French TV presenter France Pierron has apologised after facing backlash for criticising Belgium and Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku's intention to leave the World Cup to attend the birth of his first child. Pierron, a presenter on L'Equipe channel, sparked outrage after calling Doku's plan 'outrageous' and claiming 'the father serves no purpose' during childbirth.
Doku's wife Shireen is due to give birth in the second week of July, which coincides with the World Cup quarter-finals. Belgium have a strong chance of reaching that stage. Last week, the 24-year-old made clear his desire to be present for the birth, though a travel plan from the USA to England and back had not been finalised.
Doku's stance on family and football
'It depends on when it happens, but it's my first child, so I would definitely want to be there,' Doku told Reuters. 'If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child. But I also know that football involves many other considerations. I know the federation supports its players and understands their situations. We'll see what we can do.'
Players leaving major tournaments for childbirth is not unprecedented. Phil Foden briefly left England's camp during Euro 2024 for the same reason.
Pierron's controversial comments and apology
Appearing on L'Équipe de choc, Pierron launched a scathing attack: 'This outrages me. When you are lucky enough to appear at a World Cup, there are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place. It's a unique moment, a childhood dream come true. And you're going to walk away from that to be at the birth of your child? You can't miss a World Cup… And now, you're not going to the match to cut an umbilical cord? I'm sorry, the father serves no purpose. He is an extra. He just holds your hand and takes a photo. You're going to take a 10-hour flight, exhaust yourself, go through the wringer emotionally… how can you return to play after that? The baby will always be there.'
Her remarks triggered fierce backlash on social media. On Saturday evening, Pierron issued a statement on X, translated from French: 'In light of the very numerous reactions following my comments in “L'Équipe de Choc” regarding Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku, I wish to provide a few clarifications. In it, I expressed a personal opinion, within the framework of a debate. These remarks commit only me and in no way reflect a collective position. I understand that they may have shocked, hurt, or wounded some of you, and I am sorry for that. My intention has never been to minimise the place or role of fathers with their partner and their child.'
Other players in similar situations
Doku is not alone among World Cup players facing this dilemma. Belgium teammate Brandon Mechele's wife is also due to give birth in late July. Belgium began their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and face Iran in Los Angeles on Sunday night, though Doku will miss the match due to illness.
