Sam Thompson’s inspiring yet painful journey to Soccer Aid 2025 has taken a dramatic turn as the former Made In Chelsea star has been forced to withdraw from the charity match due to a torn calf muscle. The 32-year-old, who embarked on a grueling 260-mile fundraising challenge from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford, battled through intense physical and emotional hurdles to raise over £1.5 million for UNICEF. However, just days before the much-anticipated match at Old Trafford on Sunday, June 15, 2025, Thompson confirmed on Friday’s episode of This Morning that he will no longer be able to take to the pitch.
Thompson’s injury, sustained during his epic endurance run and bike trek, left him unable to run or compete in the chaotic nature of competitive football. “I can kick a ball from a standing start, but when it comes to like general chaos of playing competitive sport there’s just no way,” he admitted. Despite his disappointment, Thompson will remain involved as part of the England management team, joining the likes of Vicky McClure, Tyson Fury, and Harry Redknapp on the sidelines. “They were very kind and said we still want you to be a part of it, so I get to join the dark side with Tyson Fury,” he joked during the interview.
The drama surrounding Thompson’s withdrawal is intensified by his recent awkward encounters with Louis Tomlinson, the One Direction singer who is not only a fellow England squad member but also the new partner of Thompson’s ex-girlfriend, Zara McDermott. The pair met face-to-face during training sessions on Thursday and Friday at Soccer Aid HQ in Tring, Hertfordshire, where attempts to avoid eye contact were notable. Body language expert Judi James analyzed their interaction, noting that Thompson’s upbeat, “showboating” demeanor contrasted with Tomlinson’s more introverted and watchful stance. James suggested that while both men appeared as “good guys,” their non-verbal “ignore” only drew more attention to the tension between them.
Thompson and McDermott’s breakup in December 2024 ended a five-year relationship, with McDermott publicly moving on with Tomlinson by March 2025. The couple has since enjoyed romantic getaways to Costa Rica and Los Angeles, while Thompson has been open about the emotional toll of the split. His new documentary, which aired on ITV on June 13, 2025, revealed raw moments from his fundraising challenge, including a poignant scene where he broke down in tears, feeling like he was “losing himself.” Supported by close friend and podcast co-host Pete Wicks, Thompson pushed through the physical pain and emotional strain to complete the mission of delivering the Soccer Aid match ball to Old Trafford.
Despite his resilience, the injury proved too severe for him to participate in the match. Thompson tearfully acknowledged the frustration and embarrassment he felt, reflecting on how he feared letting people down. Yet, he expressed gratitude for remaining part of the event and the management team.
Thompson’s withdrawal is not the only setback for the England squad; survival expert Bear Grylls also pulled out due to a hamstring injury sustained during Soccer Aid training sprints. Grylls shared his disappointment on the Lorraine show, emphasizing the importance of Soccer Aid as an iconic televised event supporting UNICEF’s cause.
The England team boasts a star-studded lineup beyond Thompson and Tomlinson, including former football legends Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Jill Scott, Joe Hart, and celebrities such as Dame Denise Lewis, Bella Ramsey, and Sir Mo Farah. On the opposing Rest of the World side, football icons Nemanja Vidic, Carlos Tevez, and Leonardo Bonucci will be joined by celebrities Martin Compston, Dermot Kennedy, and Bryan Habana. Wayne Rooney and Tyson Fury will manage the England squad, with Harry Redknapp assisting, while Peter Schmeichel leads the World XI team.
Thompson’s absence from the pitch may ease the spotlight on the personal drama between him and Tomlinson, as insiders suggest. A source close to Thompson noted that while he is “gutted” not to play, his presence will still be felt, especially as he takes on a ceremonial role by kicking off the game before moving to the stands. Mo Farah, an England teammate, expressed pride in Thompson’s efforts, stating, “If Sam’s unable to play that’s a shame but we’re still proud of him for his efforts and what he did for UNICEF.”
Throughout the build-up to Soccer Aid, Thompson has been candid about his emotional journey post-breakup, including moments of vulnerability where he admitted to “letting himself go.” His friend Pete Wicks, who has been a constant support, even made a pointed reference to Zara McDermott during the challenge, holding a sign that read “You caaaaaan,” echoing a famous plea from McDermott during their relationship.
Despite the personal challenges and physical setbacks, Thompson remains focused on the charity’s mission. He emphasized that the event is “not about me or Louis or who anyone is dating, it’s f**king UNICEF and charity and everyone is going to be there for the exact same reason.” His words underscore the spirit of Soccer Aid, which annually brings together celebrities and football legends to raise funds and awareness for children’s causes worldwide.
As the countdown to the match continues, all eyes will be on Old Trafford this Sunday evening. While Thompson won’t be running on the pitch alongside teammates like Louis Tomlinson and Paul Scholes, his journey and dedication to the cause have already left an indelible mark. The charity match promises to be a star-studded affair filled with footballing legends, celebrity participants, and heartfelt moments, all in support of UNICEF’s vital work.
Sam Thompson’s story is a testament to determination and resilience, highlighting the physical and emotional costs of pushing oneself for a greater cause. His withdrawal from the game is a reminder that even heroes need to listen to their bodies, and that contribution to charity comes in many forms—on and off the pitch.
