According to statements about World Cup players
The broadcaster distances itself from statements made by its presenter
June 22, 2026 – 8:54 a.mReading time: 2 minutes
The Belgian Jérémy Doku doesn’t want to miss the birth of his child. Because the birth date is during the World Cup, it sparked a discussion that has consequences.
The French media “L’Équipe” commented on the statements made by its presenter France Pierron about Jérémy Doku. “L’Équipe distances itself from these statements, which are far from our values, and apologizes to the footballer concerned and to the audience in general.”
Belgian World Cup rider Doku is expecting his first child with his wife Shireen Erin Lyannda Raymond. The 24-year-old had announced that he wanted to be present at the birth. The expected birth date is in the second week of July, roughly around the World Cup quarter-finals, in which Belgium hopes to take part.
Pierron had criticized Doku’s attitude. “You have the chance to take part in one World Cup to participate – there are hundreds of players who would kill for it. At birth you only appear in a supporting role,” she said on the show.
“I’m sorry for that”
Pierron received a lot of headwind for this. She apologized on Instagram on Saturday: “These statements are solely my own opinions and in no way reflect a collective position. I understand that they may have shocked, offended or hurt some of you, and for that I am sorry.”
The French media journalist Clément Garin reported on his platform “CGTV” that Pierron was suspended from the broadcast on Monday. However, there is no confirmation of this yet. At the weekend she was allowed to present for “L’Équipe”.
Doku was unable to take part in Sunday’s game against Iran (0-0). But the reason was not the birth of his child – the player of Manchester City was sick. After the opening 1:1 against Egypt The Belgians disappointed again in their rather weak group and have to win against New Zealand on Saturday in order to safely reach the knockout rounds.
