Ella Brockway

The NWSL will begin its 2027 season on 11 February in Los Angeles, pause for seven weeks during the Women's World Cup in Brazil, and conclude with its championship on 20 November. The 16-team league will retain its spring-to-fall calendar through 2030 despite considering alignment with MLS, whose 2027 schedule shift will create shared-venue conflicts but potentially clearer postseason windows. The league is also seeking greater visibility through Super Bowl-week programming with ESPN and broader integration into US sports. After terminating its Victory+ partnership over reportedly missed payments, the NWSL will move those matches to NWSL+ and begin negotiating a new media-rights deal after the 2027 World Cup.

The Guardian’s live coverage follows Donald Trump’s defense of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his claim that US military pressure forced Iran to seek talks, amid concerns about ammunition supplies and the classification of Iran-war casualties. Trump also addressed voting restrictions, repeated false claims about mail ballots and his supposed Michigan “Man of the Year” award, and faced protests over data centers and the Jeffrey Epstein files. The US Senate advanced Walter “Jay” Clayton’s nomination for intelligence director, while the administration asked the Supreme Court to permit nationwide enforcement of new mail-voting rules. In Michigan, Democrats Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens debated their primary contest, clashing over corporate funding, Israel, health care, ICE, electability and progressive policy; the winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in a race viewed as important to Senate control. Jamie Raskin separately sought congressional records from FIFA over Gianni Infantino’s ties to Trump and the administration.

Democratic representative Jamie Raskin has asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to provide records of the organization’s dealings with Donald Trump, his administration, and Trump-linked businesses, and to appear for a transcribed congressional interview. The request follows scrutiny of FIFA’s office in Trump Tower, Trump’s receipt of a FIFA peace prize, his involvement in reversing Folarin Balogun’s suspension, and their joint appearance at the World Cup final. Raskin also criticized FIFA’s ethics oversight and dynamic World Cup ticket pricing, while citing past US corruption investigations into global soccer. He cannot compel Infantino to testify without Republican support. FIFA has been asked to comment, and the Norwegian football federation plans to pursue an ethics complaint over the suspension reversal.

A Guardian video discussion examines the 2026 World Cup’s biggest winners and losers beyond the football itself. Carter Sherman speaks with Max Rushden about Argentina’s semifinal victory over England, Lionel Messi’s legacy and the upcoming Argentina–Spain final, while Alexander Abnos and Ella Brockway assess memorable tournament moments and determine who won the World Cup’s cultural “vibes contest.” A correction notes that Vozinha was recruited via LinkedIn by his teammate Roberto “Pico” Lopes, rather than by Vozinha himself.

Donald Trump will attend the World Cup final in New Jersey, with Fifa president Gianni Infantino confirming plans for the US president to present the trophy alongside him. Trump, who has maintained a close relationship with Infantino, previously intervened in Fifa disciplinary matters during the tournament. His attendance follows a series of appearances at major sporting events since his reelection. The White House says he will also attend a Fifa reception at Trump Tower ahead of the match between Spain and Argentina.

A record-setting crowd of 42,175 watched Gotham FC defeat the Washington Spirit at Citi Field, highlighting both the rapid growth and ongoing challenges of the NWSL. Rose Lavelle’s strike secured the win, while Sam Kerr’s return drew major fan excitement. The event showcased increased investment, rising attendance, and expanding ambition across the league, but also underscored persistent issues such as suboptimal playing surfaces, broadcast missteps, and concerns over heat and air quality. Despite adverse conditions, the match was seen as a milestone for women’s sports and a reflection of how far the league has progressed while still facing areas for improvement.

Argentina advanced to the World Cup semi‑finals with a 3‑1 extra‑time win over 10‑man Switzerland, powered by a late Julián Álvarez strike and a stoppage‑time goal from Lautaro Martínez. Switzerland were reduced to ten players after a controversial ‘mistaken identity’ red card issued to Breel Embolo, prompting criticism from coach Murat Yakin and renewed debate over VAR. Despite Switzerland’s strong defensive effort, Argentina controlled extra time and secured a semifinal meeting with England. The match continued broader tournament concerns over inconsistent officiating and VAR decisions.

