Dozens of sports legends and celebrities will soon team up for Soccer Aid, with England facing off against the World XI squad to raise money for UNICEF.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the annual charity match was first founded in 2006 by Jonathan Wilkes and Robbie Williams, who will help manage England this year.
Due to take place on Sunday, May 31 at London Stadium, former footballers such as Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe, and Jill Scott will play for England, alongside Nemanja Matić, Lukas Podolski, Leonardo Bonucci, Jen Beattie and more representing World XI.
Stars such as Danny Dyer, Olly Murs, Tom Hiddleston, and Owen Cooper will help represent their home country, while familiar faces including Biffy Clyro’s Simon Neil, Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd and Usain Bolt, who is coaching the squad, play for the rest of the world.
Last year, World XI took home the title after rapper and TV personality Big Zuu scored the winning goal at Old Trafford in Manchester, helping put the team narrowly ahead in terms of overall wins.
But if you’re planning on tuning in, here is every single star playing for England and World XI in Soccer Aid 2026.
1. Richard Gadd — World XI
Scottish actor, comedian and writer Richard Gadd – the creator of Baby Reindeer and Half Man – will play for World XI during Soccer Aid 2026. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
2. Simon Neil — World XI
The second Scottish player on the World XI team is Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
3. Jen Beattie — World XI
From Glasgow, former footballer Jen Beattie will play for World XI during this year’s charity match. Her former clubs include Arsenal, Celtic, Bay FC, Montpellier and Manchester City, as well as Scotland's national team. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
4. Ali Krieger — World XI
American women’s football player Ali Krieger will play in the World XI squad. A two time FIFA Women’s World Cup winner, she is typically a right or centre back. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures