What happened?
Allegations of drones capturing New Zealand’s pre-Paris Olympic practice sessions led to steep consequences for Canada women’s national team coach Bev Priestman.
Already suspended following the drone scandal at the Paris Olympics, Priestman was fired Tuesday following an independent review. Assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joseph Lombardi were also fired as Canada Soccer released findings of the investigation.
The one year suspension, $228,000 fine, and six-point dock from her team in the tournament marked the first step. The next came Tuesday, following the review.
The bigger picture
This investigation peeled back more than just drone usage - it shed light on a national team culture needing reform. Led by attorney Sonia Regenbogen, the investigation found no evidence that Canadian players had viewed the drone footage. But it found that assistant coaches and other support staff “did not feel they could challenge the authority of the head coach."
That led Canada Soccer CEO Kevin Blue to make the moves in attempt to bring integrity to the organization. Priestman's departure closes a notable chapter - she guided Canada to Olympic gold in Tokyo but leaves amidst scrutiny and a call for change.
“The findings of the independent investigator reveal that the drone incident in Paris was a symptom of a past pattern of an unacceptable culture and insufficient oversight within the national teams,” Blue said in a statement. “This is no longer part of our operations. In fact, the investigation findings strengthen our resolve to continue implementing changes that are needed to improve Canada Soccer, in all respects, and to do so with urgency. Even though the independent investigation has been concluded, there is more to be done to set things on a new course.”
Did you know?
Before the drone controversy, Priestman was celebrated as a rising star in coaching, winning International Coach of the Year accolades after Canada’s Gold at the Tokyo Games. She was one of the few women to helm a high-profile national team - making her fall all the more impactful within the sport.
What’s next for Canada?
Canada Soccer will spend the coming months digging into the review’s recommendations and reshaping its leadership. They’re setting up stricter oversight. With the nation’s eyes on rebuilding, Canadian soccer fans hope the turbulence clears soon, and that their team can shift focus back to competing on the world stage.