News for 'host'

Big change? FIFA plans 64-team for 2030 World Cup

Big change? FIFA plans 64-team for 2030 World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that the governing body will discuss expanding the World Cup to 64 teams for the 2030 edition, following the already planned increase to 48 teams in 2026. Infantino believes a larger tournament encourages smaller nations and highlights the success of previous expansions, with the 2030 event already set to be hosted across six nations on three continents.

RBI's Concessional Swap Facility Poised to Draw $85 Bn in Foreign Inflows

RBI's Concessional Swap Facility Poised to Draw $85 Bn in Foreign Inflows

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

India is projected to attract between $80 and $85 billion through the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) concessional swap facility, designed to boost foreign currency inflows, according to an SBI research report.

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Why Sharad Pawar Has Not Joined BJP Yet

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

At this point at 85, Sharad Pawar is like a mature but ageing trapeze artist who is assessing if he will still land on his feet if he jumps from the safe perch of INDIA to the NDA. Can a Great Betrayal be presented as a tactical move? Watch Sharad Pawar do it, predicts Aditi Phadnis.

Baby Vihaan: Katrina Shares First Look

Baby Vihaan: Katrina Shares First Look

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Katrina Kaif celebrates her birthday with her 'most precious blessing'.

CWG 2026: No Wrestling, Badminton, TT: How It Affects India's Medal Hopes

CWG 2026: No Wrestling, Badminton, TT: How It Affects India's Medal Hopes

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Glasgow 2026 will look very different for India. Several of the country's biggest medal-winning sports-including wrestling, badminton, hockey and table tennis-have been dropped from the Commonwealth Games, leaving India with far fewer chances to add to its medal tally.

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final joined an exclusive list after Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time. This is the ninth time a Cup final went beyond the stipulated 90 minutes,

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted India's growing global sporting stature, evidenced by the increasing number of international events the country is hosting. He announced that India is set to host 36 international events between January 2025 and June 2026, along with 9 events this year and 19 in 2027-2028. Mandaviya also spoke about government support for athletes, transparent selection processes for major events like the Commonwealth Games, and improved domestic athletic performances, citing 26 national records broken in Indian athletics recently.

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.

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.

How India's Hockey Team Is Gearing Up For World Cup Success

How India's Hockey Team Is Gearing Up For World Cup Success

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The Indian men's hockey team is undertaking a high-intensity mental conditioning camp in Switzerland with coach Paddy Upton, mirroring their successful preparation for the Paris Olympics. This crucial camp aims to build team chemistry and trust ahead of the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games.

DKS appeals to Vijay to put off Bengaluru visit

DKS appeals to Vijay to put off Bengaluru visit

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has appealed to his Tamil Nadu counterpart C Vijay Joseph to defer his proposed August 3 visit to Bengaluru. The request comes amidst widespread protests in Karnataka following a decision by the CWMA upholding a direction for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu.

No buzz yet, but Glasgow gears up for Commonwealth Games

No buzz yet, but Glasgow gears up for Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Despite a subdued atmosphere in Glasgow ahead of the Commonwealth Games, with limited public buzz, preparations are underway, and athletes are arriving. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga, fresh off a Diamond League win, is a strong contender for gold, offering a significant medal hope for his nation.

Durand Cup Expands To Five Cities, Welcomes Seven New Teams

Durand Cup Expands To Five Cities, Welcomes Seven New Teams

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Durand Cup football tournament will feature 24 teams, including seven debutants, across five cities from July 25 to August 23. Kolkata remains the primary hub, hosting the final, while Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong, and Guwahati will also host matches, bringing together a diverse mix of Indian and overseas teams.

Sonam, Elavenil Reach 10m Air Rifle Final At World Cup But Miss Out On Medals

Sonam, Elavenil Reach 10m Air Rifle Final At World Cup But Miss Out On Medals

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Indian shooters Sonam Uttam Maskar and Elavenil Valarivan reached the women's 10m air rifle final at the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, finishing fifth and sixth respectively.

Gen Z, Watch Out: 10 Digital Traps to Avoid

Gen Z, Watch Out: 10 Digital Traps to Avoid

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Whether you're politically active or simply an everyday internet user, these are ten digital traps worth understanding.

16 Indians killed in Middle East conflict this year, 75 injured: Govt

16 Indians killed in Middle East conflict this year, 75 injured: Govt

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have lost their lives, and 75 have been injured. Separately, 30 Indian nationals were among 52 individuals arrested and deported by US Border Patrol during 'Operation Checkmate' for allegedly being in the United States illegally.

SRK's Knight Riders Play First Match At New Cricket Ground In Los Angeles

SRK's Knight Riders Play First Match At New Cricket Ground In Los Angeles

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Pomona, Los Angeles, which is set to host cricket at the 2028 Olympics, recently held its inaugural competitive match.

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Didier Deschamps has revealed that a "stifling atmosphere" around him led to his decision to step down as France coach after 14 years.

Amitabh Bachchan Undergoes Surgery: 'Homecoming Is Most Difficult'

Amitabh Bachchan Undergoes Surgery: 'Homecoming Is Most Difficult'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Amitabh Bachchan opens up about recent surgery: 'You are a revered champion and one day a defeat stares at you .. this is the most difficult phase of your life.'

Knight Riders Cricket Ground Makes Historic Debut In Los Angeles

Knight Riders Cricket Ground Makes Historic Debut In Los Angeles

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Pomona, Los Angeles, which is set to host cricket at the 2028 Olympics, recently held its inaugural competitive match. Developed by the Knight Riders Group, the venue saw the Los Angeles Knight Riders play against Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket, with Washington Freedom securing a six-wicket victory. This new, purpose-built stadium is a significant development for cricket in the United States.

