News for 'football'

'I should invite Obama, Biden': Trump moots White House football reunion

'I should invite Obama, Biden': Trump moots White House football reunion

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Former President Donald Trump, during a podcast, suggested inviting Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and the Bush family to the White House to watch a football game. This surprising idea came as he read a book about presidents' leisure activities, a notable departure from his usual criticism of Obama and Biden. He also offered rare praise for Bill Clinton and humorous remarks about William Howard Taft.

Ronaldinho Reverses Retirement For Shock Return To Football At 46

Ronaldinho Reverses Retirement For Shock Return To Football At 46

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Football legend Ronaldinho has come out of retirement at 46 to sign with Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC.

Meghalaya Celebrates Football Stars Sanfida Nongrum And Ribansi Jamu

Meghalaya Celebrates Football Stars Sanfida Nongrum And Ribansi Jamu

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) felicitated state footballers Sanfida Nongrum and Ribansi Jamu for their pivotal roles in India's victory at the SAFF Women's Championship 2026. The players, who contributed significantly to India reclaiming the title, were honoured with cash rewards and recognition, inspiring young girls in the state to pursue football.

AIFF President Appeals To Tata Group Over Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit

AIFF President Appeals To Tata Group Over Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit

Rediff.com2 days ago

All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey has urged the Tata group to reconsider its decision to withdraw Jamshedpur FC from the Indian Super League. While Tata maintains it's a strategic move for grassroots development, Chaubey believes the decision should not be purely financial and highlights Tata's significant contributions to Indian football through the Tata Football Academy.

AIFF President Appeals To Tata Group Over Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit

AIFF President Appeals To Tata Group Over Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit

Rediff.com2 days ago

All India Football Federation President Kalyan Chaubey has urged the Tata group to reconsider its decision to withdraw Jamshedpur FC from the Indian Super League. While Tata maintains it's a strategic move for grassroots development, Chaubey believes the decision should not be purely financial and highlights Tata's significant contributions to Indian football through the Tata Football Academy.

Mexico, Argentina back Infantino amid FIFA World Cup rights row

Mexico, Argentina back Infantino amid FIFA World Cup rights row

Rediff.com17 hours ago

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.

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Despite Pakistan not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, Karachi is buzzing with excitement as the global event begins. "WC Football" villages have been set up in areas like Malir and Lyari, known for their love of the sport, featuring large screens, decorations, and enthusiastic fans. The city's passion for football is evident, with local clubs and administration organising events for youngsters, highlighting the sport's growing influence beyond cricket.

Tata Steel Explains Why Jamshedpur FC Pulled Out of the ISL

Tata Steel Explains Why Jamshedpur FC Pulled Out of the ISL

Rediff.com4 days ago

Jamshedpur FC's withdrawal from the Indian Super League was a pre-planned strategic decision to refocus on grassroots football development, independent of the league's commercial uncertainties, according to Tata Steel Vice President D B Sundara Raman.

Scotland Fans Bring Football Fervour To Boston Baseball

Scotland Fans Bring Football Fervour To Boston Baseball

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Thousands of Scottish football supporters, known as the Tartan Army, took a break from the World Cup in Boston to attend a baseball game at Fenway Park. They marched with bagpipes and sang their national anthem, bringing their vibrant fan culture to the Boston Red Sox game after their team's recent victory.

'FIFA President Gianni Infantino Must Resign Now'

'FIFA President Gianni Infantino Must Resign Now'

Rediff.com1 days ago

Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) President Lise Klaveness has called for the immediate resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stating he 'does not have the institutional trust required to govern FIFA stably' and that 'there is no going back for Gianni Infantino'.

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Rediff.com2 days ago

The All India Football Federation's decision to field two separate teams for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup and an international friendly against Brazil has sparked controversy.

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.

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.com6 hours ago

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.

Tata Steel Details Player Support After Jamshedpur FC's ISL Withdrawal

Tata Steel Details Player Support After Jamshedpur FC's ISL Withdrawal

Rediff.com4 days ago

Tata Steel has confirmed that Jamshedpur FC will honour all existing player contracts and assist footballers in finding new clubs following its withdrawal from the Indian Super League. The company also clarified that its commitment to grassroots football and youth development in Jamshedpur remains strong, with no plans to relocate the club's operations.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 23rd FIFA World Cup, to be staged across the Americas from June 11 to July 19, has once again ignited excitement across the globe. India, despite its national football team languishing at 139th in the FIFA rankings, has been swept up in the tournament's magic.

South Korea FA apologises for alleged 'sexual services' to foreign referees

South Korea FA apologises for alleged 'sexual services' to foreign referees

Rediff.com7 hours ago

South Korea's national football association has issued a deep apology following a media report alleging it provided 'sexual services' to foreign referees during international matches over a decade ago, specifically in 2011 and 2012.

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

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

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

Chhetri's Anguish: Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit A 'Punch In The Gut'

Chhetri's Anguish: Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit A 'Punch In The Gut'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has voiced his deep disappointment over Jamshedpur FC's decision to withdraw from the upcoming Indian Super League season. Describing the move as "a punch in the gut," Chhetri urged the Tata Group, owners of the club, to reconsider, highlighting their crucial role in Indian football development. The club's withdrawal, influenced by a new AIFF administrative fee, means the ISL will proceed with 13 teams.

England Football Team Suffers Major Equipment Theft Ahead Of World Cup

England Football Team Suffers Major Equipment Theft Ahead Of World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The England football team's training equipment, including players' boots and manager Thomas Tuchel's tactical gear, was reportedly stolen in Kansas City ahead of their World Cup opener against Croatia. The Football Association and local police are investigating, with two arrests already made.

