Prince Harry breaks silence on UK trip as he 'prepares for the future' after King Charles snub

Prince Harry has issued a statement about his brief trip to the UK as he gave his "overwhelming gratitude" to his Invictus Games supporters.

The Duke of Sussex visited London earlier this week to take part in a number of engagements about the Invictus Games.

He had hoped to meet with King Charles during the trip, but the monarch was too busy to see his estranged son.

The Royal Family also snubbed Harry as he attended a service of thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral. Following the cold shoulder from his family, Harry took to his Sussex website to release a message about what he got up to in the UK.

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In the statement, the Duke of Sussex said he is "preparing for the future" as he gears up for next year's Invictus Games. The statement began: "This year marks the 10th Anniversary of The Invictus Games Foundation (IGF), a milestone defined by courage, resilience, and strength.

"Over the past few days, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, paid tribute to the foundation's legacy by participating in a series of events celebrating a decade of changing and saving lives through sport. Earlier this week, The Duke joined in conversation with former IGF Chairman Sir Keith Mills and CEO of Fisher House Foundation Ken Fisher.

"The group reflected on the inspiration behind establishing the first Games in 2014 and acknowledged the accomplishments of IGF in assisting thousands across the world who have given in service of their nations."

The message then detailed the service at St Paul's, where Harry gave a reading to more than 1,000 guests. While the Royal Family decided to snub the event, Harry was joined by Earl Charles Spencer and Lady Jane Fellowes, siblings of the late Princess Diana.

Harry's statement read: "The ceremony was a poignant gathering, with many references to recovery and rehabilitation by international wounded and sick service personnel and veterans."

Speaking about the Invictus Games, Harry added: "The Duke's vision has created more than just a series of sporting events; it has built a legacy that illustrates the power of connection in recovery. The Invictus Games embody compassion, respect, and a belief in the extraordinary capabilities of the human spirit.

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"This 10th Anniversary is not just a celebration of past accomplishments but a reaffirmation of the Games' enduring mission to inspire, support, and challenge perceptions about what can be achieved with hope and determination.

"On behalf of The Duke, we extend his overwhelming gratitude to all who make the Invictus Games possible. As we celebrate this decade of achievements, we also prepare for the future, particularly to the first winter hybrid Games in Vancouver Whistler next year, with anticipation and excitement."

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