The Canadian women’s soccer team at the Paris Olympics has found itself embroiled in controversy after allegations surfaced that two staff members used a drone to spy on the training sessions of their upcoming opponent, New Zealand. Members of the New Zealand squad spotted the drone flying overhead on Monday during a practice session in Saint-Étienne, the venue for Thursday’s match between the two nations. This incident comes after a similar drone flight was reportedly observed three days earlier, on Friday.
Following news of the alleged reconnaissance missions, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) issued a formal apology, emphasizing its commitment to fair play. The COC expressed shock and disappointment at the incident, stating: “We offer our heartfelt apologies to New Zealand Football, to all the players affected, and to the New Zealand Olympic Committee. We are reviewing next steps with the IOC [International Olympic Committee], Paris 2024, Canada Soccer, and FIFA.”
In response to the scandal, two individuals connected to the Canadian Olympic Team have been sent home. One is believed to have been the drone operator, while the other is an assistant coach for the Canadian team who allegedly received information gathered during the drone flights. The COC has also confirmed that it has accepted the offer of Canada’s team coach, Bev Priestman, to step down from coaching duties for the New Zealand game. In a statement, Priestman, who denied any involvement in the incident, stated: “On behalf of our entire team, I first and foremost want to apologize to the players and staff at New Zealand Football and to the players on Team Canada. This does not represent the values that our team stands for. I am ultimately responsible for conduct in our program.”
The New Zealand Olympic Committee, reacting to the scandal, expressed deep shock and disappointment. They stated: “Team support members immediately reported the incident to police, leading to the drone operator, who has been identified as a support staff member of the wider Canadian Women’s football team, to be detained. The NZOC has formally lodged the incident with the IOC integrity unit and has asked Canada for a full review.”
FIFA’s disciplinary committee has now launched an official investigation into the incident, further adding to the scrutiny surrounding the Canadian women’s soccer team’s actions. This incident has raised serious questions about sportsmanship and fair play at the Olympics and has cast a shadow on the Canadian team’s participation in the Games.
