The Pros and Cons of Orange County SC Hosting the USMNTUrban Pitch sat down with Dan Rutstein, President of Orange County SC, as the club prepares to host the USMNT during the opening stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During our conversation, Rutstein breaks down what the team has at its disposal and what this moment means for the club.The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here. After years of anticipation, all 48 nations are now spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, training and preparing for the biggest sporting event on the planet.Among them is the U.S. men’s national team. All 26 players are now under the watchful eye of Mauricio Pochettino and his staff as preparations intensify ahead of their group stage matches. Their home base for the tournament will be at the Great Park Sports Complex in Irvine, California, which is the home of Orange County SC.It is within that context that we spoke with OCSC President Dan Rutstein about what it means to host the USMNT during one of the most important moments in American soccer history, and what comes next for the club once the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to an end.Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesUrban Pitch: What specific aspects of the facility made it the right choice to become the USMNT’s World Cup headquarters? Beyond the location itself, what do you think Orange County SC and the facilities offered that really stood out to U.S. Soccer? Dan Rutstein: The Championship Soccer Stadium is consistently regarded as one of the best venues in the USL. It’s a scenic, well-maintained, modern soccer-specific stadium with a high-quality pitch and state-of-the-art locker rooms.Beyond the facilities themselves, security and logistics also played a major role. Located within the massive Great Park development rather than a residential neighborhood, the site offers the space needed to create a secure environment while still accommodating large parking areas, media operations, and other World Cup infrastructure.Orange County has traditionally served as a convenient base for teams operating in the greater Los Angeles area, and there’s already historical precedent. Prior to previous World Cups, the USMNT trained nearby in Mission Viejo in the lead up to 1994.Ultimately, the facility offered exactly what U.S. Soccer was looking for: something modern, clean, easy to customize, and ready to operate immediately. Add in the fact that it’s located in one of the country’s most soccer-passionate regions, and it became a fairly straightforward decision.Players often talk about the importance of feeling at home during tournaments like the World Cup, especially when dealing with constant travel, intense schedules, and unfamiliar surroundings. With so many players now based all over the world, and many not necessarily having connections to the area where they’re staying, how much work goes into creating that sense of comfort and familiarity at a temporary base camp like this? How do you make a place feel like home for the players during such an important moment? Modern national teams have become incredibly sophisticated when it comes to tournament preparation, and they think through virtually every detail. In the case of the USMNT, a major part of that starts with creating familiarity and comfort.The team is staying at a hotel complex they’re already comfortable with, while also being close enough for friends and family to remain accessible, something that matters during a tournament of this magnitude. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Orange County SC (@orangecountysoccer) Inside the facility itself, the transformation has been extensive. From the moment players walk in, it no longer feels like an Orange County SC stadium. All club branding has been removed and replaced with personalized USMNT visuals and messaging designed specifically for the players.Importantly, this isn’t about appearances or creating something for cameras. Much of what has been added is for spaces fans will never see. The focus is on making players feel comfortable, valued, and connected to the team environment. Locker rooms have been customized with crests, national team branding, and personalized touches throughout.The physical infrastructure has also been reimagined. Areas normally used for team meetings have reportedly been converted into spaces like Mauricio Pochettino’s office, while premium hospitality areas are being transformed into recovery, massage, and preparation spaces.Ultimately, they’ve taken a stadium normally designed to host thousands of fans and turned it into a private, high-performance environment where players have everything they need to train, recover, and spend their time comfortably throughout the tournament.Obviously hosting the USMNT is a major moment for the club, but beyond being able to say that the national team trained here, what does this mean from a long-term business perspective for OCSC? Once the World Cup is over and everything returns to normal, what impact do you expect this experience to have on the club and the stadium moving forward? It’s an interesting situation because, in many ways, this is a case of short-term pain for medium- and long-term gain.Orange County SC are tenants at the stadium and still have several years remaining on our agreement, so giving up our home venue, along with training fields and infrastructure, has created genuine disruption. Players have been forced to train elsewhere, change in neighboring facilities, and the club has had to adjust its schedule significantly, including playing more road games and even moving home matches to other venues around Orange County.Still, from the club’s perspective, saying no was never really an option.Who doesn’t want the U.S. national team playing in their stadium? The long-term opportunities are where the club believes the real value lies. Orange County SC is currently exploring stadium naming rights, and the association with hosting the USMNT during a home World Cup naturally creates additional interest and visibility.Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesThere’s also the fan growth element. More than 30,000 people reportedly applied for tickets to attend an upcoming open training session, bringing thousands of potential first-time visitors into a stadium many may have never previously considered attending for club matches.The proximity to the national team could help convert casual U.S. Soccer fans into local supporters. The World Cup has historically created new soccer audiences, and there’s hope that fans who passionately follow European soccer or the national team may finally begin connecting with their local clubs.There’s also symbolic importance for a club that prides itself on player development. Orange County SC has built one of the strongest youth pathways in North America and has produced numerous players who have moved abroad. With several U.S. youth national team players currently within the system, there is something fitting about today’s USMNT preparing in the same environment where the next generation of American talent develops every week.That connection between the present and future of American soccer may ultimately be the most meaningful legacy of hosting the World Cup team.The Great Post-World Cup PushThere’s been a lot of discussion from both MLS and USL executives about the 2026 World Cup becoming another transformational moment for soccer in the United States, similar to what happened after 1994. But the landscape today is very different. The sport is more established, there are more leagues, more clubs, and different levels of investment across the ecosystem. From your perspective, how should success actually be measured once the World Cup ends? I think it’s important to recognize that this isn’t only about the World Cup. Soccer in the United States has been growing at a much faster pace over the last several years than it ever has before, and the World Cup is really arriving at a moment when interest is already accelerating.You’ve had a lot of different factors contributing to that growth: the Wrexham story, Ted Lasso, Lionel Messi coming to the United States, the Club World Cup, and now the natural momentum that comes with entering a World Cup year. All of those things have helped convert casual sports fans into soccer fans.For us specifically, I think the impact is going to show up across multiple areas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Orange County SC (@orangecountysoccer) One example is merchandise. We launched scarves combining national team branding with Orange County branding, one themed around the U.S. and another around Mexico, and both sold out almost immediately. We actually can’t restock them until after the World Cup. So even at the merchandise level, we’re already seeing evidence that connecting global soccer moments to local clubs resonates with people.We’re also investing heavily in fan engagement. We’re hosting watch parties, sending our marketing teams out into the community, and building relationships with soccer fans who may have followed the sport for years but never interacted with our club before. When we return to the stadium in July, we’re hosting what we’re calling “Global Soccer Night,” and I expect that to bring in a lot of first-time fans.From a business perspective, I think we’ll see direct impacts through ticket sales, merchandise, sponsorship opportunities, and fan database growth. Sponsors are increasingly interested in soccer already, and I expect that interest to continue growing after the tournament. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Orange County SC (@orangecountysoccer) The other factor is value. People have seen how expensive World Cup tickets have become. For the price of parking at some World Cup matches, or a single premium ticket, you could buy season tickets to a local club, bring your family to games, and still spend less overall.I think there’s going to be a moment where fans experience the excitement of the World Cup but also begin looking around and asking themselves, “How can I keep this going?” And for many of them, local soccer is going to be the answer.So I think we’ll see both direct revenue growth and something equally important: long-term audience growth.Soccer in the United States has clearly grown, but it still often feels like a sport that breaks into the mainstream mainly during major moments like the World Cup or when stars like Messi arrive. From your perspective, what still needs to happen for soccer to become more of a week-in, week-out conversation in America rather than an event-driven sport? I think there’s a difference between how soccer is perceived in American media and how people actually consume the sport. The reality is there are probably far more soccer fans in the United States than most people realize.A lot of that comes from the country’s diversity and immigrant communities, where soccer has always been deeply embedded culturally. If you stop people in the street and ask who they support, many will name Liga MX clubs, European teams, or clubs from abroad before mentioning a local team, but they’re still soccer fans.I think the World Cup helps because it pushes soccer into everyday life. Suddenly players are appearing in commercials, brands are investing in campaigns, and soccer becomes impossible to ignore. Even compared to the last World Cup cycle, the sport feels much more visible today.The challenge isn’t necessarily interest. Participation numbers are growing and consumption is growing. The challenge is translating that into mainstream media relevance.I also think accessibility matters. More exposure on traditional television probably helps grow the game, while putting too much behind paywalls can slow that process.Ultimately, I think this is happening, just slower than people want. The audience already exists. The question is when media companies, broadcasters, and brands fully catch up to how many people are already consuming the sport.

One day after playing a stellar doubles match with Serena Williams, Canadian tennis player Victoria Mboko suffered a leg injury at the HSBC Championships and was forced to retire mid match against Karolina Pliskova.While running for a ball, Mboko twisted her leg in an odd way. With Mirra Andreeva claiming a maiden Grand Slam as a teen, Mboko is considered the next best teen to do so with Wimbledon as her last chance before turning 20 in late August. Wimbledon begins in 19 days.MORE: Leylah Fernandez debuts two-toned Lululemon kit for grass seasonSerena’s HSBC doubles campaign likely haltedIt is extremely unlikely that Mboko will be able to play doubles with Serena in the second round. That match against Leylah Fernandez and Laura Siegemund is scheduled for Thursday, June 11 at 12:30 PM EDT.Mar 24, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Victoria Mboko (CAN) hits a forehand against Karolina Muchova (CZE) (not pictured) on day eight of the 2026 Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesWhen assessing injury concerns, many would have assumed that the 44 year old Williams would be a bigger risk, but this is part of the uncertainty, challenge, and heartbreak associated with professional tennis.MORE: Where is Erika Andreeva, older sister of 2026 French Open champion Mirra AndreevaMboko and Serena showed great camaraderie on the court, and their games complemented each other. Serena hand-picked Mboko as her comeback partner, and she has made it clear she is not prepared to play singles yet. More training would be necessary.Will we see more of Mboko and the Mboko/Serena doubles team before Wimbledon? Let’s hope so. WTA tennis is better with them competing.In the meantime, Serena will be playing doubles with Karolina Muchova in next week at Berlin.

UFC heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit speaks to reporters during the UFC Freedom 250 media day, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)2026-06-10T18:08:05Z WASHINGTON (AP) — UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit was decked out in an American flag bandana and American eagle gloves as he delivered vigorous trash talk ahead of the company’s White House debut.Hokit wasn’t about to modify his style on the microphone just because he will fight Sunday night on the White House South Lawn in a mixed martial arts show timed to coincide with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and the celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.“You’ll never see me apologize for anything I do,” Hokit said Wednesday.Well, the heavyweight is in the right city for that declaration. He was one of several fighters who added a dash of brashness and boldness in the nation’s capital just four days before the surreal juxtaposition of pummeling and patriotism set for Trump and UFC boss Dana White’s big-fight vision of UFC Freedom 250. Forget the Washington Monument. The claw, the temporary arena structure that houses the eight-sided cage, is the buzziest landmark this week in DC. Umbrellas were a necessary accessory around Washington early Wednesday and the threat of heavier rain later in the week, which could dampen both a scheduled press conference at the Lincoln Memorial as well as fight night, was the only true concern ahead of the fight card. White, who helped launch UFC into a global sports empire, insisted inclement weather will not keep Sunday’s spectacle from proceeding as scheduled. Read More “We’re going to be good on Sunday,” White said this week. “I don’t care if it snows, rains, we’re going. Even lightning. You guys all played sports when you were growing up. Whenever there was lightning, you’d sit the lightning out. When it was over, you played. That’s what we’ll do.”While the South Lawn setting normally reserved for low-contact events like the annual Easter Egg Roll is the real star of the show, there are two championship fights set for the Paramount+ show. In a card that has been panned by fans online as underwhelming, Brazil’s Alex Pereira will meet France’s Ciryl Gane for the interim UFC heavyweight title. Then Spanish-Georgian lightweight champion Ilia Topuria takes on interim champ Justin Gaethje, one of just two Americans who currently hold even a share of the UFC’s 11 championship belts.UFC middleweight Bo Nickal and 250 fighter was a three-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion at Penn State and met Trump in 2019 at the White House at a ceremony for collegiate national champions.“The president said hello to all the teams,” Nickal said Wednesday. “When he got to us, he was all excited because he likes wrestlers. He talked to us for maybe 10, 15 minutes because he likes chatting.”Nickal is set to fight on the main card Sunday against Philadelphia fighter Kyle Daukaus. Nickal called fighting on the show a “massive opportunity,” and one he may have manifested back in that 2019 meeting.“I told him at that time in 2019 that I was going to fight at UFC,” Nickal said. “He asked if I needed an agent. He’s put in a good word for me, obviously, getting on this card.” White, a long-time friend and former business associate of Trump from the days when Boardwalk cards at Trump Taj Mahal lifted UFC into relevancy, brushed off a federal lawsuit that seeks to halt the fight card. The filing Saturday by the Public Integrity Project on behalf of two Virginia residents contends the Trump administration’s authorization of the event was unlawful. The lawsuit says such approval violated National Park Service regulations prohibiting sporting events on federal parklands, Congress did not consent to the towering arch overlooking the event space and no environmental review was conducted before the construction.“We were expecting a lawsuit,” White said. “We expected everything coming into this event. We thought it would be sooner. We knew it was going to come. We didn’t know who or who, but we knew it was going to come.”___AP MMA: https://apnews.com/hub/mixed-martial-arts DAN GELSTON Gelston is an an Associated Press sports writer covering major college and pro sports in Philadelphia, including the 76ers, Flyers, Eagles, Phillies and Villanova. twitter mailto

