Harry and Meghan Take Center Stage at Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in Vancouver

Prince Harry emphasizes unity and resilience at the heart of this year’s Invictus Games celebrating military veterans in Canada.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex joyfully embraced the spotlight at the Invictus Games opening ceremony held in Vancouver, Canada. Prince Harry delivered an inspiring address, urging competitors to rise above “moments of difficulty and division” within the world while acknowledging the unique journey of each veteran. The couple, who were seen waving blue pom-poms, enthusiastically cheered on the UK team as they paraded into the stadium.

This year marks the seventh edition of the Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014 to support wounded military veterans. During his speech to the audience of approximately 40,000, he proclaimed, “We gather here in Vancouver in a spirit of unity,” emphasizing the power of mutual respect amongst the diverse competitors.

The opening ceremony featured captivating performances from renowned artists including Katy Perry, Coldplay's Chris Martin, and Canadian sensation Nelly Furtado, who each contributed to the celebratory atmosphere. Notably, Chris Martin performed the Invictus Anthem, a song he created for the event, while Perry brought the ceremony to a close with her energetic hits.

The day was also marked by political undertones, as US President Donald Trump commented on Prince Harry amid ongoing discussions about his immigration status. Trump noted that he would not pursue deportation for the prince, despite speculations regarding his visa application following past drug admissions. The president's remarks included a critique of Meghan Markle, which aligns with the couple's history of public disagreements with Trump.

Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games following inspiration from the 2013 Warrior Games, aiming to recognize and honor the courage of injured veterans. Over the next few days, more than 500 athletes will compete in various sports, including winter events for the first time in history. The couple continues to hold an important role in championing veterans, advocating for wellness and camaraderie among those who have faced significant challenges in service to their countries.