Prince William and Kate Middleton are not expected to attend any events hosted by Prince Harry, including the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, amid ongoing tensions within the royal family.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told the Daily Express that the future king and queen are “not thought likely to attend” the games, which were founded by Harry to support wounded military personnel.
“I strongly doubt Princess Anne will attend. However, there is a long time to go and anything could happen!” Fitzwilliams added, emphasizing that the situation could change as the event approaches. The expert noted the significance of the Invictus Games as a military charity and raised questions about whether King Charles, as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, would attend.
“We do know that if he does not, he is certain to be represented. He might ask Beatrice and Eugenie, both of whom get on with the Sussexes, to represent him,” Fitzwilliams said. He explained that having Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie attend would be “quite within his right as monarch, although it would obviously be seen as a snub. In any event, they are expected to attend.”
The comments come as speculation continues about Harry’s efforts to reconcile with the royal family. While the prince has expressed a desire to mend relationships, the apparent reluctance of William and Kate to engage publicly suggests the rift remains significant.
The Invictus Games have drawn both public admiration and debate, particularly regarding the royals’ involvement and the balance between personal family dynamics and public duties. Some fans have voiced frustration online about Harry’s position as patron, with one comment stating: “Invictus should be defunded until it replaces Harry, Markle with a Patron who represents the Armed Services’ ethos of loyalty, integrity, and duty to Monarchy and Country.”
As the 2027 Games approach, all eyes will be on the royal family’s attendance and whether any behind-the-scenes reconciliation will take place. For now, the expert’s assessment suggests that William and Kate are likely to maintain their distance, highlighting the enduring tension between the senior royals and Prince Harry.
The upcoming event underscores the complex interplay of family, duty, and public image that continues to define the modern British monarchy, with the Invictus Games serving as a high-profile stage for both unity and division.