A young England supporter has had his £10,000 house deposit refunded after a heartwarming World Cup trip with his grandfather went viral.
Twenty-one-year-old Jacob Allmendinger had used his savings to take his 80-year-old grandfather, Geoff Golliker, to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States and Mexico.
Jacob said he chose to create lasting memories with his grandfather instead of buying a house.
He explained that he could always save for another home, but would never get another chance to experience a World Cup with his grandfather.
The pair travelled through New York, Atlanta and Mexico City to support England.
They watched England defeat Panama and DR Congo in the group stage.
They also witnessed England’s dramatic 3-2 Round of 16 victory over Mexico at the famous Estadio Azteca.
Their touching story quickly spread across social media.
Fans in different host cities began recognising the grandfather and grandson.
A US-based crypto casino company, Metawin, then contacted Jacob with an unexpected offer.
The company promised to refund his £10,000 if England beat Panama by more than two goals.
Although England won only 2-0, Metawin extended the offer.
It pledged to pay Jacob if England defeated DR Congo by any score.
After England’s 2-1 victory, the company honoured its promise and transferred the money.
Jacob admitted he did not believe it until he saw the funds in his bank account.
He said he plans to keep the money in a savings account while deciding his next move.
Jacob said the refund has given him more options, including buying a house or travelling to future football tournaments.
The pair have now travelled to Miami to continue supporting England in the World Cup.
Jacob said many people have contacted him, sharing stories about wishing they had spent more time with their grandparents.
Geoff also said they have become well-known among football fans and praised the friendly atmosphere created by supporters throughout their journey.
