The Invictus Games has strongly refuted suggestions that it is losing sponsors ahead of next year's event in Birmingham, following remarks by a television presenter who claimed Prince Harry had 'lost his way'. A spokesperson for the Games told BirminghamLive that commercial partnerships are actually growing, with new partners joining and existing ones like Boeing remaining firmly on board.
Claims of sponsorship losses dismissed
Presenter Mark Dolan, speaking on The Daily Espresso podcast, alleged that the Invictus Games was losing sponsors, including headline sponsor Boeing, and suggested that the 2027 event could be the last. 'He's lost his way,' Dolan said of Prince Harry. 'And then of course our mutual friend Paula Froelich has revealed that not only are Invictus losing sponsors, including the headline sponsor Boeing, this could be the last Invictus next year, and it could all go up in smoke.'
However, an Invictus Games spokesperson categorically denied these claims. 'Boeing remains in a multi-year partnership with the Invictus Games Foundation supporting sport recovery programmes through 2027,' the spokesperson said. 'Boeing also continues to support Invictus Germany and Invictus Australia. Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 remains in active discussions with Boeing, alongside other partners, regarding Birmingham 2027.'
New commercial partners and future hosts
Far from losing sponsors, the Games are actually expanding their commercial portfolio. The spokesperson confirmed that new partners are being added, including Defender, a Jaguar Land Rover brand. 'Commercial partnerships continue to develop for Birmingham 2027, with further exciting announcements to follow in due course,' they added.
Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games celebrates the resilience of wounded and injured military personnel and veterans. The multi-sport event will return to the UK next year, taking place at the National Exhibition Centre and Sandwell Aquatic Centre. Prince Harry himself appeared in Birmingham to mark the one-year countdown, a visit that prompted Dolan's comments.
Continued global growth
Addressing the suggestion that Birmingham 2027 could be the final Games, the spokesperson pointed to the event's international expansion. 'South Korea has already been announced as host of the 2029 Invictus Games, demonstrating the continued international growth of the Invictus movement and its future beyond Birmingham 2027,' they said.
The Invictus Games Foundation remains committed to using the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation, and generate a wider understanding and respect for those who serve their country. With Birmingham set to welcome competitors from around the world, organisers are focused on delivering a memorable and impactful event.
