Invictus is compassion, respect and the power of the human spirit, says Harry
Prince Harry has returned to the UK to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his Invictus Games - which he said represent the "unyielding belief in the power of the human spirit".
The international sporting event, founded by the Duke of Sussex in 2014, is set to have a special service of thanksgiving in St Paul's Cathedral in London on Wednesday.
Harry paid tribute to the Invictus Games family's "commitment, enthusiasm and belief" during a one-day summit called the Invictus Games Foundation Conversation, which was held at the headquarters of the Honourable Artillery Company.
The Duke of Sussex joined the Invictus conference to look back over the past decade.
In the foreword for the summit, Prince Harry said: "It has been an honour to watch the Invictus Games Foundation grow over the years.
"What began as a vision to pay tribute to the courage and resilience of wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans, has flourished into an international organisation built on hope, strength and unity."
The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event that took its inspiration from the 2013 Warrior Games.
The adaptive event is aimed at wounded, injured or sick Armed Forces personnel and veterans, and it takes its name from the Latin word 'Invictus', meaning 'unconquered' or 'undefeated'.
Next year, Vancouver and Whistler will host the seventh instalment of the games, which includes new winter sports for the first time.
Prince Harry said: "As we look ahead to the first winter hybrid Games at Vancouver Whistler 2025 next year, we are eager to celebrate the Invictus Spirit once again – exemplified in every single competitor, staff, friend and family member.
"Your commitment, enthusiasm and belief have been the driving force behind our continued success."
The Duke of Sussex added: "Together, we have created a legacy that transcends sports; a community that embraces compassion, respect and the unyielding belief in the power of the human spirit.
"As we celebrate this milestone, let us recommit to the Invictus mission."
Birmingham has been shortlisted to host the Invictus Games in 2027.
In March, the city launched a £26m bid to host the multi-sport event aimed at wounded, injured or sick Armed Forces personnel and veterans.
After a detailed process which was launched last year, Birmingham now faces competition from Washington DC in the United States to be the host – with a final decision by the board of trustees being made by the end of July.
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