Global governing body of football, founded 1904.
Graham Platner has withdrawn from the Maine Senate race after a former girlfriend accused him of sexual assault.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.
Dutch referee Rob Dieperink, who was dropped from the World Cup list over sexual-assault allegations, has died at 38. The Met Police say the arrest in April did not meet the evidential threshold. KNVB expresses shock and sadness.
The International Olympic Committee has provisionally lifted its October 2023 suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, restoring Russian athletes' access to many international qualifiers for the 2028 Los Angeles Games while leaving decisions on flags, anthems and national symbols unresolved. Several federations, including World Athletics, have kept bans in place.
South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has been found dead at a home in Cape Town's Schotsche Kloof neighbourhood. Police have opened an inquest and are investigating; authorities have not released a cause of death. Adams had played in South Africa's three World Cup group matches and had helped the nation reach the knockout stage for the first time.
Switzerland’s World Cup quarter-final ended in controversy as Breel Embolo received a second yellow following a VAR review for simulation, overturning an initial yellow to Leandro Paredes. Argentina progress to the semi-finals after extra time with goals from Alvarez and Martinez; Embolo’s red card sparks criticism of the new mistaken-identity rule.
England is advancing in the World Cup and officials are considering a bank holiday if England wins. The government has signalled possible announcements at the NATO summit as England faces Norway in the quarter-finals.
New York lawmakers propose a 10% self-checkout discount for shoppers at stores that also sell food. The bill, introduced in May, would require supermarkets to offer the discount, funded by saved labor costs. The measure is in early stages and would need committee votes before becoming law.
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.
A high-profile political comment has sparked condemnation across Europe ahead of a World Cup semifinal between Spain and France. Former Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy wrote that the French team lacks French players. French and Spanish leaders have decried the remarks as racist, while France prepares to face Spain in Dallas.
Infantino says expansion to 64 teams will be examined after the 2026 World Cup. The 48-team format is deemed a success, and further growth is on the table for 2030, with debates spanning continents and stakeholders.
Mbappé and Messi have pushed into a tie for the Golden Boot after Mbappé’s eighth goal against Morocco. Messi leads the race with 8 goals, while Haaland and Kane trail as Spain and France prepare for a semifinal clash. Yamal continues for Spain amid injuries to Williams.
Folarin Balogun has been ruled to continue for the World Cup knockout clash after FIFA suspends his automatic red-card ban following a personal appeal from President Trump. The decision has drawn sharp reactions from Belgium and other observers as the co-hosts push toward the quarterfinals.
Co-host Mexico has advanced to the Round of 16 at World Cup 2026 after a 2-0 win over Ecuador, triggering huge public celebrations in Mexico City. At least two deaths have been confirmed due to crowd crush and asphyxiation near Paseo de la Reforma, prompting security tightenings and traffic controls. Authorities urge responsible celebrations as fans watch from designated areas.
France has been eliminated from the World Cup after a 2-0 loss to Spain in the semi-final. Deschamps has managed France for 14 years, achieving a World Cup title in 2018 and a final in 2022, ending with a final farewell in Dallas. Spain advance to the final as they beat France in Texas.
England has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals following a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring the decisive goal. The Guardian, Independent, and BBC coverage highlight how England now faces Argentina in the semi-final in Atlanta, while questions swirl over manager Tuchel and the team’s prospects against Messi and co.
The Balogun red card has been reversed, allowing the US striker to play in the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium after FIFA lifted the automatic one‑match suspension. Belgium had sought a review and urged FIFA to uphold the ban.
Fifa has announced the closing ceremony lineup for World Cup 2026, to be held 90 minutes before the final in New Jersey. IShowSpeed, Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson are among the performers, with halftime shows featuring additional stars. The event aims to celebrate the 48-team tournament across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Balogun remains at the centre of the World Cup narrative as controversy over his red card and Trump’s intervention continues to unfold, with ongoing debates about birthright citizenship and American identity shaping coverage.
The FIFA World Cup final halftime show has expanded beyond its original lineup, featuring Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus and Sesame Street characters. Justin Bieber is in talks to join, while Chris Martin has curated the event to raise funds for education and football access worldwide.
Jude Bellingham scores twice as England overturn a Norway lead to beat the Norwegians 2-1 after extra time and secure a place in the World Cup semi-finals; Haaland is limited and a disallowed goal shapes the second half in Miami, in searing heat.
Officials’ decisions come under fire after England’s round-of-16 and quarter-final exits, with critics pointing to perceived refereeing pressure and controversial calls. The discourse includes post-match reactions from coaches and players, and questions about future sanctions from FIFA.
England has reached the 2026 World Cup semi-finals after Jude Bellingham’s extra-time strike secured a 2-1 win over Norway, with Thomas Tuchel labelling his side “lucky” but standing by the players. The victory sets up a showdown with Argentina in the semi-final.