International visitors attending the 2026 World Cup have infused Major League Baseball games with soccer-style energy, boosting attendance and creating lively cultural crossovers across US ballparks. Fans from England, Scotland, Norway and Australia brought chanting, flags and celebrations that delighted players, teams and front offices, with the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox and Miami Marlins among the biggest beneficiaries. Michael Harris II became an unexpected favorite of England supporters, while MLB teams organized themed events, special promotions and ceremonial first pitches featuring World Cup coaches and players. Teams hope to sustain the spontaneous enthusiasm beyond the tournament as baseball and global soccer cultures continue to intersect.

Writers evaluate the final eight teams in the 2026 World Cup, debating which players they would trust in decisive moments, which eliminated teams are most missed, and which sides could be considered dark horses. Messi, Mbappé and Haaland emerge as the most influential figures, while France and Spain are widely viewed as the strongest teams left. Coaching advantages, predicted semi-final matchups and final outcomes vary, with most projections favouring France or Spain to win the tournament, though Argentina’s reliance on Messi remains a persistent theme.

Belgium eliminated the USA from the 2026 World Cup with a decisive 4-1 win, capitalizing on defensive errors and controlling key moments. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, Hans Vanaken added another, and Romelu Lukaku finished late as the USA struggled with injuries, tactical issues, and a critical mistake by goalkeeper Matt Freese. Reader reactions highlighted concerns over team depth, coaching decisions, and external controversies, while Belgium advanced to face Spain with momentum.

A record 33.5 million viewers in the US watched the USMNT’s World Cup win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Fox drawing 24.4 million and Telemundo 9.1 million. The broadcast surpassed major US sports telecasts including the NBA Finals and Sunday Night Football. Viewership builds on historically strong ratings for this World Cup, boosted by the tournament’s North American location and favorable schedules. Another potential record is anticipated for the upcoming US match against Belgium.

Folarin Balogun must serve a one‑match suspension for his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with US Soccer confirming the ban cannot be appealed. The only scenario allowing an appeal would be if FIFA increased the suspension, in which case the US could contest only the additional games. Examples of previous FIFA disciplinary decisions illustrate how suspensions can be extended, including a five‑game ban issued to Qatar’s Assim Madibo, while Miguel Almirón’s punishment remained unchanged.

Morocco advanced to the World Cup last 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Monterrey. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring before Diop equalised in stoppage time, sending the match to extra time and eventually a chaotic shootout marked by multiple misses. Ismael Saibari converted the winning penalty, while Yassine Bounou delivered key saves. The result prompted criticism of Ronald Koeman’s tactics and celebration among Moroccan supporters, setting up Morocco’s next match against Canada.

Morocco secured second place in Group C with a 4-2 win over Haiti in an energetic World Cup match in Atlanta. Haiti scored their first-ever World Cup goals, including a standout long-range strike by Wilson Isidor, but Morocco rallied through goals from Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine. Morocco’s attacking pressure proved decisive, while Haiti showed resilience but were undermined by defensive lapses. The result sends Morocco to the knockout stage, while Haiti are eliminated.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha’s mother, Ana Candida Evora, will be able to attend the team’s next World Cup match in Miami after US visa fees were waived. High costs and documentation issues had previously prevented her from traveling to the United States. US House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and Secretary of State Marco Rubio intervened to resolve the matter, coordinating with the US State Department, the government of Cape Verde and Fifa. Vozinha has become a breakout star of the tournament, helping his country earn its first World Cup point and gaining widespread support.

Mike Brown criticized the officiating after the Knicks’ Game 3 NBA finals loss, citing a stark free‑throw disparity that he said was difficult to overcome. Despite his objections, he acknowledged San Antonio’s strong play but argued the foul distribution felt uneven. Players attributed the loss instead to turnovers, defensive lapses and allowing the Spurs to capitalize in transition. Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 32 points as officiating remained a major storyline through the series.

San Antonio stayed alive in the NBA finals with a 115-111 win over New York at Madison Square Garden, led by Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance and Stephon Castle’s key support. New York’s offense faltered in the second half, ending a 13-game winning streak. The game unfolded amid heightened security surrounding President Donald Trump’s attendance, drawing boos and altering the fan experience. Despite the political backdrop and tense atmosphere, the Spurs’ strong plays in the closing minutes secured the victory and shifted the momentum of the series.

