New Zealand accused Canada of spying in 2024 Paris Olympics

New Zealand accused Canada of spying by flying drones to record their practice for the 2024 Paris Olympics tournament. New Zealand filed an official complaint with the IOC (International Olympic Committee) about spying drones.

The spying incident happened when French officials held a Canadian soccer support staff member spying New Zealand soccer team, also called “Football Ferns” during their training. The alleged staff member used a drone to record the training session of the New Zealand women’s soccer team.

*Canadian football team employee spied on the New Zealand football women’s team during a training session*

Following this, French authorities arrested a Canadian spy member. After the arrest of a support worker for flying a drone over the rival team’s practice, the COC (Canadian Olympic Committee) has issued an apology statement.

COC sent a heartfelt apology to New Zealand for the spying action of a staff member. It expressed shock and disappointment. It emphasized its stand for fair play.

The committee apologized to all affected members of the women’s team and the New Zealand Olympic Committee. It also claimed to review further action with IOC, Canada Soccer, and FIFA.

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After this incident, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated it is crucial to warn people that using drones is banned even though tourists wish to snap pictures from tournaments. He also emphasized that they cannot allow anything to slip past them.

According to French media, 18,000 troops have been sent to secure this summer’s Olympic Games. Moreover, it sent additional anti-aircraft defences including a 150-kilometer radius around Paris after New Zealand accused Canada. This area will be completely blocked off for the opening ceremony of the Olympics 2024.

The match between Canada and New Zealand football teams will happen on July 25, 2024, at 11 a.m. However, it is unknown if the IOC will take action against Canada regarding the spy incident.