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OG 24 09 Canadian Olympic Committee & Canada Soccer v. FIFA, et. Al (CAS)

Why it matters

This case is the first known instance of drone espionage during the Olympic Games, setting a precedent for how sports governing bodies and CAS treat spying violations. It affirms that federations are strictly liable for the actions of their staff, even if players are unaware, and that severe sporting sanctions (like points deductions) can be proportionate to protect fair play, even if they affect innocent athletes.

Summary

During the 2024 Paris Olympics, a Canada Soccer staff member, Joseph Lombardi, used a drone to film New Zealand's training sessions on 20 and 22 July 2024. He was caught, pleaded guilty, and received an 8-month suspended prison sentence. FIFA's Appeal Committee imposed a six-point deduction on Canada's women's football team in the group stage and a CHF 200,000 fine, citing breaches of fair play and integrity. Canada Soccer and the Canadian Olympic Committee appealed to the CAS Ad Hoc Division, arguing the points deduction was grossly disproportionate and unfairly punished players who had no knowledge or involvement. The CAS Panel, applying the Olympic Charter, FIFA regulations, and general principles of law, dismissed the appeal. It held that the sanction was not grossly disproportionate given the gravity of the offense, the need for deterrence, and the strict liability of federations for their staff. The Panel noted that the players were not sanctioned directly, but consequences on them were an inevitable result of the organization's wrongdoing. The decision was rendered quickly to allow the tournament to proceed.

The detail

Parties: OG 24 09 Canadian Olympic Committee & Canada Soccer v. FIFA, et. Al

Outcome: Application dismissed; six-point deduction and CHF 200,000 fine upheld.

Quantum: CHF 200,000

Applicable law: FIFA Disciplinary Code (2023), Regulations Olympic Football Tournaments Paris 2024, Olympic Charter, CAS Ad Hoc Rules, Swiss PILA

Issues in play: The proportionality of a points deduction sanction under FIFA's disciplinary framework versus the principle of fair play and the integrity of the Olympic Games.

Read the full decision at Court of Arbitration for Sport (football, via FIFA) ↗

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