Transfer yapılmadı... Lemina da cezalı. Peki Okan Buruk, Juventus maçında defansif 8 numara olarak kimi kullanacak? İki aday öne çıkıyor. Roland Sallai ve Davinson.
Şampiyonlar Ligi'ndeki kritik Juventus virajı öncesi Okan Buruk ideal 11'i üzerinde fikir yürütüyor... Orta saha transferinin yetişmemesi ve Mario Lemina’nın cezalı duruma düşmesi, teknik heyeti alternatif planlara yöneltti.
Okan Buruk, orta sahadaki boşluğu doldurmak için antrenmanlarda sürpriz denemeler yapıyor. Önce Singo denendi. Cevap olumsuz oldu. Şimdi de Sallai ve Davinson gündemi var.
Eldeki kısıtlı kadro nedeniyle savunma hattında rotasyona giden Buruk, Singo'yu stopere çekerek savunmanın sigortası olmasını düşünüyor. Sallai'yi de dinamizmi ve oyun bilgisiyle ön libero mevkisinde görev alacak. Davinson'un a ön libero oynama ihtimali çıkıyor.
Zorlu fikstür hakkında açıklamalarda bulunan tecrübeli teknik adam, taraftara umut verdi:
- Önce Eyüpspor maçı, ardından Juventus maçına çıkacağız. Galatasaray taraftarının bizden beklentisi çok yüksek. İnşallah bu beklentilere layık olmaya çalışacağız.
El Bilal Toure, santrfor Oh'un gelmesiyle sol açık pozisyonundaki görevine dönecek. Asllani formayı alınca Oliatan da rotasyona düşecek.
Taraftarı heyecanlandıran isimlerin takıma katılmasıyla birlikte Sergen Yalçın'ın elinde alternatifli ve dinamik bir rotasyon oluştu. Gelen bilgiler sahadaki dengelerin önemli ölçüde değişeceğini gösteriyor.
Transferlerin tamamlanmasıyla birlikte Beşiktaş'ın ileri uçtaki planlaması da güncellenecek.
El Bilal Toure, Oh'un gelmesiyle sol açık pozisyonundaki görevine dönecek.
Koreli, santrfor bölgesinde görev yapmaya devam edecek.
Yeni transferlerden Cerny kanattaki yerini sağlamlaştırırken, bu hamle sonrası Cengiz Ünder'in kulübeye çekilmesi bekleniyor.
Orta saha kurgusunda ise en kritik hamle Kristjan Asllani üzerinden yapılacak.
Genç yıldızın gelişiyle birlikte Oliatan rotasyona düşecek. Beşiktaş, daha yaratıcı bir kanat organizasyonu ve Asllani liderliğindeki bir orta saha ile ligin ikinci yarısını en yüksek puanla tamamlamayı planlıyor.
Galatasaray, Mauro Icardi'ye 4.5-5 milyon Euro civarında bir rakam düşünüyor... Menajerinin kullandığı tahmin edilen İtalyan basını ise bu rakamı 7 milyon Euro olarak ortaya koydu.
Galatasaray yönetimi taraftarın sevgilisi Mauro Icardi için sezon sonunda masaya oturmaya hazırlanıyor. Henüz resmi görüşmeler başlamamış olsa da kulübün planı net...
- İndirim yap, bizimle kal.
Yönetimin sezon sonunda 4-5 milyon Euro bandında bir teklifle Icardi'nin kapısını çalması bekleniyor. İtalyan Corriere dello Sport kısa süre önce rakamın 7 milyon Euro seviyelerinde olabileceğini ve Avrupa’dan birçok kulübün tetikte beklediğini iddia etti.
Geçmişte Al-Hilal’den gelen yıllık 40 milyon euro'luk dev teklifi elinin tersiyle iten Icardi’nin önceliği para değil gibi lanse edilmeye çalışılıyor. Arjantinli golcünün kariyerine Galatasaray’da devam etmek istediği ve resmi teklifi beklediği ise bilinen bir gerçek.
Icardi, devre arası iznini yarıda keserek İstanbul’a erken dönmesiyle profesyonelliğini bir kez daha kanıtladı. Fiziksel olarak "fit" bir görüntü sergilemeye başlayan yıldız oyuncu hakkında Okan Buruk'un fikri net. Rizespor maçındaki kısa ama etkili performansı Buruk’a umut oldu. Performansını bu seviyede tutarsa Icardi’nin aldığı süreler kademeli olarak artacak. Az süre almasına rağmen ligde attığı 10 golle takımın en skorer ismi olması, Icardi'nin elindeki en güçlü kozlardan biri.
Fenerbahçe Başkan Vekili Murat Salar, FBTV'de açıklamalarda bulundu. Salar; Bankalar Birliği anlaşmasından Lookman transferine, Fenerbahçe'nin Chobani anlaşması ve mevcut mali yapısına dek merak edilenleri açıkladı.
Fenerbahçe Başkan Vekili Murat Salar, FBTV’de açıklamalarda bulundu.
Salar’ın açıklamaları şu şekilde oldu:
“Biz göreve geldiğimizden bu yana yüksek divan kurulu toplantıları veya mali genel kurul toplantıları dışında konuşmamaya özen gösterdim. Şampiyonluk yarışındayız, transfer sürecimizi atlattık başarılı bir şekilde.
