News for 'Media and Sport'

SEE: Inside Spain's Wild Dressing Room Celebration

SEE: Inside Spain's Wild Dressing Room Celebration

Rediff.com6 days ago

Spain's national football team celebrated wildly in their dressing room after defeating France 2-0 to secure a spot in the World Cup final. The team's official social media shared a video of the joyous moments, highlighting their unity and confidence as they aim for another World Cup title.

BBL creates history, India to host 1st-ever match outside Australia

BBL creates history, India to host 1st-ever match outside Australia

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Melbourne Cricket Ground, announcing India's aspiration to host the 2036 Olympics and welcoming Chennai's role in the Big Bash League. He emphasised cricket as a strong bond between India and Australia, and both PMs unveiled a Roadmap on Sport Cooperation to deepen bilateral ties beyond cricket.

Paraguay Declares National Holiday After Shock World Cup Win Over Germany

Paraguay Declares National Holiday After Shock World Cup Win Over Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Paraguay's President Santiago Pena declared a national holiday to celebrate the country's stunning 4-3 penalty shootout victory over four-time world champions Germany in the World Cup round of 16.

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Keegan's family and Newcastle announced in January that the two-time European Footballer of the Year was undergoing cancer treatment, without disclosing details of his illness.

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from various organisations to conceptualise, develop, and manage a new professional badminton league in India. The initiative aims to create a sustainable league structure focused on commercialisation, fan engagement, and long-term growth of the sport. Interested parties must demonstrate strong financial capability and experience in managing sports leagues, with proposals due by June 30.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo set to retire from international football in September?

Is Cristiano Ronaldo set to retire from international football in September?

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly set to retire from international football in September, with speculation suggesting his final match will be Portugal's UEFA Nations League fixture against Wales.

Home World Championships A Landmark For Indian Badminton: P V Sindhu

Home World Championships A Landmark For Indian Badminton: P V Sindhu

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu has hailed India's upcoming hosting of the BWF World Championships as a "landmark moment" for the sport in the country.

Indian Fencers Aim For Glory At Senior World Championships In Hong Kong

Indian Fencers Aim For Glory At Senior World Championships In Hong Kong

Rediff.com5 hours ago

A 24-member Indian fencing contingent, comprising 12 men and 12 women athletes, is set to compete in the Senior World Fencing Championships in Hong Kong. The team will participate across Epee, Foil, and Sabre disciplines in both individual and team formats, aiming to make a mark on the global stage.

Nation Mourns Loss Of Shooting Icon Jaspal Rana

Nation Mourns Loss Of Shooting Icon Jaspal Rana

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the 'terahvin' rituals of legendary shooter Jaspal Rana in Dehradun. Dignitaries paid their respects to the Padma Shri recipient, who passed away on June 11 due to cardiac complications. Rana, a celebrated pistol shooter and coach, was instrumental in guiding Manu Bhaker to Olympic success.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's final training session cancelled due to thunderstorms

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's final training session cancelled due to thunderstorms

Rediff.com3 days ago

Spain's final training session before Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina has been cancelled due to thunderstorms, organisers FIFA said on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup: What Ronaldo Did After Portugal's Win...

FIFA World Cup: What Ronaldo Did After Portugal's Win...

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo led an emotional tribute to his late team-mate Diogo Jota after Portugal's World Cup victory. over Croatia, marking the first anniversary of Jota's death. Ronaldo, visibly moved, wore Jota's jersey and pointed to the sky, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans and teammates.

India's Top Fencer Bhavani Devi Seeks Review Of Suspension

India's Top Fencer Bhavani Devi Seeks Review Of Suspension

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

India's top fencer Bhavani Devi has issued an unconditional apology and appealed for the reconsideration of her two-month suspension, which was imposed after she received a Black Card at the Asian Fencing Championships. The Fencing Association of India supports her appeal, highlighting her clean disciplinary record and the upcoming World Championships.

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.com19 hours ago

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.

Why Bhavani Devi Is Appealing Her Two-Month Fencing Ban

Why Bhavani Devi Is Appealing Her Two-Month Fencing Ban

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

India's top fencer, Bhavani Devi, has issued an unconditional apology and appealed the two-month suspension she received after being shown a Black Card at the Asian Fencing Championships. The Fencing Association of India is supporting her appeal to the FIE, citing her clean disciplinary record and the upcoming World Championships.

