Soccer Aid 2026 is set to make history as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a star-studded lineup and a charity match for UNICEF, scheduled for Sunday, May 31 at London Stadium. The event will bring together over 33 celebrities and athletes from the worlds of music, sports, and entertainment, marking a significant milestone for the charity initiative.

Charitable Legacy and Record-Breaking Funds

Since its inception in 2006, Soccer Aid has raised more than £121 million for UNICEF, which provides clean water, healthcare, education, and safe spaces for children in crisis. This year, organizers hope to break last year’s fundraising record, which was the highest in the event’s history.

Robbie Williams, the co-founder of Soccer Aid, will manage the England team for the first time, facing off against Usain Bolt, who will lead the World XI. Williams expressed his pride in the event’s milestone, stating, ‘I’m incredibly proud to be celebrating 20 years of Soccer Aid for UNICEF. It’s one of the most important things to me.’

Star-Studded Lineup and New Faces

The 2026 lineup includes returning celebrities and athletes such as Leonardo Bonucci, Jermain Defoe, Jill Scott, and Theo Walcott, as well as newcomers like 16-year-old Owen Cooper, who will be the youngest player ever to participate. Other debutants include Damson Idris, Joe Marler, and comedian GK Barry, who joked that she is ‘ready to embarrass herself for charity.’

Tom Hiddleston will make his third appearance, while singer Olly Murs returns after knee surgery. Murs said, ‘I love everything about Soccer Aid. Raising money for such an amazing cause is by far the best part.’

Usain Bolt, who won three gold medals at the London 2012 Olympics, teased, ‘Everyone knows my record at the London Stadium. See you in May, Robbie.’

Event Details and Fan Experience

The match will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX, with a special half-time show and a pre-game fan zone for ticket holders. Hosts Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott will lead the event, which is expected to follow a traditional late-afternoon or early-evening start time, although the exact kickoff time has not been officially announced.

UNICEF UK CEO Philip Goodwin emphasized the importance of the event, stating, ‘For twenty years, Soccer Aid has united fans, players and communities around one shared goal, to make sure every child can grow up safe, healthy and able to play. Every ticket bought helps protect play for children everywhere.’

With a unique blend of celebrity and athletic talent, Soccer Aid 2026 promises to be a memorable event for fans and participants alike, continuing its legacy of supporting children in need through the power of football and entertainment.