Doku Sparks Controversy in Belgium After Decision to Leave National Team Camp

Belgian national team player Jeremy Doku has sparked widespread controversy in his country during the 2026 World Cup, after announcing his decision to leave the national team camp to attend the birth of his child, expected to occur in the coming days. This has opened a significant discussion within the sports and media circles.

Doku confirmed in statements carried by Belgian media that he wishes to be by his partner's side during the birth if it occurs during the tournament, saying: "No father should miss that."

The French newspaper 'L'Équipe', as reported in the ongoing debate, pointed out that the controversy has extended to the French media as well, where journalist France Pierron considered the World Cup a unique opportunity and saw that the father is useless at the moment of birth, as he is of no use.

In contrast, former boxer Brahim Asloum responded to this statement by saying: "The child is your whole life," a stance that has intensified the debate among various opinions in France and Belgium regarding the player's decision.