Gakpo's Tears: A World Cup Story Beyond Football

Gakpo's Tears: A World Cup Story Beyond Football

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Dutch footballer Cody Gakpo scored a goal at the World Cup against Morocco, immediately breaking down in tears due to the recent loss of his unborn baby boy. His emotional reaction, understood by teammates and visible to his parents in the stands, highlighted the profound personal grief he carried while competing on the global stage, overshadowing the team's eventual defeat.

'This is bigger than politics': Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker on students' plight

'This is bigger than politics': Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker on students' plight

Rediff.com3 days ago

Double Olympic medallist shooter Manu Bhaker has voiced her concern over student protests against alleged exam paper leaks, advocating for every child's fundamental right to education, safety, and a fair chance at life. She emphasised that the issue transcends politics and demands greater accountability to protect the nation's future.

Top Seeds Chuah And Othman Triumph At HCL Squash Challenger

Top Seeds Chuah And Othman Triumph At HCL Squash Challenger

Rediff.com6 days ago

Joachim Chuah of Malaysia and Rouqaia Othman of Egypt, both top seeds, have won the men's and women's titles respectively at the HCL Squash PSA Challenger Tour-Chennai, held at the Indian Squash Academy.

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

South Korea's World Cup group-stage exit has sparked a nationwide football crisis, with coach Hong Myung-bo resigning, President Lee Jae Myung ordering an investigation, and growing calls for sweeping reforms within the Korea Football Association.

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order protecting India cricketer Abhishek Sharma's personality rights, restraining third parties from misusing his name, image, and AI-generated content for commercial or personal gain. The court directed online platforms to remove infringing material, citing the spread of false and obscene content that damages his reputation and commercial value.

Light aircraft crashes into Beijing's tallest skyscraper

Light aircraft crashes into Beijing's tallest skyscraper

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A light sport aircraft crashed into Beijing's Citic Tower, the city's tallest skyscraper, prompting immediate evacuations. The incident occurred despite stringent airspace regulations in the Chinese capital, with details on casualties and the aircraft's origin still unclear.

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Rediff.com7 days ago

A former FIFA referee has questioned the new VAR protocol after fresh controversy involving Argentina, warning that fan confidence in World Cup officiating has been "completely eroded."

Dan Burn: From Rejection to World Cup Hero at 34

Dan Burn: From Rejection to World Cup Hero at 34

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

England defender Dan Burn, 34, has emerged as an unlikely hero at the World Cup, making crucial clearances and blocks in high-pressure matches against Mexico and Norway, defying a career path that saw him released by Newcastle as a boy and playing in lower divisions.

Why protecting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's childhood is as important as his cricket

Why protecting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's childhood is as important as his cricket

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

As India awaits Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's senior debut, experts urge cricket to remember the 15-year-old is still a child, highlighting the challenges of balancing extraordinary talent, growing fame and emotional well-being.

India's Grand Plan To Bring Formula One Back

India's Grand Plan To Bring Formula One Back

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Indian Sports Ministry, led by Minister Manuskh Mandaviya, is establishing a dedicated Task Force to explore the revival of Formula One racing in India. This initiative follows a meeting with key stakeholders, aiming to assess the challenges and benefits of hosting major motorsport events, with a target of bringing F1 back by 2028. The Task Force will recommend a comprehensive policy framework to support motorsports growth, leveraging India's significant F1 fanbase.

India's Doping Crisis: Why The Nation Tops Global Offenders List

India's Doping Crisis: Why The Nation Tops Global Offenders List

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

India continues to lead the Athletics Integrity Unit's (AIU) global list of dope offenders with 162 names, highlighting a significant problem in the country's sports. The nation has been re-categorised to 'Category A' by the AIU, indicating an "extremely high" doping risk and requiring more stringent anti-doping measures.

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Rediff.com2 days ago

Lionel Messi is aiming for the Golden Boot and a record third Golden Ball at the World Cup final against Spain.

