Published on 4th March 2026

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Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2026 - FAQs

Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2026 - FAQs

ITV are keen to ensure our viewers understand our appeals and why we work in partnership with charities. Please find below some frequently asked questions regarding Soccer Aid for UNICEF.

What is Soccer Aid for UNICEF?

Soccer Aid for UNICEF is an entertainment-led charity campaign, culminating in the world’s biggest celebrity football match featuring two teams of professional and celebrity players, broadcast live on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player on Sunday 31st May 2026 at London Stadium. Soccer Aid for UNICEF harnesses the power of football to raise millions of pounds and help UNICEF to bring life-changing support to children around the world. Since the first game in 2006, more than £121 million has been raised by Soccer Aid to support UNICEF in its ambition to reach more children than any other humanitarian organisation.

When is Soccer Aid for UNICEF?

This year, the match will be held at London Stadium on Sunday 31st May. The game will be broadcast live on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player. Timings will be announced closer to the date of transmission.

Who is UNICEF?

UNICEF is the world’s leading organisation for children. They work with families, local communities, organisations and governments in more than 190 countries to help create a better world for every child.

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, reaching children the furthest from help, the most disadvantaged and the most at risk. They help provide more children with clean water, life-saving food and vaccines, access to education and protection from violence than any other humanitarian organisation.

How does Soccer Aid raise funds for UNICEF?

Soccer Aid for UNICEF is bringing millions of us together with one goal: to help children grow up safe, healthy and able to play. Play is how children learn and develop. But around the world, conflict, hunger and disease are holding children back. The money we raise could help provide food, healthcare and crisis support – to protect play for every child.

Why does ITV support Soccer Aid for UNICEF?

ITV entertains and connects with millions of people in the UK and globally, reflecting and shaping culture and building brands with brilliant content and creativity.

Reflecting and shaping the world we live in gives us a great opportunity: to change ITV for the better, and to use our content and reach to inspire positive change in the wider world. 

We have four focus areas: Mental Wellbeing, Climate Action, Diversity Equity and Inclusion and Better Futures. By supporting children internationally through Soccer Aid for UNICEF, this is our main fundraising appeal within Better Futures.

How does ITV make sure that donations are used appropriately? 

Transparency in how your donations will be used by charities is of paramount importance. ITV is committed to ensuring that the money that has been generously donated by our viewers goes directly towards projects that have a real and tangible impact on people’s lives both in the UK and overseas. 100% of the donations made by viewers will go to UNICEF to help fund their vital work across the world. To find out further details about how UNICEF use your donations on their vital projects please visit www.socceraid.org.uk

Can I buy tickets for Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2026?

Yes. Please visit www.socceraid.org.uk where you can buy tickets.

Where can I watch Soccer Aid for UNICEF? 

Soccer Aid for UNICEF will be broadcast live exclusively in the UK on Sunday 31st May 2026 on ITV1, STV, ITVX, and STV Player. It will also be available to watch on the ITV YouTube channel.