The $100 million Florida resort with a Trump connection

The England national football team has chosen the Belgrove Resort in West Palm Beach , Florida, as their training base for the upcoming World Cup. The high-end resort is co-owned by Steve Witkoff, a real estate billionaire and close friend of former President Donald Trump, who also serves as Trump's special envoy to the Middle East.

The selection has drawn attention due to Witkoff's proximity to Trump, including being present during the assassination attempt on the former president in September 2024.

The resort features luxurious amenities including a golf course designed by Nicklaus Design, mulltiple pools, a spa, and several racquet sports courts.

Who is Steve Witkoff?

Steve Witkoff is a New York real estate magnate and long-time confidant of Trump. He was golfing with Trump during the September 2024 assassination attempt at the former president's nearby West Palm Beach course .

Witkoff now serves as Trump's special envoy to the Middle East and has been involved in high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, including talks with Iran and Russia.

What does this mean for the World Cup?

England's 12-day Florida training camp precedes their departure to the World Cup headquarters in Kansas City.

Their tournament schedule includes a June 6 opener against New Zealand in Tampa,followed by a match with Costa Rica in Orlando on June 10, and a crucial group-stage game against Croatia in Dallas on June 17.

The choice of the Belgrove Resort highlights the team's emphasis on acclimatization and premium facilities, but it also spotlights the connections between the sporting world and politically influential figures.

Open questions

Who is the unnamed suspect, Ryan Routh, and what motivated him to attempt to assassinate Trump?

What are the implications of Witkoff's role in the dramatic events of the assassination attempt for his position as Trump's special envoy?