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The Golden Knights find themselves in the same spot as they were in the first two rounds of the NHL playoffs, and Vegas certainly would love for it to be the same outcome.But the situations are notably different.Vegas had home-ice advantage against Utah and Anaheim, winning both series in six games after they were each 2-2. Now the Golden Knights have to figure out a way to win two of the next three games in the Stanley Cup Final with the possibility that two will be at Carolina, including what would be a winner-take-all Game 7.Game 5 is there Thursday night.But the Golden Knights have more issues to confront against the Hurricanes than trying to sneak out a win in one of the NHL's most daunting atmospheres. Whether the Golden Knights address these issues will go a long way toward determining whether they hoist the Cup for the second time in four seasons or rue the missed opportunities of what could have been.Eichel struggling to scoreJack Eichel has 20 points in the postseason, second only in the NHL to teammate Mitch Marner's 29.But Eichel has scored just two goals in the playoffs and none in the past six games going back to the Western Conference Final against Colorado. He always has been a pass-first player, but even there Eichel has just two assists against the Hurricanes.If it's true the stars have to be a team's best players in the playoffs, the Golden Knights badly need Eichel to get back on the scoresheet. He almost did in Tuesday night's 5-3 loss, hitting the puck just over the crossbar on what would have been the tying goal late in the third period. If that had gone in, Vegas might be heading to Carolina for a potential closeout game.“I know Jack doesn’t have the goals,” Golden Knights coach John Tortorella said after the game. “He was close tonight. He had the game on his stick on the faceoff there, just missed, hit the crossbar, one-timer. I think they’re developing chances, but we do need to finish when we have some opportunities.”Hart no longer looking so dominantIt’s not all on goalie Carter Hart, who was lights out in the first three rounds. He has been the victim of numerous defensive breakdowns in front of him.But it’s still hard to dispute the numbers.Hart was 12-4 with a .924 save percentage and 2.22 goals-against average before the final. He was in the conversation for the Conn Smythe Trophy that goes to the top player in the postseason before allowing four goals in each of the first four games of the final.Against the Hurricanes, he has an .861 save percentage and 3.60 GAA.Hart has shined at times. His play in double overtime in Game 3 in which he turned back some dangerous chances was critical in helping the Golden Knights win. But Hart also has given up goals in bunches at times when his team could use at least one big save to minimize the damage.And some help from the defense would be timely. The Golden Knights had just 12 blocked shots on Tuesday, tying their lowest this postseason.“Just trust our system, trust each other to step up, block shots, make plays and win our battles,” center Colton Sissons said. “Hartsy will be there when we need him.”Special teams not so specialVegas entered the final converting on 23.9% of its power plays, part of a special teams unit that was largely responsible for winning the West. But against the Hurricanes, that number is 8.3%.On one power play Tuesday, the Golden Knights spent a minute and a half in the offensive zone passing the puck looking for the perfect shot that never came. That did the Hurricanes' work for them.It's the same on the penalty kill. Carolina entered this series by converting on 12.5% of is power plays, but that number is 36.4% against the Golden Knights.What makes it even more surprising is the Golden Knights' penalty kill was humming before facing Carolina, working at an 87.5% clip and with a league-best four short-handed goals.The Hurricanes technically had one power-play goal in Game 4, but another came right after time expired.___AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/stanley-cup and https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Texas A&M's 2026 season will serve as coach Mike Elko's third year at the helm, and after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, the former Duke coach and long-time Aggie defensive coordinator has further proven that he is building a blue-blood program, starting and ending with recruiting, and landing elite high school prospects with NFL potential.Texas A&M's historic 11-0 start last fall, coupled with starting quarterback Marcel Reed throwing for 3,169 yards and 25 touchdowns, were just two of the accomplishments Elko and his staff set out to accomplish before the season, while senior edge Cashius Howell's SEC-leading 11.5 sacks earned him unanimous All-American status, making him the 11th Aggie to earn the prestigious honor.Coupled with star transfer KC Concepcion leading the Aggies in receiving, a record 10 players were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, which Mike Elko predicted during the early parts of the 2025 offseason. Thanks to a strong culture aided by S&C coach Tommy Moffitt, Texas A&M returns the bulk of its 2025 roster while adding 17 transfer portal additions to help replace more than 20 players who departed.Nationally known as one of the top defensive minds with a third-down package that has continued to frustrate offensive coordinators for the past decade, Mike Elko should be considered one of the top 10 or 15 coaches in all of college football, and Sporting News agrees in their latest rankings, placing the Aggie head coach at No. 11 compared to sitting at No. 26 this time last year."Elko continues to move up each season. He's won at multiple stops with Duke and Texas A&M – and the Aggies are looking to build off their first CFP appearance in 2025. Elko is 6-4 against top-25 teams – and a 0-2 record against Texas will invite more scrutiny if Texas A&M cannot flip the script on that renewed rivalry. Still, Elko has emerged as a common-sense voice on the college-football landscape. This is the right spot."Texas A&M's winless record against the Texas Longhorns is an issue that needs to be remedied this season, hosting their rivals in Kyle Field, and in agreement with writer Bill Bender, Elko's recent quote regarding the potential CFP expansion is just more proof that he, among several other prominent coaches, aren't about sound bites, but common sense when it comes to the game we all cherish.Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Mike Elko ranked No. 11 in Sporting News' CFB head coach rankings

The Raine Group's expertise in securing institutional credibility, creating investor value, and pioneering privatisation in new markets has made it a prominent player in cricket's unpredictable global financial landscape. Given their connection with the Indian Premier League (IPL) dating back to when the BCCI first envisioned an exercise of this scale, Raine's familiarity with the sport has only grown stronger.The England & Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) appointment of the Raine Group, alongside financial advisers Deloitte, to manage private investments for The Hundred franchises—where Raine's mandate was to lead the transaction processes end-to-end -- and Rajasthan Royals later appointing Raine as sell-side advisors for their recent, successful sale process has cemented what the globally integrated merchant bank first envisioned.In 2007-08, the Raine Group first began understanding Indian cricket when -- as then advisors of the International Management Group (IMG) -- they were invited to work closely with BCCI officials and some IPL franchise owners to establish a vision map for the T20 league. Ever since, their engagement with cricket has only grown over the years."At the time, we had a view on the opportunity, but none of us fully anticipated the scale of success the sport would go on to achieve—the level of value creation, wealth creation, and global relevance that cricket, and particularly the IPL, has developed over the years," says Jeff Sine, the co-founder and partner at Raine.While Raine primarily built its reputation in football, motorsports and entertainment, the last 24 months saw them make a deliberate and consequential pivot into cricket with The Hundred and the Royals.In mid-2024, the ECB brought Raine on board to manage the private investment process for The Hundred's eight franchises. Their mandate was to lead the transaction process end-to-end: sourcing prospective investors globally, structuring the deal, and negotiating investment terms.Within a year of the ECB commissioning them, the process was completed, with partnerships around The Hundred's franchises garnering a collective value in excess of £975 million, and more than £500 million in proceeds for English and Welsh cricket alongside a dedicated £50 million commitment to grassroots cricket.Going forward, when stakeholders in the United Kingdom look back at what helped English cricket generate its own financial independence, Raine's participation in pulling investors from across the globe -- IPL franchise owners, NFL proprietors, Silicon Valley tech consortia, and Indian conglomerates -- will remain the benchmark.Jason Schretter, Partner and Co-Head of EMEA at Raine, says, "The Hundred was a fantastic process and really opened our eyes to both the global investor interest in the sport and the structural opportunity within cricket as an asset class."The success of The Hundred process further reinforced Raine's growing focus on cricket, which subsequently extended to the IPL through its advisory role on the Rajasthan Royals’ recent sale process. Following a competitive process involving several global financial and strategic investors, the transaction was ultimately led by Lakshmi N. Mittal, who acquired a majority stake, alongside Adar Poonawalla as a minority investor. The outcome was a 6x+ appreciation in franchise value in under five years with the sale valued at over US$1. 6b.A recurring question around this subject is whether these valuations are justified. Schretter says: "When I'm asked that question, my response is that we can very clearly justify these valuations. There is a strong underlying rationale." His argument rests both on media rights and other commercial revenue streams: "Media rights are likely to continue growing meaningfully. We have strong conviction that this is a key driver of future value along with sponsorships, merchandising and hospitality becoming more significant in the future."The IPL's current broadcast deal (2023–2027) is worth $6.2 billion. The franchise ecosystem is also global—in the Royals' case, the acquirer gains ownership of Paarl Royals (SA20) and Barbados Royals (CPL), amplifying the multi-league commercial opportunity. Raine's investment thesis is grounded in these structural tailwinds, not speculation.Raine recently hosted an event in Mumbai to celebrate its recent successes in Cricket. The gathering, which brought together stakeholders from across the sports ecosystem, echoed Raine’s conviction about cricket's growing relevance as a global asset class.While cricket has emerged as a significant focus area for Raine, it represents just one part of their broader strategy to identify and shape opportunities across media, entertainment and technology in India and around the world.

The National Football League and the Green Bay Packers are criticizing Wisconsin's U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald for leading a hearing scrutinizing the Sports Broadcasting Act, a decades-old law the Packers say is crucial to their survival.Wisconsin's members of Congress have lined up on opposite sides of the issue, with Rep. Tony Wied from Green Bay leading a bipartisan letter urging the House Judiciary Committee, which includes three Wisconsin Republicans, to keep the law as is to protect small-market teams.Fitzgerald, who chairs the House Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust Subcommittee that held a Wednesday, June 10 hearing, argues the 1961 law was enacted in a different media landscape. He says it's Congress' job to examine whether the law's antitrust carveout is now harming consumers, who have to pay for multiple streaming services."The [SBA] was designed to facilitate the distribution of games through free, over-the-air television," Fitzgerald said at the hearing. "It was not intended to provide a perpetual shield for leagues to coordinate the sale of media rights across every new technology and distribution platform that emerges. Yet, that is effectively what has happened."But Fitzgerald's role has made him a target of backlash from the NFL – and his home-state team.In a June 8 call with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller called it "a bit quizzical" why Fitzgerald and the committee are "taking a look at something that has worked so well, for so many years, for fans and the NFL.""I don't know why a congressman from Wisconsin is pursuing an eight-month investigation [into a law] that works to the great benefit of his constituents, the city of Green Bay, the state of Wisconsin and the Green Bay Packers," said Miller, a Wisconsin native.What is the Sports Broadcasting Act, and why do the Packers say it's necessary?Under the law, the league collectively negotiates contracts with TV networks and distributes the revenue equally among all 32 teams. The Packers say the current model helps them compete on the same level as teams from larger markets.Aaron Popkey, the Packers' director of public affairs, said the uncertainty over what Congress plans to revise in the SBA should concern fans."The financial future of the small-market club would be at jeopardy," Popkey said. "You've seen us refer to this as an existential threat, and that's truly what it is."If the law is overhauled, as the Packers and the NFL fear, teams would be left to seek their own distribution agreements. Large-market teams like the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams could strike bigger deals than small-market teams like the Packers.In Miller's view, that could result in 32 different distributors and further increase prices for fans."The SBA ensures what we think is an incredibly efficient and fan-friendly market," he said.Fitzgerald has said modernizing the law wouldn't affect the revenue-sharing model, calling it a "red herring" raised by the NFL. Asked by the Journal Sentinel how much keeping the Packers in Green Bay weighs into his considerations about updating the law, Fitzgerald said "zero.""The teams have really nothing to say in this area that the league couldn't represent," Fitzgerald said in an interview. "I really don't care how they divide up the pie amongst the teams, and the NFL is the example of, the league runs everything."The Judiciary Committee released an interim report two days before the hearing, noting its oversight "may inform legislative reforms" to the SBA but didn't detail what those might include. The full committee and Fitzgerald's subcommittee began investigating NFL broadcasting practices in August.The NFL says 87% of their games are available on broadcast TV, though the committee's report pokes holes in those numbers. The league also touts free access in home markets. In Wisconsin, that includes the Green Bay and Milwaukee areas but excludes other regions, which members of Congress have attempted to address.Members of the subcommittee scrutinized the NFL Sunday Ticket service that fans use to watch out-of-market games, which costs $186 per season. In the hearing, Fitzgerald added that NFL's deal with Netflix was the "straw that broke the camel's back."More: 'It is overwhelming': Wisconsin sports bars navigate confusion, pay big bucks to air NFL gamesThe U.S. Department of Justice is also investigating the NFL for possible anticompetitive tactics over concerns that consumers can't affordably watch games.NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell declined an invitation to testify before the subcommittee June 10, which Fitzgerald said didn't surprise him. Fitzgerald added he's talked to the NFL's government relations team "along the way."Where Wisconsin's members of Congress stand on the SBAWied, who represents northeastern Wisconsin, and Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden, representing western Wisconsin, signed a letter urging the committee to "preserve the SBA's core protections while maintaining appropriate oversight."Wied co-led the letter with Rep. Tim Kennedy, a Democrat who represents Buffalo, New York, another small-market NFL city. Fitzgerald, who represents areas west of Milwaukee, argued the NFL has leverage to have each of its teams lobby their members of Congress.Republican U.S. Rep. Tiffany, who's running for governor, didn't provide new comments for this story. His spokeswoman previously said he hasn't spoken on the SBA because NFL officials hadn't testified. At least one of his Democratic opponents, Mandela Barnes, criticized Tiffany for not coming out stronger on the issue.Tiffany and Republican Rep. Glenn Grothman both serve on the full House Judiciary Committee looking at the Sports Broadcasting Act. Grothman didn't respond to a request for comment on his stance by deadline; neither did Republican Rep. Bryan Steil, Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan, Democratic Rep. Gwen Moore or Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson.Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin has introduced separate legislation addressing consumer complaints. In part, the bill would prohibit game blackouts on league-owned streaming services. But her office says she supports the Packers' efforts to keep the SBA intact."Watching our Green and Gold has never been this complicated or expensive – and it’s because these billionaire-owned streaming giants and the NFL have created a complicated and expensive maze of subscriptions," Baldwin said in a statement. "The solution is not to bankrupt the Packers – it’s to pass my bill to make sure Wisconsinites in every part of the state can watch the Packers games in one place and for free."More: Tammy Baldwin targets game blackouts, expensive sports streaming appsHope Karnopp can be reached at HKarnopp@usatodayco.com.This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why NFL, Packers are going head-to-head with a Wisconsin Republican

