Teen Actor Owen Cooper Set to Make Soccer Aid History as Youngest Ever Player
Owen Cooper, the 16-year-old star of the Netflix drama Adolescence, is poised to break records at this year's Soccer Aid charity football match. He will become the youngest participant ever in the event's two-decade history, joining the England squad for the game at London Stadium on 31 May 2026, which aims to raise crucial funds for Unicef.
Cooper's Enthusiasm for the Cause
Despite not being alive when Soccer Aid first launched, Cooper has expressed immense pride in being part of its 20th anniversary. "I'm incredibly proud to be playing at Soccer Aid for Unicef in its 20th anniversary year," he stated. "Becoming the youngest player to take part is a real honour and I'm excited to step out at the London Stadium on May 31. This event raises vital funds to help children grow up safe, healthy and able to play – and I'm grateful to be part of such an important cause."
Cooper, who also appeared in a film adaptation of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, gained fame through his breakout role in Adolescence. He is among several debutants for the England team, including actor Damson Idris, internet personality GK Barry, former rugby player Joe Marler, Radio DJ Jordan North, and Gladiator Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.
Celebrity Participants and Their Reactions
Marler, referencing his recent stint on Celebrity Traitors, joked that he would remain "faithful" to the "amazing cause" as he transitions from rugby to football. North, aged 36, admitted feeling "privileged, excited and slightly terrified" about participating, while Aikines-Aryeetey described it as a "dream come true."
They will be supported by returning England veterans such as former footballer Jill Scott, TV presenter Paddy McGuinness, singer Olly Murs, and actor Tom Hiddleston, alongside singer-songwriter Tom Grennan and reality TV star Sam Thompson.
World XI Squad and Event Details
The Soccer Aid World XI FC will feature Olympic runner Usain Bolt, comedian Maisie Adam, rapper Big Zuu, Scottish actor Richard Gadd, and The Last Leg's Alex Brooker. Music star Robbie Williams, who co-founded the concept, will also return to the pitch and join this year's England management team.
To mark 60 years since England's World Cup victory, the England team will wear the iconic white home kit from the 1966 match, while the Soccer Aid World XI FC will don a bespoke Adidas kit. The game will be played with the same footballs designated for use in this summer's World Cup.
Broadcast and Additional Announcements
This year's event will be hosted by Unicef UK ambassador and This Morning presenter Dermot O'Leary, alongside sports presenter and former footballer Alex Scott. Broadcaster Sam Matterface will return as commentator. Further celebrity participants and a special 20th-anniversary half-time entertainment show are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks. Soccer Aid will be broadcast live on ITV1, STV, and ITVX on 31 May.
Since its inception in 2006, England has secured six victories, while the Soccer Aid World XI FC boasts eight wins, adding a competitive edge to this charitable spectacle.
