Published：Jun 20, 17:25Last updated：Jun 22, 19:40

Doku Sparks Debate Over World Cup Absence for Childbirth

Jun. 20, 2026 17:25

French journalist Françoise Pierron criticized Belgian forward Jérémy Doku for planning to leave the World Cup to attend his wife's childbirth. Pierron argued that Doku's absence would harm the team, while colleague Brahim Asloum defended the decision, saying family support could boost his performance. Doku, 24, plays for Manchester City and is a key player for Belgium.

Summarized

10News

7Media

Jun. 22, 2026 18:16

Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku, who left the national team's World Cup camp to attend the birth of his child, became a father. The Belgian Football Association congratulated Doku and confirmed he would rejoin the team for preparations for the next match. The incident sparked controversy after a journalist criticized Doku's decision, leading to her suspension from broadcasts.

Jun. 22, 2026 19:40

L’Équipe has apologized to Jérémy Doku after a pundit criticized his decision to leave the World Cup for his child's birth. Doku returned to London in time for the birth of his son, Praise. The Belgian federation confirmed the player's timely arrival.

Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku's decision to temporarily leave the 2026 World Cup camp to attend his child's birth has ignited a heated debate about balancing professional sports commitments with personal milestones. The Manchester City winger faced criticism from French journalist Françoise Pierron, who called his choice "disgusting," while others defended the move as a legitimate family priority. RIA Novosti+2

⚽ Player's Decision

Doku, a key player for Belgium, left the national team's training base to be present for the birth of his first child, Praise, in London. The Belgian Football Association supported his temporary absence and confirmed he would rejoin the squad for upcoming matches. This marked the first instance of a high-profile player leaving an active World Cup campaign for such a reason. RIA Novosti+1

📰 Media Backlash

L’Équipe TV presenter Françoise Pierron faced suspension after her on-air criticism of Doku, where she dismissed fathers' presence at childbirth as unnecessary. The sports media outlet later disavowed her comments and apologized to Doku. The incident sparked widespread social media backlash, with many defending the footballer's decision. Toronto Star+2

🤝 Community Support

The football community overwhelmingly supported Doku, including teammate Brahim Asloum who argued family support could enhance performance. Fans and fellow players praised the Belgian federation for accommodating the player's personal needs during the tournament. The case has become a benchmark for discussions about athlete welfare policies in elite sports. BBC News+2

⏱️ Tournament Impact

Doku's absence risked affecting Belgium's quarterfinal preparations if they advanced, though the federation ensured his prompt return. The incident highlighted tensions between rigid tournament schedules and modern athlete-family dynamics, setting a precedent for future World Cup participation rules regarding personal emergencies. BBC News+2

L’ÉquipeJérémy DokuManchester CityFrançoise PierronBelgian Football Association