The CEO of the Invictus Games in Birmingham has expressed hope that both Prince Harry and King Charles will attend the event for wounded servicemen and women.
However, Helen Helliwell acknowledged that "it's too soon to confirm who's going to be there."
"We would be delighted if the Duke were able to come," she told People magazine.
"He really brings a magical sparkle dust to his interactions, and there is a really special relationship with him and the community."
King Charles and Prince Harry last met each other in February 2024.PAShe noted that members of the Royal Family have been "supporters of the Armed Forces" and "supporters of Invictus since inception in 2014."
"We'd be delighted if members of the Royal Family were able to attend and would very much welcome their presence in a couple of years' time," Helliwell added.
The Invictus Games will return to the UK for the first time since their 2014 inception, with Birmingham hosting the eighth iteration of the adaptive sports competition in 2027.
Helliwell confirmed that more than £4.4 million in commercial backing has already been secured for the event, which will welcome 550 athletes from 20 nations.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at the Vancouver Whistler Invictus Games in 2025.
GettyThe competition for wounded, injured and sick armed forces members and veterans was created by Prince Harry in 2014.
Organisers are now launching a Champions Programme to attract support from smaller, local companies alongside major commercial partners.
The Birmingham games will introduce several new sports to broaden the competition's appeal and accessibility.
Pickleball and laser run will join the roster, with the latter described by Helliwell as being "like a biathlon, where you shoot at a target, then you run or wheel around a track, depending on your adaptive needs."
Prince William and King Charles at the Invictus Games in 2014.PALATEST ROYAL NEWS:
King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in 2014.
PA
E-sports will also feature for the first time. "We hope that will bring a new audience," Helliwell said.
The additions aim to modernise the competition whilst maintaining its core mission of supporting wounded veterans through adaptive sport.
Birmingham's selection as host city reflects its deep military connections, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, which treats wounded service members and the Royal College of Defence Medicine, where military medics train.
An Invictus Games flag is currently travelling the globe aboard a British ship with the carrier strike group, with crews "having some fun with it and taking it to some interesting places," according to Helliwell.
Plans for the opening and closing ceremonies are already underway. "Imagine your big pop concert, but with all the military pizazz," Helliwell said, noting Vancouver's lineup included Katy Perry, Coldplay and Jelly Roll.