The Canada women’s soccer team woke up to shocking news on Friday morning as their head coach, Bev Priestman, was sent home amidst a drone spying scandal that has cast a shadow over their gold medal defense at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Following Priestman’s absence from the sidelines during the team’s victory over New Zealand, Canada Soccer announced her suspension pending an independent review, with assistant Andy Spence taking over on an interim basis.
The players were unaware of Priestman’s departure from Paris as it happened overnight while they were sleeping, according to CBC’s Devin Heroux. Canada Soccer CEO Kevin Blue addressed the media on Friday, emphasizing that the players were not exposed to the footage seized by authorities before their first match and that no players were involved in any unethical behavior. Blue expressed hope that any potential FIFA punishment would not include a points deduction due to the swift action taken by Canada Soccer in response to the situation.
The investigation into the team by FIFA was initiated on Wednesday, with Canadian Olympic Committee CEO David Shoemaker stating that Priestman was likely aware of the drone usage during New Zealand’s training sessions. Priestman, however, denied this allegation. The scandal, sparked by a Canada Soccer staffer flying a drone over New Zealand training, appears to have been an ongoing issue, with reports from TSN indicating that both the men’s and women’s national teams have been using drones and spying tactics for years.
Blue revealed that new information uncovered this week indicated the extent of the issue within Canada Soccer, including “attempted drone usage” by a member of the men’s coaching staff during Copa América. Despite the controversy, Blue stated that withdrawing the team from the Olympics is not under consideration, as it would unfairly impact the players who have dedicated themselves to competing ethically. Canada’s next match is against France on Sunday in Saint-Étienne, and Blue reiterated his commitment to supporting the players and allowing them to continue their Olympic journey.