Royal Schedules Clash with Invictus Anniversary as Prince Harry Visits U.K.
As Prince Harry marks the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games in London, his return coincides with notably absent family members, namely King Charles III and Prince William. Both cite full schedules, mirroring each other’s reasons for their nonattendance at the upcoming St. Paul’s Cathedral service.
Prince Harry, the founder of the Invictus Games—a sporting event for wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel and veterans—returned to the U.K. to celebrate this significant milestone. Despite his presence in the country, none of his royal family members have joined the festivities thus far.
Speculation about a possible reunion with his father, King Charles, was quelled by announcements of the King’s and Prince William’s engagements elsewhere. King Charles recently resumed public duties after an 11-week hiatus for cancer treatment, and his commitments include meetings with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and hosting a Buckingham Palace garden party. According to a spokesperson for Prince Harry, “The Duke, of course, is understanding of his father’s diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon.”
Similarly, Prince William’s absence is attributed to a busy schedule, compounded by personal challenges. “William is a hop, skip, and a jump from the throne,” shared an insider. “With an ill wife and three young children—he has plenty on his plate.” Indeed, Kate Middleton, 42, is currently undergoing cancer treatment, adding to the Prince of Wales’s responsibilities. William’s commitments will soon take him from London to Cornwall and then to the Isles of Scilly.
The royal family’s schedules and the ongoing health concerns of its members have thus far prevented any significant gathering during Harry’s visit. The last meeting between Harry and King Charles occurred in February 2024, shortly after the monarch’s cancer diagnosis was publicized, with their interaction lasting less than an hour.
As Prince Harry continues his visit, there is no confirmed information about further travels to the U.K. or potential visits with his father and brother in 2024. However, there is hopeful speculation about possible future meetings, including a potential invitation from King Charles to the Sussex family to join him at Balmoral, which could serve as a conciliatory gesture.
Despite the physical distance at this time, the possibility of reconciliation and familial gatherings remains a topic of interest and speculation among royal watchers and the public alike.