Paris Olympics 2024: Why did canada football team staff headed home? Know more
Xtra Time Web Desk: Canada's Olympic Football Team in Crisis: Assistant Coach and Analyst Sent Home Amid Spying Scandal. In a dramatic twist at the Paris Olympics, the Canadian women's football team has been rocked by a spying scandal, leading to the immediate departure of key staff members. On Wednesday, the team’s assistant coach, Jasmine Mander, and unaccredited analyst, Joseph Lombardi, were expelled from the Games following their involvement in a high-profile surveillance incident.
The controversy erupted when a staff member was apprehended by French authorities for flying a drone over a New Zealand training session in Saint-Étienne. This breach of protocol was compounded by a second incident, which prompted New Zealand to file a formal complaint with the IOC integrity unit, seeking explanations from Canada.
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In a statement, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “The COC is actively engaging with the IOC and FIFA to address the matter,” it said. “We are committed to transparency and cooperation, and will review the situation thoroughly, with further action pending if deemed necessary.”
In light of the scandal, Head Coach Bev Priestman has announced her decision to withdraw from the opening match of Canada’s gold medal defense against New Zealand. Priestman expressed deep regret, stating, “On behalf of our entire team, I extend a sincere apology to New Zealand Football and our own players. This incident is incongruent with the values we uphold.”
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Priestman’s withdrawal underscores the team's commitment to integrity and sportsmanship, as they grapple with the fallout from this scandal.
