Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has received a devastating blow as he readies himself to return to the UK for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, an event he co-founded to honor wounded, injured, or sick veterans and armed forces personnel.
The former royal, eager to celebrate the achievements and spirit of the Invictus Games community, was shocked to learn that he has been stripped of his role as patron, with Mike Tyndall, a former rugby player and Paralympian married to Zara Phillips, set to take over.
This decision, sanctioned by Invictus Games CEO Scott Moore, has left Harry in disbelief and incensed, sparking widespread controversy and backlash among fans and participants of the Games.
Having stepped back from his royal duties to relocate to the US with his wife Meghan Markle and son Archie in 2020, Harry has always held a deep passion for the Invictus Games, which he established in 2014 inspired by the US Warrior Games.
The Games, hosted in various countries including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, have garnered immense success, drawing in numerous competitors and spectators while gaining support from notable figures in the realms of celebrity and politics.
Throughout the years, Harry has been the face of the Games, attending each edition alongside Meghan and other family members, showcasing his unwavering dedication.
However, Moore, who assumed the role of CEO of the Invictus Games Foundation in 2020, has raised concerns about Harry’s commitment and influence within the Games.
With a wealth of experience spanning over 40 years in sports, media, and events, Moore has expressed dissatisfaction with Harry’s decision to pursue a media career in the US, accusing him of exploiting the Games for personal and financial gain.
Moore alleges that Harry’s actions have alienated the veteran and armed forces community, tarnishing the reputation and integrity of the Games in the process.
In a surprising turn of events, Moore exercised his authority to appoint Tyndall as the new patron, citing his exemplary track record as a former England rugby captain and World Cup winner, along with his connection to the royal family through marriage to Zara Phillips.
Tyndall, a Paralympian who competed in wheelchair rugby at the 2016 Rio Games, has been hailed by Moore as a true champion and role model for the Invictus Games community.
Despite Harry’s impassioned plea to reconsider, Moore stood firm in his decision, emphasizing its finality and urging Harry to come to terms with the change.
The news of Harry’s dismissal and replacement as patron of the Games has stirred a wave of discontent among supporters and participants alike.
Many have voiced their dismay and disillusionment with Moore’s actions, feeling betrayed and abandoned by the abrupt decision.
Expressions of solidarity and sympathy towards Harry have flooded social media platforms, with pledges to boycott and protest the upcoming 10th-anniversary celebrations slated for May 2021.
The fallout from this unexpected development has cast a shadow over the future of the Invictus Games, raising questions about the direction it will take without Harry at its helm.