The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) has removed Bev Priestman, head coach of the women’s national soccer team, for the remainder of the Paris Games following an alleged drone spying incident. Assistant coach Andy Spence will take over coaching duties for the defending gold medalists.
The controversy erupted when two Canadian team staffers were accused of using a drone to spy on a New Zealand practice session. Despite Priestman denying involvement, she did not attend Canada’s 2-1 victory over New Zealand as FIFA and the International Olympic Committee conduct investigations.
Canada Soccer CEO Kevin Blue revealed that additional instances of drone use against opponents predating the Paris 2024 Games have come to light. Consequently, Priestman is suspended until the tournament’s end and the completion of an independent review. Assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joseph Lombardi were sent home immediately, and Priestman had already removed herself from coaching the opening match.
Priestman, who led Canada to Olympic gold in 2021, expressed her dismay, acknowledging the impact on the program and taking proactive steps to address the issue. Despite her successful tenure, the scandal has cast a shadow over her achievements, and her future with the team remains uncertain as the investigation continues.
