Eurosport Removes Commentator Over Sexist Remark During Olympic Coverage

Eurosport has taken immediate action by removing commentator Bob Ballard from its team for the Paris 2024 Olympics following a sexist remark he made about Australia’s female swimmers. The incident occurred during the women’s 4x100m freestyle relay, where the Australian team, consisting of Mollie O’Callaghan, Shayna Jack, Emma McKeon, and Meg Harris, won gold. Ballard's comment, which suggested that women were “hanging around, doing their makeup,” sparked outrage on social media and was labeled “outrageous” by his co-commentator, Lizzie Simmonds. In a statement, Eurosport confirmed the decision to remove Ballard from its commentary roster, emphasizing that his comment was inappropriate. The broadcaster did not provide further details on whether Ballard would face additional consequences. As of now, he has not publicly addressed the backlash. The Australian team set an Olympic record with a time of 3:28.92, with McKeon achieving her sixth gold medal, making her the most decorated Olympian from Australia. The incident has drawn widespread criticism, including from behavioral scientist Professor Pragya Agarwal, who questioned the lack of training for commentators on gender sensitivity. The swift response from Eurosport reflects a growing awareness and intolerance for sexist remarks in sports broadcasting, especially in light of the International Olympic Committee's efforts to promote gender equality, with women now comprising 50 percent of Olympic participants. Paris 2024 organizers had previously emphasized the importance of presenting women athletes respectfully, urging broadcasters to avoid any content that could be seen as objectifying.