News for 'Soccer'

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The San Jose Earthquakes, despite their strong season, are making way for the U.S. national team as California hosts World Cup knockout matches. This event is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase soccer's global appeal and accelerate its growth in the state, which already boasts a thriving football culture driven by its diverse population and numerous professional teams.

Beyond soccer... Cricket finds a home in Houston

Beyond soccer... Cricket finds a home in Houston

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

World Cup fever has gripped Houston, but across the city the unmistakable sound of leather ball on willow bat can be heard as baseball mounds give way to cricket pitches and the gentleman's game begins to take hold in Texas.

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.

Ready For The World Humanoid Robot Games?

Ready For The World Humanoid Robot Games?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Glimpses of humanoid robots training across soccer, table tennis and other events ahead of the 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing.

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, Bay Area soccer clubs and supporters hope the tournament will inspire a new generation of fans and strengthen the region's thriving grassroots football culture.

Mauricio Pochettino to lead US men's team through 2030 World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino to lead US men's team through 2030 World Cup

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to extend his contract, leading the men's national team through the 2030 World Cup, following their last-16 finish at this year's finals.

Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's Father And Former Agent, Dies Aged 68

Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's Father And Former Agent, Dies Aged 68

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Jorge Messi, father of football icon Lionel Messi and his long-time representative, has passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness. He was a crucial pillar of support throughout his son's career, from his early days at Barcelona to his current stint with Inter Miami.

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Six Arab football federations, including 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco and Qatar, have publicly declared their "full support" and "confidence" in FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes as Infantino faces significant backlash and withdrawals of support from European and Oceania federations over his failed $20 billion private investment plan for the World Cup, highlighting a growing schism within global football governance.

India coach Marijne questions tight FIH World Cup schedule after loss

India coach Marijne questions tight FIH World Cup schedule after loss

Rediff.com3 days ago

India's coach Sjoerd Marijne has criticised the tight scheduling at the FIH World Cup, particularly after his team's 0-2 loss to the Netherlands, citing the burden of playing on consecutive days.

Jordan FA President alleges FIFA offered help for Infantino endorsement

Jordan FA President alleges FIFA offered help for Infantino endorsement

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Jordan Football Association President Ali bin Hussein has publicly accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of 'blackmail', alleging that FIFA offered to resolve the kingdom's football problems in exchange for his endorsement, a claim FIFA has been contacted about for comment.

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's bid for a fourth term as FIFA president faces challenges from traditional football powers, but his strategy relies heavily on the support of smaller, emerging nations that benefit significantly from FIFA's development grants.

Denmark Loses Confidence in Infantino, Seeks New FIFA President

Denmark Loses Confidence in Infantino, Seeks New FIFA President

Rediff.com3 days ago

Denmark's football association (DBU) has declared it has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino and will seek a credible alternative for the 2027 election, citing a 'fundamental crisis of confidence' over his aborted proposal to sell commercial stakes in FIFA tournaments.

PSG Teams Up with Google: Gemini AI Assistant & Pixel Official Smartphone

PSG Teams Up with Google: Gemini AI Assistant & Pixel Official Smartphone

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

French football champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have announced a partnership with Google, making Google Gemini their official AI assistant and Google Pixel their official smartphone, with plans for a Google space at Parc des Princes stadium.

Mexico, Argentina back Infantino amid FIFA World Cup rights row

Mexico, Argentina back Infantino amid FIFA World Cup rights row

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Mexico and Argentina's football associations have publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, despite a significant backlash over his abandoned proposal to sell commercial rights to the World Cup, with other confederations and national bodies expressing strong opposition.

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Fans, former teammates, and opponents gathered in Milan to bid farewell to Franco Baresi, the iconic AC Milan and Italy defender who passed away at 66. Baresi, a legendary figure in Italian football, was remembered for his illustrious 20-year career with AC Milan and his contributions to the Italian national team.

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Wimbledon achieved record attendance and social media engagement, along with strong broadcasting figures, despite competing with the soccer World Cup. The tournament saw over half a million fans, significant retail sales, and a notable audience share for the women's singles final in the Czech Republic.

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Rediff.com15 hours ago

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is campaigning for re-election by positioning himself as the advocate for less wealthy football nations, while UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled out running against him but anticipates an opposition candidate.

Colombia Earthquake: CONMEBOL Postpones Club Matches, Expresses Support

Colombia Earthquake: CONMEBOL Postpones Club Matches, Expresses Support

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

CONMEBOL has postponed two continental club matches following a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake in western Colombia that killed at least 164 people, with revised dates and venues to be announced later.

FIFA advisor quits, calls World Cup stake sale 'bad deal for football'

FIFA advisor quits, calls World Cup stake sale 'bad deal for football'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Carlos Cordeiro, senior advisor to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, has resigned with immediate effect, protesting a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, which he labelled 'a bad deal for football'.

