Background: Drone Spying Allegations
FIFA’s disciplinary committee has launched proceedings against Canada Soccer and several individuals, including head coach Bev Priestman, following allegations that a drone was used to spy on Olympic rivals New Zealand. Assistant coach Jasmine Mander and unaccredited analyst Joseph Lombardi have been sent home, with the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) citing two separate instances of drone use to record New Zealand’s training sessions.
Key Figures Involved
- Bev Priestman: Head coach of Canada Soccer, formerly an assistant to Phil Neville with the Lionesses, announced she will not coach the upcoming match against New Zealand.
- Jasmine Mander: Assistant coach, sent home due to involvement in the incidents.
- Joseph Lombardi: Unaccredited analyst, also sent home.
Official Statements and Reactions
A FIFA statement confirmed the opening of proceedings against Canada Soccer and the individuals involved, citing potential breaches of FIFA’s disciplinary code and regulations for the Olympic football tournament. The matter will be reviewed by the disciplinary committee in the coming days.
Canada Soccer’s Response
Canada Soccer president Peter Augruso and CEO Kevin Blue issued a joint statement expressing their “unequivocal disapproval” and announced an independent investigation into the matter. They offered sincere apologies to the impacted players, coaches, and officials, emphasizing their commitment to integrity and fair competition.
Bev Priestman’s Apology
Priestman issued a public apology, acknowledging responsibility for the conduct within the program and voluntarily withdrawing from coaching the match against New Zealand to uphold sportsmanship.
Immediate Actions and Future Steps
The COC confirmed that Mander and Lombardi would be sent home and that all Canada Soccer staff would undergo mandatory ethics training. The organization committed to an independent external review of the incident and the historical culture of competitive ethics within their programs, with findings to be shared publicly and corrective actions taken if necessary.
Incident Details
The COC reported that a non-accredited member of Canada Soccer’s support team was detained by French authorities in St. Etienne following a complaint from New Zealand Football on July 22. Additionally, a second drone incident was identified on July 19.