WHAT IS SOCCER AID FOR UNICEF?
Soccer Aid for UNICEF is the world’s biggest celebrity charity football match, bringing the nation together to help protect play for every child.
Created by Robbie Williams in 2006, Soccer Aid for UNICEF harnesses the power of football and entertainment to raise vital funds for UNICEF’s work supporting children around the world to grow up safe, healthy and able to play.
On Sunday 31 May 2026, England will face the Soccer Aid World XI FC at London Stadium in an unmissable charity football match, cheered on by thousands of fans and broadcast live on ITV1, ITVX and STV.
Why Play Matters for Children
Play is at the heart of childhood. From football in the park to games powered by imagination, play helps children learn, explore and thrive. It builds confidence, creativity and resilience – giving children the freedom to be children. Children are an unstoppable force. They’re born ready to play.
But, for millions of children worldwide, the chance to play is under threat by things they can’t control. Conflict, disease and humanitarian emergencies can disrupt childhoods and take away safe spaces to play and learn.
Protecting play means protecting childhood itself.
How UNICEF Helps Children Worldwide
UNICEF works with local partners, communities and governments to support children and families in the most challenging circumstances. Funds raised through Soccer Aid for UNICEF help deliver vital programmes, including:
- Life-saving vaccines and healthcare in hard-to-reach communities
- Support for children displaced by conflict and disaster
- Safe spaces for children to play, learn and recover in emergencies
- Therapeutic food and crisis support for vulnerable families
These programmes help children survive, recover and rebuild their futures.
20 Years of Soccer Aid for UNICEF
Over the past two decades, Soccer Aid for UNICEF has raised more than £121 million for UNICEF’s work with children and families around the world. Millions of people across the UK have supported this UNICEF fundraising event — and the impact continues to grow.
How to Get Involved
On Sunday 31 May 2026, two all-star squads will take to the pitch once again, uniting sport, entertainment and purpose to raise vital funds for children in need.
When you buy tickets, watch the live show or donate, you become part of one big team – supporting UNICEF and its partners to create and protect safe spaces where children can play, learn and thrive.
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