Reality TV star Sam Thompson has successfully completed his 260-mile Soccer Aid challenge, crossing the finish line in Manchester despite a torn calf muscle. The 32-year-old former Made in Chelsea star pushed through intense pain, raising over £1.5 million for UNICEF.
Thompson tore his calf on the first day of the five-day challenge, which involved running and cycling from Chelsea's Stamford Bridge to Manchester United's Old Trafford. He admitted to crying into his physio's arms, fearing he would be medically discharged. 'They were talking about doing that but I was like ‘no’,' he told the Mirror.
Despite the injury, Thompson continued, relying on double codeine and paracetamol for pain relief. He described his leg 'completely giving up' at one point, forcing him into a 'fast hobble' to the finish line. His family, including sister Louise Thompson and father Michael, were there to greet him.
Throughout the challenge, Thompson received support from friends including Pete Wicks, who held a sign referencing Thompson's ex-girlfriend Zara McDermott. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also offered encouragement, which Thompson called 'mad'.
