New Zealand has filed a complaint with the International Olympic Committee’s integrity unit after discovering that a drone, operated by a member of the Canadian team’s support staff, flew over a training session for the New Zealand women’s soccer team.
The incident occurred earlier this week, according to the New Zealand Olympic Committee, just days before the Olympic tournament’s opening match between defending champion Canada and New Zealand.
“After team support members promptly reported the incident to the police, the drone operator, identified as a member of the Canadian Women’s football team’s support staff, was detained,” the NZOC stated in a release.
The NZOC has officially reported the incident to the IOC integrity unit and has requested a comprehensive review from Canada.
The Canadian Olympic Committee expressed regret over the incident and issued apologies to New Zealand Football, the affected players, and the New Zealand Olympic Committee.
“The Canadian Olympic Committee advocates for fair play, and we are dismayed and sorry,” the committee’s statement read.
Both the NZOC and New Zealand Football emphasized their commitment to maintaining the integrity and fairness of the Olympic Games. Currently, their primary focus is on supporting the New Zealand women’s football team and the entire squad as they commence their campaign.
