Prince Harry conducting a series of events alone to promote the Invictus Winter Games 2025 is a “smart move”, according to a leading PR expert.
In the latest series of released promotions, Prince Harry filmed a comedic skit alongside rapper, Jelly Roll, where he was pictured nervously about to receive his first-ever tattoo – which turned out to be a prank in order to put the spotlight on the upcoming games.
A hilarious video released on November 19 by the Invictus Games showed the Duke of Sussex squirming on the chair after giving in and accepting he’d get a tattoo in exchange for the rapper’s attendance at the upcoming Games.
A PR expert has commented on Prince Harry deciding to promote his beloved tournament alone. In an honest comment, focusing on Harry’s good intentions, PR expert and founder of No Strings Public Relations, Riley Gardiner, said: “It’s a smart move for Prince Harry to promote the Invictus Games on his own this year – it means the spotlight can stay on the games and away from every little thing Meghan does. He’s showing respect for the athletes and the cause without any distractions.”
The video was been posted by the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistle 2025 social media account, stating Jelly Roll and Prince Harry are to “reunite” at the Invictus Games closing ceremony on February 16.
It comes after Harry spent two days in Canada where he also launched the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler school programme at the Seaforth Armoury.
Harry delivered a heartfelt speech onstage and surprised the children with tickets to attend the opening ceremony next year. The tournament will take place between 8 and 16 February.
The PR expert said: “With the launch of the school programme, Harry is helping teach kids about heroism and resilience. He’s fostering empathy and understanding from a young age like the charitable work his mum championed.”
On Sunday night, the Duke also surprised sports fans as he attended the Grey Cup ahead of the Toronto Argonauts’ clash with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Despite no longer being a working royal, Prince Harry has always aimed to make the Invictus Games one of his number one priorities. After spending 10 years in the military, Harry made the decision to use his own personal experience to create an event for others who have served, but adapting it in a way to suit wounded, injured or sick armed personnel.
Riley also spoke about Harry’s promotional activities in Canada. He said: “Every move is clearly highly coordinated, but his surprise Grey Cup visit makes him look spontaneous and passionate.”
He added: “I think his confidence comes across as real, which is key to winning back trust and restoring his image after some tough moments. It feels like a well-thought-out brand launch mixing meaningful engagements with unexpected public appearances.”
Since the inaugural Invictus Games in London in 2014, the event has been held in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, the Hague and Dusseldorf.
In July 2027, it will be hosted in Birmingham, marking its first return to the UK.
The Duchess of Sussex did not join her husband in Canada and remained in Montecito, California with their two children, Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.
