Overview
- Doku told Reuters he would “definitely” want to be present for the birth of his first child, with his wife due in the second week of July.
- Belgian media report the federation is preparing travel arrangements, including private‑jet options, and the Royal Belgian FA has said it will accommodate players' family situations.
- Belgium ruled Doku out of their second group match versus Iran on Sunday because of a respiratory infection and the team said medical staff will rest him to target recovery for later fixtures.
- France Pierron, an L'Equipe presenter, called the father's role at childbirth 'completely useless' during on‑air remarks and later issued an apology after widespread backlash.
- The situation has widened a conversation about modern fatherhood and squad logistics at major tournaments, with precedent for remote involvement via video link and likely pressure on federations to balance welfare, long travel and squad planning.