Footballers must be born in a country or have a family tie to represent them at the World Cup, but supporters are free to choose. Six fans share why they root for teams with no family connection.
Paul, 63, from Sheffield: France
Paul started supporting France during the 1982 World Cup, drawn by the exciting football of Michel Platini, Jean Tigana, and Alain Giresse. He introduced his daughter to the team in 1998. Despite being the only France fan among colleagues, he endured teasing and even had his workstation vandalized after France beat England 2-1 in Euro 2004. He remains loyal, praising Didier Deschamps and Michael Olise.
Porus Patwari Jain, 31, from Rajasthan: Portugal
Porus began watching the Premier League at age 11 and supported Manchester United, where Cristiano Ronaldo played. He adopted Portugal for World Cups, staying for Nani, Pepe, and others. He admires the team's passion and grit, recalling their underdog status. Portugal has caused him distress, including a recent defeat to Spain, but he cherishes the journey.
Iulia, 43, from Romania: Argentina
Iulia fell for Argentina during the 1994 World Cup after watching them play. At age 11, she stayed up to watch Romania beat Argentina 3-2, mistakenly thinking Romania would become world beaters. She stuck with Argentina and celebrated their 2022 World Cup win, 28 years later.
Rachel Fiegler, 38, from New York: Argentina and Uruguay
Rachel supports multiple teams. Growing up, the US men's team was weak, and she felt more connected to her Cuban heritage. She became an Argentina fan through friends and family. She also rooted for Uruguay in 2010, loving players like Diego Godín and Luis Suárez. She supports the US women's team for their passion and talent.
Oliver, 32, from Jersey: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Oliver's support for Bosnia began with Edin Dzeko, who helped Manchester City win the 2012 Premier League title. Dzeko's childhood during the siege of Sarajevo resonated with Oliver, who likes underdogs. He visited Bosnia last year, fell in love with Sarajevo, and celebrated when Bosnia qualified for the World Cup by beating Italy on penalties.
Angi, 35, from Kolkata: Brazil
Angi was born into a family of Brazil fans in Kolkata, a football-mad city where India has never qualified for the World Cup. He watched Brazil lose the 1998 final and win in 2002, with Ronaldo scoring twice. Football unites all classes in Kolkata, with unofficial Brazil tops everywhere. Angi believes India won't play in the World Cup in his lifetime but will always support the Seleção.
