An official announcement has been made that the Invictus Games, a veterans sports tournament initiated by Prince Harry that has garnered international acclaim, will make a comeback to Britain in 2027, with Birmingham chosen as the host city for its eighth edition.
The inaugural games took place in London in 2014, and while the support for this initiative has grown, Prince Harry may find that his personal support network has diminished since then.
During the 2014 games, Prince Harry not only had the backing of his brother, Prince William, but also his father and stepmother, King Charles and Queen Camilla at the time (as the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall).
“Prince Harry’s selection of Britain over America for the 2027 Invictus Games feels like a significant decision since much of the focus has been on his strong commitment to his new life in the United States,” remarked Royston.
Royston explained the deliberation behind the choice of Birmingham for 2027 over Washington, D.C., highlighting the potential to attract prominent figures from the American political realm in Harry’s adopted home, or returning to Britain where Meghan Markle first visited in March 2018, shortly before their wedding.
Royston suggested that opting for Britain could pose personal challenges for Harry and Meghan, who have collectively attended various Invictus Games since 2017.
“Choosing Britain means potentially facing the British press, which has often been critical of them,” Royston noted, emphasizing the main concern – speculation around the attendance (or invitation) of any of Harry’s family members to support him.
“It opens up discussions on whether royals should participate in the event and the perceived implications when certain family members might choose not to attend,” he remarked. “While it’s unlikely that William and Kate will be present, I am uncertain about Charles and Camilla’s potential attendance. Eugenie might show up, but that’s also uncertain.”
Royston speculated that the palace’s stance may lean towards maintaining a formal distance from Harry’s post-working royal activities to prevent any commercial exploitation of their association.
“However, it does come across as somewhat detached,” he added. “Personally, I would love to see Charles proudly watching his son perform his duties, supporting veterans in need and advocating for their cause.”