Scott Trotter

Lee Westwood has criticized Rory McIlroy after McIlroy questioned the value LIV Golf players bring to tournaments and reiterated that LIV has been bad for golf. Westwood defended the breakaway league’s players, arguing that promoters and sponsors want them because they add quality and value. The dispute follows invitations for Westwood, Ian Poulter, Tyrrell Hatton and Cameron Smith to compete in October’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, marking a return for some LIV players to a DP World Tour event after a dispute over fines. Scottie Scheffler offered a more conciliatory view, saying several LIV players could strengthen the tour and that he would welcome more opportunities to compete against them.

The BBC has agreed to show 38 Serie A matches during the 2026/27 season, with one game per week broadcast free-to-air through BBC Scotland, BBC Alba and BBC iPlayer. BBC Scotland will produce the coverage, while BBC Alba will show selected matches in Gaelic and English alongside existing rights holders TNT Sports and DAZN. The deal reflects growing Scottish interest in Italy’s top flight, driven by players including Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour, with Sassuolo versus Atalanta set to open the coverage.

Thirty-two mountaineers stranded on Mont Blanc after rockfalls made the Goûter route hazardous were offered a private helicopter evacuation costing €95 per person, rather than a free state rescue. Saint-Gervais mayor Jean-Marc Peillex said the climbers had ignored warnings and should pay the €2,592 bill; some declined the flight and descended on foot. French alpine-club chairman Charles Van der Elst disputed the mayor’s characterization of the group. The dispute reflects a broader debate over whether climbers, particularly foreign nationals or those deemed inadequately prepared, should bear the cost of mountain rescues instead of the state or insurers.

Referee-cam footage from the World Cup final reportedly captures Slavko Vincic repeatedly asking Lionel Messi to control Argentina teammate Leandro Paredes, who had already been booked and was involved in violent post-match incidents. FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Paredes, Nahuel Molina and coach Roberto Ayala over alleged assaults on Spain players. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente condemned the behavior and praised his team for remaining composed. Paredes later attracted further controversy after returning to club football with Boca Juniors.

The Korean Football Association apologised after reports alleged that corporate cards were used to pay for sexual entertainment for 10 foreign refereeing officials during seven international matches in 2011 and 2012. The allegations emerged from a government audit, while Seoul police separately raided the association as part of an investigation into Hong Myung-bo’s appointment as head coach. Hong later resigned after South Korea failed to advance from its World Cup group, prompting strong criticism from President Lee Jae-myung and renewed scrutiny of the KFA’s leadership and decision-making.

A violent altercation broke out among supporters in Port Vale’s away end during Wolverhampton Wanderers’ 3–0 Carabao Cup victory at Molineux. Punches were thrown near young children, prompting police to intervene and disperse the fans. Port Vale said it would work with Wolves and relevant authorities to establish the facts and consider appropriate action. On the pitch, Wolves scored all three goals in the first half, while Port Vale manager Jon Brady praised his team’s attacking approach and effort against the Championship side.

Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as England Lions head coach after less than two years and will join Sydney Thunder in Australia's Big Bash League later in 2026. In a statement, he thanked the Lions staff and young players, while ECB officials Ed Barney and Rob Key praised his impact and defended his commitment to English cricket. Mike Yardy will temporarily replace him for an upcoming match against Pakistan. Flintoff's return to coaching followed his recovery from serious injuries and mental-health difficulties after the 2022 Top Gear crash.

Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are expected to meet in a major heavyweight bout in November, with the United States—possibly Madison Square Garden—being considered despite a contract reportedly requiring the fight to take place in the UK. Netflix may target a Friday date, potentially November 20, to avoid a college football clash. Fury remains uncertain about the venue, while promoter Eddie Hearn says the agreement was designed for a UK fight. The winner could also receive a future WBA title opportunity from Murat Gassiev.

Tottenham have reportedly been offered the chance to sign Monaco and United States striker Folarin Balogun for a competitive fee. The 25-year-old, formerly of Arsenal, has an uncertain long-term role at Monaco, although any transfer would benefit Arsenal through a 17.5% sell-on clause. Balogun scored three goals at the World Cup but became embroiled in controversy when his red-card suspension was temporarily halted, reportedly following pressure involving Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Wayne Rooney criticized the decision as unfair and damaging to the sport's credibility.

Barcelona's behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly with Preston North End at St. George's Park was cancelled shortly before kick-off after Preston proposed using its under-21 squad rather than risking senior players ahead of the League Cup. Barcelona declined and will train instead, returning to Spain earlier than planned before further friendlies against Udinese, Nottingham Forest and Al Ahly. Preston are also dealing with captain Ben Whiteman's reported attempt to force a move to Wrexham, with manager Paul Heckingbottom saying the transfer depends on Wrexham meeting the club's valuation.

