Sam Thompson: From Soccer Aid Hero to New Romance – A Year of Transformation

Sam Thompson’s Remarkable Charity Achievement

Reality television star Sam Thompson has captured public attention throughout 2025 with his extraordinary charitable efforts and personal life developments. Sam Thompson has revealed that he has pulled out of competing in Soccer Aid 2025 after injuring himself in his Match Ball Mission challenge. Despite the setback, his Match Ball Mission has raised more than £1.5 million for Unicef.

The Match Ball Mission Challenge

In June 2025, the 32-year-old undertook a challenge to run and cycle 260 miles in order to deliver the match ball for Soccer Aid 2025, travelling from Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium in London to Manchester United’s Old Trafford home. The former Made in Chelsea star demonstrated remarkable determination, running a marathon a day, as well as cycling, to ensure the Soccer Aid for UNICEF match ball was delivered ahead of kick-off.

After training on Friday (June 13), Sam revealed he had to step down as a player in Soccer Aid this year because of an injury he sustained during his five-day Soccer Aid challenge. Despite sustaining a torn calf muscle during the challenge, Thompson’s resilience and commitment to the cause inspired donations from across the country.

New Beginnings in Personal Life

Thompson’s personal life has also seen significant changes this year. Sam Thompson made a return to social media following reports of his split from girlfriend Zara McDermott after five years together, as the pair reportedly ended their relationship after growing apart during a challenging year. The split occurred in late 2024, with the couple spending the festive period apart.

However, romance has blossomed once again for the television personality. Sam Thompson confirmed he’s got a girlfriend on the latest episode of his podcast with Pete Wicks – Talitha Balinska. Talitha is a London-based producer and DJ who’s making her mark in the UK’s electronic music scene, and is also a fashion and lifestyle influencer with over 500k followers on TikTok and 170k on Instagram.

Significance for Fans and Charity Work

Thompson’s journey throughout 2025 demonstrates the power of celebrity influence for charitable causes. His Match Ball Mission not only raised substantial funds for UNICEF but also brought attention to the organisation’s vital work supporting children worldwide. As the I’m A Celebrity winner continues to leverage his platform for good whilst navigating personal changes, he remains a prominent figure in British entertainment, showing resilience in both his charitable endeavours and personal life. His story resonates with audiences who appreciate authentic personalities willing to push themselves for meaningful causes.