Negatif hava, algı ve bilgi kirliliği bana açıklama yapma gereğini düşürdü. Anlatılan şeylerin tamamı, Fenerbahçe’nin başarılı olduğu dönemde, camia ve yönetimin birleştiği dönemde, tamamen algıyı bozmaya, kötü niyetli olduğunu düşünüyorum. Kamuoyunda oluşan algı operasyonlarını düzeltmeye geldim.
Göreve gelmeden önce Fenerbahçe’nin borç sorunu yoktur, nakit akışı sorunu vardır dedik. 4.5 milyar lira borcumuz vardı. Salt faiz yükü 73 milyon euro.
Mazbata aldıktan sonra, 25 Ekim’de kongre üyelerimizden bu adımı atmaya dair yetki aldık. Finans departmanı ve diğer arkadaşlarımızın katkısıyla, 5 milyar tl ödenmiş sermaye arttı. Toplam 10 milyar liralık rüçhan hakkı kullanarak sermaye artışı yaptık. Bütün hisselerimizin üzerindeki temlikler kalktı.
Bankalar Birliği’nden çıkmadan önce gelirlerimizin yüzde 50’si bankalara gidiyordu. Şu an itibarıyla Fenerbahçe gelirlerinin tamamı Fenerbahçe’ye gidiyor.
Biz dedik ki, biz geldikten sonra Fenerbahçe faiz yüküyle hareket etmesin. Fenerbahçe’nin hiçbir bankaya 1 lira borcu yoktur.
Biz inşallah bir daha Bankalar Birliği anlaşması, negatif anlaşmada olmak istemiyoruz. Elimizden geldiğince doğru yönetmek için çaba sarf ediyoruz.
Passolig ile anlaşmaları, eski şartlara göre çok daha iyi şartlarda revize edildi. Bunların ücretlerinin hiçbirinin önden alınması mümkün değil.
Ekim 2025’te Passolig ile anlaştığımız şartlar, geçmişe göre lehine. Passolig anlaşmalarının, anlaşmanın imzalandığı zaman, bir imza parası var. Gelecek gelirlerle alakası olmayan bir para. Çağırdık kurumları teklif aldık. Bize teklif edilen rakamın 3 katına imza attık.
Gelecekteki Passolig’deki paraların bugüne kırdırılması hayal ürünü, doğru değil. Uygulamanın ne olduğunu öğrenmek lazım. Fenerbahçe’nin menfaatleri korunmuştur değil, maksimize edilmiştir. İmza parası alınmış, gelecekteki gelirler de artırılmıştır.
Aylık ortalama 50 milyon Euro ödeme yaptık. Bugün Fenerbahçe’de 1 kişinin alacağı yoktur. 1 milyar 400 milyar TL vadesi geçmiş alacakları da ödendi. 1 tek gün ödeme gecikmedi. 4.5 ayda 54 milyon Euro bonservis ödedik.
Biz seçilmeden önce dedik, sabır da istemiyoruz süre de istemiyoruz. Ancak yaptığımız iş bu kadar çarpık aksettirilirse, yanlış aktarılır. İnsanların niyetinden şüpheleniyoruz.
Eğer insanda utanma duygusu varsa, özür dilemen gerekir ya da taktir etmen gerekir. Ya da düz yalan söylüyorsun. Ozaman biz düzeltiriz.
LOOKMAN TRANSFERİ
Görev paylaşımlarımız var bizim. Kulübün mali işlerine bakıyorum. Transfer süreçlerinde bazı şeyler somutlaşmaya başlayınca, nakit akışındaki bilgi arkadaşlarım tarafından bana aktarılıyor. “Şu kadar ücret, yapabilir miyiz?” diye. Ben de araştırıyorum.
Lookman transferinde, bu süreçte dahil oldum. Atalanta kulübü, teminat mektubu istedi. Fenerbahçe kulübü, tarihi boyunca teminat mektubu vermemiştir, almamıştır. Uygulamada, pratikte olan bir şey değil. Biz bunu hakaret olarak algıladık. Hangi bankanın itibarı, 120 yıllık Fenerbahçe kulübünden daha yüksektir? Fenerbahçe’nin itibarının o kağıttan daha fazla olduğunu savunduk. Manchester United’dan, PSG’den oyuncu transfer ettik. Hiçbirine teminat mektubu vermedik. Fenerbahçe kulübü teminat mektupsuz transfer yaptı, yapacak. Başka bir İtalyan kulübü olan Lazio’nun teminat mektubu istemediği bir yerde, başka bir İtalyan kulübünün teminat mektubu istemesi kabul edilemez. Emsal teşkil etmesi açısından talep edilir. Tüm Türk takımları için bariyer oluşturur. Almak istedik, şartlarımızı zorladık ama literatürde olan bir şey değil. Fenerbahçe ne teminat mektubu vermiştir, ne de almıştır.
FENERBAHÇE'NİN BÜTÜN BONSERVİSLERİ ÖDENMİŞTİR
Fenerbahçe’nin bütün lisansı oyuncularının bonservis bedelleri Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü olarak ödenmiştir, ödenmeye devam ediyordur. Buradaki tartışmalar neye göre çıkıyor?
