News for 'First World'

Viswanathan Anand First Indian Interim FIDE President

Viswanathan Anand First Indian Interim FIDE President

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Former World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand has been appointed Interim President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after incumbent Arkady Dvorkovich voluntarily stepped aside due to his inclusion in the European Union's sanctions list.

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Friday that the world soccer's governing body has abandoned its controversial plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors, following widespread backlash from major confederations and internal dissent.

5 Young Underdogs Who Could Steal the Show At Badminton Worlds

5 Young Underdogs Who Could Steal the Show At Badminton Worlds

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

As New Delhi prepares to host the BWF World Championships from August 17-23, 2026, five young talents - Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda, Alwi Farhan, Tomoka Miyazaki, and Kalyana Nalbantova - are identified as potential breakout stars capable of challenging the sport's biggest names and redefining their careers.

Navneet Kaur wants hockey team to repeat cricket's feat

Navneet Kaur wants hockey team to repeat cricket's feat

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Veteran striker Navneet Kaur believes the Indian women's hockey team is inspired by the cricket team's ODI World Cup triumph and aims to script a similar title-winning story at the FIH Women's World Cup.

Indian Junior Squash Teams Eye World Championship Glory

Indian Junior Squash Teams Eye World Championship Glory

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Both the Indian men's and women's junior squash teams have successfully advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Junior Squash Team Championship in Ontario. The men's team overcame Kuwait in a hard-fought 2-1 victory, while the women's team secured a dominant 3-0 win against South Africa. The men are set to face England, and the women will compete against USA in their respective quarterfinal matches.

FIH Hockey World Cup: What makes India's attack so dangerous?

FIH Hockey World Cup: What makes India's attack so dangerous?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Indian men's hockey team's forward line, including Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, and Shilanand Lakra, is meticulously preparing for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup. They are focusing on chemistry, consistency, and the evolving role of modern forwards, which now includes being the first line of defence. Senior players like Mandeep are mentoring younger talents, emphasising teamwork, mental fortitude, and converting chances.

'Start getting excited': CSA CEO's 2027 World Cup plea

'Start getting excited': CSA CEO's 2027 World Cup plea

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki expressed excitement as the brand identity and 12 host venues for the 2027 ODI Cricket World Cup were unveiled, marking the tournament's return to Africa after 24 years with a new three-stage format.

'On the right track': Savita's bold India hockey claim

'On the right track': Savita's bold India hockey claim

Rediff.com3 days ago

Veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia highlights a significant shift in the Indian women's hockey team's mindset and dressing room atmosphere, attributing their best World Cup finish in over five decades to a newfound belief and openness among players.

Southampton's Utilita Bowl to host first men's Ashes Test in 2025

Southampton's Utilita Bowl to host first men's Ashes Test in 2025

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Southampton's Utilita Bowl will host a men's Ashes Test for the first time in 2025, as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the concurrent scheduling of the men's and women's Ashes series against Australia, mirroring the successful 2023 format.

'I Am Not A Junior Anymore': World Jr Squash Champion Anahat Singh Targets More Senior Events

'I Am Not A Junior Anymore': World Jr Squash Champion Anahat Singh Targets More Senior Events

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Anahat Singh, the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships, discusses her historic victory and dismisses the notion of Egyptian players having a psychological advantage.

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has strongly condemned the post-match clashes that marred the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, calling the behaviour of Argentina's players 'unacceptable' after his side lifted the trophy with a dramatic extra-time victory.

Ayush's Victory Gives Everyone Confidence: Unnati Hooda

Ayush's Victory Gives Everyone Confidence: Unnati Hooda

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Rising Indian badminton talent Unnati Hooda attributes her rapid progress to her father, Upkar Hooda, who left his job to mentor her full-time.

Messi's missing rival: Argentina captain finally faces England at World Cup

Messi's missing rival: Argentina captain finally faces England at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi will face England for the first time in his career when Argentina meet the Three Lions in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, ending a 20-year wait for one of football's most anticipated match-ups.

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

'Being World No. 2 will give us good confidence when we compete at the Asian Games.'

Comeback Kings! Argentina's Great Escapes In FIFA World Cup 2026

Comeback Kings! Argentina's Great Escapes In FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Argentina battled their way into the semis after edging Cape Verde and Switzerland in extra time and coming from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2.

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe admitted his side failed both tactically and technically in their 2-0 FIFA World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, ending their hopes of a third successive final appearance.

Gukesh vs Sindarov: Geneva Set to Stage Youngest-Ever World Chess Final

Gukesh vs Sindarov: Geneva Set to Stage Youngest-Ever World Chess Final

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The FIDE World Championship Match 2026 will feature reigning champion Gukesh D and challenger Javokhir Sindarov in Geneva, Switzerland. Both players will be 20, making it the youngest World Championship contest in history and signalling a generational shift in chess. The match will consist of 14 classical games, with tie-breaks if needed.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi says World Cup final loss will leave lasting pain

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi says World Cup final loss will leave lasting pain

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi said Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain had left "immense" pain but praised his team for reaching a second successive final and thanked supporters for uniting behind the national side.

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Wimbledon achieved record attendance and social media engagement, along with strong broadcasting figures, despite competing with the soccer World Cup. The tournament saw over half a million fans, significant retail sales, and a notable audience share for the women's singles final in the Czech Republic.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

Tripartite Pact Boosts North East Swimming With New NCoE

Tripartite Pact Boosts North East Swimming With New NCoE

Rediff.com1 days ago

A tripartite agreement between SAI, BAI, and SAA will establish the first National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for swimming in the North Eastern Region, located at the Amingaon Sports Complex in Assam. This initiative aims to provide world-class training and nurture swimming talent across the region.

