The Olympic football community has been shaken by allegations of espionage involving drones. These claims have led to calls for severe repercussions, marking an unprecedented controversy in the sport’s history.
New Zealand has accused Canada of using drones to spy on their football team during the Olympics. According to reports, this incident occurred during two training sessions, disrupting the Football Ferns’ preparation.
Team New Zealand contacted French authorities and Olympic officials following the second incident. An investigation remains ongoing, but authorities quickly apprehended the drone operator.
“It’s embarrassing for Canada, and there should be more consequences for them.”
The Morning Footy crew weigh in on two incidents involving Canadian staff members flying drones over New Zealand’s practice and what should come next for the reigning gold medalists 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/9ZeykuYTQK
— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) July 24, 2024
As a result, the Canadian member and an assistant coach have both been removed from the team. Canada’s head coach, Beverly Priestman, also recently announced that she would not be on the sidelines for the upcoming matchup between the two teams.
New Zealand Football CEO Andrew Pragnell called for “urgent action” on the matter, emphasizing the importance of addressing this integrity breach to maintain the tournament’s integrity.
Canada has denied all allegations, claiming that the drones were not used for any illicit purposes. They argue that the drones were part of standard operational procedures and were not intended to gain an unfair advantage.
Canada should forfeit the first game. It’s unacceptable that the team would play New Zealand, having spied on them. Imagine if NZ had spied on us and then went ahead and played against us. This is a blight on our country’s reputation. Disgraceful! https://t.co/QomfjrqhA3
— Margaret McCuaig-Johnston (@M_Johnston1) July 24, 2024
However, the drone operator in question has already received an eight-month suspended prison sentence from French police, who confiscated the drone and found video of New Zealand’s practice from two different days.
FIFA has launched an investigation into the incident. The incident has also sparked debates about the use of technology in sports, with many calling for clearer regulations.
This is not the first time espionage allegations have surfaced in sports. Similar incidents have been reported in various disciplines, but the use of drones marks a new chapter.
