UPDATE: Just days after her suspension ended, former Canada national team coach Bev Priestman, embroiled in a major cheating scandal, has officially signed a two-year deal with Wellington Phoenix in the A-League Women (ALW). This shocking development is sure to stir discussions across the football community.
The controversy surrounding Priestman dates back to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where a drone incident involving the Canadian national team led to severe penalties. Authorities confirmed that the drone was used to spy on rival teams during training sessions, violating regulations and ethics in sports. As a result, Canada’s women’s team faced a 6-point deduction, severely impacting their Olympic title defense, while Priestman and her staff were banned from any football-related activities for a year.
In a twist of fate, the Phoenix appointed Priestman’s wife, Emma Humphries, to lead the club’s academy earlier this year. Speculation grew as the club announced they would reveal the new head coach in July 2023, coinciding with the end of Priestman’s suspension. Now, just three days after her ban was lifted, the Phoenix has confirmed the worst-kept secret in women’s football: Priestman is at the helm.
This appointment marks a significant milestone, positioning her as one of the most credentialed yet contentious coaches in ALW history. Fans and pundits are eager to see how her past controversies will influence her coaching style and the team’s performance.
The football world is watching closely as this story unfolds. What does this mean for the Wellington Phoenix and the future of women’s football in New Zealand? Will Priestman’s experience turn the team into championship contenders?
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it captures the attention of fans worldwide.
