South Korean boy band; global pop phenomenon and longtime collaborators in music
Record ticket and travel prices have left many supporters unable to attend the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA's dynamic pricing, an expanded 48-team schedule and rising transport and accommodation costs have pushed some fans to cancel plans, resell tickets or watch from home, while host states warn of heavy transit bills. (Updated 17 Jun 2026)
The Rolling Stones have released Foreign Tongues, continuing Hackney Diamonds-era momentum. The album blends blues, disco and rock with sharp political edges, including references to Musk and US politics, while Mick Jagger’s voice remains a defining force at 82.
The 2026 World Cup, staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is drawing to a close with an Argentina–Spain final in New Jersey. Closing ceremonies are planned as a marquee event with star performances and a longer halftime, while the final kicks off at 20:00 UK time on July 19, 2026.
Spain and Argentina reach final after tense semi-finals; opening ceremony controversies and high-profile performances mark the build-up as organisers push for a united, dramatic conclusion.
World Cup controversy surrounds Balogun’s suspended ban after a call from Donald Trump to FIFA president Infantino. The ban was suspended for 12 months, allowing Balogun to play in the last-16. European football bodies and critics say the decision undermines the game’s credibility ahead of 2027–31 reform talks.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim a second World Cup title. Ferran Torres scores the decisive goal in the 106th minute, capping a dominant display and a robust defensive performance from Luis de la Fuente’s side.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim the World Cup title, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal. The match features a tense post-final scuffle that FIFA is reviewing; Unai Simón records a standout defensive performance.
Spain has won the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Ferran Torres scores the decisive goal in extra time against Argentina. Lionel Messi is left in tears after a final that ended Argentina’s title defense. A star-studded halftime show featured Madonna, BTS, Shakira and Justin Bieber. Trump attended the ceremony with FIFA President Infantino amid security chatter and mixed reactions from fans.
Tebas has criticised FIFA president Infantino, calling his tenure “rotten at its core” and arguing for fewer national teams to protect domestic football. He also criticises hydration breaks and a 64‑team World Cup idea, saying the sport’s industry is at risk if decisions focus on the World Cup alone.
BTS has decided not to submit its ARIRANG album for the 2027 Grammys. The seven-member group has posted identical statements on Instagram emphasizing music should be heard for what it is, not defined by region or language. The Recording Academy says the new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category aims to celebrate Asian pop artistry, while critics worry it could isolate Asian acts.
Three children entered the Passaic River near Pulaski Park in Passaic, New Jersey. A 10-year-old boy has drowned after helping his sister to safety; an 11-year-old survived, and another 10-year-old remains missing as rescuers continue a river-and-docks search.
Sainsbury’s has agreed to sell Argos and the Habitat brand to Swift Partners. The deal will complete in February 2027 with full separation by 2029. Argos will continue to operate normally during the transition, and staff will transfer to Swift. The move allows Sainsbury’s to focus on its core groceries business.