LONDON, July 29 (Bernama-PA Media/dpa) -- Canada women’s head coach Bev Priestman has issued a full apology and vowed to cooperate with an investigation into two alleged incidents involving drones being used to spy on her side’s Olympics opponents New Zealand, the German Press Agency (dpa) reported.
Priestman, who guided Canada to the Olympic title in Tokyo three years ago, was sent home on Wednesday along with assistant coach Jasmine Mander and Joseph Lombardi, an unaccredited analyst with Canada Soccer, after a drone was believed to have recorded New Zealand training sessions on two separate occasions.
On Saturday, FIFA published the outcome of disciplinary proceedings against the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA), Priestman, Lombardi and Mander, confirming that the trio have been suspended from taking part in any football-related activity for one year.
Additionally, Canada were given an automatic deduction of six points from their Olympic campaign.
Priestman has expressed her sorrow for the incident, but urged fans to carry on supporting the side in Paris.
Her statement said: “I am absolutely heartbroken for the players, and I would like to apologise from the bottom of my heart for the impact this situation has had on all of them.
“I know how hard they have worked following a very difficult year in 2023, and that they are a group of people who care very much about sportsmanship and integrity. As the leader of the team on the field, I want to take accountability, and I plan to fully cooperate with the investigation.
“To Canada, I am sorry. You have been my home and a country I have fallen in love with. I hope you will continue to support these extremely talented and hardworking players, to help them defy all odds and show their true character.
“This programme and team have allowed this country to reach the pinnacle of women’s soccer, and their winning of the gold medal was earned through sheer grit and determination, despite reports to the contrary.”
-- BERNAMA-dpa
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