Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are preparing to make a special trip back to Canada in the coming weeks.
Canada holds a significant place in their hearts as it was the country where they initially resided after stepping down from their roles in the British Royal Family in 2020.
This visit to Canada will be particularly momentous as it coincides with the one-year countdown to the highly anticipated Invictus Games.
Founded by Prince Harry nearly a decade ago, the Invictus Games is a remarkable sporting event that celebrates the strength and resilience of sick and injured military personnel.
Whistler, Canada, has been chosen as the destination for this celebratory trip.
The picturesque town will host the couple as they commemorate the upcoming Invictus Games.
This will mark the first time the tournament takes place during the winter season, adding an exciting new dimension to the event.
The last edition of the Invictus Games took place in September 2022 in Düsseldorf, Germany, and proved to be a resounding success for Prince Harry and Meghan.
The Duke and Duchess were actively engaged, cheering on participants and mingling with the enthusiastic crowds.
Notably, their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, did not accompany them on this occasion, choosing instead to remain at their California home, away from the public eye.
During their time in Germany, Prince Harry and Meghan attended a reception hosted by the Canadian delegation, promoting the upcoming Invictus Games.
This upcoming edition will feature winter sports for the first time, further diversifying the range of activities available to athletes.
Canada holds a special significance for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
It was in Toronto, the country’s largest city, where Meghan lived while filming the television series Suits.
It was also in Canada where the couple made their first public appearance together, capturing the attention of the world.
Subsequently, they announced their engagement later that year.
During their stay in Canada, the young family resided in a stunning £14m home on Vancouver Island in North Saanich, British Columbia.
The Canadian and British Columbia governments have committed a substantial sum of nearly £20m to ensure the successful execution of the Invictus Games in February 2025.
Additionally, local indigenous communities are actively involved in the planning process as part of a spirit of truth and reconciliation.
The Duke of Sussex expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, stating that it will provide a global platform to expand the scope and format of winter adaptive sports.