Prince Harry combined heartfelt reflections with light-hearted moments as he marked one year until the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, using the event to champion wounded service personnel while also addressing his family during a live television interview.
Appearing alongside television presenter Alison Hammond at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), the Duke of Sussex took part in a series of sporting activities and spoke passionately about the impact the Invictus Games continue to have on veterans recovering from physical and psychological injuries.
Duke Shares Emotional Message About Meghan and His Children
During an interview broadcast on ITV’s This Morning, Alison Hammond asked Harry whether Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, tell him how proud they are of his work.
Harry responded warmly, saying the feeling of pride is mutual.
“They don’t tell me every day that they’re proud of me, but yeah, I’m proud of them, they’re proud of me. I love my family,” the duke said.
He also revealed that Meghan, Archie and Lilibet fully support his commitment to the Invictus Games and the work he continues to do on behalf of wounded veterans.
Meghan Reportedly Expected to Travel to the UK
Harry’s appearance comes as reports suggest Meghan Markle could soon arrive in Britain with Archie and Lilibet after remaining in Europe with the children earlier in the week.
The Duchess of Sussex had originally hoped to attend the “One Year to Go” celebrations alongside Harry but did not travel because of ongoing concerns surrounding security arrangements.
While no public appearances involving Meghan or the children are expected, discussions reportedly continue regarding the possibility of a private meeting between the Sussex family and King Charles during Harry’s visit.
Speculation has increased that the King could see his California-based grandchildren for the first time in several years if the visit goes ahead.
Birmingham Holds Special Meaning for Invictus Community
Harry explained that returning to Birmingham carried deep significance because many British soldiers wounded during operations in Afghanistan passed through the city after returning home.
He described Birmingham as a symbolic place for many members of the armed forces and said the city represented a genuine homecoming for numerous veterans connected to the Invictus movement.
The duke added that resilience exists in everyone and expressed hope that the Games would continue inspiring people living with both physical and mental injuries.
Sport and Laughter Take Centre Stage
Away from the interviews, Harry enthusiastically joined competitors across several activities designed to showcase sports featured at the upcoming Games.
He played pickleball, tested his skills in wheelchair rugby, joined a laser tag challenge and even raced Alison Hammond and former serviceman JJ Chalmers around the venue.
The duke entertained spectators throughout the day, joking with fellow competitors, posing for selfies and sharing playful moments during matches.
One humorous exchange saw him pretend to pull away from a handshake after a game, drawing laughter from those watching.
During wheelchair rugby, Harry threw an impressive overhead pass that helped create a try for his team, earning praise from Paralympian and television presenter Ade Adepitan.
Friendly Banter With Alison Hammond
Harry and Alison Hammond’s interview featured several humorous exchanges that highlighted their easy rapport.
After Alison jokingly invited Harry to her Birmingham home for ackee and saltfish while saying she first needed to tidy the house and clean the bathroom, Harry responded that he would happily bleach her toilet himself.
The pair also discussed the ongoing football World Cup, with Harry briefly referring to the sport as “soccer” before immediately correcting himself and apologising.
Harry also revealed that Archie is a fan of Junior Bake Off, prompting another light-hearted conversation between the two presenters.
Invictus Leaders Emphasise Lasting Legacy
Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 Chief Executive Helen Helliwell told attendees that the competition represents much more than a week of sporting events.
She said the Games continue transforming the lives of competitors while also providing lasting support for their families, reinforcing the wider purpose behind the international competition founded by Prince Harry.
The event also featured broadcaster Ade Adepitan and several veterans who demonstrated wheelchair rugby and hybrid athletics ahead of Birmingham hosting the Games in July 2027.
Hospital Visit Continues Harry’s UK Engagements
Before arriving at the NEC, Harry visited Birmingham Children’s Hospital to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the WellChild Nurse programme, a charity initiative he has supported as patron for nearly two decades.
He met specialist nurses, young patients and their families while thanking healthcare staff for their dedication.
During conversations with families, Harry shared that Archie has become an enthusiastic Lego builder, describing his son as a “master builder.”
The hospital visit formed part of Harry’s five-day schedule in Britain, which has also included meetings at the Royal Hospital Chelsea focused on preparations for future Invictus Games events and the upcoming Invictus Spirit Awards.
Royal Family Continues Separate Engagements
As Harry continued his programme in Birmingham, other members of the Royal Family remained engaged in their own public duties across the country.
Prince William spent the day visiting communities in Hastings, while attention remained focused on whether Harry’s wife and children would travel to Britain before the duke concludes his visit.
Any reunion involving King Charles is expected to take place privately, should it happen, with no official confirmation yet announced.
