News for 'World 2026'

'I Hope to See Many More Singhs at World Cup': Sarpreet Inspires Next Gen

'I Hope to See Many More Singhs at World Cup': Sarpreet Inspires Next Gen

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

New Zealand midfielder Sarpreet Singh, the first Sikh footballer to play at a FIFA World Cup, hopes his historic appearance will inspire more players of Indian and South Asian heritage to reach football's biggest stage.

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Spain's young star Lamine Yamal has confidently stated that France holds no advantage in the FIFA World Cup 2026, dismissing them as favourites. Yamal expressed strong belief in Spain's ability to win the tournament, highlighting that knockout rounds are a different challenge from the group stage.

'They showed who is the boss'

'They showed who is the boss'

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic praises Mexico after Ecuador victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on Tuesday.

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed various issues ahead of the World Cup, defending the body's handling of visa challenges, stressing its inability to override government decisions, and highlighting efforts to ensure participation from all nations, including Iran. He also defended ticket pricing and expressed optimism for a competitive tournament focused on unity.

IPL 2026: KKR's Rs 18 Cr Signing Pathirana Lasts Just 8 Balls

IPL 2026: KKR's Rs 18 Cr Signing Pathirana Lasts Just 8 Balls

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Matheesha Pathirana's debut for Kolkata Knight Riders was short-lived as he suffered an injury during his first match against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, raising concerns about his fitness and KKR's playoff chances.

Isak-Gyokeres Strike Force Faces Tunisia's Iron Defence in World Cup Opener

Isak-Gyokeres Strike Force Faces Tunisia's Iron Defence in World Cup Opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Sweden's star strike partnership of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres faces a stern challenge against Tunisia's rock-solid defence as the two sides begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F campaign.

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Iran's players say adversity has united Team Melli after a resilient 0-0 draw against Belgium kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive. A win over Egypt could secure a historic first-ever place in the last 32.

Why Cricket's Olympic Inclusion At LA 2028 Is A Game-Changer!

Why Cricket's Olympic Inclusion At LA 2028 Is A Game-Changer!

Rediff.com4 days ago

Cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is a strategic move by Olympic leaders to tap into India's massive fan base and commercial power, aiming to attract billions of new viewers and strengthen the Games' appeal in key markets.

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Ten-man Belgium dominated possession but could not break down a disciplined Iranian defence, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a string of saves to preserve the result in the Group G encounter.

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has publicly defended teammate Jude Bellingham, highlighting his crucial role and 'X-factor' for the team despite media scrutiny. Henderson also discussed his own controversial selection for his fourth World Cup and the challenge of facing Luka Modric.

FIFA World Cup: Spain's Yamal says the best is yet to come

FIFA World Cup: Spain's Yamal says the best is yet to come

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Spain's teenage winger Lamine Yamal says he has plenty of improvement left in his fledgling career with fans not yet having seen the best.

IPL 2026: Kishan, Abhishek, Klaasen blistering fifties help SRH trounce RCB

IPL 2026: Kishan, Abhishek, Klaasen blistering fifties help SRH trounce RCB

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 55 runs, but RCB secured the top spot in the IPL standings due to their net run rate. SRH posted a formidable 255/4, while RCB reached their target of 166 to ensure a top-two finish.

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Italian Football Federation has appointed legendary former captain Paolo Maldini as its new Technical Director, aiming to leverage his experience to revitalise the national team's international standing after recent World Cup qualification struggles.

How Shreyas Iyer Inspired India's Zimbabwe Win

How Shreyas Iyer Inspired India's Zimbabwe Win

Rediff.com4 days ago

Shreyas Iyer urged his players to shed fear and forget the past: 'Be in the present. Maximise the opportunity you're getting. Tomorrow is a new day.' Simple words, but they struck deep.

How Young Players Sparked Kohli's Batting Reinvention In IPL 2026

How Young Players Sparked Kohli's Batting Reinvention In IPL 2026

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli credits the influence of young players for his T20 reinvention and fastest IPL fifty, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second successive trophy. He highlights the team's depth and shared responsibility in securing the IPL title.

England not World Cup favourites but can dare to dream

England not World Cup favourites but can dare to dream

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel believes they are in good shape heading into the FIFA World Cup and can "dare to dream" about lifting the trophy.

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Toronto is expecting more than 300,000 visitors during the World Cup with six matches to be played in the city.

Major blow! Shreyanka Patil out of T20 World Cup

Major blow! Shreyanka Patil out of T20 World Cup

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Off-spinner Shreyanka Patil has been ruled out of the Women's T20 World Cup due to an ankle injury sustained during a match against the Netherlands. Uncapped leg-spinner Prema Rawat has been named as her replacement, marking a significant setback for the Indian team and a maiden call-up for Rawat.

How Pedro Porro Became Spain's Indispensable Right-Back

How Pedro Porro Became Spain's Indispensable Right-Back

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Pedro Porro has emerged as a pivotal player for Spain in the World Cup, transforming the right-back position into a strength. His exceptional performance against France in the semi-final, where he scored and was named MVP, has solidified his place, drawing parallels to Marc Cucurella's rise. Porro's defensive prowess and attacking contributions have been crucial for Spain's journey to the final against Argentina.

