THE INVICTUS flag has been raised at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) to welcome the 2027 Games.
This comes after Prince Harry, who founded the games for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans, congratulated Birmingham on becoming the host city and said the strong ties to the Armed Forces community made it a ‘formidable contender from the very start.’
The Government-backed proposal, which highlighted the Marston Green site as venue of choice, saw off competition from Washington DC, USA to oversee the eighth games.
Prince Harry, patron of the Invictus Games Foundation, said: “Congratulations to Birmingham, on winning the bid to host the Invictus Games 2027.
“Your city’s strong ties to the Armed Forces community made it a formidable contender from the very start. Over the years, we’ve seen each city bring a unique spirit and vision to life for competitors, their families, and spectators.
“We have no doubt the people of Birmingham will join in celebrating the unwavering respect and admiration we have for our veteran and service community, showing the world how their courage ignites hope and unites us all—something your city knows well.”
The result was announced at an unveiling event with Invictus Games Foundation chief executive, Dominic Reid, Defence Veterans minister Al Carns, and the Invictus Games bid 2027 chief executive Helen Helliwell at the NEC.
As well as raising the flag there were demonstrations of some of the sports that will be introduced to the 2027 Games including pickleball and Laser Run.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, deputy Leader at Solihull Council, said: “Congratulations to Birmingham on being the successful bidder for the 2027 Invictus Games.
“This is great news for the West Midlands, putting us on the map and showcasing the wonderful facilities at the NEC.
“I’m sure it will be a great success and look forward to welcoming participants and spectators to Solihull.
“I hope they get a chance to enjoy the rest of our borough while they are here as we have a number of vibrant town centres, our beautiful Armed Forces Community Garden, urban parks and picturesque villages to explore, each packed full of heritage and charm.”
The Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 will be held in July 2027, two years on from the upcoming Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, taking place next year in February.
Stephen ‘Hoops’ Hooper, Team UK captain for the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, said, “It’s awesome that the Invictus Games is coming to Birmingham.
“This will mean the world to Team UK, not only so their friends and family can watch them compete, but so the British public can cheer them on.
“Birmingham is a special place for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans, as they all come through here at some point.
“With support from the Royal British Legion for Team UK, Invictus has helped me embrace life again.
“As we prepare for Canada next year, it’s great to know the Games are coming home in 2027.”
