beIN Commentator Caught on Hot Mic Calling Aryna Sabalenka 'Horrible'

Overview

• During a live WTA Finals broadcast a beIN Sports commentator, Matthieu Solier, was heard saying Sabalenka was "horrible" after failing to notice his microphone was on.
• beIN Sports director Florent Houzot publicly condemned the remark and issued an on-air apology for the broadcaster's coverage error.
• The channel has sent the case to Arcom, the French audiovisual regulator, for investigation into whether the on-air remark breached broadcasting rules.
• The short video clip went viral and provoked polarized responses on social media with many defending Sabalenka and others arguing about free expression and on-air standards.
• Solier has worked at beIN Sports since 2012 and the referral to Arcom creates potential consequences for the network’s editorial practices and the commentator’s role.