The Canadian women’s soccer team’s Olympic campaign has been thrown into turmoil following a drone spying scandal that has resulted in the suspension and removal of head coach Bev Priestman from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The controversy erupted when two team staffers were sent home for allegedly using a drone to spy on New Zealand’s practice sessions, violating ethical and sporting rules.The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) took swift action by removing Priestman from the Olympic squad. Simultaneously, Canada Soccer suspended her for the remainder of the Games and until the completion of an independent external review. Kevin Blue, Canada Soccer’s CEO, revealed that additional information had come to light regarding previous drone use against opponents, predating the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.Priestman, who led Canada to gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, denied any personal involvement in the incident. However, she voluntarily withdrew from coaching the team’s opening match against New Zealand, which Canada won 2-1. Assistant coach Andy Spence has been appointed to lead the team for the remainder of the tournament.The scandal has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with some questioning the team’s integrity. FIFA and the International Olympic Committee have launched investigations into the incident. The New Zealand Olympic Committee is seeking to expedite the matter through the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.Despite the controversy, the Canadian team, as reigning Olympic champions, remains focused on their performance. Team captain Jessie Fleming stated that they were concentrating on their game and not dwelling on the scandal. Canada’s next match is against France on Sunday, as they continue their quest for a quarterfinal spot.
Key points
- Canadian women’s soccer head coach Bev Priestman suspended and removed from Olympic team due to drone spying scandal.
- Scandal involves alleged use of drones to spy on opponents’ practices, particularly New Zealand.
- Assistant coach Andy Spence to lead the team for the remainder of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
- Canada won their opening match 2-1 against New Zealand despite the controversy.
- FIFA and IOC have launched investigations into the incident.
Contradictionsđź‘ľWhile most sources report that Priestman denied involvement, some articles suggest she took full responsibility and apologized to New Zealand players.
