(Paris) Two Canada Soccer employees have been kicked out of the women’s team for spying on New Zealand’s practice with a drone, as well as another incident whose nature has not been specified. Head coach Bev Priestman, who is not sanctioned by the Canadian Olympic Committee, has chosen not to coach her team for Thursday’s game against New Zealand.
“On behalf of our entire team, I would first like to apologize to the players and staff of New Zealand Football and to the players of Team Canada,” said Ms.me Priestman in a statement.
“These actions do not represent the values our team stands for. I am ultimately responsible for the conduct within our program. As a result, and to emphasize our team’s commitment to integrity, I have decided to voluntarily step down from my role for Thursday’s game. In the spirit of accountability, I am making this decision in the best interest of both teams and to ensure everyone knows that sportsmanship is maintained for this game.”
The Canadian Olympic Committee said it is in contact with the International Olympic Committee and FIFA. “The COC will continue to review the situation and may take further action if deemed necessary.”
The two employees barred from the Games are analyst Joseph Lombardi, who did not have Olympic accreditation, and assistant coach Jasmine Mander. Lombardi was arrested by French authorities in Saint-Étienne after the New Zealand team complained that a drone was flying over the field during their training. The COC said it was “both shocked and disappointed” and apologised.
The Canadians are the reigning Olympic champions and are heavily favored to win their match Thursday against New Zealand.