According to royal commentator Richard Eden and frustrated veterans, Prince Harry’s time as patron of the Invictus Games has shifted from inspirational to insufferable—faster than one can say Netflix deal. Once celebrated as the champion of wounded warriors, Harry is now being accused of turning Invictus into nothing more than a glossy PR circus starring himself and Meghan Markle.
When Invictus launched in 2014, Harry had the full support of the royal family. King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine all attended the opening in London, applauding his vision. Veterans admired him, and the public cheered. But fast forward to today, and Harry is no longer a unifying figure. Instead, critics argue he has become a divisive distraction.
Veterans Accuse Harry of Exploiting Invictus
Eden’s sources claim Harry is not helping the charity but actively damaging its reputation. With the next Games scheduled in Birmingham in 2027, the criticism is growing louder. Veterans complain that instead of highlighting their service and sacrifice, the event has become a couple’s retreat for Harry and Meghan. FULL STORY
From private jets to luxury suites costing more than most people’s monthly salaries, critics argue the Sussexes treat Invictus like a red-carpet show. Meanwhile, veterans and their families struggle to cover their own expenses just to attend—without Netflix cameras following them.
“A Disgrace to the Uniform”
Some veterans have gone as far as branding Harry a disgrace, accusing him of dishonoring the oath of allegiance they once swore to the monarchy. One even compared his military service to cosplay. Critics say his greatest “battlefield achievement” today is surviving the Oprah interview without breaking down.
The “Meghan factor” only makes things worse. Many believe she has hijacked the spotlight, turning Invictus into a backdrop for her own self-promotion. Instead of honoring sacrifice, photo ops resemble Vogue-style shoots with camouflage scenery. Veterans insist the Games are being reduced to nothing more than a PDA opportunity for the couple.
Questions About Money and Transparency
The financial controversy surrounding Invictus has also sparked outrage. Canadian taxpayers reportedly spent $30 million hosting the last Games, but veterans are still questioning where the money went. Private flights, designer wardrobes, and $10,000-a-night hotel suites are being blamed for draining funds. Some are even calling for an official investigation into the spending.
Royal Allies Distance Themselves
Even Harry’s closest allies appear to be walking away. His friend JJ Chalmers has reportedly stepped back from trustee duties, fueling speculation about Harry’s weakening grip on Invictus. Insiders whisper that if Harry resigns, the charity will have no difficulty finding a replacement patron—because he is not irreplaceable.
Major Edward Forescue, a former officer, put it bluntly: “Invictus must cut ties with Harry—ruthlessly.” The veterans deserve better, and the committee knows it. If Eden’s sources are correct, Harry’s future with the Games is hanging by a thread.
Until then, the veterans he was meant to honor are no longer applauding. Instead, they’re booing.
