Prince Harry's Invictus Games will reportedly be sponsored by Amazon next year in a “big-money deal,” it has been claimed. The tech giant, which has its own streaming service – Prime Video – is said to have agreed to terms that could increase the chances of Meghan Markle making an appearance there next year.
Deal to save Games from funding crisis
Harry did visit the UK earlier this summer to mark the one-year-to-go countdown; however, his wife did not join him in any public appearances. Sources said the new deal would save the Games, which are set to run from July 10 until July 17, from a “funding crisis”. Organisers of Harry’s passion project reportedly need around £20million to cover costs.
A source told The Sun: “The deal would be a shot in the arm for Invictus and Harry. The Invictus committee are really hoping it gets over the line. Amazon wanted to get involved.”
Amazon rivalry with Netflix
They added: “The games are a big undertaking and expensive. And it’s interesting Amazon is Netflix’s big rival. It maybe shows Harry and Meg moving in a different direction with a new partner.”
Harry and Meghan are on a first-look deal with Netflix after not renewing their lucrative 2020 deal. Livewire Pictures are said to be producing coverage of the 2027 games but the Invictus Foundation has not yet announced a broadcaster.
Invictus Games response
An Invictus Games spokesperson said: “Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 is excited about the partnerships taking shape as we build towards the Games next year. We’ve already announced some great partners and look forward to welcoming more who share our ambition for the Games in the months ahead. Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 has the funding required to deliver the Games. We are supported through a combination of UK Government underwriting, commercial partnerships, charitable support and in-kind contributions and will continue to secure additional income as we move towards the Games.”
