DAZN journalist Ambre Godillon received a bullet in the face during the match between Marseille and Auxerre, which OM lost on Friday evening (3-1) at the Vélodrome.
Just before half-time, the former PSG TV presenter was the victim of a bullet hitting her under the eye, while OM were 3-0 down to AJA. The Vélodrome announcer asked the crowd to stop throwing projectiles.
“A little shocked by this”
Questioned at the end of the meeting by her colleague Smaïl Bouabdellah, the journalist explained that she had received “a bullet in the face”. “I really don’t know what to say. A little shocked by that,” he added.
Smaïl Bouabdellah clarified that Olympique Marseille apologized after this incident.
Q&A: Understanding the Impact of Violence in Sports with DAZN Journalist Ambre Godillon
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Thank you for joining us today, Ambre. We’re here to discuss a deeply concerning incident that occurred during the recent match between Marseille and Auxerre, where you were hit in the face by a projectile. Can you walk us through what happened during the game?
Ambre Godillon: Thank you for having me. It was a shocking experience. Just before half-time, while covering the match, I was struck under the eye by what I believe was a bullet. The atmosphere in the Vélodrome was tense, especially with Marseille trailing 3-0. The announcer even urged the crowd to cease throwing projectiles, but unfortunately, it escalated to a dangerous level.
Interviewer: That’s truly alarming. What immediate reactions did you have after being hit?
Ambre Godillon: Honestly, I was a little shocked. My focus had been on the game and the reporting aspect, and then suddenly, I found myself in a very dangerous situation. It throws you off balance. After the incident, I composed myself and immediately reported it to my team for safety procedures.
Interviewer: This incident raises important questions about safety in sports venues. What do you believe are the implications of such violence on sports journalism and the broader industry?
Ambre Godillon: This kind of violence is alarming not just for journalists but for everyone involved in sports—players, staff, and fans alike. It can create a pervasive atmosphere of fear, which ultimately undermines the integrity of the sport. For journalists, we often enter stadiums believing we are safe, and this trust must be restored. I think it highlights the urgent need for better security protocols in sports venues and policies preventing fan violence.
Interviewer: How has Olympique Marseille responded to this incident, and do you think their actions are sufficient?
Ambre Godillon: Olympique Marseille did extend an apology, which is an essential first step. However, I believe it’s crucial for them, and other clubs as well, to implement concrete measures to prevent such incidents, including stricter security checks and fan engagement programs to educate about sportsmanship and respect.
Interviewer: As someone who has experienced this firsthand, what practical advice would you give to fellow journalists covering live sports events?
Ambre Godillon: Safety should always come first. Always be aware of your surroundings and ensure that you have a clear escape route. It’s also important to stay connected with your colleagues and inform them immediately if you feel unsafe. Moreover, advocating for policy changes and actively participating in panels discussing safety can amplify our voices as journalists in the sports community.
Interviewer: Thank you, Ambre, for your insights and for sharing your experience with us. It’s crucial that we address the challenges faced by sports journalists and ensure a safer environment for everyone in the industry.
Ambre Godillon: Thank you for having me. I hope that by sharing this experience, we can foster discussions that will lead to improved safety protocols in sports venues.