Belgian in Chicago represents Red Devils on James Corden's US World Cup show

Leentje De Leeuw describes her World Cup adventure as "surreal." The Belgian native, who has lived in Chicago for 12 years, is now an official Belgian supporter on a major football show hosted by comedian James Corden on the American network Fox. Her Belgian pride has only grown since she moved to the US.

De Leeuw found her way onto the show through a Facebook casting call. Initially suspecting a scam, she soon learned that the producers of 'FIFA World Cup on Fox After Hours with James Corden' were seeking fans from around the globe to represent their national teams. After a series of interviews and video submissions, De Leeuw emerged as the most compelling Belgian fan.

"I am very active in the Belgian-American community here," she told VRT NWS. De Leeuw, who moved to Chicago 12 years ago, maintains strong ties to Belgium as a transatlantic business consultant and city guide. She also serves as president of the Belgian American Club, organizing watch parties in Chicago.

Her passion for all things Belgian, from beer and chocolate to fries, is evident. She jokingly states she stands her ground when people mistakenly attribute Belgian artists like Stromae or Jacques Brel to France. It's this very enthusiasm that led comedian James Corden to invite her to cheer on the Red Devils.

De Leeuw appears on Fox after each match. As long as Belgium remains in the tournament, she will be a panelist on Corden's show. "In the beginning, you are one of many countries. Now that only 7 teams are left, I get to appear every evening. It's so much fun!" she exclaimed. She sees a parallel between the tournament's theme of surrealism, evident in absurd scores and the Belgian team's jerseys, and her own journey on Fox.

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Surreëel.