Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to arrive in Vancouver today for the 2025 Invictus Games, making the nearly three hour journey from Santa Barbara via private chartered jet.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will check into a city centre hotel ahead of the international sporting event for injured and sick military veterans.
This marks the couple’s fifth attendance at the Invictus Games together, following their previous appearances in Sydney, The Hague, and Dusseldorf, where Meghan received an enthusiastic welcome from fans.
The Games, inspired by Prince Harry, will see 500 competitors from 23 countries participate in various sporting events across Vancouver.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to arrive in Vancouver today for the 2025 Invictus Games, making the nearly three hour journey from Santa Barbara via private chartered jet.
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Workmen across Vancouver are braving sub-zero temperatures to complete final preparations for the Games, with snow clearance operations underway at key venues.
The city’s Convention Centre, which will host indoor sports including wheelchair basketball and volleyball, is being adorned with black and yellow banners featuring the Games’ slogan ‘I Am’.
Teams are clearing snow and gritting pavements around the waterfront centre and BC Place stadium, where the opening ceremony will take place.
The winter conditions present a stark contrast to the Sussexes’ California lifestyle, with temperatures barely rising above freezing and snow flurries expected throughout the week.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will check into a city centre hotel ahead of the international sporting event for injured and sick military veterans.
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Saturday’s opening ceremony at BC Place stadium promises a star-studded lineup, with Montecito neighbour Katy Perry headlining the event.
Chris Martin of Coldplay will perform the Invictus anthem, which Prince Harry commissioned him to compose specifically for the Games.
The performance will mark the first time Martin has presented the anthem to a live audience, with 40,000 spectators expected to attend.
Canadian singer Nelly Furtado, who previously performed at the 2007 Concert For Diana, will also take to the stage at Harry’s invitation.
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Prince Harry is scheduled to deliver a welcome speech to the wounded athletes and their families during the ceremony.
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Prince Harry is scheduled to deliver a welcome speech to the wounded athletes and their families during the ceremony.
The Sussexes have a special connection with Canada, having previously resided on Vancouver Island in 2020 following their departure from royal duties in what became known as ‘Megxit’.
Though the couple later relocated to Montecito, California, Prince Harry has maintained ties with Vancouver, making two separate visits to promote the 2025 Games.