Prince Harry Arrives in UK, Won’t See King Charles for Invictus Games Anniversary

Prince Harry Arrives in the UK But Will Not Meet with King Charles

By Royal Correspondents: Natasha Preskey and Sean Coughlan

7 May 2024, 15:10 BST – Updated 1 hour ago

Prince Harry has arrived in the UK as part of his visit to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. However, he will not have the opportunity to see King Charles during his stay.

A spokesperson for the Duke of Sussex explained that this is due to the King’s “full programme” and Prince Harry “hopes to see him soon.”

Prince William, who is also a prominent figure in the royal family, will also not be attending an Invictus event on Wednesday.

Prince Harry’s Visit to the King

Prince Harry last visited the UK in February to see the King after he received a cancer diagnosis. At the time, the Duke demonstrated his understanding of his father’s commitments and stated that he looks forward to a reunion.

Buckingham Palace is refraining from commenting on the Duke’s visit.

Invictus Games

Prince Harry’s visit to the UK is primarily to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, an esteemed competition for wounded and injured servicemen and women. This significant event involves both serving and veteran military personnel.

Service of Thanksgiving

St. Paul’s Cathedral in London will hold a service of thanksgiving, with Prince Harry scheduled to give a reading. Actor Damian Lewis is set to recite a poem during the service. Notably, there has been no confirmation on any other high-ranking royals attending the event. King Charles and Prince William’s absence has been noted, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, will also be absent as she undergoes cancer treatment.

Future Plans for Prince Harry and Meghan

After his time in London, Prince Harry will visit Nigeria with his wife, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex. This trip comes as a result of the couple’s invitation from Nigeria’s chief of defence staff, who previously met Prince Harry during the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany.

Birmingham, in the UK, and Washington DC in the US, are among the shortlisted possible venues for hosting the Invictus Games in 2027.

Progress in the King’s Health

Recently, the King has gradually resumed public engagements after previous precautions to avoid crowds and public meetings due to an undisclosed cancer diagnosis. His treatment is ongoing, but medical advisors have allowed him to begin easing back into royal duties. However, it remains uncertain to what extent he will address the traditional royal summer events.