Yüksek Divan Kurulu’nda açıklama yaptım, 230 milyondu ödemelerimiz. 250 milyona çıktı. Eğer itirazını varsa, gelir bakarsınız.
Benim bugün bunu çıkıp anlatma ihtiyacım, camiamızın kenetlenmiş olması, kritik bir süreçte olmamız. 13 final maçına çıkacağız. Takımımız gayet iyi gidiyor. Gerçek olmayan, suni bir gündem oluşturuldu, bu yüzden buraya geldim. Fenerbahçe 250 milyon Euro ödeme yapmıştır. Anlaşılmayan ne var? Bilmiyorum.
Fenerbahçe Başkan Vekili Murat Salar olarak Hamdi Ulukaya’ya teşekkür ediyorum. 190 milyon Euro negatif nakit akışı vardı. Bunun çözümünü farklı finansal yöntemlerle bağlamak zorundasınız.
Bir tek gün nakit akışı ile ilgili şefaat dilemedik. İşimiz yapıyoruz. Yükümlülüklerimizi dile getiriyoruz. Seçilmiş Fenerbahçe yönetim kuruluyuz, etkimiz var. Herkes dönsün baksın Fenerbahçe’nin finansal durumuna. İlk defa nakit akışına bu kadar ihtiyaç duyulduysa, bunun kullanılmasının nesi yanlış?
Kimseyi suçlamadan, enkaz edebiyatı yapmadan işimizi yapıyoruz. Camiamızı negatif etkileyecek açıklamalardan lütfen kaçınılsın. Kötü niyetle, camiayı karıştırmak adına, botları ve trolleri kullandığın zaman negatif bir kamuoyu algısı yapmaya çalıştığını biliyoruz.
Kritik bir eşikteyiz. Bu döneme gelirken, önümüze zorluklar çıkarılacağını, çok sayıda insanın duasını alacağını bildik ama kötü niyetli insanların da neler yapacağını biliyorduk.
Takımımız iyi giderken, aynı odaklar tarafından, suni gündem yaratılarak saha dışına çekilmeye çalışıyoruz. İsteyen, istediği kadar eleştirebilir ama somut gerçeklerle.
Fenerbahçe’nin öz evladı Murat Salar olarak bir dileğim var: Lütfen bu insanların sosyal medya hesaplarından takipten çıkın. Orada ticari kaygı güdüyorlar. Fenerbahçe’nin üzerinden parasal menfaat elde ediyorlar. Fenerbahçe’ye zarar vermeyi kendine amaç edinmiş, gizli gündemlerle, birileriyle organize olarak, botlarla çalışarak bu gündemi yaratıp takımın konsantrasyonunu bozanları takipten çıkın. Yorum yazmayın, yok hükmünde olun. Biz tepki gösterdiğimizi zannediyoruz ama değirmenlerine su taşıyoruz. Bu akşam itibarıyla, rica ediyorum bu hesapları yok saysınlar.
13 final maçında, yarın her gün bunlar artarak devam edecek. Bize düşen, Fenerbahçe’nin kendi gündemine odaklanmalı. Düne göre daha güçlüyüz, şampiyonluk yarışının en büyük adayıyız. Allah’ın izniyle Mayıs ayında, belki daha önce şampiyonluk kutlamak istiyoruz, buna inanıyoruz.
Galatasaray taraftarıyla yarattığı ekonomi sayesinde Avrupa'nın en büyük 20 kulübünün kapısına dayandı... Şampiyonlar Ligi'ndeki rakibi Juventus'u da ezeli rakibi Fenerbahçe'yi de solladı.
Finans kurumu Deloitte’un hazırladığı "Football Money League 2026" raporunda Galatasaray, Avrupa'nın en yüksek gelir elde eden 21. kulübü olarak dünya devleri arasındaki yerini sağlamlaştırdı.
Sarı-kırmızılı ekip 273,6 milyon euroya ulaşan geliriyle listede 21. sırada yer aldı... Türkiye'deki en yakın rakibi Fenerbahçe, 216 milyon euro gelirle 28'nci sırada yer bulabildi. İki ezeli rakip arasındaki mali fark 57,6 milyon euro olarak kayıtlara geçti.
Galatasaray Divan Kurulu Üyesi Mete İkiz tarafından paylaşılan veriler, Galatasaray’ın özellikle maç günü ve ticari gelirlerde Şampiyonlar Ligi play-off'taki rakip Juventus ile kafa kafaya hatta bazı kalemlerde önde olduğunu ortaya çıkardı.
Galatasaray: 156 milyon euro
Juventus: 160 milyon euro
Maç günü gelirleri
Galatasaray: 79 milyon euro
Juventus: 65 milyon euro
Yayın hakkı gelirleri
Galatasaray: 38 milyon euro
Juventus: 177 milyon euro
Tabloya bakıldığında Galatasaray’ın stat doluluğu ve lisanslı ürün satış başarısı Juventus gibi bir dünya markasını geride bıraktı.
Başkan Dursun Özbek, Aslantepe'de Nisan ayında temel atma töreni planlıyor. Mecidiyeköy'deki rezidansın teslimatını Mayıs ayında yapmak istiyor. Galatasaray'ın beklediği Riva'da ikinci bölüm çalışmaları başladı. Satışlar iyi gidiyor. Kemerburgaz'da alt yapı tesisi için çalışmalar devam ediyor.
