Prince Harry's apparent criticism of Donald Trump during his Invictus Games opening ceremony speech has drawn sharp rebuke from event insiders, who claim it has become an unwelcome distraction from the Games' core purpose.
The Duke of Sussex's remarks about "weak moral character in the world" at the Vancouver ceremony have sparked controversy, coming shortly after Trump dismissed calls for Harry's deportation and called Meghan "terrible".
A senior Invictus Games volunteer told the Mail the speech was a "woke" distraction that would not be welcomed by wounded, injured, and sick military personnel at the event.
The criticism highlights growing tensions over the royal couple's prominence at the Games, which were founded to support and encourage wounded military personnel.
Invictus Games insiders reject Prince Harry's 'woke agenda' in clear message
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"While we remain committed to supporting the veterans and their families, there is growing frustration over how Harry and Meghan have dominated the narrative," an insider revealed.
The volunteer, who has been involved in organising the Vancouver and Whistler event since 2022, was particularly critical of the couple's approach.
"Public sentiment, especially among veterans, reflects this frustration—most do not respect how they continuously insert themselves into the spotlight", they said.
Another source emphasised that veterans reject the couple's stance, stating: "Unlike them, veterans and their families do not see themselves as victims. Their 'woke' agenda dies with veterans.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pictured at the Games in Canada
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"They have become a distraction, overshadowing the veterans who should be at the centre of it all.
"This event should be about the veterans, not royal spectacle."
Harry's speech praised veterans' "courage, values and humanity" whilst noting there was "no shortage of crises, no absence of uncertainty, no lack of weak moral character in the world."
The remarks came after Donald Trump had dismissed calls for Harry's deportation amid controversy over the Duke's historical drug use admissions.
Prince Harry seemed to take a swipe at Trump during the Opening Ceremony
PA
"I don't want to do that," Trump told the New York Post. "I'll leave him alone. He's got enough problems with his wife. She's terrible."
Trump has previously been critical of Meghan, who had branded him "divisive and misogynistic" in a 2016 interview.
The former president has stated he is "not a fan" of Meghan, claiming that "Harry is whipped" and "is being led around by his nose."
Harry founded the Invictus Games with support from King Charles and Prince William to support wounded military personnel.
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The Duke and Duchess's presence at the Vancouver Games has been marked by public displays of affection, with Meghan resting her head on Harry's shoulder during the opening ceremony.
"While you can understand it, he must be upset, it is a shame that Harry chose to say what he did, when he did," another insider noted.
The couple have maintained a high profile throughout the event, attending ice hockey matches and dining with Canadian singer Michael Buble.
At a private event, Meghan met with around 40 children of Games participants, reading them "All Are Neighbours" and offering encouragement.
The controversy continues to overshadow what insiders stress should be the Games' primary focus: celebrating and supporting wounded veterans.
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