TV host apologizes for slamming soccer star who left World Cup for baby’s birth
A prominent French sports broadcaster is apologizing after facing widespread backlash for criticizing Belgian soccer star Jérémy Doku’s plan to leave the World Cup to attend the birth of his first child.
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The controversy began during a segment on the French sports network L’Équipe, when presenter France Pierron argued that participating in the World Cup was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should take precedence over family obligations.
“There are hundreds of footballers who would love to be in his position,” Pierron said during the broadcast, referring to Doku, the 24-year-old Manchester City winger.
“It’s truly a special moment, a childhood dream come true. You’re living out a childhood dream,” she said. “Yet you’re going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child — a disgusting moment, if you’ll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless.”
Doku previously told Reuters that he planned to leave Belgium’s World Cup camp if necessary to be present when his wife, Shireen, gave birth.
“It’s my first child, so I would definitely want to be there,” he said. “Nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child.”
The backlash against Pierron was swift. Critics argued that her comments reflected outdated assumptions about fatherhood and overlooked the importance of parental support during childbirth.
The Professional Footballers’ Association said demands placed on players should not be at the expense of “fundamental family moments.”
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“While every situation is different, we believe players should be supported in balancing their professional responsibilities with important life events,” a PFA spokesperson told the BBC.
“Supporting players as people, not just athletes, is an important part of creating a healthy professional working environment.”
L’Équipe publicly distanced itself from Pierron’s remarks, saying they were “far removed” from the organization’s values and apologized to both Doku and to viewers. Multiple reports indicated that Pierron would remain off the air until early July.
In a statement posted on X, Pierron acknowledged the reaction and expressed regret.
“These remarks are solely my own and in no way reflect a collective position,” she wrote. “I understand that they may have shocked, offended, or hurt some of you, and I am sorry for that.”
Days later, the controversy gave way to happier news. According to the Belgian Football Association, Doku returned to London in time for the birth of his son, Praise, before rejoining Belgium’s World Cup squad. The federation said the mother and baby “were doing wonderfully.”
