Prince Harry is enjoying a moment of triumph following the release of a new report highlighting the economic and social impact of the Invictus Games 2025, which were held earlier this year in British Columbia, Canada.
Despite recent public criticism surrounding a resurfaced personal video of Harry and Meghan Markle, this week brought welcome news for the Duke of Sussex—and a reminder of the meaningful work he continues to support through the Games.
A Boost for Canada: Economic and Social Wins
The Invictus Games 2025 were not only a display of international resilience and athleticism but also proved to be a major economic success.
According to the official report released on June 9, the event generated over $86 million CAD (around £63 million) in economic activity across British Columbia—$81.3 million CAD of which came from the Vancouver area alone.
More than 125,000 people attended the Games in person, while an estimated 900,000 Canadians tuned in on television. These figures highlight the growing influence and visibility of the Invictus movement within North America.
A Lasting Legacy: Funding for Veterans’ Rehabilitation
Perhaps even more significant than the numbers is the $5.5 million CAD legacy fund established to continue supporting injured, sick, and wounded service members and veterans.
This fund will be managed by the True Patriot Love Foundation in Canada alongside the Invictus Games Foundation internationally, aiming to ensure that the impact of the Games extends far beyond the competition itself.
Scott Moore, CEO of Vancouver Whistler 2025, reflected on the broader significance of the event:
“Our Games not only changed lives, they saved them… The legacy is an enduring contribution to military communities and their recovery journeys.”
Prince Harry Responds with Gratitude
In response to the report, Prince Harry issued a heartfelt message thanking everyone involved, especially the Four Host First Nations of Canada for their hospitality.
“To the tens of thousands who packed the stands, thank you for creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our competitors and their families,” he said.
“Canada absolutely delivered once again.”
How the Invictus Games Began
Prince Harry first envisioned the Invictus Games after attending the U.S. Department of Defense’s Warrior Games in 2013. Inspired by the therapeutic power of sport, particularly for injured military personnel, he wanted to bring a similar competition to the UK—and then to the world.
“There just wasn’t enough being done,” Harry once explained.
“So I borrowed the idea from the Americans and made it bigger and better.”
The first Games took place in London in 2014 and have since expanded globally, being hosted in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, The Hague, Dusseldorf, and most recently, Vancouver. The 2027 edition is already planned for Birmingham, UK.
A Win for Recovery and Recognition
The latest report is a testament not only to the organizational success of the Games but also to their deeper mission: healing through sport, community, and international cooperation.
With sustained momentum and public support, the Invictus Games continue to offer purpose and visibility to those who have served—and sacrificed—for their countries.