San Antonio ended New York’s 13-game postseason winning streak with a 115-111 victory in Game 3 of the NBA finals, led by Victor Wembanyama’s 32-point performance and key contributions from Stephon Castle. Despite strong scoring from Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, the Knicks struggled in the fourth quarter and expressed frustration over foul calls. A high-profile crowd, including President Donald Trump and several celebrities, added intensity to the atmosphere as the Spurs cut the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1.

Crowds at Madison Square Garden booed President Donald Trump when he appeared on screen before Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. His attendance triggered heightened security measures that altered the atmosphere around the arena, including perimeter fencing, restricted access, and the cancellation of the outdoor watch party. Many fans expressed frustration over the disruptions, while some noted that his presence changed the tone of a major night for the Knicks. Despite concerns, large crowds gathered as New York aimed for its first championship since 1973, with numerous public figures also attending the game.

The NWSL championship match will return to Washington’s Audi Field on 21 November, marking the venue’s first final since 2022. Strong attendance figures and multiple sellouts have established the stadium as a premier league venue, with Washington Spirit home playoff games frequently used for national broadcasts. The final will air in prime time on CBS, and the Spirit are again considered likely contenders after reaching the past two championship games. Recent finals have been held in San Jose, Kansas City and San Diego, with last year’s match setting a record attendance of 25,011.

Sixteen stadiums across the US, Mexico and Canada are profiled with details on architecture, capacities, tournament fixtures and notable past events. Each venue’s unique structural features, memorable sports moments and logistical considerations are highlighted, from retractable roofs and seismic crowd reactions to historical World Cup finals and significant renovations. The guide outlines the role each stadium will play in hosting matches during the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing their varied designs, settings and sporting legacies.

Mallory Swanson, Sophia Wilson and Trinity Rodman will reunite for the first time since the 2024 Olympics as coach Emma Hayes names a 26‑player USWNT roster for June friendlies in Brazil. The trio, responsible for most of the team’s Olympic scoring, return after injuries and pregnancy absences, while emerging forwards such as Ally Sentnor and Emma Sears continue to strengthen squad depth. The roster includes several returning midfielders and defenders, while notable absences stem from injuries. The Brazil matches serve as preparation for World Cup qualifying and an opportunity to reintegrate key players ahead of the November roster decisions.

Tributes poured in across the motorsports community following the sudden death of Kyle Busch, the two‑time Nascar Cup Series champion who died at 41 after being hospitalized with a severe illness. Fellow drivers and former rivals praised his intensity, talent and influence on the sport while expressing condolences to his family. Details emerged that he became unresponsive while testing in a Chevrolet simulator before being rushed to a hospital. Sports organizations honored him with tributes, and donations increased to the fertility‑assistance foundation he founded with his wife, reflecting widespread admiration for his legacy.

Hakeem Jeffries backed the NAACP’s call for Black college athletes to boycott public universities in eight southern states that have advanced new voter maps following a Supreme Court ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act. The campaign targets major SEC athletic programs and urges recruits, current athletes, and supporters to withhold commitments and financial backing until fair maps and meaningful Black representation are restored. Jeffries linked the moment to historic athlete activism and criticized universities for remaining silent. The Congressional Black Caucus also opposed the bipartisan Score Act, delaying its House vote, to protest universities’ inaction on voting rights.

Alphonso Davies will miss several weeks with a hamstring injury sustained during Bayern Munich’s Champions League semi-final, raising concerns about his readiness for Canada’s opening World Cup match in June. Canada Soccer is coordinating with Bayern’s medical team to support his recovery after a series of muscle problems following a previous ACL tear. The setback continues Davies’s prolonged absence from the national team, while Canada awaits Jesse Marsch’s final World Cup roster later in the month.

Analysts predict another dominant season for the Las Vegas Aces as the WNBA enters its 30th year, citing their deep roster, elite coaching and A’ja Wilson’s continued MVP‑level play. Expansion teams bring renewed interest, while several franchises, including the Wings, Sparks, and Mystics, are identified as potential surprise performers. Olivia Miles, Flau’jae Johnson and Azzi Fudd emerge as leading rookie‑of‑the‑year contenders. Despite varied bold predictions, most forecasts point to the Aces repeating as champions, solidifying their growing dynasty.