In a touching and emotional throwback to Prince Harry’s winter Invictus Games held in Vancouver earlier this year, the foundation has shared a tribute video on Instagram. In the video, which shows veterans and competitors from various different sporting fields, Prince Harry can be heard saying: “We gather here in Vancouver in a spirit of unity. Show the world your fearlessness, show the world the grandeur in your attempt at victory.
“Show the world why you are Invictus. a spirit of fortitude and perseverance that can never be defeated. That is the magic of the Invictus Games.”
The caption of the video uploaded by the Invictus Games foundation read: “A Lasting Legacy, a Substantial Economic Impact and Hundreds of Lives Saved! The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 officially closes and the final report has been released showcasing the inspiration of the competitors and their supporters, $5.5M Legacy Fund, $63.2M balanced budget, $81.1M in Economic Impact in Canada, and a slew of historic firsts for the Invictus Games.”
From February 8-16, 534 Invictus Games competitors, wounded, injured and sick serving members and veterans from 23 nations, showcased their resilience, determination and camaraderie through 11 adaptive sport competitions in Vancouver and Whistler in a celebration of strength, recovery and inclusion.
In the press release, issued today, Prince Harry is quoted: “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in making these extraordinary Games possible, most of all the Four Host First Nations who welcomed us into their land. To the tens of thousands who packed the stands, I thank you for creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our competitors and their families.
“To everyone who gave it their all for their country and the Invictus Games, thank you and I salute you. From start to finish, there was a special kind of hospitality and energy about these Games and Canada absolutely delivered once again.”
Prince Harry attended the Invictus Games alongside his wife, Meghan Markle, for the first-ever winter edition.
Rob Owen, CEO, Invictus Games Foundation, said: “To be able to witness the Invictus Games up close for the first time, I was struck by the scale and ambition of these Games, the Winter sports, and the international community in attendance. With its impact and legacy, the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 raised the bar, brought a nation together, and truly delivered.”
Through the power of sport, the Games inspired recovery, support rehabilitation, and generated a wider understanding and respect for those who have served their country.
The Invictus Games were founded by Prince Harry. Inspiration for the Invictus Games came from Prince Harry’s 2013 visit to the Warrior Games in the United States, where he witnessed the ability of sport to help both psychologically and physically.