News for 'Al Khalifa'

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid is facing significant challenges as several national football federations, including Serbia, Sweden, and Wales, have withdrawn their support.

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa has strongly criticised FIFA's plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, calling the lack of consultation "totally unacceptable". He stated that FIFA's unilateral actions undermine continental football and urged member federations to await further discussions before approving the $20 billion proposal.

Explained: How No-Confidence Vote Could Oust FIFA President Infantino?

Explained: How No-Confidence Vote Could Oust FIFA President Infantino?

Rediff.com4 days ago

This article details the process and requirements for a vote of no confidence against the FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, following challenges to his leadership.

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

UEFA's member associations have unanimously voted to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA competitions in protest against FIFA's plan to sell stakes to external investors in a subsidiary managing its tournaments.

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is holding a crisis meeting with top officials in Morocco to address the fallout from his failed attempt to sell commercial rights to the World Cup, a move that has led to widespread criticism and calls for his removal.

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

UEFA and CONCACAF say they have lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the governing body withdrew its controversial World Cup rights plan.

Modi condemns Iran attacks on Bahrain, Saudi; calls for restoring peace

Modi condemns Iran attacks on Bahrain, Saudi; calls for restoring peace

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the King of Bahrain and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, condemning recent attacks on both countries and emphasising the importance of regional peace and stability.

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Six Arab football federations, including 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco and Qatar, have publicly declared their "full support" and "confidence" in FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes as Infantino faces significant backlash and withdrawals of support from European and Oceania federations over his failed $20 billion private investment plan for the World Cup, highlighting a growing schism within global football governance.

India Urges Diplomacy as West Asia Situation Worsens

India Urges Diplomacy as West Asia Situation Worsens

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in West Asia, emphasising the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes. India is closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of its citizens in the region.

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, attempting to balance its 'forever honeymoon' with the Israel-UAE-Bahrain axis against its historical ties with Iran, as evidenced by recent high-level visits and evolving geopolitical realignments in the Middle East, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Modi, Macron Discuss West Asia Situation, Stress Diplomacy

Modi, Macron Discuss West Asia Situation, Stress Diplomacy

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the escalating situation in West Asia, emphasising the need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability in the region.

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin is actively working to de-escalate the escalating crisis in the Gulf, engaging with regional leaders following Iran's retaliatory strikes on US facilities after joint US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

Indian Man Hurt by Shrapnel After UAE Intercepts Drone

Indian Man Hurt by Shrapnel After UAE Intercepts Drone

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

An Indian national sustained injuries from shrapnel after a drone was intercepted by the UAE's air defence system. This incident follows similar events involving injuries and fatalities to Indian nationals in the region due to intercepted missiles and drones.

Iran, UAE FMs spar at BRICS meet in Delhi, Lavrov intervenes to cool tempers

Iran, UAE FMs spar at BRICS meet in Delhi, Lavrov intervenes to cool tempers

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Sharp differences between Iran and the UAE over the West Asia conflict were on full display during the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi, signalling the challenges the bloc faces in reaching a consensus position on the crisis.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

India has expressed serious concerns about the West Asia crisis and its potential impact on energy supplies and maritime stability, urging BRICS nations to find practical solutions to geopolitical challenges and unilateral sanctions.

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

With the Iran war escalating sharply and crisis deepening in the global energy market, India on Monday unveiled a coordinated plan to support exporters and shippers caught in the fallout.

Middle East on edge as Iran targets US military bases

Middle East on edge as Iran targets US military bases

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Residents across the Gulf region, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, experienced fear and disruption following attacks, leading to flight suspensions and heightened security measures.

'A lot of money will come': Trump says close to deal with India

'A lot of money will come': Trump says close to deal with India

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time) hinted at reaching a new trade deal with India soon.

Falling In Love With Dubai

Falling In Love With Dubai

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

Dubai spoils you, discovers Rishika Shah, and you don't even realise it until you leave.

CONCACAF chief opposes 64-team World Cup 2030 proposal

CONCACAF chief opposes 64-team World Cup 2030 proposal

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

A 64-team World Cup in 2030 should not be considered, CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani has said, joining some other confederations in opposing a plan presented by CONMEBOL.

Valishetty caps dream run with first BWF Super 100 crown

Valishetty caps dream run with first BWF Super 100 crown

Rediff.com5 Oct 2025

Young Indian shuttler Shriyanshi Valishetty clinched her maiden BWF Super 100 title in the women's singles category at the $120,000 Al Ain Masters, defeating compatriot Tasnim Mir in a pulsating three-game final in Al Ain, the UAE, on Sunday.

