News for 'indian sports fans'

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.

How Shreyas Iyer Inspired India's Zimbabwe Win

How Shreyas Iyer Inspired India's Zimbabwe Win

Rediff.com1 hour 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.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

When I planned my 27th birthday trip to Kerala, I had a very clear vision in mind. There would be beaches. There would be the backwaters. There would be long boat rides, cute cafs and perhaps a fancy dinner overlooking the water. What I did not anticipate was celebrating my birthday with Lionel Messi.

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Rediff.com3 days ago

Veteran Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh, despite numerous accolades including Olympic medals, is determined to win a World Cup medal before concluding his illustrious career after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

AIFF Executive Committee Reviews Bids for Commercial Rights, Considers Sports Governance Act

AIFF Executive Committee Reviews Bids for Commercial Rights, Considers Sports Governance Act

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is evaluating commercial rights bids for its flagship competitions, including the Indian Super League and the Indian Women's League. The Executive Committee is also discussing the implementation of the National Sports Governance Act.

'We don't want money or parades': Satwik hits back

'We don't want money or parades': Satwik hits back

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Ace doubles badminton player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy clarified his recent comments regarding the muted public reception after the Indian team won the Thomas Cup bronze medal, emphasising the need to celebrate all sporting achievements.

Century of sporting ties: India to play biggest-ever bilateral series in New Zealand

Century of sporting ties: India to play biggest-ever bilateral series in New Zealand

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

India will tour New Zealand for a record 12-match series in late 2026, featuring five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests, with NZC expecting packed stadiums throughout the marquee contest.

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Indian women's cricket team has secured a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games as the top-ranked Asian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup. The men's team will need to be the continental leaders in world rankings by the end of 2026 to qualify directly. Cricket is making its return to the Olympics after a century, featuring six teams in both men's and women's competitions, with qualification criteria unveiled by the ICC.

Global Chess League Season 4 Set For Bengaluru Showdown

Global Chess League Season 4 Set For Bengaluru Showdown

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Global Chess League (GCL) announced that its fourth season will take place in Bengaluru starting September 3. The league, a joint initiative of Tech Mahindra and FIDE, features a unique team-based format with mixed-gender lineups and rapid-fire matches, aiming to transform chess into a global spectator sport.

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem Sends CWG Warning To Neeraj Chopra

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem Sends CWG Warning To Neeraj Chopra

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Pakistan's Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem admits feeling pressure as he prepares to defend his title at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Nadeem, who will lead Pakistan's contingent, is set to renew his rivalry with India's Neeraj Chopra, who missed the last Games. Despite recent injury setbacks for both athletes, Nadeem is confident in his preparation, including an international meet in Switzerland, to regain his form and secure another gold.

8 High-Growth Careers If You Love Sports

8 High-Growth Careers If You Love Sports

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

With growing opportunities in the coaching, sports science, training and wellness industries, a career in sports provides a dynamic and fulfilling career path.

East Bengal clinch Indian Super League title after 22-year wait

East Bengal clinch Indian Super League title after 22-year wait

Rediff.com22 May 2026

East Bengal FC secured their first Indian Super League title, ending a 22-year drought with a 2-1 victory over Inter Kashi, sparking jubilant celebrations among fans.

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Kolkata's iconic 'FIFA Gully' has transformed a small neighbourhood lane into a colourful World Cup attraction, with murals and giant cut-outs of Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar and other football stars celebrating the city's enduring love for the beautiful game.

Why Djokovic And Gu Are Hosting Laureus Awards Together

Why Djokovic And Gu Are Hosting Laureus Awards Together

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Novak Djokovic and Eileen Gu will co-host this year's Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid, marking a historic first for the prestigious event.

What People Munch On At Half-Time

What People Munch On At Half-Time

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

What do we eat when we watch football?

Praggnanandhaa scripts history, becomes first Indian to win Norway Chess title

Praggnanandhaa scripts history, becomes first Indian to win Norway Chess title

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title.

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Reigning Indian Super League champions East Bengal have announced the appointment of decorated Spanish coach Antonio Lopez Habas as their new head coach for the 2026-27 season. Habas, known for his successful stints in Indian football, returns to familiar territory as the club prepares to defend its maiden ISL League Shield amidst ownership uncertainties.

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Nora Fatehi drops FIFA World Cup anthem track

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Canadian singer Nora Fatehi has released her latest international collaboration, "Siir Siir," which is part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 music programme, marking another significant global milestone in her career. The track, featuring Vegedream, blends pop and R&B, celebrating her multicultural journey and expanding her international fan base.

IPL Franchises Race Towards $15 Billion Valuations

IPL Franchises Race Towards $15 Billion Valuations

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders, owned by the Shah Rukh Khan family and Mehta Group, emerged as the most valuable franchise.

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia says FIFA's expanded 48-team World Cup format significantly improves India's chances of qualification while creating new opportunities for emerging football nations across Asia and beyond.

