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.
13. Jordi Alba — World XI
Another former footballer on the World XI team is Spain’s Jordi Alba, who has played for teams including Barcelona, Inter Miami and more. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
14. Leonardo Bonucci — World XI
Italian defender Leonardo Bonucci is also coming out of retirement to play in this year’s Soccer Aid. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
15. Maisie Adam
English stand-up comedian Maisie Adam is playing for World XI, which will mark her fourth appearance at Soccer Aid. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures
16. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau — World XI
Best known for his role as Jamie Lannister in Game of Thrones, Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau will play for World XI. | UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures