The Duchess of Sussex has arrived in the UK for the first time in four years, but opted out of attending an official event for Prince Harry’s cherished Invictus Games today.

Meghan, aged 44, was initially scheduled to accompany Harry at the one-year countdown celebration at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre. Despite landing in the UK with their children Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, aged five, she was absent from this morning’s gathering.

According to a source close to the couple, the duchess skipped the event due to security concerns arising from the family’s lack of police protection. Instead, it is believed that she and the children stayed at Althorp in Northants, owned by Harry’s uncle Earl Spencer and the burial place of his late mother, Princess Diana.

This setback follows Harry’s recent legal defeat against Associated Newspapers and the rejection of his request to stay at Buckingham Palace. Despite these challenges, Harry participated in today’s event at the NEC, showcasing new sports that will feature in the upcoming Invictus Games, such as pickleball, laser run, and hybrid athletics.

While Meghan was absent, Harry actively engaged in the event, cheering on fellow veterans and participating in various sports demonstrations. He displayed his commitment to the Invictus community and expressed gratitude to the attendees for their ongoing support.

Looking ahead, next year’s Invictus Games in Birmingham will host 550 competitors from 25 nations in 12 adaptive events. The games not only serve as a competition but also offer a recovery pathway for wounded service personnel and veterans through sport, aiding in their physical and emotional rehabilitation.

Meghan is expected to avoid public appearances during her UK visit, focusing on private family gatherings. This includes a potential reunion between King Charles and his grandchildren, whom he has not seen for several years. Relations between the King and Harry have reportedly been strained since the Sussexes’ decision to step back from royal duties in 2020.

Harry, now residing in Montecito, lost his taxpayer-funded security after relocating to the US and faced challenges in securing protection for his UK visit. Despite these obstacles, he remains dedicated to his philanthropic efforts, including championing the Invictus Games and promoting the well-being of veterans and service personnel.