The annual charity match promises excitement and a good cause as KSI and others switch teams this year.
Category: Sports
The Sidemen Charity Match is set to make a grand return to Wembley Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with excitement building among fans as they anticipate another thrilling showdown. Following last year's nail-biting event that attracted eight million viewers on YouTube, this year's match is expected to draw a staggering 90,000 fans, all eager to witness the action live.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. BST, and the stakes are high as the Sidemen aim to raise funds for two worthy charities: Brightside and M7 Education. These organizations focus on educational initiatives, underscoring the Sidemen's commitment to making a positive impact through their popular charity match.
Last year's game ended in a dramatic 9-9 draw, with the YouTube Allstars clinching victory after a tense penalty shootout, winning 5-4. The match raised an impressive £4.7 million, which went directly to charitable causes. This year, the Sidemen hope to build on that success, with the event selling out in just two-and-a-half hours, setting a record for ticket sales.
Fans can catch the action for free via a live stream on the Sidemen's YouTube channel, which has amassed a remarkable 23 million subscribers. This accessibility has contributed to the event's popularity, allowing viewers worldwide to join in on the fun.
The line-ups for the 2026 match showcase a mix of fan favorites and notable personalities. The Sidemen FC will feature players such as Zerkaa, Vikkstar, Wroetoshaw, TBJZL, Deji, and Marlon, among others. Meanwhile, the YouTube Allstars will include stars like KSI, Miniminter, Behzinga, and Squeezie, promising an exciting blend of talent on the pitch.
In a notable twist this year, KSI confirmed that several Sidemen representatives, including himself, Simon, and Ethan, will join the YouTube Allstars team. This change aims to increase competitiveness and make the match even more engaging for fans. KSI expressed his enthusiasm for the shift, stating, "With this charity match, we thought we'd change it up. Normally, the Sidemen are in one team, and we're up against different players in YouTube All Stars. But this time, three of us have moved to YouTube All Stars." He added that fans would be intrigued to see which goals they celebrate more and who they want to win, emphasizing the fun atmosphere that characterizes these charity matches.
Notably absent from this year's match are two high-profile figures: Logan Paul and iShowSpeed. Both will be participating in WWE WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas on the same night, competing in a six-man tag-team match. Their absence is felt among fans, but the remaining players are expected to deliver an entertaining experience.
The Sidemen Charity Match has a rich history, having raised over £8 million for various charitable causes since its inception in 2016. Previous matches have taken place at various venues, including St Mary's Stadium and The Valley, but the move to Wembley Stadium marks a new chapter for the event, highlighting its growth and popularity.
As anticipation builds, fans are reminded that if the match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, it will go straight to penalties without any extra time. This format adds an extra layer of excitement, ensuring that the outcome will be decided in a thrilling fashion.
The Sidemen's commitment to charity, combined with the star-studded line-up and the electric atmosphere of Wembley Stadium, promises a memorable event for all involved. As they prepare for this year's match, both players and fans alike are ahead to a day filled with fun, competition, and the joy of giving back.
With the date fast approaching, the Sidemen Charity Match is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events of the year, uniting fans and players for a good cause. Tickets may be sold out, but the excitement is just beginning, as viewers worldwide gear up to watch the action live on YouTube.
As the Sidemen take to the pitch, their dedication to charity will undoubtedly shine through, making this event a sporting spectacle and a celebration of community and goodwill. The Sidemen Charity Match continues to evolve, and with each passing year, it cements its place in the hearts of fans and charitable organizations alike.
As KSI aptly put it, "It's always quite entertaining, and it's always a fun time with these charity matches. Everyone always leaves with a smile on their face." With that spirit in mind, fans can expect nothing less than an unforgettable afternoon on April 18, 2026.