Dark Horses helps launch the NHS Charities Together Cup, a celebrity FIFA tournament

This week sees the launch of the NHS Charities Together Cup, an ambitious FIFA tournament between a star-studded line-up of household names to raise funds for the NHS Charities Together COVID-19 Urgent Appeal.

Sporting superstars who have signed up include John Terry, Ben Stokes, Dillian Whyte, Tony Bellew, Leah Williamson and Jonny Brownlee, who will take on the likes of showbiz favourites Chris and Kem and a host of other celebrities.

Created and backed by a collective of brands (Lynx and BP), media companies (Reach PLC) and broadcasters (ITV) the tournament is a knockout FIFA ‘20 competition featuring eight teams, each comprising three celebs, with a public vote deciding which member represents them in a live-streamed one-on-one match.

Sports creative agency Dark Horses has created all the supporting content in just six days from being briefed. The campaign’s first wave starts with a touching and charming launch film which shows families going through their pre-match routine - just like they would a real Cup Final. All based from their homes this includes creating their own shirts (with names such as NHS United or FC NHS), dusting down their TV’s, setting up their couches and warming up their fingers. The film was produced through Homestudio @ MindsEye.

The film was produced in just four days by a group of directors working simultaneously from their homes.

Dark Horses has also created content for every celebrity and team for them to launch on their social channels prior to their game to drive interest as the tournament progresses.

The second wave of support will see them creating fundraising films using real-life stories, including short videos and daily blogs, from Dr's, Nurses and other frontline staff across the NHS.

Simon Dent, Founder of Dark Horses, said: “In these uncertain times the NHS is standing tall and providing support for the nation. We wanted to come together as brands, media partners and agencies to bring our skills and reach to bear and return that support. The determination, creativity and desire to get this done from all involved has been phenomenal.”

Leo Skagerlind, CEO, Celebrity Esports said: “Dark Horses has worked minor miracles in getting such brilliant content together in such a short space of time. When I saw the launch film, it made me realise all the weeks of hard work had just come together. The NHS Charities Together Cup will be somewhere between Celebrity Gogglebox, Sports Relief and Soccer AM and will be a tonic which will bring people together in challenging times."