Messi in the news as he headlines Argentina’s 2026 World Cup squad and teases a final run at the tournament for Inter Miami captaincy. Argentine forward, 1987-born, Barca icon turned MLS star.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11 across North America, with 48 teams and 104 matches. While most venues are prepared, infrastructure challenges remain, and Iran's potential withdrawal due to US tensions raises concerns about tournament integrity and participation.
The scheduled Finalissima between Spain and Argentina in Qatar was canceled due to regional political tensions and safety concerns. UEFA explored alternatives, but Argentina rejected multiple options, including playing in Europe or over two legs. The match was part of the Qatar Football Festival, but regional conflicts and logistical issues led to its cancellation.
On March 24, 2026, Mohamed Salah announced he will leave Liverpool at the end of the 2025-26 season, ending a nine-year tenure. Salah and Liverpool agreed to terminate his contract a year early, allowing him to become a free agent. Potential destinations include Saudi Arabia's Pro League and Major League Soccer, while New York City FC has not yet engaged in talks.
Barcelona's women's team secured a dominant 6-1 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals, with key goals from Pajor, Brugts, and Putellas. The Catalans now have a strong chance to reach their eighth consecutive semifinal, despite injuries to key players. Madrid faces a tough second leg.
Lionel Messi has helped Inter Miami secure a 3-2 victory over Colorado Rapids, scoring two goals including a late winner. The match drew the second-highest MLS attendance. Messi's performance follows his recent signing with Cornella, marking a significant chapter in his career. The game was the first since coach Javier Mascherano's departure.
Panini has released its largest-ever World Cup sticker album for the United States, Canada and Mexico tournament, with 980 stickers across 112 pages. The price of a pack is 1.25 pounds in the UK; collectors face a potentially high outlay to complete the set, with special stickers and a growing vintage market highlighted by headlines from Wembley launch events.
FIA, F1 and teams have moved to fast-track changes to power-unit regulations after a Miami weekend marked by energy-management concerns. Officials aim to tilt the balance toward the internal-combustion engine, with new talks about larger fuel tanks and possible future V8s to restore flat-out racing. The shift comes as teams upgrade ahead of the 2027 rules and long-term engine plans are debated.
The Vancouver Whitecaps are entering a new phase as a buyer group led by Grant Gustavson seeks to relocate the MLS club to Las Vegas, with MLS evaluating options for the team’s future amid a fragile lease and limited revenue options at BC Place.
Paris Saint-Germain has beaten Bayern Munich 5-4 in a high-octane Champions League semi-final first leg. Harry Kane leads a late fightback, while the tie remains open ahead of the return leg at the Allianz Arena.
Argentina has named Lionel Messi among 55 players in its preliminary World Cup squad, with ongoing questions over his availability. Gianluca Prestianni faces a worldwide ban extension that could affect Argentina’s opening games; the World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, with Algeria, Austria and Jordan in Argentina’s group.
The World Cup is expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches this summer, with sportsbooks and prediction markets driving a record- breaking wagering surge in the United States. Analysts say mobile betting, broader formats, and mainstream interest are fueling this growth, while U.S. lawmakers weigh regulation of prediction markets.
The U.S. Embassy in India has launched a campaign featuring auto-rickshaws adorned with portraits of Trump and the Statue of Liberty to celebrate 250 years of American independence, with the rollout described as part of broader outreach. The initiative is unfolding as ties with India face broader scrutiny after tariff tensions, and questions remain about the reach and impact of the ads.
Spain has named its 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, with Lamine Yamal as a star presence. For the first time since 1950, no Real Madrid player features as Dean Huijsen is injured and Dani Carvajal is left out. Mikel Merino has returned from injury, and Yamal faces a potential hamstring issue ahead of the tournament.
Argentina has named a 26-man World Cup squad, led by Lionel Messi, despite a left hamstring fatigue that has sidelined him from Inter Miami's latest match. Recovery times vary; Argentina will base in Kansas City with friendlies in the lead-up.
Sotheby’s has announced an online auction for Pelé’s match-worn No. 10 shirt from the 1958 World Cup final. The 17-year-old Brazil forward helped secure a 5-2 win over Sweden. The auction runs June 29–July 16, with potential to surpass existing records in football memorabilia.
Spain's World Cup squad has been announced; Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are listed but hamstring injuries have raised fitness concerns. De la Fuente has emphasised continuation programmes with clubs and potential limited minutes if needed. Spain aims to defend European title and perform strongly in Canada, Mexico and the United States.