Michael Bublé calls Invictus athletes real superheroes in emotional tribute

The Invictus Games took a star-studded turn as Michael Bublé made a surprise appearance at Whistler, delivering an emotional tribute to the veterans competing in the event.

The Canadian singer, who took to the stage at the pop-up Invictus Village, called the competitors "real superheroes" and spoke of his deep admiration for the military community.

"I have to tell you, you're my family. You're my people," he said. " And I can't tell you how proud I am, how proud I am by how you represent us."

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Bublé has long expressed his support for service personnel. Speaking to BFBS Radio, he revealed that every time he performs his hit song Home, he dedicates it to servicemen and women.

"You know, every night, wherever I am, and I mean anywhere in the world, you can find it on record. When I sing the song 'Home' that I wrote, every single night I dedicate it to the servicemen and servicewomen who are a hell of a lot braver than me," he said.

He also praised Prince Harry and Meghan for their work in organising the Invictus Games, saying: "I know how hard Harry and Meghan work at it. I know it's a lot, and I love that I can be part of it."

Before introducing the Duke of Sussex to the stage, Bublé reflected on the significance of the games returning to Canada a decade after they were first launched.

"This is the second time we've had the honour of hosting in this beautiful, beautiful sovereign country of Canada," he said.

Comparing the Invictus competitors to his children's favourite fictional heroes, he said: "I talk to my kids about Spider-Man and Batman, and I love those movies. I love those comic books.

"But tonight we're surrounded by athletes who are real superheroes, real superheroes. It's humbling and it's an honour for me to tell you that."  

His speech was met with cheers before he welcomed Prince Harry to the stage, saying "without the incredible effort of this young man, none of this would happen"."

The Invictus Games, co-founded by Prince Harry in 2014, is an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.

This year's edition, held in Vancouver and Whistler, marks the first time winter sports have been included in the programme.