Galatasaray Başkanı Dursun Özbek, kulübün mali geleceğini tamamen değiştirecek dev projelerde sona gelindiğini müjdeledi. Yakın zamanda müjdesini verdiği 400 milyon dolar müjdesinin ardından Özbek, sarı-kırmızılı camiayı heyecanlandıran yol haritasını paylaştı.
Galatasaray'ın "para sorununu" tarihe gömecek projelerdeki son durum şu şekilde:
Aslantepe Vadisi Projesi: Ruhsat işlemlerinde sona gelindi. Özbek, Nisan ayı itibarıyla büyük bir temel atma töreni planladıklarını duyurdu.
Mecidiyeköy Rezidans: Kulübe ciddi bir nakit akışı sağlayan projede geri sayım başladı. Konutların teslimatının Mayıs ayında yapılacağı açıklandı.
Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Tesisleri: Altyapı ve tesisleşme hamlesinin merkezi olan bölgede çalışmalar tüm hızıyla sürüyor.
Riva Projesi: İkinci bölüm çalışmalarının başladığını belirten Özbek, satışların beklendiği gibi yüksek seyrettiğini ifade etti.
Dursun Özbek, bu projelerin tamamlanmasıyla birlikte Galatasaray'ın ekonomik bağımsızlığını ilan edeceğinin ve sürdürülebilir bir finansal yapıya kavuşacağının altını çizdi.
Dursun Özbek, "stadımızın yenilenmeye ihtiyacı var" dedi... Sami Yen'in kapasitesi 60-65 bin seviyesine çıkarılacak.
İnşaat çalışması olmayacak koltuklar daraltılarak operasyon gerçekleşecek.
Galatasaray Başkanı Dursun Özbek, mevcut stadın artık bir bakıma ve yatırıma ihtiyaç duyduğunu belirterek önemli açıklamalarda bulundu. Özbek, "Stadımızın yenilenmeye ihtiyacı var. İstenmeyen olayların yaşanmaması için ciddi yatırımlar planlıyoruz," diyerek güvenli ve modern bir yapı vurgusu yaptı.
Sarı-kırmızılı yönetimin en dikkat çeken planı kapasite artırımı. Önümüzdeki sezon için hedeflenen 60-65 bin kişilik kapasiteye ulaşmak için ağır inşaat işlerine girilmeyecek. Mevcut tribün yapısı korunarak koltuk aralıkları daraltılacak. Bu yöntem sayesinde stadyum uzun süre kapalı kalmayacak ve maliyetler minimumda tutulacak.
Yatırımların temel amacı sadece kapasite değil, aynı zamanda stadın genel kondisyonunu iyileştirerek taraftar güvenliğini en üst seviyeye çıkarmak.
Başkan Özbek Divan Kurulu toplantısında planı şu şekilde anlattı.
- Stadın elden geçmesi lazım. Gelecekte sorun yaşamamak adına bu çalışmaları titizlikle yürütüyoruz.
Bu hamleyle birlikte Galatasaray, hem iç saha avantajını pekiştirmeyi hem de maç günü gelirlerini ciddi oranda artırmayı hedefliyor.
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Former England and Arsenal legend David Seaman has criticised modern goalkeeping celebrations, singling out Gianluigi Donnarumma for what he feels are exaggerated reactions to routine saves.
Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast with Adebayo Akinfenwa, via Goal, the ex-Arsenal and England goalkeeper said he is not a fan of keepers celebrating every stop, even when the effort does not warrant it.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma saves from Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“The ones that really celebrate shots… Donnarumma, who’s one of my favourites at the moment, was doing some massive celebrations after some half-decent saves,” Seaman said.
“When they do that, I’m like: ‘Come on, you’re better than that.’
“When I see goalkeepers who’ve just signed for a club and they’re giving it all that after a save, and it’s not even a really good one, I think: ‘What are you doing? Celebrate when it really means something.’ That really annoys me.”
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates his team’s second goal scored by teammate Jeremy Doku (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Seaman also discussed the evolution of the position and gave his thoughts on current David Raya, who is playing a key role as Arsenal chase Premier League success.
The former England No.1 suggested that while modern keepers are more involved with the ball at their feet, the fundamentals of the role, positioning, decision-making and composure, remain just as important as ever.
Thomas Frank lost the support of two senior Tottenham players, Cristian Romero and Pedro Porro, which may have played a significant role in his sacking, according to a new report from GiveMeSport.
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The reports suggest that the manager had lost the support of his veteran stars which may have played a role in his dismissal.
Thomas Frank lost the dressing room support
(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
According to the report, Frank’s tenure was marred by a disconnect with the squad’s most influential figures.
Despite handing Cristian Romero the captain’s armband following Son Heung-min’s departure, the Argentine centre-back reportedly harbored serious doubts regarding Frank’s tactical approach.
It adds that the dissatisfaction went beyond just tactics. Several players found Frank’s training sessions to be “stale” and overly “academic,” lacking the intensity required for a team fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone.
Constant Arsenal comparisons had left players annoyed
Beyond tactics and training, a bizarre cultural misstep reportedly alienated the squad further.
Reports suggest that Frank frequently annoyed his players by constantly comparing Tottenham to arch-rivals Arsenal.
