The Invictus Germany Sports Festival 2026 continues the legacy of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023. From 12 to 14 June 2026, veterans, deployed soldiers, their families and international guests will meet at Castello Düsseldorf to compete in four sports and experience community. In addition to the competitions, the focus will be on topics such as inclusion, rehabilitation and social recognition. The aim of the festival is to visibly place veterans at the centre of society and build bridges between the Bundeswehr, civil society and international partners. The 2026 festival thus sends a strong signal for respect, cohesion and sustainable responsibility.
Date & location: 12–14 June 2026, Castello Düsseldorf
Sports: Indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, spinning, table tennis
Participation: Participants from Germany and other Invictus Community nations, blue light organisations, veterans and their families are invited.
Public participation: Spectators are welcome, visiting opportunities are open; awards ceremonies and meetings complement the festival.
The Invictus Germany Sports Festival 2026 will be more than just a sporting event: it embodies a movement that has grown out of gratitude, respect and solidarity. It signals that the legacy of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 lives on. It helps to anchor veterans and those injured in service not only in special circles, but in the consciousness of society as a whole. Furthermore, it lays the foundation for future events where sport, inclusion, rehabilitation and public awareness go hand in hand. A movement where every step counts – for the participation of all, for shared hope, for respect in action.
Raising the profile of veterans and wounded service personnel: Once again, the festival aims to ensure that former soldiers and wounded service personnel are not just participants, but are brought into the public eye – with their stories, achievements and needs. Social recognition and respect are the focus.
Rehabilitation and participation through sport: Sport is used as a means of physical and psychological rehabilitation. Competitions and exchange programmes enable participants to train their skills, strengthen their self-confidence and gain new impetus for recovery and resilience. The face of sport should be inclusive and accessible.
Continuity & sustainable legacy: The 2024 festivals and the 2025 awards have set the stage. In 2026, the movement is to be further consolidated: regular formats, clearly defined structures and cooperation with institutions (e.g. the British Armed Forces, emergency services, health and rehabilitation facilities) strengthen the network.
Experience international exchange and community: As with the first festival in 2024, participants from several nations are expected to attend. The international character promotes understanding across national borders and underlines shared values: camaraderie, courage and solidarity.
Focus on four sports: As in 2024, four sports will be the focus in 2026. This selection allows us to concentrate on quality, organise logistics efficiently and, at the same time, offer a variety of events that take different physical abilities into account.
Contributing to social awareness: The festival not only offers competitions, but also accompanying programmes such as panels, lectures and information stands on topics such as inclusion, mental health, rehabilitation after service injuries and reintegration. The aim is to break down prejudices and raise public awareness that veterans are part of the mainstream of society.
Enabling engagement and participation: Not only athletes, but also relatives, helpers, blue-light organisations and supporters should be actively involved, e.g. through visiting opportunities, honorary positions, workshops or support services. This creates community on many levels.