Folks, we've got quite the scandal brewing in the world of sports, and it’s all unfolding at the Paris Games!
The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) has issued a public apology after an incident involving their women's soccer team that has caused quite a stir. What happened, you ask? Well, a member of the Canadian team staff allegedly flew a drone over a New Zealand team training session just three days before their scheduled match.
Here’s the scoop: The incident took place in Saint-Étienne, a city about 250 miles south of Paris, where the defending Olympic champions, Canada, are set to face New Zealand in a group-stage game. New Zealand Football spotted the drone during their practice and immediately reported it. French authorities detained the drone operator, who was identified as an unaccredited analyst with Canada Soccer.
The COC, clearly distressed by the situation, confirmed the detention and expressed their dismay. “We stand for fair play and we are shocked and disappointed,” their statement read. They extended heartfelt apologies to New Zealand Football, the players affected, and the New Zealand Olympic Committee. To address the issue, the COC is collaborating with the IOC, Paris 2024, Canada Soccer, and FIFA.
In response to the incident, the COC made some swift decisions. Two members of the Canadian Olympic Team, Joseph Lombardi (the analyst) and assistant coach Jasmine Mander, were sent home immediately.
Additionally, Bev Priestman, the head coach of the Canadian team, offered to step down from coaching the upcoming match against New Zealand, emphasizing the team's commitment to integrity and fair play.
Priestman, in her statement, apologized directly to the New Zealand players and staff, as well as her own team. She acknowledged her responsibility for the conduct within the program and decided to withdraw from the Thursday match to uphold sportsmanship. This move aims to ensure that the integrity of the game is maintained and that both teams feel the competition is fair.
New Zealand’s Olympic Committee expressed their deep shock and disappointment. They reported the incident to the police, which led to the detention of the drone operator. The NZOC has formally lodged a complaint with the IOC integrity unit and has requested a thorough review from Canada. They stressed the importance of sportsmanship and integrity in their statement.
Canada Soccer is working closely with the COC to investigate the matter and has also apologized for the incident. Meanwhile, responses from New Zealand Football, FIFA, the IOC, and Paris 2024 are still pending.