Vancouver, BC – The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 concluded with an emotional and inspiring closing ceremony at Rogers Arena, featuring powerful speeches, historic moments, and standout musical performances.
The ceremony brought together global dignitaries, athletes, and supporters to celebrate the resilience and achievements of the wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans who competed over the past nine days. Among the notable figures addressing the audience were Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex; Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; famed wheelchair athlete and philanthropist Rick Hansen; Olympic gold medallist Ashleigh McIvor; Paralympic bronze medallist Alexis Guimond; and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim.
Prince Harry, founder of the Invictus Games, delivered a heartfelt speech, commending the competitors for their dedication and perseverance. He reiterated the mission of the Games as a platform for recovery and support, emphasizing that the journey of healing continues beyond the event.
Prime Minister Trudeau, despite recent political turbulence, received an unexpected round of applause from the audience, as he spoke on Canada’s pride in hosting the Games and the importance of supporting veterans through sport and community engagement.
One of the ceremony’s key moments was the official handover of the Invictus flag to representatives from the United Kingdom, as Vancouver passed the torch to Birmingham, which will host the next iteration of the Games in 2027. This marks the first time the event will return to the UK since its inception in London in 2014.
The evening was punctuated by dynamic performances, including Canadian icons Barenaked Ladies and singer Marie-Mai, who energized the crowd with their signature sounds. American musician Jelly Roll delivered a stirring set, while The War and Treaty brought their soulful energy to the stage, reinforcing the themes of resilience and unity that define the Invictus Games.
The 2025 Invictus Games were historic in their inclusion of adaptive winter sports for the first time, expanding the competition’s reach and accessibility. Athletes competed in events such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, biathlon, and wheelchair curling, alongside traditional Invictus sports like wheelchair basketball and swimming.
As the Invictus Vancouver Whistler 2025 Games close, the excitement for Birmingham 2027 began. The UK will now take on the responsibility of continuing the Invictus legacy, ensuring that more service members and veterans can find hope, healing, and purpose through sport.
While the competition has come to a close, the message of the Invictus Games remains: I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.
Follow the JourneyFor more highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on the upcoming Games, visit invictusgames2025.ca.
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