Earlier reports had suggested that the Sussexes had sought a plane from the German Army for their trip to Dusseldorf. However, due to disagreements with the British royal family, the German government firmly declined this request.
Amidst rumors of a rift, the couple recently posted a video announcing the recipients of their new Safer Technology Grant. Meghan Markle, who has had her fair share of controversies in the past, is now facing accusations of making unusual demands for the Invictus Games.
Meghan previously participated alongside Prince Harry in the 2017 Invictus Games, and in the upcoming 2023 Games, she will host a segment celebrating the bravery and resilience of participants, as well as service members from around the world.
This segment, named "Life Stories Scene," is scheduled for the closing ceremony in September. However, some of the demands attributed to the actress have garnered media attention. According to a report from Heat news, Meghan Markle is said to have requested Jennifer Lopez and Cher to perform at the event. She has also reportedly specified preferences for her food, clothing, and even the ambient temperature.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were transported to Dusseldorf on a government plane funded by German taxpayers. The couple visited the city to assess venues for the upcoming Invictus Games and Prince Harry's sports tournament for wounded soldiers and veterans, scheduled to take place in Dusseldorf. They were flown from RAF Northolt and used one of the German Air Force's Bombardier Global 5000 Jets, typically reserved for Germany's political leaders. These jets, often referred to as the "Bugatti of the air" due to their speed, were acquired by Germany to replace their unreliable Challenger Jets over a decade ago, with each costing around £40 million.
Harry and Meghan returned to Northolt on the same plane. The exact cost of the two flights to the German public purse remains unclear, but the Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, indicated their willingness to assist with the journey, as they are involved in organizing the Invictus Games. Although the British royal family enjoys significant popularity in Germany, Meghan doesn't always receive the same level of approval from the country's newspapers.
Both Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to participate in events at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany. The Times of London reports that Harry will deliver a speech at the closing ceremony on September 16th, while Meghan will host a segment highlighting the courage and resilience of service members. This event follows the release of Harry's upcoming documentary on the Invictus Games, set to premiere on August 30th. In the documentary trailer, Harry, who serves as an executive producer, emphasizes that the games focus on recovery and reintegration into the community rather than the cause of the injury.