Prince Harry is set to return to the UK next year for the Invictus Games in Birmingham, and royal watchers are speculating whether Meghan Markle will accompany him. The event takes place in July 2027, just weeks before the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's death on August 31.
Meghan's Potential Return
Meghan has joined Harry at many previous Invictus Games ceremonies worldwide and is often by his side for major events. However, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond warns that Meghan's return to the UK would likely attract scrutiny.
Jennie said: "There's no getting away from the fact that Meghan sharply divides opinion in this country. Her critics and her fans are equally vocal and passionate. I'm sure she's aware that some, probably many, people in the UK blame her for Harry's estrangement from his family."
She added: "So she will know that any public appearances at the Invictus Games or to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Diana's death will risk drawing criticism in some quarters."
Recent UK Visit
Last month, Meghan joined Harry for part of his five-day visit to England, marking the one-year countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games, but was not pictured in public. The couple, with children Archie and Lilibet, visited Althorp House and met with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove.
Jennie believes Meghan is likely to attend next year's events, saying: "She was clearly prepared to join Harry at some events this year – before the latest security row blew up – so there's every prospect of her joining him at the Games next year."
Family Support
Jennie noted that Meghan's social media posts from the July trip, including photos from Althorp, suggest she would not miss a meaningful anniversary. She said: "I'm sure he would also want Meghan to be at his side if he takes part in any commemoration of his mother's death."
Jennie added that Meghan is aware of the criticism she faces but is resilient: "Meghan is a social media enthusiast: it seems to be a big part of her life and a vital part of her business ventures. She's not daft and she knows what comes with social media: and that's a lot of scrutiny and a lot of trolling. So we have to assume that she is tough enough to take that kind of criticism and that it is a price she would be willing to pay if she chooses to come to the UK."