Arsenal are reportedly pursuing Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior while continuing to monitor Atlético Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. A potential double signing would represent a major statement as Arsenal defend their Premier League title, although Alvarez is said to be interested in Barcelona and Atlético remain reluctant to sell. A separate move for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is also reportedly progressing, potentially giving Mikel Arteta significantly greater squad depth and attacking options.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Atlético Madrid 2-1 in a pre-season match in Solna, Sweden. Bryan Mbeumo scored both goals, including a penalty, while Shea Lacey won the spot-kick and 15-year-old JJ Gabriel made his senior debut. Mason Mount continued to impress in midfield, and manager Michael Carrick's pressing and attacking patterns were praised. The match also raised questions about possible departures involving Zirkzee, Radek Vitek and Altay Bayindir, while United's defending remains an area for improvement before the season begins.

Yan Diomande missed RB Leipzig’s pre-season friendly after reportedly calling in sick amid stalled talks over Real Madrid’s latest offer. The winger remains keen on a move to Madrid, leaving Liverpool’s already slim interest further weakened. Liverpool may instead pursue Bradley Barcola if PSG completes its move for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, although reported valuations of £128.5 million to £145 million could complicate negotiations.

Gianni Infantino assured Donald Trump he would review Folarin Balogun’s red card during the World Cup after the US president contacted him about the potential ban. FIFA’s legal chief Emilio García Silvero was instructed to prioritise the case, leading to a suspended punishment that allowed Balogun to play against Belgium, who ultimately eliminated the United States. Trump later highlighted his role while praising Infantino, who defended the tournament and received Trump’s backing for a possible United Nations Secretary‑General bid.

Leandro Paredes declined to apologise for his violent conduct after Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain, despite footage showing him punching and kicking opposition players. FIFA removed a reported red card from the record but has launched an investigation into the post‑match altercation. Paredes issued a statement expressing pride in Argentina’s efforts rather than remorse. Pundits Alan Shearer and Joe Hart condemned the behaviour, while Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni claimed his team accepted defeat respectfully.

Argentina’s president Javier Milei declared a forthcoming national holiday to honour the national team upon their return from the World Cup despite a contentious final marked by fouls, a red card for Enzo Fernandez and post‑match clashes following Spain’s extra‑time victory. Milei praised the squad’s achievements and said the holiday date would depend on the team’s preference. Some players will return directly to their clubs or begin holidays rather than travel back to Buenos Aires. Coach Lionel Scaloni, emotional after the loss and nearing the end of his contract, said he would discuss his future with the federation president.

A 27-minute half-time break during the World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina drew widespread fan criticism after an extended performance featuring several major artists exceeded the expected duration. FIFA had planned a shorter interval, but setup and teardown delays prolonged the break, prompting complaints on social media and mixed reactions from pundits. Broadcasters BBC and ITV adjusted coverage due to the delay, while concerns were raised over FIFA’s recurring extended intervals after a similar incident at the Club World Cup.

Scottie Scheffler defended Bryson DeChambeau after DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty at The Open for improving his lie, stating that while the player may have been careless, he was not intentionally cheating. Scheffler called for stricter officiating but noted that heavy camera scrutiny can distort perceptions of incidents. Bryson DeChambeau’s heated dispute with R&A officials delayed tee times, drawing strong criticism from Rory McIlroy, who argued the penalty was justified and condemned DeChambeau’s behaviour during the tournament delay.

Scottie Scheffler expressed visible frustration after an errant tee shot on the 17th hole during the final round of The Open at Royal Birkdale, leading to a complex ruling involving a temporary immovable obstruction. After taking a drop, he recovered to make a birdie and moved within one shot of the clubhouse lead, but a par on the 18th ended his chances of contention. Despite strong approach play throughout the tournament, he struggled with putting consistency and finished with a final-round 67 at seven under. The performance marked an improvement from his missed cut at the Scottish Open the previous week.

Manchester United activated a little‑known £35 million release clause to sign Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, surprising even some involved in his original move to the Midlands club. Tielemans signed a five‑year deal as part of United’s midfield rebuild alongside Andrey Santos after the club abandoned a move for Atalanta’s Ederson. The midfielder insisted on speaking with Villa manager Unai Emery before talks progressed and expressed pride in joining United. Director of football Jason Wilcox highlighted Tielemans’ quality and leadership as key assets for the squad.

