Jude Bellingham shares team bus driver’s letter with England fans after exiting World Cup
Jude Bellingham has delivered an emotional message to England fans following the team’s painful World Cup semi-final exit as he shared a heartfelt handwritten letter from the team’s bus driver on social media.
England’s dream of reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966 ended on Wednesday 15 after a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Argentina. Thomas Tuchel’s side looked set for victory after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead, but Lionel Messi inspired Argentina’s late comeback with two goals to seal England’s elimination.
Despite the heartbreaking result, Bellingham emerged as one of England’s best performers throughout the tournament. The Real Madrid midfielder finished with six goals, including a brace in the quarter-final win over Norway. Although he cut a a dejected figure after the final whistle in Atlantahe later returned to social media with a message of gratitude and optimism.
On Friday, July 17, Bellingham posted photos of a handwritten note from England team bus driver Michael Chandler that he received while the team was in Kansas. Using the letter as inspiration, the midfielder thanked fans for their unwavering support and insisted England’s journey is far from over.
“I’ve been really struggling to find the right words for yesterday and the last few weeks, but this pretty much hit the nail on the head from our driver in Kansas.
“Thank you for the incredible support from home and those who spent their hard earned money to travel to and from America.
“Don’t let this campaign end the unity and love we’ve seen in our country. Together we can achieve great things AND we will! We love you!”
The handwritten note, titled “The Lion’s Way”, is a poem reflecting on England’s World Cup campaign and the spirit shown by the team during the tournament. England’s campaign ends on Saturday when they face France in the play-off for third place.
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Published on:
17 Jul 2026 13:19 IST