News for 'Football Association'

AIFF hands ISL commercial rights to clubs in historic agreement

AIFF hands ISL commercial rights to clubs in historic agreement

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

AIFF and ISL clubs have reached a landmark agreement that hands commercial rights to clubs while the federation retains regulatory control, paving the way for a club-led Indian Super League from the 2026-27 season.

The story behind the music playing at FIFA World Cup stadiums

The story behind the music playing at FIFA World Cup stadiums

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

World Cup music isn't random; FIFA's 'Stadium Entertainment Team' curates over 750 songs, mixing global classics with country-specific favourites, with each team having signature, warm-up, and goal-scoring tracks.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

FIFA has transformed its referee preparation for the World Cup, treating officials like elite athletes. This rigorous training includes physical assessments, game-like simulations, and advanced data tracking to ensure referees can perform optimally under challenging conditions like extreme humidity and high altitude, minimising errors due to fatigue.

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Concerns over Canadian wildfire smoke impacting air quality and player health for the World Cup final in New York are easing, with forecasts predicting significant rain and a cold front to clear the haze before Sunday's match, though hot and hazy conditions could still pose risks.

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.

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has announced stringent selection criteria for the upcoming Asian Games, capping the contingent at 600 athletes. The policy prioritises medal prospects, stating that the Games are not for "exposure tours" or securing jobs. This includes a "realistic chance of winning a medal" and being in the top six continental rankings. The ministry will scrutinise recommendations from National Sports Federations, with specific cases like equestrian Anush Agarwalla and table tennis player Manika Batra highlighting the new approach.

Volpato makes late switch from Italy to Australia ahead of FIFA World Cup

Volpato makes late switch from Italy to Australia ahead of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Former Italy under-20 international Cristian Volpato has decided to represent Australia and will join the Socceroos' training camp in Los Angeles ahead of the World Cup, Football Australia said on Friday.

Petkovic Reflects On Algeria's World Cup Exit

Petkovic Reflects On Algeria's World Cup Exit

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Algeria's coach Vladimir Petkovic attributed his team's 2-0 defeat to Switzerland and subsequent World Cup exit to costly defensive errors. He acknowledged the higher level of competition at the tournament and praised his team's overall performance, considering their return to the World Cup after 12 years and reaching the group stage a success despite the elimination.

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran footballers faces cheers and jeers in their come-from-behind 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup final opener in Los Angeles on Monday.

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

With hot weather due and memories fresh of the scorching 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA has for the first time mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 matches of the World Cup starting this week in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The AIFF has approved a September 4 start for the 2026-27 Indian Super League but deferred a final decision on the league's governance structure, with further discussions set to continue between the federation and ISL clubs.

Italian football rocked as referees chief suspends himself amid fraud probe

Italian football rocked as referees chief suspends himself amid fraud probe

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Gianluca Rocchi steps aside amid a Serie A fraud probe, with VAR official Andrea Gervasoni also under investigation, raising fears of another Calciopoli-style crisis.

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) will hold a Special General Body Meeting to amend its constitution in line with the National Sports Governance Act and discuss the new commercial partner for the Indian Super League.

Why US denied Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for World Cup

Why US denied Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The Trump administration said on Tuesday the United States had denied Somali soccer referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for the World Cup because of his links to "suspected members of terror organizations".

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

India face Hong Kong in their final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier, with Ryan Williams set to make his debut. Both teams aim to gain FIFA ranking points and build for the future.

Manchester United's Fernandes is EPL player of the season

Manchester United's Fernandes is EPL player of the season

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes also emerged as the Premier League's best playmaker this season when he created a league-high 132 chances.

How Adidas Is Winning The World Cup Brand War Against Nike

How Adidas Is Winning The World Cup Brand War Against Nike

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Early data from the World Cup indicates that sportswear giant Adidas is currently gaining a significant advantage over rival Nike in brand visibility and sales. Adidas, an official sponsor, is seeing a substantial surge in apparel spending and foot traffic, particularly driven by jersey sales. While Nike's business is also growing, it is being outpaced by Adidas, which appears to have a more resonant product offering. Nike, facing declining market share and intense competition, is relying on the World Cup for a boost, though its footwear presence remains strong.

Goa's Chigurupati Ready For India U-19 Battle In Sri Lanka

Goa's Chigurupati Ready For India U-19 Battle In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Goa's Venkata Chigurupati has earned his maiden India Under-19 call-up for the Sri Lanka tour after a standout season of 49 wickets and 380 runs, as the fast-bowling all-rounder sets his sights on the U-19 World Cup and a future in India's Test team.

The World Cup Is Here, But Where Are the Fans?

The World Cup Is Here, But Where Are the Fans?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

High costs, visa hurdles, and logistics for the World Cup are deterring fans, leading to a disappointing boost for US hotels, airlines, and the travel industry.

Iran women's team drama: Players drop asylum bid

Iran women's team drama: Players drop asylum bid

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Five members of the Iranian women's football team, who initially sought asylum in Australia, have withdrawn their claims and are returning to Iran.

