France Pierron slams Jeremy Doku’s World Cup leave for birth

French sports journalist France Pierron has openly criticised Belgian forward Jeremy Doku for considering a trip to England during the World Cup to attend the birth of his child. Pierron argued that the tournament is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity that Doku would abandon for the delivery.

Pierron delivered her comments from the studio of L’Équipe TV, directly confronting former Olympic boxing champion Brahim Asloum. “Het WK is een kinderdroom voor velen, en hij gaat dat allemaal verlaten om aanwezig te zijn bij de geboorte van z’n kind?”

Asloum immediately challenged Pierron’s view, emphasizing the personal significance of a newborn. “Als ik me de komst van mijn kind voorstel.. En de vreugde die dat met zich meebrengt. Ik zou meteen op het vliegtuig stappen en onderweg push-ups doen om zo snel mogelijk thuis te geraken. Een baby is gewoon je hele leven. Sport betekent ook alles voor mij, maar een geboorte van je kind kan je niet opnieuw beleven.”

Jeremy Doku is due to become a father in early July, with the expected birth falling within the World Cup knockout phase. The timing coincides with the round of 16 and quarter‑final matches, and Doku could theoretically travel to England between fixtures.

Doku acknowledged his dual responsibilities, stating, “Ik weet ook dat er veel komt kijken bij voetbal.” He also referenced his wife Shireen Doku, noting the importance of being present for their newborn.

According to the information provided, Doku is not slated to miss any World Cup match. If complications arise, he could arrange his return to England between two games, ensuring the Belgian national team, known as the Rode Duivel, retains his services.

The article also links to other stories, including a piece on Real Madrid’s transformation of Vinícius Junior. Another linked feature discusses secret messages involving LeBron James, highlighting cross‑sport intrigue.

The report was written by sport journalist Jordi De Koninck for . It was published on 20 June 2026 at 11:46, with a last update at 12:28.