After 16,000 miles, a Germany fan reached Houston for the World Cup

After biking roughly 16,000 miles through 27 countries on a journey around the world, Germany soccer fan Jakob Alberti checked off a longtime dream in Houston: watching Germany play at the World Cup.

Why it matters: Alberti, 26, said it best: "Because the World Cup is just the biggest sports event in the world, and for me it's just about people getting united. All countries come and celebrate together, have fun together."

Catch up quick: Alberti set off from Germany in August 2024.

The journey took him across Europe, Asia and Australia before he flew to Los Angeles and biked to Houston over the past month.

Along the way, he navigated floods, bike breakdowns, illnesses and shifting political situations.

What they're saying: After Germany's opening game against Curaçao, he told Axios: "I feel amazing. My first World Cup match ever. It was great. I was smiling all match long. It was 10,000% worth it."

Stunning stat: He has run a marathon in every country he's visited so far.

During the World Cup, he's adding another challenge: running 10 kilometers for every goal Germany scores.

"That might also lead up to some crazy ultramarathons in the next couple of weeks," he said.

What's next: Alberti hopes to follow Germany to matches in New York and Toronto, even though he doesn't yet have tickets.

After the tournament, he'll return to Houston, pick up his bicycle and continue toward New York, then North Africa before eventually heading back to Germany.

Fun facts to go: His favorite country was Iraq."The people were so crazy friendly."

He's enjoyed Houston the past week and half, but isn't sold on cycling in the Bayou City. "I would say it's not really made for bicycles."