The Duke of Sussex has inadvertently triggered a diplomatic incident after presenting competitors at the Invictus Games with an unexpected gift: baseball caps from the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The seemingly innocent gesture has forced British officials into the uncomfortable position of issuing a formal apology to Canadian authorities, who are hosting this year's games in Vancouver and Whistler.
Breaking Royal Protocol
According to established royal protocol, members of the royal family are prohibited from endorsing commercial brands during official engagements. Harry's decision to distribute the prominently branded headwear during the winter adaptive sports competition has been deemed a clear violation of these long-standing rules.
A spokesperson for the UK's Department for Business and Trade confirmed that officials had been in contact with their Canadian counterparts to "apologise for any breach of protocol." The incident highlights the complex web of regulations that continues to bind Harry despite his step back from royal duties.
The California Connection
The choice of LA Dodgers merchandise carries particular significance, given the team's deep roots in the Sussexes' adopted home of California. Since relocating to Montecito in 2020, both Harry and Meghan have increasingly embraced their West Coast identity.
This isn't the first time the couple's commercial affiliations have raised eyebrows. Their multimillion-dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify have previously drawn criticism about blurring the lines between royalty and commerce.
Invictus Games Controversy
The incident occurred during what should have been a celebratory moment for the Invictus Games, the sporting event Harry founded in 2014 to support wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. The games represent one of the Duke's most cherished projects and greatest royal legacies.
Observers note that the apology underscores the ongoing tension between Harry's current life in America and the formal expectations that still govern his royal connections. The situation demonstrates that even from across the Atlantic, the shadow of palace protocol remains long.
As one royal commentator noted, "It's a classic case of Harry wanting to do things his way, while the institution he left behind continues to operate by its own rulebook."
