HOW LOSING FOOTBALL FERNS DRESSINGROOM LED TO COACH KLIMKOVA STANDING DOWN FROM PARIS OLYMPICS

Jitka Klimkova has withdrawn from her role as head coach of the Football Ferns for the upcoming Paris Olympics, after an incident that has seen her lose the confidence of her players.

The decision follows an independent workplace employment investigation this month, which cleared Klimkova to lead the team at Paris 2024. She took a leave of absence during the investigation, missing the Ferns' two friendlies against Japan in Spain.

NZ Football says Klimkova's concerns over the team environment, her wellbeing and an incomplete restorative process mean her return will be delayed.

In her absence, assistant coach Michael Mayne will again step in as head coach in France and will bring in additional support staff.

Newshub understands an incident prompted the initial investigation, the details of which remain unclear. As a result of this incident, Klimkova has lost the dressingroom's confidence. 

Sources within the team confirm 'players only' meetings were held, led by senior players to try and remove her as coach, despite having three years to run on her deal. 

In 2021, Klimkova signed a six-year extension to take her through until the next World Cup in 2027. 

2024-06-28T05:37:19Z dg43tfdfdgfd