KSI criticises Soccer Aid

Youtuber claims former pros are making the annual event ‘boring.’

YouTuber KSI has criticised Soccer Aid, highlighting a significant issue unrelated to the poor condition of the Stamford Bridge pitch.

According to the Mirror, KSI, who often takes part in celebrity fundraising matches, called out 'selfish' former professional players for spoiling the event, expressing a preference for watching influencers instead. 

Despite being pleased that millions were raised, he found the match disappointing.

The game featured notable players like Jermain Defoe, Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere, and Karen Carney for England, and Alessandro Del Piero, Michael Essien, Patrice Evra, and Eden Hazard for the Rest of the World. KSI argued that these ex-pros dominated the game, the Mirror noted.

I’m very glad Soccer Aid raised a lot of money today. Always brings a smile to my face every year.

However as football match, that was an awful and boring watch. It was literally ex pros just passing amongst themselves, dribbling past people and shooting from anywhere constantly…

— ksi (@KSI) June 9, 2024

He added, "Would much rather it just be influencers and entertainers play... Just feel like you should give more game time to people who don’t normally get to play in front of these crowds."

Some fans agreed, noting that ex-pros overshadowed the celebrities. Despite these criticisms, over £15 million was raised for Unicef. The event saw England secure their first title in six years and included celebrities like Robbie Williams and Paddy McGuinness. 

Concerns about the pitch condition were voiced on social media, and Soccer Aid apologized for Jill Scott's use of 'industrial language' during the match.