Hat-trick scored, trophies lifted and thousands raised: Mercedes and Aston Martin clash in F1 charity football match

Men’s and women’s squads from their respective F1 teams took to the pitch at Brackley Town FC last Thursday, September 17, to generate donations.

The Brackley-based Mercedes continued their support for children’s hospice and charity partner Helen & Douglas House, while Silverstone’s Aston raised funds for Movember.

It was an excellent evening at St James Park, as Mercedes’ men’s squad were triumphant for a third year running and Aston were victorious in the women’s match.

In the men’s fixture, Mercedes partnership development executive Joseph Flarry scored an impressive second-half hat-trick to lead the Silver Arrows to glory.

Aston Martin performance software engineer Enrique Martin Ocana found the net late on, however it was merely a consolation goal as Mercedes won 3-1.

Hat-trick hero Flarry reflected: “Supporting Helen & Douglas House is what this event is all about. We’re incredibly proud to play our part in raising money for such an important cause.

“There’s a real family culture at Mercedes and that comes to life on days like this. The togetherness, both on and off the pitch, is what makes the event so special.

“Winning the game and scoring a hat-trick was a bonus, but being part of something that makes a genuine difference is what I’ll remember most.”

Meanwhile, in the women’s event earlier in the night, Aston Martin scored from a great team move and a powerful direct free-kick to earn a two-goal advantage.

But there was a deserved goal for Mercedes social media executive Jordy Gray, who had struck the woodwork and hit several shots on target before getting on the scoresheet for 2-1.

Gray said afterwards: “We are incredibly lucky to work in Formula One; being able to use our platform to give back to charities and community groups that make a difference is special.

“We’ve been able to see first-hand what the money we’re raising can do to help local families and we’ve had the chance to meet some of the wonderful children they support too.

“Moments like that really bring home the importance of this partnership.”

This charity football event - the fifth since it began in 2022 - has helped take Mercedes’ fundraising for Helen & Douglas House to over £125,000.

But it wasn’t just charity money at stake on the field at Brackley Town’s stadium, but also some serious local pride.

Accounting, tax and treasury director Matt Baldry, who was playing at centre-back for Mercedes, admitted: “It’s obviously a long way from the grandeur of Formula One, but once we cross that white line, everyone is playing to win.

“There are definitely a few local bragging lights and the chance to return to the factory with the trophy makes it even sweeter.

“It usually gets pride of place alongside our race trophies for a few days, at least until someone reminds us to get back to our day jobs!”