Prince Harry and Meghan Shine at Historic Invictus Games Winter Welcome in Whistler

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a warm and spirited appearance at the Invictus Games welcome ceremony in Whistler, B.C., despite the frigid temperatures. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex joined athletes and supporters, with Prince Harry noting the overwhelming turnout from the Whistler community.

The 2025 Invictus Games mark a historic milestone as the first to include winter adaptive sports such as alpine and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, biathlon, and skeleton. Addressing the crowd, Harry encouraged competitors—wounded, injured, and sick military veterans and service personnel—to embrace the experience while participating in what he humorously called “measured risk.” He also playfully engaged with Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton, referring to him as his “ginger friend,” before calling on others in the crowd with red hair to join in the fun.

Canadian singer Michael Bublé introduced the prince, hailing the competitors as “real superheroes.” The welcome event, held in Whistler Village, took place under an Arctic outflow warning, with temperatures feeling as cold as -20°C. Harry and Meghan braved the elements, with the prince donning a black coat with the Invictus Games logo and Meghan wrapped in a long white jacket and winter boots.

The Games officially opened in Vancouver on Saturday with a star-studded ceremony featuring musical performances by Katy Perry, Chris Martin, and Nelly Furtado. Many of the Whistler events are being held at venues used during the 2010 Winter Olympics, including the Whistler Sliding Centre, where Harry and Meghan later attended the skeleton final.

During their visit, Harry—who previously tested the icy track, reaching speeds of 99 km/h—charmed attendees by posing for photos with the UK team and even playfully kissing a bald competitor’s head. The 2025 Invictus Games will continue until February 16, concluding with a closing ceremony at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena.

Source: The Canadian Press