The manager allegedly made a habit of praising the Gunners’ quality, with one source stating players just wanted him to “shut up about Arsenal.”
This perceived lack of awareness regarding the fierce North London rivalry led to a feeling that the manager did not truly understand the club’s identity.
Romero could also leave in the summer
Romero himself is reportedly unhappy at the club and could be seeking an exit.
The World Cup winner has previously voiced frustration with the club’s hierarchy and lack of squad depth, calling the situation “disgraceful” in a social media post earlier this season.
With heavy interest reported from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, the next manager faces a massive challenge to convince the Argentine defender that his long-term future remains at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
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New research published in Aggression and Violent Behavior indicates that a history of childhood trauma may not effectively predict which incarcerated youth will engage in the most frequent and violent misconduct. The study suggests that while adverse childhood experiences explain why young people enter the justice system, current factors such as mental health status and gang affiliation are stronger predictors of behavior during incarceration.
Psychologists and criminologists identify childhood adversity as a primary driver of delinquency. Exposure to trauma often hinders emotional regulation and impulse control. This can lead adolescents to interpret social interactions as hostile and resort to aggression. Correctional systems frequently use the Adverse Childhood Experiences score, commonly known as the ACE score, to quantify this history. The traditional ACE score is a cumulative measure of ten specific categories of abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction.
There is a growing consensus that the original ten-item measure may be too narrow for justice-involved youth. It fails to account for systemic issues such as poverty, community violence, and discrimination. Consequently, scholars have proposed expanded measures to capture a broader range of adversities. D
Despite the widespread use of these scores, little research has isolated their ability to predict the behavior of the most serious offenders. Most studies examine general misconduct across all inmates. This study aimed to determine if trauma scores could identify the small fraction of youth responsible for the vast majority of violent and disruptive incidents within state facilities.
“While research has extensively documented that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) increase the risk of juvenile delinquency, we knew much less about whether ACEs predict the most serious forms of institutional misconduct among already-incarcerated youth,” said study author Jessica M. Craig, an associate professor of criminal justice and director of graduate programs at the University of North Texas.
“We were particularly interested in whether an expanded ACEs measure—which includes experiences like witnessing community violence, homelessness, and extreme poverty beyond the traditional 10-item scale—would better predict which youth become chronic and violent misconduct offenders during incarceration. This matters because institutional misconduct can lead to longer confinement, additional legal consequences, and reduced access to rehabilitation programs.”
For their study, the researchers analyzed data from a cohort of 4,613 serious and violent juvenile offenders. The sample included all youth adjudicated and incarcerated in state juvenile correctional facilities in Texas between 2009 and 2013 who had completed an initial intake assessment. The participants were predominantly male. Approximately 46 percent were Hispanic and 34 percent were Black. The average age at the time of incarceration was 16 years old.
The researchers utilized the Positive Achievement Change Tool to derive two distinct trauma scores for each individual. The first was the traditional ACE score. This metric summed exposure to ten indicators: physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; physical and emotional neglect; household substance abuse; mental illness in the home; parental separation or divorce; domestic violence against a mother; and the incarceration of a household member.
The second measure was an expanded ACE score. This metric included the original ten items plus four additional variables relevant to high-risk populations. These additions included a history of foster care or shelter placements, witnessing violence in the community, experiencing homelessness, and living in a family with income below the poverty level. The average youth in the sample had a traditional ACE score of roughly 3.3 and an expanded score of nearly 4.9.
The study did not treat misconduct as a simple average. The researchers sought to identify chronic perpetrators. They calculated the rate of total misconduct incidents and violent misconduct incidents for each youth. They then separated the offenders into groups representing the top 10 percent and the top 1 percent of misconduct perpetrators. This allowed the analysis to focus specifically on the individuals who pose the greatest challenge to institutional safety.
The researchers used statistical models to test whether higher trauma scores increased the likelihood of being in these high-rate groups. These models controlled for other potential influences, including prior criminal history, offense type, age, race, and substance abuse history.
The analysis yielded results that challenged the assumption that past trauma dictates future institutional violence. Neither the traditional ACE score nor the expanded ACE score served as a significant predictor for membership in the top 10 percent or top 1 percent of misconduct perpetrators. This finding held true for both general rule-breaking and specific acts of violence. The addition of variables like poverty and community violence to the trauma score did not improve its predictive power regarding institutional behavior.
“We were surprised that even the expanded ACEs measure—which included witnessing violence, foster care placement, homelessness, and poverty—failed to predict high-rate misconduct,” Craig told PsyPost. “Given that previous research suggested the traditional 10-item ACEs scale might underestimate adversity among justice-involved youth, we expected the expanded measure to show stronger predictive power.”
While trauma history did not predict chronic misconduct, other personal and situational characteristics proved to be strong indicators. The most consistent predictor of violent behavior was a history of serious mental health problems. Youth with such histories had approximately 150 percent increased odds of falling into the top 1 percent of violent misconduct perpetrators compared to their peers. This effect size suggests that current psychological stability is a primary determinant of safety within the facility.
Age and social connections also played significant roles. The data indicated that older youth were substantially less likely to engage in chronic misconduct. Specifically, those who were older at the time of incarceration were about 50 to 60 percent less likely to be in the high-rate misconduct groups. Gang affiliation was another robust predictor. Youth with gang ties were significantly more likely to be among the most frequent violators of institutional rules. This points to the influence of peer dynamics and the prison social structure on individual behavior.
