Following successful cycles in London 2014, Orlando 2016, Toronto 2017, and Sydney 2018, the Invictus Games had faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing the event to 2022 and now to 2025. Notably, the 2025 competition in Canada marks the first time the Invictus Games return to a previous host country. Vancouver Whistler's edition will also be the inaugural inclusion of winter adaptive sports, alongside some of the core sports from previous Invictus Games.
The announcement was accompanied by two new images of Meghan and Harry at the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany, captured by close friend Misan Harman. One photograph, in black and white, depicts the couple walking arm in arm at the sitting volleyball finals, while the other shows Harry embracing a competitor, with Meghan standing behind, watching her husband.
However, the positive announcement was overshadowed by controversy. An insider reveals that despite Invictus Games facing financial challenges, Meghan and Harry plan to fly on a private jet and have requested the foundation to cover their expenses, including food, accommodation, clothes, hair and makeup, transportation, and possible security. This move has sparked anger among Canadians, with many urging people not to donate to the Invictus Foundation until ties with the royal couple are severed.
Critics argue that Meghan is treating the Invictus Games as a platform for personal publicity, diverting attention and funds away from the athletes. The source also emphasizes that the couple's extravagant demands detract from the true purpose of the foundation, which is to support veterans. Canadians are expressing their frustration, highlighting that the couple's actions are an embarrassment to Invictus, and they encourage donations to other veterans' charities instead.
In essence, Meghan's approach to the Invictus Games seems to portray it as a grand spectacle akin to the Oscars, Super Bowl, Miss USA and Universe Pageant, Rose Parade, and World Cup combined, rather than the solemn celebration of resilience and sportsmanship it was intended to be. This perception has fueled discontent among Canadians, who now question the couple's commitment to the true spirit of the Invictus Games.
