Prince Harry, known for his role as the founder and Patron of the Invictus Games, faces a significant setback as over 700 veterans withdraw from participating in the organization's 10th-anniversary celebrations. Established in 2014 by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games have provided a platform for wounded veterans to compete in various sporting events, aiding in their physical and mental recovery through the power of sport. The upcoming anniversary event, scheduled for November in London, was intended to bring together competitors from past games to celebrate the impact and success of the Invictus Games over the last decade.
However, news of the event has sparked backlash among some British veterans, with over 700 former competitors resigning from attending. These veterans express ongoing frustrations with Prince Harry, particularly regarding his controversial decisions since stepping back from his royal duties.
Many veterans feel that Prince Harry has distanced himself from the military community in Britain. They cite his criticism of the government's handling of PTSD among veterans as being out of touch, especially considering his own military background. Additionally, some veterans are upset by Harry's comments about feeling unsafe returning to the UK with his family, as well as his recent business ventures, such as his memoir and Netflix docuseries deals, which they perceive as prioritizing financial gain over supporting the military.
This mass resignation is seen as a significant blow to Prince Harry and the Invictus Games organization. As one of his premier patronages, the success of the Invictus Games has been viewed as a testament to Harry's commitment to supporting wounded veterans. However, the mass resignations raise serious questions about Harry's ongoing affiliation with the organization and whether he has lost touch with the military community he once strongly supported.
A spokesperson for Prince Harry expressed his deep sadness at the resignations, stating that the competitors of the Invictus Games will always be the organization's inspiration and priority. Nevertheless, the mass resignations represent a major challenge for Prince Harry and the Invictus Games organizers, casting doubt on the future of the organization and its continued support within the British military community.
