9 months ago
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BBC chiefs have apologised after a reporter asked Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak an “inappropriate” question during a press conference.
Chebbak, 32, faced the media ahead of her side’s Women’s World Cup opener against Germany.
Reuters
ReutersDuring the presser, the forward was quizzed if there are any gay players in Morocco’s squad.
The BBC World Service reporter asked: “In Morocco, it’s illegal to have a gay relationship.
“Do you have any gay players in your squad and what’s life like for them in Morocco?”
The moderator immediately stepped in, saying: “Sorry, this is a very political question, so we’ll just stick to questions relating to football.”
Not letting the matter lie, the reporter hit back: “No, it’s not political.
“It’s about people, it’s got nothing to do with politics. Please let her answer the question.”
The press conference then moved on, with one further question asked before they wrapped up.
Following the incident, a BBC spokesperson told CNN: “We recognise that the question was inappropriate.
“We had no intention to cause any harm or distress.”
Morocco are making their Women’s World Cup debut this year, having reached the final of last year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
They went on to be beaten 6-0 by Germany in Melbourne, courtesy of a double by Alexandra Popp, two own goals and further efforts by Klara Buhl and Lea Schuller.
Morocco’s participation marks the first time an Arab country has ever qualified for the Women’s World Cup.
And defender Nouhaila Benzina will become the first player to wear a hijab at a senior women’s football tournament.
In Morocco, same-sex relationships for both men and women are illegal, with homosexuality punishable by up to three years in prison.
Reuters
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