Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2026: Full Line-Up Revealed for 20th Anniversary Clash
Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2026: Full Line-Up Revealed for 20th Anniversary Clash
The full line-up for the 2026 edition of Soccer Aid for UNICEF has been confirmed today, as the world’s biggest charity football match celebrates its 20th anniversary with a blockbuster return to the London Stadium.
The England versus Soccer Aid World XI fixture has raised a staggering £121 million for UNICEF since its inception, and organisers are hoping this year’s contest will push that total even higher.
The 2026 showpiece will see co-founder Robbie Williams take charge of England from the dugout, while the World XI will be led by the fastest man on the planet, Usain Bolt — returning to a stadium etched into his legacy following his unforgettable 2012 Olympic triumphs.
The match will be broadcast live on ITV1 and streamed on ITVX.
England Squad Confirmed So Far
With more names expected closer to kick-off, England’s squad already blends footballing royalty with star power from sport and entertainment.
Manager:
Robbie Williams
Goalkeepers:
Joe Hart
Joe Marler
Paddy McGuinness
Outfield Players:
GK Barry
Alex Brooker
Owen Cooper
Jermain Defoe
Toni Duggan
Angry Ginge
Tom Grennan
Tom Hiddleston
Steph Houghton
Damson Idris
Olly Murs
Jordan North
Wayne Rooney
Jill Scott
Sam Thompson
Theo Walcott
Former England captain Wayne Rooney said the competitive spirit remains fierce despite the charitable focus.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Rooney said:
“You want to win. And I think the other celebrities outside of football bring that competitiveness to it because they want to win. It’s a massive occasion for them.
“And it’d be like me going and singing on stage in front of however many thousand people — you want to do well.
“For all of them, they want to win. So that brings that edge to it. The matchday, everyone’s a little bit anxious. And you’re nervous for it.
“But then the build-up to that, it’s great fun. Everyone’s together and sharing different stories and having a good time.”
Soccer Aid World XI Confirmed So Far
Managed by Usain Bolt, the Rest of the World squad is shaping up to be formidable.
Manager:
Usain Bolt
Goalkeeper:
Edwin van der Sar
Outfield Players:
Jordi Alba
Maisie Adam
Jen Beattie
Leonardo Bonucci
Richard Gadd
Ali Krieger
Nitro
Big Zuu
With global icons and elite former professionals in the ranks, the World XI will be aiming to spoil England’s anniversary party.
Ticket Information
Soccer Aid for UNICEF returns to London this May at the London Stadium. Organisers have confirmed that under-16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Supporters can purchase up to three concession (under-16) tickets per adult ticket.
As anticipation builds for the landmark 20th anniversary match, the combination of sporting legends, household names and a world-class cause ensures that 2026’s Soccer Aid promises to be one of the biggest yet.
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