Seeking a Grander Role, Tuscan

By GIA PAIANIGLIANI

ROME — When Her Majesty calls, the commoners hasten? Not necessarily.

Especially if the commoners in question are the proud representatives of the Palio, the famed horse race in Tuscany, who have said they will join the festivities planned in May for the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II.

Invited to join others in an equestrian showcase, the Palio commoners had made special requests to maintain the "prestige and decorum" of the event in "mutual satisfaction," they said. Those could not be fulfilled, however.

"Mostly for organizational, but also ethical issues, the conditions

BEN STANSALL/AFP — GETTY IMAGES

Queen Elizabeth II last year. She will turn 90 in April.

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