Drone Spying in Olympics: Soccer Coach Gets Admonished

Former Canada soccer coach John Herdman has received a written admonishment following a disciplinary committee hearing related to a drone-spying scandal at the Paris Olympics, according to ESPN. This case highlights the growing intersection between Drone Technology and professional sports, raising important questions about surveillance ethics and regulatory compliance.

Details of the Disciplinary Action

The disciplinary hearing was conducted by a three-person panel independent of Canada Soccer after Herdman was cited in a report on the drone surveillance scandal. An independent Review commissioned by Canada Soccer concluded that the “practice of conducting surreptitious surveillance of opponents” predated the Paris Games, suggesting this wasn’t an isolated incident.

Herdman was specifically charged under Canada Soccer’s Code of Conduct and Ethics for conduct “considered to be unsporting, insulting, or improper behavior or is likely to bring the game into disrepute.” The disciplinary committee determined that a letter of admonishment was the appropriate sanction, which represents the lighter end of potential penalties that could have included suspension or lifetime ban.

Broader Impact on Olympic Team

The drone-spying scandal had already resulted in significant consequences for Canada Soccer. Women’s coach Bev Priestman, assistant coach Jasmine Mander, and analyst Joey Lombardi all lost their positions, with all three currently serving one-year suspensions imposed by FIFA. Lombardi reportedly resigned his position shortly after the Olympics.

Herdman’s Response and Career Context

“I acknowledge the disciplinary committee’s decision, which concluded with an admonishment, without suspension or fine, and brings this matter to a close,” Herdman stated in response to the ruling. He added: “Throughout my career, I have led with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the game. That has not changed.”

Herdman had a notable career with Canada Soccer before this controversy. He led the Canadian women’s team to bronze medals at both the 2012 and 2016 Olympics after taking over in 2011. In January 2018, he switched to coaching the Canadian men’s team, guiding them to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar—their first appearance at the tournament since 1986. He left Canada Soccer in August 2023 to coach Toronto FC but resigned from that position on November 29, with many linking his departure to this investigation.

Regulatory Considerations for Drone Operations

This case illustrates the complex regulatory landscape surrounding drone use in professional sports. Beyond standard aviation regulations, sports organizations have their own rules regarding fair play and ethical conduct. The incident demonstrates how unauthorized drone surveillance can potentially violate multiple layers of regulations and ethical standards.

DroneXL’s Take on Drone Spying Scandal

This high-profile case serves as an important reminder of the ethical responsibilities that come with drone technology. While drones offer tremendous benefits for sports analysis, training, and broadcasting, their surveillance capabilities require clear guidelines and responsible use. The Drone Industry should work proactively with sports organizations to develop standards that preserve legitimate applications while preventing surveillance abuses.

As drone technology continues to advance and become more accessible, sports governing bodies will likely need to develop more specific policies regarding drone use around practices, training facilities, and competitions. Balancing technological innovation with fair play principles will be essential as drones become increasingly integrated into the sports landscape.

Photo courtesy of Canada Soccer / X