IPL 2026: Dhurandar Star Sara Arjun Is A Mumbai Indians Fan

IPL 2026: Dhurandar Star Sara Arjun Is A Mumbai Indians Fan

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Sara Arjun, who sported a Mumbai Indians jersey, attended the match with her parents actor Raj Arjun and Kathak dancer Sanya Arjun.

T20 is here to stay, not too sure about ODIs, says Ashwin

T20 is here to stay, not too sure about ODIs, says Ashwin

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is a necessary addition in the existing assortment of franchise-based tourneys as the format is here to stay unlike ODIs, said Indian spin bowling legend Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday.

Greek Tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis Takes Helm At Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Greek Tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis Takes Helm At Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant has appointed Greek tactician Panagiotis Dilmperis as their new head coach on a one-year contract. Known for his attacking yet balanced style and ability to blend youth with experience, Dilmperis aims to build a disciplined and courageous side to compete for all trophies, acknowledging the high expectations and the significance of the Kolkata Derby.

Why F1 is unlikely return to India in 2027 despite Sports Minister's big push

Why F1 is unlikely return to India in 2027 despite Sports Minister's big push

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is pushing for a Formula 1 race in India in 2027 by addressing tax hurdles that led to the event's departure in 2013.

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has officially approved the qualification system for cricket at the LA Olympic 2028, marking the sport's return after 128 years. The event will feature men's and women's T20 competitions with six teams each.

Tendulkar, Pathan, send Eid wishes to fans

Tendulkar, Pathan, send Eid wishes to fans

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Sachin Tendulkar, Irfan Pathan and other sports stars extend Eid-ul-Fitr greetings on social media, wishing peace and prosperity.

Indian Origin Golfers To Feature At PGA Championship

Indian Origin Golfers To Feature At PGA Championship

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Akshay Bhatia, Sahith Theegala, Aaron Rai and Sudarshan Yellamaraju will represent Indian talent at the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. These rising stars are poised to make a significant impact, while top contenders like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy also vie for the Wanamaker Trophy.

Dream Sports pivots to fintech, AI, and sports entertainment after gaming ban

Dream Sports pivots to fintech, AI, and sports entertainment after gaming ban

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Following a ban on real-money gaming, Dream Sports, the parent company of Dream11, is strategically expanding its portfolio across 11 companies, including a new venture into wealth management and stockbroking, with a focus on serving a mass user base through AI-first solutions, cofounder Harsh Jain confirmed.

18-year-old record breaker Anushka eyes Neeraj Chopra-like popularity

18-year-old record breaker Anushka eyes Neeraj Chopra-like popularity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

A national record holder at just 18, Uttar Pradesh athlete Anushka Yadav has a simple wish -- to make hammer throw match the popularity of javelin which has a massive fan following in the country.

Why Bengal Is Removing Salt Lake Stadium Football Sculpture

Why Bengal Is Removing Salt Lake Stadium Football Sculpture

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The West Bengal government plans to remove the football-themed sculpture outside Salt Lake Stadium, designed by former chief minister Mamata Banerjee, and upgrade the venue's infrastructure.

10 Football Fever Moments From Bollywood

10 Football Fever Moments From Bollywood

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Exploring memorable scenes that celebrate football in the movies.

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin praised Cabo Verde on X, urging fans to "Remember the name" after their spirited performances.

India's Got Latent 2: 'Donald Trump' Steals The Show

India's Got Latent 2: 'Donald Trump' Steals The Show

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Not only is Samay Raina going the Kapil Sharma route by bringing celebrities as special guests on his show -- which also means he has to be careful that his jokes don't land them in trouble as well -- but he also has to promote sponsors blatantly, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Sports stars extend Holi greetings

Sports stars extend Holi greetings

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Shikar Dhawan posted Holi greetings for fans on social media.

India Basketball League Set To Launch In 2027

India Basketball League Set To Launch In 2027

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The India Basketball League (IBL), backed by former NBA stars, is set to launch in 2027 with the aim of building a professional basketball ecosystem in India. The league hopes to tap into India's expanding youth culture and create a sustainable professional structure for Indian basketball.

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Nora Fatehi has successfully transitioned to the global stage, with her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem Siir Siir becoming a viral hit, especially following Morocco's impressive draw against Brazil.

Ganguly hails East Bengal after historic maiden ISL title triumph

Ganguly hails East Bengal after historic maiden ISL title triumph

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sourav Ganguly congratulated East Bengal after the Kolkata giants won their first-ever Indian Super League title, ending a 22-year wait for top-tier league glory.

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India's most-capped hockey player Manpreet Singh idolises Virat Kohli and credits his longevity to fitness, saying he has drawn inspiration from the star cricketer's fitness regime.

IPL's next TV deal could break all records again

IPL's next TV deal could break all records again

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman anticipates a significant increase in the next IPL media rights cycle, potentially reaching 20-30 per cent, driven by recent high-value franchise acquisitions and the league's consistent engagement.

'Virat, Vaibhav Batting Together At LA Olympics Will Be So Much Fun'

'Virat, Vaibhav Batting Together At LA Olympics Will Be So Much Fun'

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

'I would request the selectors to please include Virat for the Olympics. The Olympics is only taking place because of Virat and his fan following.'