The National Football League and the Green Bay Packers are criticizing Wisconsin's U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald for leading a hearing scrutinizing the Sports Broadcasting Act, a decades-old law the Packers say is crucial to their survival.Wisconsin's members of Congress have lined up on opposite sides of the issue, with Rep. Tony Wied from Green Bay leading a bipartisan letter urging the House Judiciary Committee, which includes three Wisconsin Republicans, to keep the law as is to protect small-market teams.Fitzgerald, who chairs the House Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust Subcommittee that held a Wednesday, June 10 hearing, argues the 1961 law was enacted in a different media landscape. He says it's Congress' job to examine whether the law's antitrust carveout is now harming consumers, who have to pay for multiple streaming services."The [SBA] was designed to facilitate the distribution of games through free, over-the-air television," Fitzgerald said at the hearing. "It was not intended to provide a perpetual shield for leagues to coordinate the sale of media rights across every new technology and distribution platform that emerges. Yet, that is effectively what has happened."But Fitzgerald's role has made him a target of backlash from the NFL – and his home-state team.In a June 8 call with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller called it "a bit quizzical" why Fitzgerald and the committee are "taking a look at something that has worked so well, for so many years, for fans and the NFL.""I don't know why a congressman from Wisconsin is pursuing an eight-month investigation [into a law] that works to the great benefit of his constituents, the city of Green Bay, the state of Wisconsin and the Green Bay Packers," said Miller, a Wisconsin native.What is the Sports Broadcasting Act, and why do the Packers say it's necessary?Under the law, the league collectively negotiates contracts with TV networks and distributes the revenue equally among all 32 teams. The Packers say the current model helps them compete on the same level as teams from larger markets.Aaron Popkey, the Packers' director of public affairs, said the uncertainty over what Congress plans to revise in the SBA should concern fans."The financial future of the small-market club would be at jeopardy," Popkey said. "You've seen us refer to this as an existential threat, and that's truly what it is."If the law is overhauled, as the Packers and the NFL fear, teams would be left to seek their own distribution agreements. Large-market teams like the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams could strike bigger deals than small-market teams like the Packers.In Miller's view, that could result in 32 different distributors and further increase prices for fans."The SBA ensures what we think is an incredibly efficient and fan-friendly market," he said.Fitzgerald has said modernizing the law wouldn't affect the revenue-sharing model, calling it a "red herring" raised by the NFL. Asked by the Journal Sentinel how much keeping the Packers in Green Bay weighs into his considerations about updating the law, Fitzgerald said "zero.""The teams have really nothing to say in this area that the league couldn't represent," Fitzgerald said in an interview. "I really don't care how they divide up the pie amongst the teams, and the NFL is the example of, the league runs everything."The Judiciary Committee released an interim report two days before the hearing, noting its oversight "may inform legislative reforms" to the SBA but didn't detail what those might include. The full committee and Fitzgerald's subcommittee began investigating NFL broadcasting practices in August.The NFL says 87% of their games are available on broadcast TV, though the committee's report pokes holes in those numbers. The league also touts free access in home markets. In Wisconsin, that includes the Green Bay and Milwaukee areas but excludes other regions, which members of Congress have attempted to address.Members of the subcommittee scrutinized the NFL Sunday Ticket service that fans use to watch out-of-market games, which costs $186 per season. In the hearing, Fitzgerald added that NFL's deal with Netflix was the "straw that broke the camel's back."More: 'It is overwhelming': Wisconsin sports bars navigate confusion, pay big bucks to air NFL gamesThe U.S. Department of Justice is also investigating the NFL for possible anticompetitive tactics over concerns that consumers can't affordably watch games.NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell declined an invitation to testify before the subcommittee June 10, which Fitzgerald said didn't surprise him. Fitzgerald added he's talked to the NFL's government relations team "along the way."Where Wisconsin's members of Congress stand on the SBAWied, who represents northeastern Wisconsin, and Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden, representing western Wisconsin, signed a letter urging the committee to "preserve the SBA's core protections while maintaining appropriate oversight."Wied co-led the letter with Rep. Tim Kennedy, a Democrat who represents Buffalo, New York, another small-market NFL city. Fitzgerald, who represents areas west of Milwaukee, argued the NFL has leverage to have each of its teams lobby their members of Congress.Republican U.S. Rep. Tiffany, who's running for governor, didn't provide new comments for this story. His spokeswoman previously said he hasn't spoken on the SBA because NFL officials hadn't testified. At least one of his Democratic opponents, Mandela Barnes, criticized Tiffany for not coming out stronger on the issue.Tiffany and Republican Rep. Glenn Grothman both serve on the full House Judiciary Committee looking at the Sports Broadcasting Act. Grothman didn't respond to a request for comment on his stance by deadline; neither did Republican Rep. Bryan Steil, Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan, Democratic Rep. Gwen Moore or Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson.Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin has introduced separate legislation addressing consumer complaints. In part, the bill would prohibit game blackouts on league-owned streaming services. But her office says she supports the Packers' efforts to keep the SBA intact."Watching our Green and Gold has never been this complicated or expensive – and it’s because these billionaire-owned streaming giants and the NFL have created a complicated and expensive maze of subscriptions," Baldwin said in a statement. "The solution is not to bankrupt the Packers – it’s to pass my bill to make sure Wisconsinites in every part of the state can watch the Packers games in one place and for free."More: Tammy Baldwin targets game blackouts, expensive sports streaming appsHope Karnopp can be reached at HKarnopp@usatodayco.com.This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why NFL, Packers are going head-to-head with a Wisconsin Republican

Donald Trump told reporters at the Oval Office today that he loves inflation when asked about new Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) this morning. Earlier today, the BLS released the latest CPI for the month, based on its study of prices for goods and services in the U.S. The report found an annualized inflation rate of 4.2%, higher than the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation target and a three-year high. Related Trump slammed as “psychologically incontinent” by former GOP operative “No, I love it, the numbers are great,” Trump told a reporter who asked him about rising inflation. “You know what I really love? I love the inflation.” He explained that he loves inflation because “as soon as this war is over, you know I can say it now… you know we’ve been taking out millions of barrels of oil.” Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today “Nobody knows it. You know who doesn’t know about it? Iran, until right now,” he continued. He claimed that “we took out, the other night, 22 ships… we blasted the crap out of them,” which seemed to imply that he meant “taking out” to mean “destroying.” It’s not clear how destroying oil tankers would reduce prices. If anything, diminishing the world’s oil supply will only increase energy prices. But it’s also possible that he meant that the U.S. was destroying Iranian ships so that oil tankers could pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The White House has not responded to a request for comment, but this article will be updated if they do. Q: Are you concerned about the latest inflation numbers that came out this morning?TRUMP: No, I love it. I love the inflation. You know why? Because as soon as this war is over — do you know we've been taking out millions of barrels of oil? Nobody knows it. You know who… pic.twitter.com/MBSarLP1ph— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 10, 2026 On social media, Trump was criticized for saying he loves inflation. Trump on inflation: "I love it."People can't afford to feed their families. Your struggle is a joke to him. https://t.co/O5dprmvN3g— JB Pritzker (@JBPritzker) June 10, 2026 When will MAGA realize Trump does not care about the average American, only himself and his wealthy buddies?— Vince Wilson (@VinceWilsonShow) June 10, 2026 well as long as he’s happy i’m sure it’ll be fine https://t.co/GnFnv0fPWm— onion person (@CantEverDie) June 10, 2026 And Democrats just won the midterms https://t.co/Engs3p1zBc— Jessica Tarlov (@JessicaTarlov) June 10, 2026 "I love the inflation"went from a president bragging about $1.85/gal to "loving" $4.00+ gas??? https://t.co/4gyc0DWD9h— Patrick De Haan (@GasBuddyGuy) June 10, 2026 Trump just admitted he “loves the inflation.”He loves making your costs skyrocket. He loves being $4 billion richer at your expense. https://t.co/X4FqZR6Xyp— Katherine Clark (@WhipKClark) June 10, 2026 amazing messaging https://t.co/y9EqqVjDmX— Neera Tanden (@neeratanden) June 10, 2026 From the man who proudly said, “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation. I don’t think about anybody.” https://t.co/2gKf95xCPZ— James Singer (@Jemsinger) June 10, 2026 We're going to have big beautiful inflation! https://t.co/tZwkKZVybm— Dilan Esper (@dilanesper) June 10, 2026 The media would make sure that this would be the end of Biden's presidency. https://t.co/LAF8JqiFtJ— Panican Skywalker (@ThomasJCarcetti) June 10, 2026 I look forward random X user MAGAPatriot1776 telling me why inflation is good, actually. https://t.co/C7wQPLocev— Brandan P. Buck (@brandan_buck) June 10, 2026 Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Arizona head coach Becky Burke at the Big 12 Women’s Basketball Tournament during a first-round game against Arizona State. Mar. 4, 2026 in Kansas City, MO | Photo by Big 12 Confer ence/Denny Medley Arizona women’s basketball head coach Becky Burke continues to fill out her staff as players prepare to arrive in Tucson for summer workouts. Move-in date for the players is set for this weekend. When they arrive, there will be a new performance enhancement coach. The program announced the hiring of Emily Meinert on Wednesday morning.Welcome to the Wildcat Family, Emily Meinert! 🐻⬇️🗞️🔗: https://t.co/dax0yqpoCypic.twitter.com/UkEiav9YSW— Arizona Basketball (@ArizonaWBB) June 10, 2026Meinert spent the last two seasons working with the New Mexico women’s basketball team on strength and conditioning. “Her experience working directly with women’s basketball student-athletes, combined with her energy, passion and commitment to player development, makes her a tremendous addition to our staff,” Burke was quoted in the program’s press release.“Meinert was a graduate assistant and assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Louisiana Monroe prior to joining the staff at New Mexico. She worked with women’s basketball, softball, and men’s and women’s golf during her time at ULM. She simultaneously earned her master’s degree in applied exercise science from the institution.Meinert played basketball for three years at Northern Illinois and two at Parkland College. At NIU, she also worked with the strength and conditioning staff assisting with daily operations and athlete development initiatives.

Vardy: Playing in Italy ‘was a struggle, moving abroad is really, really tough’Jamie Vardy is back in the UK after spending the 2025-26 season with Cremonese, has made it clear that he does not intend to return to Italy, and says that moving to Serie A was a ‘struggle, moving abroad with a family is really, really tough’.Vardy joined Cremonese on a free transfer last summer after calling it a day on a 13-year stint with his beloved Leicester City.He would go on to score seven goals and provide three assists from 29 appearances in Serie A in 2025-26, but this was not enough to avoid relegation to Serie B, as Cremonese finished the season in 18th place on 343 points from 38 matches.Recent reports indicated that Vardy would not stay on with Cremonese for their Serie B campaign in 2025-26, and speaking on his newly-launched ‘Jamie Vardy’s Having a Party’ podcast, the Englishman did not paint a pretty picture of his time living in Italy.Vardy criticises training and sporting directors in Italy: ‘You go into a game and you’re f***ed’Vardy spoke about the struggle he felt moving his family abroad. He has four children and two step-children, said that he felt ‘guilty’ about moving his children out of their schools and away from home, and revealed that he had already moved his family back to the UK before the end of his Cremonese stint.Asked whether it was good to be back on home soil, Vardy said: “Very nice. We’d already moved the kids back, it was a struggle, really was.”The issues that Vardy had in Italy were not just with his family, though. Vardy was highly critical of the way that teams in Italy train and the influence that sporting directors have over the clubs.CREMONA, ITALY – MAY 10: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese celebrates after scoring the 1-0 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Pisa SC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on May 10, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)“Compared to here (England), it’s a lot slower, more defensive,” Vardy said when analysing the style of play in Serie A.“Training was just constant: Run, run, run, run. You go into a game and you’re f***ed. Like literally, you have nothing else left to give. It’s not just for me, it’s every team.“So how it works is that the sporting director has a say in everything. Everything. It’s mental.“I remember, I have to laugh about it, we played Bologna away. So that week, for Bologna, we did what we’d normally do in the UK, we had a day off after the game. We went into that game fresh as hell. Away from home, win 3-1. Everyone’s buzzing.BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Jamie Vardy of Cremonese scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Cremonese at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)“So in my head, I’m like ‘well, just keep it now, do exactly the same’. Then we were playing Pisa the week after. The sporting director says ‘it’s a massive game, massive game’. I’m like ‘well, they’re all massive, no game’s any different’. ‘No, no, but this one’s big‘.“They trained us every single day, played Pisa, lost.”

Notre Dame football has a fantastic 2027 recruiting class, and on Wednesday one of the current commits was ranked as a 5-star by 247Sports. Offensive tackle Oluwasemilore Olubobola checked in at No. 17 overall, the third highest player ranked at his position. The 6-foot, 6-inch and 295-pounder committed to the Irish in the middle of May, as the mauler from New Jersey kept the pipeline to the East open. Notre Dame has put plenty of emphasis on recruiting that region, with recent signees of safety Joey O’Brien, cornerback Khary Adams, offensive tackles Grayson McKeogh and Charlie Thom. There is plenty of potential for another one in the 2027 class as well, as recently the Irish received a crystal ball pick for 5-star edge Abraham Sesay.If he was to commit, it would give Notre Dame two 5-star verbals according to the 247Sports rankings, one on each side of the ball. NEW Top 32 Players in the 2027 Rankings Update! A FULL field of 5-stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ pic.twitter.com/7WVZR9hDXm— 247Sports (@247Sports) June 10, 2026Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.Follow Mike on X: @MikeFChenThis article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Notre Dame football 2027 commit ranked as a 5-star by 247Sports

Finding value in FIFA World Cup Fantasy is just as important as selecting the premium stars. While the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Lamine Yamal are expected to feature heavily in managers’ squads, the real challenge lies in identifying affordable players capable of delivering returns without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best budget picks from Round 1 who could provide excellent value for money.Unai Simon (Spain) – Goalkeeper ($5.0m)Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón could prove to be one of the smartest budget-friendly picks for Round 1. Spain enter their opening fixture against Cape Verde as overwhelming favourites, which immediately boosts his clean-sheet prospects. While goalkeepers from dominant teams may not always rack up save points, the likelihood of defensive returns alone makes him an attractive option. At $5.0m, he offers a relatively affordable route into one of the strongest defences in the tournament and could reward managers with a solid points haul if Spain perform as expected.Nuno Mendes (Portugal) – Defender ($5.8m)Nuno Mendes is the definition of a modern fantasy defender. While many managers will focus solely on clean sheets, the Portuguese full-back offers multiple routes to points through his attacking contributions. Portugal’s opening fixture against Congo DR looks favourable on paper, and Mendes has the pace and technical quality to consistently get forward and create chances. At $5.8m, he is more expensive than a traditional budget defender, but his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch gives him the potential to justify every penny.Achraf Hakimi (Morocco) – Defender ($6m)Hakimi’s price feels surprisingly affordable given his attacking threat. The Moroccan full-back regularly operates almost like a winger and remains one of the most dangerous defenders in international football. Goals, assists and clean sheets are all within his range of outcomes, making him one of the standout value defenders in the game.Amir Murillo (Panama) – Defender ($5.0m)Murillo could emerge as one of the biggest bargains in the defensive category. Panama enter their clash against Ghana as favourites, and the centre-back’s modest price tag makes him an appealing option for managers searching for cheap access to Panama’s defence. While clean-sheet points are the main attraction, Murillo also possesses the physical presence to cause problems from corners and free kicks, providing an additional route to fantasy returns.Ronald Araújo (Uruguay) – Defender ($5.0m)Uruguay’s Ronald Araújo combines defensive reliability with occasional attacking threat, making him one of the safest budget defenders available. His side faces Saudi Arabia in Round 1, a fixture that gives Uruguay strong clean-sheet prospects. Araújo’s aerial dominance also makes him a danger during set pieces, meaning he has the potential to contribute at both ends of the pitch. At $5.0m, he offers excellent value compared to many similarly priced defenders.Lamine Yamal (Spain) – Midfielder ($10.0m)Despite his young age, Lamine Yamal has already established himself as one of the most exciting attacking talents in world football. Spain’s winger possesses the creativity, flair and directness that fantasy managers crave, and his opening fixture against Cape Verde gives him an excellent opportunity to make an immediate impact. Yamal’s ability to beat defenders, create chances and score goals means he can deliver points in several different ways. Although priced among the premium midfielders, his ceiling is enormous, and he could easily emerge as one of the standout performers of the opening round.Ousmane Dembélé (France) – Midfielder ($10.0m)Although slightly more expensive than a traditional budget option, Ousmane Dembélé still represents excellent value given his attacking upside. The French winger is capable of producing points through both goals and assists, and his ability to create chances makes him a dangerous fantasy asset in every fixture. Against Senegal, he has the quality to deliver immediate returns, making him an attractive option for managers who want premium-level output without paying a premium price.Bruno Fernandes (Portugal) – Midfielder ($8.5m)Bruno Fernandes enters the tournament as one of Portugal’s most important attacking players and a strong alternative to some of the more heavily-owned premium midfielders. Set pieces, penalties, assists and goals are all part of his fantasy arsenal, making him one of the most complete midfield options in the game. Facing Congo DR in Round 1, Bruno will be expected to dictate play and create numerous opportunities for Portugal’s forwards. While his price tag requires a significant investment, his consistency and involvement make him one of the safest midfield picks available.Omar Marmoush (Egypt) – Forward ($7.8m)Omar Marmoush could prove to be one of the standout value forwards of the opening round. As one of Egypt’s primary attacking threats, he is likely to be heavily involved whenever his side creates scoring opportunities. Although Egypt face a challenging fixture against Belgium, Marmoush has demonstrated the ability to produce moments of quality against stronger opposition. At $7.8m, he offers significant upside for managers looking to save money in attack.Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – Forward ($10.0m)Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the biggest names in international football, and fantasy managers will once again be hoping he can deliver on the grand stage. Portugal’s captain continues to be the focal point of their attack, with many of the team’s scoring opportunities ultimately falling his way. The Round 1 clash against Congo DR appears favourable, and Ronaldo’s penalty-taking duties further increase his appeal. At $10.0m, he commands a premium price, but few players possess his proven goalscoring pedigree. Even at this stage of his career, he remains capable of producing the decisive moments that can define a fantasy gameweek.

Aston Villa want Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to replace Emiliano MartinezAston Villa have Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki on their radar if they have to replace Emiliano Martinez this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Villa hero has been linked with a move away from the Villa Park club again, and Villans manager Unai Emery is preparing for life without him. Juventus want Martinez and are in talks with his representatives, but club-to-club talks have not started. Villa have been scouting Suzuki for several months, with two other options on their radar.The 23-year-old Japan international was once linked with Manchester United and a move to the Premier League could be on the cards. The Villa target boasts ‘unbelievable reflexes’ and can also launch long throws for counterattack purposes. Suzuki is known for throwing balls 20 metres over the halfway line and the Villans could do with such a skill. He is also comfortable on the ball and Emery needs a ball-playing goalie to replace Martinez if need be.

Federal agents are there for security, not immigration enforcement, officials say. But trust is fragile after the administration’s recent crackdowns.

When a son got curious about the origins of a painting his mother bought at a secondhand shop decades ago, Google Gemini had some intriguing thoughts.

A new politics of morality is rising in the Democratic Party.

MEXICO CITY (AP) — FIFA's Gianni Infantino defends World Cup pricing, says average ticket price is comparable to US pro sports playoffs.

Yahoo users are largely united about how the group stage of the 2026 World Cup will go.A team in 11 of the 12 groups has been picked by at least 70% of entries in Yahoo Sports’ Soccer Pick ‘Em with Fox One. In our pick ‘em for the World Cup, users select who they think will win each of the 12 groups ahead of the tournament’s first game on Thursday. Then, after the group stage concludes and 32 of the tournament’s 48 teams move on to the knockout rounds, users can then pick the results of each of the 31 elimination games.There’s still time to enter before Mexico and South Korea play at 3 p.m. ET on Thursday (Fox). Here are the teams getting an overwhelming amount of support from fans on Yahoo.Group AMexico (82%)Mexico has -115 betting odds to win Group A and will play all three games of the group stage at home. The No. 2 pick is South Korea at 10%.Group BSwitzerland (64%)The only team getting less than 70% is the Swiss. They’re in a group with Canada, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Qatar. Like Mexico, Canada’s group games will all be at home and the Canadians are the No. 2 pick of the group with 30%.Group CBrazil (90%)Both Haiti and Scotland are getting just 1% of picks. Morocco, which finished fourth at the 2022 World Cup and won the African Cup of Nations earlier this year, is second with 7%.Group DUnited States (70%)The U.S. isn’t in the Mexico and Brazil stratosphere thanks to a relatively even group. Türkiye is the No. 2 pick at 22% even though it snuck into the World Cup in one of the final playoff spots. The United States is +105 to win the group while Turkey is the No. 2 favorite at +230. Paraguay, at +320 to win Group D, has just 6% of picks.Group EGermany (92%)There does not seem to be much doubt that Germany will make it out of the group stage for the first time since 2014. If you’re not sold on the Germans, a great dark horse pick will be Ecuador. They’re getting just 5% of users to back them even though they’re +310 to win the group and allowed all of five goals in World Cup qualifying.Group FNetherlands (80%)The Dutch are -120 to win Group F ahead of a Japan team that would be very well-positioned for a deep World Cup run without some untimely injuries. Japan’s odds would be much better if Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino were available.Group GBelgium (92%)Nearly everyone thinks Belgium has a very favorable path to the knockout rounds. No one else in the group is getting more than 4% of picks. That’s Egypt, while Iran and New Zealand are each getting 2%.Group HSpain (94%)Spain has the best odds of anyone to win a group at -310 and are the World Cup favorites overall at +450. A group that includes Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay looks so manageable that the Euro 2024 champions could be extra cautious and hold out Yamine Lamal for the entire group stage as he recovers from the hamstring injury he suffered for Barcelona.Users are not bullish on these teams.Group IFrance (91%)This expanded World Cup’s version of a Group of Death has a clear favorite. The French are -180 to win the group and the No. 2 favorites to win the tournament behind Spain at +500. Norway, which is +250 to win the group, is getting picked by 6% of users and Senegal, at +750 to win the group, has just 2%. If you want to go against the grain, Senegal to top the group isn’t a terrible option.Group JArgentina (95%)The defending World Cup champions are getting the most backing of any team to win the group stage. That’s undoubtedly helped by the Lionel Messi effect. Austria (+400 to win Group J) are being picked by 2%.Group KPortugal (75%)This number might be the most surprising given how strong Portugal’s team looks. But 23% of users are eyeing Colombia and Luis Diaz to top the group. The Colombians missed the World Cup in 2022 but made it to the knockout rounds in both 2014 and 2018.Group LEngland (85%)Is this the year England finally breaks its World Cup drought? Granted, that question has been asked every four years for decades at this point. The Three Lions are -240 to win Group K while an incredibly experienced Croatia squad that has finished second and third at the last two World Cups is getting 12% of picks to win Group L.Will Kylian Mbappé score the most goals in the first three games of the World Cup?Most goals scored in group stageFrance F Kylian Mbappé (33%)The France star has a significant plurality ahead of England’s Harry Kane (20%) and Norway’s Erling Haaland (18%). Messi is at 8% along with Yamal, though as we mentioned earlier, he might not see much action in the group stage.

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 06: Virginia Cavaliers defensive tackle Jahmeer Carter (90) during the ACC Championship football game between the Virginia Cavaliers and the Duke Blue Devils on December 6, 2025 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Next up is another rookie undrafted free agent in defensive tackle Jahmeer Carter!The BasicsHeight: 6’2Weight: 311 poundsCollege: VirginiaExperience: RookieCarter starred at Bishop Spalding High School under head coach Kyle Schmitt. He was a three-time First-Team All-County selection and was the recipient of the 2019 Al Laramore Trophy, given annually to the No. 1 lineman in Anne Arundel County.In 2020, Carter was one of 12 true freshman to see game time at the University of Virginia. He played in nine games, recording 14 tackles with a half tackle for loss and a half sack. He earned a starting job in 2021, beginning 10 contests and playing in all 12 games that season (23 tackles, two tackles for loss, pass breakup).From 2022-2024, Carter started all 34 games he played in, amassing 97 total tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, a pass breakup, and a fumble recovery.In his final season with the Cavaliers, Carter started all 14 games, finishing with 30 tackles and one tackle for loss.After going undrafted in 2026, Carter was signed by the Chargers as a UDFA.The GoodCarter brings a ton of starting experience after a six-year collegiate career. He did show progress with every new season but showed to be much more of a run-stopper than a pass rusher. While that’s not the flashier skillset, it could help him find a spot on the practice squad if he’s able to eat double-teams and close gaps for his rushers around him.The BadCarter went six seasons in college without truly having any sort of breakout season. His stats were fairly static in all five of his starting season which gives a decent amount of confidence that he’s likely found his ceiling as a player.2026 OutlookThe defensive tackle room is stuffed to the brim after all of the Chargers’ additions this offseason. They drafted Nick Barrett in the fifth round and signed veteran Dalvin Tomlinson. There are now 10 total interior lineman on the team and the expectation is that they’ll keep roughly six bodies (starters and backups for all three spots in their base defense). It also doesn’t help Webb that one of the other UDFAs is a similar defensive tackle with a similar skillset to his.

