Tom Earnshaw

Wimbledon 2026 features increased prize money totaling £64.2 million, with singles champions earning £3.6 million each. The women’s final takes place on 11 July and the men’s final on 12 July, with supporting doubles and wheelchair finals scheduled across both days. Players staged early protests seeking higher compensation before reaching a compromise. Prize money has risen across all rounds and competitions, with doubles and mixed doubles pots also increasing from 2025 levels.

Conor McGregor returns at UFC 329 to face Max Holloway in their long-awaited rematch, headlining a card that also features Paddy Pimblett against Benoit Saint-Denis. The event takes place on 11 July at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with prelims beginning at 10pm BST and the main card starting at 2am BST. UK viewers can watch via TNT Sports Box Office or Prime Video, while U.S. viewers can stream on Paramount+. Betting odds favour Holloway, who is tipped as the likely winner.

Nine major UK banks have agreed to improve access to basic bank accounts after an FCA investigation found poor treatment of vulnerable customers. The institutions will implement plans to ensure appropriate accounts are offered, simplify processes for people lacking standard identification or fixed addresses, and provide alternatives to online-only applications. FCA and UK Finance leaders emphasised the importance of basic accounts for financial inclusion. Separately, MPs urged the government to reverse plans to freeze the Plan 2 student loan repayment threshold, arguing the proposal would unfairly increase repayment burdens.

Donald Trump’s involvement in multiple major sporting events has fueled an online “Trump curse” narrative after a series of high-profile losses by teams he supports or events he attends. His intervention in Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red card, appearances at the NBA Finals, predictions before the Super Bowl, attendance at NFL and college football games, and presence at the Ryder Cup have all coincided with defeats for the American athletes or teams involved, reinforcing the perception of an unlucky pattern.

Weather forecasts warn of high heat, humidity and possible thunderstorms that could disrupt England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway in Miami. Experts suggest heat poses the biggest challenge despite only a slight chance of rain. England may explore appealing Jarell Quansah’s red card after Folarin Balogun’s was overturned through political intervention, while Jordan Henderson is ruled out with a wrist injury.

MPs on the Treasury Select Committee urged the government to reverse its decision to freeze the Plan 2 student loan repayment threshold, arguing that the policy increases financial pressure on graduates and undermines trust in the loan system. The committee identified cases of mis-selling by the Department for Education and the Student Loans Company, highlighting unclear communication about the government’s ability to change loan terms retrospectively. While the government acknowledged the system’s problems, it has not committed to reversing the freeze. MPs said unfreezing the threshold would be a modest but essential step toward restoring fairness in student finance.

Ryanair warns passengers of significant delays and potential missed flights due to the EU’s newly implemented Entry/Exit System, citing inadequate staffing, insufficient infrastructure and system instability at multiple European airports. The airline urges European governments to postpone EES implementation until after summer to avoid heavy congestion and travel disruption. Reports from affected airports indicate inconsistent processing times and occasional system failures, raising concerns as peak holiday travel begins.

Rockstar confirmed pricing for Grand Theft Auto VI, with the standard edition set at $79.99 and the Ultimate Edition at $99.99. Pre‑loading for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S begins on 12 November to ensure smooth access for the 19 November release. The Ultimate Edition includesexclusive vehicles, weapons, outfits, and customisation options, while all pre‑orders receive a Vintage Vice City Pack. Rockstar reiterated that no true early access is available and warned players about ongoing cryptocurrency‑based scam attempts.

Tech security experts warn of new scam websites falsely offering early access to Grand Theft Auto VI in exchange for cryptocurrency payments. Malwarebytes reports that the sites mimic official GTA 6 branding and charge around $250 in Bitcoin, Ethereum or Tether, but provide nothing in return and offer no way to recover funds. Consumers are urged to wait for the official release on 19 November or pre-order through legitimate channels.

New regulations under the Renters' Rights Act give UK councils authority to fine landlords up to £7,000 for failing to fix serious hazards such as mould, cold, electrical faults, fire risks and structural dangers. The act abolishes Section 21 evictions, shifting landlords to Section 8 procedures that require valid grounds and court approval. Tenant groups welcome stronger enforcement powers while landlords must also provide renters with the official information sheet or face penalties. A list of 21 hazards outlines conditions that can trigger fines as the law aims to raise safety standards across rented homes.

Venezuela Fury defends her decision to marry at 16, stating that criticism from strangers does not concern her and emphasizing her happiness with husband Noah Price. She discusses adjusting to married life and reveals she hopes to secure her own reality TV show after appearing again in Netflix’s At Home With The Furys. Supported by her parents Tyson and Paris Fury, she highlights that they began their own relationship young, while Price says he always intended to marry her.

A French retailer briefly listed five editions of Grand Theft Auto VI with prices reaching €199.99, sparking speculation that the game could exceed a $200 price tag. Gaming insider billbil-kun stated the listings are likely placeholders, noting the barcodes do not match Take-Two’s usual prefixes. Official pricing is expected when pre-orders open on 25 June, with multiple editions anticipated and premium versions potentially costing significantly more.

Civil Aviation Authority statistics show TUI Airways among the UK’s worst airlines for punctuality in 2025, averaging delays of over 20 minutes, with its Birmingham-to-Zante route exceeding 45 minutes. Air India topped the delay rankings. Consumer advocates criticised rising fares and unreliable service, urging passengers to pursue compensation claims. TUI said it prioritises operating flights even when delayed to avoid cancellations and minimise disruption.

The Met Office issued a red weather warning for extreme heat across parts of England and Wales, advising of potential danger to life as temperatures are forecast to reach 39°C. The alert runs from 24 to 25 June alongside a broader amber warning already in effect. Authorities warn of health risks, infrastructure strain, travel disruptions and increased water safety incidents. Vulnerable groups are urged to take precautions, and the public is advised to stay hydrated, avoid peak sun and prepare for potential service disruptions.

HMRC and the Student Loans Company acknowledged technical errors affecting around 71,000 Plan 2 student loan borrowers, leading to incorrect interest calculations and overpayments. Refunds will be issued automatically, with balance corrections expected by October. The issue stemmed from incorrect income data and an HMRC reporting problem involving PAYE and Self Assessment. The article also highlights criticism of the government’s decision to freeze the Plan 2 repayment threshold until 2029, with concerns it effectively increases repayment burdens through fiscal drag.

Research linking substantial tooth loss to an increased risk of colorectal cancer is highlighted, with Dr. Joe Whittington explaining that advanced gum disease and related oral bacteria may contribute to systemic inflammation and tumor growth. The elevated risk is most notable in individuals with fewer than 17 teeth or those with gum disease who have lost several teeth. While a single missing tooth is not considered a warning sign, multiple missing teeth due to gum disease may warrant discussing colorectal cancer screening with a healthcare provider.