Soccer Aid for UNICEF, the world’s largest charity football match, has announced its official partnership for the 2023 game with Vitality, the innovative health and life insurance company.
This marks the fifth collaboration between Vitality and Soccer Aid for UNICEF, with the sponsorship including exclusive behind-the-scenes access and involvement in fitness-related challenges. The objective is to inspire and motivate people to lead healthier and more active lifestyles.
Nick Read, Managing Director of the Vitality Programme, expressed the significance of the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with UNICEF holds tremendous importance for us, and we are proud to continue working with the Soccer Aid for UNICEF team for the fifth consecutive year.
With a shared goal of ensuring people live happy and healthy lives, this partnership embodies our core values as a business. Witnessing the remarkable efforts made to protect children worldwide and the ongoing ambition to do more is truly inspiring.”
Kenneth Shepherd, Founder of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, expressed his delight in extending the partnership with Vitality for the 2023 match. Shepherd added, “Vitality has been an exceptional partner for the past five years, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them once again for the upcoming event. We eagerly anticipate working with Vitality during the training week and leading up to the big game on Sunday, June 11th, at Old Trafford.”
The lineup for Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2023 features debutants such as Jack Wilshere, Jill Scott, Gary Cahill, Karen Carney, Ben Foster, Francesco Totti, Nani, Gabriel Batistuta, Kaylyn Kyle, Bugzy Malone, Joel Corry, Scarlette Douglas, Leon Edwards, and Tommy Fury. Returning stars include Usain Bolt, Paul Scholes, Tom Grennan, Lee Mack, and Chunkz. Additionally, longstanding host and UNICEF UK Ambassador Dermot O’Leary will be joined by co-host and UNICEF UK High Profile Supporter Alex Scott, along with football reporter Jermaine Jenas as a pundit for the game.
The team will be further bolstered by the presence of renowned football stars, including Jermain Defoe, Gary Neville, Hernan Crespo, Nicky Butt, David James, Eni Aluko, Patrice Evra, and Roberto Carlos. While Harry Redknapp returns as part of the team, Stormzy, one of the biggest names in the music industry, will join as co-manager for Team England.
Soccer Aid for UNICEF, co-founded by UNICEF UK ambassador Robbie Williams in 2006, has raised over £75 million to provide children worldwide with a happy and healthy childhood filled with play.
The 2022 edition of Soccer Aid for UNICEF at the London Stadium set a new record by raising an astonishing £15 million.
In the face of ongoing global challenges, children are experiencing the harsh realities of war, disasters, and crises. Many are being deprived of the joyful, healthy, play-filled childhoods they deserve. Soccer Aid for UNICEF leverages the power of football to safeguard play for every child.
By addressing their health, shelter, education, sanitation, and more, the initiative allows children to be themselves and focus on what they love most: playtime.
The funds raised from this year’s game could make a significant difference in UNICEF’s fight against malnutrition, ensuring children’s safety during crises, and enabling their return to school.
Additionally, the proceeds could support UNICEF in providing vaccines against preventable diseases, such as polio, allowing children worldwide to have the best possible start in life.
To purchase tickets for Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2023, visit www.socceraid.org.uk/tickets. A family of four can attend for just £60, contributing to this worthy cause.
Vitality has been a longstanding partner of UNICEF, supporting other notable active and sports-focused campaigns by the organization.