King Charles faces having to 'choose between warring sons' William and Harry with Invictus Games 'invite'
William and Harry have reportedly been estranged for years
King Charles may soon be faced with the delicate task of choosing between his two estranged sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, after reports emerged that the Duke of Sussex is hoping his father will join him on stage to open the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham.
According to The Sun, Harry “desperately wants Charles at Invictus”. It would be a move that could signal a major step toward reconciliation between father and son following their private meeting at the king’s London residence, Clarence House, in September 2025.
That reunion came during one of Harry’s rare visits to the UK. It was seen as a possible turning point in their fractured relationship following years of Harry’s tell-all interviews about life inside the monarchy.
A spokesperson at the time said Harry had “loved” being back in Britain, adding fuel to speculation that he may now be planning more frequent visits.
King Charles may have to ‘choose’ between Prince Harry and Prince William
Inviting King Charles to take part in the Invictus Games, Harry’s flagship project for wounded veterans, would signal a step towards reconciliation.
However, it also risks reigniting tensions with Prince William, whose relationship with Harry reportedly remains severed.
“Invictus has become pivotal. It is Harry’s great cause and his greatest achievement. Any father would want to support his son as the games come to the UK,” royal commentator Jennie Bond has told The Mirror. “But it’s not straightforward for the king. Sadly for him, his family matters never are.”
She added: “It could become a classic case of a father having to choose between his warring sons.”
William last attended the Invictus Games in 2014. He is not expected to make an appearance next year.
He and Harry have reportedly not spoken since Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022. Their rift was allegedly worsened by the publication of Harry’s memoir, Spare, in which the Duke of Sussex accused William of attacking him. Harry also made claims about William’s wife, Catherine.
It could become a classic case of a father having to choose between his warring sons.
“William has bitten his lip, risen above the accusations, and knuckled down to the job,” said Bond. “To see his father stand on a public platform and salute Harry’s achievement would be tough.”
The Prince of Wales has not commented on the upcoming Invictus Games.
Invictus Games 2027
The next Invictus Games are scheduled to begin on July 10, 2027, and will end on Queen Camilla’s 80th birthday. This may potentially complicate the king’s availability.
A source said that organisers are “aware” of the scheduling clash. However, they reportedly hope Charles can attend the opening ceremony and other events “while still honouring commitments” to his wife.
A spokesperson for the Invictus Games previously confirmed that invitations will be sent to the royal family.
“The royal family have been longstanding supporters of the Invictus Games since its inception in 2014,” they said. “While it is too early to confirm who will attend in 2027… we would very much welcome their presence.”
Meanwhile, even if the Invictus Games do help pave the way for a family reunion, it would still require careful, private reconciliation behind the scenes.
Bond noted that such matters are “best worked out in private”. She stressed that any reconnection between the king and Prince Harry should happen “behind closed doors”.
Royal Insider has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.
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