American politician, commentator and former golfer
The Big Catch-Up has immunised 12.3 million previously zero-dose children and around 15 million who had not received a measles vaccine. The effort, spanning 36 countries, is on track to reach at least 21 million un- and under-immunised children, while emphasising routine immunisation to sustain gains beyond the pandemic.
Ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the United States have surged, with opening-match seats around $1,100 and final tickets approaching $13,000 on official channels; resale platforms show even higher figures. Officials defend dynamic pricing, while critics warn it narrows access for average fans. Hotels and travel costs are also rising, adding to the roughly month-long financial burden for attendees.
Rudy Giuliani has returned to his online show in mid-May after being hospitalised in early May with severe pneumonia, during which he was placed on a ventilator and briefly received last rites. He has described a spiritual experience during his illness, thanked supporters including the president for calls, and said he is recovering and feeling "100 percent" on air.
Security planning for the 2026 World Cup has become a sprawling, cross-border operation. Federal, state and local agencies are coordinating with private partners to monitor drone threats, deploy counter-drone tech, and protect venues, teams and dignitaries across 11 U.S. host cities, three countries and 16 venues.
The United States has opened its World Cup campaign on home soil with a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay. Christian Pulisic has been substituted at halftime as a precaution for a back-of-leg issue, while Folarin Balogun and Gio Reyna secure goals in a convincing display.
The US Department of Homeland Security has allowed Iran's national football team to enter the United States two days before its World Cup match in Seattle, but officials must still leave the country the evening of the game. Iran has criticised tighter travel rules that forced the squad to base in Tijuana and return to Mexico immediately after earlier matches.
Keir Starmer has intervened to oppose FIFA’s plan to move England’s World Cup kick-off, arguing against an earlier start to protect acclimatization at altitude. The match against Mexico was delayed by thunderstorm protocols, and England advanced to a quarter-final after a 3-2 win.
Graham Platner has withdrawn from the Maine Senate race after a former girlfriend accused him of sexual assault. He denies the allegations, saying the decision is about protecting campaigns from power structures. The Maine Democratic Party must nominate a replacement before the July 27 deadline as it races to defend Susan Collins in November.
The dispute over moving the Mexico City kick-off and related disciplinary actions around Balogun has been resolved. FIFA has kept the start time, while discussions highlighted the PM’s and US President’s differing approaches to interference and safety concerns.
England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina features enforcement of a new rule allowing red cards for players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations. Paredes questioned Kane’s actions; Hincapié and Almirón were punished earlier in the tournament for similar moves. The IFAB and FIFA have supported the measure, signaling stricter enforcement going forward.
Graham Platner has withdrawn from the Maine Senate race after a sexual assault allegation. Democrats are replacing him and will hold a nominating convention by July 27 to select a new candidate to challenge Susan Collins in November. Several contenders are weighing runs as the party grapples with the upheaval and the race tightens.
Wildfire smoke from Canadian fires has blanketed the northeastern United States, affecting air quality ahead of the Spain-Argentina final in East Rutherford. Rain and thunderstorms are forecast to improve conditions, but health warnings remain in place for players, fans and residents.
Spanish and other squads are training amid smoke from Canadian wildfires; air quality is improving but remains uncertain for Sunday. Officials warn vulnerable groups to minimize outdoor activity as a large final attendance is expected in New Jersey.
World Cup tensions flare as Argentina supporters gesture with a Falklands banner after a semi-final win. UK officials push FIFA to investigate, citing political symbols in sport; FIFA is reviewing the reports under standard procedure.
The World Cup has concluded with the United States framed as a winner by some leaders, while the White House navigates immigration policies, ticketing backlash, and diplomatic frictions. Controversies around refereeing calls and international reception have shaped the event’s legacy.
Trump has attended the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after a postponement due to a gun attack outside the Washington Hilton. He uses the stage to critique the media, tout his resilience, and tease opponents, while noting heightened security and a smaller guest list.
Donald Trump has attended and helped present medals at the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey, where Spain defeated Argentina 1-0. He has been the focal point before and after the ceremony, drawing boos and triggering debate over U.S. hosting ambitions, international diplomacy, and sports as a political stage.
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against multiple Argentina players and staff following the World Cup final loss to Spain, amid post-match clashes and a banner referencing the Falkland Islands. The case spans assault charges, unsporting behaviour, and alleged discriminatory chants, with proceedings also opened against the Argentina Football Association.