As the federation is still without a collective bargaining agreement with its national teams, Nick Bontis has resigned as president of Canada Soccer.
Due to a pay dispute, Canada Soccer is coming under increasing pressure from both its men’s and women’s teams.
Earlier this month, the women’s team had planned to strike, but they abandoned their plans when legal action was threatened.
They played instead “under protest” and openly discussed the possibility of boycotting an April camp if an agreement had not been reached by that stage.
However, given that both the men’s and women’s teams have asked for changes to Canada Soccer’s management, Bontis’ departure might be seen as a sign of progress.
As his exit – effectively immediately – was confirmed on Monday, Bontis said in a statement: “Canada Soccer and both of our national team programs have the real potential to sign a historic collective bargaining agreement.
“Once signed, it will be a landmark deal that will set our nation apart from virtually every other FIFA member association.
“While I have been one of the biggest proponents of equalising the competitive performance environment for our women’s national team, I will unfortunately not be leading this organisation when it happens. I acknowledge that this moment requires change.”