Canada Soccer Drone Scandal: Coach Bev Priestman Steps Down for Opener

Canada women's soccer coach, Bev Priestman, will step away from the team's opening game against New Zealand at the Paris Olympics due to a drone scandal involving closed practice sessions. Assistant coach Andy Spence will lead the team. FIFA has opened hearings, and an independent review is underway.

Canada women's soccer coach Bev Priestman announced on Wednesday her decision to step away from the team's opening game against New Zealand at the Paris Olympics following a drone scandal.

New Zealand lodged a complaint with the International Olympic Committee's integrity unit after drones were flown over their closed practice sessions. Canada's opening match against New Zealand is scheduled for Thursday in Saint-Etienne.

In response to the complaint, Canada Soccer sent assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joseph Lombardi home. Priestman issued an apology to New Zealand, emphasizing that the incident did not reflect the team's values. Assistant coach Andy Spence will take over for the opener.