Stormzy, AJ Tracey, and Naomi Campbell are among the celebrities who have praised England midfielder Jude Bellingham after he spoke out following the team's World Cup semi-final defeat. The Three Lions lost 2-1 to Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, ending their campaign in the 2026 tournament.
Bellingham shares poem from team driver
Bellingham, 23, took to Instagram to share a four-page poem written by Michael Chandler, the team's driver based in Kansas. The poem, titled The Lions Way, was accompanied by a message from the footballer: "Was really struggling to find the right words for yesterday and the last few weeks but this pretty much hits the nail on the head from our driver in Kansas." He added: "Thank you for the unbelievable support from back home and to those who spent their hard earned money to travel to America and get behind us. Don't let the unity and love we've seen in our country end with this campaign. When we're together we can achieve big things… And we will! Love yous!"
Celebrity responses flood in
Rapper AJ Tracey commented: "Keep your head up bro, amazing tourney from you and we go again 2030." Stormzy wrote: "Top boy," adding a red heart and crown emoji. Naomi Campbell called Bellingham a "chosen one," writing: "Your strength and perseverance is inspiring." Former Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing said: "You made us all proud." Fellow England players Marcus Rashford, Jordan Henderson, and Anthony Gordon responded with red heart emojis. Rapper Nemzzz said: "Absolute class." YouTube personality Deji, brother of KSI, wrote: "Hold your head high brother," with a heart emoji. Former Strictly: It Takes Two host Fleur East and BBC radio presenter Clara Amfo both responded with applause emojis. Former Love Island star Josh Denzel said: "Is right my boy!"
Emotional aftermath
Bellingham was visibly emotional after the match, seen in tears when he reunited with his family and friends. His Instagram post marked the first time he publicly reflected on England's defeat in the World Cup.
