The Invictus Games 2025 opened with a dazzling ceremony in Vancouver, Canada, as pop sensation Katy Perry led an ensemble of star performers to celebrate the resilience and spirit of wounded veterans.
- Feb 9, 2025
AceShowbiz - This year's Invictus Games started with a bang on February 8, as spectators at BC Place were treated to an unforgettable evening. Katy Perry, the pop superstar, headlined the opening ceremony, closing the show and thrilling the audience with hits like "Roar", "Dark Horse", and "Firework".
She was joined by the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy, the 15th Field Regiment Band, and the Royal Canadian Artillery Band, alongside 70 Invictus Games Dance Corp members. The energetic performance even inspired a conga line among the attendees.
The ceremony also featured performances by Coldplay's Chris Martin, Nelly Furtado, Noah Kahan, and Roxanne Bruneau. Indigenous leaders from the Four Host First Nations of Lílwat, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh greeted the competitors with a symbolic welcome.
Former soldier Prince Harry, who founded the Invictus Games in 2014, delivered an emotional speech, praising the competitors' character and perseverance.
"The Games simply reveal what is already within you. That scarcest-and most precious-of the world's resources: character. A spirit-of fortitude and perseverance that can never be defeated. That is the magic of the Invictus Games," he said.
Harry emphasized the importance of unity in a world divided, stating, "In this moment of difficulty and division in many parts of the world, we gather here in Vancouver in a spirit of unity."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who briefly resided in Canada, were warmly welcomed by the crowd, with Meghan Markle seen waving blue pom-poms and delivering a heartfelt speech to introduce her husband before he took the stage and greeted her with a kiss.
This year's Games mark the inclusion of winter sports such as alpine skiing and snowboarding for the first time. More than 500 competitors from 23 countries will participate across venues in Vancouver and Whistler.
"He has done a fantastic job and it would be great to meet him," said Navy veteran Colin McCallum, reflecting on Harry's dedication to the Games.
The Invictus Games 2025 promise to be the biggest and best yet, celebrating the dedication and heroism of service personnel and veterans. As the event continues to unfold, the spirit of camaraderie and support is unmistakable, a true testament to the power of unity and resilience.
