Central Italian region; Rome’s home, second-largest economy after Lombardy.
Europe endures a blistering heat wave with temperatures above 40C in several countries. Italy places all 27 major cities on red heat alerts; authorities extend evening hours at Rome’s Colosseum and Pantheon and open cooling measures. Wildfires, drought and energy stress accompany the heat, prompting precautions for residents and visitors.
An explosion at KNDS Ammo Italy’s Colleferro plant, following a fire at the former Simmel Difesa site, has sparked a large emergency response. Authorities report no injuries so far; the blast appears to originate from the powder-pressing area, with investigations ongoing.
Fenerbahce has advanced to the Champions League group stage after a 2-1 win at Lyon, sealing a 3-2 aggregate and a dramatic night that ended in clashes between players and staff as Matteo Guendouzi provoked home fans.
Scotland midfielder Lewis Ferguson remains a key figure for Bologna as leadership duties shift under new coach Domenico Tedesco. Orsolini and De Silvestri assume top roles, Ferguson sits third, with Bologna opening the season in defeat as transfers and captaincy discussions unfold.
Real Madrid, under Jose Mourinho, has faced a setback in La Liga as they chase a Champions League title, while PSG, Bayern and Barcelona push for dominance in Europe. The season opens with high stakes as teams recalibrate after summer moves including Mourinho’s return to Madrid.
Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister has expressed sadness at not receiving a new contract, while teammates Szoboszlai and Gravenberch have extended deals. He has options to leave, and recent results show his form remains pivotal as Liverpool beat Atletico Madrid to start their Champions League campaign.
Como has risen from bankruptcy to Serie A, earning a first Champions League campaign. To honour long-serving fans, Mirwan Suwarso and other directors are surrendering their tickets for Como’s home opener against RB Leipzig, ensuring elderly supporters attend amid UEFA capacity rules.
Scotland’s Bowie has not represented his country since last October but is hoping to impress new Belgium coach Pocognoli ahead of an imminent squad announcement. He starred for Sassuolo in a dramatic win over Juventus, scoring late to swing a 2-1 result in a performance that could boost his international chances.
Edinburgh have claimed a 29-12 win over Zebre in a URC match, with Magnus Bradbury and James Grayson starring for the hosts. Zebre were reduced to 14 men twice and Edinburgh secured a late bonus point from a rolling maul as Tom Currie finished. Next up, Edinburgh host Toulon in the Challenge Cup.
Napoli midfiel der Scott McTominay has been cleared to resume training after a successful corrective ablation for a mild arrhythmia. He had missed Scotland fixtures while undergoing treatment and is now back with Napoli ahead of key fixtures.
Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung and confirmed lung adenocarcinoma. Doctors have said his postoperative tests and X‑rays are normal and his clinical condition allowed discharge; the Vatican has not yet said whether further treatment will be needed.
Davide Nicola’s Venezia have claimed a first Serie A win of the season by defeating Napoli 1-0 at the stadio Pierluigi Penzo. Akor Adams scored the decisive goal after a deflected start to the second half, while Filip Stankovic produced a string of key saves.