News for 'Media and Sport'

Dream Sports pivots to fintech, AI, and sports entertainment after gaming ban

Dream Sports pivots to fintech, AI, and sports entertainment after gaming ban

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Following a ban on real-money gaming, Dream Sports, the parent company of Dream11, is strategically expanding its portfolio across 11 companies, including a new venture into wealth management and stockbroking, with a focus on serving a mass user base through AI-first solutions, cofounder Harsh Jain confirmed.

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Tunisia have sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi and replaced him with fellow Frenchman Herve Renard in the wake of the 5-1 defeat by Sweden in their World Cup opener in Monterrey on Sunday, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) said.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.

French Open: Players demand fairer revenue sharing, stronger representation

French Open: Players demand fairer revenue sharing, stronger representation

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A simmering dispute between players and the Grand Slams over revenue sharing intensified at the French Open on Friday, with Novak Djokovic warning the sport risked further fragmentation as leading players pressed for a greater voice in shaping its future.

PT Usha calls for athlete-first policies in Indian sports administration

PT Usha calls for athlete-first policies in Indian sports administration

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

IOA President PT Usha emphasises the importance of athlete-centric policies in Indian sports administration, highlighting the need for prioritising athlete welfare and development.

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have taken to social media to share their preparations for crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage matches. Messi, fresh off a hat-trick, is fine-tuning for Argentina's clash against Austria, while Ronaldo, after a frustrating draw, is refocusing for Portugal's game against Uzbekistan.

BCCI Secretary On 2027 World Cup Roadmap: Not For Public Consumption

BCCI Secretary On 2027 World Cup Roadmap: Not For Public Consumption

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that India's roadmap for the 2027 World Cup, including discussions on senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, is confidential and not for public consumption. He also clarified that the BCCI adheres strictly to the Government of India's policies regarding bilateral tours, such as the potential resumption of ties with Bangladesh, without concern for the political situation in other countries.

FIFA World Cup: Didier Deschamps Honours Mbappe With Special Jersey

FIFA World Cup: Didier Deschamps Honours Mbappe With Special Jersey

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe was honoured for reaching 100 international appearances, receiving a commemorative jersey from coach Didier Deschamps. Deschamps himself was celebrated for becoming the most successful manager in FIFA World Cup history with 17 victories. Despite their dominant performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, both Mbappe and Deschamps cautioned against complacency ahead of their Round of 16 match against Paraguay.

FIFA World Cup: How Messi changed soccer in North America

FIFA World Cup: How Messi changed soccer in North America

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The study, covering audience trends across the three host nations, found that Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami CF in the 2023 Leagues Cup drove a 173% leap in linear viewership compared with the tournament average.

Norway's wild FIFA World Cup party leaves Oslo in chaos

Norway's wild FIFA World Cup party leaves Oslo in chaos

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Thousands of Norwegian fans celebrated their team's first World Cup knockout-round win against Ivory Coast with a massive "Viking row" through Oslo. The jubilant celebrations, however, led to minor damage to city streets and metro trains, prompting transit authorities to take carriages out of service for repairs.

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be football's largest tournament but will unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts, strained alliances, and complex immigration policies, challenging its traditional role as a symbol of global unity.

'A distinguished leader of the Olympic Movement': Tributes Pour In For Randhir Singh

'A distinguished leader of the Olympic Movement': Tributes Pour In For Randhir Singh

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Indian sporting fraternity mourns the death of veteran administrator and former shooter Randhir Singh, with tributes pouring in from prominent figures like Abhinav Bindra and various sports organisations.

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran threatened to halt its matches at the World Cup if unauthorised flags are displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team's presence at the tournament.

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde, making their FIFA World Cup debut, delivered a memorable performance, reaching the Round of 32 and pushing defending champions Argentina to extra time. Despite a 3-2 defeat, their campaign was marked by resilience, drawing against European champions Spain and two-time world champions Uruguay, and highlighted by the exceptional goalkeeping of 40-year-old Vozinha.

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Belgium's dressing room erupted in celebration after their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Senegal, with match-winner Youri Tielemans leading the festivities.

IOC Pays Tribute To Randhir Singh's Legacy

IOC Pays Tribute To Randhir Singh's Legacy

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The International Olympic Committee mourns the death of veteran Indian sports administrator Randhir Singh, recognising his significant contributions to the Olympic Movement in India, Asia, and worldwide.

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Portugal defender Diogo Dalot has defended Cristiano Ronaldo and insisted the squad remains united despite criticism following their World Cup draw with DR Congo, claiming some people are actively hoping Portugal fail.

Australia's Socceroos Dismiss US Hype Ahead Of World Cup Showdown

Australia's Socceroos Dismiss US Hype Ahead Of World Cup Showdown

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Australia's assistant coach Hayden Foxe states that the Socceroos are mature enough to handle media hype and social media comments ahead of their World Cup match against co-hosts the United States. Despite being written off by some US commentators, the team is confident after a strong start to the tournament, having defeated Turkey 2-0. Players are focused on the upcoming game, drawing motivation from past criticisms while remaining grounded.

How a Social Media Post Led Payal Nag to Para Archery Glory

How a Social Media Post Led Payal Nag to Para Archery Glory

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Teenage quadruple amputee para archer Payal Nag wins gold at the World Para Archery Series in Bangkok, overcoming social stigma and defeating her idol Sheetal Devi.

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring two goals. His performance was overshadowed by a viral post-match moment where he appeared to ignore a question about Lionel Messi. Ronaldo also made history by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups and surpassed Eusebio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

Underdog Cape Verde Confident Of Defying Odds Against Messi's Argentina

Underdog Cape Verde Confident Of Defying Odds Against Messi's Argentina

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Cape Verde, despite being a significant underdog, is confident of challenging Argentina and Lionel Messi in their World Cup knockout match.

