News for 'Media and Sport'

Russian Athletes Closer To Full Return In International Sports

Russian Athletes Closer To Full Return In International Sports

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, easing restrictions on Russian athletes. This move, welcomed by the Kremlin, allows Olympic sports bodies to consider reintegrating Russian athletes as neutrals, though some sports like track and field are not following suit.

MS Dhoni Turns 45, Social Media Goes Wild

MS Dhoni Turns 45, Social Media Goes Wild

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Legendary Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 45th birthday, prompting an outpouring of wishes and tributes from fans worldwide. Known as 'Captain Cool', Dhoni's remarkable career and leadership continue to inspire, even after his retirement from international cricket.

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.

New Book Celebrates Indian Sporting Heroes' Resilience

New Book Celebrates Indian Sporting Heroes' Resilience

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A new book, "Heroes: The Changemakers of Indian Sports" by journalist-author Thirumoy Banerjee, chronicles the inspiring journeys of 15 Indian athletes, including Manu Bhaker, C A Bhavani Devi, Nikhat Zareen, Aman Kumar Kadyan, and Sumit Antil. It highlights their determination, resilience, and triumphs over setbacks, offering insights into their paths to success and celebrating their unwavering spirit.

2030 CWG in Ahmedabad to host 17 sports at massive cost savings

2030 CWG in Ahmedabad to host 17 sports at massive cost savings

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Seventeen sports will feature at the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, which is set to be staged at around 60 per cent lower cost than previous editions as part of the Commonwealth Sport's revamped hosting model.

Sports Minister Backs 11-Year-Old Indian F1 Hopeful

Sports Minister Backs 11-Year-Old Indian F1 Hopeful

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Eleven-year-old Indian racer Atiqa Mir, fresh from her success in Greece, met Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who pledged full support for her journey to Formula 1. Atiqa, the first Indian supported by F1 Academy, recently swept Round 2.2 of the Champions of the Future Academy championship.

Top Tennis Players End Wimbledon Media Boycott After Talks

Top Tennis Players End Wimbledon Media Boycott After Talks

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Top tennis players have agreed to resume media duties at Wimbledon after constructive talks with organisers, despite core issues regarding prize money and player welfare remaining unresolved. Players had initially cut short pre-tournament media duties to protest for a larger share of Grand Slam revenue and greater say in decision-making.

Sports World Mourns Demise Of Randhir Singh

Sports World Mourns Demise Of Randhir Singh

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Veteran sports administrator and India's first shooting gold-medallist in Asian Games, Randhir Singh, has died at the age of 79. Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed their condolences.

Randhir Singh, Veteran Sports Administrator, Cremated In Haridwar

Randhir Singh, Veteran Sports Administrator, Cremated In Haridwar

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Veteran sports administrator and India's first Asian Games shooting gold medallist Randhir Singh was cremated in Haridwar. Singh died at his New Delhi residence after battling age-related ailments. He was 79.

Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences: Zee CEO

Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences: Zee CEO

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

"Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences": Zee CEO Punit Goenka after securing FIFA broadcasting rights till 2034

FIFA World Cup 2026: Capdevila seeks Trump's help after Iran-linked ESTA rejection

FIFA World Cup 2026: Capdevila seeks Trump's help after Iran-linked ESTA rejection

Rediff.com2 days ago

Former Spain defender Joan Capdevila has appealed to President Donald Trump for help after being denied permission to enter the United States for Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and defending champions Argentina.

How Sports Can Positively Impact Young People

How Sports Can Positively Impact Young People

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlights the transformative role of sports in shaping young minds and fostering community spirit at a documentary screening.

SKASports To Develop Regional Sports Ecosystem With Singapore Club

SKASports To Develop Regional Sports Ecosystem With Singapore Club

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Chennai-based SKASports Investments Private Ltd has signed an agreement with a Singapore club to develop a regional sports ecosystem that would tap the large pool of footballers and coaches from India.

Wimbledon 2026: Sachin Tendulkar returns to Centre Court as special guest

Wimbledon 2026: Sachin Tendulkar returns to Centre Court as special guest

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was among the biggest attractions in the Royal Box at Wimbledon on Friday as he watched Alexander Zverev beat Britain's Arthur Fery to reach his maiden men's singles final at the All England Club.

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Rediff.com20 May 2026

An analysis of the disparities in India's sporting culture, highlighting the challenges faced by non-cricket athletes and the systemic changes needed for India to become a true sporting superpower.

These FIFA World Cup Conchas Are Taking Over Social Media

These FIFA World Cup Conchas Are Taking Over Social Media

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

With customers queued up and spilling onto the sidewalk at Cookieteria by Lovely, eager to grab fresh World Cup-themed conchas, baker Erika Lopez is worried about letting some down.

UK bans social media for kids under 16, WhatsApp not included

UK bans social media for kids under 16, WhatsApp not included

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a ban on social media access for all children under the age of 16, citing their 'happiness and safety'. The ban, which will not include messaging apps like WhatsApp, aims to protect children from harmful content, bullying, and the addictive nature of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Legislative powers are in place for the law to come into force by Spring next year.

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Rediff.com1 days ago

Mizoram has declared a full holiday for educational institutions and a half-day for government offices to allow residents to watch the FIFA World Cup final. Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the state's passion for football and the importance of the sport to its youth.

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Rediff.com2 days ago

Argentina, one of football's most successful teams, is also one of its most polarising, inspiring both devotion and irritation due to its history, iconic players like Maradona and Messi, and a national identity often perceived as arrogant by rivals.

