The BBC is facing renewed calls from viewers to remove Olivier Giroud from its World Cup punditry lineup after the former France international's analysis during Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria drew widespread criticism. Fans took to social media on Monday night to express their frustration, with one stating: "Olivier Giroud STINKS as a pundit. They have to replace him." Another added: "I don't ever want to see Olivier Giroud again as a pundit."
Viewer Backlash Intensifies
Complaints have mounted throughout the tournament, which is being held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. A third viewer wrote: "Please no more Giroud. He's so bad it's actually painful to watch. Not everyone can be a pundit." One fan even called for drastic action: "BBC need to pull a Tunisia and sack Olivier Giroud mid-tournament. Woeful pundit." Another concluded: "Time for the BBC to just give up on Giroud as a pundit."
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Despite the backlash, some viewers have defended Giroud. One fan remarked: "Olivier Giroud as a pundit is surprisingly calm - like he talks the game the same way he finishes chances, simple and efficient." Another said: "I actually quite like Olivier Giroud as a pundit." A third added: "He's alright man." One supporter noted improvement: "Seemingly unpopular opinion but Olivier Giroud's perfectly fine as a pundit. Was a tough listen in the first game he did this tournament admittedly but loads quicker and clearer since, clearly a concerted effort to be so. If it hadn't become a thing people wouldn't notice him."
Giroud's Punditry Career
Giroud, now 39, still plays for Lille in Ligue 1 but is making his debut as a regular TV pundit, having previously appeared on Sky's Monday Night Football last season. Speaking about his new role earlier this month, he said: "I'm really excited about starting a new experience. And yeah, looking forward to seeing Micah [Richards] and Wazza [Wayne Rooney]."
Broader BBC Coverage Criticism
The BBC, which shares World Cup broadcasting rights with ITV, has faced additional criticism for choosing to broadcast from Salford rather than a studio in the USA. ITV opted for a Manhattan skyline backdrop, prompting Gary Lineker to joke on ITV's coverage: "I did desperately want to come and see your set, because it's absolutely amazing. I can confirm it is real!"
