Meghan Markle to Join Prince Harry at Invictus Games Closing, But Skips UK Visit for Queen’s Anniversary
Prince Harry is set to revisit his home country on the eve of the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, with no plans to be accompanied by Meghan Markle or to connect with his immediate family. Speculations had arisen that the Duchess might sidestep the entire European visit, including the Invictus Games. However, this has been refuted by close sources.
Omid Scoobie, a trusted insider of the Sussexes, confirmed, “The Duke and Duchess are excited about their presence at the Invictus Games 2023 in Düsseldorf. While Harry will be there from the onset, Meghan will join him later, with both gracing the closing event.”
Harry’s UK tour includes an appearance at a charity event in London on September 7. This function, organized by WellChild, acknowledges the grit and success of critically ill children and their families. However, insiders suggest he has no plans to interact with Prince William or the reigning King.
The atmosphere between the royal family members remains tense, as corroborated by reliable sources. The monarch’s death on September 8 of the previous year at Balmoral, Scotland, marked the end of a 70-year reign. The first anniversary will be observed privately by the King and Queen at their Balmoral residence, with Prince Andrew and his daughters expected to be in attendance.
Meghan is likely to fly directly to Germany for the Invictus Games, skipping the UK leg, as per reports. Prince Harry, a patron of WellChild for a decade and a half, has consistently been present at its yearly awards, although the Duchess, who has previously attended, might not join him this time.
Remarkably, the 2022 WellChild awards coincided with the day of the Queen’s death, resulting in the Sussexes’ withdrawal and Harry’s immediate travel to Scotland.
The upcoming 2023 Games, an event for injured military staff and veterans, is scheduled to commence in Düsseldorf, Germany, on September 9, spanning over a week. The Prince commented on the significance of WellChild, highlighting its 20-year legacy in revolutionizing healthcare for children in the UK.
During this year’s WellChild event, Harry plans to personally engage with each awardee and their kin. He will also bestow the ‘Inspirational Child’ award for the 4-6 age bracket and give an address.
Matt James, CEO of WellChild, expressed the growing number of children in the UK grappling with long-term medical complexities. He emphasized the 2023 WellChild Awards as an avenue to spotlight these challenges and applaud the incredible resilience displayed. The ceremony also aims to honor the unwavering commitment of family and professionals to ensuring these children’s optimum growth and well-being.