News for '-free'

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot and Pedro Porro added another goal as Spain advanced to its first World Cup final since winning in 2010 with a 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday.

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Donald Trump announced he is replacing the 20% reimbursement fee for securing the Strait of Hormuz with massive trade and investment deals from Gulf States into the United States, while maintaining a full blockade on Iranian ship traffic.

Avani Prashanth And Diksha Dagar Impress At Dutch Ladies Open

Avani Prashanth And Diksha Dagar Impress At Dutch Ladies Open

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Indian golfers Avani Prashanth and Diksha Dagar made an impressive start at the Dutch Ladies Open, both carding three-under 69s to share fifth place, just one shot off the lead. While Pranavi Urs is well-placed for the cut, Hitaashee Bakshi struggled on the opening day.

FIFA World Cup: Ancelotti's surprise gift leaves Norway coach stunned

FIFA World Cup: Ancelotti's surprise gift leaves Norway coach stunned

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Norway's coach Stale Solbakken reflects on their historic 2-1 World Cup last-16 victory over Brazil, revealing a gracious gesture from opposing coach Carlo Ancelotti that resolved a pre-match spat. Solbakken also shared his sleepless night after the win and his team's preparations for the quarter-finals against England.

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup knockout victory, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in a last-32 match at Dallas Stadium, advancing to the last-16.

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Notwithstanding the economic complementarities and the host of agreements for deepening economic relation on a host of areas, both sides share common viewpoints on the foreign policy domain and seek common grounds to serve as a counterweight to China, notes Dr Rajaram Panda.

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lauded his team's ability to 'suffer without losing belief' after their dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals, highlighting their growth in navigating challenging situations.

Muchova outlasts Gauff in classic, seals maiden Wimbledon final berth

Muchova outlasts Gauff in classic, seals maiden Wimbledon final berth

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Karolina Muchova ended Coco Gauff's incredible run of living dangerously at this year's Wimbledon as she saved a match point to topple the American in a 6-2, 1-6, 7-6 (12-10) thriller to keep alive hopes of setting up an all-Czech final at a Grand Slam for the first time.

Modi stopped Putin from using nuclear weapons on Ukraine in 2022: Polish min

Modi stopped Putin from using nuclear weapons on Ukraine in 2022: Polish min

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Poland's Secretary of State, Wladyslaw T Bartoszewski, has credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with preventing Russian President Vladimir Putin from using tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine in late 2022, highlighting Modi's significant influence on the Russian leader.

Vishal Uppal: Let Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi Evolve Naturally

Vishal Uppal: Let Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi Evolve Naturally

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Asian Games medallist Vishal Uppal has advised against creating excessive hype around young Indian tennis sensation Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi, urging the fraternity to let her develop naturally rather than pressuring her to emulate Sania Mirza. Uppal believes Maaya, a top 20 junior player, has the potential to break into the top 100 in professional tennis if she maintains her hard work and hunger. He also highlighted the challenges of professional tennis and praised another prospect, Dakshineshwar Suresh.

Colombia, Portugal make last 32 stage after goalless draw

Colombia, Portugal make last 32 stage after goalless draw

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Portugal and Colombia played to a 0-0 draw in their final World Cup Group K match, with Colombia securing the top spot and Portugal finishing second. Both teams advanced to the last 32, setting up future clashes against Ghana and Croatia respectively.

Women Arrested After Attempting to Free Relative from Police Custody in Meerut

Women Arrested After Attempting to Free Relative from Police Custody in Meerut

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Three women in Meerut have been arrested for allegedly attacking a female police officer and attempting to free a family member who was in police custody on charges related to the Arms Act.

Rhea Chakraborty Is Such A Diva!

Rhea Chakraborty Is Such A Diva!

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

As she celebrates her 34th birthday, here's a look at seven outfits that prove her style is as versatile as it is memorable.

Anxiety Grows Over SIR Verification

Anxiety Grows Over SIR Verification

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The population is gripped by anxiety against arbitrariness and the cruelty of a state that sells its actions as minimum government, asserts Aakar Patel.

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition deteriorated further on Wednesday, with doctors reporting that he has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.

Beware of fake FIFA World Cup streaming platforms, warn Kerala Police

Beware of fake FIFA World Cup streaming platforms, warn Kerala Police

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kerala police have issued a warning about a sophisticated cyber fraud targeting football fans. Scammers are using fake OTT apps and social media advertisements promising free access to FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. These malicious apps gain control of users' phones and illegally withdraw money from bank accounts. The police advise downloading apps only from official stores and being cautious of suspicious permissions.

FIFA World Cup: Belgium players troll Trump after crushing USA

FIFA World Cup: Belgium players troll Trump after crushing USA

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Belgium players celebrated their 4-1 FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over hosts United States with a dance inspired by US President Donald Trump. Romelu Lukaku and teammates performed the viral dance after Lukaku's stoppage-time goal sealed their quarter-final spot. The US Men's National Team thanked supporters after their elimination, while Belgium, led by Charles De Ketelaere's brace, will face Spain next.

The Balogun controversy that rocked the FIFA World Cup

The Balogun controversy that rocked the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, despite a controversial FIFA decision to suspend his red card ban, struggled in the World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium, leading to the U.S. team's elimination. The decision, which saw U.S. President Donald Trump claim credit, sparked accusations of political pressure on FIFA, while Balogun's birthright citizenship also came under scrutiny.