IPL 2026: From Replacement Player To Captain Fantastic: Rajat Patidar's Fairytale Rise

IPL 2026: From Replacement Player To Captain Fantastic: Rajat Patidar's Fairytale Rise

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Rajat Patidar has the golden chance to emulate legends Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Rohit Sharma -- the only two captains to win back to back IPL titles.

IPL 2026: 'Delhi Capitals didn't grab key moments': Ian Bell

IPL 2026: 'Delhi Capitals didn't grab key moments': Ian Bell

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell expressed frustration over the team's inconsistent performance in the IPL season, highlighting missed opportunities and narrow defeats that prevented a top-four finish.

Mexico Eye Winning Start Against South Africa In FIFA World Cup Opener

Mexico Eye Winning Start Against South Africa In FIFA World Cup Opener

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Mexico will kick off their home World Cup campaign against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca, carrying the pressure of fan expectations and a strong unbeaten run.

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.

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Rediff.com7 days ago

AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has signed a contract extension, committing his future to the Serie A club until June 2027. The 40-year-old Croatian international, who joined Milan last year, has made 37 appearances and scored two goals.

The perfect pitch is the goal for World Cup grass growers

The perfect pitch is the goal for World Cup grass growers

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

From Mexico to Canada, across 16 stadiums in wildly different climates, the continental tournament is putting turf science to its ultimate test. The goal: creating living surfaces that can withstand kicks, studs, tackles and scorching summer heat.

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

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

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

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.

Spain's Lamine Yamal: Football Is About Integration, Not Division

Spain's Lamine Yamal: Football Is About Integration, Not Division

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Spain's young football star Lamine Yamal, celebrating his 19th birthday, spoke about football's power to foster integration and unity ahead of the World Cup semi-final against France, while also sharing light-hearted moments about his family and personal milestones.

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr. has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's shocking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, confirmed his decision after the match, marking the end of a celebrated career with the national team.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com4 days ago

It was left to an incensed Gen Z to show the rest of India that enough was enough, and that the time had come to shatter the fear psychosis generated by the government's authoritarian approach to protests and criticism, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

40 Years After 'Hand Of God' Diego Maradona Still Argentina's World Cup Hero

40 Years After 'Hand Of God' Diego Maradona Still Argentina's World Cup Hero

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Monday marks 40 years since Diego Maradona's defining performance in Argentina's 2-1 win over England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium.

FIFA World Cup: USA crush Australia to seal last-32 spot

FIFA World Cup: USA crush Australia to seal last-32 spot

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The United States football team secured its place in the World Cup knockout stage with a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia. An early own goal and an Alex Freeman header sealed the win, despite the absence of key player Christian Pulisic. The team's depth was highlighted as they dominated the match, moving to six points in Group D.

FIFA World Cup: Germany Players, Coach Divided After Shock Ecuador Defeat

FIFA World Cup: Germany Players, Coach Divided After Shock Ecuador Defeat

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Germany's 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in the World Cup knockout stage sparked a disagreement between coach Julian Nagelsmann and players Joshua Kimmich and Deniz Undav. While the players felt Ecuador 'wanted it more', Nagelsmann strongly rejected this assessment, urging the team to learn and improve for their next match.

IPL 2026: How Riyan Parag turned hate into success

IPL 2026: How Riyan Parag turned hate into success

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Riyan Parag has repaid the immense faith placed on him by Rajasthan Royals in his first full season as captain with a last minute play-off berth in the Indian Premier League.

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay due to a thigh injury. The 26-year-old, a regular starter, is expected to be replaced by Manu Kone as France continues its knockout stage campaign.

Commonwealth Games: Bindyarani Devi battles hard to claim weightlifting bronze

Commonwealth Games: Bindyarani Devi battles hard to claim weightlifting bronze

Rediff.com3 days ago

India's Bindyarani Devi secured a bronze medal in the women's 58kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games, despite facing challenges with two unsuccessful clean and jerk attempts. Nigeria's Rafiatu Folashade Lawal won gold with record-breaking lifts, while Canada's Ann-Sophie Taschereau took silver. Devi's gritty performance marked India's fifth weightlifting medal at the Games.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan women's team fined for slow over rate vs India

T20 World Cup: Pakistan women's team fined for slow over rate vs India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against India in their Group A match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup played at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Sunday.

Coach Nagelsmann quits after Germany ouster from FIFA WC

Coach Nagelsmann quits after Germany ouster from FIFA WC

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The decision was made following Germany's World Cup exit in the Round of 32 following their loss to Paraguay.

IPL 2026: Will Dhoni Play His First Match?

IPL 2026: Will Dhoni Play His First Match?

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has missed the first six games of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury.

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Iran face an anxious wait to see if they will progress to the World Cup knockout stage after they came from behind to hold Egypt to a 1-1 draw.