Canada’s women’s soccer team’s head coach, Bev Priestman, has been suspended amid allegations of drone-spying during the Paris Games. The Canadian Olympic Committee announced that assistant coach Andy Spence would lead the team in Priestman’s absence. The committee will conduct an independent external review of the incident involving a drone allegedly used to spy on a New Zealand team practice. A support staff member of the Canadian team was detained by French authorities after the New Zealand team reported a drone flying overhead their practice. Canada Soccer also sent home an unaccredited analyst and an assistant coach. Priestman apologized to the New Zealand team and removed herself from a match to emphasize integrity. Following additional information regarding previous drone use against opponents, Priestman was removed for the remainder of the Games. Canada Soccer CEO & General Secretary, Kevin Blue, made the announcement. Priestman had signed on to coach Canada through the 2027 Women’s World Cup after leading the team to a gold medal in Tokyo. The Canadian team won its match against New Zealand despite the controversy. The incident has sparked discussions about ethics in sports and the importance of maintaining fair play and respect for opponents.
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Canada women’s soccer coach suspended following drone controversy