Indianapolis Colts receiver Alec Pierce, who played college football for the University of Cincinnati Bearcats, said on June 10 that he still faces many weeks of recovery from left ankle surgery he underwent in March, per ESPN's Stephen Holder.The return timeline could keep Pierce out well into training camp and past the NFL preseason, Holder said.The Cincinnati Bengals are scheduled to face the Colts in Indianapolis during the 2026 season but not until Week 16.In March, Pierce agreed to a four-year, $114-million contract extension with Indianapolis. Days earlier, Colts defensive back Sauce Gardner, Pierce's UC teammate from 2019 to 2021, lobbied for the Colts to re-sign Pierce.Pierce has played his first four NFL seasons for the Colts and had a career-best 47 catches for 1,003 receiving yards in 2025.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Alec Pierce, Colts WR, faces weeks of recovery from ankle surgery

Jul 27, 2024; Renton, WA, USA; Football fans watch Seattle Seahawk training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images The waiting is almost over, Seattle Seahawks fans! You’ll soon get your first view of the reigning Super Bowl champions through their public training camps.On Wednesday, the Seahawks announced nine practices at Virginia Mason Athletic Center in Renton. The first practice will be Saturday, July 25, and for all we know they might have HBO’s Hard Knocks filming there. Public training camp viewings end on Thursday, Aug. 13, which is the week of the preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys.Seattle Seahawks 2026 training camp dates(All times pacific, of course)Saturday, July 25 (1:00 pm) Sunday, July 26 (1:00 pm)Tuesday, July 28 (1:00 pm) – Season Ticket Holder Day (and their guests)Friday, July 31 (1:00 pm) Saturday, Aug. 1 (1:00 pm) – Back Together WeekendTuesday, Aug. 4 (1:00 pm) – Kids DayWednesday, Aug. 5 (1:00 pm)Friday, Aug. 7 (9:45 am) – Season Ticket Holder Day (and their guests)Saturday, Aug. 8 (5:20 pm) – Football Fest at Lumen FieldThursday, Aug. 13 (1:00 pm) – Kids DayRegistration is open to the public on Tuesday, June 16. Tickets to the Renton training camps are free, but there is a standard $15 transportation fee to take the shuttle to VMAC from The Landing.Field Gulls was on site for one training camp and the Lumen Field Fan Fest last year, joined by my Seahawks Syndicate co-hosts Bryce Coutts, Dan Viens, and Brandon Cain. We plan to be back again this year but we’re nailing down the training camp dates, with special live podcasts from Downtown Seattle in which you would be invited to attend if you’re in the area! Details coming soon.

Justice came for 19-year-old Ajani Grimes on Tuesday when he was sentenced to at least 25 years in prison for the murder of Laura Schueler, a 47-year-old trans woman. Grimes’s arrest in Schueler’s killing was the end of a months-long crime spree that started in October 2024, when prosecutors say the then-18-year-old stole a vehicle at gunpoint, striking the driver in the head and firing a single shot into the air. Related Remembering 366+ trans and gender-diverse lives lost in 2025: Trans Day of Remembrance Court records show Grimes was ordered to electronic monitoring while awaiting trial in the aggravated robbery case, but he cut his monitor sometime before Schueler’s murder. The judge revoked Grimes’s bond and issued an arrest warrant. It wasn’t executed in time to save Schueler’s life. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Grimes was finally arrested about a month after Schueler’s killing. Schueler was found dead in the early morning hours of June 7, 2025, after police received reports of gunfire in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood of Cincinnati. A call came in around 6:50 a.m. from the 1500 block of Jonathan Avenue, WLWT5 reported. Prosecutors say Grimes met with Schueler on the night of her death, and she entered his car. “I don’t know what happened in the car, but it was not something Miss Schueler wanted to continue to participate in,” one prosecutor shared. “She fled from the car, and Mr. Grimes got out of the car and shot her in the back of the head. He left her for dead on the side of the road.” Bullets fired in Grimes’s felonious assault and armed robbery case matched the ones that killed Schueler and led to the plea deal, prosecutors said. Grimes’ defense team agreed to a guilty plea for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, and multiple weapons charges. At the sentencing hearing, Grimes’s lawyer leaned on the perpetrator’s age and inexperience. “Mr. Grimes is 19 years old as he stands here today. He was 18 years old at the time of these crimes, a very young man. He has no prior adult criminal record to speak of, and obviously, we’re here because he’s made some terrible decisions and tragic mistakes,” his attorney said. Schueler’s friends and family were there, as well. “Laura was known by many for her LGBTQIA+ advocacy, but those of us who loved her knew something even greater. She was kind, giving, compassionate, used her voice not only for herself but for others who felt unseen or unheard,” Geno Griffith, Schueler’s cousin, told the court. “No sentence can restore the years, conversations, celebrations and memories that were taken from us, but her legacy will continue through those she’s touched,” Griffith said. Martez Meadows, a close friend of Schueler’s, said those who knew her were suffering. “I can’t call her no more. It’s nothing. She’s just gone now, and it hurts.” Meadows said. “And one more thing,” he told Grimes. “I hope you rot in hell.” Common Pleas Judge Robert Goering sentenced Grimes to 25 to 29 years in prison on all charges. At least 366 trans and gender-diverse people were lost to violence in the U.S. in 2025. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

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The last time Collin Morikawa played in the RBC Canadian Open was in 2019, when he made his professional debut. He’s won two majors and seven times on the PGA Tour and established himself as one of the best ballstrikers in the world. This week, the 29-year-old former Cal Bear returns north of the border as a proud papa for the first time.He and wife Kat welcomed their first child recently and Morikawa said he’s adjusting to the joys of parenthood.“I can stare at my little one just non-stop and kind of forget about what else is going on. I know at the same time I still have a job to do when I'm out here and that's what's great kind of being back,” he said on Wednesday during a press conference ahead of the RBC Canadian Open. “But at the same time, when I'm out there playing, you're kind of playing a little bit differently, your mind's in a different spot. I think I'm a lot more positive out there and hopefully I can kind of just allow my body to relax and go out and play golf and enjoy it again.”After an impressive victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Morikawa’s body has been a question mark ever since he withdrew one hole into the Players Championship with a back injury. He has finished inside the top 10 in half the events he’s played in this year, but the world No. 10 said the lingering back issue is still a work in progress.More: Collin Morikawa still has trust issues heading into PGA Championship“It still hadn't felt that comfortable,” he said, referring to his last start three weeks ago at the PGA Championship. “So, it was nice to take a full reset. And just focus on other things going on in life.”He added: “I wish the body was a little bit better, but it's just building in this trust. It's going to take some time. It's going to be hopefully tomorrow where everything feels a little bit more relaxed. But I'm still a little bit on edge just because I don't want it to happen again. I'm doing the right steps to prevent it, but when it happens like that it's in a sense a little bit of trauma that you just kind of have to deal with.”Morikawa withdrew from the Memorial Tournament, a place where he’s had a lot of success, and said it was tough to watch it on TV. He’s looking at this week as an opportunity to test out his swing under competitive conditions ahead of next week’s U.S. Open.“We’re checking the right boxes,” he told Golf Channel. “There's still a trust factor that I'm looking for that I'm trying to find this week.”And perhaps a few extra winks too.“I kind of took it for granted on the sleep thing. And that's a real thing,” he said. “I won't push it on my wife that I'm getting some great sleep out here. But your body gets used to taking 50-minute naps and learning how to run off that.”Adam Schupak is a senior writer for Golfweek, covering the PGA TourThis article originally appeared on Golfweek: Collin Morikawa returns to golf as a new father

England's friendly against Costa Rica was delayed by a lightning storm (Rich Storry)England's final World Cup warm-up friendly against Costa Rica was delayed on Wednesday after a heavy thunderstorm hit Orlando.Torrential rain and lightning left the pitch at the at the Inter&Co Stadium heavily waterlogged ahead of the planned 4pm (2000 GMT) kick-off time."Today's game against Costa Rica has been delayed due to weather conditions in Orlando. We'll provide further updates as soon as we have them," the English Football Association said in a statement.The match could be further delayed by another 30 minutes if there is another lightning strike within an eight-mile radius of the stadium.Delays were prominent feature of the Club World Cup in the United States 12 months ago and could have a major impact on the largest ever World Cup, which begins on Thursday.England chose to have two friendlies in Florida to acclimatise to the searing heat they will face once the tournament gets underway.The Three Lions will then travel to their base camp in Kansas City.Considered among the favourites despite not winning a major tournament for 60 years, England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.Thomas Tuchel's side also face Ghana and Panama in Group L.kca/mw

Cardinals rookie defensive lineman Kaleb Proctor is at some risk of missing the entire 2026 season. Head coach Mike LaFleur said at a Wednesday press conference that Proctor tore his meniscus during offseason workouts and is looking at an extended absence as he works his way back to playing condition. "He'll miss quite a bit of time if not — I don't want to say absolute — the whole year," LaFleur said.Proctor was a fourth-round pick in April after playing his college ball at Southeastern Louisiana. He had 43 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and nine sacks during the 2025 season. LaFleur said some other players suffered minor injuries this spring, but none that should be issues when the team gets back together for training camp.

NEW YORK (AP) — Victor Wembanyama does not think he has surpassed Trae Young as the biggest villain for New York Knicks fans at Madison Square Garden. Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night is another chance for Wemby to add to that legacy.Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs can even the series if they win again on the road like they did in Game 3. The 7-foot-4 big man from France took over Monday night with 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three blocks, including flying in to swat the ball off the backboard on what looked like an easy layup by Landry Shamet.He also caught the ire of the crowd in the form of a vulgar chant after fouling Karl-Anthony Towns with 9.6 seconds left in the first half. That was just one of several moments Wembanyama ticked off his opponents.During the first quarter, Wembanyama shoved Knicks guard Jalen Brunson in the head on a play that went uncalled. New York's Jose Alvarado said Monday that Wembanyama “got away with one,” and added, "That’ll be the last one.”Wembanyama was whistled for three personal fouls in Game 3.___AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

We know if Taylor Swift is actually a Knicks fan originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Taylor Swift is going to Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night as the New York Knicks host the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden.It raises an obvious question: Is she a Knicks fan?Swift saw the Knicks play in the Eastern Conference Final against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but that was with her betrothed Travis Kelce, who is from Cleveland Heights. So in that setting, the assumption was that they were rooting for the Cavs.The Knicks made it out of that series, though, and now hold a 2-1 lead in the Finals against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs.Swift is expected to attend Game 4 with friends, not Kelce, and it might actually be clear who they're rooting for.MORE: Here's why the WNBA champs aren't visiting the White HouseIs Taylor Swift a Knicks fan?An exclusive report claims that Swift is indeed a fan of the Knicks.Page Six writes, "She's a huge fan of the Knicks and really wants to be there to support them. She is going with friends."The website cites an anonymous source as providing that information.Kelce said on his recent podcast release that he wasn't trying to turn Swift into a Cleveland sports fan and just appreciated the chance at a "date night."Of course, it's notable that the Swift-Kelce wedding next month is planned for MSG, the same venue Swift will be in on Wednesday night.And apparently, she'll be rooting for the home team.Why isn't Travis Kelce there?Kelce's absence doesn't appear to have anything to do with the Knicks having beaten his preferred Cavaliers.Instead, the Kansas City Chiefs TE has mandatory minicamp getting rolling, and so he won't get to join in another date night.Swift is attending with friends instead.MORE: Charles Barkley dares ESPN to fire him over Cardi B comments

A dancer performs along Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, Saturday, June 6, 2026 ahead of the FIFA World Cup. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)2026-06-10T17:55:46Z After years of preparation, a supersized World Cup has finally arrived.This year’s tournament — which is hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico — was expanded to 48 teams that will play in 16 stadiums in a record 104 matches over the 39-day tournament.Mexico gets the World Cup started Thursday and will be a heavy favorite when it hosts South Africa in Mexico City. The second game of the day will be between South Korea and the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, Mexico. All four teams are part of Group A.Canada and the United States will host their first games Friday. The Canadians will play Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto while the Americans face Paraguay in Inglewood, California. What to watch June 11Fox is the exclusive U.S. broadcaster of the World Cup with all 104 matches in English on Fox or FS1. All matches are also available on the Fox One app. Telemundo and Universo will broadcast all of the matches in Spanish. Peacock is the streaming home for Spanish language broadcasts while Telemundo also has an app that includes all the matches.1. Mexico vs. South Africa, 3 p.m. ET in Mexico City (FOX/Telemundo/Peacock)2. South Korea vs. Czechia, 10 p.m. ET in Guadalajara, Mexico (FS1/Telemundo/Peacock) Mexico is a heavy favorite against South AfricaBoosted by a home crowd, Mexico hopes to play better in this World Cup than in 2022, when it failed to advance out of the group stage for the first time since 1978. El Tri will be led by veteran Raúl Jiménez and 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa will be competing in the World Cup for a record sixth time. South Africa is playing in its fourth World Cup and first since it hosted the tournament in 2010.The games in Mexico will be played at high elevation. The Azteca stadium in Mexico City is at roughly 7,300 feet while Guadalajara sits at 5,138 feet, meaning visiting teams will have to make a significant adjustment to the altitude. South Korea hopes to build on ’22 World Cup success vs. CzechiaSouth Korea is one of the best teams in Asia and has qualified for 11 tournaments in a row since 1986. The Koreans made it to the round of 16 in 2022 before losing to Brazil. Son Hueng-min, 33, is the captain and might be playing in his last World Cup. The Czech Republic is back in soccer’s biggest showcase for the first time in 20 years. Read More World Cup sticker shock with sky-high pricesFIFA has faced pressure for sky-high World Cup ticket prices and sales tactics that fans say left them with worse deals than they wanted.The attorneys general in New York and New Jersey, which is hosting eight World Cup matches including the final, announced last month that they are investigating whether FIFA’s ticketing practices violated consumer protection laws.Some seats for the July 19 final are going for nearly $33,000. In the U.S., bipartisan skepticism of Infantino, FIFAIn the deeply polarized U.S., few things unite elected leaders outside the White House quite like skepticism of Gianni Infantino and FIFA, the governing body for the world’s most popular sport. It’s a sentiment that cuts across the divide and spans from Washington to state capitals and city halls.There are mayors like Zohran Mamdani of New York and Karen Bass of Los Angeles, Democrats who’ve balked at ticket prices. Republican Sen. Todd Young of Indiana, who played Division 1 soccer at the U.S. Naval Academy, said FIFA has been “detached from regular people around the world.” More World Cup news3. World Cup by the numbers: 104 matches, 48 teams and 3 countries make this the largest ever4. Iran’s World Cup players wear pins for victims of deadly strike on school as they arrive in Mexico5. Somali soccer referee denied entry to US for World Cup is welcomed home as a hero6. Celebrations clash with social tensions in Mexico on the eve of the World Cup7. Bettors taking a chance on the longshot US in World Cup, though France and Spain remain favorites8. Pochettino says no Americans among top 100 players yet US can win World CupStats of the day9. Only eight countries have won the World Cup, with six of those teams winning multiple titles led by Brazil’s five. The only first-time winners in the last 11 Cups came in 1998 when France won the first of its two titles and in 2010 with Spain.10. There have been six defending champions who failed to make it out of the group stage, including in three of the last four editions. France made it back to the final in 2022 but Italy (2010), Spain (2014) and Germany (2018) all get eliminated before the knockout rounds.___AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup DAVID BRANDT Brandt is an Associated Press sports writer based in Phoenix. He covers a wide variety of sports including the NBA, NFL and MLB. twitter mailto

The state’s vast rural areas, which make up the swing Second Congressional District, will be important in November.

