Allen Park — Brian Branch has yet to suffer a setback in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon that ended his 2025 season, but head coach Dan Campbell isn't ready to put a timetable on his return just yet.Branch tore his Achilles tendon in December of last season. While Achilles recovery can be 9 to 12 months, recent medical developments have expedited that timeline in some cases. Thursday in Allen Park, Campbell was specifically asked whether Branch, who's missed the offseason program to rehab from the injury, could potentially be ready for Week 1. "I don't know. I guess there's always a chance," Campbell said. "I'm gonna just go ahead and widen the window so we don't have to talk about it anymore. Let's just go ahead and say December, and then anything before that is a bonus."Branch, a 2024 Pro Bowler, is part of a safety duo that's one of the league's best when healthy, but is fully in flux as Kerby Joseph also tries to heal from a knee injury that ended his 2025 season, costing him 11 games.Campbell said Branch "could be" a candidate to start on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which would cost him at least his first four games."Look, there's no setbacks with him. That's what I can tell you," Campbell said. "He's doing a good job, he's putting in the work, but until we really get closer, I'd hate to start throwing a timetable on him."Branch, a 2023 second-round pick, became eligible to sign a contract extension this offseason. He's expected to be among the league's highest-paid safeties, although he might not be in line for a market-resetting deal. General manager Brad Holmes said earlier in the offseason Branch's injury doesn't change the franchise's desire to re-sign him. Campbell said the upcoming financial commitment will likely lead them to err on the side of caution."I think you always want to know that your guys, that they are healthy and that this is healed," Campbell said. "You're always gonna kinda want to lean that way, knowing the investment that would go into that."nbianchi@detroitnews.com@nolanbianchiThis article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Brian Branch injury update: No setbacks in recovery for Lions safety

Across much of America, marriage equality is widely accepted and recognized as a fundamental right. More than a decade after the Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex couples had a constitutional right to marry, LGBTQ+ families across America have flourished. Study after study has shown that children of same-sex couples fare just as well – or better – than those of straight couples. But right now, a network of anti-LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations is fighting to undermine this truth, while seeking to undo Obergefell by reviving the same baseless fears about children that once justified denying families legal recognition in the first place. Recently, the so-called “Greater Than” campaign was launched by a coalition of organizations that have long opposed any legal protections or basic fairness for LGBTQ+ people and our families. This initiative aims to overturn Obergefell under the guise of concern for American children’s well-being and safety. Related Someone stole my Pride flag 3 times. This anonymous letter from a neighbor brought me to tears. The truth is that marriage equality is good for children. As the executive director of COLAGE, our nation’s only organization exclusively for people with LGBTQ+ parents, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of marriage equality on the children of LGBTQ+ parents, who, after Obergefell, could finally share in the common language of marriage and family with their peers. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today For many of us, growing up with queer parents was shaped less by our own family dynamics than by how classmates, teachers, neighbors, politicians, and popular media and other social pillars reacted to our families. The respect or stigma directed at our parents could not help but shape our feelings about our own families. This experience drove many of us to fight so hard for marriage. Obergefell was a clarifying moment in which our families felt validated by the government and socially. COLAGE Program Manager Jordan Polcyn-Evans summed up the impact of Obergefell on his life this way: “I was raised by two moms, and I always knew that our family was legitimate and no different from anyone else, but the fact that we were not legally recognized the same way as others made me feel like our family was less-than. Marriage equality was a huge step forward, and I’m heartbroken to think that kids like me in families like mine might have to go back to feeling the way I did growing up if this ruling is overturned.” The “Greater Than” campaign aims to destroy that life-altering victory. It’s a campaign that ultimately rests on denigrating families simply because they differ from those that include a married mother and father who are both biologically related to their children. The generations of children of LGBTQ+ parents our organization is privileged to work with every day can attest to how wrong and harmful that argument is, as can the abundant research showing that children raised by same-sex parents fare just as well as children raised by opposite sex parents. In response to such threats to LGBTQ+ family stability, supporters of marriage equality are taking crucial steps to ensure the freedom to marry endures should Obergefell be overturned. In Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, lawmakers and advocates are currently working to repeal anti-marriage equality laws, as a number of other states have done. There are millions of thriving adults who can—and do—share our experiences of being raised by LGBTQ+ parents, and specifically married LGBTQ+ parents. It’s critical that decisions around the freedom to marry are informed by the experiences of the majority, not a fringe population that does not have our best interests at heart. When Obergefell was decided, Justice Kennedy remarked that the positive impact of marriage equality on the children of LGBTQ+ parents was central to the Court’s decision. It’s also why a majority of Americans from all walks of life and across the political spectrum support marriage equality. As more people have come to know LGBTQ+ people and their families, they have learned that what matters most for children is the presence of caring, committed adults, along with stable homes, community support, and access to the resources families need. They understand that the freedom to marry strengthens families, communities, and the economy—and harms no one. That truth has not changed. That’s why we will keep making our voices heard in state legislatures, Congress, the courts, and the court of public opinion to ensure that leaders and policymakers listen to our voices anytime they contemplate the legal, social, and financial futures of our families. Jordan Wilson (he/him) is the Executive Director of COLAGE and a longtime organizer with more than fifteen years of experience in campaigns, labor organizing, and nonprofit leadership. Prior to joining COLAGE, he worked as an International Representative for the Office and Professional Employees International Union and also served as Florida’s Youth and LGBT Vote Director for President Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign. He lives in Providence, RI, with his husband and hopes to grow his family in the near future. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The Justice Department once tried to stay out of state elections, urging caution. It is now pressing forward with claims of fraud as President Trump revives his unfounded assertions that elections cannot be trusted.

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 04: Brian Branch #32 of the Detroit Lions plays against the Dallas Cowboys at Ford Field on December 04, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images In recent weeks, we’ve seen some clips of Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch and his rehabilitation from an Achilles injury suffered in early December. We’ve also seen some other players across the league who suffered Achilles injuries offer some optimism for their 2026 outlook. Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, who suffered an Achilles just days after Branch, was cleared for 7-on-7s this month. Niners tight end George Kittle is still aiming a Week 1 return, despite suffering his injury in the playoffs.On Thursday, I asked Campbell if there was an outside chance Branch could be ready at some point in training camp. Safe to say, Campbell wasn’t quite as optimistic as Jones or Kittle.“Uh, I don’t know. I mean, I guess there’s always a chance,” Campbell said.Then, he joked, “I’m gonna just go ahead and widen the window so we don’t have to talk about it anymore. Let’s just go ahead and say December and then anything before that is a bonus. That way you don’t have to ask me.” If Branch isn’t ready for training camp, he’ll likely start on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Detroit will then have to make a decision at the start of the season if they’ll keep him on the PUP list, which would force him to miss at a minimum four games. Campbell said Branch is a candidate for that, but did offer some optimism.“He could be,” Campbell said. “Look, there’s no setbacks with him. That’s what I can tell you. He’s doing a good job, he’s putting in the work, but it’s a little—until we really get closer, I hate to start throwing a timetable on him, but he’s doing well.”Complicating matters for Branch is that he’s entering a contract year. Lions general manager Brad Holmes has already expressed an interest in giving him an extension, but on Thursday Campbell said they may need to get some reassurance about Branch’s future health before making that move. “You always want to know that your guys are healthy and that this is truly healed,” Campbell said. “You’re always going to want to lean that way knowing the investment that would go into that.”

Editor's note: Follow along live for 2026 World Cup opening match and the star-studded opening ceremony in Mexico City!An international soccer phenom has discovered rollback pricing.Spain’s rising superstar Lamine Yamal shared a series of Instagram photos documenting his journey in the U.S. before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, and among the highlights is a photo of Yamal leaving a Walmart in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His shopping basket overflowing with everything from snacks to personal essentials.Lamine Yamal went grocery shopping at a Walmart in the U.S. 😭🔥(📸 lamineyamal/IG) pic.twitter.com/RyvVvoPY1W— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 11, 2026Chattanooga is the temporary home for the Spain national team. Their training base is Baylor School, a private high school that has a state-of-the-art facility.The runner-up for the 2025 Ballon d'Or in 2025, the best young player at Euro 2024, Yamal is a household name in any soccer-watching home. Despite being just 18, he is critical to Spain's chances to live up to the favorite tag, which is why his recovery from a hamstring issue is being monitored so closely. Yamal is a dynamic attacking player who not only helped Spain to the Euro win but also has won three La Liga titles with Barcelona, being named top player of the season this year.As the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters the group stage, players from every continent are making the most of their North American adventures. Beyond the rigorous training sessions, many have been spotted exploring the local culture, sampling regional cuisine, visiting iconic landmarks, and making lighthearted stops at popular retail chains such as Buc-ees and now Walmart.Drawn into Group H, Spain will begin their quest for World Cup glory on Monday, June 15, when they face Cape Verde at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Spain's Lamine Yamal discovered a true American institution: Walmart

Mexico vs. South Africa free live stream: How to watch World Cup game online without cable originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The 2026 World Cup has finally arrived and soccer fans around the world will be tuning into today's opener between Mexico and South Africa.The pair also played the curtain-raiser in the 2010 World Cup when South Africa hosted with a 1-1 draw the outcome on that occasion.With Mexico now co-hosts, they'll be hoping to put on a memorable performance in the capital to get their Group A campaign off to a winning start before matches against South Korea and Czechia.The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match and kickoff times.LIVE: Follow Mexico vs. South Africa updates from 2026 World CupMexico vs. South Africa free live streamThis game is available to stream for FREE on fubo. Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)Mexico vs. South Africa channel, live streamTV channel: Fox NetworkStreaming:fubo,Fox One, Fox Sports app/websiteThis match will be broadcast on Fox Network with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up a for a FREE trial.What time does Mexico vs. South Africa kick off?This World Cup clash takes place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and kicks off on Thursday, June 11 at 2 p.m. local time.Here's how that time translates across the United States:DateKickoff timeEastern TimeThurs, June 113 p.m.Central TimeThurs, June 112 p.m.Mountain TimeThurs, June 111 p.m.Pacific TimeThurs, June 1112 p.m.World Cup fixtures today and tomorrowAll times Eastern.Thursday, June 11Mexico vs. South Africa (3 p.m.)South Korea vs. Czechia (10 p.m.)Friday, June 12Canada vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina (3 p.m.)USA vs. Paraguay (9 p.m.)MORE:Complete World Cup schedule and fixtures2026 FIFA World Cup FAQsWhen is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to run from June 11 through July 19, 2026. It will be the first World Cup hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico.Where is the 2026 FIFA World Cup being played?The 2026 World Cup will be played across 16 host cities in North America, with matches taking place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be the first men’s World Cup hosted by three countries.The 16 host cities are Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle in the United States; Toronto and Vancouver in Canada; and Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey in Mexico.How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, expanding from the 32-team format used in previous tournaments. The larger field also means more matches, more knockout-round games and more countries involved than ever before.The 48 teams are Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cape Verde, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, Curaçao, Czechia, DR Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Ghana, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Senegal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Türkiye, United States, Uruguay and Uzbekistan.How many games are in the 2026 World Cup?There will be 104 matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That includes the group stage, knockout rounds and the final.Can I stream the 2026 World Cup?Yes. Streaming options will depend on the match, language and broadcast partner. In the U.S., Fox Sports lists FOX and FS1, which are available on fubo for English-language coverage, while Telemundo will stream every match live on Peacock and the Telemundo App for Spanish-language coverage.What channel is the 2026 World Cup on?In the U.S., English-language matches are expected across FOX and FS1, which are available on fubo for those without cable, while Spanish-language coverage will air on Telemundo and Universo, which you can stream on DIRECTV and Peacock. Check the schedule for the specific match you want to watch.When is the 2026 World Cup final?The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026. The match will be played at New York-New Jersey Stadium, FIFA’s tournament name for MetLife Stadium.What time do World Cup games start?Kickoff times vary by date, host city and round. Because the tournament is being played across multiple time zones in the United States, Canada and Mexico, fans should check the official match schedule for start times in their local time zone.Is the United States playing in the 2026 World Cup?Yes. The United States automatically qualified for the 2026 World Cup as one of the three host nations, along with Canada and Mexico.

