Prince Harry’s latest effort to mend his fractured relationship with King Charles has reportedly sparked new tension within royal circles, as the Duke of Sussex’s invitation to the monarch may unintentionally snub Queen Camilla.
According to a report from Woman’s Day, Prince Harry extended an olive branch by inviting his father to attend the 2027 Invictus Games. However, the timing of the event may complicate any hopes of reconciliation. The Games’ closing ceremony is scheduled for July 17, 2027, which also happens to be Queen Camilla’s 80th birthday.
Royal insiders believe King Charles will likely have long-standing plans in place to mark the milestone occasion with a celebration for his wife, placing him in a difficult position should he consider Harry’s invitation. “It’s still manageable, though, and Harry’s told organisers he’ll do whatever it takes to have them there – even sit at the opposite end of the stadium if that’s what they want.
This is about honouring our heroes,” one insider shared. The Duke, known for founding the Invictus Games to support wounded and injured veterans, is said to be “desperate to make amends” with his father, even if it means playing the long game. “He’s clearly willing to do whatever it takes,” the source added.
However, royal commentators warn that Harry’s plans may once again stir up old wounds, particularly with Queen Camilla, who was publicly criticized in Harry’s 2023 memoir Spare. In the book, Harry accused Camilla of leaking stories to the press and manipulating her image, deepening the rift between him and the rest of the royal family.
“Camilla will always win over Harry, especially after he trashed her in Spare,” a royal insider told the publication. “There’s no doubt Harry will not bat an eye over this clash with Camilla’s big birthday — it genuinely is by accident. But if it puts Camilla’s nose out of joint a little bit, then Harry’s not going to be too upset about that.”
Though the invitation to King Charles may appear to be a peace offering on the surface, the overlapping dates have only underscored the ongoing strain between Prince Harry and the royal household. As both sides weigh their priorities, it remains unclear whether the King will attend the 2027 Games or whether another missed opportunity for unity will mark the occasion.