Canadian Women's Soccer Team Accused of Spying on New Zealand with Drone, Wins 2-1 in Opener

Jul 24, 2024, 02:45 PM

The Canadian women's soccer team is embroiled in a controversy after being accused of using a drone to spy on New Zealand's practice sessions in St. Étienne ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The incident occurred twice, on July 19 and July 22, leading to the detention of Joseph Lombardi, an analyst, and Jasmine Mander, an assistant coach, by French authorities. Both staff members have been sent home, and head coach Bev Priestman has removed herself from coaching the opening match against New Zealand. The Canadian Olympic Committee has issued a heartfelt apology, and the International Olympic Committee's integrity unit and FIFA are reviewing the matter. Lombardi received a suspended sentence. Despite the scandal, Canada won their opening match against New Zealand 2-1.