Mahadev betting app founder Sourabh Chandrakar detained in Oman

Mahadev betting app founder Sourabh Chandrakar detained in Oman

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Sourabh Chandrakar, the absconding founder of the Mahadev betting app, has been detained in Oman based on an Interpol Red Notice. Indian agencies are now working to extradite or deport him. The ED's investigation into the syndicate has revealed alleged proceeds of crime worth Rs 6,000 crore and links to high-ranking politicians and bureaucrats.

Buttler Smashes Century As England Demolish India To Complete 4-0 T20I Series Whitewash

Buttler Smashes Century As England Demolish India To Complete 4-0 T20I Series Whitewash

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Jos Buttler rolled back the years with a blistering century, while skipper Harry Brook hammered a quickfire 95 as England annihilated an out-of-sorts India by 56 runs in the fifth and final T20 International.

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae said comments from World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger could be labelled racist after the ex-Germany midfielder described African football as "wild" and "unorthodox".

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in their World Cup last-32 encounter, which extended into extra time. An own goal in the 111th minute ultimately decided the match, sending the reigning champions into the last 16 where they will face Egypt.

Why Young Couples Don't Want Kids

Why Young Couples Don't Want Kids

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

More Indians are consciously choosing to remain child-free. From personal freedom and finances to climate anxiety and mental wellbeing, young couples and singles tell us why parenthood isn't part of their life plan.

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Centre is committed to curbing unnatural demographic growth caused by abnormal factors, such as infiltration, with a ruthless approach and a quadrangular security grid has been created for the purpose, transforming India's approach from reactive to proactive.

FIFA World Cup: Bastian Schweinsteiger rejects racism claims

FIFA World Cup: Bastian Schweinsteiger rejects racism claims

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

World Cup winner and TV pundit Bastian Schweinsteiger on Friday rejected claims his comments on African football were racist, saying he was merely delivering an analysis of a playing style.

'When You Empower A Woman, You Empower A Family'

'When You Empower A Woman, You Empower A Family'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'You empower a man, you are not necessarily empowering a family, you are just empowering him.'

TMC leader Jahangir Khan's wife arrested over police station attack

TMC leader Jahangir Khan's wife arrested over police station attack

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Regina Bibi, wife of TMC leader Jahangir Khan, has been arrested for allegedly masterminding a violent attempt to free him from police custody and leading an attack on the Falta police station earlier this month.

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Items include luxury watches, jewellery, carpets, shawls, silverware and collectible artefacts with bidding prices reaching up to Rs 20 lakh.

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Defending Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner secured a relatively straightforward victory against Nuno Borges in the second round, winning 7-6(4), 7-6(2), 6-4.

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

US and Iran officials have reportedly agreed to de-escalate tensions and ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with technical talks scheduled to continue. This development follows months of conflict, rising gas prices, and strained diplomatic relations, marked by recent retaliatory strikes and threats from both sides. Further discussions on Iran's nuclear program are set to take place in Qatar, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent volatility.

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Alexis MacAllister has puts Argentina ahead in the10th minute.

Infinix Launches Pininfarina-Designed Note 60 Pro With 6,500 mAh Battery

Infinix Launches Pininfarina-Designed Note 60 Pro With 6,500 mAh Battery

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Luxury design by Pininfarina meets everyday performance in the latest Infinix Note 60 series smartphone.

Indonesian fighter jets escort Modi's plane in grand welcome

Indonesian fighter jets escort Modi's plane in grand welcome

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival in Jakarta on Monday, with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting the PM's aircraft upon entering Indonesian airspace, marking a ceremonial welcome.

CM Vijay runs anti-drug marathon with public for full 6 km

CM Vijay runs anti-drug marathon with public for full 6 km

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay actively participated in a 6 km anti-drug marathon at Chennai's Marina Beach, running alongside thousands of participants. This marks a historic first for a sitting CM in the state to complete such an event for a social cause, drawing praise from political figures and reinforcing the government's commitment to a drug-free Tamil Nadu.

Paolini ends Eala's fairytale run to reach Wimbledon quarters

Paolini ends Eala's fairytale run to reach Wimbledon quarters

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Jasmine Paolini defeated Alexandra Eala in a three-set thriller at Wimbledon, ending Eala's impressive run to reach the quarterfinals. The match, witnessed by Roger Federer, saw Paolini's experience prevail after Eala had previously upset World No. 3 Iga Swiatek.

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has set a new FIFA World Cup record for most goals scored from outside the penalty area, surpassing Brazil's Rivelino. This achievement, alongside his 7th consecutive World Cup goal, prompted a humorous reaction from Norway's Erling Haaland regarding the Golden Boot race.

DMK politicised Karur stampede, says CM Vijay; announces victims' memorial

DMK politicised Karur stampede, says CM Vijay; announces victims' memorial

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has criticised the DMK for allegedly trying to gain 'political mileage' from the 2025 Karur stampede that killed 41 people, and also faulted the police for failing to alert him about the swelling crowd or cancelling the event.

Indian Golfer Diksha Dagar In Strong Contention At Dutch Ladies Open

Indian Golfer Diksha Dagar In Strong Contention At Dutch Ladies Open

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Indian golfer Diksha Dagar is positioned at Tied-5th after two rounds of the Dutch Ladies Open, carding a 2-under 70 to be 5-under overall. Fellow Indian Avani Prashanth is T-15, while Pranavi Urs moved up to T-25. Charlotte Heath leads the tournament at 8-under par.

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has achieved a new World Cup milestone, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive matches.

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England defeated Mexico 3-2 in a hard-fought World Cup match to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Despite playing with ten men after Jarell Quansah's red card, goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane ensured England's victory.