**Lee Mack Sidelined by Injury, Takes On New Role at This Year’s Soccer Aid Event**
Fans tuning in for the 2026 edition of Soccer Aid may notice the absence of one of the charity match’s most recognisable faces on the pitch. Lee Mack, known affectionately for his appearances as both a comedian and a TV presenter, will not be lacing up his boots when the teams take to Old Trafford this weekend. Instead, he is preparing to embrace a different role following an injury, marking a departure from the on-field antics that have endeared him to audiences in past fixtures.
Since its inaugural kick-off in 2006, Soccer Aid has become an annual highlight, drawing in celebrities and football legends alike, and amassing over £100 million for Unicef in the process. Mack himself has provided no shortage of memorable moments throughout his involvement. Notably, he scored a decisive penalty winner to secure victory for the World XI team in 2022, reinforcing his status as a fan favourite and a staple of this charity spectacle.
This year, however, the 56-year-old shared on *The Sports Agents* podcast with Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman that he will be sitting out the main event. While details of his new responsibilities remain somewhat under wraps, Mack suggested he may appear in a punditry role—a shift from his usual goal-scoring exploits. “Due to injury, I may be more in your role this year,” he quipped, addressing the podcast hosts, themselves seasoned in sports analysis. “It’s all to be confirmed,” he added with characteristic wit.
Pressed on the nature of his absence, Mack cited age as his perennial opponent: “I’m 57 this year. I’m always injured. It’s a default setting! You know, my injury is that I’m almost 57.” His light-hearted admission resonated with listeners, blending humour with the inevitable realities faced by veteran participants in such vigorous events.
Mack’s journey within Soccer Aid has been a tale of dual allegiances, having represented both England and World XI sides over the years. In 2021, he changed camps to the global team, noting his Irish heritage as the motivation for the swap. Speaking candidly, he said, “I thought, I quite fancy the change. I’ll share out the badness—no point giving it all to one side every year.” The switch was further dramatised by a mock sacking from former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson, an episode played out for humorous effect but underpinned by genuine affection.
Reminiscing about his interactions with Eriksson, who passed away in 2024, Mack described the experience as surreal and deeply enjoyable. “Sven was one of the greatest England managers we ever had,” he stated. “To have him give me football advice—it was like a dream come true! Wonderful man, though perhaps not a natural comedian. Take after take, we’d try to get the line right.”
As supporters anticipate the sold-out event at Manchester’s Theatre of Dreams, the player lists remain star-studded. This year’s World XI boasts names such as Nemanja Vidic, Carlos Tevez, and Leonardo Bonucci, alongside celebrity participants Martin Compston, Dermot Kennedy, and Bryan Habana. England’s side, meanwhile, will feature the talents of Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes, Joe Hart—and a smattering of high-profile personalities including Bear Grylls, Sir Mo Farah, and Louis Tomlinson.
While Mack’s charismatic presence will still be felt, his absence from the field marks a change for many who have enjoyed his comedic contributions both on and off the grass. As he transitions to his new role, his commitment to the cause remains unchanged, underlining the unique spirit of Soccer Aid—a compelling mélange of sport, laughter and philanthropy.
The event continues to be a significant force in charitable fundraising, blending the drama of professional sport with the unpredictability and entertainment of celebrity participation. All eyes will now be on Mack to see how he adapts to life behind the microphone, even as he takes a well-deserved break from centre stage.
With his inimitable humour and passion for the beautiful game, Lee Mack’s involvement—whatever its form—serves as a reminder that Soccer Aid is about much more than football. It’s a celebration of community, generosity, and the power of shared experiences to change lives.