Thompson’s trip has been funded in part by money he once spent on alcohol. After a hospital admission, he was warned that continuing to drink at the same level could leave him with less than six months to live. His wife and family then helped him enter rehabilitation, and he continues to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
The World Cup journey has become more than a football holiday. It represents a life that once seemed in danger of being cut short, with Thompson travelling across North America and taking in landmarks, baseball and city visits alongside England’s campaign.
His flags have made him easy to spot. One carries the Leicester phrase “When you’re smiling”, while another reads “Hinckley Foxes” and features three Leicester City badges.
“The flags are my love for Leicester City as I go home and away,” Thompson said. “I also love the place I live, Hinckley. I'm proud of both.”
That blend of club loyalty and national hope has followed him through the tournament. Yet his optimism remains measured, shaped by the unpredictability of knockout football.
“If Leicester can win the Premier League, why not England win the World Cup?” Thompson said.
The next test is Mexico, and Thompson will be there to watch it. Whether England continue towards the final or fall short, his own journey has already reached a remarkable chapter - with the quarter-final now the next destination on both the footballing and personal itinerary.