From February 8 to 16, 2025, the Invictus Games made history by incorporating winter sports for the first time in its seven-year legacy. Hosted in Vancouver and Whistler, Canada, the Games featured 550 competitors from 25 nations, showcasing the resilience and determination of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.
Introduction of Winter Sports
The 2025 Games marked a significant evolution in the Invictus Games’ history with the inclusion of winter adaptive sports. Athletes competed in alpine skiing, snowboarding, biathlon, Nordic skiing, skeleton, and wheelchair curling. These events were held in the world-renowned venues of Whistler Blackcomb and Whistler Olympic Park, providing a challenging and inspiring backdrop for the competitors.
Core Sports and Venues
In addition to the winter sports, the Games featured core sports such as indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair basketball. These events took place in various venues across Vancouver, including BC Place, Rogers Arena, and the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The Opening Ceremony, held on February 8 at BC Place, was a star-studded event featuring performances by Chris Martin, Katy Perry, Noah Kahan, Nelly Furtado, and Roxane Bruneau. Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and founder of the Invictus Games, officially opened the Games, emphasizing the importance of sport in the recovery and rehabilitation of service personnel.
Cultural Significance
The Games were held on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, Lil’wat, and Nlaka’pamux Nations. Organizers worked closely with Indigenous communities to ensure cultural protocols were respected and to honor Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.
Closing Ceremony and Performances
The Closing Ceremony on February 16 at Rogers Arena featured performances by Jelly Roll, Barenaked Ladies, and The War and Treaty. The event celebrated the achievements of the competitors and the spirit of the Invictus Games, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
Legacy of the Games
The 2025 Invictus Games not only introduced winter sports but also expanded the event’s reach and impact. The Games continue to inspire individuals worldwide, demonstrating the power of sport in healing and rehabilitation. With plans for future Games in Birmingham in 2027, the Invictus Games’ legacy of resilience and unity continues to grow.
