Invictus torch handed to Birmingham as games end

The Invictus Games torch has been passed to Birmingham after the closing ceremony of the 2025 event was staged in Canada.

The seventh edition of the games, which has taken place over the past week, has brought more than 500 competitors from 23 nations to Vancouver and Whistler.

It comes two years before the games, which were founded by the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, is held in Birmingham.

Wounded, injured and sick military service personnel, both serving and veterans, will compete in events across the city in 2027.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Sunday, Prince Harry said the event was a "platform for positive change".

"And so long as the challenges around us demand it and require it... the Games will go on," he said.

"Bring on Invictus Games Birmingham 2027. You have permission to party."

UK captains Stephen "Hoops" Hooper, Neil Thomas and Gemma Barnes received the official flag to signify the exchange from Whistler and Vancouver to Birmingham.

Mr Hooper, an RAF veteran, said he had spent an "awesome" week during the 2025 games.

"From proposals to PBs, we've enjoyed stunning scenery and made memories to last a lifetime," he said.

"We arrived in Canada full of anticipation - we leave stronger, braver, more resilient and closer than ever to our recovery.

"We are proud to bring the Games home to Birmingham in '27."

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