Sam Thompson emotional after 260-mile Match Ball Mission total hits £2 million
He took on the mammoth challenge for Soccer Aid for UNICEF
Last updated 16th Jun 2025
There were emotional scenes at Old Trafford last week, as our very own Sam Thompson completed his incredible Match Ball Mission for Soccer Aid for UNICEF — raising more than £2 MILLION for the charity.
The Hits Radio presenter walked, rode and ran 260 miles from Stamford Bridge, in London, to Old Trafford, in Manchester, in time for this year’s game to deliver the match ball. For every mile, on foot and by bike, Sam has been raising money to support UNICEF's work for children worldwide.
As he reached the finish line on Friday 6th June, Sam dropped to his knees, full of emotion — after being greeted by his sister and Made in Chelsea star, Louise Thompson. And now the final total has been revealed.
Sam leapt out of his comfort zone (and into his lycra!) and took to the road in the ultimate test of endurance over five days of running and cycling. Ahead of the event, he told Fleur East, Will Best and James Barr on Hits Radio Breakfast that this is his "biggest physical challenge of his life'".
Sam has been joined on his journey by many famous faces, including best pal and TOWIE star Pete Wicks, I'm A Celeb campmate, Tony Bellew, and Celebrity Big Brother and Love Island contestant, Chris Hughes. He even had a special message from the Prime Minister, wishing him luck on the final stretch.
Keir Starmer said: "It's pretty inspiring. He's doing an absolutely fantastic job. All tribute to him. I think we'd all applaud what he's doing. It's really hard work - especially if you've got an injury. Soccer Aid is always good. Fully supportive of it."
How can I watch highlights of Sam Thompson's incredible match ball mission?
We've been with Sam every step (or cycle) of the way and you can see all the inspiring and emotional moments by checking out our Instagram @hitsradiouk.
Sam's challenge is also available to watch on ITVX, after a one-off TV special aired on Friday 13th June, which followed Sam on his mission.
All money raised will be going to Soccer Aid for UNICEF’s mission to help children grow up safe, healthy and able to play.
How much has he raised so far?
The current total stands at £2,075,564.
How to donate to Sam's Match Ball Mission:
You can donate either by text or online, both closing on Tuesday 15th July at midday.
To text to donate:
To give £30, £20 or £10 text:
• THIRTY to 70156 for a £30 donation
• TWENTY to 70156 for a £20 donation
• TEN to 70156 for a £10 donation
You must be eighteen or over, and please ask the bill payer’s permission. For terms and privacy information, please visit socceraid.org.uk/challengeterms
You can also donate online at socceraid.org.uk/challenge
For terms and conditions see here
One hundred percent of your donation will go to UNICEF and every donation will be doubled – up to five million pounds – thanks to the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation
Check out all the highlights from Sam Thompson's Match Ball Mission:
Sam's Match Ball Mission gets underway with TV presenter, Joel Dommett, by his side
Sam on his journey
Sam with Joel Dommett and Josie Gibson
Sam on foot
49 miles down - 211 to go
Day two gets underway
Sam powering through
Sam is joined by Love Island and Big Brother star, Chris Hughes
Reaching the next stop at Villa Park, in Birmingham
Getting some much-needed R&R
Day three gets underway
Sam takes a rest
Emotional scenes as Sam is joined by his best pal, Pete Wicks!
A moment's rest
Sam and Pete cycle towards the day three finish line
Almost at the day three finish line in Vale Park
Day four gets off to a drizzly start
Sam's back on two wheels as day four continues
Boxer Tony Bellew arrives to take Sam across the Mersey
An emotional reunion with his I'm a Celebrity campmate
Sam cycles towards the day four finish line at Goodison Park
The fifth and final day gets underway
The match ball is nearly at its destination!
Sam's pushing on, through the exhaustion
Sam crosses the finish line at Old Trafford
Delivering the Match Ball after 260 miles on the road!
Such emotional scenes as Sam completes day one and hears how much money he has raised so far...
Here's Sam crossing the finish line on day two!
Day three finish line!
Day four finish line!
Sam crosses the final finish line at Old Trafford...
Read more:
Everything you need to know about Sam Thompson
Everything you need to know about Sam Thompson on The Hits UK Chart