U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers: 10-man India lose to Qatar

U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers: 10-man India lose to Qatar

Rediff.com7 Sep 2025

India went down fighting 1-2 to Qatar in their second Group H encounter of the AFC Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.

UAE Prez Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed dies, India declares state mourning

UAE Prez Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed dies, India declares state mourning

Rediff.com13 May 2022

Since becoming the president of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa has presided over a major restructuring of both the Federal Government and the government of Abu Dhabi.

When India and Pakistan took a common stand!

When India and Pakistan took a common stand!

Rediff.com30 Oct 2018

Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka are the other SAFF nations to severe ties with South West Asian Football Federation on the eve of the Asian Football Confederation Congress in Kuala Lumpur.

In Bahrain, Rajnath paints a grim portrait of Pakistan

In Bahrain, Rajnath paints a grim portrait of Pakistan

Rediff.com24 Oct 2016

India on Monday told Bahrain that terrorism emanating from Pakistan remains its most important concern and support from across the border has incited the current unrest in Jammu and Kashmir.

Check out who is bookmaker's favourite to head FIFA

Check out who is bookmaker's favourite to head FIFA

Rediff.com21 Dec 2015

Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al Khalifa from Bahrain was made the favourite to become FIFA's new president in February's election by bookmaker William Hill on Monday following the eight-year ban on UEFA president Michel Platini.

Now, Bahrain agrees to normalise relations with Israel

Now, Bahrain agrees to normalise relations with Israel

Rediff.com11 Sep 2020

For decades, most Arab states have boycotted Israel, insisting they would only establish ties after the Palestinian dispute was settled.

Will US Host India-Pakistan Talks In Washington?

Will US Host India-Pakistan Talks In Washington?

Rediff.com15 May 2025

Acutely conscious that he's left with less than four years to create his legacy, Trump is undoubtedly a man in a hurry, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Will AIFF be able to establish fruitful relations with new FIFA boss Infantino?

Will AIFF be able to establish fruitful relations with new FIFA boss Infantino?

Rediff.com27 Feb 2016

All India Football Federation (AIFF) chief Praful Patel is hopeful of establishing fruitful relations with new FIFA president Gianni Infantino and work towards the development of the game in the country.

Burj Khalifa glows with tri-colour for India's R-Day

Burj Khalifa glows with tri-colour for India's R-Day

Rediff.com25 Jan 2017

The LED shows were held thrice and will be repeated on Thursday along with complimenting Dubai Fountain shows.

Jiri Lehecka shocks Carlos Alcaraz in Doha

Jiri Lehecka shocks Carlos Alcaraz in Doha

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Lehecka struck eight aces and converted four of eight break chances to secure the first Top 3 win of his career.

Social media abuzz with support and praise for Morocco

Social media abuzz with support and praise for Morocco

Rediff.com11 Dec 2022

Retired Ivorian player and Chelsea legend Didier Drogba: "They did it!!!! Well done Morocco for this feat. Long live Africa."

Qatar Open: Ostapenko dumps Swiatek; sets up Anisimova final

Qatar Open: Ostapenko dumps Swiatek; sets up Anisimova final

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

Three-times defending champion Iga Swiatek was bundled out of the Qatar Open by Latvian Jelena Ostapenko, who beat the Polish second seed 6-3, 6-1 in the semi-finals on Friday to set up a final showdown with American Amanda Anisimova.

Spitting was a normal reaction: Saudi striker Al Shamrani

Spitting was a normal reaction: Saudi striker Al Shamrani

Rediff.com29 Nov 2014

Al Hilal striker Nasser Al Shamrani said it was a normal reaction to spit at Western Sydney Wanderers defender Matthew Spiranovic at the end of the AFC Champions League final earlier this month after claiming to be verbally abused by the Australian.

Anisimova beats Ostapenko in Qatar Open final

Anisimova beats Ostapenko in Qatar Open final

Rediff.com16 Feb 2025

Amanda Anisimova of the United States won the Qatar Open for her third career title and first since 2022.

Sheikh Salman wins AFC presidential election

Sheikh Salman wins AFC presidential election

Rediff.com2 May 2013

Sheikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa will run Asian football for the next two years after the Bahraini won a three-way election for the presidency of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on Thursday.

Alcaraz drops set to Italian qualifier Nardi in Doha

Alcaraz drops set to Italian qualifier Nardi in Doha

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

Top seed Carlos Alcaraz withstood a charge from qualifier Luca Nardi for a 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 victory in the second round of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha on Wednesday.

Djokovic stunned by Berrettini in Qatar Open opener

Djokovic stunned by Berrettini in Qatar Open opener

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

Novak Djokovic was stunned 7-6(4), 6-2 by Matteo Berrettini in the Qatar Open first round on Tuesday as the Italian enjoyed his first win over the former world number one.