A royal expert has spoken about Zara and Mike Tindall’s trip to Australia this month with touching PDA moments as they enjoy their ‘best of both worlds’ royal status
Zara and Mike Tindall are key figures in the Royal Family, known for their modern and relatable approach. Whether it’s during a formal royal engagement or a family day at the races, the couple never shy away from showing their down-to-earth nature and clear love for each other.
This month, Zara and Mike were all smiles as they lovingly wrapped their arms around each other during their annual trip to Australia – where their romance first sparked. The Olympic equestrian, 43, and England’s former rugby star, 46, have been an item for over two decades, having met in Australia in 2003 while Zara was on her gap year and Mike was participating in the Rugby World Cup.
Their love story flourished, and three months after Prince William and Kate Middleton’s high-profile wedding in 2011, they said their vows in a more private ceremony at Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh, Scotland, on June 30. They’ve since welcomed three children, Mia, 10, Lena, six, and Lucas, three, and the family of five live in Gloucestershire on the expansive grounds of Gatcombe Park estate.
Taking some time away from their adorable brood, Zara and Mike attended key 2025 Magic Millions events on Australia’s Gold Coast this month, where they put on a loved-up display. The royal pair have often expressed their affection for the country and have even teased about relocating Down Under one day.
Zara, an ambassador for the event, was spotted in white polo trousers, a red Magic Millions top, and a white baseball cap as she participated in the Barrier Draw for one of the events. Her husband, sporting a floral blue shirt and beige shorts, interviewed her and declared that there was “only one winner” – believed to be a sweet tribute to his wife of 13 years.
Speaking about their relationship, former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror, “Zara really is a remarkably beautiful woman, no wonder Mike always looks so proud and happy. But the feeling is mutual: she oozes love for her big bear of a rugby star husband, with his crooked nose and rugged appeal. I think we all enjoy seeing them out and about together, usually arm in arm or having a cuddle – living life to the full.”
At the annual event, which they have attended since 2013, except during the Covid pandemic, they were also joined by Prince Harry’s polo friend Nacho Figueras and his wife, Delfina Blaquier. Discussing Zara and Mike’s role within the monarchy, Jennie said, “Although they don’t have titles, they obviously have the cachet of being so much part of the extended Royal Family. And somehow, they have managed to use that commercially without getting into too much bother.
“At the moment, they have the very best of both worlds, and I don’t think they’d want to change that for a minute. But I’m sure they’d help out where and if asked, for example, at garden parties or similar engagements. They are both very close to William, and if he calls on them again (as he did at a recent garden party), they will definitely agree.”
Jennie adds a crucial point about their role: “But not to an official working role, nor do I think the public would want to fund any more working royals.”