Ref attacked as Pakistan football match turns violent

Ref attacked as Pakistan football match turns violent

Rediff.com11 Dec 2025

The video showed some WAPDA players chasing the match referee into his changing room and he was also reportedly physically abused by them before being rescued by other officials and players.

AIFF Alleges Pressure from Executive Member to Include Churchill Brothers in ISL

AIFF Alleges Pressure from Executive Member to Include Churchill Brothers in ISL

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has accused its executive committee member Valanka Alemao and her family of pressuring the organisation to include Churchill Brothers FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) through unconventional means.

SRK Didn't Like Cricket': Lalit Modi Reveals How Shah Rukh Bought KKR

SRK Didn't Like Cricket': Lalit Modi Reveals How Shah Rukh Bought KKR

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Lalit Modi reveals how a hesitant Shah Rukh Khan was persuaded to buy Kolkata Knight Riders in 2008, helping create one of the IPL's most iconic franchises.

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Canadian singer Nora Fatehi has released her latest international collaboration, "Siir Siir," which is part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 music programme, marking another significant global milestone in her career. The track, featuring Vegedream, blends pop and R&B, celebrating her multicultural journey and expanding her international fan base.

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has officially approved the qualification system for cricket at the LA Olympic 2028, marking the sport's return after 128 years. The event will feature men's and women's T20 competitions with six teams each.

India in race to host 2031 AFC Asian Cup

India in race to host 2031 AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on Wednesday confirmed India's bid to host the Asian Cup in 2031

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End Asian Cup Qualifying Campaign on a High Note

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End Asian Cup Qualifying Campaign on a High Note

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

India will face Hong Kong in their final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying match, with Australian-born winger Ryan Williams set to make his debut. Both teams aim to gain FIFA ranking points and build for future assignments.

Curacao's World Cup qualification sparks India football debate in RS

Curacao's World Cup qualification sparks India football debate in RS

Rediff.com18 Dec 2025

India's footballing future was discussed in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday by Congress member Jose K Mani, as he cited tiny Dutch-Caribbean island Curacao's World Cup qualification to ask Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya about the long-term plan for sport in the country that is on a downward spiral.

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has defended its decision to appoint Amelia Valverde as head coach of the women's national team and addressed the controversy surrounding team kits during the Asian Cup.

IOA, Sports Ministry Name Observers For Vinesh Phogat's Trial

IOA, Sports Ministry Name Observers For Vinesh Phogat's Trial

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Former footballer Aditi Chauhan and ex-hockey captain M M Somaiya will observe Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games trial, representing the IOA and Sports Ministry.

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is facing controversy after Valanka Alemao, head of the women's committee, accused AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey of harassment and intimidation during a recent meeting.

The rise of Kvaratskhelia: From little-known Georgian talent to PSG's elite weapon

The rise of Kvaratskhelia: From little-known Georgian talent to PSG's elite weapon

Rediff.com28 May 2026

As PSG prepare for another showdown, against Arsenal at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, the Georgian has become one of the symbols of Luis Enrique's exhilarating side, adding improvisation and menace to a team already overflowing with attacking talent.

Indian Super League moves to club-led model as September 4 kick-off confirmed

Indian Super League moves to club-led model as September 4 kick-off confirmed

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has agreed "in principle" to the club-led model of running the Indian Super League (ISL) for two years and has conveyed it to the sports minister, a top official said on Tuesday.

IPL Franchises Race Towards $15 Billion Valuations

IPL Franchises Race Towards $15 Billion Valuations

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders, owned by the Shah Rukh Khan family and Mehta Group, emerged as the most valuable franchise.

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Despite the World Cup returning to their country for the first time in four decades, many in Mexico said they feel excluded, priced out of stadiums, forced to pay for expensive TV subscriptions and constrained by strict licensing rules.

Frozen pitches halt football across Germany and UK

Frozen pitches halt football across Germany and UK

Rediff.com9 Jan 2026

Two Bundesliga matches have been scrapped due to large amounts of snow and ice blanketing pitches across Germany, while a third-round FA Cup match on Saturday has also been postponed due to freezing conditions in Britain.

Assam To Host Indian Athletics Series In Nalbari

Assam To Host Indian Athletics Series In Nalbari

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The newly-built stadium at Sariahtali in Nalbari district of Assam will host the seventh leg of Indian Athletics Series on June 6.

Why Magnus Carlsen Remains A Sporting Icon In Norway

Why Magnus Carlsen Remains A Sporting Icon In Norway

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Magnus Carlsen's popularity remains undiminished in Norway, with many believing he is unbeatable on home turf, even as he hints at moving away from classical chess.

EPL football player banned for six games for spitting at opponent

EPL football player banned for six games for spitting at opponent

Rediff.com10 Jan 2025

Norwich City winger Borja Sainz has been suspended for six matches and fined 12,000 pounds ($14,749) for spitting at an opponent.