All the game times for the Kentucky Wildcats 2026 football schedule have been announced, although some are flex times that could be 3:30-4:30 eastern time or a night game depending on the week. Kentucky has momentum on the recruiting trail and the big blue nation is buzzing about year one of the Will Stein era. It is no secret nor surprise that the Wildcats have a daunting schedule this season, although they did manage to dodge Texas and Georgia who are widely recognized as the two best teams in the conference. Let's rank Kentucky's schedule in terms of difficulty, going from easiest to hardest.12. Week 1 vs Youngstown State; 1 PM ETKentucky opens up week one of the Will Stein era with a perfect tune up game. Youngstown State is coming off an 8-5 season, but the talent discrepancy will loom large in week one. Expect Coach Stein and his staff to run vanilla schemes and hold a ton back for their massive SEC opener in week two against Alabama. Cats will cruise to a 1-0 start.11. Week 4 vs South Alabama; 12:45 PM ETSouth Alabama might have a bit more talent than Kentucky's week one opponent, Youngstown State. However, they don't have enough to threaten for an upset. The Jaguars are coming off a 4-8 season where they allowed opponents to score 30 points per game. Expect an offensive showcase from the Wildcats in week four.10. Week 8 vs Vanderbilt; 6-8 PM ETKentucky's second game under the lights at Kroger Field will be against Vanderbilt. Head coach Clark Lea has done a phenomenal job turning around Vanderbilt's football program, but there are a ton of question marks as to how it will look post-Diego Pavia. Starting a true freshman at quarterback in the SEC rarely proves to be beneficial, so Jared Curtis will have a lot on his plate in his debut season for the Commodores. Kentucky hasn't defeated Vanderbilt since 2023, but with the roster turnover the Commodores face, this should be the most winnable SEC game on the schedule for the Cats. 9. Week 12 at Missouri; 6-8 PM ETKentucky travels to CoMo in the second to last regular season game. Missouri has some talented players on both sides of the ball, but superstar running back Ahmad Hardy's availability is into question due to a recent gunshot wound. How soon he will return and how quickly he can get back to being 100% is the reason they come in at ninth on this list. Kentucky has a chance to steal an SEC road win at this point of this season.8. Week 5 at South Carolina; FLEXKentucky goes down to South Carolina in a flex game, which means it could kickoff between 3:30-4:30 PM ET or be under the lights. Williams-Brice Stadium is one of the more difficult places to play at night, the rowdy crowd makes their presence felt with echoes of Sandstorm and the rooster crows. South Carolina is in a weird spot, however, it feels like head coach Shane Beamer could be on the hot seat in a hurry if things don't turnaround quickly. The Wildcats will have a month of football to figure things out, but the team must account for game wreckers like quarterback LaNorris Sellers and edge rusher Dylan Stewart if they want to snap their four game losing streak to the Gamecocks.7. Week 11 vs Florida; 6-8 PM ETThe Florida Gators will be a much improved football team by the time they make their way to Lexington with former Kentucky alum Jon Sumrall leading the charge at head coach. Kentucky has had the Gators' number over the past several seasons, and defeated them last year under the lights of Kroger Field as well. This one has a ton of storylines built in, as many thought Coach Sumrall would end up being Mark Stoops' successor. Can Coach Stein prove in year one he was the right hire and lead the Wildcats to a second straight victory over Florida?6. Week 13 vs Louisville; NOON-1 PM ETThe Governor's Cup will have an early kickoff yet again as two former Trinity quarterbacks at head coach lead their teams for their first rivalry meeting. The rivalry needs to get back to even, as Louisville has embarrassed Kentucky in the previous two outings. I am sure Coach Stein will have this one circled as a former Cardinal quarterback, but also because this is a pivotal game for his first season as head coach. Bringing the Governor's Cup back to Lexington with a win over Louisville would do wonders in recruiting and flipping this series back in Kentucky's favor is one of the biggest tasks for this new regime.5. Week 2 vs Alabama; 3:30 PM ETCoach Stein gets his welcome to the SEC moment in week two against Alabama in a time slot that will have a ton of eyes on the new look Kentucky Wildcats. This can be a statement game for the new coaching staff on a national stage, and expect them to empty everything they have to try to get this victory because they know how massive it could be for the program's success. This has trap game written all over it for the Crimson Tide in my opinion, mainly because they will have just one game of film to look at of this Kentucky team. Aside from that, head coach Kalen DeBoer has had some struggles in true road games, most notably losing to a 5-7 Florida State team in week one last season and guess who the Crimson Tide will face in week three? Florida State...4. Week 10 at Tennessee; 6-8 PM ETAlabama will have a better team than the Tennessee Volunteers in 2026, but the position of each game arrived me to this ranking. Playing the Vols under the lights of Neyland Stadium is incredibly difficult and certainly has not been kind to Kentucky in the past. Kentucky's new defensive scheme should be much better at slowing down Josh Heupel's offense from a coaching perspective, but they will still find ways to create explosives. Kentucky will have to match those explosives to have any chance at an upset, and when you look on paper the talent gap is not as wide as people think but the night game is a tough draw for the Cats.3. Week 6 vs LSU; 6-8 PM ETKentucky is set to face Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers in week six for the first Keeneland double header of the season. The atmosphere at Kroger Field should be one of the better ones of the year. Similar to the Tennessee game, I believe the Wildcats will have to get in a track meet if they want a chance to upset LSU. That is of course easier said than done when Coach Kiffin is on the opposing sideline.2. Week 7 at Oklahoma; FLEXThe Oklahoma Sooners are being slept on in my opinion and could be one of the best all around SEC teams in 2026. Head coach Brent Venables is one of the best defensive minds in the country and quarterback John Mateer had shown flashes before injuring his hand last season. This is a difficult spot for Kentucky and they could just be outmatched in Norman. I think the Sooners are the most talented team on Kentucky's schedule, but the position of the next game kept them from ranking number one on this list.1. Week 3 at Texas A&M; 3:30 PM ETA trip to College Station will be the Wildcats first road game of the season. Despite losing some firepower on both sides of the football, the Aggies will still be one of the more talented teams in the conference. An early September kickoff will make for a sweltering afternoon game at Texas A&M and Kentucky will be coming off what could be a dogfight against Alabama. Unless defensive coordinator Jay Bateman can provide a real edge against his former team, it is hard to see the Cats having a chance to win in this spot.This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky football 2026 schedule: Ranking every opponent

The New York Knicks are one win away from their first NBA championship since 1973, and there’s excitement among the fanbase. However, an ugly off-court incident involving San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has drawn national criticism.A viral video showed Wembanyama being struck in the head by an egg while walking into the Spurs’ hotel following New York’s dramatic 107-106 victory in Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals. The incident came just hours after the Knicks completed the largest comeback in Finals history and moved ahead 3-1 in the series.MORE: LeBron James roasts San Antonio while explaining Knicks’ NBA Finals advantageESPN host Mike Greenberg strongly condemned the behavior during Thursday’s episode of Get Up.“For those, I don’t want to call them fans, I don’t even know what you want to say. If you’re throwing eggs at Victor Wembanyama, and the other night, if you’re beating up people, threatening or doing anything to people who are wearing Spurs jerseys, just know that you are a disgrace,” Greenberg said.He continued, saying, “You’re not disgracing the city, you’re disgracing yourself and everyone who knows you. And that should go without saying.”Greenberg also addressed reports of Spurs supporters being harassed in New York during the Finals.“We live in a world now where somehow things don’t go without saying anymore,” Greenberg said. “People are like, ‘Greeny, why haven’t you said anything about these lunatics who are beating up Spurs fans?’ Right. Does that need to be said? You’re a disgrace, and everyone around you knows it.”Victor Wembanyama and Spurs are facing pressure on and off the courtSan Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts during the fourth quarter of game four of the 2026 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe incident adds another difficult chapter to a brutal stretch for San Antonio.The Spurs appeared headed toward evening the series in Game 4 after building a 29-point lead. Instead, they collapsed in the second half as New York outscored them 58-30. OG Anunoby’s tip-in with 1.2 seconds left completed the comeback and pushed the Knicks to the brink of a title.Wembanyama finished with 24 points and 13 rebounds but missed two critical free throws late in the fourth quarter. Reflecting on the loss, he admitted the Spurs lacked urgency.“We clearly weren’t the most hungry in the second half,” Wembanyama said, who has 111 points in the series so far.The actions of a few fans should not overshadow what has been a compelling Finals. Wembanyama has averaged 27.8 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.3 blocks through four games while carrying much of San Antonio’s burden.MORE: Reason Ben Stiller is filming Knicks’ NBA Finals run on iPhone revealedAs the series shifts back to Texas, the focus should remain on basketball. The Spurs face elimination, while the Knicks stand one victory away from ending a championship drought that has lasted more than five decades.

Members of the media view the arena for the UFC Freedom 250 fights on the South Lawn of the White House, Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)2026-06-11T15:50:59Z WASHINGTON (AP) — It looks from afar more UFO than UFC.Maybe it’s the kind of contraption that has carried space aliens to the White House to force a meeting with America’s leader.But come closer and you’ll see the contours of the eight-sided cage, 30 feet (9 meters) in diameter and shaped, with careful precision, like the MMA league’s signature Octagon. That is, a STOP! sign flipped on its edge, with wire-mesh sides and padded corners fitted with different sponsors’ logos: Morgan & Morgan, Bud Light, Dodge Ram, Corona Extra and Polymarket, which identifies itself as the world’s largest prediction market.Overhead looms The Claw, a four-sided mass that arcs more than 90 feet (27 meters) into the air and features lights, speakers, thick snakes of wiring and four large screens so fans not seated right next to the Octagon can follow the cage fighting below. Think more the four-sided, metal grabby thing that tries to grasp stuffed animals at a video arcade rather than what house cats have — hence the extraterrestrial vibes. And surrounding all that are risers filled with gray folding chairs forming a temporary arena expected to seat 4,000-plus people for the seven UFC fights being staged on Sunday to celebrate the 80th birthday of President Donald Trump and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence’s signing. ‘Quite attractive to a lot of people’ For non-UFC fans, all of this might be disorienting under any circumstances. But the temporary arena is covering nearly the entirety of the White House’s South Lawn, where Marine One usually lands to ferry the president to out-of-town trips and gobs of kids scramble in the grass during the Easter Egg Roll every spring.More than $60 million and tens of thousands of hours of labor have been poured into building the arena, according to a court filing from the National Park Service, which oversees the South Lawn and is contesting a lawsuit meant to block the event. The White House says the UFC is covering the costs, though the filing states that seven agencies — including the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration — have “allocated significant resources and manpower.” Read More Fighters, their entourages and assorted support staffers are expected to take over the driveway and part of the West Wing when they’re not fighting. But they’ll enter the arena via curtained-off walkways with access to the Octagon. They, as well as ordinary attendees of Sunday’s spectacle, will have picturesque views of the White House’s Executive Residence and its storied Truman Balcony on one side and the Washington Monument towering in the distance on the other. All of it will be accentuated by swirling spotlights, and perhaps even sweat and blood pouring off the fighters pummeling each other. A packed pre-event schedule includes a press conference at the Lincoln Memorial with UFC chief Dana White and the fighters on Friday night. There’s also a ceremonial weigh-in for combatants on Saturday at the Ellipse, a park near the White House where organizers expect 120,000-plus visitors to watch Sunday night’s proceedings on large screens after winning free tickets in a lottery. Stunt athlete Travis Pastrana is also set to do a potentially death-defying backflip on a dirt bike on the White House lawn as part of the preshow extravaganza. Trump has called the Octagon and its Claw “quite attractive to a lot of people.” He’s even suggested that maybe the temporary structure could become permanent, like the Eiffel Tower, which he notes was originally built as part of the 1889 World’s Fair but then was never taken back down.Only the president knows how serious that suggestion really is. The fights will go on rain or shine — despite a lack of covering Work on the arena began May 20 and has continued for weeks. During a walk-through for reporters on Thursday, construction noises — particularly sanding and hammering — could be heard. Giant cranes were carrying materials around overhead, though that was for the $400 million ballroom that Trump is building nearby, not the UFC fight. The remaining grassy lawn around the arena, on the other sides of the White House, has been fitted with supplemental spotlights. But the grass that normally grows between the White House and the start of the risers for the arena is now gone, with nothing but dusty dirt that will need to be resodded when this is all over — unless the president really does decide to leave the arena up permanently. There’s also a large Freedom 250 logo standing between the White House and the arena. Nearby, crews removed the tables and yellow patio umbrellas from Trump’s refurbished Rose Garden and were power-washing that space, as well as the colonnade to the Oval Office, in preparation for the fights. Sunday’s event starts at 8 p.m. ET. As darkness falls, crews will illuminate The Claw in red, white and blue, and the mass of lights will offer projections that make it seem as though the entire structure has been enveloped in a twirling stars and stripes pattern. The weather forecast calls for hot and muggy conditions with thunderstorms possible. The underside of The Claw’s tower features an overhead cover that should keep the fighters reasonably dry should it rain — and Trump is also likely to watch from a protected, covered area. But everyone else would almost certainly get wet. White has vowed that even heavy lightning — when The Claw might make a conspicuous target for bolts — wouldn’t stop the show. “I don’t care if it snows,” White said. WILL WEISSERT Weissert covers the White House for The Associated Press. He is based in Washington. twitter mailto

SpaceX's mega rocket Starship prepares for a test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)2026-06-11T10:53:13Z Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX will make its debut on Wall Street Friday and both institutional and retail investors are expected to gobble up the 555.6 million shares going up for sale at $135 apiece. Musk, already the world’s richest man, could become its first trillionaire. SpaceX is likely to become the biggest IPO ever, with proceeds of around $75 billion. SpaceX hopes to become the first company to send people to Mars. In fact, part of Musk’s future compensation depends on SpaceX eventually establishing a colony of at least 1 million people on the red planet. Why SpaceX is going public nowIn a video conference on Musk’s social media platform X, he told JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon that people have suggested for the last 10 years that he take SpaceX public. He’s doing it now because the company plans to put 100,000 next-generation Starlink satellites into orbit. Deploying AI data centers in space is a “massive new growth base and you need capital for that,” he said. Going public provides access to the capital that SpaceX needs. But it also exposes it to more scrutiny from shareholders and more regulatory oversight. That includes filing quarterly financial reports, which critics say incentivizes short-term thinking over longer-term planning and creates unnecessary costs for a company. Securities regulators are currently soliciting public comment on a proposal to require public companies to file the financial reports only twice every year. How the IPO impacts the companyMusk will hold the majority of a special class of shares, giving him control over decisions related to company strategy, finances and personnel. On the latter, because of his ownership of most of these Class B shares, the only person who can fire Musk as CEO ... is Musk. The company credits Musk with being the “driving force” behind its growth, innovation and success. But what happens if Musk is no longer in the picture? SpaceX warns that the loss of Musk could disrupt its ability to execute its strategy as well as hurt its “reputation and relationships with customers, partners and other stakeholders.” Read More The company also warns that finding a replacement with the same skills and experience as Musk would be time-consuming, if not nearly impossible. As Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives wrote Wednesday, “At the end of the day Musk is SpaceX and SpaceX is Musk.” Some big investors are unhappy. Officials from pension funds for firefighters, teachers and other workers in California and New York sent a letter to SpaceX last month decrying some of the provisions in its IPO, including the “super voting shares,” mandatory arbitration of shareholder claims instead of the possibility of lawsuits and how much power Musk will hold over the company.They said they could become owners of SpaceX stock because they hold index funds, which automatically buy stocks after they get included in certain indexes. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. What could make or break SpaceXCurrently in the test phase, the gigantic reusable Starship rocket is key to SpaceX realizing Musk’s ambitions. Much of the commercial space business hinges on SpaceX developing Starship’s capability to be fully reusable and hearty enough for a quick turnaround between flights. If that doesn’t happen, SpaceX warns that putting data centers and satellites in space will take longer and cost more money, meaning it risks customers bailing on the company. Analysts say that by pioneering reusable rockets, SpaceX has established a clear lead on competitors such as Blue Origin, led by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The Starlink satellite business competes with, among others, AST SpaceMobile – which is relying on a SpaceX rocket to send its latest generation of satellites into orbit next week. The prospectus filed last week says SpaceX’s biggest potential market is the sale of business-oriented artificial intelligence products designed to transform how people get work done. It’s an opportunity SpaceX predicts would be worth $22.7 trillion if it could somehow dominate rivals like Anthropic, OpenAI and Microsoft in a highly competitive industry. But the prospectus shows no clear path to profitability for the xAI business, which merged with SpaceX earlier this year. Why Wall Street is paying attentionIf the SpaceX IPO is as successful, the stock could quickly join the Nasdaq 100, a widely followed index that tracks the 100 largest non-financial companies in the composite. That’s important because some popular funds, such as the $460 billion QQQ exchange-traded fund, mimic the index and will automatically buy whatever is listed in the index. Nasdaq recently changed its rules to allow select companies to enter the Nasdaq 100 after just 15 trading days. S&P Dow Jones Indices, on the other hand, is sticking to established and more traditional thresholds that will not allow SpaceX or other companies with gargantuan IPOs faster entry into its S&P 500 index. That means even high-profile companies will still need to wait for their stocks to trade a full 12 months before they can enter the index. Companies want to be in the S&P 500 in particular because it’s arguably the most important index on Wall Street, with trillions of dollars either mimicking it exactly or benchmarked against it. Vanguard’s VOO fund that tracks the S&P 500 has roughly $950 billion invested in it, for example.

The AI industry has been pushing a narrative that the technology is a “black box” whose inner workings are so complex that they remain unknown even to the people making it. But another black box of AI is the underlying cost of the technology, and, specifically, what the AI boom is costing people who live near massive data centers. The data centers and energy plants that power large language models and other generative AI tools are subject to contracts cloaked in non-disclosure agreements and in many cases shielded from public scrutiny on the pretext that they contain competitive information. A new report written by consultancy Synapse and commissioned by advocacy groups Earthjustice and Environmental Advocates Mississippi attempts to calculate the cost of 3 planned Amazon data centers to Entergy Mississippi customers, who share an energy utility with the centers. These hidden costs may offer a window into the broader burden borne by residents living near data centers around the country. The report estimates that residential customers of Entergy Mississippi, one of the state’s regional energy monopolies, have paid $38 million as of March 2026 for infrastructure and other costs related to data centers and will have paid $74 million by the end of the year. The average Entergy Mississippi customer is now paying at least an extra $10.60 a month to finance the data centers, the report says. It amounts to a 7 percent bill increase at a time when gas prices, choked supply chains and cuts to federal benefits are already hurting Americans. Entergy customers do not see costs for data centers highlighted separately in their bills.According to report author Ben Havumaki, this only represents the costs that Entergy Mississippi customers have paid so far, and bills will likely rise.“We know as a matter of fact that Entergy has made far more investments in service of data centers already and that the total..will be far in excess of that amount,” Havumaki told 404 Media. The assessment was made by examining public dockets filed by Entergy Mississippi as well as the company’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. While Mississippi law makes a specific cost breakdown of energy bills difficult to uncover, the authors traced a line item used to specify costs of large load energy infrastructure to make their assessment.In 2024, Amazon announced it was building two new data centers in Madison County and in 2025 announced plans for a data center in Warren County. To power the data centers, Entergy announced three new gas-fired plants in 2025 in Greenville, Ridgeland, and Vicksburg, two of which are replacing existing gas plants, as well as two solar facilities for a total cost of nearly $4 billion. Yolanda Daniel is a member of Environmental Advocates Mississippi, which helped commission the report and opposes the data center. Daniel says that the home that she grew up in is steps from the proposed gas-powered plant in Ridgeland Entergy is building. Daniel, who spent 30 years out of the state before returning to the area last year, first learned about the power plant driving down the road dividing Madison and Hines County, where she saw a sign notifying residents of a zoning board hearing. She said she and others helped pack the hearing in opposition. “We named all the harms, all the studies, all the science,” Daniel says. While the Ridgeland zoning board initially voted down Entergy’s permit to examine the land, the Board of Aldermen went ahead with the plans anyway. Ridgeland Mayor Gene McGee said, “Nobody will even know it’s there, no pollution that sort of thing, and it’ll bring a lot of business to Ridgeland and Madison County,” according to the Magnolia Tribune. Four homeowners associations, including one Daniel belongs to, filed an administrative complaint against the gas plant.Entergy’s public messaging about the data centers focuses on the company using its newfound revenue from Amazon to make grid improvements that will lower customers’ bills in the long term. Haley Fisackerly, the company’s CEO, has argued that though energy bills are going up, they are going up at a slower pace than if the data centers were not built. In a June 8 press release, Fisackerly touted the company’s previously announced “Superpower Mississippi” plan, which includes $300 million of grid improvements he says will save customers money by, “improving reliability and reducing power outages through stronger materials, tree trimming measures and technology-driven distribution network upgrades.” He says the improvements are funded by Amazon and Avaio, which constructs data centers. Fisackerly says that this is in addition to $600 million grid improvements the company already had planned. The announcement assumes that Entergy would have replaced the two power plants regardless and makes hard-to-prove assertions about energy efficiency.But the fact that Entergy Mississippi is already charging its customers for the construction of those energy plants is more straightforward, according to the Synapse report.While Entergy Mississippi’s rate increases are typically restricted to 4 percent a year under state law, a 2024 law called SB2001 allows the company to raise rates in excess of that to fund the construction of energy plants that power data centers.The fees show up in public dockets as an “interim facilities rate adjustment,” which is how Synapse reached its calculation of costs to residential customers. $8.7 million in fees associated with the Delta Blues Advanced Power Station were charged to residential customers, as are $46.7 million in costs related to data center projects whose specifics are unknown.While in theory costs other than data center infrastructure could be present in this line item, “We see no evidence that that is occurring,” the author of the report, Ben Havumaki, told 404 Media. That’s because this line item was zeroed out before Entergy Mississippi began making its data center energy buildout, he said.Entergy Mississippi shares a parent company with Entergy Louisiana, which approved three new gas plants last year to power Meta’s data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana. Entergy Louisiana has now pitched an additional seven gas plants to serve Meta’s facility. The report also takes issue with a March claim by Entergy that agreements with data centers will actually be saving customers in three states (Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana) $5 billion over the next two decades. Synapse says “it is possible that data centers could be offsetting some or all of their incremental costs through separate financial arrangements with Entergy,” but there is no way of confirming this because filings between Entergy and data center operators are kept confidential. Mississippi is a uniquely difficult state to verify Entergy’s claims that customer’s bills are being subsidized by Amazon or other tech companies. SB2001 cloaks the public service commission’s review of energy contracts from public view, designating them “a trade secret” and exempting them from the state’s freedom of information law. The law limits the Mississippi Public Service Commission’s role in making sure that data centers are distributing their costs evenly to energy utility customers. It also exempts state agencies from competitive bidding requirements when courting data centers. This means, “they can just put the shovel in the ground and start building themselves immediately without proving that they are the least costly option,” Havumaki says.When Entergy says Amazon’s data center is saving customers money, “It's basically [saying] trust us, we've done the math and know that it works out better for you,” Havumaki says. Havumaki also notes that infrastructure costs related to data centers have skyrocketed, so Amazon has an incentive to hide costs.The 2024 law also makes it impossible for the public service commission to adjust how much Amazon pays for its energy bills later on. According to the law, public utilities can enter into agreements with a large customer, “without reference to the rates” set according to the state’s public utilities statute. ” SB2001 also says the utility can’t alter or edit the agreement between Entergy and the data center customer later on.According to the report, this means, “once the Entergy-[Amazon]contract sets a cost allocation, that allocation is locked in. The Commission cannot revisit it even if future rate proceedings reveal that it is unfair to other customers. “ While the commission can’t change rates that Amazon or other tech companies pay for energy, it still has the ability to stop charging residents for energy plant construction related to data centers. But Havumaki is skeptical this would happen.“It's highly unlikely that any commissioner would disallow recovery of any of these investments, because there is so much momentum behind this whole process,” he says.When reached for comment about the Synapse report, a spokesperson for Entergy sent a statement saying that, “Entergy Mississippi customers are not subsidizing data centers — they’re benefitting from them. Independent regulators in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana confirm that data centers are paying their fair share, plus additional benefits for customers.” When it comes to Entergy’s hidden contracts with Amazon and other tech companies, the spokesperson said, “Customer confidentiality doesn’t reduce accountability. The facts are clear: Technology investment is making power in Mississippi more reliable, more affordable, and more competitive.” The company did not answer any specific questions about the interim facilities rate adjustment that shows residential customers are paying for data center infrastructure.Amazon commissioned a report on the costs of its data centers to customers. The report found that Amazon was paying, “sufficient or surplus net revenue,” meaning that Entergy could be using its profits to subsidize other customers, but that “the use of this additional margin is at the utility’s discretion.”The Synapse report ends with a recommendation that Entergy commit that data centers’ energy needs not be subsidized by other customers. To make the process more transparent, Entergy should have a standard contract with customer protection provisions that it uses for data center customers. To prevent “stranded assets,” or costs incurred by customers for infrastructure that ends up abandoned or unused, the report recommends charging a minimum rate to the data center regardless of use, as well as “exit fees” if the data center closes. “These are really uncontroversial, widely adopted provisions to ensure a baseline of customer protection, a baseline of transparency, and actually hold Entergy's feet to the fire,” Havumaki said.

Nature, Published online: 11 June 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10784-1Author Correction: Plasticity and language in the anaesthetized human hippocampus

Her decades of work on Huntington’s disease helped lead to the creation of a genetic test for the devastating condition. Why didn’t she take it herself?

The United States men’s national team begins its World Cup on Friday night against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium (9 p.m. ET, FOX), and the opening game’s result has long been an omen for the team’s hopes of advancing.In 10 previous World Cups with a group stage, the U.S. has advanced all six times after winning or drawing its opener, and been eliminated in the group stage all four times after losing the opener.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentThe U.S. is a -110 favorite to win the match, with Paraguay at +320 and the tie at +240 odds at sportsbooks. The United States is not only the favorite to win Group D (+150), but is an overwhelming favorite (-625) to qualify from the group and make it to the Round of 32.The forgiving new format with eight of 12 third-place teams advancing means that the initial result is less critical, but the U.S. still wants to win the group or at least finish second to get a more favorable matchup in the knockout round. With that in mind, here are two bets I like for the U.S. opener:United States over 0.5 first-half goals (+100)The U.S. enters the tournament having played 11 consecutive games against 2026 World Cup teams. In eight of those games, the U.S. scored in the first half. That lines up with the underlying numbers and the eye test, which has seen the Americans be aggressive early on. The U.S. had 11 first-half shots against Germany and eight against each of Senegal, Portugal and Belgium this year. More than half of the U.S. lineup will likely have been on the 2022 World Cup roster, and the team has talked about being more aggressive now that half the squad has World Cup experience. I expect the Americans to go right at Paraguay from the opening kick, creating plenty of chances for a first-half goal. Both teams to score (+110)While the U.S. has attacked well against strong opposition, the defense also has not been stellar. In the aforementioned 11 games vs teams as this World Cup, the U.S. has had one shutout, in September against a Japan team that didn’t have all its regular starters.The U.S. beat Paraguay 2-1 in November, with 1.1 expected goals to Paraguay’s 0.7 on eight shots apiece. A defensive-minded Paraguay may try to keep this game tight, but an aggressive style from the U.S. should open it up. Plus Chris Richards, the best U.S. center back, probably won’t play as he continues to recover from an ankle injury.If I had to pick a score, I’d go with a repeat of last year and a 2-1 U.S. win. I’d rather play both teams to score though, especially getting plus money.

Green Bay Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur watches practice during the sixth day of training camp on July 29, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis. | Sarah Kloepping/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Thursday is the final day of minicamp for the Green Bay Packers, who have another week of Organized Training Activities left in the offseason program. However, head coach Matt LaFleur has decided to give his veterans a break this spring, sending them home a week early for the summer.Ahead of Thursday’s practice, LaFleur spoke to the media and informed them that only the team’s rookies will be required to stay in Green Bay through next week. Veterans will instead be dismissed for the summer following today’s practice, having gone through just two weeks of OTA practices plus minicamp. It’s a new approach for LaFleur’s Packers, but so is scheduling minicamp for the second-to-last week of the program instead of the final week.This may have to do with the spring program stretching farther into June than usual. With the NFL’s season starting later in 2026, training camps are likely to be pushed back a bit later, but that also means that spring practices can go all the way through June 19. Hopefully that extra week off for Green Bay’s veterans finds them further refreshed and ready to go when training camp does begin.That date will come just under seven weeks from today. LaFleur also informed the media in attendance that the report date for veterans to show up for training camp will be Tuesday, July 28, with the team’s first practice of camp coming the following day on July 29. These dates fit nicely with the team’s Shareholders Meeting, which was recently announced to be taking place on Monday, July 27.The Packers have not yet revealed a training camp practice schedule, only announcing that the annual Family Night event will take place on Friday, August 7. However, expect most of the team’s open practices to come during the first two weeks of camp, as the team has road preseason games scheduled for August 13 (at Pittsburgh) and August 21 (at Denver) before returning home for their exhibition finale. The final week of the preseason will feature joint practices with the Arizona Cardinals, coached by LaFleur’s brother Mike, before the two teams face off in the last game of the summer on August 28.

Ever since it was first announced nearly a year ago, the idea of a UFC event on the White House lawn juxtaposed against the start of the World Cup has not sat quite right.On one hand, you have a sporting event being marketed as a celebration of America’s 250th birthday, promising to be coded in politics and unlikely to reflect the sour mood of the country.On the other, you have a sporting event that has been a question mark for the world ever since President Trump returned to office in January of 2025. Amid reports of nightmares at airports and ICE raids, would foreign soccer fans find it too difficult or too intimidating to experience what this big, complex country has to offer? Would being on the world’s biggest sporting stage be a mirror for our national discontent or showcase our strengths?Two very different events: One designed for the president to tell us how great we are, the other exposing our fears that in the eyes of the world, we’re not the country we used to be.But a surprising phenomenon has sprouted this week as the start of the World Cup draws closer and closer. Those who have arrived from overseas, touring our big cities and small towns, have done a better job reminding us what an awesome, interesting and welcoming country this is than we could ever do ourselves.Across social media, our foreign guests are expressing their awe for our massive football stadiums, delighting in plates of barbecue, enjoying iconic breakfast chains and being wowed by truck stops. Normally a pit of bile, opening the X app has been a celebration of Americana through the eyes of foreigners who are for the first time experiencing all the great little things we take for granted.A group of German guys have been roadtripping from Atlanta to the Gulf Coast and beyond, discovering Waffle House (yeah, the food really is great) and Buc-ee’s (so big, so unnecessary, but so well-run) and the Auburn War Eagle flying around Jordan-Hare Stadium during the friendly between Argentina and Iceland (it’s an awesome stadium, but that’s just a standard Saturday for college football fans).“This is the most ‘The European mind can’t comprehend this moment of my life,’” wrote @FreddyLA7, who has gained hundreds of thousands of followers on X since arriving in the U.S.I’ve also been following a young Swedish woman named Elsa, who landed first in Indianapolis and discovered ranch dressing.“Why did no one tell me ranch sauce is like crack? EUROPE WE NEED RANCH ASAP,” @elsathora wrote while calling a roadside diner meal “the best food ever.” Now she’s in San Francisco trying cioppino and commenting on the beauty of fire trucks.There’s a Scottish guy documenting a trip through Texas being welcomed by a pitmaster who wanted to show off his work. There’s yet another German whose eyes are being opened by the stereotype-busting cleanliness and architectural beauty of Chicago. There’s a Brit in Florida posting about stadiums and Big Gulps. There's a Japanese fan in Nashville calling the neon lights of the honky-tonks "a view so stunning it feels like a lie."I was also moved this week by video clips from an Algerian television station following their national team at its training base in Lawrence, Kansas. From young American kids waving Algerian flags to older folks telling a reporter they didn’t know a thing about Algeria but wanted to make sure people watching back home knew their team was going to be embraced by the local community, that’s the America that should make us all proud to be co-hosting this global event.Maybe the World Cup is exactly what this country needed to feel a little better about ourselves, if for no other reason than a reminder that despite our problems and our politics, we have a lot of good people and a lot of really cool stuff at our fingertips. Seeing it through the eyes of others has cleansed the soul in a way UFC White House lawn fights, concerts and parades never will.For a long time now, no matter which person or political party has occupied the White House, polls consistently show the majority of Americans believe the country is on the wrong track. That may well be true in a lot of categories.But a big, corporate 250th birthday national party and all the bells and whistles that go along with it will never do a better job convincing us how amazing our country is than a handful of random European soccer fans documenting their experiences on social media. Maybe some of them are pandering or engagement farming, but who cares?Just look at the numbers: These posts are getting millions of views and thousands of comments, mostly from Americans who are like, “Yeah, that’s us!” and flooding their feeds with recommendations.Because ultimately, despite the current government’s slant toward isolationism, I believe most Americans want to be liked. We want to show visitors that we are more than the scary headlines they read in their newspapers. We want to introduce them to the uniquely American things we enjoy because we hope they’ll enjoy them, too. That’s just how we are, and this World Cup can be a turning point not only in how others view us, but how we view ourselves.Inevitably, there will be some warts shown, too. If reports on ticket sales and hotel bookings are correct, the number of visitors may be lower than what FIFA initially expected. There could be ugly incidents at stadiums, reports of foreigners being harassed, visa issues, who knows.That’s America, too. In a place this big, this diverse and sometimes this unwieldy, there is no such thing as perfection. In the immortal words of Kevin Durant at the 2024 Olympics: “A lot of bull**** happens in our country. But a lot of great things happen, too.”As the World Cup begins, there are plenty of reasons to reflect on America’s place in the world at the moment. There’s a lot going on domestically and internationally to cause stress at home and frustration abroad.But when the party’s over next month, those who came will have a better understanding of who we are and those of us who meet them in bars or restaurants or stadiums will see ourselves more clearly. That’s how international sport at its best is supposed to work. It’s the best birthday present America could get.

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Romello Height was already 25 years old when the 49ers drafted him in the third round this year, after a very long college career that saw him initially commit to Miami, then enroll at Auburn, then transfer to USC, transfer again to Georgia Tech, and transfer one final time to Texas Tech. Height has been around the block.All that experience has had Height in a lot of environments, and 49ers defensive line coach Kris Kocurek is liking how prepared Height looks in offseason practices.“Just the speed, athleticism, his explosion on get-off, and then, just natural pass rush ability,” Kocurek said, via NBCSportsBayArea.com. “It’s been really impressive so far. We’re not in pads or anything yet, so that’ll be the determining factor for the whole thing, but just the way he moves.”Kocurek said Height looks the edge rusher part.“At the end of the day, we drafted him to rush the passer, and he’s really excelled at that,” Kocurek said. “His get-off has been really, really good, being able to put tackles behind the eight ball with his get-off and making them set differently and protect differently and getting on them quickly.”The 49ers think the well-traveled Height has landed in the right place in San Francisco.“Just the work ethic that he brings in,” Kocurek said. “He works really, really hard. The energy that he plays with. Just the whole package. Excited about him.”

As we kick off June’s Pride activities, many cis-hetero Christian nationalists are feeling dejected. So, in their attempts to reclaim the month, many Republican governors have pushed “counterprogramming” by labeling June as “Nuclear Family Month” in Indiana and Tennessee, “Strong Families Month” in Alabama, and “Fidelity Month” in Utah and Arkansas. This is nothing less than a continued assault on LGBTQ+ people and our families. The people who have spearheaded this battle are the same ones who have initiated more than 1,000 anti-transgender bills in the last year alone while also attempting to destroy marriage equality. Related Vandals tore their Pride flag in two. Activists turned it into a surprising symbol of resilience. These are the supporters of the Trump administration’s attacks on DEI initiatives in the U.S. government, schools, and private industry, the ones behind the banning of books and other LGBTQ+ curricular materials. But the assault on Pride Month is nothing new. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today In 2020, for example, the town council of Emo, Ontario, population 1,333, voted 3-2 to reject a resolution to recognize June as Pride Month. Voting against the proposal were two councilors and the town mayor, Harold McQuaker. Their reasoning: It would be unfair because there is no straight pride. “We have one flagpole and there’s no flag being flown for the other side of the coin,” McQuaker said at the town council meeting on the resolution. “There’s no flags being flown for the straight people.” So, would it be likewise unfair to commemorate October as LGBTQ+ History Month, or mid-September through mid-October as Hispanic Heritage Month, or November as Native American Heritage Month, or February as Black History Month, or March as Women’s History Month, or May as Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month? Would it satisfy the right if the United States dedicated a month – or, better yet, all months – as heterosexual cisgender Christian nationalist white supremacist months, as they have been since white Europeans first set foot in the Americas? And why has it always been that way? Well, in our patriarchal heteronationalist cissexist white supremacist Christian nationalist hemisphere, the lives of white heterosexual cisgender Christian males have mattered more than any other. They are accorded an entire array of socially constructed privileges held back from all others based solely on the condition of birth. The vote in Emo, Ontario, amounted to a form of backlash. New ideas and the movements they spark tend to be, at least initially, framed as challenges to the power structure and enemies of the status quo. Forces that seek to maintain the status quo often fight to exterminate progressive movements through intense and often violent backlash. Backlash on campus Imagine today is your first day at college. You have been looking forward to this day since you can remember. You’re excited about living away from home for the first time and experiencing new people and adventures, but your feelings are tinged with a nagging anxiety from which you can’t seem to escape. For quite some time, you have held a secret deep within the recesses of your soul. Here in your new college environment, you don’t yet know whom you can trust. Can you tell your dormitory roommate? If you do, what will happen to you? Will your roommate tell others? Will you be thrown out of your room, or even worse, will you have to leave school? What if your parents find out? Will they disown you? Will they cut you off financially, forcing you to drop out of school? What about your prospective professors and classmates? If they find out, how will they react? How will this affect your chances for future employment? Does your school have any resources and support systems? What, if anything, does your school have available to make your transition to college less worrisome and more accommodating? Overall, what will campus life hold for you? You have had heterosexual feelings since before you entered puberty, and your gender identity has always matched your sex assigned at birth. But because you live in a hometown and a larger society that doesn’t understand or even rejects your sexuality and gender identity, you hide away in a closet of denial and dread, fearing to come out into the light of day. Now you have a chance to make a new start in your home away from home. These are the reasons you decided to attend this particular college in this particular state. Back when you were researching schools, you came across an article focusing on an action taken by the Texas House of Representatives, proposed by then-state Rep. Wayne Christian (R), who in 2011 passed precedent-setting legislation by a margin of 110 to 24 requiring all public colleges and universities in the state with a student center on “alternative” sexuality to provide equal funding and resources to maintain so-called “Family and Traditional Values Centers” as well. According to Rep. Christian’s amendment to the Texas budget for higher education: “…It is the intent of the Legislature that an institution of higher education shall use an amount of appropriated funds to support a family and traditional values center for students of the institution that is not less than any amount of appropriated funds used by the institution to support a gender and sexuality center or other center for students focused on gay, lesbian, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, transsexual, transgender, gender questioning, or other gender identity issues.” Christian admitted that he would rather have seen the existing “alternative” sexuality centers defunded, but he decided that the bill had a better chance of passing by adding the traditional values centers. He said the new centers could now sponsor programs promoting chastity and marriage between one man and one woman. Wow, it’s about time for the mandating of these centers, don’t you think? They can even sponsor programming for heterosexual and cisgender students to find and meet one another. They can invite scholars to campus to present information on the heterosexual and cisgender experience and help remove diverse materials from the curriculum. They can also establish speakers bureaus to train heterosexual and cisgender students to talk about their experiences in classrooms as a way to counter the stereotypes, scapegoating, fear, and ignorance surrounding their lives. With these Family and Traditional Values Centers, maybe we will finally see greater understanding of heterosexual and cisgender lifestyles. (In reality, nothing ever came of the proposal after it passed the state House. It did not become law.). With this understanding, we might find fewer young people forced to live in a closet of fear; we might see fewer hate crimes against people simply because they are cis-hetero; and we may witness students being able to concentrate more on academics rather than on physical and emotional safety concerns. We might also find closer family relationships, greater chances of career success, and a new generation experiencing higher self-esteem and developing positive identities at earlier ages than ever before. These centers will give students the support and guidance they need to be proudly heterosexual and cisgender. What a great and needed service. Texas certainly is on the right track! Other states should take note, or they will be left behind in this new and exciting trend. And since we already have October set as LGBTQ History Month, I imagine someone in the Texas legislature will soon propose an HSC (Heterosexual, Straight, & Cisgender) History Month. By bringing heterosexuality and cisgender identities out of the closet, we will see happier and less emotionally distraught people who will, for the first time in recorded history, finally lead productive and successful lives. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

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Oct 12, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner (54) before the start of the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images NBC Sports Bay Area’s Jennifer Lee Chan caught up with San Francisco 49ers All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner at his youth football camp in San Mateo earlier this week.Warner spoke about the young players on the 49ers roster and a few who could potentially break out in 2026: “We’ve got a lot of guys who are due to make that jump on the defensive side. You talk about Upton Stout, and the things that he brought to our defense at the nickel position. Love his game. Love who he is as a person. Can’t wait to see what he does going into this year.”Last week, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris spoke about the influence Warner had on Stout, citing how he’s always around the second-year pro, helping him think and behave in the same ways Warner does. Morris said, “Can’t get Stout to smile, but he has such a serious demeanor, and he’s picking up all things from Fred.”Warner continued: “A three-headed monster at D-line in Alfred Collins, CJ West, Mykel coming off injury. I think all three of those guys have an opportunity to really take a next step. Mykel, even coming off the ACL, I think his mindset, the way that he looks right now, I think he’ll be great when he does come back; I think all those guys are going to do really good this year.”Those three were incredible run defenders last season. The 49ers run defense allowed a 42% success rate and a 4.9% explosive run rate with Williams on the field. When he wasn’t playing, those numbers skyrocketed to 52.9% and 11.8%.Collins and West taking on and holding their ground against double teams last year were one of the bright spots along a defense that didn’t have many. It’s a sign that those two can be building blocks in the middle.Speaking of the middle, Warner shared his thoughts about Osa Odighizuwa:“Osa’s been great. I think everybody’s kind of sung his praises because of how he’s come in, and he’s worked, and just been steady Eddie, Mr. Consistent. I think that’s awesome. That’s what we need for our team, and especially at that position. And I think he’ll do a great job. I’ve heard nothing but great things, and seen nothing but great things when he was in Dallas, and being disruptive on the inside, and we’re going to need that in a big way for what we’re trying to do on defense.”Odighizuwa on his own would’ve been a game-changer. Odighizuwa paired with three terrific run defenders complements everybody we’ve mentioned, and gives Raheem Morris one of the deepest groups the 49ers have had along the defensive line in a few seasons.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off this week, and U.S. viewers have several ways to watch the matches through live TV, streaming services and even a few free options.Here's what to know.When does the 2026 World Cup start?The tournament begins Thursday, June 11, 2026, and runs through Sunday, July 19.Opening day includes Mexico vs. South Africa (3 p.m. ET, Mexico City Stadium) and South Korea vs. Czechia (10 p.m. ET, Guadalajara Stadium), according to the official FIFA schedule.How to live stream the 2026 World Cup for free. See trial optionsMost matches will air on FOX and FS1, according to USA TODAY.All 104 tournament matches will air live across FOX and FS1, according to Fox, with every match streaming live and on-demand within both the FOX One and the FOX Sports apps. Per NBC, live‑TV streaming services that carry Fox and FS1 in English include:YouTube TV: Includes FOX and FS1 with a 10 day free trial.Fubo: Sports‑focused bundle with Fox and FS1, plus DVR. Sometimes offers a 5‑day free trial.DirecTV (stream/MySports): Includes FOX and FS1. 5-day free trial available for new customers.Hulu + Live TV and others: Includes FOX and FS1. Hulu + Live TV offers a 3-day free trial for new and eligible returning subscribers.Spanish-language streaming optionsSpanish-language coverage will air on Telemundo and Universo. Telemundo will broadcast 92 matches on its over-the-air network, with the remaining 12 on Universo.What's the World Cup schedule? See weekend dates, times, USA matchesAccording to FOX, here's the lineup of matches through Sunday, June 14.Group A: Mexico vs. South Africa: 3 p.m. ET, Mexico City StadiumGroup A: South Korea vs. Czechia: 10 p.m. ET, Guadalajara StadiumJune 12Group B: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina: 3 p.m. ET, Toronto StadiumGroup D: USA vs. Paraguay: 9 p.m. ET, Los Angeles StadiumJune 13Group B: Qatar vs. Switzerland: 3 p.m. ET, San Francisco Bay StadiumGroup C: Brazil vs. Morocco: 6 p.m. ET, New York New Jersey StadiumGroup C: Haiti vs. Scotland: 9 p.m. ET, Boston StadiumGroup D: Australia vs. Türkiye: 12 a.m. ET, BC Place VancouverJune 14Group F: Tunisia vs. Sweden: 10 p.m. ET, Monterrey StadiumGroup E: Germany vs. Curaçao: 1 p.m. ET, Houston StadiumGroup F: Netherlands vs. Japan: 4 p.m. ET, Dallas StadiumGroup E: Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador: 7 p.m. ET, Philadelphia StadiumThe United States men's team opens its 2026 World Cup on June 12, and has three games scheduled on June 12, June 19, and June 25, according to ESPN.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Free ways to watch the 2026 World Cup live in the US

Artistic gymnast Ruby Evans (left), swimmer Matt Richards (centre) and para-athlete Funmi Oduwaiye (right) are hoping for success with Team Wales in Glasgow [Getty Images]Across the globe athletes from 74 countries and territories are preparing for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.The 23rd iteration of the Games will be leaner, featuring just 10 sports compared to 20 in Birmingham four years ago.The sports include athletics and Para-athletics, swimming and Para-swimming, artistic gymnastics, track cycling and Para-track cycling, netball, weightlifting and Para-powerlifting, boxing, judo, bowls and Para-bowls, 3x3 basketball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball.With over 100 athletes set to be named in Team Wales next week, BBC Sport Wales caught up with a few athletes hoping to wear red this summer.'This one's really important'Matt Richards won two golds and a silver medal at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships in April [Getty Images]Double Olympic champion swimmer Matt Richards' medal collection would be the envy of most.To add to his golds at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, he has topped the podium multiple times at World and European Championships too.But after a quartet of fourth-placed finishes four years ago, Richards has his eyes on completing the set."Not just a medal, I want the gold," he said."Commonwealths in 2022 didn't go the way I'd hoped. I wasn't performing as well as I'd have liked to that year. It's that one that's really gotten away and it happens to be one that's the only opportunity I get to do, racing for Wales."So it's one that's close to my heart and one that I'm going to be going at pretty hard this year."I'm in great shape. We had the British Championships which went really well. I had two golds and a silver there and so gearing up well for a busy summer."I think the main thing for me is put on that Welsh dragon, get out there and bring back some gold."'Competing for home will be a special feeling'Ruby Evans won gold in the all-around title at the 2026 Artistic Gymnastics British Championships [Getty Images]Teenager Ruby Evans has had a brilliant 12 months.In October 2025, she won silver in the floor exercise at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Indonesia.And in March this year she became the first Welsh athlete in more than 50 years to win the all-around title at the British Championships in Liverpool.This will be Evans' first Commonwealth Games, having not quite been old enough to compete in Birmingham in 2022."I was three months off my birthday last time, but I'm excited because I've always wanted to do the Commonwealth Games," said the 19-year-old."I've always wanted to do something for Wales because everything's always Great Britain, which is obviously amazing, but I think just competing for my home country will be such a special feeling."Things are going well, I did the British Championships and won that, so that gave me confidence."I would say [there is] a bit of pressure, but I wouldn't say it's too much because I don't like to put pressure on myself. I just like to go with the flow and then whatever happens, happens."'I'm looking forward to the vibes'Funmi Oduwaiye won a bronze medal in the F44 shot put in the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi [Getty Images]Funmi Oduwaiye took up para-athletics in 2022 and by 2023 had made her debut in the F64 discus and F64 shot put at the World Para Athletics Championships in Paris. In October 2025, the former Wales Under-18s basketball player won bronze in the F44 shot put in New Delhi. The 23-year-old is planning on competing in both her preferred throwing events in Scotland this summer and is excited to make her Commonwealth debut. "I'm looking forward to competing and representing my smaller nation of Wales rather than the whole of Great Britain," Oduwaiye said. "The fact that I know my team-mates more closely, train alongside some of them, I'm family friends with some of them."I'm looking forward to the vibes, I'm looking forward to the energy and what the rest of the Commonwealth can bring."'Gold is the minumum I'll be taking this time'Owain Harris-Allan won a bronze medal on his Commonwealth debut in 2022 [Getty Images]Owain Harris-Allan was just 18 in Birmingham four years ago and admits he exceeded his expectations by winning a bantamweight bronze."It was all a bit of a flash," he said."I came through the back door, it didn't really hit me until a couple of months after, but it was a great feeling."After narrowly missing qualification to box for Team GB at the Paris Olympics two years ago, the now 22-year-old feels confident of his chances in Glasgow. "Gold is the minimum I'll be taking this time," Harris-Allan said. "It's a lot of pressure, but pressure makes diamonds, so I like the pressure."In the last four years I've had a lot of experience. I'm grateful to be in this position right now."I'm looking forward to doing it again and being on top of the podium."'Mum, book the tickets!'Libi Phillips plays for Cardiff Met Archers in the British Wheelchair Basketball Women's Premier League. [BBC Sport]After missing out on qualification initially, 3x3 wheelchair basketball player Libi Phillips and her team-mates were left with a nervous wait to see if Wales had secured a wildcard spot. When the message came through to confirm Wales' place in Glasgow, it was action stations for the Pembrokeshire athlete and her family."As soon as we found out, straight on the phone - "Mum, book the tickets!" - so they're coming, mum and dad," Phillips said. "I'm just feeling happy to just be excited now."In Birmingham in 2022 and in Glasgow this year they're doing a 3x3 format."It's basically half a court as opposed to the full court so it cuts out the transition. It's a much quicker game and there's always something going on." 'To be given the opportunity is a privilege'Ross Owen (centre) won a bowling bronze medal in the men's triples at the 2022 Commonwealth Games alongside Owain Dando (left) and Jonathan Tomlinson (right) [Getty Images]Ross Owen is something of a veteran, hoping to compete in his third Commonwealth Games in lawn bowls this summer. Despite competing on the Gold Coast in 2018 and winning bronze in the men's triples in Birmingham four years ago, Owen feels the same pride competing for his nation. "It means everything," he said. "Growing up as a child, watching heroes of mine play in various sports whether it be football, rugby or even bowls."Just watching them and being inspired to be one of them, and now to be given the opportunity to do it is a privilege. "It's always good to play at a home games so I'm really excited for the challenge."

The San Francisco 49ers will play in Mexico City in Week 11, and history suggests the road back won't be easy.San Francisco is one of five teams scheduled to play an international game in 2026 that is directly followed by a game against a team coming off a bye. For the 49ers, that means returning to Santa Clare to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 12 — a Seattle team that will have had an extra week to rest and prepare.Based on the four previous instances of this exact scheduling scenario, the team coming off an international game is 0-4 straight up and 0-3-1 against the spread, according to CBS Sports' John Breech. Those teams averaged just 15.25 points per game and were outscored 70-30 over the first three quarters. While this is a small sample size, the lack of wins or points is striking.This historical record includes the 2011 Buffalo Bills, who went to Toronto in Week 8 and were blown out 27-11 the following week by a Jets team coming off a bye, despite entering as 2.5-point favorites. In 2016, the Houston Texans played a Monday night game in Mexico City in Week 11 and returned to face the (then) San Diego Chargers, who were coming off a bye, and lost 21-13 as underdogs. In 2021, the Miami Dolphins traveled to London in Week 6, then lost on a last-second field goal to the Atlanta Falcons the following week. And this past season, the Cleveland Browns went to London in Week 5 and were held to under 250 yards of offense in a 23-9 loss to Pittsburgh in Week 6.It doesn't help that of all these instances, only the Bills actually won their International game.The 49ers' situation carries its own unique challenges. The Mexico City game is the Sunday night game, meaning neither team will get back to their facility until Monday. It's part of a broader travel burden that will define San Francisco's 2026 season. The 49ers are set to log more than 38,000 miles of travel this year, the most in the league. That includes the 15,738-mile trip to Melbourne, Australia, for a Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL's first game on Australian soil.Despite all that mileage, San Francisco sits at net-zero in Sharp Football's rest edge analysis, meaning the rest advantages and disadvantages they hold over opponents cancel out across the full schedule. They're traveling the most and getting no cushion for it.Apart from the dynamics of a divisional battle, the Week 12 matchup against Seattle could test how the 49ers are holding up against their well-traveled schedule.This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: History suggests 49ers face uphill battle after Mexico City trip

Don't mess with Texas. (Tech.)The office of Texas attorney general (and Senate candidate) Ken Paxton has informed the Big 12 that any effort to sanction Texas Tech for respecting a court order restoring the eligibility of quarterback Brendan Sorsby "would be unlawful and would expose the Conference to substantial liability."The letter, written by attorney Thomas D. York and posted by Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports, explains that a group punishment of Texas Tech "would be a per se violation of federal and state antitrust laws — a naked horizontal agreement among competitors to disadvantage Texas Tech by cutting off access to the resources it needs to compete."York also contends that the Big 12 "would also face liability for breach of contract and tortious interference." The letter concludes with a clear warning — "should the Big 12 seek to sanction Texas Tech for acting consistent with the Order, Texas Tech will pursue all legal avenues to protect its interests and those of Texas Tech's student-athletes."Regardless of whether anyone agrees or disagrees with the bare-bones, abracadabra ruling from Judge Ken Curry, the order restored Sorsby's eligibility. Any effort to punish Texas Tech for complying with the order invites a legal challenge.Like it or not, Sorsby is entitled to play. Texas Tech is entitled to play him. Any effort to pressure Texas Tech not to play him or to punish Texas Tech for doing so obviously creates a separate legal issue.

The targeted countries host sprawling American military bases and thousands of personnel at a time when the United States is waging war against Iran.

Chad Smith, the orchestra’s president, admitted missteps in terminating Andris Nelsons’s contract but stood by the decision and won’t step down.

Jett Lawrence answered most of the questions surrounding his health last week in the Hangtown Motocross Classic with a sweep of the motos and overall win. He limped on and off the podium, but was not nearly as hindered when he walked into the post-race media scrum. Hunter Lawrence needs to provide some answers this week at Thunder Valley Motocross Park in Lakewood, Colorado, in Round 20 of the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX), Round 3 of Pro Motocross, as to whether he can challenge his brother head-to-head.Hangtown was likely a preview of what motocross fans can expect in the coming weeks. Jett rocketed out to significant leads in both motos and then adjusted his pace for minimal strain on his ankle. Even at 80 or 90 percent, he is simply that much faster than the competition.Hangtown was the 19th time that Jett has finished 1-1. It was also his 25th overall victory in 29 starts, an overall winning ratio of 86 percent. By comparison, the GOAT Ricky Carmichael won 22 of his first 29 starts (76 percent).Hunter showed patience, perhaps too much so, as he followed Haiden Deegan for half of the first moto before assuming the second position. He earned the holeshot during the second moto before a red flag gave Jett a second chance to lead the field. Deegan rounded out the podium after finishing third in both motos. He started with the leaders once, and barely inside the top 10 during Moto 2. Those riders should dominate the box again this week.The Thunder Valley National has run uninterrupted since 2005, and its recent history has been dominated by Jett, who has three overall wins in three starts. During last week's post-race media scrum, he refused to commit to how the Colorado track surface would affect his ankle, but it's unlikely he will struggle. He also won the 2022 250 overall and finished second in that division in 2021.Last week, Justin Cooper crashed hard on the first lap of the second moto when Mikkel Haarup laid his bike down in his path. Cooper's fans hope that he mounts up this week, because this is his best venue, according to WeWentFast.com. In two 450 starts, he's earned one overall podium and stood on the box three times in four motos.Last week was the first time in his 450 career that Cooper missed a moto.Lucas Coenen leads a brigade of visiting international riders that will highlight all three classes. His brother, Sacha Coenen, will race in the 250 class. Lotte van Drunen will race in the WMX Series this week.Both Coenen brothers are coming off overall victories in their last Grand Prix in Latvia.Lucas is the current MXGP points leader by 62 over Jeffrey Herlings.250 NotesLevi Kitchen scored the overall victory last week with second-place finishes in both motos. Those strong rides elevated him to second in the championship standings, and he hopes to do something he has never done: affix the red plate to the front of his bike.Kitchen has a solid chance. He finished third three times in the past four 250 Thunder Valley rounds, including last year when he crossed under the checkers behind Chance Hymas and Deegan.Seth Hammaker and Cole Davies won the motos at Hangtown.Sacha Coenen is the current MX2 points leader, 37 points ahead of Simon Längenfelder.2026 SuperMotocross Top-10 finishers450sHunter Lawrence (6 wins, 14 podiums, 16 top-fives, 18 top-10s) [5 Moto wins]Ken Roczen (5 wins, 11 podiums, 15 top-fives, 17 top-10s) [3 Moto wins] *Eli Tomac (4 wins, 9 podiums, 11 top-fives, 12 top-10s) [1 Moto win]Chase Sexton (2 wins, 3 podiums, 9 top-fives, 15 top-10s)Cooper Webb (1 win, 8 podiums, 12 top-fives, 16 top-10s)Jett Lawrence (1 win, 2 podiums, 2 top-fives, 2 top-10s) [2 Moto wins]Justin Cooper (4 podiums, 10 top-fives, 15 top-10s) [2 Moto wins]Jorge Prado (3 podiums, 5 top-fives, 10 top-10s)Malcolm Stewart (1 podium, 3 top-fives, 12 top-10s)Haiden Deegan (1 podium, 2 top-fives, 2 top-10) Joey Savatgy (4 top-fives, 11 top-10s)Justin Hill (2 top-fives, 7 top-10s)Jason Anderson (2 top-fives, 3 top-10s) Dylan Ferrandis (1 top-five, 13 top-10s)Garrett Marchbanks (1 top-five, 8 top-10s)Aaron Plessinger (7 top-10s)Shane McElrath (5 top-10s)Christian Craig (4 top-10s)Dean Wilson (3 top-10s)RJ Hampshire (3 top-10s)Colt Nichols (2 top-10s)Justin Barcia (2 top-10s)Jordon Smith (1 top-10)Mikkel Haarup (1 top-10)*Supercross Champion250sHaiden Deegan (7 wins, 8 podiums, 10 top-fives, 10 top-10s) [3 Moto wins] **Cole Davies (6 wins, 10 podiums, 12 top-fives, 12 top-10s) [5 Moto wins] +Seth Hammaker (2 wins, 8 podiums, 11 top-fives, 11 top-10s) [3 Moto wins] Levi Kitchen (1 win, 6 podiums, 10 top-fives, 11 top-10s) [1 Moto win]Max Anstie (1 win, 3 podiums, 5 top-fives, 9 top-10s)Nate Thrasher (1 win, 2 podiums, 4 top-fives, 7 top-10s) [1 Moto win]Pierce Brown (1 win, 2 podiums, 3 top-fives, 3 top-10s)Ryder DiFrancesco (3 podiums, 8 top-fives, 10 top-10s)Jo Shimoda (3 podiums, 6 top-fives, 7 top-10s)Cameron McAdoo (3 podiums, 5 top-fives, 5 top-10s)Daxton Bennick (2 podiums, 6 top-fives, 9 top-10s)Michael Mosiman (2 podiums, 4 top-fives, 6 top-10s) Julien Beaumer (1 podium, 2 top-fives, 2 top-10s) Devin Simonson (1 podium, 1 top-five, 7 top-10s) Chance Hymas (1 podium, 1 top-five, 4 top-10s)Landen Gordon (1 podium, 1 top-five, 2 top-10s)Caden Dudney (1 podium, 1 top-five, 1 top-10)Maximus Vohland (2 top-fives, 9 top-10s) Coty Schock (2 top-fives, 8 top-10s) Henry Miller (1 top-five, 5 top-10s) Kayden Minear (1 top-five, 2 top-10s) Hunter Yoder (7 top-10s) Nick Romano (5 top-10s) Parker Ross (4 top-10s) Derek Kelley (4 top-10s) Carson Mumford (4 top-10s) Cullin Park (3 top-10s) Dilan Schwartz (2 top-10s) Avery Long (2 top-10s) Jalek Swoll (2 top-10s) Maximus Vohland (2 top-10s) Kyle Peters (2 top-10s) Drew Adams (2 top-10s) Marshal Weltin (2 top-10s) Josh Varize (2 top-10s) Lux Turner (2 top-10s) Anthony Bourdon (1 top-10) Luke Neese (1 top-10) Izaih Clark (1 top-10) Gavin Towers (1 top-10) Robbie Wageman (1 top-10) ** Supercross East Champion+ Supercross West Champion[Moto wins include Feature wins from the Supercross series.]Recent Thunder Valley races450s2025: Jett Lawrence (Followed by Eli Tomac, Aaron Plessinger)2024: Jett Lawrence (Hunter Lawrence, Justin Cooper)2023: Jett Lawrence (Aaron Plessinger, Cooper Webb)2022: Ken Roczen (Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton)2021: Ken Roczen (Dylan Ferrandis, Adam Cianciarulo)250s2025: Chance Hymas (Haiden Deegan, Levi Kitchen)2024: Haiden Deegan (Chance Hymas, Tom Vialle)2023: Hunter Lawrence (Justin Cooper, Levi Kitchen)2022: Jett Lawrence (Hunter Lawrence, Levi Kitchen)2021: Justin Cooper (Jett Lawrence, Hunter Lawrence)Motocross PreviewsPala | HangtownSupercross PreviewsAnaheim 1 | San Diego | Anaheim 2 | Houston | Glendale | Seattle | Arlington | Daytona | Indianapolis | Birmingham | Detroit | St. Louis | Nashville | Cleveland | Philadelphia | Denver | Salt Lake City

Image: Formula 1 Formula 1's governing body has approved power unit adjustments that will somewhat reduce the awkward energy management that's become the norm under the sport's new hybrid regulations.The FIA announced a smaller, phased increase in internal combustion engine output beginning in 2027. Next year, the power split moves to 58/42 between combustion and electric power, up from the current 53/47, before becoming a 60/40 split in 2028.While the new power unit formula has delivered closer racing and improved efficiency, drivers and fans have complained there's too much time being spent managing battery energy rather than racing flat-out. Image: Formula 1 The new power split will be delivered by increasing fuel flow limits by five percent, boosting combustion engine output by about 30 horsepower. Because the increase is relatively modest, constructors are not expected to require major fuel tank modifications-which was a big sticking point during negotiations. At the same time, electric motor output will be reduced by about 65 horsepower under normal operation. However, the sport's Overtake Mode will remain unchanged at 350 kW, which means Overtake Mode will still provide a healthy power boost when close enough to attempt passes. Energy harvesting capacity will also rise from 250 kW to 375 kW, which should reduce the very visible power clipping, especially in a straight line. A more substantial adjustment is planned for 2028. Fuel flow will increase by 13 percent compared to current levels, raising combustion engine output to 600 horsepower. Maximum energy harvesting will increase again to 400 kW in 2028, while deployment limits and Overtake Mode settings will remain the same. Image: Formula 1 "The 2026 Formula 1 regulations were developed and agreed in close partnership between the FIA, FOM, teams, OEMs and Power Unit Manufacturers," the FIA body said in a statement. "These latest amendments reflect the continuation of this collaboration with all stakeholders working collectively to refine the framework and address identified operational challenges."Mercedes and Red Bull Ford Powertrains were down for more aggressive revisions starting next year, but Audi and Ferrari wanted a more gradual approach, so we ended up with this compromise instead.The proposed changes will now be submitted to the FIA World Motor Sport Council for final approval during its June 23 meeting in Macau.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.

NBA Finals aside, Giannis Antetokounmpo's future is the story of the league.Will he stay with the floundering Milwaukee Bucks? Or could he possibly join Jalen Brunson in New York if the Knicks blow their 3-1 lead to the San Antonio Spurs? Anything is on the table, including the rumor with the most buzz: Giannis to the Miami Heat.Antetokounmpo has been linked to Miami for months now, as the Heat reportedly offered Milwaukee Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware and multiple draft picks before February's trade deadline. The deal didn't come to fruition then, but the Bucks have another opportunity to accept it now, just before co-owner Jimmy Haslam's self-imposed deadline to trade Giannis before the June 23 draft.With less than two weeks to go, Antetokounmpo fanned the flames around the Heat rumors. Giannis posted photos from a trip to Monaco on his Instagram with the song Somebody Loves Me by PARTYNEXTDOOR and Drake. Seems innocent enough, right? Well, here's the opening lyric to that song: "We in Miami turning up another notch." An incredible troll job by the Greek Freak.“We in Miami turning up another notch”Giannis is trolling us Heat fans at this point 😭 pic.twitter.com/2RSSagEn8s— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) June 11, 2026With the Knicks nearing their first NBA title since 1973, the rest of the East will be looking to upgrade and compete. We'll see whether Giannis can be that missing piece in Miami alongside Bam Adebayo.This article originally appeared on For The Win: Did Giannis hint at Heat trade with cryptic song choice on Instagram post?

The Boston Celtics can return to contention by hitting singles over home run trades, even in the era of the Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, and San Antonio Spurs rising as perennial title contenders. Or at least that is the point of view of the hosts of "Havlicek Stole the Pod" and their guest from their most recent episode, Jack Simone of the "How Bout Them Celtics!" podcast.Even with the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, and Jalen Brunson standing in the way, the realities of the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) era has made it possible for Boston to retool their roster with the sort of depth and star mix this new epoch requires. The hosts and Simone break down why this is and how the Celtics might get there in the episode. Check it out below!Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:Blue Wire: https://tiny.ee/CdKpiTunes: https://tiny.ee/RK47YouTube: https://tiny.ee/cOW3This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: The path back to Celtics contention will not be via blockbuster trades

The Milwaukee Bucks’ 2025-26 season was a disappointment. The Bucks limped to a measly 30-52 record. Missing the playoffs was bad enough, but the Bucks faithful also had to deal with constant trade chatter surrounding franchise player Giannis Antetokounmpo.Giannis was injured much of the year, amplifying the trade noise. While Giannis finished the year in Milwaukee, rumors persist that he will be moved before the 2026 NBA Draft.The Bucks’ franchise is now at a crossroads with clearly divergent paths this offseason.If Giannis is traded, that will obviously potentially change the Bucks’ needs and NBA Draft options; they would be in the market for a new starting power forward, for starters. If Giannis is still in Milwaukee, the team will need an immediate impact player and not a project pick.The Bucks have found some diamonds in the rough and rotational pieces despite a lack of draft success over the last decade, including AJ Green, whom Milwaukee signed as an undrafted free agent. The same goes for Pete Nance and Cormac Ryan this year. The Bucks also traded for Ousmane Dieng at the NBA Trade Deadline, but their biggest gem is Ryan Rollins, who looks like he could be a future star.While there are some pieces to like, the Bucks need a talent upgrade and more athleticism on the roster.Bucks Draft Picks:Round 1 — No. 10Bucks Draft Needs:In today’s NBA, teams need long, 3-and-D wings, and the Bucks’ roster is largely devoid of those players. Milwaukee struggled defending wings with the undersized Green and Gary Trent Jr. on the perimeter. Dieng showed some of what the Bucks need more of in Milwaukee.The Bucks also need another point guard. While Rollins showed scoring ability and some playmaking, he looks like more of a combo guard than a point guard. A lead guard to pair with Rollins would be a solid combination to help lead the Bucks into the future, with or without Giannis.Bucks Draft Targets:Labaron Philon Jr. — G — AlabamaThe dynamic 6-foot-4 Philon is considered undersized for a wing, but he flashed point guard potential at Alabama. Philon scored 20 or more points in seven of his final nine games last year, including two 35-point performances; he handed out 12 assists in one of the games he failed to score 20.Philon would be a tremendous fit next to Ryan Rollins. He averaged 22 points and five assists per game on 50% shooting, including 39.9% from three. Despite a loss to Michigan in the Sweet 16, in a game full of pros, Philon looked like a top-two player on the court. He scored 35 points, hit six three-pointers, had seven rebounds, and added four assists.Yaxel Lendeborg — F — MichiganYaxel Lendeborg is a versatile 6-foot-9 wing/power forward who showed he can guard any position at Michigan.Lendeborg averaged 15 points and 6.8 rebounds on 51.5% shooting, including better than 37% from three. Before spraining his left MCL and rolling his ankle in the NCAA Tournament, affecting his performance, he started with 25, 23, and 27 points in the Wolverines’ first three games. In the matchup against Philon and the Crimson Tide, Lendeborg added 12 rebounds and seven assists to his 27 points.Lendeborg makes a lot of sense for the Bucks if they keep Giannis. He’s ready to step in immediately and contribute. If the Bucks move on from Giannis, given he’s already 24, they may go with a younger, less polished player, but one with a higher ceiling than Lendeborg.Nate Ament — SF — TennesseeThe Tennessee forward is probably the most mocked player to go to the Bucks.If the Bucks trade Giannis, Ament could be a good investment option as the team’s next power forward. The 19-year-old had an up-and-down year for the Volunteers. Before the 2025-26 season, Ament was projected as a top-5 pick. There are some flags to his game, like him shooting under 40% from the field and 33.3% from three. He also isn’t yet strong enough to finish at the rim through contact, but the 6-foot-10 versatile forward has some tantalizing skills.Ament averaged 16.7 points and 6.3 rebounds but struggled on the big stage in the tournament. Despite the Vols reaching the Elite 8, Ament wasn’t great. He was held scoreless in a Round of 64 matchup vs. Miami (OH).View this post on InstagramCameron Carr — G/F — BaylorPerhaps no player helped his stock more at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago than Carr. In scrimmage play, Carr drained six three-pointers and poured in 30 points with seven rebounds. According to the NBA.com write-up, “he was by far the best prospect on the court out of both games and showed enough to sit out Day 2 of scrimmage play.”While No. 10 may be a reach for Carr, according to mocks, he is exactly the type of player the Bucks desperately need. As a 6-foot-5 wing, Carr averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and shot 49.4% from the field and 37.4% from three at Baylor last year. He is a versatile defender with a 7-foot wingspan.Carr would fit with or without Giannis, filling a glaring need for Milwaukee.The post Milwaukee Bucks 2026 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on The Lead.

Fox host Jesse Watters wanted to make his audience mad about Pride Month, but he had an odd way of doing it: by showing amazing videos of queer people dancing. Watters started the segment with what he described – apparently derogatorily? – as a “gay dance fiesta,” referring to a short dance number on ABC’s Good Morning America. Related This gay couple’s mindblowing first dance at their wedding shocked their guests Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today “Sponsored by Disney,” he said ominously, referring to how Disney owns ABC and how Disney has come under attack by the right in recent years for its opposition to Florida’s Don’t Say Gay law. But the clip just looked like a lot of fun. Then Watters played a clip from New York City’s Pride Ball, which was held on June 2 at City Hall to celebrate Pride Month. He also played a clip showing people voguing and cheering and generally having a great time, and tried to make a joke about how City Hall had “transitioned to a runway so they could strut into Pride Month the right way,” like that was some sort of insult. His last item was a complaint about D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) “taking Pride Month very seriously.” In the clip, Bowser said that D.C. is “the gayest city in the world.” On social media, people appeared unimpressed with Watters’ attempt to make Pride Month seem like something bad. Jesse Watters featured a segment he thought might make LGBTQ folks look bad – adults dancing to salsa music, adults doing acrobatic vogue moves and a mayor saying kind words about LGBTQ people. Watters failed. These clips are amazing. Happy Pride! pic.twitter.com/5GfUgwZPjO— Decoding Fox News (@DecodingFoxNews) June 10, 2026 These people have no joy. All of those celebrations look awesome!— Teenie Joy (@TeenieTV) June 10, 2026 I love that .@FoxNews and .@JesseBWatters are promoting Pride Month!!! — katemacey (@katemacey) June 10, 2026 No doubt millions of Fox Viewers loved seeing Pride Celebrated on their TV – even though they had to pretend they were not happy about it! Especially teenagers who can’t wait to get the F**K out of the Fox Viewing House as soon as they can!— PacificRingOfFire~~ (@Toltschin) June 10, 2026 Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

MUMBAI: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag on Thursday underwent a successful shoulder surgery in a hospital here.The surgery was performed by famous orthopedic surgeon Dr Dinshaw Pardiwalla at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, who has operated on many top cricketers and sportspersons in general. Pardiwalla is the consultant orthopaedic surgeon for the BCCI."Well, the shoulder finally won! For everyone who’s been asking, the surgery is done and went well. The past two years have tested me in ways I never expected. There were good days, frustrating days, and days when simply getting through a game was a challenge. But I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Now comes a different challenge- recovery, rehab and patience. I’ll be back doing what I love soon. See you on the other side," Parag posted on Instagram, along with his picture after the surgery on Saturday.Parag is expected to be out of the game for a considerable period of time now, and is likely to miss a majority of the 2026-27 season, with the focus on his recovery and rehab.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Riyan💫 (@riyanhparag)Parag was initially named as the vice-captain for the India A squad for the 50-over tri-series featuring Afghanistan A and hosts Sri Lanka A, but was replaced by Ruturaj Gaikwad after he was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Parag's rehabilitation will be managed by the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. 131659126The shoulder and hamstring injuries forced Parag to miss a couple of matches in IPL-2026, in which he scored 309 runs in 14 matches@23.76, at a strike rate of 157.65, with two fifties, as he led the Rajasthan Royals into the playoffs. The batting allrounder has played one ODI (15 runs @15.00) and nine T20Is (106 runs@17.66) for India, all in 2024.The 24-year-old Assam captain was engulfed by controversy during IPL-2026 when he was caught by the cameras vaping in the dressing room and was fined and warned by the BCCI.

The NBA rumor mill rollercoaster continues with respect to a potential trade of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Boston Celtics, with Ringer head honcho Bill Simmons shifting his position on what he has heard about potential Celtics interest in dealing for the Greek Freak.On a recent episode of his eponymous podcast, Simmons broke down what he has heard about the potentiality of a Boston trade that has shifted his point of view on the likelihood of such a swap actually going down. "I thought Boston was out of this," explained the Ringer founder. "I know Boston was out of this. I was wondering if they were playing possum or not. I think they were playing a little possum. I think they are in on Giannis. I’m not recanting what I said before.""I don’t know the reasons for it," he added. "Maybe they felt like (the) Miami (Heat)’s offer is an offer they could beat. Maybe they want to drive the price of Miami’s offer up and don’t really have interest in him.""Giannis is pushing for Miami or Boston," suggested Simmons. "Those are the two locations and really wants to end up in Boston because he would have the best chance to win a title. Boston is not ruling out the idea is my intel. In general, I’m prepared for anything with Boston now."The Celtics under President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens have largely played major moves close to the vest, so take this with a very large grain of salt -- but it is also something to monitor.Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:Blue Wire: https://tiny.ee/CdKpiTunes: https://tiny.ee/RK47YouTube: https://tiny.ee/cOW3This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Bill Simmons: prepared for anything with Celtics now on Giannis trade

The Denver Broncos have thrived during the Sean Payton era. The coach has gone 32-19 across three seasons with the team, taking it as far as the AFC conference championship game.Because of that, the team reportedly rewarded Payton with a new five-year extension, per ESPN.The financial details of Payton’s new extension — including its total cost and his yearly salary — were not immediately available.This story will be updated.

NEW YORK (AP) — When OG Anunoby is introduced at Madison Square Garden, it sounds like a 20,000-person singalong.The anticipation builds as the public address announcer begins to reveal the second starter, a 6-foot-7 forward from Indiana. When he finally reaches the player's name, the fans scream it right along with him. “O! ... G! ... AN-UN-OBY!!!!”Early Thursday morning, fans again chanted Anunoby's name, this time in a bar outside the arena as they celebrated one of the most memorable moments in New York Knicks history.Anunoby's tip-in with 1.2 seconds remaining in Game 4 put the Knicks on the verge of a title and moved him into the discussion for NBA Finals MVP.Anunoby is not the kind of player who usually wins awards, and he might be the least-known of the Knicks' starters. But his teammates understand Anunoby's value far exceeds his reputation.“So regardless of what the outside world thinks of him, we know what we have in our locker room, and we have a superstar in that locker room,” guard Jalen Brunson said.Anunoby is the only player on the Knicks' postseason roster who has won a ring, but he was injured and didn't play for Toronto in the 2019 NBA Finals. But there's no way New York would have a chance at its first championship since 1973 if he wasn't front and center now.From scoring to stopping, Anunoby might to be asked to do more than any Knicks player. He not only finished with 33 points in Game 4 but also made the biggest defensive play of the game when he chased down De'Aaron Fox to block his shot with 11 seconds left and the Spurs leading 106-105.Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns said that's what he expects from a player who seems to save his best for the biggest moments.“Every time I talk to him, I say, I already know what OG Anunoby is going to do in the fourth quarter, and he did exactly what I thought he would do,” Towns said. “He gave us a chance to win, and that’s all you could ask for from the best two-way player in the NBA.”The Knicks couldn't believe Anunoby was only voted to the All-Defensive second team, certain there aren't five better defenders in the NBA. It was those defensive skills that made him most attractive when the Knicks acquired him from the Raptors in 2023, giving up two of their most promising players on a developing team in RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. Anunoby was also known as a reliable 3-point shooter from the corners, and he made one as time expired to give the Raptors a victory over Boston in the 2020 playoffs. He hardly celebrated after the shot went through, just as he was one of the few people inside Madison Square Garden who appeared completely calm after his basket in Game 4.“Just, the game wasn’t over,” Anunoby explained. “I looked up to see the time. If it would have been 0:00, I would have been more excited, but it was just 1.2 left. So just knowing, get a stop now, just stay with it, staying present, not getting too happy because the game is not over yet.”Anunoby is averaging 23.8 points in the series, shooting 58% from the field and 55.6% from 3-point range. He finished 10 for 15 in Game 4, including 7 for 9 behind the arc.When Anunoby limped off the court with a hamstring injury late in the Knicks' victory over Philadelphia in Game 2 of the second round, there was concern this run could be in jeopardy just as it was picking up steam. When Anunoby was hurt at the same time in the 2024 playoffs, the Knicks blew a 2-0 lead against Indiana and ultimately lost the series in Game 7, when Anunoby gamely tried to return after missing four games but it was clear he could hardly move and was yanked after five minutes.This injury was not as bad. Helped by extended time off when the Knicks swept the 76ers, Anunoby was able to return in time for the start of the Eastern Conference semifinals.Having him on the floor now — and soaring through the air in the final seconds of Game 4 — could be what it takes to end a 53-year title drought.“OG, he’s been amazing since he’s got here,” fellow forward Josh Hart said. “This whole playoff run, he’s been amazing on both ends of the ball. He’s a winning player and he made a winning play.”___AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

On Thursday, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced four roster moves just two days before the end of mandatory minicamp. According to the team, the Steelers signed free agent wide receiver Joaquin Davis and defensive back Daryl Porter. To make room on the roster, the team also announced they released long snapper Cal Adomitis and offensive tackle Aiden Williams.Pittsburgh is busy wrapping up its mandatory minicamp and preparing for a full month ahead of training camp. All reports are the team got in a lot of good work and the new look and brand new coaching staff. Neither Davis nor Porter figures to be in the mix for the team's final 53-man roster. This will be Porter's second stint with the Steelers. Porter appeared in one game for the Steelers last season.We have signed WR Joaquin Davis and DB Daryl Porter to one-year contracts and released LS Cal Adomitis and OT Aiden Williams. @BordasLawhttps://t.co/XNsB0eiN1p— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) June 11, 2026For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers shuffle roster spots after minicamp

In his first extensive interview since his defeat by a Trump-backed challenger, the Texas Republican said the Senate was in for a “bumpy ride” as he and others flex new political freedom.

The shift in global weather patterns threatens to worsen floods and heat waves that were already intensifying because of climate change.

For the second day in a row, Chicago is in the bull’s-eye of the areas facing severe weather on Thursday, but the storm forecast is widespread.

The post Nancy Mace Introduces Bill To Separate Gubernatorial Races By Gender appeared first on The Onion.

The 2026 World Cup is here.This year's tournament runs from June 11 through July 19, with the United States, Mexico and Canada serving as co-hosts. It will be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, a major jump from 32 in the past tournament.As excitement brews for the World Cup, some may wonder when and where the next World Cup tournament will occur. Here's everything you need to know.When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?The 2026 World Cup is from June 11 to July 19.The United States, Mexico and Canada are serving as co-hosts.When is the next FIFA World Cup?The next World Cup is in 2030.Where will the next World Cup take place?The 2030 World Cup tournament will be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain. Three centenary celebration matches to be held in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay (one in each country), according to FIFA.How often is the World Cup held?The FIFA World Cup is traditionally held every four years, just like the Olympic Games.This schedule or "cycle" has been the standard since the tournament's inception in 1930, with only one interruption from 1938 to 1950 due to World War II.In recent years, FIFA has floated the idea of holding the World Cup every two years, but the idea was met with near-universal backlash, according to The Sporting News.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Where is the next World Cup? When is it? 3 countries will host again

[Getty Images]It is a dilemma plenty of people in the UK will be wrestling with over the next few weeks - stay up for the match, or catch up the morning after.But how do you find out what's happened overnight at the World Cup without any spoilers?Well, we are giving you the chance to do that via bbc.co.uk/nospoilers.This page will take you direct to a World Cup highlights page on BBC iPlayer, which will have highlights for every match without telling you who has won.It might give you a hint as to what has happened - if there has been a seven-goal thriller, for example - but we will not be giving you the winner or the result.We will continue doing that as usual on the BBC Sport website and app and on the World Cup page on BBC iPlayer, but if you want to get your World Cup fix, head to bbc.co.uk/nospoilersAdd that page as a bookmark, and you can visit direct and it will allow you to watch the highlights in blissful ignorance of what happens.If you're watching iPlayer on your TV, head to our World Cup destination page.Just don't come complaining to us if it means you've spent seven minutes watching highlights of a 0-0 draw...

Detroit — The results speak for themselves. Then again, the results aren't everything when it comes to rehab assignments. The Tigers got the most important thing out of Justin Verlander's start for Triple-A Toledo on Wednesday."Volume," Tigers manager AJ Hinch said. "That's exactly what we wanted."Verlander, who's made just one start for the Tigers this season before landing on the injured list with a hip inflammation, went 5.2 innings for the Mud Hens on Thursday. He threw 86 pitches, 53 for strikes. It was his second rehab start for Toledo, and results-wise, it was rougher than the first.On Thursday, Verlander allowed five hits, and four of them were 400-foot-plus home runs by St. Paul, the Triple-A team of the Minnesota Twins. He walked two and struck out three. Hinch hadn't yet met with Verlander on Thursday morning before meeting with the media, so he hadn't been briefed on how Verlander felt. Verlander's fastball sat in the low 90s. He touched 95.Verlander's first start for Toledo, last week in Iowa, was better, results-wise. He allowed no runs on four hits in five innings. He struck out three and walked nobody.Verlander, 43, is expected to throw a bullpen over the weekend in Cleveland. The veteran right-hander could return to the rotation as early as next week during the series in Houston, where he won two World Series championships after being traded from Detroit in August 2017.If Verlander does return in Houston and is healthy, that could put him in line for his first start of the season at Comerica Park sometime during the next home stand, June 19-28 against the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees and Astros. Verlander was supposed to pitch at Comerica on "Sunday Night Baseball" on Easter Sunday, April 5, before a large crowd eager to see his first start in Detroit as a Tiger in nearly a decade, but he was scratched with what seemed like a minor injury at the time — but has been an injury that has lingered.The Tigers rotation is getting quite healthy. Ace Tarik Skubal (elbow surgery) will return to the rotation Saturday in Cleveland for his first start for the Tigers since late April, and Casey Mize (groin) could start Sunday's game in Cleveland, though that's still listed as TBD."We're hoping that Casey's going to be available to us," Hinch said before Thursday's series finale against the Twins at Comerica Park.Mize still has to go through one more bullpen session.Mize made a rehab start for Low-A Lakeland on Tuesday, allowing a run on three hits over five innings. He struck out five and walked one. It's his second stint on the IL. He last pitched for the Tigers on May 27.If Mize isn't quite ready for Sunday, then Troy Melton could slot into that spot on regular rest, though the Tigers would prefer to go with Mize then and start Melton for the series opener in Houston on Monday.For the next few weeks, the Tigers are set to use a six-man rotation of Jack Flaherty (Friday), Skubal (Saturday), Mize (Sunday?), Melton (Monday?), Framber Valdez (Tuesday?) and Keider Montero (Wednesday?), with Verlander's return to require a bigger decision from Hinch on who'll be the odd man out.Skubal, Mize and Verlander all were in the Tigers clubhouse Thursday, and were packed for the upcoming road trip, as was closer Kenley Jansen (pelvis), who also made a rehab appearance for Toledo on Wednesday. He allowed three runs and two hits and a walk in two-thirds of an inning. He struck out one and also had a wild pitch.Jansen last pitched for the Tigers on May 27, the same game in which Detroit lost Mize to injury."Kenley, I think, was a little rusty," Hinch said Thursday morning, "but encouraging that he didn't feel anything, he didn't have any symptoms (from the injury).On deck: Guardians▶ Series: Three games, Friday-Sunday, Progressive Field, Cleveland▶ TV/radio: All three games on Detroit SportsNet/97.1▶ Series probables: Friday — RHP Jack Flaherty (1-7, 5.31) vs. RHP Tanner Bibee (1-7, 4.09); Saturday — LHP Tarik Skubal (3-2, 2.70) vs. LHP Joey Cantillo (4-3, 4.57); Sunday — TBD vs. RHP Gavin Williams (9-3, 3.32)Scouting report▶ Flaherty, Tigers: He's definitely better much better over his last several starts, and you can probably point to the improved command as the biggest reason why. After walking 29 (and hitting five batters) in his first nine starts, he's walked only four in his last four starts.▶ Bibee, Guardians: The record and ERA aren't overly indicative of how he's pitched this year, especially late. Last time out, he shut out the Texas Rangers on three hits over eight innings. On May 20 against the Tigers, he was excellent, too. He has a 3.28 regular-season career ERA against Detroit.tpaul@detroitnews.com@tonypaul1984This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Tigers get 'exactly what we wanted' in Justin Verlander's lrehab start

By Stephen Eisenhammer, Emily Green, Cassandra Garrison and Sarah Morland MEXICO CITY, June 11 (Reuters) - With Mariachi costumes, trumpets, and a sea of dark green support, Mexico City prepared to open the World Cup on Thursday, as fans packed the famous Azteca stadium ahead ‌of the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, amid a backdrop of protests around the capital. Long queues wrapped around the Azteca as ‌fans faced a long wait to enter the first stadium to host matches across three World Cups. Inside, thousands sang ahead of kickoff. Alejandro Garcia, 50, decked out in a sombrero and carrying ​a replica trophy, said he was proud that Mexico was hosting another World Cup. He was a young kid when the country last hosted the tournament in 1986. "This is our temple," he said on the concourse around the Azteca. "It's going to be a great World Cup, all of the protests will now be forgotten." But outside the ground, the city of 9 million people remained deeply divided. The run-up to the tournament in Mexico, which the country is co-hosting with the U.S. and ‌Canada, has been marked by social unrest in the ⁠capital as various groups -- from teachers to families of those missing in the drug war -- have marched in attempts to leverage the international spotlight to advance their cause. At least six protests were planned on Thursday, with the city a contradiction of ⁠celebration and opposition. Freshly painted murals, new trains and a revamped stadium aimed at welcoming tourists for the games contrasted with steel barricades mounted by businesses to protect themselves from rioters along the capital's main avenue. CAMPS AND MARCHES About three miles from the Azteca, thousands of disgruntled teachers from around the country began marching towards the stadium ahead ​of ​the match. Avelina Cruz Miguel, who has taught elementary school for 22 years, travelled from ​Oaxaca to protest for better pay. She said the protests ‌offered an opportunity for the teachers to make their demands known at "an international level." "There is no support for education" in Mexico, she said. Teachers had also camped outside the central Zocalo square for days leading up to the start of the tournament. The encampment forced authorities to barricade the entrance to the Zocalo on the eve of the competition opener and raised fears the area would be closed to fans who had planned to amass in the square to watch on a big screen. On Thursday, tents lined the streets for multiple blocks surrounding the square but authorities confirmed the fan zone would be open. Mario Martinez, 30, from ‌Tijuana, was one of the first fans to enter with his girlfriend. He said ​they had come to the fan zone because stadium tickets were too expensive and had been ​worried the event would be cancelled. "Thank God it all worked out." Many ​residents have complained money was being spent to beautify the city for visitors without addressing underlying infrastructure issues. Thursday was ‌declared an official holiday in Mexico City, in part to alleviate ​transport concerns. Other Chilangos, as Mexico City ​locals are known, complained of prohibitively high ticket prices that had kept them from seeing the spectacle live in their home town. For the opening match between Mexico and South Africa some fans interviewed by Reuters said they had paid $3,000 or more, way out of reach for ​most Mexicans. FIFA has defended its pricing saying the ‌cost of tickets is on a par with other major sporting events. "FIFA is only interested in profit," said Jonathan Cordoba, 33, as ​he stood in a long queue to enter the stadium. But he said he had no regrets: "It's the passion!" (Reporting by Stephen Eisenhammer, ​Emily Green, Cassandra Garrison and Sarah Morland in Mexico CityEditing by Toby Davis)

Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty ImagesCollin Morikawa struggled his way around TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley on day one of the RBC Canadian Open.Morikawa has experienced an extremely challenging last three months on the PGA Tour.It all started so well for the two-time major champion in 2026, after he won for the first time since October 2023 in February at Pebble Beach.However, things went downhill very quickly indeed for Collin Morikawa after he had to withdraw from The Players Championship with a back injury after just one hole of the tournament.Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty ImagesMorikawa struggling around Aronimink last month caused real concern.That was the last tournament he played up until this week at the RBC Canadian Open.Morikawa said he’s still not comfortable with his back ahead of the RBC Canadian Open, and that showed during his opening round in Toronto.Collin Morikawa told to ‘stay at home’ after Canadian Open showingMorikawa looked in clear discomfort on Thursday morning during his opening round at the Canadian Open.Despite getting under par early, the 29-year-old ended his round on even par.However, concerns have been raised about his fitness pertaining to his recent back injury.On Thursday, 2002 Players Championship winner Craig Perks shared his opinion on Morikawa’s current situation.Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images“Morikawa hasn’t played since the PGA, and with the new arrival of the child, hey, stay at home,“ Perks said.“Stay home until you’re healthy.“It just looks like he is playing with so much discomfort. He’s just a shell of himself.“Morikawa looks uncomfortable when he is walking but more concerning is just how different his swing has looked since he first picked up his back issue in March.There is a definite lack of trust in completing his backswing, and the same can be said for his swing through the impact position.Matt Every noticed a worrying sign about Collin MorikawaTwo-time PGA Tour winner Matt Every watched Morikawa close up on Thursday in Toronto.After following the five-time major champion around TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, Every noticed some really worrying signs.“I couldn’t imagine my body moving at a certain speed, pretty much my whole career, and then, you know, Collin’s definitely coming out here and playing with a different golf swing right now than he has in years past,“ Every said.“It’s just, it’s something you don’t see a ton of in mid-seasons, slowing down in your tempo.“Morikawa’s ball speed has dropped significantly since the start of the season.During his win at Pebble Beach in February, he was hovering around the 175-178 mph range but today in Toronto, his ball speed was around 170-172 mph with the driver.If Collin Morikawa really is in discomfort out on the golf course, it is utterly bizarre why he is playing in the RBC Canadian Open this week.In fact, it is really strange that he has played with such regularity since first suffering his back injury in March.Morikawa will have to make a big decision soon, and perhaps an extended break from the game is what he really needs.

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