Prince Harry has appointed one of his most trusted former royal aides, Nick Booth, as interim CEO of the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, following the abrupt departures of two senior executives. Booth, who previously ran the Royal Foundation for Prince William and Prince Harry, stepped into the role after CEO Peter Lawless and Chief Commercial Officer Bill Cooper left in the autumn.
Booth, who also heads the Canadian charity True Patriot Love Foundation, was instrumental in setting up the Invictus Games and is described by insiders as one of the Duke of Sussex's 'right-hand men'. His appointment comes amid claims of low morale among staff, with one whistleblower telling MailOnline that the changes have unsettled the team.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a surprise visit to Vancouver two weeks ago, attending an ice hockey game with local dignitaries shortly after Booth's appointment. The couple, who fell in love in Canada, appeared to enjoy their return to the country, which will host the next Invictus Games in February 2025, featuring winter sports for the first time.
An Invictus Games spokesman confirmed Booth's role, stating that he had been advising the team since the bid was awarded and that the transition ensured continuity. The spokesman added that the team is focused on delivering an incredible Games, welcoming up to 550 competitors from up to 25 nations.
However, the departures of Lawless and Cooper have raised concerns. Lawless, a respected Olympic and Paralympic administrator, was reportedly fired, though Invictus declined to comment, stating he was 'transitioned out' and remains an ambassador. Cooper left in October after ten months as Chief Commercial Officer. A Games volunteer expressed concern that the upheaval could overshadow the event and that security costs for the Sussexes might strain finances.
