The Duke of Sussex graced the grand finale of the Invictus Games in Canada, showing his unwavering support for Team UK athletes throughout the inspirational event. As the founding patron of the games, Prince Harry was a prominent figure at numerous competitions during the week and was even spotted alongside Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Sunday’s indoor rowing event.

Early in the week, Harry’s cheering could be heard loud and clear as he rallied behind friends and family of Team UK during an intensely competitive wheelchair rugby match where Britain gloriously clinched a silver medal. The concluding festivities doubled up as the ceremonial baton-passing to Birmingham, the proud host for the Invictus Games in 2027.

Since its inception in 2014, the Invictus Games have been close to Harry’s heart – a global platform designed for injured, sick, and wounded service personnel to showcase their indomitable spirit through sports. In a heartfelt tribute, Prime Minister Trudeau publicly lauded the duke at the ceremony, exclaiming, “To the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, without whom these Invictus Games would never have happened,” amidst rapturous applause from the audience.

“You are the one who turned this incredible idea into a reality.”

Trudeau added: “As someone you roped in early in my time as Prime Minister, I can testify to the energy, the dedication, the commitment this man has to you and to this ideal.”

The weighty responsibility and honour were passed on as UK captains Stephen “Hoops” Hooper, Neil Thomas, and Gemma Barnes received the official flag, symbolizing the transition from Whistler and Vancouver’s tenure, paving the road to Birmingham.

Among the many memorable moments, a heartwarming proposal stood out as British army veteran James Cairns got down on one knee to propose to his girlfriend Hannah Wild amidst the thrill of the opening day’s wheelchair basketball showdown.

Over 60 British veterans made history by participating in the inaugural winter games held in Whistler and Vancouver. RAF veteran Mr Hooper shared his exhilaration, describing the week as “awesome” and reflecting on the experiences: “From proposals to PBs, we’ve enjoyed stunning scenery and made memories to last a lifetime,” he remarked.

He went on to say, “We arrived in Canada full of anticipation – we leave stronger, braver, more resilient and closer than ever to our recovery. We are proud to bring Games home to Birmingham in ‘27.”

Al Carns, Minister for Veterans and People, expressed his forward-looking perspective, saying, “Many of us, especially those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, have come back to Birmingham for treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, playing a key role in their recovery.”

He highlighted the significance of the next games for many veterans: “For them, to return to Birmingham, and to take part in the next games, will complete their journey to recovery.

“The Invictus Games is not just about courage, it’s about the continuation of service for individuals who are given the opportunity to once again serve and represent a country”.