Tom Harrison, CEO of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), faced a tumultuous year marked by the financial impact of the pandemic and a racism scandal exposed by former player Azeem Rafiq at Yorkshire County Cricket Club. Despite criticism for the ECB's delayed response to the scandal, Harrison has introduced a 12-point diversity plan and successfully staged The Hundred, a new cricket tournament aimed at a broader audience. The ECB also navigated the challenges of rescheduling international matches due to COVID-19, while maintaining the primacy of Test cricket amidst the growing influence of short-form games like the Indian Premier League.

Billionaire Rocco Commisso acquired ACF Fiorentina as part of a trend of foreign investments in Italian football clubs, driven by the league's status and potential for value increase. Eight of the 20 Serie A clubs now have non-Italian owners, with significant investments from American individuals and financial groups. However, these new owners face challenges such as outdated stadiums, local political issues, and financial difficulties exacerbated by the pandemic. The value of Serie A's broadcast rights has also declined, leading to financial instability among clubs. Despite these challenges, investors like Commisso remain optimistic about the long-term potential of their investments.

Ahmed, now a Cluster Executive Assistant Manager at JA The Resort in Dubai, shares his journey from a reservations agent to a recruiter. He emphasizes the importance of eagerness to learn, passion, and dedication for career advancement. Ahmed highlights the significance of a 50-50 effort from both employer and employee for success. He also provides tips for job seekers, stressing the need for ambition and a willingness to learn. The article underscores the supportive role of JA Resorts and Hotels and the encouragement from the Government of Dubai for Emiratis to join the private sector.

Andrea Agnelli, former president of Juventus, discusses his tenure, the controversial European Super League project, and his subsequent fall from grace due to a financial scandal. Agnelli reflects on his family's legacy, his professional challenges, and his future ambitions, including a new sports technology venture and a revised Super League proposal. The article highlights the criticisms Agnelli faced from fans, football executives, and the broader football community, as well as his personal reflections on these events.

The article discusses the increasing problem of space junk due to the growing number of satellites being launched into low earth orbit. It highlights the risks posed by space debris, including the potential for collisions that could create more fragments and further endanger operational satellites. The piece also touches on the geopolitical challenges in establishing regulations for space activity, with countries like the US, China, and Russia having conflicting interests. The urgency of addressing space debris is emphasized, comparing it to the environmental issues faced on Earth due to industrialization.

The longstanding partnership between Electronic Arts (EA) and Fifa is at risk due to a dispute over the value of the Fifa name. EA is considering rebranding its popular soccer video game franchise, potentially moving forward with the name 'EA Sports F.C.' The conflict arises as Fifa seeks a significant increase in its licensing fee, while EA aims for broader rights, including digital memorabilia and esports tournaments. Despite the potential split, EA has secured numerous naming licenses with major football organizations to ensure the game's continuity. The outcome of this dispute could reshape the future of soccer video games and the business dynamics between EA and Fifa.

The longstanding partnership between Electronic Arts (EA) and FIFA is at risk due to a dispute over the value of the FIFA name. EA, which has trademarked 'EA Sports F.C.', is considering dropping the FIFA name after their contract expires in 2022. The conflict underscores the growing tension within the sport as stakeholders seek a larger share of the game's success. EA's FIFA video game is a significant revenue generator, with substantial in-game purchases contributing to its profitability. FIFA is demanding a significant increase in its annual fee from EA, leveraging the game's success.

A consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, including British financier Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers, acquired Newcastle United from Mike Ashley for £305m. The deal, which faced political and commercial challenges, was influenced by geopolitical events such as the US election and a Gulf detente. The Premier League's Owners and Directors' Test was a significant hurdle due to Saudi Arabia's alleged involvement in beoutQ, a pirate TV network. The resolution involved legally binding assurances that Saudi Arabia would not control the club, despite skepticism about the separation between the PIF and the Saudi state. Fans celebrated the takeover, anticipating increased investment in the club.

Manchester United's annual losses widened due to the pandemic's impact on ticket sales, merchandising, and sponsorships. Revenues fell to £494.1 million, with a net loss of £92.2 million, primarily due to accounting changes related to the British corporate tax rate. Despite these challenges, the club showed resilience, with an increase in broadcasting income and a reduction in net debt. The wage bill rose significantly, and further increases are expected with the signing of high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo.

European football clubs have reduced their spending on player transfers due to financial losses from the pandemic. The summer transfer window saw significant moves, including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but overall spending was lower than previous years. The Premier League clubs remained the most active, with notable expenditures by Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea. The article highlights the shift towards free transfers and loan deals as clubs manage high player salaries and financial constraints.