Was undercover in Baden-Baden. This is the true story of England's notorious WAGs

The piece places readers at the Brenners Park Hotel in Baden‑Baden during June 2006, as journalists chase exclusive glimpses of England’s Wives and Girlfriends during the World Cup. The author, Grazia's news and features director, explains how WAGs became the era’s marquee story, tied to designer bags and fashion campaigns. The narrative conveys the pre‑Instagram paparazzi culture and the way coverage reflected a broader shift in British celebrity culture and spending. Beckham, Ashley Cole, and Rio Ferdinand’s crossover into multimillion‑pound campaigns illustrates football’s rise as entertainment.