SAS veteran Phil Campion fronts Lapland expedition in support of SSAFA

15 September 2026

He has served in warzones across the globe as part of the elite Special Forces unit 22 SAS, but now Phil Campion is swapping covert ops for the wide open of one of the world’s last untouched wildernesses. 

In January 2027 Big Phil will lend his support to a group of intrepid adventurers - many of them also ex-Forces - on a mission to complete an up to 50km trek across hostile Arctic terrain and raising funds to support veterans and their families. 

The former soldier turned author and TV personality is heading up SSAFA’s Warrior Challenge Lapland - a unique and unforgettable trek that will see up to 50 challengers take on the Arctic ultramarathon, completing a distance of 25 to 50km across the frozen landscape of Swedish Lapland. 

Every step they take will raise vital funds for the UK’s oldest tri-service military charity, helping SSAFA continue its more than 140-year legacy of tailored support and ensuring the Armed Forces community need never battle alone. 

Phil said: “I joined the Army aged 16 and have seen my fair share of action, so I have first-hand experience of how important support for the Armed Forces family is. 

“Lapland will be a once in a lifetime experience for those taking part, unlike any landscape they’ve ever been in before and with its own distinct challenges. I can’t wait to get out there and champion this epic adventure while supporting SSAFA to look after the community that’s so close to my heart.” 

Taking place on 23 January 2027 and with distances of 25 and 50km to choose from, SSAFA’s Warrior Challenge Lapland is open to teams and individuals of all fitness levels with the right training plan. Comprehensive support - from training guidance to kit advice and fundraising support - is provided, as well as airport transfers, accommodation, and safety teams during the race itself. 

Sarah Bewley, Senior Running Events Officer at SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity said: “Warrior Challenge Lapland will be an adventure like no other; a real test of endurance, determination, and teamwork for those taking part and a chance to support SSAFA’s often life-changing work with the Armed Forces community. 

“We’re so excited for this once in a lifetime challenge, set amid the jaw-dropping beauty of the Arctic Circle, and want as many people as possible to experience it. I’d encourage anyone who is interested to find out more – and look forward to welcoming those who are brave enough to the frozen wilderness of Lapland come January.”