2026 LINE UP

The nation’s favourite Troublemaker returns! A familiar face for Soccer Aid fans, singer Olly Murs will be back this year for the first time since 2021. Always a hit with the crowds, he’ll be lining up for the England squad with his characteristic fun and flair.

Legendary former England footballer Jill Scott proved that Lionesses are Queens of the Jungle too after winning I’m a Celebrity in 2022. First stepping up for the Three Lions at Soccer Aid 2023, the celebrated midfielder has demonstrated impressive skills to inspire teammates and fans alike every year since.

England icon and former Red Devil Wayne Rooney will be tying his laces as he returns to the Soccer Aid line up this summer. He’s ready to bring his passion and quality to the pitch as he looks to help England secure victory over the World XI.

Leading the line for the Three Lions, former England striker Jermain Defoe steps in with the natural finishing that made him one of the Premier League’s most reliable goal scorers. Known for his composure in front of goal, he’ll be looking to add to his record as Soccer Aid’s top scorer this summer.

Award winning Adolescence star Owen Cooper is set to make history this summer as the youngest player ever to appear in a Soccer Aid match. With a Golden Globe and an Emmy already to his name, he now turns his attention to the pitch, hoping to help the Three Lions lift the Soccer Aid trophy at the London Stadium.

Making his Soccer Aid debut this year, retired rugby star Joe Marler is no stranger to representing his country and will bring all his power and presence to the role of England goalkeeper. Most recently seen on the Celebrity Traitors, he promises to be a Faithful pair of hands for the Three Lions.

We’re thrilled to be welcoming back former Italy captain Leonardo Bonucci to the pitch once again. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, Bonucci will be key to the Soccer Aid World XI’s hopes of defending their title after 2025’s victory over the Three Lions.

Beloved Irish actor and comedian Chris O’Dowd makes his Soccer Aid debut this summer, lining up in goal for the World XI. Famous for his iconic roles in The IT Crowd and Bridesmaids, he’ll be hoping his sharp wit translates into equally sharp reactions between the sticks as he looks to play his part in the World XI’s title defence against the Three Lions.

Award-winning comedian – and self-confessed football fanatic – Maisie Adam is quick with her wits which pays off on the pitch. Once again stepping up for the Soccer Aid World XI, this is her fourth year in the squad

When it comes to Nitro, speed really does meet strength. A former Team GB sprinter turned star of Gladiators (with a dazzling turn on the Strictly dance floor), Nitro got his name from being a bundle of energy – which will come in handy on the pitch when he laces up his boots for the Soccer Aid World XI.

Making his debut for Soccer Aid’s World XI, former European champion and Spanish superstar Jordi Alba arrives with the same explosive pace and razor-sharp link-up play that made him a Barcelona legend. With his lightning runs down the wing, he’ll be looking to cause real problems for the England players.

Two-time World Cup champion Ali Krieger will make her Soccer Aid debut this summer. A defensive leader with over 100 caps for the USWNT, she’s known for her fierce competitiveness and commanding presence at the back. Her winning mentality will be crucial in helping the World XI push for victory at London Stadium.

As if holding 8 Olympic gold medals wasn’t enough, Soccer Aid legend Usain Bolt has also lifted the cup as captain of the World XI on more than one occasion. Making a welcome return this year, he’s joining the coaching team for the first time – where the record-breaking sprinter can teach his team the meaning of ‘quick footwork’.