Intent of infiltrators hasn't changed since Kargil war: Rajnath

Intent of infiltrators hasn't changed since Kargil war: Rajnath

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the "intent of infiltrators" remains unchanged since the 1999 Kargil conflict, but assured that the Indian Army is "fully prepared" to meet any such challenges, emphasising the government's focus on armed forces modernisation.

Donald And Lowry Lead Stellar Field At DP World India Championship

Donald And Lowry Lead Stellar Field At DP World India Championship

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

European Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald and Major winner Shane Lowry are confirmed to participate in the second edition of the DP World India Championship in October. They will join a strong field of international golf stars, including other Ryder Cup heroes and Open Champion Ryan Fox, at the Delhi Golf Club for the USD 4,000,000 event.

'One humiliation too many': Shashi Tharoor tears into India's latest defeat

'One humiliation too many': Shashi Tharoor tears into India's latest defeat

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed his profound disappointment and frustration after India suffered a heavy nine-wicket defeat to England in the fourth T20I in Bristol, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead for the hosts in the five-match series. Tharoor described the loss as "one humiliation too many."

Zidane takes over as France national team head coach

Zidane takes over as France national team head coach

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former France midfielder and Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of the French national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps.

Tech delayed is tech denied: IAF chief bats for more Aatmanirbharta in defence

Tech delayed is tech denied: IAF chief bats for more Aatmanirbharta in defence

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, the IAF chief, has strongly advocated for India to achieve greater self-reliance in unmanned aerial systems and other critical defence technologies, stating, "Technology delayed is technology denied." He stressed the importance of indigenous development to avoid dependency on other countries for components.

PM Narendra Modi surprises Steve Waugh with nostalgic photograph

PM Narendra Modi surprises Steve Waugh with nostalgic photograph

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a nostalgic moment with former Australia captain Steve Waugh during a visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, presenting him with a photograph from their first meeting more than two decades ago when Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Redefines Heroism For The Modern Era

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Redefines Heroism For The Modern Era

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey masterfully reinterprets the legendary figure of Odysseus, presenting him as a multifaceted hero grappling with the horrors of war, the responsibilities of leadership, and an enduring longing for home.

How To Steal A Recipe...

How To Steal A Recipe...

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Getting hold of a recipe requires a skill even James Bond cannot master.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

In Peru, there is a wave of new baby Haalands. In Argentina, Lionel has raced up the rankings, and in Mexico a girl was reportedly named after three soccer players. Parents in Latin America are already christening a new generation of babies after the stars of the World Cup.

Bhumi Pednekkar: 'Assam Really Needs Our Support'

Bhumi Pednekkar: 'Assam Really Needs Our Support'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Entire villages have been washed away, animals have been washed away. Whatever they had, everything is finished.'

Belgium entrust Mark van Bommel with Nations League, Euro 2028 mission

Belgium entrust Mark van Bommel with Nations League, Euro 2028 mission

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Belgium have appointed former Netherlands international Mark van Bommel as their new head coach on a two-year contract running until the 2028 European Championship.

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Parliament on Thursday passed a bill to amend the anti-paper leak law to introduce stricter punishments, with the government expressing its commitment to go the extra mile to safeguard the interests of students, who are the country's future.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max: Expected Launch Date In India, Camera Upgrades, New Colours And More

Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max: Expected Launch Date In India, Camera Upgrades, New Colours And More

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Calling iPhone addicts: Launch timeline and everything we know so far about Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi becomes youngest batter to score T20I fifty

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi becomes youngest batter to score T20I fifty

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi announced himself on the international stage in spectacular fashion, becoming the youngest batter to score a T20I half-century with a stunning 18-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in the first T20I in Harare on Thursday.

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony blending Scottish heritage and a strong message of sustainability. King Charles III declared the Games open, highlighting efforts to combat plastic pollution. The event featured a unique indoor setting, an early athletes' parade including the Indian contingent, and diverse musical and cultural performances, setting a new precedent for the multi-sport event.

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony at the OVO Hydro, blending Scottish heritage with modern performances. King Charles III declared the Games open, emphasising a message of sustainability, particularly regarding plastic pollution in oceans. The event showcased a new, more compact model for the Games, focusing on existing venues and integrated Para sports, following Glasgow's role as a step-in host.

Dhurandhar Actor Ayesha Khan Detained During Protests

Dhurandhar Actor Ayesha Khan Detained During Protests

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Actors Ayesha Khan, Imran Khan, Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem have joined the nationwide youth protests.

Lupita's Odyssey Red Carpet Appearance Gets A Desi Touch

Lupita's Odyssey Red Carpet Appearance Gets A Desi Touch

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

At the New York premiere of The Odyssey, Lupita Nyong'o, who plays Helen of Troy in the Christopher Nolan film, stepped out in a breathtaking metallic gold Nicholas Oakwell Couture gown. But it was her necklace that had fashion lovers in India doing a double take.

Dilip Kumar To Shah Rukh Khan: Indians Who Refused Iconic Hollywood Films

Dilip Kumar To Shah Rukh Khan: Indians Who Refused Iconic Hollywood Films

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

From Fahadh Faasil and Dilip Kumar to Sridevi and Shah Rukh Khan, a look at Indian actors who reportedly came close to starring in iconic Hollywood blockbusters but ultimately missed out.

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.