PARIS—Sport Canada is holding back funding for women’s soccer coach Bev Priestman and two other suspended team officials due to the drone scandal that has shaken the Paris Olympic soccer tournament and brought shame to all Canadians.
Canada’s team received a six-point deduction, dealing a major blow to their chances of defending their Olympic title. Meanwhile, Ms. Priestman and officials Joseph Lombardi and Jasmine Mander have been barred from any soccer-related activities for a year by FIFA.
“Using a drone to spy on another team during a closed practice is cheating,” said Canada’s sport minister Carla Qualtrough in a statement. “It is unfair to Canadian players and to opposing teams, undermining the integrity of the game itself.
“As the Women’s Program is funded by Sport Canada, we are suspending funding for the duration of their FIFA sanction for the suspended Canada Soccer officials.
“There is a troubling pattern of behavior at Canada Soccer that needs to be addressed. This issue has caused significant distraction and embarrassment for Team Canada and all Canadians, both in Paris and at home.”
Canada Soccer is considering how to appeal the six-point penalty imposed by FIFA, leaving Canada with a negative three points in Group A with two matches remaining.
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They are set to play against France on July 28.
Former Canada players have expressed their support for the team.
“Furious. Fuming. Sad. Heartbroken. These players don’t deserve this,” former goalkeeper Stephanie Labbe, who contributed to Canada’s gold medal win in Tokyo, shared on X.
“They have been let down by many of their own, not just the national team staff.
“Standing by these players and all who have been part of this program, working hard to build it up, not tear it down.”
Diana Matheson, who retired in 2020 after 206 appearances for Canada over a 17-year career, fully supports the players.
“Like many Canadians, I have been processing many emotions regarding this story that has become such a distraction for not only the WNT, but has shifted focus away from the entire Canadian Olympic team,” she stated.
“I stand with the players. I’m here for you. Canadians are here for you. Last game, next game, all the games, we are right there with you.
“Take six points from us? Fine, let’s go get nine.”
