‘Jewish’ Italian Soccer Star Mario Balotelli Wants Kiss From Queen Elizabeth
Image by getty images
Italy soccer star Mario Balotelli may have put the kiss of death on England with his winning goal at their World Cup opener, but now he wants royal recompense if he becomes their savior.
England’s second loss in Group D, to Uruguay on Thursday, left them on the brink of elimination.
But there is a glimmer of hope for Roy Hodgson’s men if Italy beat Costa Rica on Friday.
If Italy were to then defeat Uruguay, and England were to also beat Costa Rica, in the final group games on Tuesday, Wayne Rooney and co may slip through on goal difference.
“If we beat Costa Rica I want a kiss, obviously on the cheek, from the UK Queen,” the ever-cheeky Balotelli, 23, Tweeted after England’s defeat in Sao Paulo.
Balotelli’s adopted Italian mother is Jewish.
Well known to the English from his days – and antics – at Manchester City, it was Balotelli’s cool header that gave Italy a 2-1 win over them in Manaus.
While Princes William and Harry are known football-lovers and would no doubt love to meet the maverick Italian, Queen Elizabeth is more passionate about horse-racing and may not be over-enthused at the prospect of giving him a peck.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