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Despite a population of 1.45 billion, India's football team is ranked a lowly 138th in the world and failed to qualify for next year's Asian Cup, highlighting deep-rooted systemic issues and a failure to implement reforms that keep the World Cup dream distant for fans.

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid is facing significant challenges as several national football federations, including Serbia, Sweden, and Wales, have withdrawn their support.

Messi's next match unclear after father's death

Messi's next match unclear after father's death

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos addressed Lionel Messi's return to play following the recent demise of his father, Jorge. Hoyos emphasised the need for "silence, calm and peace" for Messi to grieve and dictate his schedule, highlighting the club's supportive approach as they manage the superstar's on-field comeback amidst crucial MLS fixtures.

FIFA labels report of Infantino seeking Trump's help 'pure fiction'

FIFA labels report of Infantino seeking Trump's help 'pure fiction'

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA has vehemently denied a report claiming President Gianni Infantino sought assistance from the U.S. President Donald Trump's administration following the collapse of a multi-billion dollar plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights, calling the allegations 'pure fiction'.

Tata Steel Sells Jamshedpur Football Club To Churchill Brothers For Rs 100

Tata Steel Sells Jamshedpur Football Club To Churchill Brothers For Rs 100

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Tata Steel has announced the sale of its entire 100% equity stake in Jamshedpur Football to Churchill Brothers for Rs 100.

FIFA President Infantino Tried to Reach Trump After Rights Plan Collapse: Report

FIFA President Infantino Tried to Reach Trump After Rights Plan Collapse: Report

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reportedly sought support from the Trump administration following the collapse of his plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights, facing mounting criticism and feeling 'isolated' by negative media coverage.

Rodri's Ibiza Photo Sparks Hilarious Reactions

Rodri's Ibiza Photo Sparks Hilarious Reactions

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Manchester City midfielder Rodri's holiday photo from Ibiza went viral, drawing comparisons to the 'distracted boyfriend' meme.

Somali soccer referee denied US entry, will miss FIFA World Cup

Somali soccer referee denied US entry, will miss FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Somali football referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, expected to be the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup match, was denied entry into the United States due to "vetting concerns" by US Customs and Border Protection.

Infantino: World Cup stake sale 'an opportunity, not an obligation'

Infantino: World Cup stake sale 'an opportunity, not an obligation'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has clarified that the plan to sell stakes in the World Cup is a proposal and 'not an obligation', following strong criticism from regional football confederations who felt blindsided by the idea.

FIFA to proceed with $20 billion World Cup investment plan despite UEFA boycott

FIFA to proceed with $20 billion World Cup investment plan despite UEFA boycott

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

FIFA has announced it will proceed with its consultation process to bring private investment into the World Cup and other tournaments, despite strong opposition and a boycott threat from UEFA. The plan involves creating a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, to manage commercial and event operations, offering external investors up to 20% stakes.

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

Rediff.com4 days ago

Regional football powerhouses, including UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, are reportedly discussing a vote of no confidence against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This move comes after Infantino angered them with a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Despite significant opposition, Infantino retains support from some member associations, particularly from Africa, complicating any challenge to his leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Friday that the world soccer's governing body has abandoned its controversial plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors, following widespread backlash from major confederations and internal dissent.

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

FIFA's proposal to create a $20 billion subsidiary for the World Cup highlights the intricate balance of power in global football, where the governing body's authority is often challenged by the significant commercial strength of UEFA, particularly in Europe.

10 Things We Learnt From KBC's New Season

10 Things We Learnt From KBC's New Season

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18 launched on Sony Liv at 9 pm on August 10 with the stars and producer of Batwara in the hot seat.

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

UEFA's member associations have unanimously voted to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA competitions in protest against FIFA's plan to sell stakes to external investors in a subsidiary managing its tournaments.

Why FIFA's $20B Plan Has UEFA Up in Arms

Why FIFA's $20B Plan Has UEFA Up in Arms

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA's proposal to create a $20 billion subsidiary for the World Cup, offering up to 20% stakes to external investors, aims to democratise global football finance but has been condemned by UEFA as selling the game's "soul."

Ugandan footballer David Owori dies after assault in Kampala

Ugandan footballer David Owori dies after assault in Kampala

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

David Owori, the 28-year-old captain of Ugandan football club SC Villa and an international player, has died after being critically injured in an assault by unidentified assailants in Kampala.

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

Infantino's Re-election Bid in Jeopardy as Federations Withdraw Support

Infantino's Re-election Bid in Jeopardy as Federations Withdraw Support

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The national football federations of Serbia, Sweden, and Wales have withdrawn their support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid, with England's FA also expected to follow suit, intensifying the backlash against him following a failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors.

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing a deepening crisis after his proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup was abandoned, leading to public distancing from influential executives and calls for his removal from office.