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Bev Priestman, the former Canada women’s football manager banned for using drones to spy on rivals at the 2024 Olympics, is making her return to the game as head coach of New Zealand club Wellington Phoenix.
Priestman was handed a one-year suspension from all football-related activities by FIFA after Canadian officials were caught using drones to observe New Zealand’s training sessions ahead of their Olympic opener in Paris. An investigation later found that Canada had been monitoring other teams’ preparations in a similar manner.
Despite the controversy, Wellington Phoenix have welcomed Priestman’s appointment, with chairman Rob Morrison saying he was “really pleased” to bring her on board.
“We all know she’s had a period of time away from the game, but we understand the circumstances and are very comfortable with this appointment,” said Morrison. “Bev can’t wait to get started, and we’re delighted she’ll be coaching the Phoenix.”
Priestman expressed excitement at returning to the sport and taking up the role at New Zealand’s only professional women’s football club.
“I’m thrilled to be back in football with Wellington Phoenix,” she said. “It’s a fantastic club with big ambitions, world-class facilities and a phenomenal fan base. I can’t wait to get to work, connect with everyone in the building, and meet our amazing supporters.”
Reflecting on her new chapter in the country her team was caught spying on, Priestman added: “Coming back to New Zealand and seeing the Phoenix play week in, week out has been amazing. We now have a responsibility to represent this country proudly and aim to achieve something special.”
The appointment marks a dramatic return to the sport for Priestman, who had guided Canada to Olympic gold in 2021 and was widely regarded as one of the most promising coaches in women’s football prior to the scandal.
