Scandal Strikes: Canadian Women's Soccer Coach Dismissed Amid Drone Controversy

Bev Priestman, the former head coach of the Canadian women's soccer team, will not return following revelations of using drones to spy on an opponent during the Paris Olympics. Canada Soccer concluded that this incident was part of a larger pattern of cultural and oversight issues within the national teams.

Bev Priestman will not return as head coach following an independent report that scrutinized the use of drones to spy on opponents at this year's Paris Olympics, according to Canada Soccer.

Priestman and two other officials were already banned by FIFA for one year after New Zealand reported drone surveillance over training sessions. She apologized for the incident and accepted responsibility but is now stepping down.

Canada Soccer, acknowledging an unacceptable culture within the teams, initiated an inquiry into historical practices. Despite redacted summary findings, it was revealed that Priestman and an assistant coach sanctioned the actions.

Kevin Blue and Peter Augruso from Canada Soccer remarked on the long-standing issues of cultural management. Although the drone footage was never watched by players, the team lost their gold medal defense bid against Germany.

Inciting further discussions, Canada Soccer also reviewed potential code violations by former coach John Herdman. Despite scheduling conflicts, Herdman, now coach of Toronto FC, denied involvement in surveillance practices during his tenure.

(With inputs from agencies.)