British equestrian Laura Collett has opened up about her experiences with Princess Anne and her daughter Zara Tindall on the equestrian circuit. Collett, 36, recalled a particularly memorable moment with the Princess Royal when Anne presented her with an MBE in 2022.
A Surreal Encounter with Princess Anne
Collett described the encounter as 'surreal,' noting that Anne began chatting with her like a familiar face. 'It was nice because we have something in common,' Collett said in an interview with Hello! magazine. Anne, who competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics, is a fellow equestrian enthusiast.
Zara Tindall: Down-to-Earth Royal
Collett also spoke highly of Zara Tindall, with whom she has shared teams and competed. 'She's so normal, we forget she's a royal... she's so lovely,' Collett remarked. Zara, married to former rugby star Mike Tindall, recently opened up about family life, saying, 'Every day there is a different dilemma or problem, but it is incredible.' She emphasized the importance of instilling values like hard work and respect in their three children.
Princess Anne's Popularity and Role
Princess Anne was recently ranked third in a 2026 poll measuring royal popularity, thanks to her 'no-fuss' approach and dry wit. She is often described as the hardest-working royal, completing hundreds of engagements annually. A royal aide noted that Anne is King Charles's most trusted confidante, capable of delivering uncomfortable truths.