F1's new engines will be tweaked over the next two years to address criticism [Getty Images]Formula 1 has agreed a two-step plan to change engine design in response to criticism of this year's new rules.Drivers have complained that the near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power this year and need for energy management has diminished the challenge in qualifying.Four-time champion Max Verstappen was so upset by the new engines he said he would quit F1 if changes were not made, but all other drivers were in agreement the issue needed to be addressed.The engine suppliers have agreed to change the ratio to 60-40 in favour of the internal combustion engine by 2028 and will do so in two steps.The compromise agreement comes after a month of talks in which Ferrari and Audi were leading a push to prevent the move to 60-40 being made in one step for 2027.A statement from governing body the FIA said: "The proposed changes are intended to address issues related to energy management and fuel energy-flow characteristics and make qualifying more flat-out while not impacting the positive and exciting racing generated by the new regulations."The agreed plan will see the split changed to 58-42 in 2027 before moving to 60-40 in 2028.The changes will be made by increasing the fuel-flow to the internal combustion engine (ICE) by 5% in 2027 and 13% in 2028.This will increase the power from the ICE from about 400kW (536bhp) this year to 420kW (563bhp) in 2027 and 450kW (603bhp) in 2028.Power produced by the electrical part of the engine will be reduced from 350kW (470bhp) this year to 300kW (402bhp) from next year.The maximum power available in overtake mode, which gives a driver within one second of a car in front the ability to recover and use an extra 0.5MJ of energy per lap will remain at 350kW.But the maximum harvesting power of the electrical part of the engine will be increased from 350kW this year to 375kW in 2027 and 400kW in 2028.This last move will allow teams to recover energy more quickly, reducing the amount of time spent doing so.The biggest criticism of the new cars this year has been the engines were energy starved because it was too difficult to recover sufficient energy around a lap to meet the maximum allowance.In the early races, this led to unusual behaviour, such as drivers lifting off the throttle and coasting on qualifying laps, as well as recovering energy while on full throttle.This diminished the 'flat-out' nature of qualifying and led to bitter criticisms from some drivers.Two-time champion Fernando Alonso has said fast corners have become the "charging station for the car" as a result of the new rules.A first step to address the criticisms was made after the opening three races, when the maximum amount of energy that could be recovered on a lap was reduced, and the power of recovery when on full throttle was increased.All the drivers have agreed this was a welcome change but only a small step in the right direction.In addition to the rules agreement, the FIA has informed the power-unit manufacturers of the ranking of engine performance.This is important because it opens the door to manufactures deemed to be more than 2% behind the most powerful engine to upgrade their engines this year and next.The FIA has not published its verdict, but sources have said Red Bull have been found to have the most powerful engine.Only the power of the internal combustion engine is measured. The effectiveness of the recovery and deployment of the electrical system is not taken into account.Mercedes have been awarded one permissible upgrade this season and another next, while all other manufacturers - Ferrari, Audi and Honda - can make two in both this season and 2027.Those permitted extra upgrades are also allowed to spend extra money under the engine budget cap, on a sliding scale depending on the performance deficit.In addition, sources say Honda has been found to be more than 10% behind the best engine. This triggers an extra allowance in the engine cost-cap of as much as $19m (£14m).Listen to Back at Base on BBC Sounds

England kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas as Thomas Tuchel’s side target glory in North America this summer. The Three Lions enter the 48-team tournament as one of the favourites following an unbeaten qualifying campaign and after a prolific season from captain and top striker Harry Kane. England will face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in the group stages but will be plotting a much deeper run at the tournament as they seek to win a second men’s international tournament following runners-up finishes at Euro 2020 and Euro 2024. England notably faced Croatia in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and their opening opponents, who continue to be led by 40-year-old midfielder Luka Modric, have an excellent recent record at major tournaments. Tuchel’s team play their final warm-up fixture, against Costa Rica, the night before the World Cup begins and will be one of the last teams of this newly expanded tournament to get underway, almost a week after the opening match. When is England's first game at World Cup 2026? England play Croatia on Wednesday 17 June. It will be played at the Dallas Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys, which is in Arlington, Texas. Kick-off is 4pm local time, which is 9pm BST (UK time). It will be shown in the UK on ITV 1 and ITV X. Harry Kane scored in England's pre-World Cup friendly win against New Zealand in Tampa, Florida (Getty)England’s World Cup fixtures June 17: England v Croatia | AT&T Stadium, Arlington – 4pm ET / 9pm BSTJune 23: England v Ghana | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough – 4pm ET / 9pm BSTJune 27: England v Panama | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford – 5pm ET / 10pm BST

The 2021 NFL Draft produced one of the most impressive wide receiver classes in recent memory. Ja'Marr Chase became a superstar almost immediately. Amon-Ra St. Brown developed into one of the league's most reliable offensive weapons. Nico Collins emerged as a dominant force. Jaylen Waddle helped transform the Miami Dolphins' offense, but the truth is, whenever these guys are mentioned, we don't often mention Philadelphia Eagles star DeVonta Smith alongside them.Smith certainly belongs in that conversation as well, and he was recently. Pro Football Focus stacked the top wide receivers from the 2021 draft class based on career grading. Smith's 87.6 overall grade placed him behind St. Brown (93.4), Chase (92.1), Collins (91.8), and Waddle (90.4). On paper, that's an impressive company.Name the best WR from the 2021 draft class 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/l3dopoYc8e— PFF (@PFF) June 2, 2026Beyond PFF's complicated stat line, however, there lies another angle. Smith is actually better than his grade or what his numbers say. The 2021 NFL Draft class produced one of pro football's best collections of talentEach player above Smith has built a strong resume. St. Brown has hauled in 547 receptions for 6,252 yards and 44 touchdowns. Chase has amassed 520 catches, 6,837 yards, and 54 scores. Collins has been remarkably efficient despite fewer opportunities (289 receptions, 4,347 yards, and 24 scores), while Waddle has topped 5,000 career receiving yards and has notched 26 TDs on 373 career receptions.Smith's numbers compare favorably. The former Heisman Trophy winner has already recorded 385 receptions, 5,019 receiving yards, and 31 touchdowns during his first five NFL seasons. He continues to climb past Eagles legends as he makes his way up the ladder, but did you notice? Those aren't the statistics of a complementary player. They're the numbers of a star.DeVonta Smith's PFF grade deserves context. What makes his placement interesting is the environment in which he has played. Unlike some of his draft classmates, Smith spent much of his career sharing targets with an All-Pro receiver in A.J. Brown. That arrangement benefited the Eagles tremendously, but it may have impacted how Smith is perceived nationally. Opportunities matter. Targets matter. Awards voting often matters too. There have been seasons when Smith produced at a Pro Bowl level but watched others receive the recognition. Whether fair or unfair, it often felt as though voters were reluctant to send two Eagles receivers to the NFL's all-star team. The WR1 argument isn't going away, though. The fascinating thing about Smith is that we've already seen what happens when he's asked to carry more of the workload.Before Brown arrived, Smith was the clear primary receiver in Philadelphia's passing attack. He set the franchise's rookie receiving record with 916 yards. Since then, he has repeatedly shown the ability to dominate games whenever defenses devote too much attention elsewhere.That's why ranking him fifth among this group feels more like a reflection of circumstance than talent. The receivers ahead of him are outstanding players. There is no one disputing that. Still, if Smith had spent the past several seasons operating as the unquestioned No. 1 option in another offense, his resume might look very different today. Eagles fans have known for years what the rest of the league will soon be forced to realize. DeVonta Smith isn't simply one of the better receivers from the 2021 class. He's one of the NFL's most complete wideouts, regardless of draft year.Rankings make for great conversation. Smith may rank fifth on this list, but few defensive coordinators would feel comfortable betting against him if given the same opportunities as the players ahead of him. The Eagles have always known what they have, and now that A.J. Brown is gone, the rest of the NFL is about to get a much longer look.This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles WR DeVonta Smith earns top-five mark among 2021 WRs

WASHINGTON – Josh Hokit gave it a shot, but perhaps standup comedy is not for him.It's a good thing Hokit (9-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) gave his "Kill Tony" set a dry-run Wednesday ahead of UFC Freedom 250, because he would've been roasted into oblivion if that performance was on the actual YouTube show."This is why I don't do standup comedy, dude," Hokit said mid-set, which took place at a news conference in front of MMA Junkie and other reporters. "I'm bombing right now, dog."Bombing is actually Hokit's goal – but for Sunday, not Wednesday. He faces Derrick Lewis at the White House. The bout was a late addition and came at the specific request of President Trump.Perhaps his best joke landed when he turned into character mid-answer, describing what he plans to do to Lewis (29-13 MMA, 20-11 UFC) in the cage."This is the opportunity that presented itself," Hokit said. "Derrick Lewis, I'm going to have him kidnapped by a group of mimes. The things they will do to him will be unspeakable."But those jokes apparently weren't made by Josh Hokit. They were made by his altered egos. Thus far there are three: "Down Vato," "The Incredible Hok," and "Scared Josh." It's unclear if more are coming.More: The real Josh Hokit speaks before UFC Freedom 250Hokit hasn't really delved into the origins of the characters, even somewhat being in-character when he's out-of-character, alleging the characters are actually part of him. But on Wednesday, he explained "Down Vato," a character supposed to be a stereotyped cholo-esque figure."Believe it or not, it is me. I'm from an area where there is a lot of cholo-type of guys," Hokit said. "I used to mess around with that voice. When I played football, we used to have a little locker room gang, I guess you could say. Our running back room at Fresno State, we were the 'Vatos Locos.' We would run up on the tight ends or the linebackers or anybody that wanted it, fool. Anybody that wanted it, we ran up on them."Hokit has, however, turned down the characters ahead of the White House event, claiming his manager advised him to be more like himself. Whether, in actuality, the pivot is due to the event's association with the White House remains to be seen. But for now, it seems Hokit is going to keep the in-character and out-of-character answers in rotation.This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC White House: Josh Hokit bombs 'Kill Tony' standup routine

Some matches at the 2026 World Cup will be played under a hot afternoon sun. Others will take place in a climate-controlled indoor stadium. All will have hydration breaks.FIFA is implementing breaks for players to get water 22 minutes in to each 45-minute half of every World Cup match, with the referee stopping the game to allow for three-minute rehydration stoppages.The breaks aren't a new concept, but have previously only been used in games with excessive heat conditions.“For every game, no matter where the games are played, no matter if there’s a roof, (or) temperature-wise, there will be a three-minute hydration break. It will be three minutes from whistle to whistle in both halves,” Manolo Zubiria, Chief Tournament Officer, USA, for the 2026 World Cup said at the tournament's World Broadcaster Meeting.World Cup 2026 rosters: Complete squads for all 48 teamsWhy are World Cup water breaks happening inside domed stadiums?While everyone agrees player safety is important, and FIFA notes that the breaks are being done in a uniform manner, "to ensure equal conditions for all teams, in all matches," plenty of fans have wondered if there are other motives.With the decision being highlighted at the broadcaster meeting, many fans noted this may be a reason for broadcasters to insert more advertisements. Some managers are already planning to use the time their players have to grab a drink to give instruction — and perhaps even make substitutions."This is a tactical stop. Of course it is a hydration stop, but during three minutes ... the game can really change, the momentum can really change," Portugal manager Roberto Martinez said as the breaks were rolled out in March friendly matches in North America.The change has been polarizing. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said he liked the breaks, "because this is an opportunity for us coaches to speak with the team, to speak about strategy and plan."United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino took a dimmer view.“To be honest I don’t like (them),” Pochettino said. “I don’t like it because I think you cut the rhythm of the game."I understand when you play in open stadiums, maybe yes, we need to care about the health of the players. But in this type of stadium when it’s 21, 22, 23 degrees (Celsius), I think it’s the perfect time and weather to play."This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: World Cup water breaks: Why are they happening during every game?

Mayor Zohran Mamdani paid roughly $1,000 for a standing-room-only ticket to Game 3 of the N.B.A. finals, using access to house tickets not available to regular fans.

It’s cheaper than running the AC or getting expensive window treatments. READ MORE...

