Soccer team’s drone at center of Paris Olympics spying scandal

During the Paris Olympics, the Canadian women’s soccer team faced controversy as two staff members were accused of using a drone to spy on the training sessions of an upcoming opponent.

The New Zealand squad noticed the drone flying overhead during a training session in Saint-Étienne, the location for the upcoming game between the two teams. It was later revealed that a similar incident had occurred three days prior.

In response to the allegations, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) issued an apology, emphasizing their commitment to fair play and expressing shock and disappointment over the situation.

The COC stated, “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, Paris 2024, Canada Soccer, and FIFA.”

Following the incident, two members of the Canadian Olympic Team involved in the scandal were sent home. One was reportedly the drone operator, while the other was an assistant coach who received information gathered during the drone flights.

The COC also confirmed that Canada’s team coach, Bev Priestman, has voluntarily stepped down from coaching duties for the upcoming game against New Zealand.

In a statement, Priestman denied any involvement in the incident and apologized to both New Zealand Football and Team Canada, stating, “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 expressed deep shock and disappointment over the incident and reported it to the police. The drone operator, identified as a support staff member of the Canadian Women’s football team, was detained. The NZOC has informed the IOC integrity unit and requested a full review from Canada.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee has initiated an official investigation into the matter.