Prince Harry has returned to the UK to mark the one-year countdown to the Invictus Games, but his trip has been marred by rows with the royals. According to The Times' Royal Editor Kate Mansey, royal staff had a savage three-word nickname for Harry and his uncle Prince Andrew: 'Dukes of Hazard'.
Nickname Revealed
Speaking on the Sun's Royal Exclusive podcast, Mansey said: 'It was Dukes of Hazard, that's the nickname they had for Andrew and Harry because hazard, chaos followed both of them. They were the two big problems that were pointed out to me by courtiers, big hurdles for the king during his reign, alarm signals flash every time their names are mentioned.'
Accommodation Row
Harry's visit has been overshadowed by a dispute over where he would stay. Harry's camp claims he was offered a room at Buckingham Palace but had to delay acceptance while arranging private security after being denied police protection. The Duke of Sussex says the Palace withdrew the offer at the last minute. Royal sources counter that the offer was on the table with a clear deadline, which Harry's team missed and then formally declined, later trying to change their minds too late.
Security Concerns
Harry's security remains a contentious issue. He says it is why he travelled without wife Meghan Markle and their children, Lilibet and Archie. Despite losing his legal battle for automatic UK police protection, Mansey noted: 'It's always presented as a pressing and urgent issue. It seems every time he comes palace courtiers get more and more weary with it and frankly I think the public do too.'
Invictus Games Countdown
Harry is due in Birmingham on Thursday, July 9, to begin the one-year countdown to the Invictus Games, scheduled for July 2027. He is expected to observe and participate in exhibition events alongside past competitors. Reports also suggest he will visit his mother's grave at Althorp House in Northamptonshire. King Charles reportedly still wants to meet with Harry, Meghan, and his grandchildren.
