As England’s latest World Cup campaign gets underway, football icon John Barnes has delivered a memorable rendition of the nation’s most beloved football anthem from one of London’s most recognisable landmarks.
The former England midfielder, who earned 79 international caps and scored 11 goals for the Three Lions, performed the legendary 1990 hit World in Motion on top of the London Eye, creating a spectacular moment high above the capital’s skyline.
Originally recorded by New Order for England’s Italia ’90 World Cup campaign, World in Motion remains the band’s only UK number-one single and one of the country’s most enduring football anthems.
John Barnes Takes World in Motion to New Heights
Barnes was joined by the London A Cappella Collective for a unique vocal interpretation of the classic song before delivering his famous rap verse, a moment that remains instantly recognisable to football fans more than three decades later.
Speaking about the experience, Barnes said the performance captured the excitement and optimism that England fans feel whenever the national team heads into a major tournament.
The performance comes as supporters across the country prepare to back England in their opening World Cup fixture against Croatia, with football fever already sweeping across London.
London Eye Launches ‘Singing for England’ Experience
To celebrate England’s World Cup journey, the London Eye is introducing a special Singing for England pod experience, giving guests the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the capital while taking part in a football-themed singalong.
Hosted by the London A Cappella Collective, the experience will feature a soundtrack of iconic football songs including:
- World in Motion
- Three Lions
- Sweet Caroline
- Additional crowd-pleasing tournament anthems
According to London Eye Senior General Manager Robin Goodchild, the attraction wanted to create a unique way for fans to celebrate England’s World Cup campaign while experiencing one of London’s most famous landmarks.
Dates and How to Book
The Singing for England experience will take place on:
- Friday 19 June
- Saturday 20 June
- Friday 26 June
Visitors can purchase standard London Eye admission tickets and register their interest at the VIP desk on the day.
For official information and bookings, visit: London Eye – Singing for England Experience
Tickets start from £29.
More Football-Themed Attractions Across London
The football celebrations extend beyond the London Eye, with several Merlin attractions embracing the tournament spirit this summer.
Fans can visit Madame Tussauds London to come face-to-face with England captain Harry Kane and enter competitions to win signed memorabilia.
Meanwhile, football-loving families can head to LEGOLAND Windsor Resort for a special LEGO® World Cup event featuring brick-built football legends and interactive activities.
Learn more:
Why World in Motion Still Matters
More than 35 years after its original release, World in Motion continues to hold a special place in English football culture. The song, featuring Barnes’ iconic rap and New Order’s unmistakable synth-pop sound, remains one of the most celebrated football songs ever recorded and regularly resurfaces during major tournaments.
With Barnes now taking the anthem to the top of the London Eye, the classic track has once again become part of England’s tournament story as supporters dream of another memorable World Cup run.