New footage shows Jude Bellingham striking Valentin Barco after England’s World Cup defeat to Argentina, triggering a brief melee involving players from both sides. The incident followed earlier provocation when Barco confronted England players during Argentina’s equaliser. Argentina advanced to the final with goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez after England had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon. Manager Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions and praised his squad’s mentality despite the semifinal exit.

England manager Thomas Tuchel will remain in charge for Euro 2028 despite intense criticism following the World Cup semi‑final defeat to Argentina. The Football Association and chief executive Mark Bullingham reaffirmed their support, citing the team’s overall effort. Former players including Iker Casillas, Thomas Müller and Chris Sutton condemned England’s defensive approach after taking the lead, arguing Tuchel’s tactical choices shifted momentum to Argentina. Tuchel defended his decisions, stating he had no regrets and believed the team performed strongly despite failing to hold their advantage.

Criticism from former England forwards Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent suggests Noni Madueke’s poor showing against Norway may cost him a starting place in the World Cup semifinal against Argentina. Both argue that his ineffective crossing, positioning errors and lack of confidence justify replacing him, with Agbonlahor proposing Marcus Rashford as a better option on the right flank. Bukayo Saka remains an alternative depending on fitness, while England prepare for a high‑stakes match with limited margin for error.

England prepares to face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final with Ismail Elfath appointed as referee despite earlier criticism of his leniency. A racism controversy involving Mariano Rajoy’s comments about France’s squad draws responses from French players. England expects Declan Rice to return, while UK authorities plan a conditional bank holiday if the team reaches the final. Other updates include Gianni Infantino’s departure to pay respects in Qatar, speculation about Lionel Messi’s World Cup future, and various team and player developments across the tournament.

Roy Keane joked about Jordan Henderson’s recent wrist injury while analysing France’s 2-0 World Cup quarter-final win over Morocco, sparked by Kylian Mbappe’s energetic celebrations despite earlier injury concerns. Mbappe’s performance and recovery drew remarks from ITV pundits, while Henderson’s condition was updated following surgery. Commentary highlighted France’s status as tournament favourites, with Patrick Vieira praising the team’s generational talent and Keane noting their superiority and the challenge of beating them.

Jannik Sinner avoided practising near Novak Djokovic by switching courts ahead of their upcoming Wimbledon semi‑final. Sinner, who recently defeated Djokovic in previous meetings, is preparing carefully while acknowledging the challenge posed by Djokovic’s experience on grass. Djokovic, recovering from a demanding five‑set quarter‑final, completed a full training session and praised Sinner’s current form. Both players anticipate a difficult match as they head into Friday’s semifinal.

A prolonged VAR delay before Kylian Mbappe’s penalty in France’s World Cup quarter-final against Morocco led to a missed attempt and an angry confrontation with referee Facundo Tello. ITV pundits criticised both the delay and Mbappe’s execution, with Roy Keane calling the wait unfair and others describing the penalty as poor. The all-Argentine officiating team drew complaints from French supporters, prompting FIFA’s Pierluigi Collina to dismiss suggestions of bias.

Storms in New York forced ITV’s World Cup 2026 pundit team, including Roy Keane, Ian Wright and Patrick Vieira, to abandon their outdoor rooftop studio and move indoors due to lightning regulations. The broadcast shifted from the Panorama Brooklyn Studios loft to an interior setup, a change confirmed by presenter Mark Pougatch. Similar weather-related disruptions had affected previous ITV coverage during the tournament. Despite occasional interruptions, presenters have praised the New York studio setup, while the BBC has opted to remain in Salford for most coverage but may travel to the USA for the semi‑finals.

Xabi Alonso used his first interview as Chelsea head coach to stress hard work as a non-negotiable and to build a strong team culture at Cobham. He highlighted the squad’s potential as a key factor in joining and called for unity to restore energy at Stamford Bridge. Pre-season began with several players reporting for training as Alonso outlined his vision for collective belief and long-term success.

Arsene Wenger predicts France will win the 2026 World Cup, identifying Spain as the only team with the technical quality to challenge them. He highlights France’s physical strength and Spain’s collective football culture while noting recent Spanish victories in their direct encounters. France must defeat Morocco and Spain must overcome Belgium for a potential semi‑final meeting, with England and Argentina positioned on the opposite side of the draw.

Argentina overturned a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the World Cup round of 16 after VAR controversially disallowed a Mostka Ziko goal for a minor foul earlier in the buildup. The call prompted heavy criticism from fans and journalists, with many accusing FIFA of unfairly influencing matches. Lionel Messi led the comeback with a volleyed equaliser before Enzo Fernandez sealed the win in stoppage time, intensifying debate over inconsistent use of VAR throughout the tournament.

September’s Premier League TV schedule includes multiple fixture changes, with the Manchester derby moved to Sunday 13 September in the first meeting between Michael Carrick and Enzo Maresca. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool all see several matches rescheduled to accommodate broadcasters and European commitments. A detailed list outlines new dates and kickoff times across late August and September as teams balance domestic and continental competitions.

A dispute escalates after Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla makes racist remarks about Kylian Mbappe following France’s World Cup win, prompting Mbappe to denounce her publicly. Amarilla issues an open letter demanding an apology and threatens legal action for alleged gender-based violence while expressing regret for some of her statements. The French Football Federation and the Paraguayan government condemn her comments as unacceptable and contrary to national values, with the FFF referring the matter for potential legal proceedings.

Norway's preparations for their World Cup quarter-final against England have been disrupted by widespread illness and fatigue within the squad, attributed partly to extensive travel across the United States. Key players including Jorgen Strand Larsen and Marcus Holmgren Pedersen have missed matches due to sickness, while manager Stale Solbakken has acknowledged ongoing issues but downplayed major concerns. Norway, led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, enter their first-ever quarter-final after victories over Brazil and Ivory Coast, while England face their own challenges following difficult travel conditions ahead of the Miami clash.

Thomas Tuchel criticised the officiating in England’s 3-2 World Cup win over Mexico, arguing VAR decisions and card rulings were substandard. Joe Hart countered that the referee’s choices were reasonable and that Tuchel’s focus should have stayed on his team’s strong performance despite playing with ten men. Tuchel also questioned the suspension of Folarin Balogun’s ban after a reported call from Donald Trump to Gianni Infantino, a move FIFA says was not influential.

Belgium’s football association plans to challenge Folarin Balogun’s eligibility for the World Cup quarter-final after FIFA dismissed its appeal over the striker’s suspension being lifted. Balogun’s red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina had initially triggered a one-match ban, but FIFA suspended the punishment for a year. The decision drew scrutiny following Donald Trump’s call to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who insisted the process was handled independently. Belgium criticised FIFA for poor communication and procedural irregularities and intends to continue disputing the ruling in defence of fair competition principles.

Marcus Rashford impressed teammates during England’s final training session in Mexico with a standout skill move that drew laughter and praise from players including Harry Kane and Declan Rice. Bukayo Saka and Jordan Henderson highlighted his consistent ability to outmaneuver defenders. England prepared amid minor off‑pitch distractions as Thomas Tuchel emphasized maintaining calm before their World Cup last‑16 match against Mexico.

Chelsea are open to offers for midfielder Andrey Santos, with Manchester United and Newcastle among the clubs interested. Despite four years remaining on his contract, Chelsea will sell if their valuation is met as they look to reshape their midfield. Enzo Fernandez is also available for a high fee, though a sale appears unlikely after Real Madrid ruled out a move. Chelsea continue to pursue new midfield options, including Valentin Barco, while their effort to sign Granit Xhaka has been rejected by Sunderland.

France advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over Paraguay in a tense and physical match in Philadelphia, where Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive penalty and faced persistent aggressive challenges. Concerned about potential post-match confrontations, Didier Deschamps instructed strong bench players to protect Mbappe at the final whistle. Paraguay’s frustration escalated after the match, but France’s players avoided escalation and celebrated their victory. Mbappe and Rayan Cherki highlighted the team's readiness for a physical contest, while Joe Hart praised Mbappe’s composure and condemned Paraguay’s conduct. Sky Glass TVs were briefly promoted through an affiliate link.

France advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a tense win over Paraguay marked by aggressive play and post-match confrontations. Kylian Mbappe's penalty decided a match filled with clashes and frustration, with pundits sharply criticising Paraguay's behaviour and the referee's performance. Some analysts defended Paraguay under the tournament’s lighter disciplinary standard, while others praised France's composure. France now face Morocco in the next round.

Newcastle United have rejected interest from Arsenal in Bruno Guimaraes, considering the midfielder priceless and preparing a new contract despite his representatives speaking with other clubs. With Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon already sold, Newcastle are exploring contingency options including Felix Nmecha, though Borussia Dortmund value him at over £100m. Other targets such as Lamine Camara appear unlikely. Arsenal continue to pursue reinforcements, particularly on the left side of their attack, with Morgan Rogers and Bradley Barcola among their options.

Kylian Mbappe checked on a Paraguayan fan he accidentally struck with an off-target warm‑up shot before France’s World Cup last‑16 match, demonstrating quick concern despite the high‑stakes setting. Mbappe enters the match as one of the tournament’s top scorers but emphasised his focus on winning the title over individual records. Didier Deschamps warned that Paraguay’s tenacity and quality make them difficult opponents, noting their penalty‑shootout win over Germany.

Portugal advanced to the World Cup last 16 after a contentious VAR decision overturned Croatia’s late equalizer, prompting emotional scenes as Cristiano Ronaldo comforted a distraught Petar Sucic. FIFA later detailed that ball‑tracking technology detected a touch by Igor Matanovic, validating the offside ruling, though Croatian players remained unconvinced and called for clearer explanations of multiple decisions that went against them.

Julian Nagelsmann resigned as Germany’s national team coach following the country’s shock World Cup Round of 32 exit to Paraguay. Despite initially intending to stay, discussions with the German Football Association led to his departure. Jurgen Klopp, currently working as a World Cup pundit, has indicated willingness to take over and is the organization’s preferred candidate. Germany’s continued struggles in knockout stages extend back to 2014, with early exits under multiple managers. Nagelsmann expressed gratitude to staff, players and fans, acknowledging the disappointment of the tournament outcome.

Spain, Portugal and Switzerland advanced in the World Cup, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his first knockout-stage goal as Portugal defeated Croatia amid a controversial VAR decision later explained by FIFA. Ronaldo paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota, while Luka Modric likely played his final World Cup match. Switzerland progressed with goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye, and winger Johann Manzambi drew acclaim for a standout assist. Reports suggest Justin Bieber may perform at the final and Jurgen Klopp is poised to accept the Germany national team job. Last‑16 matchups are now confirmed.

Cristiano Ronaldo dismissed speculation about imminent retirement after Portugal’s World Cup win over Croatia, saying he will decide his future after the tournament. His sister had suggested it could be his final international appearance, but Ronaldo emphasized focusing on the present and helping the team prepare to face Spain. He also shared an emotional farewell message to Luka Modric following Croatia’s elimination. Portugal advanced with a late goal from Goncalo Ramos, while Croatia had a stoppage‑time equalizer ruled out by VAR.

Portugal advanced to the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 after VAR used microchip‑based Snicko technology in the Adidas Trionda ball to rule that Igor Matanovic had touched the ball before a deflection, placing Mario Pasalic offside ahead of Josko Gvardiol’s disallowed stoppage‑time goal. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty and had another effort ruled offside, ultimately earning Man of the Match. Broadcaster analysis and official feedback confirmed the decision as Portugal progressed to face Spain.

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in the World Cup after Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored an equalising penalty, was substituted late in the match and showed visible frustration. Analysts described manager Roberto Martinez’s decision to replace him as sensible for maintaining team performance. Despite his reaction, Ronaldo celebrated the team’s progression to the last 16 and honoured the late Diogo Jota during post‑match celebrations.

A Croatia equaliser against Portugal in the 2026 World Cup was ruled offside after VAR determined Igor Matanovic touched the ball before Josko Gvardiol scored, prompting Croatian fans to throw bottles onto the pitch and halt the match. Analysts debated whether the touch occurred, with some disputing the available angles. Portugal had taken the lead through Goncalo Ramos after Cristiano Ronaldo cancelled out Ivan Perisic’s opener, and they advance to face Spain in the last 16.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal with a penalty against Croatia, ending a long-running drought at age 41. The equaliser followed an earlier disallowed effort and came amid speculation about his imminent international retirement, reinforced by comments from his sister, Katia Aveiro. Expert analysis praised his mentality despite Portugal manager Roberto Martinez substituting him in the 80th minute, a decision Ronaldo appeared to resent.

Riot police used water cannons and made arrests in multiple Dutch cities after celebrations by the country’s Moroccan community following Morocco’s penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup turned disorderly. Fireworks, car horn processions and isolated clashes were reported in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam and The Hague, where officers were targeted with stones and fireworks. Normality returned by early morning. On the pitch, Morocco equalised late before winning on penalties, prompting criticism from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who blamed Ronald Koeman for abandoning the Dutch team’s traditional attacking identity.

Portugal’s national team held a moment of silence in Miami after Ricardo Carvalho learned of his father’s death, with Cristiano Ronaldo and teammates offering condolences. The Portuguese Football Federation issued a statement expressing sympathy, and a team adviser reiterated support during a press conference. Carvalho will travel home for the funeral as Portugal prepares for its World Cup knockout match against Croatia, leaving his involvement uncertain.