Sam Thompson quits Soccer Aid after awkward encounter with Louis Tomlinson
The I'm A Celebrity star said he's 'gutted' to pull out from this weekend's Soccer Aid tournament
Sam Thompson has quit Soccer Aid 2025. The ITV I'm A Celebrity star is reportedly "gutted" to be pulling out, after taking on a gruelling marathon challenge for UNICEF last week ahead of the event.
Sam, 32, had been flooded with support from celeb pals and fans as he emotionally pushed through the mental and physical challenges of making the 260-mile trip from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford by foot and bike to deliver the match ball ahead of kick off.
Now it's reported his decision to quit has left the former Made in Chelsea star "gutted" he can't take part.
"Sam is gutted he can't play, but the match has just come too soon since his efforts. He's still going to be a presence and play a big part in the coverage but he won't be able to compete on the field," a source disclosed to The Sun.
The news of him dropping out means he will narrowly avoid another uncomfortable encounter with his ex Zara McDermott's new boyfriend, One Direction star Louis Tomlinson. The pair had been set to play on the same side for England to raise Unicef funds.
The source went on: "There is a small blessing in his withdrawal as the focus on him and Louis will disperse. Their every move will be watched so it's a relief in some ways they won't be on the pitch together."
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