Eurosport drops commentator for sexist remark during olympics
The British division of Eurosport has removed Bob Ballard from commenting on the Olympics. This decision followed a remark he made during the women's swimming competition. "He has been immediately removed from our commentary team," said Eurosport.
Australian swimmers Emma McKeon, Shayna Jack, Mollie O'Callaghan, and Meg Harris won the gold medal in the 4x100 metres freestyle relay at the Paris Olympics. The race took place at the Paris Aquatic Centre, attended by commentators from around the world. For British Eurosport, Bob Ballard covered the event, and it was his first and last commentary at the Olympics.
Right after receiving the gold medals, the swimmers left the pool, and the commentator then said: "Well, the women just finishing up. You know what women are like … hanging around, doing their makeup." Internet users quickly caught the Brit's words and spread a clip of his comment on social media. Unfortunately for him, it also reached British Eurosport offices, and the executives decided to remove him from further sports commentary in Paris.
During a segment of Eurosport’s coverage last night, commentator Bob Ballard made an inappropriate comment. To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect - representatives of the station wrote.
Commentator removed from Paris Olympics for sexist remark
During the swimming race, Bob Ballard was joined by double Olympian, European champion, and world runner-up in short course, Lizzie Simmonds. The 33-year-old, laughing, described her colleague's comment as "scandalous".
Despite the general outrage that arose around the Brit's words, he did not address the scandal but instead wished the former swimmer good luck during Sunday's broadcast.
