Emma Hayes paused ITV's World Cup coverage of Belgium vs Iran on Sunday to deliver a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Sid, on Father's Day, while also subtly responding to recent sexist trolling she has faced online. The former Chelsea Women manager, now head coach of the United States women's national team, has been part of ITV's New York-based punditry panel throughout the tournament.
Emotional Tribute During Hydration Break Analysis
During the contentious hydration breaks, Hayes has provided tactical analysis using a small blackboard and chalk, often positioned over wooden cabinets. After her most recent segment, she interrupted the handover back to live match coverage to pay tribute to her father, who died in 2023. "One last thing, happy Father's Day to everyone at home. I know it's a great day and it's also my father's heavenly birthday today and I want to say one thing to you dad up in heaven. Thank you for giving me so much confidence to have the opportunity to do this and so I leave you with this beautiful view," she said.
Jacket Message and Response to Critics
Hayes then spun around to reveal the message 'she will change the world' on the back of her jacket, a nod to her father's influence. Sid Hayes played a key role in transforming Arsenal women into a powerhouse club and in creating youth leagues in Regent's Park. The tribute came amid criticism of ITV's treatment of Hayes, with viewers labeling her on-air setup as 'demeaning'—she was required to deliver analysis hunched over wooden cabinets, which many compared to a 'kitchen'. Television presenter Dan Walker commented, "I really like Emma Hayes and I think she's an insightful pundit. I'm not sure why they have decided to make it look like she's writing the specials on a bistro chalkboard!"
Viewer Backlash and Support
One user posted on X, "Why in the high-key misogyny is the only female pundit on ITV football broadcasting from a kitchen?" Another added, "Emma Hayes is class. However, the fact that she has to explain things with chalk and a blackboard is bad," while a third remarked, "They must change the presentation of Emma Hayes. Her analysis is superb. Sticking her in a kitchen with a chalkboard is setting women's football back a decade." Despite the backlash, many viewers rallied behind her. One posted, "Seems technically more knowledgeable than many of the men," while another said, "Had a lump in my throat watching that. What a legend." A third added, "Need more of her on football coverage. Analysis is great."
ITV Adjusts Setup
ITV has since adjusted the setup, providing Hayes with an enhanced magnetic tactics board and a closer camera angle that shows less of the surrounding set. Hayes is one of the most successful managers in women's football, winning seven Women's Super League titles and five FA Cups during her 12-year stint at Chelsea. She also led the United States women's team to gold at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
