Prince Harry appeared via video link at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Invictus Germany Sports Festival in Düsseldorf yesterday morning, delivering a message to competitors representing 11 nations.
The 41-year-old, who established the original Invictus Games in 2014 to support military personnel and veterans during his time as a British Army captain, addressed attendees in footage shared on the Invictus Games Instagram Stories.
"It is an honour to be sending this message as you all gather in Düsseldorf for another Invictus sporting title," Harry said, commending Germany for "setting a powerful example of what it means to honour service with dignity and enduring commitment."
Prince Harry marked the occasion as the second Invictus Germany Sports Festival, highlighting how the event was already influencing preparations for the inaugural Invictus Australia Sports Festival scheduled for later this year.
The duke expressed his appreciation to the current and former military personnel competing at the tournament, emphasising themes of togetherness and solidarity.
"Thank you for your service, for your example, and for showing what it means to move forward together," he stated. "Have a fantastic time in Düsseldorf, lean on each other when you need to and celebrate everything you've achieved. And most importantly, make sure you have fun."
Harry's video appearance came on the same day that senior members of the Royal Family gathered in London for Trooping the Colour, King Charles's official birthday parade.
The Princess of Wales joined Prince William and their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – for the annual ceremony, which traditionally concludes with the royals appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Later on Saturday, Prince Harry unexpectedly turned up at the NBA Finals in San Antonio, witnessing the New York Knicks secure their first championship in over five decades.
The 41-year-old duke was present for game five of the series against the San Antonio Spurs, which concluded with a 94-90 victory for the Knicks.
Harry was accompanied by JP Lane, a US Army veteran who has received the Purple Heart.
The pair were seated just rows from the court, positioned next to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
The duke had already been in Texas ahead of the Warrior Games, a competition for military personnel who have sustained injuries or illness, which is run by the US Government.
Several high-profile figures were also in attendance for the historic match, with Euphoria actress Sydney Sweeney spotted alongside her boyfriend Scooter Braun, while actors Timothee Chalamet and Ben Stiller were among the famous faces courtside.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, did not join her husband at the game, nor did the couple's children.
Since relocating to the United States in 2020, Harry and Meghan have frequently been seen at major sporting occasions, including an NBA All-Star Game earlier this year in February.
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