Prince Harry issues statement on Invictus Games drastic change

Prince Harry has issued a statement due to a major change to the Invictus Games. The Duke of Sussex has publicly thanked Invictus Games Foundation chief executive Dominic Reid for his “relentless” leadership, dedication and service as the charity’s boss announced he was stepping down.

Harry founded Invictus in 2014 and said he was “immensely grateful” to Dominic for turning the Paralympic-style sporting competition for wounded, injured and ill servicemen and veterans into a global movement, reports The Mirror. He praised Dominic’s efforts and spoke of the journey they have built together for the Games.

Harry wrote in a statement: “I am extremely grateful to my friend Dominic, whose dedication and leadership have transformed the Invictus Games from an ambitious idea into an internationally recognized movement.

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“His tireless efforts over the past decade have supported thousands of wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans through sports rehabilitation, helping to demonstrate their unparalleled strength and contribution to society.”

He added: “Thank you, Dominic, for a decade of tireless service to the Invictus Games Foundation. What a journey it has been and how lucky we are to work with such an incredible community of people. We pray we don’t need the Games for another 10 years, but thanks to you, the team and our future CEO, we will be ready.”

Announcing his departure, Dominic said it was “time for someone new to take this vital movement forward into its second vigorous decade”. He said the search for his successor will be an important one and he looks forward to passing on the baton and continuing to support the foundation, adding: “Once you’re a member of the Invictus family, you never leave.”

Harry stepped down from royal duties in 2020 for a new life in America, but returned to the UK in May to celebrate Invictus’ 10th anniversary with a special service at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Former soldier Mr Reid said: “We have delivered the 10-year vision I set out, which includes the introduction of winter sports, which is close to my heart as a former biathlete. I remain the Lord Mayor’s Showmanship and look forward to the exciting new projects I develop.”

Harry, who served on the front lines in Afghanistan, was inspired to organize the global tour after attending the Warrior Games in Colorado in 2013 and seeing how wounded US military personnel thrived on the challenge of participating in competitive sports that gave them – they helped the recovery.

The Duke went on to stage the inaugural Games at London’s Olympic Park in 2014, and the tournament has since been held across the globe in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, The Hague and Dusseldorf, with the first Hybrid Winter Games being hosted in Vancouver and Whistler in 2025.

Preparations are underway to announce the host city for the 2027 Games, with Birmingham and Washington DC up against each other on the shortlist. Mr Reid described it as a “privilege to work closely” with Harry. He added: “His concept, passion and drive have been instrumental in our success, particularly with the focus on mental health in sports rehabilitation.”

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