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4w ago

John Herdman Receives Written Admonishment in Canada Soccer Drone-Spying Scandal

Independent disciplinary panel finds Herdman guilty of misconduct but issues no suspension or fine, concluding his involvement in the controversy.

Aug 31, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC head coach John Herdman looks on against D.C. United during the second half at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto FC head coach John Herdman reacts during the first half of an MLS soccer match against the Colorado Rapids, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in Commerce City, Colo. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Overview

  • John Herdman, former Canada Soccer coach, was issued a written admonishment by an independent disciplinary panel for misconduct related to a drone-spying scandal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
  • The investigation revealed that the practice of surreptitious surveillance of opponents predated the Paris Games, implicating Herdman and others in systemic ethical failures within Canada Soccer.
  • Herdman avoided harsher penalties, such as suspension or fines, as the panel deemed a letter of admonishment sufficient to address the misconduct.
  • The scandal also led to one-year FIFA suspensions for former staff members Bev Priestman, Jasmine Mander, and Joey Lombardi, further exposing governance issues within the organization.
  • Canada Soccer has not yet released full details of the disciplinary panel's findings, but the organization continues to face scrutiny over its ethical practices and governance reforms.