The French outlet L’equipe issues an apology to Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku afta presenter’s comments regarding his world cup departure. Doku’s name hit the headlines once it had been announced that he would be departing the Belgium national squad temporarily so he would not miss the birth of his child.
L’Equipe presenter France Pierron became a controversial figure after she called Doku out for his decision.
She said: “You have the chance to participate in a World Cup, and there are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place”.
She added “But you’re going to leave all that to go and witness the birth of your child, which is a disgusting moment”.
Since then, Doku’s wife Shireen gave birth to boy named Prince where Doku was present for the birth. He will now be returning to the world cup where he will be available to play in their final group game against New Zealand.
As reported by the Guardian, Pierron issued an apology on social media. She said: “These remarks are solely my own and in no way reflect a collective position. I understand that they may have shocked, offended or hurt some of you, and I am sorry for that”.
The outlet also commented and issued an apology. They did choose to distance themselves from the remarks and state that they are not reflective of their values.
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