Former England captain Casey Stoney has been officially named head coach of the Canadian women’s national soccer team, Canada Soccer announced on Monday. Her appointment comes in the wake of a turbulent period for the program, marked by a drone controversy and an independent review exposing cultural issues.
Stoney, who previously managed the NWSL’s San Diego Wave and earned Coach of the Year honors in 2022, will lead Canada into a new chapter. Her debut as head coach will take place next month at the Pinatar Cup in Spain.
“Together with the federation’s new leadership, we will strive to build on past successes and continue to grow the sport in Canada on and off the field,” Stoney said in a statement. “I look forward to the journey ahead.”
The appointment follows the suspension of former head coach Bev Priestman after allegations surfaced that Canadian staff used drones to monitor New Zealand’s training sessions before their Paris Olympics opener. The incident led to a six-point penalty for Canada and cast a shadow over the team’s otherwise impressive quarterfinal run.
An independent review later revealed a “pattern of unacceptable culture” within the program, prompting a leadership overhaul. Canada Soccer CEO and General Secretary Kevin Blue emphasized Stoney’s credentials as key to the team’s fresh start.
“Casey’s track record of successful leadership, her values and strength of character, and her lifelong dedication to the advancement of women’s football make her the right person to lead our national team into its next chapter,” Blue said.
Despite recent challenges, Canada’s women’s team boasts a strong legacy, including their Olympic gold medal triumph in Tokyo. Stoney’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to both competitive success and cultural reform as Canada looks to rebuild trust and momentum in women’s soccer.
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