FIFPRO Slams Infantino for 'Profound Abuse of Power' Over World Cup Privatisation Plan

FIFPRO Slams Infantino for 'Profound Abuse of Power' Over World Cup Privatisation Plan

Rediff.com1 days ago

The global players' union, FIFPRO, has strongly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accusing him of 'profound abuse of presidential power' following the secretive development and subsequent shelving of the 'FIFA Forward Enterprise' plan, which aimed to privatise the FIFA World Cup.

Indian Football Team Receives Rousing Welcome In London

Indian Football Team Receives Rousing Welcome In London

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Indian men's football team, participating in the Unity Cup in the UK, was warmly welcomed at India House in London ahead of their match against Zimbabwe. The team interacted with fans and shared insights during a reception hosted by the High Commission of India.

'A Big Blow To Infantino': Former FIFA VP Jim Boyce Slams 'Ludicrous' World Cup Stake Sale Plan

'A Big Blow To Infantino': Former FIFA VP Jim Boyce Slams 'Ludicrous' World Cup Stake Sale Plan

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce has strongly criticised President Gianni Infantino's abandoned plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors, labelling the proposal 'ludicrous' and urging FIFA to prioritise the interests of fans over profit.

New deadline set as AIFF tries to save Jamshedpur FC

New deadline set as AIFF tries to save Jamshedpur FC

Rediff.com2 days ago

The All India Football Federation has extended the deadline for Jamshedpur FC to reconsider its decision to withdraw from the Indian Super League until August 12. This move comes as the AIFF reviews preparations for the upcoming ISL season, while Jamshedpur FC maintains its exit is a strategic decision focused on grassroots development, unrelated to the league's commercial future.

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Rediff.com4 days ago

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.

Sunil Chhetri's Plea To Tata Group: Don't Shut Down Jamshedpur FC

Sunil Chhetri's Plea To Tata Group: Don't Shut Down Jamshedpur FC

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former India captain Sunil Chhetri has publicly appealed to the Tata Group to reverse its decision to withdraw Indian Super League club Jamshedpur FC.

German Footballers Wary Of Venomous Snakes At World Cup Camp

German Footballers Wary Of Venomous Snakes At World Cup Camp

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

German footballers at their FIFA World Cup base camp in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, are concerned about venomous snakes, specifically copperheads, after spotting one. Captain Joshua Kimmich expressed worries about potential bites, a sentiment echoed by Swiss and Norwegian teams, highlighting an unusual distraction for players preparing for the tournament.

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be football's largest tournament but will unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts, strained alliances, and complex immigration policies, challenging its traditional role as a symbol of global unity.

Brazil to face India in historic friendly in Kolkata on October 3

Brazil to face India in historic friendly in Kolkata on October 3

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Almost five decades after Pele ignited Kolkata's romance with Brazilian football, the iconic yellow jersey is set to return to the City of Joy, with the record five-time World Cup champions Brazil scheduled to face India in a landmark international friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium on October 3.

AIFF Announces Tentative Football Season Calendar For 2026-27

AIFF Announces Tentative Football Season Calendar For 2026-27

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has released its tentative calendar for the 2026-27 season, featuring the Indian Super League (ISL), Federation Cup, and other key tournaments.

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

Rediff.com6 days ago

Gianni Infantino's position as FIFA president is deemed 'untenable' by the head of Europe's professional football leagues following his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, a move that triggered widespread protest and a loss of confidence from regional confederations.

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Rediff.com3 days ago

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is holding a crisis meeting with top officials in Morocco to address the fallout from his failed attempt to sell commercial rights to the World Cup, a move that has led to widespread criticism and calls for his removal.

Jamshedpur FC to withdraw from ISL, focus on grassroots development

Jamshedpur FC to withdraw from ISL, focus on grassroots development

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Jamshedpur FC has announced its withdrawal from the Indian Super League (ISL) starting from the 2026-27 season, hours after missing a payment deadline. The club stated its commitment to promoting and developing football at the grassroots level in India. This comes amidst a new agreement between AIFF and ISL clubs for a club-led model of the league.

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa has strongly criticised FIFA's plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, calling the lack of consultation "totally unacceptable". He stated that FIFA's unilateral actions undermine continental football and urged member federations to await further discussions before approving the $20 billion proposal.

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

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

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

Players' Union Slams FIFA's 'Disturbing' $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan

Players' Union Slams FIFA's 'Disturbing' $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Australia's players union has joined global criticism of FIFA's proposal to bring private investors into the World Cup and other events, citing a lack of transparency and pressure on member associations to approve the $20 billion plan.

Did FIFA bow to pressure? Prince Ali thinks so

Did FIFA bow to pressure? Prince Ali thinks so

Rediff.com2 days ago

Prince Ali bin Hussein, President of the Jordan Football Association, revealed that FIFA paid outstanding prize money to Jordan's national team after he accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of blackmail. Prince Ali had alleged FIFA withheld funds for reaching the 2025 Arab Cup final, linking payment to his endorsement of Infantino. Despite receiving the funds, Prince Ali reiterated his refusal to endorse or vote for Infantino, highlighting ongoing concerns about FIFA's leadership and its presidential elections.

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

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 Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

Rediff.com6 days ago

UEFA and CONCACAF say they have lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the governing body withdrew its controversial World Cup rights plan.

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Spanish footballer Rafa Mir has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of sexual assault and assault causing injury by a court in Valencia. The verdict, which can be appealed, follows a complaint filed in September 2024 and highlights the sensitive issue of women's rights in Spanish sports.