Iraq striker Hussein questioned for hours on arrival in US for FIFA World Cup

Iraq striker Hussein questioned for hours on arrival in US for FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for nearly seven hours at Chicago's O'Hare Airport before being allowed into the United States, while the team's photographer was denied entry ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

India's Got Latent 2: 'Donald Trump' Steals The Show

India's Got Latent 2: 'Donald Trump' Steals The Show

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Not only is Samay Raina going the Kapil Sharma route by bringing celebrities as special guests on his show -- which also means he has to be careful that his jokes don't land them in trouble as well -- but he also has to promote sponsors blatantly, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

The Real Reason Behind Messi's Tearful World Cup Moment

The Real Reason Behind Messi's Tearful World Cup Moment

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi's family has confirmed that his father, Jorge Messi, 68, is receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed health issue. They stated he is recovering well and responding positively to treatment, while also expressing frustration over media speculation and requesting privacy for the family during this time. The statement follows emotional scenes involving Lionel Messi during a recent World Cup match, which he later clarified were unrelated to football but due to difficult personal days.

Comeback Queen: Why Serena Williams Is Returning To Tennis At 44

Comeback Queen: Why Serena Williams Is Returning To Tennis At 44

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Serena Williams is set to make a comeback to competitive tennis after a nearly four-year absence, receiving a wildcard entry into the Queen's Club Championships doubles draw.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Norway's success at the World Cup has triggered euphoria at home, but the team's trademark "Viking row" celebration is beginning to test the patience of their Scandinavian neighbours, drawing shrugs from Sweden and envy from Denmark.

Anti-Doping Act To Criminalise Substance Trafficking, Distribution

Anti-Doping Act To Criminalise Substance Trafficking, Distribution

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The National Anti Doping Act will be amended to criminalise trafficking and distribution of prohibited substances with a jail term of upto five years, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Thursday.

IOC Pays Tribute To Randhir Singh's Legacy

IOC Pays Tribute To Randhir Singh's Legacy

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The International Olympic Committee mourns the death of veteran Indian sports administrator Randhir Singh, recognising his significant contributions to the Olympic Movement.

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has been ruled out of Friday's World Cup match against Iraq due to a knee injury sustained during a recent loss to Norway. Medical examinations are ongoing to assess the full extent of the ligament issue. Both Senegal and Iraq are entering the Group I game with two losses each.

India's long distance star Gulveer Singh eyes Asian Games glory

India's long distance star Gulveer Singh eyes Asian Games glory

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

India's premier long-distance runner, Gulveer Singh, is confident of improving his bronze medal performance from the 2022 Asian Games in the upcoming edition. Holding national records in multiple events, Singh is preparing for both the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, focusing on strategic training under his US-based coach and utilising advanced sportswear technology.

FIFA World Cup: From hero to outcast: Balogun sent off, US move on

FIFA World Cup: From hero to outcast: Balogun sent off, US move on

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Balogun scored and celebrated in style before a VAR review turned his night around for the worse, as he was sent off for a foul. Even with 10 men, the United States stayed disciplined and beat Bosnia 2-0. Malik Tillman sealed the win with a free-kick goal. The result sends the U.S. into the last 16 against Belgium. Balogun is suspended for that match.

India, New Zealand Join Hands To Enhance Rugby Coaching

India, New Zealand Join Hands To Enhance Rugby Coaching

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Rugby India and New Zealand Rugby will collaborate for a two-day high-performance coaching program at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, marking 100 years of India-New Zealand sporting ties.

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Iran's soccer team arrived in the United States for the first time at this World Cup on Sunday, landing at Los Angeles International Airport and holding a press conference on the same day that a peace deal between the two nations was announced.

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Achraf Hakimi says he is ready to face trial after a French appeals court reportedly rejected his challenge to a rape case referral. The Morocco and PSG defender insists he will finally get the chance to tell his side of the story.

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

In one of the biggest upsets ever seen at the World Cup, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved the efforts of Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade before Jonathan Tah fired over the bar, paving the way for Jose Canale to blast home the decisive spot kick.

Enzo Maresca Steps Into Guardiola's Shoes At Manchester City

Enzo Maresca Steps Into Guardiola's Shoes At Manchester City

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Manchester City has announced Enzo Maresca as their new manager, succeeding Pep Guardiola. Maresca, who previously coached City's youth team and served as assistant coach, returns to the club after guiding Leicester City to the Premier League title. He faces the significant challenge of maintaining City's dominance following Guardiola's highly successful decade-long tenure.

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".

Indian Fencers Show Spirit But Miss Podium At Asian Championships

Indian Fencers Show Spirit But Miss Podium At Asian Championships

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Indian fencing teams, including the women's sabre team led by Olympian CA Bhavani Devi and the men's epee team, delivered spirited performances at the 26th Asian Senior Fencing Championships in New Delhi but were unable to secure medals. South Korea claimed the women's sabre team title, while Kazakhstan won the men's epee team title.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ghana witch doctor ends Kane spell after England's goal-less night

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ghana witch doctor ends Kane spell after England's goal-less night

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A Ghanaian witch doctor says he has "released" England captain Harry Kane from his spell after the striker failed to find the net in Tuesday's goalless draw at the World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US president Donald Trump in recent weeks has renewed threats to make Canada the 51st US state, and said he might not renew the trilateral trade agreement between the US, Canada and Mexico -- the co-hosts of this year's World Cup.