Football: Coach Jitka Klimkova stands down from Football Ferns for Paris Olympics

Jitka Klimkova has withdrawn from her role as head coach of the Football Ferns for the upcoming Paris Olympics.  

The decision follows the conclusion of an independent workplace employment investigation earlier 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.

But after consultation with New Zealand Football, the organisation says Klimkova's concerns in relation to 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 be bringing 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 dressing room's confidence.

Sources within the team confirm 'players only' meetings were held, led by senior players to try and remove her as coach.

They wanted her out as soon as possible, despite having three years to run on her deal.

Klimkova signed a six year extension in 2021 through until the next World Cup in 2027.

More to come

Jitka Klimkova has withdrawn from her role as head coach of the Football Ferns for the upcoming Paris Olympics.  

The decision follows the conclusion of an independent workplace employment investigation earlier 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.

But after consultation with New Zealand Football, the organisation says Klimkova's concerns in relation to 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 be bringing 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 dressing room's confidence.

Sources within the team confirm 'players only' meetings were held, led by senior players to try and remove her as coach.

They wanted her out as soon as possible, despite having three years to run on her deal.

Klimkova signed a six year extension in 2021 through until the next World Cup in 2027.

More to come

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