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The Indian men's football team will embark on its first-ever tour of New Zealand in November for two international friendlies. This historic visit, part of '100 Years of Unity Through Sport' initiatives, marks India's return to an Oceania Football Confederation nation after nearly two decades and offers a valuable challenge against a FIFA World Cup-experienced side.

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Rediff.com3 days ago

Businesses across sectors are positioning themselves to capitalise on the expected surge in demand.

CM Shivakumar Appeals For Calm During FIFA World Cup Final Screening

CM Shivakumar Appeals For Calm During FIFA World Cup Final Screening

Rediff.com1 days ago

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has urged football fans to maintain peace during the FIFA World Cup final and announced special permissions for hotels and restaurants to screen the match live until 3:30 AM. He is also set to join a public screening event in Koramangala, organised by the KSFA and DYES, to watch the final between Argentina and Spain with other enthusiasts.

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com5 days ago

Ministers and political leaders in Kerala are openly expressing their excitement and support for their favourite teams, particularly Argentina, ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

FIFA World Cup: Harry Kane Breaks Silence on Tuchel-Bellingham Rift

FIFA World Cup: Harry Kane Breaks Silence on Tuchel-Bellingham Rift

Rediff.com6 days ago

England captain Harry Kane has dismissed suggestions of a rift between manager Thomas Tuchel and midfielder Jude Bellingham, stating that media scrutiny had exaggerated a brief post-match exchange following their World Cup quarter-final victory over Norway.

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Rudi Garcia's comments about Senegal's tactical structure, along with other pundit remarks, have reignited scrutiny over racially coded language in World Cup commentary, drawing criticism from scholars and anti-racism advocates who argue such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Black players and African teams.

Olympic stars Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain to lead India at Commonwealth Games

Olympic stars Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain to lead India at Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com2 days ago

Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain have been named India's flag and baton bearers for the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Both athletes are celebrated for their achievements in weightlifting and boxing, respectively, and are considered strong medal contenders for India at the upcoming Games.

Indian Athletes To Wear Sustainable Jute-Viscose Apparel At Commonwealth Games 2026

Indian Athletes To Wear Sustainable Jute-Viscose Apparel At Commonwealth Games 2026

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The National Jute Board has developed a jute-viscose blended apparel for Indian athletes participating in the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, marking the first time jute-based attire will be featured at an international multi-sport event, promoting sustainable textiles and India's jute industry.

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Rediff.com7 days ago

Guided by Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal, the duo have established themselves among the world's elite through a series of impressive performances on the WTT circuit.

What's Shubman Gill Doing With Roger Federer?

What's Shubman Gill Doing With Roger Federer?

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

India cricket captain Shubman Gill attended the Wimbledon Championships, where he met tennis legend Roger Federer. Gill also watched matches from the Royal Box alongside Sachin Tendulkar, marking his entry into an exclusive group of Indian captains to receive this honour.

IPL 2026: Arshdeep keeps cool despite social media backlash

IPL 2026: Arshdeep keeps cool despite social media backlash

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh has faced social media scrutiny after a video involving remarks about Tilak Varma went viral. Despite the online chatter, PBKS Head of Sports Science Andrew Leipus says Arshdeep's mindset and behaviour have remained steady, and he continues to be a positive presence within the team.

Sports Ministry Re-evaluates National Sports Awards to Ensure Deserving Athletes Are Honoured

Sports Ministry Re-evaluates National Sports Awards to Ensure Deserving Athletes Are Honoured

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The National Sports Awards have been delayed due to a re-evaluation process by the Sports Ministry to ensure only deserving athletes are honoured. The ministry aims to establish clearer criteria to avoid controversies and ensure deserving athletes are recognised without unnecessary hurdles.

'Focus On Things That Are In My Control': How Shubman Gill Handles Pressure

'Focus On Things That Are In My Control': How Shubman Gill Handles Pressure

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill shared his approach to handling pressure, focusing on controllable factors and avoiding external influences.

Indian Volleyball Team's Historic Bronze Medal Achievement

Indian Volleyball Team's Historic Bronze Medal Achievement

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the Indian men's volleyball team for winning the country's first-ever medal at the AVC Men's Volleyball Cup. India secured a bronze medal by defeating Bahrain, marking a historic achievement and reflecting the sport's growth in the nation. This success is expected to inspire young athletes and boost volleyball's development.

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com1 days ago

The 10 takeaways from the FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Neymar's father has penned an emotional message urging his son to reconsider his retirement from international football, which followed Brazil's unexpected exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, announced his decision after their Round of 16 defeat to Norway.

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

Rediff.com7 days ago

Argentina and England are set to clash in a World Cup semi-final, marking their first such encounter, a match deeply rooted in decades of historical and footballing rivalry, including infamous incidents involving Antonio Rattin, Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal, and the Falklands War.

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has rebranded as World Tennis, announcing an ambitious vision to increase global participation by 30% to 140 million players by 2035. The organisation, which governs the sport and runs major competitions, plans to reinvest 85% of its income annually for the next decade to achieve its strategic goals, including powering future stars and elevating national competitions. The name change aims to enhance recognition and foster greater collaboration within the sport.

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on petitions filed by riders Anush Agarwalla and Sudipti Hajela, who challenged their exclusion from India's dressage team for the upcoming Asian Games. The athletes appealed a single judge's earlier decision that upheld the Equestrian Federation of India's selection process. The court heard arguments from all parties, including the EFI, which maintained that the best riders were selected and opposed external interference.

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.