Doha, Qatar – BeIN Sports has reportedly suspended commentator Jawad Badda, a Moroccan national, following controversial remarks made during a recent broadcast. The suspension comes after Badda’s commentary during a match involving the Moroccan national team, where he referenced Cameroonian player Karl Toko Ekambi, calling him a “legend.” This reference is alleged to have been a deliberate attempt to provoke Algerian fans by reminding them of Ekambi’s role in Algeria’s elimination from the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Sources familiar with the matter suggest that while BeIN Sports did not classify Badda’s actions as a severe professional error, the specific mention of Ekambi was the catalyst for the suspension. It is believed that the channel perceived the comment as a politically motivated provocation, violating the network’s commitment to unbiased sports coverage.
Prior Warnings Issued
Beyond the immediate cause of the suspension, Jawad Badda has been known for his controversial commentary, particularly during matches involving the Moroccan national team. He has been accused of injecting subtle political messages and promoting agendas unrelated to sports. Reports indicate that BeIN Sports management had previously warned him against delving into political issues, specifically referencing the Western Sahara dispute, and making implications that it is “Moroccan”, which contradicts the channel’s professional editorial line.
Critics have contrasted Badda’s limited regional influence with that of prominent Algerian sports journalist Hafid Derradji, who enjoys a significant following on social media and a wider professional reach. Badda’s attempts to gain prominence are seen by some as relying on provocation and blurring the lines between sports commentary and political discourse.
This decision by BeIN Sports underscores the channel’s commitment, however minimal, to separating sports commentary from political propaganda. Any deviation from this principle, whether driven by passion or intention, is viewed as unacceptable.