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed strong belief in Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating they still have significant contributions to make and should feature in upcoming ODI World Cups. He emphasised their skill, experience, and fitness as key factors, dismissing age as a barrier. Abbas also touched upon the importance of traditional batting techniques and offered thoughts on Pakistan cricket.

Anahat Singh's Historic World Junior Squash Title: A Dream Come True

Anahat Singh's Historic World Junior Squash Title: A Dream Come True

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

India's Anahat Singh has become the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championship, defeating Ruqayya Salem of Egypt in the final. The 18-year-old expressed her joy, calling the victory a dream come true, especially as it was her last year on the junior circuit. Her win is hailed as a historic moment for Indian squash.

India Set For Tough Test Against Panama In FIFA Friendly

India Set For Tough Test Against Panama In FIFA Friendly

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's national football team will host Panama in an international friendly on September 26, marking their first encounter. This match is part of a series of fixtures against 2026 World Cup participants, including Brazil and New Zealand, aimed at providing valuable exposure for the Blue Tigers.

Chennai Grand Masters: Pranesh Defeats World Champion Gukesh

Chennai Grand Masters: Pranesh Defeats World Champion Gukesh

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

GM M Pranesh secured a significant victory over world champion D Gukesh, while GM Nihal Sarin defeated Arjun Erigaisi in the penultimate round of the Chennai Grand Masters. These results allowed French GM Alireza Firouzja to take the sole lead in the tournament.

Pegula's perfect start, Krejcikova's painful exit headline US Open opening day

Pegula's perfect start, Krejcikova's painful exit headline US Open opening day

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Jessica Pegula cruised into the US Open second round with a straight-sets win, while 27th seed Barbora Krejcikova became the first seeded casualty despite saving six match points.

Indian Squash Star Abhay Singh Claims 13th PSA Tour Title In Malaysia

Indian Squash Star Abhay Singh Claims 13th PSA Tour Title In Malaysia

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Top Indian squash player Abhay Singh, ranked world no. 24, secured his 13th PSA Tour title by winning the Tuanku Muhriz Trophy in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. He defeated Hong Kong's Henry Leung in a thrilling five-game final, showcasing his dominance throughout the tournament.

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Rodri delivered a midfield masterclass against France, anchoring Spain's 2-0 victory and securing their place in the World Cup final. His performance marked a significant return to his pre-injury form, reminiscent of his dominant displays for Manchester City, as he frustrated France's attacking efforts and dictated play.

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

'India's First Substantive Judicial Engagement With AI'

'India's First Substantive Judicial Engagement With AI'

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The judgment is India's first to examine AI companies' use of copyrighted works for foundation models, setting an analytical framework for Section 52 of the Copyright Act.

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The vaccine has been cleared for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years and can be administered irrespective of whether the taker has had dengue before, eliminating the need for pre-vaccination screening.

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA rejects Norway coach Stale Solbakken's claim of spider-cam interference in Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England.

Diamond League: Jefferson-Wooden beats Olympic champion Alfred to win women's 100m

Diamond League: Jefferson-Wooden beats Olympic champion Alfred to win women's 100m

Rediff.com7 days ago

World champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden defeated Olympic gold medallist Julien Alfred in the women's 100 metres, while Oblique Seville secured victory in the men's sprint at the Silesia Diamond League.

BCB President Tamim Iqbal Confident Of India Series Despite Delays

BCB President Tamim Iqbal Confident Of India Series Despite Delays

Rediff.com1 hour ago

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Tamim Iqbal remains optimistic about a white-ball series against India, despite the originally planned September window being missed. He confirmed that both boards are actively seeking a suitable time, highlighting positive intentions from both sides. Iqbal also reflected on past tensions, including Bangladesh's withdrawal from the 2025 ODI World Cup, acknowledging that negotiations could have been handled better.

Trump hails 'GREAT player' Harry Kane after England's World Cup win

Trump hails 'GREAT player' Harry Kane after England's World Cup win

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

United States President Donald Trump has praised England captain Harry Kane as a 'GREAT player' following his pivotal role in England's 3-2 FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over co-hosts Mexico, where Kane scored his sixth goal of the tournament.

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Spain's Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, Unai Simon won the Golden Glove, and Pau Cubarsi was named the Best Young Player, leaving Lionel Messi without another personal honour despite his impressive World Cup performance.

'Incredible' Mbappe has hunger to make Real Madrid history, says Mourinho

'Incredible' Mbappe has hunger to make Real Madrid history, says Mourinho

Rediff.com2 days ago

Jose Mourinho praised Kylian Mbappe's relentless hunger to make history at Real Madrid after his hat-trick inspired a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabeu.

Hockey India defends new saffron jersey for World Cup teams

Hockey India defends new saffron jersey for World Cup teams

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Hockey India has defended its decision to change the national men's and women's hockey teams' jerseys to saffron for the upcoming FIH World Cup, citing technical feedback and the symbolic value of the colour.

Electrifying! Olectra first co to deploy 4,000 e-buses in India

Electrifying! Olectra first co to deploy 4,000 e-buses in India

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Olectra Greentech Ltd has become the first company in India to deploy 4,000 electric buses on Indian roads, marking a significant milestone in the country's transition to sustainable public transport and reinforcing its leadership in electric mobility.