Bev Priestman departs Canada after independent report into drone use

Bev Priestman will not return as head coach of the Canadian women's soccer team following an independent report into the use of drones to spy on an opponent at this year's Paris Olympics, Canada Soccer said on Tuesday.

Priestman and two other team officials were banned from any soccer-related activity for one year by FIFA after New Zealand complained that Canadian staff flew drones over their training sessions before their opening match in Paris.

But following an independent review commissioned by Canada Soccer, the national governing body said Priestman and the other two individuals currently suspended by FIFA would not return and a search for a new head coach would commence shortly.

Preistman led Canada to a 2-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland at the 2023 World Cup, but her side failed to make it out of the group stages.

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