L’Équipe distances itself from comments about Jérémy Doku and apologizes

Paris – 22.06.2026: The French sports newspaper L’Équipe has distanced itself from the controversial comments made by its presenter France Pierron and apologized to the Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku. Pierron had criticized the decision of the 24-year-old Doku during the show “L’Équipe de Choc” on Friday to travel to London during the football World Cup for the birth of his first child. She called the birth a “disgusting moment when the father is useless” and questioned whether Doku was setting his priorities correctly.

These remarks met with widespread criticism, especially in Belgium. L’Équipe responded promptly, stating that Pierron’s comments did not reflect the company’s values. In an official statement, the newspaper distanced itself from the statements and apologized to Doku as well as to the audience.

It has now been confirmed that Doku did indeed travel to London for the birth of his son. The Belgian football association confirmed that Doku traveled with the team’s consent and under medical supervision to be at his wife’s side on this special occasion. The player is expected to return to the team on Tuesday evening.

The discussion about Doku’s decision has also elicited international reactions. English footballer Ollie Watkins defended Doku’s choice and emphasized the importance of the father’s presence at the birth of his child. He criticized the description of the birth as “disgusting” and stressed that such personal decisions should be respected.

The controversy has sparked debate not only in Belgium but also in France and internationally. It raises questions about balancing professional life and family obligations and highlights the different perspectives that play a role in such personal decisions.

L’Équipe has announced that it will review the situation internally and take appropriate measures to ensure that such incidents are avoided in the future. The newspaper emphasized that it respects the privacy and personal decisions of players and does not tolerate such comments.

The events surrounding Jérémy Doku and the reactions to them underline the complexity that arises when personal life events collide with the demands of professional sports. They also shed light on the media’s responsibility to handle such topics respectfully and sensitively.

In conclusion, it should be noted that Jérémy Doku’s decision to be present at the birth of his first child, despite the controversy, is regarded by many as understandable and humane. The reactions of the media and the public reflect the different values and priorities involved in such personal decisions.