United States President Donald Trump’s representative for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Andrew Giuliani, has backed England to lift the trophy if the host nation fails to win the tournament.
Speaking with the Daily Mail, Giuliani said England would make worthy champions during America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, expressing confidence in the Three Lions’ ability to end their long wait for World Cup success.
“If the United States can’t win on our 250th birthday, then a great storyline would be the English coming to America and winning during our anniversary celebrations,” Giuliani said.
“It’s been 60 years of hurt, I gather, for England, so that would be a beautiful victory for them if they won the tournament.
“I do absolutely think England can go all the way. They are one of the top teams left now.”
Giuliani also revealed that President Trump has been closely following England captain Harry Kane’s performances, attributing the president’s knowledge of football partly to his son, Barron Trump’s interest in the sport.
Recalling a previous encounter, Giuliani said Trump once played golf with former England striker Wayne Rooney.
“A few years ago, I was among a group of people playing golf with President Trump, and Wayne Rooney was with us. The president knows his football pretty well, and I think that’s through his relationship with Barron,” he said.
Giuliani identified Kane as England’s key player, insisting the striker will be central to their hopes of winning the World Cup.
“Harry Kane is the number one goalscorer for England, and if they are going to win the tournament, he will be the main reason.
“He is one of the main players on the team, and he and Jude Bellingham are outstanding athletes. England strike me as being an exceedingly well-balanced team. They have the potential to win if they believe in themselves.”
Giuliani’s remarks come after Kane disclosed that he previously played golf with President Trump in Palm Beach, Florida, in late 2024.
Describing the invitation as a surreal experience, the England captain praised Trump’s golfing ability.
“When the president invites you somewhere, it’s a pretty surreal experience just to meet him and obviously play golf with him,” Kane said.
“His golf is pretty good, to be honest. I hope I can play golf as well as him when I’m his age. It was a unique experience, and I’m grateful that he invited me.”
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