beIN Sports Suspends Pundit Over Sexist Remarks aimed at Women’s Football Director
beIN Sports swiftly suspended one of its commentators following deeply offensive and sexist comments made about Gaëtane Thiney, the sports director of paris FC Féminines. The incident, which occurred during a broadcast on Saturday, has sparked widespread condemnation and a strong show of support for Thiney from her club and its leadership.
The controversy unfolded during coverage of the Paris FC-olympique de Marseille match, which ended in a 2-2 draw. After a camera focused on Thiney in the stands at the Jean-Bouin stadium, the commentator – a former French international who has worked wiht the Franco-Qatari channel since 2016 – initially suggested she appeared “not very attentive.” he then made a highly inappropriate remark, stating he had “the impression that she was talking about lingerie.”
Paris FC immediately responded with a forceful statement, “strongly condemning” the comments as “sexist and inappropriate.” the club emphasized that such remarks where in direct opposition to the values it champions, reiterating its “commitment to open, inclusive and respectful football.”
The club’s president,Pierre Ferracci,further amplified this message during an appearance on RMC’s Stephen Brunch program on February 1st. “We reacted very strongly,” Ferracci stated. “we need to respect these rules of decency in society. We are fans of women’s football, we have invested a lot, we have been in the Champions League for four years. Gaëtane Thiney is a respected icon among us.”
Ferracci underscored Thiney’s importance to the institution, noting her significant contributions within the club. He also praised beIN Sports for its swift response.”Like us, the channel reacted strongly and that is very good. Daniel Bravo made unspeakable comments and I think he is aware of it. It shocked us a lot and it shocked our partners, our supporters, and all those who love women’s football.”
the suspension of the commentator sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within the broadcasting network.This incident underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability in addressing sexism within the sports industry and beyond, and highlights the growing prominence and respect afforded to women’s football and its leaders.
Here’s a breakdown answering the “Why, Who, What, and How” questions:
* Who: Daniel Bravo, a commentator for beIN Sports, made sexist remarks about Gaëtane Thiney, the sports director of Paris FC Féminines.
* What: Bravo made inappropriate and sexist comments during a broadcast, suggesting Thiney appeared “not very attentive” and then stating he had “the impression that she was talking about lingerie.”
* Why: The comments were deemed sexist, inappropriate, and contrary to the values of both Paris FC and beIN Sports. They sparked outrage and condemnation.
* How did it end?: beIN Sports swiftly suspended Bravo following the incident. Paris FC issued a strong statement condemning the remarks and praising beIN Sports’ response. The incident highlights the growing intolerance of sexism in sports broadcasting.