FIFA World Cup Final Concern: Can Yamal Be Ready in Time?

FIFA World Cup Final Concern: Can Yamal Be Ready in Time?

Rediff.com4 days ago

Spain's Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately from the main squad in New Jersey as a precautionary measure ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina, with both players expected to be available.

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Global players' union FIFPRO has highlighted a "growing pattern of abuse," including racist and discriminatory attacks, against players at the World Cup, both online and in person. The union is demanding urgent collective action from football stakeholders, law enforcement, and social media platforms to protect players and ensure meaningful consequences for perpetrators.

SEE: Belgium get Royal backing before Spain FIFA World Cup blockbuster

SEE: Belgium get Royal backing before Spain FIFA World Cup blockbuster

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

King Philippe of the Belgians visited the national football team to offer his support and encouragement ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final match against Spain. He shared a meal, received a signed jersey, and praised their performance, expressing confidence in their victory. Both teams have had strong runs to the quarter-finals, with Belgium overcoming several challenges and Spain maintaining an unbeaten record.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

Rediff.com3 days ago

In Peru, there is a wave of new baby Haalands. In Argentina, Lionel has raced up the rankings, and in Mexico a girl was reportedly named after three soccer players. Parents in Latin America are already christening a new generation of babies after the stars of the World Cup.

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian football star, has announced his retirement from international football following Algeria's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 by Switzerland. Mahrez confirmed his decision after Algeria's 2-0 defeat, concluding a distinguished career with 119 appearances, 40 goals, and 45 assists, including a pivotal role in Algeria's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations victory.

Unexplained Light Aircraft Crash Rocks Beijing's Citic Tower

Unexplained Light Aircraft Crash Rocks Beijing's Citic Tower

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A light sport aircraft crashed into Beijing's Citic Tower, the city's tallest skyscraper, causing an immediate evacuation and scattering debris. The incident, which occurred in the prominent business district, has raised concerns, with authorities yet to comment and the origin and circumstances of the crash remaining unknown. The aircraft was identified as a Sunward SA60L Aurora, and the crash highlights recent stringent regulations on recreational flying in Beijing's airspace.

CM Yadav Hails India Women's Historic Test Win Over England

CM Yadav Hails India Women's Historic Test Win Over England

Rediff.com7 days ago

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav congratulated the Indian women's cricket team for their historic 270-run victory over England in the first-ever women's Test match at Lord's. He highlighted the significant contribution of Madhya Pradesh's Kranti Gaud, who took seven wickets in the match, expressing national pride in the team's stellar performance.

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Norway forward Erling Haaland has openly challenged the media to 'put every single pressure on the English lads' ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against England, following Norway's stunning upset victory over Brazil.

Manchester United sign Brazil midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea

Manchester United sign Brazil midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Manchester United have officially signed Brazil midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea on a deal until June 2031, with an initial fee of 48 million pounds.

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

France is preparing for a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Morocco, a rematch of the 2022 semi-final. Les Bleus, strong favourites with a perfect record and a dangerous attacking unit led by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, are anticipating a tactical battle. Morocco, unbeaten in their last 10 matches, aims to make history for African football and secure their first-ever win against France.

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order protecting India cricketer Abhishek Sharma's personality rights, restraining third parties from misusing his name, image, and AI-generated content for commercial or personal gain. The court directed online platforms to remove infringing material, citing the spread of false and obscene content that damages his reputation and commercial value.

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Rediff.com6 days ago

Spain, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, defeated France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, securing their place in the final. Yamal, who played a crucial role in the victory, has already expressed his team's readiness for the title clash in New York. This marks Spain's first World Cup final appearance since their 2010 triumph.

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The United States' World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday's last-16 clash after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.

Nationwide Raids Target Euro 2024 Ticket And Hospitality Violations

Nationwide Raids Target Euro 2024 Ticket And Hospitality Violations

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

German investigators have launched nationwide searches, including at the DFB soccer association offices, as part of a probe into suspected ticket and hospitality violations related to the 2024 European Championship. The investigation targets illegal allocation of thousands of tickets and hotel invitations to preferred guests, with one municipal employee suspected of receiving benefits worth 2,400.