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From errant drones to long-delayed refereeing calls, technology is sparking dramatic scenes at this year's Olympic Games in Paris — even before they've even formally begun.
On Wednesday, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) apologized after a women's soccer team staff member was caught flying a drone over a training session of soon-to-be opponents New Zealand Football.
The Canadian team's staff member was apparently trying to spy on the practice by recording it, the COC said in its statement.
"We offer our heartfelt apologies to New Zealand Football, to all the players affected, and to the New Zealand Olympic Committee," the organization wrote.
The New Zealand Olympic Committee said in its own statement that it was "deeply shocked and disappointed."
COC later confirmed two staffers — an unaccredited analyst and assistant coach — were being sent home immediately, and head coach Bev Priestman would "remove herself" from the New Zealand match Thursday.
That's not the only mishap thus far.
In the first game of the Olympic men's soccer tournament between Argentina and Morocco, VAR (video assistant referee) technology and rowdy crowds resulted in an equalizing goal being disqualified — an hour and a half after the match had already concluded, The Athletic reports.
The game appeared to have been over after Argentina's late goal, and Morocco fans stormed the field. But with the stadium emptied, VAR referees determined the play was offside, ruling out the goal.
The contentious game then resumed in an empty stadium.
Argentina head coach Javier Mascherano referred to the fiasco as a "circus," according to The Athletic — a sentiment that Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi appeared to echo in an Instagram Story.
The Olympic Games formally kick off on Friday, with the Opening Ceremony starting at 1:30 p.m. ET.