France and Spain meet in the World Cup 2026 semi-final in Dallas, with the winner advancing to the final in New York. England face Argentina in the other semi-final in Atlanta, as Lionel Messi targets back-to-back finals. The final is on July 19 at 8pm BST.
FIFA has suspended Balogun’s one-match ban, applying Article 27 to suspend the enforcement for a year. Quansah’s red card is doubled to two matches, with questions raised about FIFA’s handling and Trump’s intervention. England face Norway while Balogun remains eligible for the US squad under probation.
The World Cup continues to be marred by contentious VAR decisions. England beats Norway 2-1 and Argentina defeats Switzerland as refereeing decisions draw scrutiny over snicko and VAR with debates over consistency and the role of technology.
The World Cup is driving spending and tourism in U.S. host cities, with hotels posting higher rates and restaurants seeing a lift in activity as fans travel to games. Early group-stage demand was uneven, but knockout games have boosted RevPAR and short-term rentals, signaling a broader economic impact beyond the stadiums.
Qatar has announced four days of national mourning after the death of Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled from 1995 to 2013 and transformed the small emirate into a major regional power. Crowds and dignitaries have gathered in Lusail for funeral prayers and tributes, while the new emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, receives mourners and foreign leaders.
The Supreme Court issues a 6-3 set of decisions affecting race, immigration protections and birthright citizenship. It allows ending temporary protected status for Haitians and Syrians, reaffirms birthright citizenship, and signals ongoing debates about diversity policies and anti-discrimination enforcement.
Citizens across the United States express resilience, unity, and pride ahead of a 250th Independence celebration. AP interviews capture personal takes on freedom, patriotism, and the role of national symbols, set against a backdrop of political division and public gatherings.
Portugal defeats Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup clash, with Gonçalo Ramos' stoppage-time header sealing progress to the last 16 as VAR denies a late Croatian equaliser and Cristiano Ronaldo features in what could be his World Cup swan song.
Egypt's coach has openly shown solidarity with Palestinians after a 4-2 penalty victory over Australia in the World Cup round of 32. The gesture supports Gaza amid the ongoing crisis, while FIFA confirms that Palestinian flags are permitted at the tournament. Hassan says Egypt and the Arab world represent a broader regional moment.
Morocco has moved into the World Cup knockout rounds with a disciplined, counter-attacking display, while questions linger over their former coach and the direction of the team.
Trump marks the 250th anniversary with a Capitol rally and a national mall event, touting achievements while warning of a communist threat. The event faced heat and a weather evacuation, with global leaders sending messages of support and criticism of the administration’s approach to the celebration.
Egypt led 2-0 before a stoppage-time comeback by Argentina secures a 3-2 victory. Egypt alleges bias and calls for an investigation into referees and VAR decisions. The federation has filed complaints with FIFA amid claims of double standards and external influence.
World Cup coverage shows a surge in online abuse against players, with authorities noting a rising pattern of racist and discriminatory behavior on and off the pitch. FIFA data indicates a spike in reports to law enforcement and monitoring bodies, while unions call for stronger action from platforms and governments.
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.
France defeats Morocco 2-0 in Boston as Kylian Mbappe scores and assists, sealing a quarter-final win. Morocco, though ambitious and talented, cannot overturn the deficit and eyes turn to AFCON and 2030 World Cup co-hosting.
Ticket data from FIFA and PMAs show dramatic price variation for the 2026 World Cup final and surrounding matches, with front-row seats commanding tens of thousands of dollars while cheaper options exist, highlighting affordability concerns and the economics of major sports events.
FIFA has been selling souvenir turf pieces from the MetLife final for about $450 each, with larger tiers up to $3,000. The turf originates from a North Carolina farm and will ship after the final. Tickets for the final reach up to $32,970, with hospitality options at $34,500 and $32,500. Critics say prices are steep, while FIFA promotes the memorabilia as a historic collectible.
Argentina defeats Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to reach the World Cup semi-finals. A late red card for Embolo for simulation after a VAR review changes the course of the match, with Argentina capturing victory after extra time through Alvarez and Martinez. England will face Argentina next after England beat Norway to reach the semis.
Former Qatari emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at 74. His abdication in 2013 paved the way for a peaceful transition of power to his son, while his leadership transformed Qatar into a global energy, media and diplomatic heavyweight.
The Independent and AP News report that Jay-Z’s Yankee Stadium residency opened late after hundreds of ticketless fans rushed entrances. He has told the crowd he delayed to avoid trampling; organizers say doors were shut briefly as security contained the breaches. No arrests are confirmed.
The United States ahead of a Belgium defeat saw Balogun's red-card suspension suspended for a year after political intervention, prompting widespread criticism and calls for accountability as the case draws fresh scrutiny of FIFA and IOC conduct.