The White House has thrown its support behind England to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the United States was knocked out of the tournament by Belgium.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump and his administration would be happy to see England lift the trophy, citing the country's long wait for another World Cup title.
"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," Leavitt told reporters during a White House briefing.
"I do absolutely think the president would support that."
England won its only World Cup in 1966 and is now two matches away from ending the drought.
The Three Lions face defending champions Argentina in the semifinal after beating Norway 2-1 in extra time.
France and Spain will contest the other semifinal.
The United States, one of the tournament's co-hosts, was eliminated in the Round of 16 after a 4-1 defeat to Belgium despite controversy surrounding President Trump's intervention in the suspension of striker Folarin Balogun.
The incident sparked criticism from football officials and former players, who argued that politics should not influence sporting decisions.
Leavitt dismissed suggestions that the White House's support for England was unusual, saying the administration simply wanted to see a memorable end to the tournament.
England captain Harry Kane has previously spoken warmly about Trump after the two played golf together before the World Cup.
Kane described the U.S. president as "a good golfer" and said he enjoyed the experience.
England will meet Argentina on Wednesday for a place in the World Cup final.
The winner will face either France or Spain in Sunday's championship match, while the losing semifinalists will play in the third-place playoff.
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