Jeremy Clarkson, the outspoken former Top Gear and Grand Tour presenter, has faced many controversies throughout his career, but one incident that stands out revolves around the name of his dog, Didier Dogba. Living at his Diddly Squat Farm in Chadlington, Oxfordshire, Clarkson has often been seen on his popular Prime Video series Clarkson’s Farm, where his agricultural escapades—alongside his love for animals—have charmed viewers. But it was one specific decision regarding his pets that sparked a flurry of criticism and accusations of racism.
Clarkson, who is a passionate supporter of Chelsea Football Club, named his small black dog Didier Dogba after former footballer Didier Drogba, a legend in the Chelsea team. The name was a playful tribute to the Ivorian striker who made significant contributions to the club’s success during his time there. However, the name didn’t sit well with some people. According to an ITV report, the choice of the name Didier Dogba sparked a wave of accusations claiming that it was “racist” due to the fact that both the dog and the footballer were black.
The backlash stemmed from some people’s belief that the pairing of the name Didier, a common African name, with “Dogba,” in reference to a black footballer, was inappropriate. These criticisms erupted on social media, with many arguing that the name was racially insensitive, even though it was intended to be a tribute to a football star Clarkson greatly admired.
In his latest column for The Sunday Times, Clarkson addressed this controversy, pointing out how he felt his situation had been blown out of proportion. He compared the situation to much more severe controversies involving well-known figures, referencing how he was reprimanded for naming his dog Didier Dogba, while public figures like Jimmy Savile, Rolf Harris, and Huw Edwards were embroiled in much more serious scandals. Clarkson noted, “Savile, Harris, and Edwards were going about their business while I was being reprimanded for calling my new dog Didier Dogba,” showcasing his frustration with the double standard that seemed to be applied to him.
For Clarkson, this controversy surrounding his dog’s name is just another in a long line of public disputes he has faced over the years. Known for his controversial comments and behavior, especially during his time on Top Gear, Clarkson has often found himself in the center of public and media scrutiny. However, he continues to stand by his actions, seemingly undeterred by the criticisms that have followed him through his career.
Despite the negative attention, Clarkson remains deeply attached to his animals and continues to feature them prominently in Clarkson’s Farm. The show, which debuted in 2021, quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Clarkson’s attempts at farming and his interactions with animals like sheep, cows, pigs, and more. It is clear that his love for his pets, including his dogs, has always been genuine, but his choice of names, it seems, has not always been so well-received.
Clarkson’s Farm has been a huge hit for Prime Video, gaining Clarkson a new generation of fans who have followed his farming adventures with equal parts humor and curiosity. With the fifth season on the horizon, after filming wrapped in September 2025, viewers are eager to see more of Clarkson’s forays into farming life. His unique perspective, paired with his often irreverent humor, has resonated with audiences who are fascinated by his transition from TV presenter to farmer, even as he faces controversies like the one surrounding his dog’s name.
As for Didier Dogba, the small black dog’s name might have sparked controversy, but it also adds another layer to the public’s perception of Clarkson. In typical Clarkson fashion, he brushes off the criticisms with his usual wit and sarcasm. Despite the challenges, it’s clear that Clarkson’s unapologetic approach to life, and his deep affection for his pets, will continue to shape his public persona—whether people agree with his choices or not.
The saga of Clarkson’s dog’s name may be just a small footnote in the larger story of his career, but for those who follow him, it serves as a reminder of how even the smallest decisions can provoke a whirlwind of public reaction. Whether it’s his farming adventures or the choice of a dog’s name, Jeremy Clarkson remains a figure who never shies away from controversy, keeping his fans both entertained and intrigued, no matter the circumstances.