“These are substantively meaningful effects that have real implications for correctional programming and supervision strategies,” Craig said.
The study provides evidence that the factors driving entry into the justice system may differ from the factors driving behavior once inside. While childhood adversity sets a trajectory toward delinquency, the structured environment of a correctional facility introduces new variables. The researchers suggest that the “survival coping” mechanisms youth develop in response to trauma might manifest differently depending on their immediate environment and mental state.
“Contrary to expectations, we found that neither traditional nor expanded ACEs measures significantly predicted which youth became the most frequent perpetrators of institutional misconduct,” Craig explained. “Instead, factors like age at incarceration, gang affiliation, and mental health history were much stronger predictors.”
“This suggests that while childhood trauma remains critically important for understanding how youth enter the justice system, managing their behavior during incarceration may require greater focus on their current mental health needs, developmental stage, and institutional factors rather than trauma history alone.”
These findings imply that correctional administrators should look beyond a cumulative trauma score when assessing risk. Screening processes that emphasize current mental health conditions and gang involvement may offer more utility for preventing violence than those focusing solely on historical adversity. Effective management of high-risk populations appears to require targeted mental health interventions and strategies to disrupt gang activity.
There are some limitations to consider. The data came from a single state, which may limit the ability to generalize the findings to other jurisdictions with different correctional cultures or demographics.
The study also relied on cumulative scores that count the presence of adverse events but do not measure their severity, frequency, or timing. It is possible that specific types of trauma, such as physical abuse, have different impacts than others, such as parental divorce. A simple sum of these events might obscure specific patterns that do predict violence.
“It’s important to emphasize that our findings don’t diminish the significance of childhood trauma in understanding juvenile justice involvement overall,” Craig said. “ACEs remain crucial for understanding pathways into the system and should absolutely be addressed through trauma-informed programming. However, when it comes to predicting institutional violence specifically among already deeply-entrenched offenders, personal characteristics and current mental health status appear more salient than historical trauma exposure.”
“Future research should examine whether specific patterns or combinations of traumatic experiences—rather than cumulative scores—might better predict institutional violence. We’d also like to investigate whether trauma-informed treatment programs, when youth actually receive them during incarceration, can reduce misconduct even when trauma history alone doesn’t predict it. Additionally, examining the timing and severity of ACEs, rather than just their presence or absence, could clarify the trauma-violence relationship.”
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Technical charts show Bitcoin and altcoins consolidating as part of establishing a new price floor after last week’s sharp sell-off. As a range is determined, will bulls or bears establish dominance?
Bitcoin price crumbled back toward its 2026 low as a lack of fresh capital inflows, weak investor sentiment, and rising selling in spot markets chipped away at the $66,000 level.
BlackRock is bringing its $2.1 billion tokenized Treasury fund to Uniswap, expanding institutional access to DeFi and deepening Wall Street’s push into onchain finance.
The pilot programs explore wholesale settlement between institutions and real-world use cases, along with stablecoin development and tokenized bank deposits.
Bitcoin price could still reach $150,000 by year-end, but several things must happen for BTC price to find its technical footing and spark a new bull run.
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Real Madrid are looking to sign a centre-back next summer, that much has been known for a while. They’ve long been credited with interest in Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate, whose contract expires at the end of the season, as well as Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano, who is reportedly close to renewing his deal with the Bundesliga […]
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Before heading to the Seattle Seahawks’ championship ceremony and parade on Wednesday morning, outspoken linebacker Ernest Jones IV joined “Up & Adams” and had a message for all the doubters.
Here's what 2x Super Bowl Champ Ernest Jones and a bunch of guys are wearing to the parade in Seattle today.
Host Kay Adams noticed Jones' shirt during the interview and asked what he was wearing when he tilted his camera to give a full frontal view of Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold flipping the bird. Jones and a couple of other Seahawks wore the shirts to the ceremony with Darnold's blessing as F-U to all those who doubted the QB and the Seahawks all season.
Jones doubled down on his message on stage during the ceremony.
Ernest Jones is a LEGEND 🤣
“If you got anything to say about my QB, if you got anything to say about my defense, if you got anything to say about our O-line, and you got anything to say about the city of Seattle... I got two words for you... F*ck you!" pic.twitter.com/lJJmBO2sRT
“If you got anything to say about my QB, if you got anything to say about my defense, if you got anything to say about our O-line, and you got anything to say about the city of Seattle... I got two words for you... F**k you!"
Jones and the Seahawks feel like the only people who've believed in Darnold to this point. Even after leading the Minnesota Vikings to 14 wins in 2024, they opted to let Darnold enter free agency, and then that's when the Seahawks swooped in to sign him, and the rest is history. Not only was Darnold an underdog, but this Seahawks team was an underdog all season.
Seattle capped off a 10-game winning streak to end the season on Sunday, defeating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX, 29-13. Even as Seattle was in the midst of finishing the regular season on a seven-game winning streak, capturing the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage in the NFL playoffs, the Seahawks remained overlooked by many.
