The Invictus Games in Vancouver Whistler are gathering attention not only for their celebration of wounded servicemen and women but also for the star-studded lineup of attendees. Among the royal visitors are Prince Joachim and Princess Marie of Denmark, who are scheduled to attend the games this weekend. Their presence highlights the significance of this event, which was founded by Prince Harry himself.
A Show of Solidarity for Prince Harry
The Danish royals’ visit comes at a pivotal moment for Prince Harry, who is still at the Invictus Games after Meghan Markle, his wife, returned to Montecito. While Meghan had planned to be with their children, Harry remained in Canada, ensuring his involvement in the games up until the closing ceremony.
Prince Joachim and Princess Marie’s attendance adds an extra layer of support for Harry, who has long championed this competition for injured service members.
The Danish Royals’ Schedule at the Games
Prince Joachim and Princess Marie’s schedule includes attending various events at the games. On Friday, they will engage with Danish teams competing in rowing and volleyball, followed by a dinner with the athletes. Saturday will see them attending volleyball matches before joining two key receptions – one for Danish participants and another official gathering for all Invictus Games attendees.
The royal couple’s presence not only supports the athletes but also strengthens Denmark’s connection to the Invictus Games, which is all about resilience and strength. As one of the many royal families attending, the Danish royals are contributing to the international spotlight on the games and their noble cause.
Family and Royal Duties
Prince Joachim and Princess Marie have been residing in Washington D.C. since 2023, where Prince Joachim serves as the military industry attaché at the Danish Embassy. The couple’s move to the U.S. follows years spent living in Paris. They have two children together—Count Henrik, 15, and Countess Athena, 13—and Prince Joachim also has two older sons from a previous marriage, Count Nikolai, 25, and Count Felix, 22.
However, their family has experienced some changes. In January 2022, Queen Margrethe of Denmark decided to strip her younger son’s children of their royal titles, prompting a public apology to clarify that her family remains a source of great pride and joy. These shifts have been part of the broader adjustments following Queen Margrethe’s abdication in January 2024, when her eldest son, Prince Frederik, became King Frederik of Denmark.
Supporting the Invictus Games’ Impact
The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, remain a powerful platform for honoring the determination and spirit of service members who have faced life-changing injuries. Prince Harry’s mission with the games goes beyond the competition itself; it’s about encouraging healing through sport and providing a space for competitors to show the world their incredible resilience.
By attending the games, Prince Joachim and Princess Marie reinforce this mission and acknowledge the sacrifice and courage of those who have served in the military. Their presence underscores the royal family’s commitment to supporting the global community, especially those who have experienced the hardships of service.
What’s Next for Prince Harry and His Royal Family?
As Prince Harry continues his work with the Invictus Games, the support from other royal families, including the Danish royals, is a reminder of the importance of unity within the royal community. Although his personal life has seen its ups and downs, Harry remains dedicated to the cause he founded, and the games have become a testament to his dedication to veterans and service members around the world.
For the Danish royals, their visit not only highlights their role on the international stage but also showcases their personal investment in honoring military service and the Invictus Games’ empowering message. As they continue their support, the games remain a meaningful event in the calendar of royal engagements, full of inspiration and hope for all involved.
