Prince Harry announces Invictus Games will return to the UK in new statement

Despite stepping down from the monarchy in 2020, Prince Harry has continued his work with the sporting competition for veterans.

The first Invictus Games were held in London in 2014 and the Duke of Sussex hosted an anniversary event to mark the occasion earlier this year at St Paul's Cathedral.

No members of the Royal Family attended the anniversary event in May but the Invictus Games taking place in Birmingham could see UK based royals attending the competition.

Birmingham was chosen over DC Washington on the final two destination shortlist in a choice between the UK or US as the hosting nation.

Prince Harry said in a statement regarding the decision: "Congratulations to Birmingham, UK, on winning the bid to host the Invictus Games 2027.

"Your city’s strong ties to the Armed Forces community made it a formidable contender from the very start.

"Over the years, we’ve seen each city bring a unique spirit and vision to life for competitors, their families, and spectators.

"We have no doubt the people of Birmingham will join in celebrating the unwavering respect and admiration we have for our veteran and service community, showing the world how their courage ignites hope and unites us all—something your city knows well.

"As part of the announcement by the Invictus Games Foundation, a flag raising ceremony attended by the newly appointed Minister for Veterans and People, the Rt Hon Al Carns OBE MC will be held on the morning of the 23rd July at the NEC, the site of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.

"This will be followed by a demonstration of some of the new sports from the Games, Pickleball and Laser Run, with former competitors from the Invictus Games."

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The 2023 edition of the Invictus Games took place in Düsseldorf, Germany and was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

The next Invictus Games will be held in Vancouver in 2025 before the event takes place in Birmingham in 2027.

Helen Helliwell, CEO of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, said regarding their successful bid: "I am honoured our bid has been selected, bringing the Invictus Games back to the UK.

"At NEC Birmingham, we’ll host the most cohesive, sustainable event in Invictus Games history with all sports, ceremonies, and accommodation on one fantastic site.

"Beyond the Games, our legacy programs will benefit communities nationwide, from adaptive sports to arts and employment."