AO has been announced as one of the principal sponsors of Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2023, which takes place at Old Trafford on 11 June, and will be broadcast on ITV and STV.
The online retailer will be giving away branded thunder sticks outside the stadium to help fans bring the noise throughout the showcase match. The official AO mascot – Bear – will be there to meet everyone as they arrive and fans will also be able to take part in a fun football challenge, getting the chance to try and beat a high score set by Soccer Aid stars.
Vicky Monk, Group Marketing Director at AO, said: “We are proud to be the UK’s most trusted major electricals retailer and this sponsorship represents another fantastic investment for our brand, as well as a chance to support a great cause.
“Soccer Aid for UNICEF is always an amazing event and one that is perfect for the whole family. Having Bear there to greet people as they get to the ground will be brilliant start to what is sure to be a day to truly remember.”
Kenneth Shepherd, Executive Director at Soccer Aid Productions, said: “We are delighted to welcome AO as a principal partner for our 2023 campaign. We are excited to work with a brand trusted by so many people. Their plans for the game this year will add to the family atmosphere that is always created at our matches. Furthermore, AO’s generosity helps us to raise vital funds for UNICEF and to increase global awareness of our event.”
As is the case every year with Soccer Aid for UNICEF, an England team made up of footballing legends and celebrities will take on the Soccer Aid World XI FC. Lionesses’ Euro 2022 winner, and Queen of The Jungle, Jill Scott, will lead the England team out, alongside fellow newcomers Danny Dyer, Jack Wilshere, Joel Corry, Bugzy Malone, Karen Carney, Gary Cahill, as well as Tommy Fury – who will represent the World XI.
They are joined by familiar Soccer Aid faces, including World XI captain Usain Bolt, Liam Payne, Tom Grennan, Steven Bartlett, and Sir Mo Farah.
Rapper Stormzy will manage England, alongside Harry Redknapp, Emma Hayes, and Vicky McClure, who will face off against Line of Duty co-star and Rest of the World coach Martin Compston. The Scottish actor will be joined in the dugout by former Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino and footballing legend Robbie Keane.
Dermot O’Leary and Lionesses legend Alex Scott will present the live television programme on ITV and STV.
