News for 'Republic of Sports'

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.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo runs riot as Portugal thrash Uzbekistan

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo runs riot as Portugal thrash Uzbekistan

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cups and Portugal's all-time leading marksman at the global finals with two goals in Tuesday's emphatic 5-0 Group K win over Uzbekistan in Houston.

He missed his baby's birth for FIFA World Cup

He missed his baby's birth for FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, 35, missed the birth of his daughter to prepare for his fourth World Cup, which he believes might be his last. He is determined to perform well to make up for his absence and faces competition for the starting spot as South Korea prepares for their Group A matches.

Can Ronaldo Spark Portugal's Revival Against Uzbekistan?

Can Ronaldo Spark Portugal's Revival Against Uzbekistan?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Portugal's football team faces Uzbekistan in their next World Cup match, needing a significant improvement in their attacking performance after a disappointing 1-1 draw with DR Congo.

'Stop the Game': Irish footballers, celebrities demand Israel boycott

'Stop the Game': Irish footballers, celebrities demand Israel boycott

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Irish footballers, celebrities and campaigners have urged the FAI to boycott UEFA Nations League matches against Israel, citing the Gaza conflict and alleged breaches of FIFA and UEFA statutes.

'I am back': Record-breaker Ronaldo silences critics in style!

'I am back': Record-breaker Ronaldo silences critics in style!

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics in spectacular fashion, becoming the first player to score in six World Cups.

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.

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

India may not be at FIFA World Cup 2026, but four players with Indian roots will represent their nations on football's biggest stage.

Visa drama leaves Ghana star out of FIFA World Cup opener

Visa drama leaves Ghana star out of FIFA World Cup opener

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was denied entry into Canada for a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Panama due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the UK, where he faces rape and sexual assault charges. Canada's Federal High Court upheld the visa refusal, despite Ghana's government calling the decision "extremely unfair" and questioning the reliance on unproven allegations.

Mboko Injury Ends Serena Williams' Queen's Club Comeback Run

Mboko Injury Ends Serena Williams' Queen's Club Comeback Run

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Serena Williams' highly anticipated comeback in doubles at the Queen's Club WTA event has been temporarily halted after her partner, Victoria Mboko, withdrew due to a knee injury sustained during a singles match. Williams, who had won her first match with Mboko, is expected to continue her return to tennis in Berlin next week and might seek a Wimbledon wildcard.

Can reform in Mexican football break their FIFA World Cup 'curse'?

Can reform in Mexican football break their FIFA World Cup 'curse'?

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Mexico have failed to progress beyond the Round of 16 for the last 32 years. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, they hope to finally end the 'quinto partido' curse.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico top group, coach refuses to celebrate early

FIFA World Cup: Mexico top group, coach refuses to celebrate early

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre downplayed his team's achievement of topping their World Cup group, stating that true success would be measured later in the tournament. He highlighted the importance of playing at home and the team's improved maturity, while also reflecting on his own calmer coaching style. Aguirre expressed his ambition to guide Mexico into the world's top 10.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ruben Dias backs Cristiano Ronaldo amid growing scrutiny

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ruben Dias backs Cristiano Ronaldo amid growing scrutiny

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Portugal squad are shutting out criticism of the team and captain Cristiano Ronaldo following an underwhelming draw in their World Cup opener against Democratic Republic of Congo, defender Ruben Dias said on Friday.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico edge South Korea in nervy finish, secure home last-32 tie

FIFA World Cup: Mexico edge South Korea in nervy finish, secure home last-32 tie

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Mexico secured a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in a Group A football match in Guadalajara. Luis Romo scored the decisive goal following a goalkeeping error, and Mexico's defence, backed by goalkeeper Ral Rangel's late saves, held firm against South Korean pressure.

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Iran will play their final World Cup warm-up behind closed doors in Turkey on Thursday before departing for their tournament base in Mexico on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: South Africa salvage draw with late penalty vs Czechia

FIFA World Cup 2026: South Africa salvage draw with late penalty vs Czechia

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

South Africa scored a penalty seven minutes from fulltime as they fought back to draw 1-1 with the Czechia at the World Cup on Thursday after falling behind early in the Group A clash.

FIFA World Cup: Confident DR Congo have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo

FIFA World Cup: Confident DR Congo have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Democratic of Republic Congo's supporters are confident their side can shine at the World Cup and have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo To Play Sixth World Cup At 41

Cristiano Ronaldo To Play Sixth World Cup At 41

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to participate in his sixth World Cup at the age of 41, as announced by Portugal coach Roberto Martinez.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Frustrated As DR Congo Hold Portugal To Draw

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Frustrated As DR Congo Hold Portugal To Draw

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Portugal and their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo were left frustrated after being held to a 1-1 draw by Group K rivals Democratic Republic of Congo in their World Cup clash in a sodden Houston.

Ronaldo and Portugal chase elusive FIFA World Cup title

Ronaldo and Portugal chase elusive FIFA World Cup title

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo, playing his 6th FIFA World Cup, headlines the Portugal squad that has a glittering supporting cast that includes Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Nuno Mendes.

FIFA World Cup 2026: England open Group L campaign against old foes Croatia

FIFA World Cup 2026: England open Group L campaign against old foes Croatia

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday, a heavyweight Group L opener that could set the tone for both teams' tournament ambitions.

