Paris 2024: Canada Women’s team strip of six points, coach ban for a year over drone scandal
By Nana Kwame Bediako
Canada women’s soccer team has been stripped of six points by FIFA for violating ethical rules at the ongoing Olympic Games in Paris. The situation came to light after it was discovered that the team had flown a drone to spy on New Zealand’s training session just a few days ago. This serious breach of conduct has not only impacted the team’s standings but has also led to severe repercussions for its managerial staff.
The ethical breach prompted an immediate response from the Canada Olympic Committee, which swiftly reviewed the drone incident. Upon uncovering new details, the committee made the tough decision to remove head coach Bev Priestman and assistant coach Jasmine Mander from their roles. Both coaches were sent home immediately, a move that has sent shockwaves through the team and its supporters.
In a further blow to the team, FIFA announced that Priestman would face a one-year ban from all football-related activities. Canada Soccer, the governing body for the sport in the country, confirmed this suspension and announced that assistant coach Spence would take over the management of the women’s team for the remainder of the Olympics. This sudden change in leadership adds another layer of complexity to the team’s already challenging situation.
The repercussions of the drone scandal have been felt far and wide, impacting not just the team but also its fan base and the broader sporting community. Many are left questioning how such an oversight could occur and what it means for the integrity of the sport. The incident has sparked a debate on the lengths to which teams will go to gain a competitive edge, raising ethical questions that extend beyond the realm of soccer.
