England fan who used life savings to take grandad to World Cup gets refunded

Jacob Allmendinger, a 21-year-old England supporter, sacrificed his house deposit to fulfill his grandfather Geoff Golliker's dream of attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The pair embarked on a journey across the United States and Mexico, witnessing England's group stage victories and a dramatic Round of 16 win.

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I was amazed, it was an incredible gesture really.

Their heartwarming story gained viral attention, catching the eye of US-based crypto casino company Metawin. Initially, the company offered to refund Allmendinger's £10,000 if England defeated Panama by over two goals. Although England's 2-0 victory fell short of this condition, Metawin later sweetened the deal, promising the refund if England beat DR Congo by any score.

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They had contacted me on social media about the story and tweeted about paying the money back if we beat Panama by more than two goals. When we only won 2-0 they said they would still pay £10,000 if we won against DR Congo by any score. I didn’t quite believe it, to be honest, until I looked at my bank and it was there.

Following England's 2-1 victory over DR Congo, Metawin fulfilled its promise, depositing the £10,000 into Allmendinger's bank account. He expressed his shock and gratitude, stating he would save the money for now, considering future possibilities like attending the European Championships or purchasing a house. Allmendinger described the Mexico match as a "once-in-a-generation game."

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I was just in shock. I think I’ll save the money until I get back home. I’ll put it in a savings account for now and see what happens after the next couple of months. We could go to the European Championships, I could buy a house, anything is possible. It’s just great to have options. We’ve had an amazing trip so far. We’re still in Mexico at the minute and fly tomorrow to Miami for the quarter final. The Mexico game was a once-in-a-generation game to watch.

The trip has been an incredible experience for both grandfather and grandson. Allmendinger noted the parallels drawn by fans between England's current World Cup journey and their 1966 victory. He also shared that many people have reached out, sharing similar stories about cherishing time with grandparents, which has made the experience even more meaningful.

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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.