It wasn't until the Seattle beat San Francisco with a dominant defensive performance in Week 18 to lock up home field advantage that they began to open the eyes of pundits and fans on the national scene. For Darnold, this Super Bowl is vindication, a middle finger in the face of everyone who'd written his NFL career off as a bust.
England legend slams Donnarumma: ‘Over celebrates for routine saves’
Former England and Arsenal legend David Seaman has criticised modern goalkeeping celebrations, singling out Gianluigi Donnarumma for what he feels are exaggerated reactions to routine saves.
Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast with Adebayo Akinfenwa, via Goal, the ex-Arsenal and England goalkeeper said he is not a fan of keepers celebrating every stop, even when the effort does not warrant it.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma saves from Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“The ones that really celebrate shots… Donnarumma, who’s one of my favourites at the moment, was doing some massive celebrations after some half-decent saves,” Seaman said.
“When they do that, I’m like: ‘Come on, you’re better than that.’
“When I see goalkeepers who’ve just signed for a club and they’re giving it all that after a save, and it’s not even a really good one, I think: ‘What are you doing? Celebrate when it really means something.’ That really annoys me.”
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates his team’s second goal scored by teammate Jeremy Doku (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Seaman also discussed the evolution of the position and gave his thoughts on current David Raya, who is playing a key role as Arsenal chase Premier League success.
The former England No.1 suggested that while modern keepers are more involved with the ball at their feet, the fundamentals of the role, positioning, decision-making and composure, remain just as important as ever.
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 04: Tyler Warren #84 of the Indianapolis Colts carries the ball against the Houston Texans during an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on January 4, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Indianapolis won eight of its first 10 games, becoming one of the biggest stories in the league. But after the Week 11 bye, the Colts didn’t record another victory, crashing out of the playoffs and into a second straight 8-9 finish. Tyler Warren’s debut season reflected the Colts’ campaign as a whole. Through Week 10, the rookie led all NFL tight ends in receiving yards, becoming one of the leading candidates for Offensive Rookie of the Year. But after the Week 11 bye, Warren’s production fell off a cliff, ultimately precluding him from even being an OROY finalist. The decline is stark:
Warren’s rookie season Weeks 1-10 Weeks 12-18 Receptions 50 26 Receiving yards 617 200 Yards per reception 12.3 7.7 Yards after catch 373 101 Receiving TDs 3 1
Now, there’s important context here. Daniel Jones first popped up in the injury report in Week 12 — with NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport later reporting that the quarterback was playing through a fractured fibula — and then tore his Achilles in Week 14. Obviously, just like the rest of the Colts, Warren suffered without his QB1.
Having selected Warren with the 14th overall pick, Warren was as great as advertised, immediately making an impact. He brought sure hands, versatility, and overall physicality. The rookie caught 76 receptions for 817 total receiving yards and 4 touchdown receptions, as well as ran for another one on the ground along the goal line.
Unfortunately, season-ending injuries limited the Colts 2025 rookie class to some extent, as both cornerback Justin Walley and safety Hunter Wohler suffered season-ending injuries during training camp and preseason respectively.
That being said, there were some bright spots eeven outside of Warren, including promising rookie right tackle Jalen Travis, who made 4 starts in relief of veteran Braden Smith down the stretch, as well as first-year quarterback Riley Leonard who showed promise receiving his first career start in the Colts regular season finale against the Houston Texans vaunted defense.
It’s not really fair to put a final grade on a rookie class after just one season, but it’s also fair to point out that there’s room for improvement with this group.
In particular, the Colts will need to get more production from their 2nd round pick JT Tuimoloau, who was limited to 13 games and 0 sacks, as well as Walley, from Round 3, who of course suffered the devastating injury after such an impressive training camp performance. Hopefully, their best is still yet to come collectively!
Veteran catcher Gary Sánchez has agreed to terms on a $1.75 million, one-year contract with the Milwaukee Brewers, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn’t been announced. The New York Post first reported the deal.
Sánchez, 33, played for the Brewers in 2024 and batted .220 with a .307 on-base percentage, 11 homers and 37 RBIs in 89 games while backing up two-time All-Star catcher William Contreras and getting some playing time at designated hitter.
Sánchez, himself a two-time All-Star, spent last year with the Baltimore Orioles and hit .231 with a .297 on-base percentage, five homers and 24 RBIs in 29 games.
Sánchez has batted .224 with a .309 on-base percentage, 189 homers and 509 RBIs in 859 career regular-season games with the New York Yankees (2015-21), Minnesota Twins (2022), New York Mets (2023), San Diego Padres (2023), Brewers and Orioles.
He was second to Detroit's Michael Fulmer in the AL rookie of the year voting in 2016. Sánchez made AL All-Star teams with the Yankees in 2017 and '19.
Before this move, the only catchers on Milwaukee’s 40-man roster were Contreras and 23-year-old prospect Jeferson Quero, who hasn’t appeared in a major league game.
The Brewers also signed catcher Reese McGuire last month to a minor league contract with an invitation to major league camp. McGuire, who turns 31 on March 2, batted .226 with a .245 on-base percentage, nine homers and 24 RBIs in 44 games with the Chicago Cubs last season.
The status of one of Vanderbilt baseball's top relief pitchers is uncertain for opening weekend with the Commodores set to compete in the Shriner's Children's College Classic in Arlington, Texas.
