Sam Thompson, celebrated for his triumph in “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!”, is set to grace the Soccer Aid field, marking his inaugural participation in the 2024 event as part of the England team. The event, aimed at raising funds for Unicef, is poised to welcome Thompson and a cohort of newcomers to Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge in June.
At 31, the ex-Made In Chelsea personality, who resides in the vicinity of the iconic stadium, has described his selection as the realization of a lifelong ambition. Joining him in their first Soccer Aid appearances are Bobby Brazier, a finalist on Strictly Come Dancing, and Erin Doherty from The Crown, among others.
Thompson, a fervent Chelsea supporter, shared his excitement about transitioning from a spectator to a participant on the field at Stamford Bridge, a place steeped in personal significance and childhood memories. He expressed disbelief and exhilaration at the prospect of being managed by Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, highlighting the surreal nature of the experience.
Brazier, at 20, echoed the sentiment of excitement and privilege at being part of such a significant cause, humorously speculating on how his dance training might serve him on the soccer field against renowned athletes like Usain Bolt.
The event will also see the return of familiar faces to the England team, including Jill Scott, Paddy McGuinness, Tom Grennan, Steven Bartlett, Sir Mo Farah, and Alex Brooker. Joining them will be newcomers Thompson, Doherty, and Brazier.
The Soccer Aid World XI FC team is set to feature returning stars such as Usain Bolt, Maisie Adam, Roman Kemp, Lee Mack, and Tommy Fury, with Robbie Williams, a co-founder of Soccer Aid, joining this year’s England management team.
Since its inception in 2006, England has claimed victory five times, with their last win in 2018. Conversely, the Soccer Aid World XI FC team has triumphed seven times, currently boasting a five-year winning streak.
This year’s Soccer Aid event, set to be broadcast on ITV1, STV, and ITVX, will be hosted by Unicef UK ambassador Dermot O’Leary and sports presenter Alex Scott. Commentary will be provided by Sam Matterface, with Iain Stirling also contributing. The England team will don a Euro 96 inspired kit, while their opponents will wear a special edition Adidas kit.
Anticipation builds as more celebrities are expected to be announced in the lead-up to the event, with a half-time entertainment show also in the works. The match is scheduled for June 9, promising a blend of entertainment, sport, and philanthropy.
