German tourist goes viral sampling Chilis, Buc-ees and other US chains on World Cup road trip

A German soccer fan has accidentally become America’s newest tourism ambassador — one Taco Bell run, a Buc-ee’s pilgrimage and a Chili’s dinner at a time.Freddy, who posts on X as @FreddyLA7, has exploded in popularity after documenting his six-week World Cup road trip across the Southern United States with the kind of wide-eyed enthusiasm usually reserved for Disney World.In just the past day alone, he’s picked up thousands of followers — including a few famous athletes — as Yanks collectively adopt him as the internet’s “favorite exchange student.”His adventure began before he ever set foot in the US.“The World Cup trip starts tomorrow,” Freddy wrote on June 3 alongside photos of a suitcase stuffed almost entirely with soccer jerseys.“Baggage all packed for 6 weeks in the USA and Canada.

Traveling with hand luggage only, and 90% of it is jerseys.”After a 24-hour layover in Dublin — where he squeezed in visits to Temple Bar, Trinity College and other landmarks — he declared he had “made the most” of his stop before heading stateside.Even before arriving, he noticed World Cup fever.“We’re all wearing our Germany jerseys and so many people at the airport keep asking us about the World Cup,” he noted.“There are already so many fans here in jerseys too, especially Scots.”His first glimpse of New York City’s skyline from the plane wasn’t ideal, “but we still managed to get a small glimpse of the skyline,” he said.Moments later, spotting FIFA-themed merchandise inside JFK Airport, his wallet was already in danger: “Just take my money.”From there, Freddy and his friends flew to Atlanta, where his running commentary quickly won over Americans amused by his amazement at everyday life.Driving past Mercedes-Benz Stadium, he could barely contain himself: “What a f—g stadium.” He also noticed World Cup advertisements plastered across the city.“Even though the first World Cup game in Atlanta is still 9 days away...