French sports outlet L’Équipe apologises to Belgium winger Jérémy Doku after a presenter’s on-air remarks sparked criticism and online backlash. The controversy follows Doku’s stated plan to leave the World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child. French presenter France Pierron criticised the decision on the television show “L’Équipe de Choc,” describing childbirth as “disgusting” and saying the father is “useless.” Multiple outlets report the remarks triggered public anger on social media and drew support for Doku from other footballers.
L’Équipe distances itself from the comments, saying they do not reflect its values, and issues an apology directly to Doku. In parallel, Belgian football authorities say Doku makes it back to London in time to be with his wife Shireen for the birth of their son, named Praise, who is reported to be born on Monday. Other reporting also notes Pierron is stood down from her show following the controversy, as broadcasters and media leaders respond to the backlash.
