Prince Harry’s Invictus Games in Turmoil as Senior Executives Dismissed

The future of Prince Harry's Invictus Games has been thrown into uncertainty after two senior executives were reportedly dismissed without explanation over a year before the next annual event.

Last week, a whistleblower revealed to the Mail Online that CEO Peter Lawless, a respected Olympic and Paralympic administrator in Canada, abruptly left his position, leaving staff morale at an all-time low.

While a spokesperson for the Games confirmed Lawless' departure, they emphasized that he would continue to serve as an ambassador.

Additionally, former Chief Commercial Officer Bill Cooper is said to be leaving the team after stepping down in October, prompting criticism from some who believe the Games made a significant mistake by parting ways with him.

Amidst this upheaval, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the upcoming Invictus Games, which aim to honor and support veterans.

Recent reports from Germany have shed light on the allocation of funds, revealing that 24% of Invictus' budget in Dusseldorf went towards Prince Harry and Meghan's security, accommodation, and “side events.”

The term “side events” likely encompasses expenses such as Meghan's clothing, jewelry, travel, hotel stays, and even Harry's birthday celebration.

These revelations have sparked controversy, especially considering Harry's previous claim in his book that he and Meghan chose not to touch the money left to him by his late mother, Princess Diana, and instead relied on funds from charitable organizations.

Despite the turmoil surrounding the Games, Prince Harry and Meghan appeared relaxed during their recent attendance at an NHL game in Canada.

The couple, who are currently in the country to promote the next Invictus Games scheduled for February 2025 in Vancouver and Whistler, showed their support for winter sports, which will be included in the competition for the first time.

Meghan's surprise appearance at the Variety Power of Women event in Los Angeles last week also garnered attention.

However, her involvement in public events has previously been criticized for overshadowing Prince Harry's sole legitimate project, the Invictus Games.

War commentator Kinsey Schofield, speaking on Sky News, accused Meghan of deliberately diverting attention from her husband during her appearance at a fast food drive while seated in an expensive Land Rover.

Schofield suggested that the orchestrated nature of the photo indicated Meghan's intention to steal the spotlight.

She argued that Meghan, having spent enough time in the royal family, should have known to remain low-key when other family members were engaged in significant public events.

Schofield cautioned against Meghan using her own publicity to overshadow the Invictus Games, as it is the one event that gives the couple a sense of legitimacy.

In the midst of these developments, rumors have emerged about Prince Harry's desire to purchase a home in the UK, a prospect that reportedly doesn't sit well with Meghan Markle.

Sources indicate that Harry is determined to establish a UK base outside of the Kensington estate and buy a house of their own.

However, there are suggestions that Meghan is feeling anxious about this decision, fearing that it will result in Harry spending less time with her in California.

Speculation has arisen regarding an ultimatum given by Meghan to her husband, with divorce even being mentioned as a possibility.

The future of the Invictus Games hangs in the balance as the organization navigates the departure of key figures and questions surrounding the allocation of funds.

The Games, which have provided a platform for veterans to showcase their resilience and strength, may face further challenges in maintaining their integrity and impact amid the ongoing controversies surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan.