News for 'world cup controversy'

Indian Shooters Struggle at ISSF Shotgun World Cup in Tangier

Indian Shooters Struggle at ISSF Shotgun World Cup in Tangier

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Indian shooters had a disappointing outing at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup in Tangier, with both mixed team pairs finishing low in the standings.

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Andrea Pirlo's potential appointment as Italy's head coach is facing significant political opposition due to his commercial ties as a global ambassador for Russian betting company Fonbet, with Italian parliamentarians and football federation figures expressing concerns.

T20 World Cup: India Vs Pakistan: Saqlain Mushtaq Sparks Pitch Controversy

T20 World Cup: India Vs Pakistan: Saqlain Mushtaq Sparks Pitch Controversy

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

Former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has sparked controversy ahead of the India -Pakistan T20 World Cup game in Colombo, suggesting the pitch could be manipulated.

Mohammad Nawaz denies intentional doping after positive test during T20 World Cup

Mohammad Nawaz denies intentional doping after positive test during T20 World Cup

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has responded to the ICC and PCB regarding his positive dope test during the T20 World Cup, denying intentional use of banned substances.

Iran's football team trains in Turkey ahead of FIFA World Cup warm-ups

Iran's football team trains in Turkey ahead of FIFA World Cup warm-ups

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Iran's national football team is training in Turkey for upcoming friendlies as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup, facing heightened attention due to geopolitical tensions.

Iran drop star striker Azmoun before World Cup warm-ups

Iran drop star striker Azmoun before World Cup warm-ups

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Iran striker Sardar Azmoun has been left out of the squad for World Cup warm-ups amid reports of expulsion over alleged disloyalty, sparking controversy.

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.

T20 World Cup: Did Hardik Pandya Disrespect the National Flag?

T20 World Cup: Did Hardik Pandya Disrespect the National Flag?

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

A complaint has been filed against Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya for allegedly disrespecting the national flag during T20 World Cup celebrations. The complaint alleges inappropriate behaviour with the flag while celebrating with his girlfriend.

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Former Italy international Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from contention for the national team's head coach position after his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet drew significant criticism and opposition from Italian football officials and lawmakers.

T20 World Cup: Pakistan's Amir Trolled as India Prove Him Wrong

T20 World Cup: Pakistan's Amir Trolled as India Prove Him Wrong

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir faces trolling after his prediction that India wouldn't reach the T20 World Cup semi-finals proved wrong, despite his concerns about a controversial dismissal and India's overall performance.

T20 World Cup: 'Why Is Axar Sitting Out?'

T20 World Cup: 'Why Is Axar Sitting Out?'

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

India's loss to South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super 8s has sparked outrage among fans, who are questioning Coach Gautam Gambhir's decision to bench Axar Patel in favour of Washington Sundar.

T20 World Cup: 'Beta, Perform!' Afridi Publicly Schools Shadab

T20 World Cup: 'Beta, Perform!' Afridi Publicly Schools Shadab

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

Tensions have emerged within Pakistan cricket after Shadab Khan's response to criticism following the team's defeat to India in the T20 World Cup. His remarks have drawn criticism from former players and prompted a response from the PCB and Shahid Afridi.

Trump: Replacing Infantino as FIFA President would be 'terrible mistake'

Trump: Replacing Infantino as FIFA President would be 'terrible mistake'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stating that replacing him would be a 'terrible mistake' and that the sport would 'never be as successful or profitable' without him, despite Infantino facing significant backlash and a battle to retain his position ahead of next year's presidential elections.

India-Pakistan Handshake Stirs Debate

India-Pakistan Handshake Stirs Debate

Rediff.com6 days ago

Wednesday's India-Pakistan World Cup match in Amstelveen saw players exchange handshakes, a gesture that has become contentious in India-Pakistan sporting encounters, particularly in cricket. While the Indian team dominated on the field, winning 5-3, the post-match handshakes led to mixed reactions online, highlighting the differing approaches to rivalry in hockey versus cricket.

Internal Strife Rocks Hockey India Amidst Jersey Controversy

Internal Strife Rocks Hockey India Amidst Jersey Controversy

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The controversy within Hockey India regarding the change in the Indian teams' jersey colour has intensified. President Dilip Tirkey's deadline for Executive Director Commander RK Srivastava to submit documents explaining the decision was missed, leading to the Secretary General requesting an emergency Executive Board meeting. This issue, along with unaddressed harassment complaints, highlights significant internal strife within the organisation.

'Blatant lies!': Bangladesh coach slams ex-adviser over T20 World Cup exclusion

'Blatant lies!': Bangladesh coach slams ex-adviser over T20 World Cup exclusion

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

Bangladesh assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin criticizes former sports adviser Asif Nazrul for allegedly misrepresenting facts regarding the national team's exclusion from the T20 World Cup, stating that players were devastated by the decision.

Sreejesh: 'We have played in blue in almost every major tournament'

Sreejesh: 'We have played in blue in almost every major tournament'

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Legendary Indian hockey player P R Sreejesh has urged the men's team to ignore the ongoing jersey colour controversy and focus on ending the 50-year World Cup medal drought. He dismissed concerns about the saffron jersey, noting past colour changes, but questioned the visibility argument. Sreejesh emphasised that if players approved the change, the debate should cease, and politics should be kept out of sports. He also expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform despite the off-field distractions.

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.

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

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

Rediff.com6 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.

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh Journalists' Media Applications Rejected

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh Journalists' Media Applications Rejected

Rediff.com27 Jan 2026

The ICC's decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2026 has sparked another controversy and this time, it's affecting the media.

T20 World Cup: Can Brook silence noise in England's opener?

T20 World Cup: Can Brook silence noise in England's opener?

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

England faces Nepal in their T20 World Cup opener, hoping to shift focus from off-field issues surrounding captain Harry Brook. Nepal aims to make an impact after a strong showing in the previous edition.

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.

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.

Hardik Singh: 'Orange jersey is a team strategy, a tactic'

Hardik Singh: 'Orange jersey is a team strategy, a tactic'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Indian hockey vice-captain Hardik Singh stated that the new orange-coloured jersey for the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup is a 'team strategy' and a 'tactic' to avoid clashes with the blue Astroturf, a decision that has sparked controversy.

PCB talks with ICC may save India-Pak T20 World Cup clash

PCB talks with ICC may save India-Pak T20 World Cup clash

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday met his Bangladesh counterpart Aminul Islam and ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja in Lahore, even as efforts to resolve the standoff over Pakistan's proposed boycott of the high stakes T20 World Cup match against India gather pace.

Fresh controversy hits India's shooting setup

Fresh controversy hits India's shooting setup

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A top national shotgun coach, involved in India's Asian Games preparations, is under investigation by the Sports Authority of India for alleged conflict of interest related to a contract for building a shooting range in Chennai.

V V S Laxman To Replace Agarkar As India's Chief Selector?

V V S Laxman To Replace Agarkar As India's Chief Selector?

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman is reportedly being considered to replace Ajit Agarkar as the chief selector for the BCCI, whose extended tenure ends next month.

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed his disappointment, calling football a "cruel game" after his team's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the World Cup round of 32. Senegal had held a 2-0 lead until the 85th minute but conceded two late goals, followed by a controversial penalty in extra time that led to their elimination.

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The upcoming LaLiga season promises an intense battle as Barcelona defends its title against a revamped Real Madrid, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, and a turbulent Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid has made significant signings and brought back Mourinho after two trophyless seasons, while Barcelona relies on continuity and its World Cup-winning core. Atletico Madrid faces pressure on manager Diego Simeone and a potential transfer saga involving Julian Alvarez, setting the stage for a dramatic season.

African Football Chiefs Back Gianni Infantino Despite FIFA Governance Crisis

African Football Chiefs Back Gianni Infantino Despite FIFA Governance Crisis

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Leading African football administrators have publicly expressed their support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, offering him crucial backing ahead of next March's presidential election, despite his recent decision to abandon a controversial plan to sell a stake in future World Cup revenue.

'Despicable woman': Mbappe hits back at Paraguayan senator

'Despicable woman': Mbappe hits back at Paraguayan senator

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

France striker Kylian Mbappe hit back at a Paraguayan senator, describing her as a "despicable woman" on Monday after she launched a racist attack on him following Paraguay's elimination from the World Cup.

'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.

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.

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.

Milei government decree targets foreigners inciting hatred against Argentina

Milei government decree targets foreigners inciting hatred against Argentina

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Argentina's President Javier Milei's government has issued a decree allowing the deportation of foreigners who incite hatred or violence against the country and its citizens, a move that comes amid criticism of the national football team's behaviour and political messaging during the recent FIFA World Cup.

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.

'Saffron Has Never Been Traditional Colour Of Indian Hockey': Dhanraj

'Saffron Has Never Been Traditional Colour Of Indian Hockey': Dhanraj

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Hockey legend Dhanraj Pillay has voiced his displeasure over the Indian hockey team's decision to adopt saffron as its primary jersey colour, arguing that the blue jersey has been the sport's long-standing identity for decades.

T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka urges Pakistan to rethink India match boycott

T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka urges Pakistan to rethink India match boycott

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

Citing heavy losses all around, SLC urges PCB to reconsider boycott of Indo-Pak fixture

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has strongly defended Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after US President Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a controversial red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup.

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted within Hockey India over the national teams' new saffron jerseys, replacing the traditional blue.