World Cup Broadcaster France Pierron Reportedly Suspended

A view of the pitch during a FIFA World Cup Group C match between Brazil and Morocco at New York New Jersey Stadium on Saturday, June 13, 2026, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.© Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey&period;com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

World Cup Broadcaster France Pierron Reportedly Suspended

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated Jun 22, 2026 8:53 PM ET

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World Cup broadcaster France Pierron has reportedly been disciplined for her remarks on a player choosing to leave his club for the birth of his child.

Belgian star Jeremy Doku told reporters that he would leave the World Cup in order to attend the birth of his child. It's a big moment for him personally, of course. However, it comes during the biggest soccer tournament in the world.

Pierron, who works for L’Equipe, made it clear that she wasn't a fan of the decision.

“It’s truly a special moment, a childhood dream come true,” Pierron said, according to People. “You’re living out a childhood dream, yet you’re going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child — a disgusting moment, if you’ll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless.”

Pierron quickly faced backlash for her comments.

“The hardest thing I have ever done in this lifetime — and the thing that I am most proud of — is bringing my baby earthside. And I do not know how I would have done that without my husband beside me. Birth can be extremely complicated; anything can happen," Caroline Salame, who played in the U-17 World Cup, said.

Pierron is reportedly facing punishment

Pierron is reportedly facing discipline, as she won't appear on the air through at least July 3, according to reports.

“L’Équipe distances itself from these remarks, which are far removed from its values, and apologizes to the footballer concerned and more broadly to its audience,” L’Équipe said in a statement.

Pierron, meanwhile, is apologizing.

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

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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