The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 came to an inspiring close on the evening of February 17 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. After 8 days of competing, competitors, their families, friends and supporters came together to celebrate the shared moments of triumph seen over the course of the Games. The closing ceremony was a fitting tribute to the competitors and their journey to recovery and rehabilitation.

Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, was there to acknowledge the strength of all those who have fought for their nations.

You all embody what it means to be unconquered.”

Justin trudeau

Prime minister of canada

The Founder of the Invictus Games Foundation and the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry addressed this year’s competitors and their friends and family one last time. He acknowledged the power of the human spirit and the strength that lies in rising above adversity.

He about those lost while recognising the journey it takes to get to an Invictus Games, “To our comrades, friends or loved ones that we lost to battle or suicide. Tonight, we honour you too. To those of you whose journey to these games have been uncertain… thank you for showing us what’s possible.”

Before officially bidding farewell to competitors, family, friends and supporters, he made a promise to the room;

“From one soldier to another, I also promise you this, so long as our brothers and sisters are striving to heal and grow, the games will go on.”

AN INVICTUS JOURNEY: More than medals

For many competitors, like Nigel Coutts from Team Australia, the Games were about much more than just competition. “Results don’t matter,” he said. “It’s all about just being here at the Games and meeting other people and learning their experiences as well.” Throughout the week, the competitors discovered that the Games have been a powerful platform for sharing their journeys, forging new friendships, and drawing strength from one another. “It just gets better and better each day,” Nigel shared. “You meet new people and make friends along the way.”

THE POWER OF INVICTUS

While the formal closing marked the end of the Games, the true victory for the competitors lies in the bonds they have formed and the inner strength they have rediscovered. For many, the Invictus Games were not just about competition, they were about personal growth, reclaiming a sense of purpose, and breaking down barriers, both physical and emotional.

For each competitor, the Games were a testament to the transformative power of sport. While the medals and podium finishes were celebrated, it was the moments of camaraderie, resilience, and determination that defined the event. Competitors pushed beyond their limits, cheered each other on, and supported one another through every challenge, showing the world the true meaning of Invictus.

NEW SPORTS, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

These Games were the turning point for many in Team Australia, introducing them to sports they would have never had the opportunity to try before. Competitor Callan McLean is grateful the experience has opened his eyes to adaptive sport, something he hopes to continue post Games.

“Being exposed to so many adaptive sports has really opened my eyes up to what I can actually do after the games. Taking part in wheelchair rugby and some more adaptive swimming is definitely on the cards for me” Callan shared.

THE CURTAIN CLOSES, BUT THE SUPPORT CONTINUES

As the closing ceremony concluded, the Games was passed on to the next host city, Birmingham, which is set for September 2027.

As the arena lights dimmed and the Games have come to an end, the Invictus Games has left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it; a reminder that sport can truly change lives.

The work of Invictus Australia, doesn’t stop now that the Games are over. Beyond the competition, Invictus Australia continues to be a cornerstone of support for veterans and their families. We are committed to creating pathways for healing, fostering community connections, and providing opportunities for veterans to grow, both through sport and personal development.

To find out about how you can get involved in our local activity, check out the local engagement page here.

The Invictus Games is an international, adaptive multi-sports competition for serving and former military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Team Australia is delivered in partnership between Invictus Australia and the Australian Defence Force, and consists of 33 competitors.  

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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.