Prince Harry Launches Invictus Games Education Programme in Birmingham

Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, made a significant appearance in Birmingham on Friday, September 18, 2026, to officially launch the INSPIRE: Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 education programme. The initiative, developed in collaboration with The Education Exchange West Midlands and schools and colleges across the region, aims to prepare students and young people for the international sporting event. During his visit to Ninestiles Secondary School, the Duke participated in hands-on activities with students, including playing pickleball and engaging in panel discussions about the Invictus Games. The programme represents a key component of Birmingham's preparation for hosting the games, which will take place in July 2027 and mark the first time the event has returned to the United Kingdom since its inaugural edition in 2014. The Invictus Games is a Paralympic-style tournament founded by Prince Harry in 2014, designed specifically for wounded, injured, and ill service personnel and veterans. Speaking at an Invictus event on September 17, the Duke expressed enthusiasm about his return: "It's great to be back on British soil, and looking forward to Birmingham next year for the Invictus Games that's coming up." Birmingham won its bid to host the 2027 games against Washington DC, with the city's strong ties to the armed forces community and its Queen Elizabeth Hospital specializing in military casualty treatment proving decisive factors. The games are expected to be supported by central government funding, addressing financial concerns from Birmingham City Council's previous budget challenges. The education programme reflects Prince Harry's broader commitment to supporting the veteran community and using the Invictus Games as a platform to celebrate courage and inspire hope among service personnel and the general public.