Radio DJ and TV presenter, Sam Thompson, set off on a 260-mile journey last week to raise money for UNICEF in Soccer Aid’s Match Ball Mission, and Suzuki was behind him every moment of the way.
During the five-day challenge, a fleet of five Suzuki vehicles supported Sam and his team as he made his journey from the host ground of 2024’s Soccer Aid match, Stamford Bridge, to this year’s venue, Old Trafford, by foot and bicycle.
Sam’s task to deliver the match ball for this year’s game saw him battle the elements to stop off at football club grounds along the way including Suzuki-sponsored MK Dons. Sam completed his challenge on Friday 6th June raising over £1.5m for UNICEF and highlights from his journey can be viewed in a special ITV1 programme, sponsored by Suzuki, on Friday 13th June at 9pm.
Suzuki is also the Principal Partner of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, which takes place this Sunday (15th June) and will see celebrities and footballers come together to play the ultimate game of football in England vs the Soccer Aid World XI. Since the first match in 2006, Soccer Aid for UNICEF has raised over £106 million to support UNICEF’s vital work around the world so that children can grow up safe, healthy and able to play.
Jodie Brooke, Senior Brand Communications Manager, Automotive Division at Suzuki, commented: “We are delighted to have played our part in supporting Sam and his team during his incredible mission. It was a huge challenge, and it’s a testament to Sam’s dedication and determination that he was able to safely deliver the match ball for Sunday’s game.
“We are thrilled to be part of this year’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF as Principal Partner and look forward to showcasing our brand-new e Vitara in Sam’s Match Ball Mission programme on Friday 13th June.”
As Suzuki is the programme sponsor, the new e Vitara, Suzuki’s first battery electric vehicle, will be featured several times at the beginning and end of each advert break.
For more information about Suzuki please visit www.suzuki.co.uk. To find out more about Soccer Aid please visit www.socceraid.org.uk.