A COMMENTATOR axed from the 2024 Paris Olympics broke his silence to apologise for a “sexist” remark made on air.
Bob Ballard was fired by Eurosport after comments he made about the female Australian swimming team.
The 64-year-old said said the 4x100m freestyle relay squad were late to leave the swimming venue because they were “doing their make-up”.
Speaking out for the first time since he dismissal, Ballard said: “The comments I made during the Australian freestyle relay victory ceremony on Saturday have caused some offence.
“It was never my intention to upset or belittle anyone and if I did, I apologies. I am a massive advocate of women’s sport.
“I shall miss the Eurosport team dearly and wish them all the best for the rest of the Olympics.”
Australia’s quartet of Emma McKeon, Shayna Jack, Mollie O’Calloghan and Meg Harris went won gold at the Paris Aquatic Centre.
As they made their way out to collect their medals, Ballard said: “Well, the women just finishing up.
“You know what women are like… hanging around, doing their make-up.”
Ballard’s co-commentator Lizzie Simmonds described the comment as “outrageous”.
A statement from Eurosport read: “During a segment of Eurosport’s coverage last night, commentator Bob Ballard made an inappropriate comment,’ a statement from the broadcaster read last night.
“To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect.”
Ballard’s career has seen him report on various sporting events since the mid-80’s, including multiple Olympic Games.
He also spent 19 years as a freelance sport, news and music presenter for the BBC and has held university lecturing positions.
Australia’s swimming team made history with their time of 3:28.92, securing a fourth consecutive gold in this event.
