Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex on stage during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games at BC Place on February 08, 2025 in Whistler, British Columbia.

Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex on stage during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games at BC Place on February 08, 2025 in Whistler, British Columbia.

Many of the over 500 athletes from 23 countries were moved to tears while hearing Prince Harry speak.

Prince Harry wrapped his speech with a challenge to the athletes: “Show the world how you behave under completely impossible circumstances. Show the world your fearlessness. Show the world the grandeur in your attempt at victory. Show the world why you are Invictus.”

Prince Harry, a former captain in the British Army, created the adaptive sporting event in 2014 for wounded, injured and sick service members and veterans.

“We’ve been thrilled to be able to work with him on the approach to the [ceremonies]. We’ve kept him posted about shortlists and what we’re talking about. He’s had input,” McVicker revealed.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games at BC Place on February 08, 2025

The closing ceremony will take place on Feb. 16 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver and also feature a star-studded lineup, with performances from Jelly Roll, Barenaked Ladies and The War and Treaty.

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Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games at BC Place on February 08, 2025

This year has an extra element of excitement, as winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, curling and skeleton will be included for the first time.

source: people.com