England fan who spent life savings gets money back

A 21-year-old England fan who spent his life savings to take his grandfather to the World Cup has had the money returned after a company was inspired by his story. Jacob Allmendinger, from North Ferriby in East Yorkshire, said he was "amazed" when £10,000 landed in his bank account following England's victory over DR Congo in Atlanta.

"I didn't quite believe it, to be honest, until I looked at my bank and it was there. I was just in shock," he said. The money was gifted by Metawin, an online crypto casino, after his story went viral on social media.

Journey across the US

Jacob and his 80-year-old grandfather, Geoff Golliker, have been travelling across the United States to watch England's World Cup matches. Since landing in New York, they have visited Atlanta, Georgia, for the match against DR Congo and the Azteca Stadium, where they saw England's 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico.

Reflecting on the Mexico game, Jacob said: "It was a once-in-a-generation game to watch. The parallels to now and 1966 when we last beat Mexico in the World Cup and then went on to win the whole thing, it kind of gets you giddy for the rest of the trip."

Geoff added: "The Mexican fans were absolutely fantastic. Very happy, very boisterous. The atmosphere that's built up is fantastic."

Recognition and support

The pair have been recognised during their travels. "We're getting recognised quite a bit. When we were in New York, a guy came up to us and said, 'are you the guys travelling round?' It was brilliant," Geoff said.

Jacob said he had been overwhelmed by positive messages. "I think it just resonates with people. I've had people reach out who have lost their grandparents and how they wish they'd done something similar. It just makes us cherish this time more, really," he said.

Plans for the future

The pair are now heading to Miami for England's quarter-final match against Norway on Saturday. Jacob said he plans to save the money until he gets home. "We could go to the European Championships [2028], I could buy a house, anything is possible. It's just great to have options," he said.