Before Prince Harry’s anticipated trip to the United Kingdom for the Invictus Games, a Royal family expert suggests that he will need to provide explanations upon his arrival in London. There is uncertainty surrounding Meghan Markle’s potential attendance alongside Prince Harry, especially given the recent news of King Charles and Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnoses within the Royal family.
Prince Harry is set to deliver a speech during a special service at St. Paul’s Cathedral on May 8. Royal biographer Tom Quinn believes Harry is likely to return to the UK, as skipping the ceremony could exacerbate his strained relationship with Prince William. Quinn stated to The Mirror that Harry will “certainly return” to the UK unless there is a significant upset.
The rift between Harry and William became apparent after Harry’s comments about the family in his memoir and Netflix series. While Harry visited the UK in February following King Charles’ publicized cancer diagnosis, it remains unclear if the Sussexes were aware of Kate’s health issues beforehand. Should Prince Harry opt out of attending the Invictus Games, it would suggest that he wants to avoid potential awkwardness in encountering Prince William or having to decide not to meet him, according to Quinn.
Quinn further asserts that it would be preferable for Harry to return to the UK than to skip meeting William altogether, even if it means a brief encounter or finding a pretext to return to the US to be with his children. Excuses for not having time to meet his brother and father, King Charles, would not likely be accepted. Regarding reducing tension, there are possibilities for Harry and Kate to interact with Prince William and Kate Middleton during the UK visit for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
Quinn suggests that extensive preparation will help minimize inevitable awkwardness. If Harry avoids meeting his brother and Kate, it could lead to more damaging speculation than if they attempt to reconcile enough to manage a brief encounter. While Kate and William desire a peaceful time with their children after her cancer diagnosis, Harry’s visit may potentially bring more tension and drama to the situation.