Head coach Bev Priestman expressed her devastation after a drone spying incident led to severe sanctions, jeopardizing the Olympic champions’ title defence.
The team has been docked six points, and Priestman received a one-year ban from Fifa.
Canadian Soccer Association officials Joseph Lombardi and Jasmine Mander also face a year-long suspension.
In a statement, Priestman apologized to her players, saying, “I am absolutely heartbroken for them.
They have worked tirelessly following a challenging 2023, and they embody sportsmanship and integrity.
As their leader, I take full accountability and will cooperate with the investigation.”
Priestman urged Canadians to continue supporting the players during this difficult time.
The incident involved using a drone to spy on a New Zealand training session, a team in Canada’s group at the Paris Games.
