Drone spying scandal scares soccer sponsors

Advertisers are deeply concerned’ about allegations, but they aren’t fleeing Canadian women’s team yet

- JOSH RUBIN

The drone spying scandal enveloping Canadian soccer hasn’t yet cost the team any sponsors — but affiliated companies are becoming increasingly concerned.

While most wouldn’t comment on the record, those who did say they’re keeping a close eye on the scandal, which was sparked by the arrest of a Canadian women’s team staff member at the Paris Olympics for spying on an opponent’s practice.

“All of us … are deeply concerned about these allegations, and … we have expressed those concerns directly to the leadership team at Canada Soccer,” said Bob Park, chief brand officer at GE Appliances Canada, listed on the association’s website as one of the organization’s partners. “We are fierce supporters of the beautiful game in Canada, and to the spirit of what makes international competition so powerful: equity, fairness and sportsmanship.”

An executive at another sponsor expressed similar sentiments.