Simply Cup 2026 set to kick off – bigger, better, and bolder

The countdown has begun for one of the most anticipated events in the asset finance calendar. On Thursday, 8th January 2026, the Simply Cup returns to Powerleague Battersea for another day of high-energy football, industry networking, and community fundraising – all in aid of Cancer Research UK (CRUK).

Fresh off the back of last year’s success, the 2026 tournament promises to be the biggest yet. With 35 team spaces available and an impressive 25 already filled in the first week of release, the competition is set to be fierce both on and off the pitch.

Building on a record-breaking 2025

The Simply Cup has grown rapidly since its launch, becoming a flagship charity event for the asset finance community. The 2025 tournament saw 30 teams from 27 businesses come together in an electric atmosphere. Portman Finance Group took home the championship title after edging out Audeo in a tense final, while Lendscape lifted the Plate Award in a spirited contest.

Last year wasn’t just about football – it was about impact. The event raised an incredible £26,457.75 for Cancer Research UK, helping to fund life-saving research and treatments. Off the pitch, players and supporters took part in raffles and the hugely popular crossbar challenge, adding to the energy of the day.

“Last year was full of spirit, competition, and generosity, and the support for Cancer Research UK was truly humbling. The 2026 event will be another fantastic opportunity to unite the community and make an even greater impact.”

What to expect in 2026

This year’s event looks set to raise the bar once again. Alongside a day of fast-paced 5-a-side matches, teams will also compete in the return of the crossbar challenge for the chance to win a major prize, with seven tickets per team included in the entry fee.

But it’s not just about the competition. The Simply Cup has become an unmissable networking opportunity for professionals across the asset finance industry, offering a chance to connect, collaborate, and celebrate while supporting a vital cause.

Kicking off the new year with purpose

The Simply Cup has become more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of community, competition, and compassion. Each year, it demonstrates the power of the asset finance industry to come together and make a tangible difference.

With demand for spaces already high, teams are encouraged to secure their spot early by emailing lucia.sanchez@simply.finance. For many, the event has become the perfect way to kick-start the new year, blending a passion for sport with a shared commitment to funding groundbreaking cancer research.

The stage is set, the goals are ready, and the challenge has been laid down: who will take the Simply Cup title in 2026?

Event details:

Date: Thursday, 8th January 2026
Venue: Powerleague Battersea, London
Team Spaces: 35 total – 25 already filled
Register your team by contacting: lucia.sanchez@simply.finance