From Vancouver to Birmingham: The Next Chapter for the Invictus Games
The Invictus Games 2025, hosted in Vancouver Whistler, concluded with a poignant and symbolic ceremony, marking the official handover of the Invictus Games flag to Birmingham, UK, the host city for the 2027 Games. The closing ceremony, held at Rogers Arena, was attended by Team competitors, Royal British Legion staff, their friends and families, alongside the Patron of the Games, the Duke of Sussex, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 CEO Helen Helliwell, and thousands of spectators who came together to honour the incredible achievements of participants from across the globe. The event encapsulated the spirit of resilience, camaraderie, and international co-operation that defines the Invictus Games, celebrating the unwavering determination of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans, and also aided their journey to recovery through the power of sport.
As part of the ceremonial proceedings, the Invictus Games flag was formally handed from Team Canada to Team UK, to signify the transition to Birmingham 2027. However, whilst Birmingham may have official possession of the flag, the two nations are collaborating to spotlight an international journey of the Invictus Flag - to amplify the global significance of the Games, along with highlighting the enduring partnership between the allied nations. The flag’s journey begins with the Canadian Navy, who are visiting the UK before joining Carrier Strike Group 25 (CSG25). They will bring the flag across the Atlantic, and once received by the Royal Navy, the flag will embark on an extraordinary journey around the world as part of CSG25; visiting numerous countries and carrying a powerful message of resilience, strength, and unity.
The Invictus Games Flag is handed to Birmingham, UK for the 2027 event.
Helen Helliwell, CEO of Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, expressed her pride as the preparation for the next event begins: “The Invictus Games represent the very best of resilience, determination and the unconquerable human spirit, and I am thrilled to play a leading role in the Games’ journey to Birmingham. These games are not just about competition; they are about hope, recovery, and the strength we find in coming together to support those who have sacrificed so much, and to inspire people from around the globe to focus on what we can do and not what we can not, creating lasting impact and legacy as we go”.
Receiving the flag on behalf of Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 was Minister for Veterans and People and MP for Birmingham Selly Oak Al Carns, who commented: “Many of us, especially those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, have come back to Birmingham for treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, playing a key role in their recovery. For them, to return to Birmingham, and to take part in the next games, will complete their journey to recovery. The Invictus Games is not just about courage, it’s about the continuation of service for individuals who are given the opportunity to once again serve and represent a country”.
Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, responded to the official handover with glowing enthusiasm, saying, “Birmingham is a city built on resilience, diversity, and unity, and we are immensely proud to host the Invictus Games in 2027. Our city is ready to celebrate these incredible competitors and their stories, showcasing the very best of what community and perseverance can achieve”.
As Birmingham prepares to host the Invictus Games 2027, it seeks to build upon the successes of Vancouver Whistler 2025 by leveraging its rich cultural heritage, dynamic community spirit, and world-class facilities. The Birmingham edition of the Invictus Games will spotlight the profound impact of sports in the participants rehabilitation journeys, celebrate their friends and families and bring communities together in a festival atmosphere of encouragement and inclusion. The Invictus Games in Birmingham 2027 will also create impact for adaptive sport, art and employment for our Armed Forces communities before the Games begin, and build the legacy and inspiration that will extend far beyond Birmingham and reach around the globe.