France Pierron has apologized for her comments made on L'Équipe TV regarding Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku. The journalist had reacted to the player's decision to leave the World Cup to join his partner and be present for the birth of their child. Her statements provoked numerous reactions. She had notably asserted that the birth was "a disgusting moment" and that the father "It's useless" in this context.
A message published to clarify his remarks
In response to the criticism, France Pierron posted a message on X to clarify her position. In it, she explains that she understands her words may have offended or hurtful people.
She states: In light of the numerous reactions following my comments on “L'Équipe de Choc” regarding Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku, I would like to clarify a few points.
She goes on to state that she was expressing a personal opinion within the context of a debate.
An apology, but a firm stance.
France Pierron apologized, while confirming that it was indeed her personal opinion. She clarified:
"These remarks are solely my own and in no way reflect a collective position. My intention has never been to minimize the place or role of fathers with their partners and children."
The phrase that sparked the controversy
The journalist's intervention sparked reactions after she took a very strong stance on the choice of Jérémy Doku. France Pierron had declared on air: “When you have the chance to participate in a World Cup, there are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place (…) and you’re going to leave all that to witness the birth of your child, which is a disgusting moment, excuse my language, where the father is useless, he has a role as an extra.”
Brahim Asloum responds live
On the show, Brahim Asloum, a former boxer and commentator, challenged this position. He responded by emphasizing the importance of the father's role at the time of birth. He notably stated: "What do you mean, we're useless? Who's encouraging this?"
A precedent set during the Olympic Games
The journalist had already sparked controversy in 2024 by discussing the arrangements planned for athletes wishing to care for their children during the Olympic Games. This new controversy has reignited criticism of her stances on the role of parents in elite sports.
