The Invictus Games are set to take the world stage once again as Canada prepares to host the 2025 edition from February 8 to 16. This year’s games, held across the breathtaking surroundings of Vancouver and Whistler, bring together competitors from all over the globe to showcase the power of sport as a means of recovery and rehabilitation for injured military personnel.
What makes this iteration of the Invictus Games particularly special is its unique blend of winter and summer sports. For the first time, the event will feature disciplines ranging from Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, and Nordic Skiing to indoor sports like wheelchair rugby and basketball. Over 500 athletes will compete, with 56 representing Team Canada, all aiming for camaraderie and empowerment rather than simply the medal count.
Jeremy Janssens from Meaford, Ontario, will participate for Team Canada in swimming and sitting volleyball, marking his first entry at the Invictus Games. After training diligently for six days each week since July, he expressed, “This is probably the most serious I’ve taken it in a long time because now I have a goal.” Upon visiting the UBC Aquatic Centre, where the swimming events will take place, Janssens shared his excitement: “I’m not nervous anymore, more excited, now I’ve seen the venue and know physically I can do it.”
Founded by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, the Invictus Games have been instrumental since their inception in 2014, aimed at improving the lives of injured and sick military personnel through the spirit of sport. Harry's connection to the event stems from his own military service, deeply motivating him to create a platform for healing and growth for veterans. “The Invictus movement started back in 2014. It’s a sporting platform used for the rehabilitation and support for wounded soldiers, serving and veterans,” he stated.
This year, the games promise not only competitive excellence but also powerful moments of connection among participants. “This is all about recovery through sports and teamwork,” said Janssens, who along with other competitors cherishes the opportunity to connect with fellow service members who understand their experiences of injury and recovery.
Team Canada’s approach is welcoming. Each athlete is encouraged to apply to join, emphasizing inclusivity and support for everyone who wishes to compete. Janssens, who applied multiple times before being accepted, was thrilled when he finally received the nod: “I started crying, I’m going to wear my country’s flag, I’m going to be able to represent Canada on a different scale.” This emotional aspect of the games is echoed by many participants, who see the event as more than just competition—it is about shared experiences and mutual support.
Supporting these athletes is the True Patriot Love Foundation, along with the Canadian Forces’ Soldier On program, both dedicated to facilitating recovery through sport. Janssens highlighted their commitment: “True Patriot Love was bending over backwards for us to make this work,” referencing their efforts to secure venues and support for the competitors.
Team Ukraine will also play a pivotal role this year, with its largest contingent ever at the Invictus Games, comprising 35 veterans who are also overcoming physical and emotional injuries from the current conflict. Ilona Voloshyna, Team Manager of Team Ukraine, remarked, “Our goal is to show resilience and provide our competitors with the best possible experience on their journeys to recovery.”
On February 8, the opening ceremony at B.C. Place will mark the official start of the 2025 Invictus Games, overwhelming audiences with performances from global stars including Katy Perry, Chris Martin of Coldplay, and Canadian Nelly Furtado. Anticipation is building not only for the events themselves but also for the cultural festivities and camaraderie they will inspire.
TransLink, the regional transit authority, is enhancing its services during the games to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors. They are providing additional staff and improving transit accessibility to help spectators navigate to and from the venues.
Fans can take advantage of the Invictus Village set up between the Vancouver Convention Centre and Canada Place, which will feature booths, concessions, and daily programming from 11 am to 7 pm. It will be open longer on select dates for broadcast events.
The Invictus Games Vancouver and Whistler 2025 promise to be historic, celebrating not only athletic prowess but also the resilience and unyielding spirit of service members from across the globe. From emotional narratives to exciting competitions, the games symbolize hope, recovery, and unity. Canadians and visitors alike are invited to partake, support, and cheer for their favorite teams as they embrace this impactful occasion.