There have been several feel-good stories during the 2026 World Cup, but the ones that dominate the headlines occur on the pitch. This one did not.
Jacob Allmendinger, 21, used his life savings of £10,000 to take his 80-year-old grandfather, Geoff Golliker, on a dream trip to the World Cup. The duo traveled from England to the USA and Mexico to support the Three Lions, taking in wins over Panama, DR Congo, and Mexico.
The 3-2 win over Mexico at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City sent England into the quarterfinals, where it will face Norway on Saturday in Miami. Jacob and Geoff will be in attendance again at Hard Rock Stadium.
“The choice was between this or a house deposit, and I don’t regret choosing it at all,” Jacob said. “You can make the money back, but memories are forever.”
Heartwarming Story Goes Viral
Jacob obviously had no regrets about spending the money he’d saved for a house to take his “best mate” on the trip of a lifetime. But the US-based online crypto casino Metawin stepped in and agreed to reimburse him if England defeated Panama by more than two goals.
When that failed to happen after England’s 2-0 win, Metawin stepped up again with the same offer if England defeated DR Congo. The crypto casino made good on its pledge after a 2-1 win by the Three Lions.
“I was amazed, it was an incredible gesture really,” Jacob said. “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.”
Football Creates Lifetime Bond
Jacob hails from North Ferriby, East Yorkshire, and Geoff began taking him to Hull City matches when he was a young boy. They still attend home and away games, and recently watched Hull City gain promotion to the Premier League.
“Ever since grandma died, football’s been a massive part of our lives really,” Jacob said.
Geoff added, “Certainly, it really has been my saviour, she’d have absolutely loved this trip.”
The duo has been recognized publicly after the story went viral. Jacob has also received myriad mentions on social media from those touched by their story.
“I think it just resonates with people,” he said. “I’ve had people reach out who have lost their grandparents and wish they’d done something similar. It just makes us cherish this time more.”
