Former Viral World Cup Fan Reinvents Career After Controversy

Axelle Despiegelaere shot to fame at the 2014 World Cup

She landed a modelling contract with L'Oreal

Axelle Despiegelaere, who rose to fame as a viral Belgium supporter during the 2014 World Cup, has transitioned into a new chapter of her life years after her sudden internet stardom. At seventeen years old, she became an overnight sensation when television cameras captured her cheering in a devil horn hat during Belgium's one zero victory against Russia at the Maracana Stadium. The viral traction quickly caught the attention of cosmetics giant L'Oreal, who signed her for a social media campaign in Belgium.

Axelle has nearly 30k followers on Instagram

She is now married to Emile Steyaert

However, her modeling career faced immediate controversy when she posted a Facebook photo of herself holding a rifle next to a hunted oryx, accompanied by a caption joking about hunting Americans ahead of Belgium's round of sixteen match against the USA. Following a severe public backlash, L'Oreal quickly ended the collaboration, stating that her ad hoc contract had been completed.

Now married to Emile Steyaert, the Ghent-based football fan has built a career as a professional event planner, organizing weddings and glamorous occasions. Despite the past controversy, her passion for football remains intact, and she continues to actively support the Belgian national team during major international tournaments.