Jeremy Doku Row Explodes as French Presenter Reportedly Suspended Over Childbirth Comments

Belgium and Manchester City star Jeremy Doku has sparked widespread debate during the FIFA World Cup 2026 after expressing his intention to leave Belgium’s national team camp if necessary to be present for the birth of his first child.

Doku’s wife, Shireen, is expected to give birth in the second week of July, a period that could coincide with the latter stages of the FIFA World Cup should Belgium advance deep into the tournament.

The 24-year-old winger made it clear that family remains a priority despite the significance of the World Cup.

“It depends on when it happens, but it’s my first child, so I would definitely want to be there,” Doku said.

He also acknowledged the difficult balance between personal and professional commitments.

“Nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child. But I also know that football involves many other considerations,” he added.

French TV Comments Spark Backlash

The controversy escalated after French television presenter France Pierron, speaking on L’Équipe de Choc, criticized Doku’s stance and questioned whether a player should leave a World Cup camp for the birth of a child.

Pierron argued that many footballers would dream of being in Doku’s position and suggested that leaving the tournament would be difficult to justify.

Her remarks drew significant criticism, particularly after describing childbirth as a “disgusting moment” and suggesting that fathers are “useless” during the process.

“There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your place,” Pierron said while discussing Doku’s situation.

The comments quickly generated backlash across social media and within the football community.

L’Équipe Distances Itself from the Remarks

French media outlet L’Équipe publicly distanced itself from Pierron’s comments, stating that the remarks did not reflect the organization’s values.

The broadcaster issued an apology to both Jeremy Doku and its viewers. Reports in France later suggested that Pierron had been removed from subsequent broadcasts and suspended from appearing on air until further notice.

Pierron later released an apology, saying her comments had been misunderstood and that she never intended to undermine the role of fathers.

“I understand that they may have shocked, offended, or hurt some of you, and I am sorry,” Pierron said.

“My intention was never to minimize the place or role of fathers with their partners and children.”

Support for Doku Grows

Several public figures defended Doku’s position, including former boxer Brahim Asloum, who challenged the notion that fathers are unimportant during childbirth.

Asloum stressed that childbirth is an emotionally demanding experience and that the support of a partner can be invaluable.

England striker Ollie Watkins also backed Doku, insisting that the Belgian star has every right to prioritize his family.

“For a start, that’s not a way to label a birth,” Watkins said.

“He has all the right to go back and be there. I would want to do it. I don’t see the problem with it.”

Football Takes a Back Seat

Doku has already faced challenges during the tournament after missing Belgium’s match against Iran due to a chest infection.

Belgium are scheduled to face New Zealand in their next FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture, but discussion surrounding Doku has shifted beyond football.

The situation has ignited a wider debate about fatherhood, family priorities, work-life balance, and the pressures elite athletes face while competing at the highest level.