Prince Harry's Invictus Games Foundation has strongly rejected claims made in a new book that the event has become a 'PR stunt' for Meghan Markle. The foundation described the allegations as 'disrespectful' and said they detract from the purpose of the Games.
In his forthcoming book, Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family, author Tom Bower alleges that the Invictus Games had become 'the Harry and Meghan show', with poor attendance and crowd 'padding' for cameras. He also claims that Meghan sought to use the platform for 'genuine admiration and cheering fans'.
The book further suggests that the couple insisted on being addressed as 'Ma'am and Sir' and incurred 'exorbitant' expenses for security and accommodation. Former executives are said to have considered Meghan a distraction from the athletes.
A spokesperson for the Invictus Games Foundation said: 'It is disappointing to see The Times give prominence to commentary that appears driven by a long-established agenda rather than a genuine understanding of the Invictus Games.' The statement emphasised that the foundation exists to support wounded service personnel and that questioning the legitimacy of competitors is 'deeply disrespectful'.
The Invictus Games, launched by Prince Harry in 2014, focus on the recovery and rehabilitation of injured veterans. Despite the controversy, some royal observers suggest that Harry may be seeking reconciliation with his family, with the Games offering a potential opportunity for peace.
