Jacob Allmendinger, a 21-year-old from North Ferriby, Yorkshire, spent his entire £10,000 house deposit savings to take his 80-year-old grandfather, Geoff Golliker, on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the World Cup in the USA and Mexico. The pair have been attending matches, including England's 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, and are now heading to the quarter-final against Norway.
Metawin's Generous Gesture
After their heartwarming story spread online, US-based crypto casino Metawin contacted Jacob on social media. They initially offered to reimburse the £10,000 if England beat Panama by more than two goals. When England won only 2-0, Metawin extended the offer to a victory over DR Congo by any score. Following England's 2-1 win, Jacob found the full amount deposited in his bank account.
Jacob said: "I was amazed, it was an incredible gesture really. I didn't quite believe it, to be honest, until I looked at my bank and it was there." He plans to save the money for now, saying, "We could go to the European Championships, I could buy a house, anything is possible. It's just great to have options."
Public Recognition and Emotional Impact
The duo have been recognized by fans during their travels. In New York, a stranger approached them asking, "Are you the guys travelling round?" Geoff added: "The Mexican fans were absolutely fantastic. Very happy, very boisterous. The atmosphere that's built up is fantastic."
Jacob, who had saved for five years for a house deposit, explained his motivation: "I can always make money back, I'm at the age where I can afford to miss out on a house for two or three years. But I won't ever get to go to the World Cup with my grandad again. We get on like a house on fire. We're more best mates than grandad and grandson."
