Comment Sparks Outrage
Eurosport swiftly removed commentator Bob Ballard from its Olympics coverage after a sexist remark about the Australian swim team went viral. Following Australia’s gold win in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, Ballard was heard saying, “Well the women are just finishing up. You know what women are like… hanging around, doing their makeup.” The comment drew immediate backlash.
Official response and immediate removal
In a statement, Eurosport announced Ballard’s removal: “To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect.” Lizzie Simmonds, his co-commentator, called the remark “outrageous.”
Ballard’s career and future
Bob Ballard, a seasoned commentator with a long history at the Olympics and BBC Radio 5 Live, has yet to publicly address the incident. Despite the controversy, he wished fellow Eurosport commentator Laura Winter good luck ahead of the next swimming session.