As the patron of the Invictus Games Foundation, Harry announced the second Invictus Games have been awarded to Orlando and will be held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex from the 8-12 of May.
The fifth in line to the throne is currently spending the summer in Africa, working on the front line of conservation with endangered animals.
“I’m absolutely delighted that the United States has taken up the challenge and will host the next Invictus Games in Orlando, Florida, from the 8th to the 12th of May 2016,” Harry said in the video, with his famous cheeky smile.
“I have no doubt that the USA will set the bar even higher than London did and put on a great show,” he laughed, adding, “No pressure!”
Quick to congratulate the 30-year-old was First Lady, Michelle Obama, who took to twitter to share her delight over the announcement.
“We are thrilled to welcome the #InvictusGames to Orlando next spring! #JoiningForces,” Michelle tweeted from her official account to her some 2.28 million followers.
Prince Harry with the British team at the 2014 games, which were held in London. No word whether William will be attending the event, but there’s no doubt he’ll be supporting his younger brother’s charitable endeavors in any capacity possible.
The Games are an international event designed to celebrate the achievements of servicemen, where wounded military veterans compete in Paralympic-style events.
Invictus, meaning unconquered, lived up to its name with the immense success of the inaugural event in London last year.
Harry went on to explain that Orlando won the opportunity to host the inspirational games because of its “outstanding” sporting facilities and its “great tourist infrastructure.”
Having recently left the British Royal Army after 10 years of service in June, the games hold a very special place in young royal’s heart.
“As I’ve continued to work with wounded servicemen and women, I regularly see the power of the soldiers’ stories to inspire others,” the prince said.
“For every competitor last September, there are hundreds of others around the world who would benefit from having the same opportunity. I wanted other cities and countries to look at the competition — what it meant to those taking part and those who saw it — and take up the challenge for the next Invictus Games.”
Ellie Goulding was one of the performers at the inaugural Invictus games… but we must admit we’d love to see young Prince George in Orlando with his uncle.
Last September, London hosted the event and welcomed more than 400 competitors from 13 nations in nine sports.
The sporting events included archery, athletics and wheelchair rugby, while the closing concert saw performances from Ellie Goulding and the Foo Fighters.
Harry’s charitable project of love was supported by those closest to him including the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, as well as his brother, William. At the time of the games, Catherine had just announced her second pregnancy and was suffering from severe morning sickness so she was unable to make it.
No word if Harry’s royal family will make the trip out to the States, but can you imagine the cheeky (and very cute) mischief Prince George would get up to?
Both George and Princess Charlotte will adore all the fun Orlando has to offer!
