Canada to host first-ever winter hybrid Invictus Games
Veterans Affairs Canada has already committed CA$ 15 million.
The next edition of the Invictus Games, an international athletic competition for military personnel wounded or disabled in service, concluded today in Dusseldorf, Germany. At the closing ceremony, the flag of the games was handed over to officials from the Canadian delegation. The next time these sporting events will be held in Vancouver and Whistler in 2025.
The next Invictus Games will be special. For the first time, they will be held in a hybrid format — traditional summer sports will be complemented by winter sports. Of course, Canada will be the perfect host country for such an occasion.
The Invictus Games have been held irregularly since 2014 on the initiative of British Prince Harry (now Duke of Sussex). The summer format traditionally includes the following disciplines: rowing on simulators, wheelchair basketball and rugby, sitting volleyball and swimming. From 2025, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, skeleton and wheelchair curling will be added.
Canada's Minister of Sport and Physical Activity Carla Qualtrough expressed the general mood of the Canadian authorities with her heartfelt comment:
"As an athlete with a disability, the wife of a veteran, and the mother of a serving officer, I know the difference the Invictus Games make in the lives of veterans, members of the Armed Forces and their families. The Invictus Games serve as a constant reminder that our injuries and disabilities do not define us—they harness the power of sport to change how we see the world and our place in it. Canada is proud to be part of this mission in 2025."
The Vancouver-Whistler Invictus Games will bring together more than 500 participants from 25 countries. Canada will dedicate the event to respecting territorial protocols and working with local indigenous communities. The Games will also take place on their territories.