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Drew Rasmussen turned in a gem against the Boston Red Sox on June 10. (Photo by Parker S. Freedman/Getty Images)Parker S. Freedman via Getty ImagesTampa Bay Rays pitcher Drew Rasmussen mowed down the Boston Red Sox's Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela and Wilyer Abreu during a 7-5 win on Wednesday afternoon at Tropicana Field. And then the righty did it again, and again.Rasmussen struck out each of Boston's top-three batters three times. In the first and fourth innings, the 2025 All-Star got all three of them swinging.In a surgical performance that paralyzed an already stagnant Red Sox offense, Rasmussen piled up 13 Ks, shattering his previous career high of 10 that he set in a victory over the New York Yankees on Sept. 9, 2022.Rasmussen allowed only two hits in seven innings of work. He didn't give up a run. The bulk of the Red Sox's scoring came in the top of the eighth, the first frame Rasmussen wasn't on the bump.Caleb Durbin launched a solo shot to left off right-handed reliever Cole Sulser. Soon after, with Steven Matz on the hill, Rafaela suddenly found success, taking an 83-mph changeup to left for a three-run homer that made it a 5-4 game.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentTampa Bay needed one more bullpen arm to get out of the inning and another to secure a win and, by extension, a series sweep over an AL East rival.Fortunately for Rasmussen, his masterpiece wasn’t spoiled. Providing immediate relief in the bottom of the eighth, Cedric Mullins blasted a two-run dinger to right. That big fly gave Tampa Bay a three-run cushion heading into the ninth.Although Durbin went yard again amid the Red Sox’s final stand, their comeback bid proved insufficient.

The Iowa football program is close to landing a huge commitment for its 2027 class.The Hawkeyes currently have 12 commits in their 2027 recruiting class, which ranks 39th nationally according to 247Sports. They're still waiting for their first wide receiver commit for the class. That could be coming sooner than expected.On Monday, Iowa found out it made the final four schools for 2027 four-star wide receiver Lawrence Britt. The Hawkeyes join Texas Tech, Arkansas, and Missouri in Britt's final four. He'll announce his commitment live on CBS Sports' College Football YouTube channel on Thursday.NEWS: 4 ⭐️ Lawrence Britt will announce his college commitment LIVE on the CBS Sports College Football YouTube channel. 🔥The 6’1 WR out of Memphis, TN is down to 4 schools, Missouri, Arkansas, Florida and Iowa.Where will he end up? 👀 pic.twitter.com/tuRBpepTOz— 247Sports (@247Sports) June 8, 2026Britt is from Memphis, Tennessee, and Lausanne Collegiate School. He's the 233rd-best prospect in the 2027 class, according to 247Sports. The 6-foot-1, 178-pound receiver visited Iowa City last week. That visit was sandwiched between visits to Arkansas and Missouri. He's not set to visit Texas Tech until after his commitment date.As a junior in 2025, Britt caught 44 passes for 696 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also rushed for 299 yards and five scores on 5.8 yards per carry. Britt is a highly sought-after prospect, garnering offers from blue-blood programs like Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, and Miami, among others. Iowa making the top four schools for him is a big indictment of where the program is at with Tim Lester running the offense.Kirk Ferentz and the coaching staff will wait with bated breath on Thursday as they look to add an elite prospect to an already strong 2027 class.Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Zach on X: @zach_hineyThis article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: 4-star Iowa football recruit sets Thursday commitment date

Hornets linked to 3-time All-Star who can help LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel reach next level originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Charlotte Hornets might improve a lot this offseason after a trade rumor reported their involvement with the three-time All-Star from the Sacramento Kings.According to the latest intel from HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, the Kings and the Hornets are exploring trade talks involving Domantas Sabonis and Miles Bridges. While the talks are still in preliminary stages, it was reported that Charlotte might send Bridges, Josh Green, and a potential first-round draft pick to Sacramento in exchange for Sabonis. However, it's worth noting that the Hornets are not ready to part ways with either of their 14th or 18th picks in the 2026 NBA draft.The timing for this potential trade rumor is perfect. Sabonis' potential addition could unlock the Hornets' ability to reach another level, while keeping in focus the skill set of LaMelo Ball and rising rookie Kon Knueppel. The franchise won 44 games last season and is rising in the Eastern Conference.MORE: How LaMelo Ball escapes suspension but pays $60K after Bam Adebayo tripHow Domantas Sabonis' potential addition helps Hornets' LaMelo Ball and Kon KnueppelThe Hornets need an upgrade at the center position and Domantas Sabonis, a three-time rebounding champion and a premier passing big man, could fit well.In the injury-shortened 2025-26 season, the Kings center averaged 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists before his knee surgery requirement limited him to just 19 games.Ball, known for his creative passing in transition, could enjoy playing alongside Sabonis. The combination could very well give way to dynamic pick-and-roll plays. This will reduce the burden on Ball to carry the Hornets' offense on every possession, as he could maximize on Sabonis' dribble handoffs.Meanwhile, Kneuppel, who earned All-Rookie First-Team Honors last season, has already enjoyed playing with Ball. An All-Star addition in Sabonis could elevate his game to another dimension. Kneuppel could use all the defensive attention that Sabonis would attract because of his presence for catch-and-shoot opportunities from beyond the arc.The 30-year-old star from Kings would bring experience with him that the young Hornets core could utilize. If the Hornets are in favor of trading for Sabonis, they must keep in mind that the Kings' star is owed $94.08 million over the next two seasons. So, any trade package they sent must consider the financial flexibility for them to make other moves in the offseason.More NBA news:Chicago Bulls may need a new coach soon and two candidates already stand outCooper Flagg's brilliant rookie season gets an ugly ending in DallasVictor Wembanyama-Jalen Brunson controversy grows as Draymond Green brings Steph Curry into debate

Ronald Acuna Jr. is back on the injured list.The Braves placed their franchise outfielder on the 10-day IL Wednesday, June 10 with a strained left hamstring. It is the second time this season that same injury has put him on the IL. He left Tuesday night’s game against the White Sox after trying to beat out a ground ball to third base, the kind of play he used to make look effortless.The Braves had been hopeful he would not need a trip to the injured list this time, and Acuna told reporters he didn’t think it was as bad and he had no pain.Still, before Wednesday night’s series finale in Chicago, Acuna was back on the shelf.His history of injuries is getting long.He had a torn right ACL that ended his 2021 season. A torn left ACL ended his 2024 season after just 49 games. He opened 2025 still finishing that rehab, added a calf strain in July and played just 95 total games. Now in 2026, he has hit the IL twice with the same left hamstring issue. That is five lower-body IL stints across five seasons.The Braves can absorb this, for now.Michael Harris II is having the best season of his career, hitting .308 with 13 home runs. He is the reason Atlanta’s outfield does not feel depleted right now. Beyond Harris, the depth runs thin. We'll see Mike Ystremzeski in a platoon role and more Eli White, who replaced Acuna the moment he limped off Tuesday night.Rowdy Tellez was added to the roster with Jhancarlos Lara designated for assignment to open the spot on the 40-man roster.In between his injuries, Acuna has shown flashes of stardom. In 2023, his last full season, he hit 41 homers, scored 149 runs and stole 73 bases, becoming the first 40/70 player in MLB history.This year, he's hitting .253 with a .380 on-base percentage and a .441 slugging percentage. He has seven home runs and 12 stolen bases in 53 games played. The Braves own the best record in baseball going into Wednesday’s games at 45-22.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What we know about Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr.'s injury

Jun 7, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Baltimore Orioles left fielder Taylor Ward (3) celebrates in the dugout with teammates after hitting a two run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesAt some point in time, the Baltimore Orioles will have to recognize reality. That is that the team is a handful of games under .500 and double-digit games out of the AL East pennant race. The season is not over until it is truly over, but vibes are falling off in Baltimore. As failures grow, a focus on the future becomes increasingly important.The Orioles traded with the Angels for Taylor Ward this past offseason. He is batting over .260 with an OBP over .750, and the returns have been as hoped. Nonetheless, he is not a groundbreaker nor a vital asset to the Orioles' future. On a contract that expires after this season, Ward can be dealt off for future assets while the receiving team chases a World Series.In this mock trade scenario, Ward heads to the Philadelphia Phillies as the rumors continue to grow in that direction. Fantasy Baseball ImpactIf Ward became a Phillie, he would logically be batting leadoff. That role is served by Kyle Schwarber and his .354 on-base percentage. However, Ward will trump him with his elite .403 on-base percentage. Schwarber will move back in the lineup and actually see more home runs and RBI opportunities in higher leverage situations. He benefits uniquely. As for Ward specifically, he would take a hit in fantasy baseball value. What matters for him is his supporting cast of bats. The Phillies are lacking at that, rating 26th in offensive rating, per Fangraphs. The Orioles rank in the top-10. He will see reduced chances to be driven in by the bats behind him in the lineup. Nonetheless, his bat-on-ball ability will remain as good as he wills it. Mock Trade DetailsPhillies Get:OF, Taylor WardOrioles Get:INF, Aroon EscobarP, Seth JohnsonWhy the Phillies Say YesDespite batting struggles, the Phillies are very much in the playoff race. Despite being 9 games outside of the NL East lead, they are in the NL Wild Card picture at the moment. Any improvement to the Phillies lineup will help them reach heights come October. Ward bolsters the front-end of their lineup with elite on-base ability. It is also done at a low cost for a rental via Ward.Why the Orioles Say YesIf the Orioles decide to quit the season early, Ward is their prime trade candidate to get future assets. In this deal, they do just that as the rumors become reality. Ward's deal is a 1-year, $12.75 million deal.In doing this deal, the Orioles will get a young, up-and-coming infield star, Escobar. The 21-year-old is 4th in the Phillies farm system, playing in Double-A. Johnson will then add a quality depth piece of an arm to the Orioles' injured pitching depth chart- nothing more, but good enough to fill a need. More Fantasy Sports On SI News:The Mariners Swap Luis Castillo For Sean Murphy In This MLB Mock Trade That Could Revive Their Fantasy ValueExtensive Fantasy Basketball Implications of a Derrick White Trade Scenario to MagicBounce-Back Players For The 2026 Fantasy Football Season: David Montgomery Gets Another Shot To Be An RB1Raul Jimenez Tops the Best Fantasy Soccer Lineup for World Cup Opening Match DayThis article was originally published on www.si.com/onsi/fantasy as How a Taylor Ward Trade to Phillies Can Boost Kyle Schwarber's Fantasy Baseball Value.

Earlier this year, criminal charges were filed against Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony for defying Hungary’s ban on Pride celebrations and for helping to organize a Pride march in the capital. The charges against him, though, were just dropped, weeks after Hungarian dictator Viktor Orbán was removed from office. An estimated 100,000 to 200,000 people attended Budapest Pride in 2025, an event held in defiance of a national ban on Pride events that had been passed earlier that year. The law allowed the government to use facial recognition technology to identify people who attended banned events for criminal prosecution. Related People who voted for Hungary’s new government broadly support LGBTQ+ rights Such tech wasn’t needed to spot Karácsony, who approved the Pride march. “Neither freedom nor love can be banned in Budapest,” he said, speaking at the march. The march was the largest in the city’s history, with leaders from across Europe attending, which Pride-goers attributed to Orbán’s attempts to shut it down. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today “Yesterday, Viktor Orbán became the king of European Pride, because no one else has ever managed to mobilize such a large crowd for a demonstration against himself by inciting hatred and incitement,” Péter Magyar, who would go on to become prime minister, said at the time. In December, Karácsony posted a video to Facebook discussing the charges against him. “I became a suspect, and if that is the price we have to pay in this country for standing up for our own freedom and that of others, then I am proud of it,” he said at the time. “In a system where the law protects power rather than people, in this system that stifles free communities, it was inevitable that sooner or later, as the mayor of a free city, they would take criminal action against me.” This April, Orbán’s proto-fascist Fidesz party lost the election to the center-right Tisza Party, led by Magyar. Later that month, a European Union (EU) court ruled against Hungary’s ban on LGBTQ+ “propaganda,” saying that it violated Article 2 of the EU Treaty. Article 2 says that the EU is founded on “values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities.” Hungarian prosecutors last Thursday announced that they were dropping the charges against Mayor Karácsony, citing the EU court ruling. “Considering the ruling by the European Court… the prosecutors dropped charges against the Budapest mayor for violating the law on freedom of assembly,” prosecutors said in a statement. Karácsony has not commented on the matter. Human Rights Watch also reports that similar charges against teacher and activist Géza Buzás-Hábel were dropped in the same announcement. Buzás-Hábel faced criminal charges for his role in organizing an October 2025 Pride march in the city of Pécs. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks during a news conference at the stadium in Mexico City, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, a day before the opening FIFA World Cup match between Mexico and South Africa. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)2026-06-10T19:19:34Z MEXICO CITY (AP) — FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended World Cup ticket prices, saying Wednesday “if we are doing something wrong, everyone in North America is doing something wrong.”FIFA priced tickets starting at $140 for the 48-nation, 104-game tournament that starts Thursday and priced regular seats up to $8,680 for the July 19 final in New Jersey. It raised prices for the final to $10,990 and then $32,970. After criticism, FIFA offered a small amount of $60 tickets to national federations for their regular supporters. He said Wednesday 130,000 tickets were offered at that price, out of 6 to 7 million total.Infantino said the average ticket price was under $500 for the tournament and was comparable to other U.S. sports during their playoffs, a claim that while true for resale prices does not appear to be accurate for list prices. He said he was unconcerned about investigations by attorneys general in California, New Jersey, New York and Texas. “We are very relaxed about it because before starting to sell 6.5 million or 7 million tickets we check what we do with the best lawyers,” he said. “We welcome every investigation.” The NBA Finals have had wildly varied get-in prices, ranging from a minimum of about $500 for the first two games in San Antonio to about $10,000 for Game 3 in New York. Game 4 in New York was much less, dropping to about $4,000 on WednesdayThe Stanley Cup Final this year between teams in Las Vegas and Raleigh, North Carolina, has included a get-in price of at least $600 for each of the first four games of the best-of-seven series. Read More Infantino says FIFA is powerless to get US entry for denied Somali refereeInfantino said it was “unfortunate” that Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the U.S. and said people “should chill.”He said FIFA cannot dictate to governments who to let into their countries, though it is working “behind the scenes.”“We always try to make the situation as positive as possible and to find solutions,” he said. “Sometimes we manage, other times not.”“We don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” he said. He thinks FIFA deserves credit for ensuring Iran’s participationInfantino praised FIFA for working through details that allow Iran to play in the tournament at a time the U.S. is at war with Iran. The Iranian team moved its training camp from the U.S. to Mexico and will fly to the U.S. before matches.“I don’t know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances ... Iran could come and play,” Infantino said.Infantino claimed the tournament will be “the biggest event probably in the history of mankind.”This press conference went smoother than Infantino’s opening comments in QatarFour years ago, Infantino scolded critics during a news conference ahead of the opener in Qatar. He lectured Europeans for criticizing Qatar’s human rights record during a bizarre availability in which he claimed to feel gay, like a woman and a migrant worker, among other bizarre claims.Now 50, Infantino has been FIFA’s president since 2010 and intends to seek another term next year that runs through 2031.Infantino kept an empty seat at the news conference for Christophe Gleizes, a French freelance reporter given a seven-year prison sentence in Algeria last year over an interview with a soccer official accused of ties to a banned separatist movement. ___AP Sports Writer Ronald Blum contributed.__AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup 获取更多RSS：https://feedx.net https://feedx.site

TimesofIndia.com in Mohali: Day after getting a green signal from the Centre of Excellence (CoE), Rohit Sharma looked in fine touch during India’s optional training session at the IS Bindra PCA Stadium in Mohali on Wednesday.Rohit Sharma was the first to step out of the team bus, and security officials and Punjab Police personnel took out their phones as the former India captain was flooded with selfie requests. He obliged a few before heading straight into the pavilion.The 39-year-old started with a light jog alongside his former Mumbai Indians opening partner Ishan Kishan before walking out to bat at the open nets.— pratyush93_raj (@pratyush93_raj) Rohit looked a bit rusty initially when Nitish Kumar Reddy struck him on the pads. But as the sun started to set, the right-handed batter looked in great touch. The flicks, pulls, cuts and drives were all on display. None of the pacers, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar or Prince Sharma, were able to trouble him.Rohit shared the fast-bowling nets with Shreyas Iyer, with both batters switching ends after every over. In the side nets, Ishan Kishan and Yashasvi Jaiswal went berserk against the spinners.— pratyush93_raj (@pratyush93_raj) After a good 45 minutes against the quicks, Rohit Sharma was involved in a chat with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. Thereafter, he moved to the spinner nets, where he faced left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey and Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) net bowlers. One thing missing from Rohit's batting was that he never charged down the track against either the spinners or the fast bowlers. He completed the session by taking a few high catches with fielding coach T Dilip.India’s new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer also looked in fine touch. The swashbuckling batter, fresh from playing for SoBo Mumbai Falcons in the Mumbai T20 League, hardly looked troubled. He was tested with short-pitched deliveries by Gurnoor Brar.Barring Yashasvi Jaiswal, those who played in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Mullanpur opted out of the training session. The notable absentees were captain Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar.India won the Test match by an innings and 300 runs. The first ODI of the three-match series will be played in Dharamshala on Saturday (June 13), followed by matches in Lucknow on June 17 and Chennai on June 20.

Latest draft predictions should have Twins fans jumping for joy originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Minnesota Twins are struggling to be consistent this season. Heading into Wednesday's games, they hold a 30-38 record, which puts them third in the American League Central. They are 6.5 games behind the Cleveland Guardians, and if something doesn't change soon, they are destined to be sellers at the trade deadline. However, if fans want something to look forward to, they don't have to wait too long. The Twins were awarded the No. 3 pick in this summer's draft, and there are some intriguing names to be had here. MORE: Why Twins have 'no reasons' not to entertain Joe Ryan trade offersLatest draft predictions should have Twins fans jumping for joyFor many of the mock drafts over the last few months, analysts had the Chicago White Sox taking UCLA's Roch Colowsky with the first overall pick. But, that's not a for sure thing. According to The Athletic's Keith Law, there is a world where he sees the White Sox passing on Cholowsky, with the UCLA shortstop falling to pick No. 3. "I'm assuming the Twins take the obvious pick, but I have heard that their internal model has Drew Burress at or near the top, and if 1-2 were Cholowsky and Vahn Lackey, then Burress might be the pick."Law also paints the picture where Cholowsky does get picked before the Twins make their selection. And if that were the case, internal rumblings point to Georgia Tech slugger Drew Burress. Burress has been a monster with the bat in his hands over the last few years. He has immense power, even for his shorter stature, and he plays a solid center field that most scouts believe he can stick with at the next level.Fans would obviously love it if Cholowsky fell to them, but the club needs to have other options because you never know what the team in front of you is going to do. More MLB news:Rays could use their draft pick on a player they've coveted for yearsWhite Sox could pivot to a surprising name with the No. 1 pickConsecutive series losses cost the Rays their spot in the top fivePirates fall in the rankings after a disappointing weekend series

The U.S. men's national team has never won the World Cup. Forward Christian Pulisic hopes to change that.For the first time since 1994, the tournament is back on American soil, and the USMNT is ready to roll on one of the world's largest stages after a 3-2 friendly win over Senegal on May 31. The American men's team won behind goals from Pulisic, Sergino Dest and Folarin Balogun.Pulisic's goal, which came in the 20th minute, helped give the U.S. a 2-1 lead going into halftime, and it ended a six-month drought for the star. It was his first goal for club or country this year.Pulisic recently joined USA TODAY Sports' "Sports Seriously Soccer Show" and was asked: how ready are you for the ball to be rolling and for the whistle to blow on the World Cup stage?"Yeah, I couldn't be more ready. I'm so excited," Pulisic said. "To get this tournament started, to get playing ― yeah, I feel like I've been waiting my whole life. So, I'm excited. It's gonna be a great summer, and just to have this opportunity, I feel grateful, so looking forward to it."As a kid, I dreamed of playing in a World Cup for the USA and pretending to score the goal to win the World Cup. That's what we do as kids. We dream big, and yeah, that's how we feel going into it. We have such an incredible opportunity in front of us."You can watch the full episode of "Sports Seriously Soccer Show" below or on USA TODAY Sports' YouTube page and wherever you listen to podcasts (search: Sports Seriously).This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Christian Pulisic talks dream of USMNT finally winning World Cup

Knicks watch parties are planned for the area outside Madison Square Garden, Wollman Rink, and Brooklyn Bowl. Registration is required to attend.The New York Knicks take on the San Antonio Spurs for Game 4 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.While ticket prices at MSG soared into the thousands, all of the watch parties are free for those who are able to register.In a tweet, Mamdani urged New Yorkers to celebrate responsibly."As we prepare to watch together, let me be clear: this is a historic, joyful moment for our city. We will not allow it to be disrupted by violence," he wrote, and added, "Knicks in 5."NEW YORK: We’re back outside the Garden. We have approved a ticketed MSG watch party for Game 4. More details soon.As we prepare to watch together, let me be clear: this is a historic, joyful moment for our city. We will not allow it to be disrupted by violence.Be safe,…— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) June 9, 2026After the team's loss on Monday night, Knicks fans spilled out of Bryant Park onto neighboring streets, sparking fights resulting in 21 arrests.The area outside MSG will see similar security measures to those in place for Game 3, with the NYPD saying 1,000 ticketed attendees will be allowed at the watch party, and everyone will be screened.Screening is mandatory with no bags, alcohol, or umbrellas permittedBut MSG and its owner accused the mayor and the NYPD of turning the neighborhood into a "police state," insisting that fans should be allowed to gather outside the arena, unrestricted."These fans want to celebrate together. They want to celebrate at the Mecca of basketball... there is no reason to create a police state around The Garden," MSG said in a statement.During the conference finals last month, the NYPD announced it would not support watch parties outside the arena, citing "very rough" crowds as a public safety threat.But that decision, which ultimately rests with the mayor's office, was later reversed after the Knicks reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.Registration for the watch parties is available on the Knicks website.The NYPD security plan for Game 4 outside Madison Square Garden is listed below:Watch Party:New York City approved a permit for a ticketed watch party outside of Madison Square Garden at Plaza33.This will be a ticketed watch party and Madison Square Garden will provide more information on registering for that event.You must have a ticket to attend the watch party and everyone attending will be screened.Watch party attendees may only enter through the access point on the west side of Sixth Avenue at West 33rd Street.If you attempt to go to one of the other screening locations, you will be turned away and directed to the screening location on the west side of Sixth Avenue at West 33rd Street.If you leave the designated area of the watch party, there will be no reentry.There will also be watch parties at Wollman Rink in Central Park and Brooklyn Bowl.Security Perimeter and Access Points:There will be a security perimeter established around Madison Square Garden as there was on Monday night (as the Police Commissioner said there would be for Game 4 at the press conference on Monday).That perimeter will run from West 29th Street to West 35th Street, between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue.Within that perimeter, beginning at 4pm, Seventh Avenue between West 29th Street and West 35th Street will be closed to vehicular and general pedestrian traffic.Eighth Avenue will be open to vehicular traffic, but is subject to traffic closure if conditions necessitate a closure.Unless you are going to the game or have business specific to that area, pedestrians should avoid this area.Starting at 4pm, no one will be allowed inside the secure area unless they have a ticket to the game, a train ticket, are going to a business (restaurant or bar) inside the area, live in the area, have credentials, or have some other authorized reason to be there.Everyone entering the secure area will be screened.Screening locations will be open starting at 4:30pm. Please make sure you arrive early to allow enough time to get through the security points.If you have reason to be in the secure area (as listed above), you can enter at one of four designated entry points where screening will occur.Those entry points will be located on:West side of Sixth Avenue at West 33rd StreetWest side of Sixth Avenue at West 32nd StreetWest side of Eighth Avenue at West 33rd StreetNortheast corner of Eighth Avenue and West 30th StreetBusinesses inside the perimeter, including bars and restaurants between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, and those between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, will be allowed to operate with strict capacity limits.If you plan to frequent one of those locations, you will need to be screened at a security checkpoint. The NYPD will help facilitate access to those businesses.Please remember that certain items will not be permitted inside the secure area, including backpacks, bags, alcohol, or umbrellas.The only exception is for travelers entering Penn Station, who will be allowed to carry bags needed for travel, but are subject to security screening.Exiting Madison Square Garden:Fans leaving Madison Square Garden after the game will be able to access public transit at Penn Station.If you are leaving the area by foot or car, you will exit the arena onto Seventh Avenue or Eighth Avenue.If you exit onto Eighth Avenue, you will only be able to walk southbound on the east side of Eighth Avenue until you reach 28th Street. East and west egress from Eighth Avenue will only be possible starting at 28th Street.If you exit onto Seventh Avenue, you can either walk southbound on the west side of Seventh Avenue until you reach 28th Street or you can walk eastbound on 32nd Street until you reach Sixth Avenue.If you are planning to take a taxi or another ride after the game, you will only be able to access vehicles starting at West 28th Street and Eighth Avenue, West 28th Street and Seventh Avenue, or West 32nd Street and Sixth Avenue.Moynihan Train Hall/Penn Station:For access to transportation at Moynihan Train Hall and Penn Station, including Amtrak, LIRR, and the subway, please use the entrances to Moynihan Station on the west side of Eighth Avenue at 31st and 33rd Streets, which will be outside of the secure area.We do not anticipate any service changes or disruptions as a result of the security plan.Game 4 between the Knicks and Spurs tips off at 8:30 p.m. You can watch the game on ABC 7. Pre-game coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. The Knicks lead the series 2-1.----------* Get Eyewitness News Delivered* Download our connected TV app* More local news* Send us a news tip* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts on the go

There's been a lot of talk in recent days about Victor Wembanyama being a little too "comfortable" in the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. The conversation has started to really gain some steam in the aftermath of an impossible, flagrant-foul decision on the San Antonio Spurs' star center, all as antsy Knicks fans at Madison Square Garden and elsewhere try not to dwell too much on a crushing Game 3 loss. After all, at the time of this writing, the Knicks still hold a 2-1 series lead! They still won both of the first two games in San Antonio! They STILL have an opportunity to take a commanding 3-1 lead in this series and put themselves on the brink of ending one of the longest championship droughts in American sports. What's there to be so nervous about? (Well, if they don't do that, then Giannis Antetokounmpo could be waiting.)In light of all the physicality with Wembanyama discussion, Charles Barkley has a suggestion for Knicks players. They need to treat the Spurs' big man like it's 1992. Which is to say, per Barkley, they need to do "knock the [expletive]" out of him. The NBA legend and ESPN analyst expanded on this thought process with Wembanyama and the Knicks in an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show on Wednesday: "If I'm the Knicks, early in the game, I knock the hell out of Victor."– Charles Barkley on Victor Wembanyama and the #Knickspic.twitter.com/aSI2dMMYn4— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) June 10, 2026To be sure, Barkley isn't suggesting the Knicks do something he wouldn't do. He actually wants them to follow his lead when he was a player. Barkley once explained that he would punch someone like notorious agitator Dennis Rodman as hard as he could to let him know he wasn't going to put up with his antics. Honestly, within reason, it's probably a pretty evergreen strategy for all NBA players. That is, as long as the referees aren't punishing you in return:We'll see how the Knicks approach Wembanyama in Game 4. Something tells me their team strategy on the young superstar will ultimately be the deciding factor in whether New York puts itself one win away from the NBA title or this finals series heads back to San Antonio all knotted up at two games apiece. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Charles Barkley urges Knicks to "knock the [expletive]" out of Wembanyama