Prince Harry says ‘life has dramatically changed’ in Invictus Games speech

Prince Harry recently celebrated son Archie’s first birthday by filming Meghan Markle reading him a story in their new home of Los Angeles.

Now, the Duke of Sussex, 35, has acknowledged in a new speech that “life has changed dramatically for all of us”.

The royal made the comment in a video shared on Twitter to mark what would have been the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games at The Hague in the Netherlands, which has been postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to the camera in front of a plain wall while wearing a casual black top, he said: “As we commemorate VE Day this weekend and pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the entire Second World War generation, we should have also been gathering together in the Netherlands to kickstart the Invictus Games 2020 in The Hague.

Read more: Hidden detail as Meghan read to Archie in first birthday video

“Life has changed dramatically for all of us since I was last in The Hague, but the IG 2020 team has done an incredible job to adapt so quickly to the situation, and they are busy putting plans in place for next year.

“The new dates will be shared with you very soon. I hope that all of those in the Invictus family are coping well and supporting each other through this challenging time.”

Harry noted in the clip - which was posted on the Invictus Games Foundation’s official account - that he had heard “amazing” stories of families coming together in lockdown, but urged people to “look out for those that have gone quiet”.

He added: “You guys are the best at this, so I have no doubt that you're all rallying around and supporting one another.

Read more: Prince William and Kate mark Archie's first birthday with throwback photo

“Although we can't be together in person, I'm really happy that there are plenty of virtual activities planned for this week, and I encourage you all to get involved if you can, because you never know, it might be fun and a change from the norm.

“Throughout this week, we will be seeing and hearing from many Invictus competitors, their experience and resilience in dealing with mental health challenges is something we could all learn lessons from.”

The duke’s speech pointed viewers in the direction of “virtual activities” the organisation will be holding over the coming days.

Normally, the competition will bring together current and former wounded, injured or sick servicemen and women from more than 20 countries.

Read more: Was Archie's birth the clearest signal Harry and Meghan would quit as senior royals?

Harry’s video has received more than 2,600 ‘likes’ with more than 350 comments.

One person wrote: “Great to see you Harry and thank you for your caring speech.”

Another commented: “Thank you to Prince Harry and everyone involved in @WeAreInvictus.”

A third shared: “Lovely message of support from Harry!”

And a fourth added: “Keep doing your thing Harry! We are here to support you.”