Sam Thompson Opens Up About Grueling 260-Mile Soccer Aid Challenge, Admits He ‘Didn’t Think He’d Make It’ After Severe Calf Injury

Sam Thompson Overcomes Injury to Complete Grueling 260-Mile Soccer Aid Challenge
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Sam Thompson celebrates completing his 260-mile journey for UNICEF.

Sam Thompson, 32, battled tears, a severe calf injury, and exhaustion to complete a five-day, 260-mile Soccer Aid challenge, raising £1.5 million for UNICEF. The Made In Chelsea star crossed the finish line at Manchester’s Old Trafford on Friday, supported by friends, family, and even a surprise message from Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Injury Strikes Early
Just 2km from completing Day 1’s marathon leg, Sam suffered a torn calf muscle. “I cried into the physio’s arms,” he admitted. Medics warned recovery could take weeks, jeopardizing his participation in the Soccer Aid match on June 15. But Sam pressed on, cycling and walking the remaining distance.

Sam received medical support after his calf injury.

Friendship Fuels the Journey
Celebrity pals like Pete Wicks, Chris Hughes, and Joel Dommett joined him en route, while video messages from stars like Olivia Colman and Greg Rutherford kept him motivated. “The power of friendship got me through,” Sam said. “I’m weak, but the people around me make me strong.”

Prime Minister Starmer praised Sam’s “inspiring” effort in a video call, leaving the reality star stunned: “The PM knows my name?!”

Emotional Finish Line
At Old Trafford, Sam collapsed into the arms of his sister Louise, her fiancé Ryan Libbey, and their son Leo. Overwhelmed, he thanked supporters: “You’re all heroes. This money will change lives.”

Sam embraced by family after finishing the challenge.

Sacrifices for Charity
Despite his achievement, Sam likely won’t play in the Soccer Aid match due to his injury. Instead, he’ll assist manager Tyson Fury on the sidelines. “I’ll annoy everyone from the touchline!” he joked.

The Road Ahead
Sam’s journey began at London’s Stamford Bridge, with stops in Milton Keynes, Birmingham, Stoke-on-Trent, and Liverpool. Each day tested his resolve, but donations soaring past £1 million kept him going. “UNICEF’s work is far bigger than me,” he said. “This was about shining a light on their mission.”

Pete Wicks cheered Sam on during the challenge.

Legacy of Perseverance
Sam’s feat echoes friend Jamie Laing’s 2024 charity marathon. Jamie’s pep talk on Day 3 revived Sam’s spirits: “You’re doing this for the kids. Keep going!”

Though battered, Sam hopes his story inspires others: “If I can push through, anyone can. Just take it step by step.”

Donations to UNICEF via Soccer Aid continue at SoccerAid.org.uk.

Sam placed the matchball at Old Trafford, completing his mission.

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