In a surprising twist, Dominic Reed, who has been at the helm of the Invictus Games Foundation for many years, has stepped down from his role.
This unexpected resignation comes on the heels of considerable backlash aimed at Prince Harry, particularly regarding his acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the upcoming 2024 ESPY Awards.
The award, designed to recognize outstanding contributions to the military community, has ignited controversy, especially concerning Harry’s association with it.
In a heartfelt message, Harry extended his sincere thanks to Reed, highlighting his crucial contributions in elevating the Invictus Games to a worldwide phenomenon.
Reed’s exit has not only raised eyebrows but also sparked speculation about the underlying reasons behind his decision to resign.
Harry lauded Reed’s unwavering commitment and leadership, noting how his relentless efforts over the past decade have significantly aided thousands of wounded, injured, and sick service members through sports rehabilitation.
Harry expressed, “I’m immensely grateful to my friend Dominic, whose dedication and leadership transformed the Invictus Games from an ambitious idea to an internationally recognized movement.” Reed’s resignation, which came shortly after the ESPY Awards, underscores a growing divide between the charity’s established leadership and Prince Harry himself.
Reed has been a key player in shaping the Invictus Games Foundation since its inception, and he characterized his resignation as a strategic choice meant to pave the way for new leadership to steer the organization into its next chapter.
“It’s time for someone new to take this vital movement forward into its second vigorous decade,” Reed stated.
Even though he is stepping away from his official duties, Reed remains dedicated to supporting the foundation and will continue his involvement in other initiatives, including his role as pageant master of The Lord Mayor’s Show.
Reflecting on his decade-long journey, Reed remarked, “Once a member of the Invictus family, you never leave.” He proudly noted that he has fulfilled the ten-year vision he originally set out, which included the introduction of winter sports—an initiative close to his heart as a former biathlete.
The timing of Reed’s resignation aligns with heightened scrutiny surrounding Prince Harry’s actions, particularly his decision to accept the Pat Tillman Award.
Detractors argue that this acceptance undermines the integrity of the Invictus Games, suggesting that Harry’s actions have turned the charity into a platform for personal gain rather than genuine service to veterans.
Some critics contend that the organization, once a noble endeavor aimed at supporting injured personnel, is now being exploited for public relations purposes.
There are allegations that Reed’s resignation may be tied to his discontent with Harry’s acceptance of the award.
The idea that Harry might have leveraged the award for his own benefit has stirred controversy, leading some to believe that Reed’s departure could be seen as a form of protest against what he views as a misappropriation of the charity for personal advantage.
Many feel that the award should have been directed towards organizations like the Invictus Games or the Warrior Games, rather than being used to enhance Harry’s public image.
Since its establishment in 2014, the Invictus Games have been praised for their role in empowering wounded veterans to showcase their strength and resilience.
However, recent developments have raised concerns about the organization being overshadowed by personal agendas.
Critics assert that the ongoing focus on Harry and Meghan Markle‘s public personas detracts from the charity’s primary mission.