DR Congo Unlikely To Change FIFA World Cup Plans Despite Ebola Warning

DR Congo Unlikely To Change FIFA World Cup Plans Despite Ebola Warning

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo plans to continue its preparations for the 2026 World Cup despite a warning from the United States about a potential Ebola outbreak.

FIFA World Cup: Kane equals record as England edge Croatia

FIFA World Cup: Kane equals record as England edge Croatia

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Harry Kane struck twice while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford delivered the knockout blows as England survived a back-and-forth battle to beat Croatia 4-2 on Wednesday and launch their World Cup campaign in a heavyweight clash that lived up to its billing.

Bandi jacket in, colonial legacy out in Army uniform overhaul

Bandi jacket in, colonial legacy out in Army uniform overhaul

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Indian Army has removed several colonial-era vestiges from its dress regulations, the mandatory carriage of swords by Reviewing Officers, and the use of pouch belts with certain mess dresses. It has also dropped the use of archaic terminology such as "Royal".

Kavin Quintal Starts 2026 Season With Double Podium

Kavin Quintal Starts 2026 Season With Double Podium

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Indian motorcycle racer Kavin Quintal made an impressive start to his 2026 Copa de Espana de Velocidad campaign by securing two podium finishes in the opening round in Jerez, Spain.

India U-20 To Face Uzbekistan In AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

India U-20 To Face Uzbekistan In AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Indian Under-20 men's team has been drawn into Group B alongside Uzbekistan, Syria, and Bangladesh for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Tashkent from August 25 to September 6.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Co-hosts Mexico kickstart campaign with dominant win over South Africa

FIFA World Cup 2026: Co-hosts Mexico kickstart campaign with dominant win over South Africa

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Julian Quinones gave hosts Mexico a dream start as he scored in the ninth minute in the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match against South Africa.

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a significant generational divide, with players spanning over 25 years in age. Mexico's Gilberto Mora, 17, will be the youngest, while Scotland's Craig Gordon, 43, will be the oldest. The tournament will showcase a mix of emerging talents and seasoned veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, with nations like Panama and Ivory Coast representing the oldest and youngest average squads, respectively.

French Open: Mensik halts Fonseca, Andreeva storms into last four

French Open: Mensik halts Fonseca, Andreeva storms into last four

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Jakub Mensik became the youngest Czech man to reach a Grand Slam semi-final after beating Joao Fonseca at the French Open, while Mirra Andreeva stormed into the last four and Alexander Zverev kept his title hopes alive.

Jil Teichmann upsets Muchova to make French Open last 16

Jil Teichmann upsets Muchova to make French Open last 16

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Jil Teichmann of Switzerland defeated Czech Karolina Muchova in straight sets to reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time since 2022. Teichmann will face Mirra Andreeva in the next round.

Why DR Congo Changed World Cup Plans Due To Ebola Outbreak

Why DR Congo Changed World Cup Plans Due To Ebola Outbreak

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo's national team has been forced to cancel World Cup buildup events in Kinshasa due to the Ebola virus outbreak and will instead continue preparations in Belgium.

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

Rediff.com16 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom will meet Iranian FA officials in Istanbul to offer reassurance over Iran's participation in the World Cup, amidst concerns raised by recent geopolitical tensions and visa issues.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete List Of All 26-Man Squads

FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete List Of All 26-Man Squads

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The official 26-man squads for FIFA World Cup 2026.

Iran Seeks FIFA Clarification On World Cup Visas

Iran Seeks FIFA Clarification On World Cup Visas

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Iran's football federation has requested FIFA to clarify the timeline for issuing tournament visas after relocating their World Cup training camp from Arizona to Tijuana due to diplomatic friction and visa complications.

Djokovic begins quest for 25th Grand Slam crown at French Open

Djokovic begins quest for 25th Grand Slam crown at French Open

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Novak Djokovic begins his quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at the French Open, while Alexander Zverev hopes to finally break through and win his first major. The tournament starts amid tensions over prize money and player influence.

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Thousands Rally For Iran's World Cup Team Amid Visa Concerns

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iran hosted a large send-off rally for its World Cup team in Tehran, despite ongoing concerns about visa issues for entry into the United States, where the team is scheduled to play its group matches.

Mukund Sasikumar Reaches Quarterfinals Of SM Krishna Open

Mukund Sasikumar Reaches Quarterfinals Of SM Krishna Open

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Mukund Sasikumar progressed to the quarterfinals of the SM Krishna Memorial Open tennis tournament, overcoming Taiyo Yamanaka. Other Indian players had mixed results in singles and doubles matches.

Iran 'will play' at 2026 World Cup, says Infantino amid concerns

Iran 'will play' at 2026 World Cup, says Infantino amid concerns

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirms Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup despite geopolitical tensions, urging that sport remain separate from politics.

FIFA World Cup: 'Make the hearts of the people of Iran happy'

FIFA World Cup: 'Make the hearts of the people of Iran happy'

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Dropped Iran striker Sardar Azmoun has posted a heartfelt message on social media proclaiming his love for his country and wishing the World Cup squad well at the tournament without him.

French Open: Nishesh Basavareddy knocks out 7th seed Fritz; Zverev cruises

French Open: Nishesh Basavareddy knocks out 7th seed Fritz; Zverev cruises

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Seventh seed Taylor Fritz was stunned by fellow American Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round of the French Open on Sunday.