The power of sport to heal, unite, and inspire was on full display as a sold-out crowd of over 40,000 filled Vancouver’s BC Place for the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony. The energy in the stadium reflected not just the excitement of competition but the deeper journey of recovery and resilience shared by the competitors – wounded, injured, and ill service personnel from across the globe.

From the very first moments, the ceremony highlighted the strength found in community. The four First Nations on whose lands the Games take place, Lil̓wat7úl (Líl̓wat), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), offered a powerful welcome, setting the tone for an event that is not just about sport but about belonging, healing, and connection.

MUSIC UNITING ALL

Throughout the night, music amplified the message of resilience and recovery. Global icons Chris Martin, Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado, Noah Kahan, and Roxane Bruneau took to the stage, using their music to bring nations together in a celebration of determination and courage.

Each artist recognised the competitors not just for their service but for their strength in facing life’s toughest challenges. Noah Kahan acknowledged the impact of their journeys, saying, “Your openness with your struggles inspires us all.” Katy Perry reinforced this, telling the crowd, “Thank you for your service.”

TEAM AUS MOVE FORWARD WITH PRIDE

For Team Australia, the moment was made even more special by the announcement of their flag bearer Lieutenant Commander Dave Miln. Just two years after a devastating accident that led to the loss of both legs, Dave has embraced sport as a pathway to recovery. Competing in biathlon, Nordic skiing, swimming, and wheelchair rugby, he sees this as more than just competition, it’s a testament to the power of perseverance.

“I am absolutely honoured and stoked to be leading my teammates [into the Opening Ceremony],” Dave said, knowing firsthand how sport can provide a renewed sense of purpose.

As the 33 Team Australia competitors took the stage, their families and friends watched on, knowing the road to this moment had been paved with determination, setbacks, and breakthroughs. Each competitor’s journey is not just their own, it’s shared by those who have supported them every step of the way.

Prince harry: “You saved yourself”

The night’s most powerful message came from Prince Harry, the founder of the Invictus Games. In a speech that resonated across the stadium, he turned the focus back to the competitors.

“The Invictus Games didn’t save you—you saved yourself. You pushed through the doubt and despair… You kept going when you had nothing left to give. We didn’t do that, you did.”

His words captured the true essence of the Games: sport is a tool, a vehicle for recovery, but the real strength lies within those who take on the challenge.

As the competitors now set their sights on the days ahead, the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 is more than a competition. It’s a reminder that through sport, recovery is possible, and through the support of family, friends, and community, no one has to walk that path alone.

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About the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Invictus Games takes place from the 8th – 16th February in Canada. Invictus Australia, in partnership with the Australian Defence Force, are supporting 33 former and current serving competitors as part of Team Australia.

The Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event for serving and former serving military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, is the Patron of the Invictus Games. The Games uses the healing power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and celebrate the crucial role played by family and friends.

About Invictus Australia: Invictus Australia encourages veterans and their families to connect and engage with their communities through sport. Whether participating or volunteering at grassroots level, to competing internationally at an Invictus or Warrior Games, Invictus Australia leverages the power of sport to proactively foster good health and aid in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration. Invictus Australia promotes the physical, social and emotional benefits of sport for all, and shine a light on the unique needs of younger veterans, particularly the challenges associated with transitioning from military to civilian life.