Sam’s journey will come to an end at Manchester United stadium Old Trafford
Sam Thompson is nearing the end of his Soccer Aid challenge for Unicef, but how much has he raised for the charity to date?
The former I’m A Celebrity winner is preparing for the final day of his 260-mile journey from last year’s stadium, Stamford Bridge, to this year’s – Manchester United’s home Old Trafford.
Seeking to help Soccer Aid for UNICEF’s campaign to help children worldwide grow up safe, healthy and able to play, Sam has had to run a marathon a day, as well as cycle.
Beginning his challenge on Monday (June 2), Sam has been joined by his sister Louise, her partner Ryan Libbey, his nephew Leo, and comedian Joel Dommett over the course of his run.
On top of this, Sam broke down in tears when he met his best friend Pete Wicks on Wednesday (June 4), who provided him with some words of encouragement.
During Thursday’s (June 5) episode of This Morning, Sam received a message from Lord Of The Rings and Pirates Of The Caribbean star Orlando Bloom.
“We are so proud of you, mate! It’s amazing what you are doing. You’re in the home stretch, we’re all pulling for you. Like you, I have seen the work Unicef do in the field, it’s amazing.
“You’re a hero, everyone donating is a hero. I’m going to throw some at you as well. I hope it helps. You are remarkable. I only wish I could find time to come out and see you and cheer you over the line.
“But it’s incredible what you’re doing and Unicef, as an ambassador for many years, we are so grateful for all the women and children’s lives around the world you’re changing. Congrats, mate. We’re pulling for you,” he said.
The 32-year-old is scheduled to complete his journey to Old Trafford at around 11am on Friday (June 6), however the timings are subject to change.
It was revealed on Thursday night that Sam has achieved a record fundraising total of £1,169,922.42 and counting.
“It’s been the hardest day by an absolute mile, there’s been a lot of tears and a lot of pain. This is the wildest journey I’ve ever been on – and it’s not over yet. I fell to the ground when we hit £1 million. I’m so humbled. Thank you to everyone who’s donated, it means the world. I’ve seen firsthand the work UNICEF does in Guatemala and this will do amazing things,” Sam said.
It was announced on Wednesday that every donation will be tripled, thanks to Children’s Investment Fund Foundation matching donations up to £5 million and an anonymous donor matching up to £500,000.
After taking a week to rest, Sam will be playing for England against the World XI on Sunday, June 14, with Wayne Rooney and Tyson Fury managing him.
Sam will be playing alongside the likes of Gary Neville, One Direction star Louis Tomlinson and TV presenter Bear Grylls.
It was announced last week that Sam Thompson’s Match Ball Mission, a documentary about his challenge will air at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX on Friday, June 13.
