**Sam Thompson Smashes £100,000 Fundraising Target on Day One of Epic Soccer Aid Challenge**
Reality television favourite Sam Thompson has surpassed the extraordinary milestone of £100,000 raised on the very first day of his demanding Soccer Aid challenge, a feat combining endurance, charity, and sheer determination. Kicking off his five-day mission at Chelsea’s iconic Stamford Bridge, the 32-year-old is embarking on both marathon runs and lengthy cycling legs, all with the goal of delivering the match ball for this year’s Soccer Aid fixture at Old Trafford.
The challenge, which began in earnest on Monday morning, marks the start of a punishing 260-mile journey from the capital to Manchester. Thompson’s opening effort saw him run the full length of a marathon—26 miles in total—making his way north to Hemel Hempstead. Not content with that alone, he immediately followed this remarkable feat by cycling a further 23 miles, finally reaching his stage one finish line at Milton Keynes’ Stadium MK.
Reflecting on a gruelling first day, Thompson admitted the reality was even tougher than he’d expected. “The first day was genuinely terrifying—I never thought I’d get this far,” he revealed to the press at the finish. “I hadn’t anticipated just how tough it would be, but hearing the crowds as I reached the ground gave me such a boost. It moved me, genuinely.” He went on to explain that, although exhaustion and pain kicked in after the marathon, reassurance from his physiotherapy and medical team spurred him onwards.
Thompson’s commitment is rooted in humanitarian motivation, as the funds raised will directly support Unicef’s global work for disadvantaged children. “The reason I’m taking on this challenge is to help as many children as possible, and support Unicef’s incredible work in keeping children safe and healthy,” he commented. “That’s what this is all about, every step and every mile.” His resolve to finish remains steadfast, even as the scale of the physical effort becomes clear.
He was far from alone as he set out. Those cheering him on included immediate family members—his sister Louise Thompson, her partner Ryan Libbey, and his nephew Leo—as well as friends like comedian Joel Dommett, who joined him for the opening 20km. This sense of camaraderie and collective effort has been palpable at each stop along his route.
Renowned TV presenter Ben Shephard, who accompanied Thompson during part of his first cycling stint, praised his friend’s bravery. “Sam’s courage for tackling something of this magnitude is astonishing. I know from experience how punishing these ultra-events can be, both physically and mentally,” Shephard remarked. “His positivity and infectious energy will be put to the test, but I have absolute faith he’ll find the strength to finish.”
With day one complete, Thompson’s route will now wind on to Birmingham’s Villa Park, then Stoke-on-Trent’s Vale Park and Liverpool’s Goodison Park, before the final leg to Manchester. The entire journey will be broadcast on ITV’s This Morning and Hits Radio, giving viewers and listeners daily updates on his progress, culminating in a dramatic live finale on Friday 6 June at Old Trafford—just ahead of the Soccer Aid 2025 match.
These efforts are set to reach an even wider audience later in the year, with ITV1 airing a one-off documentary, ‘Sam Thompson’s Match Ball Mission’. The programme will offer viewers an intimate look at Thompson’s physical and emotional journey, and the children’s stories that motivate his mission.
Soccer Aid 2025 itself is fast approaching, scheduled for Sunday 15 June at Old Trafford and set to be aired live on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player. The event is expected to raise further vital funds for Unicef, helping to build on the momentum generated by Thompson’s inspiring challenge and the generous support of the British public.
The impact of such high-profile fundraising endeavours cannot be underestimated. In times of ongoing global challenges, stories like Thompson’s serve to remind us all of the difference one determined individual—and an engaged community—can make in support of children in need.