DAKAR, Senegal – The fallout from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco continues to reverberate, extending far beyond the pitch and into the studios where the game was analyzed. For prominent journalist Vanessa Le Moigne, the tournament culminated not in professional satisfaction, but in a harrowing wave of online harassment and threats that have led her to step away from football coverage. The situation underscores a growing concern about the safety and well-being of women in sports media and the unchecked toxicity that can flourish online.
Le Moigne, a well-known face on beIN Sports and a fixture covering the CAN for several editions, became the target of intense criticism following her interview with Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy after the final, which Senegal won 1-0 before a controversial ruling led to questions about the result. The backlash quickly escalated, crossing the line from critique into personal attacks and threats, ultimately prompting Le Moigne to announce she will no longer cover the sport after the current season.
Speaking to Her Story, Le Moigne detailed the disturbing nature of the abuse she received. “You come with passion, to do your job and to please people, and these people tear you down, threaten you with death, with rape, and threaten your children,” she recounted. “But you are completely crazy!” The threats extended to her family, a particularly devastating aspect of the harassment that proved to be a breaking point.
The initial controversy stemmed from questions Le Moigne posed to Mendy regarding the penalty decision and potential behind-the-scenes influences on the match. She explained that she felt compelled to ask difficult questions, even those being whispered about, as part of her journalistic duty. However, this pursuit of truth was met with a ferocious response online, fueled by a segment of fans who perceived her questioning as disrespectful or biased.
What Le Moigne found particularly disheartening was the silence from within the industry. She reported receiving no support from colleagues or organizations, leaving her feeling isolated and vulnerable. “The silence was deafening,” she said. “Not a message. Radio silence.” This lack of solidarity, she stated, contributed significantly to her decision to leave football coverage.
Le Moigne briefly returned to broadcasting just four days after the CAN final, covering a Ligue 2 match. She described this return as necessary, a way to reclaim her professional life despite the trauma she had experienced. “I had to do it, otherwise I would never have come back,” she explained. “It’s a trauma, I really observe it as such. Sometimes, I have trouble asking my questions to the players, to the coaches.”
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, Le Moigne revealed that the only threat she received came from another woman. “That says that the place of women in the world of football is be quiet!” she stated. She also shared a poignant reflection on her late father, who was her first and most devoted viewer, hoping that his memory would resonate with others and encourage a more respectful online environment.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about sexism and harassment in sports journalism. Le Moigne’s experience is not isolated; many female journalists face similar challenges, often navigating a male-dominated field while enduring online abuse. The case has drawn support from fellow journalists and organizations advocating for greater inclusivity and safety in sports media.
Le Moigne’s decision to step away from football coverage is a significant loss for the industry. She was known for her professionalism, insightful analysis, and elegant presentation. However, her departure serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of online toxicity and the urgent need for greater accountability and support for those who face harassment in the digital age.
As Le Moigne prepares to move on from football, the focus now shifts to addressing the systemic issues that contributed to her ordeal. The hope is that her experience will serve as a catalyst for change, fostering a more respectful and inclusive environment for all those involved in the beautiful game. The next confirmed checkpoint for Le Moigne is the end of the 2025/2026 season, after which she will pursue other opportunities outside of football.
What are your thoughts on this situation? Share your comments below and let us know what steps you think need to be taken to address online harassment in sports media.
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