Prince Harry’s Invictus Games Attracts Interest from Countries to Host 2029 Event
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The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, has unveiled the potential host cities for its 2029 event, showcasing a diverse range of contenders. With the upcoming 2027 Games scheduled for Birmingham, England, the organization has received Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from six cities across four continents to host the prestigious event. The shortlisted cities include Aalborg, Denmark; Veneto Region, Italy; Abuja, Nigeria; Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; Kyiv, Ukraine; and San Diego, United States of America.
Rob Owen OBE, CEO of the Invictus Games Foundation, expressed his excitement over the overwhelming interest from these cities, highlighting the significant impact hosting the games can have on participants and spectators alike. He emphasised the global recognition of the Invictus Movement and its ability to bring communities together in support of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.
One notable contender for the 2029 Games is San Diego, California, which holds personal significance for Prince Harry as it is in close proximity to his residence in Montecito. If chosen as the host city, San Diego would not only provide a convenient location for the Duke of Sussex but also contribute to the region’s rich sporting legacy, especially with Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.
Abuja, Nigeria, stands out as a potential host city with the groundbreaking of the Armed Forces Invictus Centre, signalling the country’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and transforming perceptions of disability within Africa. General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, emphasised the transformative power of hosting the Invictus Games in Abuja, aiming to create a platform for positive change and empowerment.
The prospect of hosting the first-ever Invictus event in Asia has also emerged with Daejeon, Republic of Korea, throwing its hat in the ring. The city’s strong heritage of honouring veterans and its commitment to resilience make it a compelling choice to spread the Invictus Spirit across Asia and beyond, according to Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Kang Jung-ai.
In addition to these frontrunners, Aalborg, Denmark, the Veneto Region of Italy, and Kyiv, Ukraine, complete the list of potential host cities for the 2029 Invictus Games. Despite challenges faced by Kyiv due to ongoing conflicts, the city’s compelling EOI highlights the importance of sports in veterans’ healthcare and underscores Ukraine’s dedication to supporting its military community.
As Prince Harry reflects on the evolution of the Invictus Games over the past decade, he acknowledges the continued need for such events to support and honour service members and veterans. With the Games returning to the U.K. in 2027, Harry remains committed to the mission of the Invictus Movement and its role in fostering resilience and camaraderie among participants.
The enduring success of the Invictus Games underscores the dedication and passion of individuals worldwide who recognise the value of creating a platform for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel to compete and share their stories of triumph and resilience. The upcoming selection of the 2029 host city promises to expand the reach of the Invictus Movement and inspire communities around the world to unite in support of our brave service members.