Sam Thompson’s Inspiring Soccer Aid Challenge Raises £1.5m for UNICEF

Introduction: A Reality Star’s Mission for Charity

Reality TV star Sam Thompson has begun a challenge to run and cycle 260 miles in order to deliver the match ball for Soccer Aid 2025. The British television personality and radio presenter from London, who won the 23rd series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, took on this ambitious challenge to raise funds for UNICEF. This story highlights Thompson’s dedication to charitable causes and the significant impact of celebrity-driven fundraising campaigns in addressing critical humanitarian needs.

The Match Ball Mission Challenge

The 32-year-old will travel from Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium in London, the location of last year’s charity match in aid of Unicef, to Manchester United’s Old Trafford home, which will host the 2025 game that Thompson is due to play in. Beginning on June 2 and finishing on June 6, Sam will need to run a marathon a day, as well as cycle, to ensure the the Soccer Aid for UNICEF match ball is delivered ahead of kick-off on Sunday June 15 from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford, this year’s venue, more than 260 miles away!

The journey proved incredibly demanding for Thompson, who admitted his lack of athletic preparation. 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, which saw him run and cycle a total of 260 miles. Sam revealed: “I’ve torn it, I’ve torn the calf, which is awesome but after the first one [marathon] I was like I don’t know how I’m gonna do this but we are on day three.”

Remarkable Fundraising Success

Despite the physical challenges, Thompson’s efforts resulted in exceptional fundraising success. His Match Ball Mission has raised more than £1.5 million for Unicef. The campaign captured public attention, with donations pouring in throughout his journey. Sam broke down in tears after Pete revealed the latest tally of donations, announcing Sam has raised over £337,000 since he started his ‘Match Ball Mission’ on Monday.

Personal Updates and New Chapter

Thompson’s charitable endeavour comes during a year of personal change. He was in a relationship with Zara McDermott for 5 years until January 2025. More recently, Sam Thompson confirmed he’s got a girlfriend on the latest episode of his podcast with Pete Wicks, announcing his relationship with Talitha is a London-based producer and DJ who’s making her mark in the UK’s electronic music scene after graduating from the University of Bristol in 2023.

Conclusion: Impact Beyond the Challenge

Sam Thompson’s Match Ball Mission exemplifies how celebrity influence can mobilise significant charitable support for urgent humanitarian causes. Dr Philip Goodwin, chief executive officer for UNICEF UK, said: “We’re so proud of Sam for taking on this immense challenge raising funds for UNICEF – a first for the Soccer Aid for Unicef campaign and at a crucial time for children.” Thompson’s determination to complete the challenge despite serious injury demonstrates commitment that resonates with supporters and amplifies awareness of UNICEF’s vital work protecting vulnerable children worldwide. His achievement sets a powerful precedent for future celebrity-led fundraising initiatives.