At 19, England’s Jude Bellingham gets million-pound bridge in his name after stellar performance at World Cup

There is an ongoing bidding war among top English teams targeting the 19-year-old Jude Bellingham who was one of the bright spots in the just-ended 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Manchester United, for instance, is reported to be offering £100 million ($121 million) for the Borussia Dortmund midfielder to make a move to the club. Other teams such as Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid are also making overtures at him, as reported by EuroSport.

But, what is official is the announcement by HS2 Limited to name the Curzon 2 bridge in recognition of Bellingham’s sterling performance at the World Cup. Bellingham entered the annals of history as England’s second youngest World Cup goal scorer after shooting the ball several times at the back of the net during their match against Iran. He comes after Michael Owen who was the youngest player to have scored on such a global stage.  

The 150-meter-long bridge which would be part of a skyline is being constructed in the England soccer star’s home city, according to Daily Mail. The designs of the railway bridge were unveiled this month when England played France in their world cup quarter-final match. The viaduct which enters Birmingham’s Curzon Street station will also be joined with an outstanding 25-meter high curved truss.

HS2 Limited’s Design Director, Kay Hughes, said the objective to erect such a bridge is to give rebirth to the city’s industrial heritage. Bellingham is expected to represent that vision and cultural pride that have existed in Birmingham city for centuries.

Hughes also indicated that the skyline will also have a light installation which will be crafted by British artist Liz West. The installation will be known as ‘Out of the Blue’, signifying the city’s traditional colors. He added that the purpose is to portray Birmingham’s legacy as an iconic and thriving commercial hub befitting of its status.

He explained that it is not all about recognizing the city’s industrial heritage but also positioning it as a tourism hub with a breathtaking skyline that is expected to leave a lasting impression on the public.  

Artist West said the essence of the design is to capture the symbolism and abstract meanings shared by people, the spaces, and the color which represent the aspirations and experiential moments of Birmingham city. She explained that the choice of color and light is to establish a sense of belonging and movement whether in the train or public spaces for the people.

HS2 Ltd’s Head of Art and Culture Anne Mullins said the Bellingham Bridge after its completion will become an important landmark in England whose artistic architecture will be celebrated for years to come.