When asked Feb. 11 whether left-hander Miller Green would be available for the tournament, Corbin said, "Don't know yet."
Green has been dealing with an undisclosed injury that led the Commodores to slow down his ramp-up. Two sources with knowledge of Vanderbilt's pitching plans for its scrimmages held Feb. 6-8 told The Tennessean that Green did not appear on the list of pitchers scheduled to appear. The sources were granted anonymity because the information had not been made public.
However, the issue is not expected to sideline Green long-term.
"We slowed him down at the beginning of the week, so we'll see how he unfolds the next couple of days, in terms of throwing," Corbin said. "So I think with not just Miller, but any of these guys, if there's any setback at all, then we're more precautionary than anything else. ... He'll be back."
Green, a Lipscomb Academy graduate, is one of just four left-handed pitchers on the 2026 roster. One of the other three, freshman Aiden Stillman, missed the fall and got off to a late start to his ramp-up due to an undisclosed injury. Green had a 3.80 ERA with five saves in 20 appearances a season ago. He started the 2025 season in the closer's role, but struggled midseason and lost the gig.
Matthew Stafford will be back as the Los Angeles Rams’ quarterback in 2026, announcing his return during his MVP acceptance speech last week. That much we know.
What isn’t so clear is whether Stafford will play on his current contract.
The Rams tweaked his deal last offseason after allowing Stafford to explore the market with other teams. Despite getting offered $20 million more by the Raiders and Giants, who were willing to pay him $100 million for two years, Stafford returned to the Rams for $40 million per year.
Next season will be the last year of his contract and it’s reasonable to think he’ll be seeking another raise. After all, he did win MVP and lead the Rams to the NFC title game. Looking at the current landscape of quarterback contracts puts into perspective what a bargain Stafford is.
There are 10 quarterbacks set to earn more than Stafford’s $40 million in 2026. These are the cash earned figures next season, not average annual salaries (via Over The Cap).
Patrick Mahomes: $56.8 million
Tua Tagovailoa: $55.0 million
Josh Allen: $55.0 million
Jared Goff: $55.0 million
Lamar Jackson: $52.0 million
Jalen Hurts: $51.5 million
Jordan Love: $51.0 million
Brock Purdy: $47.0 million
Deshaun Watson: $46.0 million
Kyler Murray: $42.5 million
Baker Mayfield: $40.0 million
Dak Prescott: $40.0 million
Matthew Stafford: $40.0 million
Tagovailoa and Murray are both likely to be cut or traded this offseason. And Watson is, well, in his own category of bad quarterback contracts.
Still, it's easy to make the case that Stafford should be in the $50 million range instead of $40 million. That's what he was offered by the Giants and Raiders last year, so teams would be willing to pay him at least that much.
It's just a matter of whether Stafford wants to push for more money entering his 18th NFL season. He's already the highest-earning player in league history at more than $408 million. Maybe he's content with the money he's made and won't ask for a raise.
One thing's for sure: He deserves a bump in pay. He was the best quarterback in the NFL last season and $40 million is a steal for the Rams.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 3: Nakobe Dean #17 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with Reed Blankenship #32 against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lincoln Financial Field on November 3, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The week leading up to the Super Bowl is filled with more media opportunities than players know what to do with, which means more than a few opportunities for upcoming Eagles’ free agents to make a pitch to stay in Philly — or not. Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship were both asked about returning to Philadelphia next season, and their responses were very different — Dean felt like Zack Baun last season, and Blankenship gave Milton Williams vibes, when the now-New England Patriots defensive tackle wore a hoodie with his agent’s logo on locker clean out day.
Nakobe Dean
One man who without question wants to be back in Philadelphia is linebacker Nakobe Dean. He has said it to nearly anyone who would listen — he acknowledged that the NFL is a business, so he understands if it doesn’t work out, but returning to the Eagles is his preference. The LB has played with a handful of his teammates since college, and moving on would be a big adjustment.
Dean’s injury history could work to his benefit in this regard, but he’s someone who might not be as valued outside the building. The people within the Eagles organization know how important he is as a leader and what he can do for the linebacker group, and defense as a whole, even when he’s not on the field. And when he is on the field, he’s intelligent and instantly impactful.
From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: #Eagles LB Nakobe Dean joined the show to discuss his pending free agency, the atmosphere around the Philly, and Jalen Hurts' winnability. pic.twitter.com/E3JDXnjxK5
The safety talked about he and his wife moving out of Philadelphia and back to Tennessee — the couple previously announced they have a baby on the way — which is an interesting move if he expected to be back with the Eagles. DeJean tried to goad Blankenship into talking about wanting to be back in Philly, but the safety did little to offer any assurances, saying only: “We’ll see.”
There’s still several weeks before Dean, Blankenship, and the other Eagles free agents officially hit the market, so Howie Roseman has time to figure out how best to fill the roster, and how to allocate the salary cap among a young defense that will be very expensive over the next couple of seasons.
Which defensive upcoming free agents should the Eagles prioritize re-signing before they hit the market? Let us know in the comments!
Since the end of last season, the Red Sox lost Justin Wilson (48.1 innings) and Steven Matz (21.2 innings) while trading Brennan Bernardino (51.2 innings) and Chris Murphy (34.2 innings) from their left-handed relief mix. Aroldis Chapman is back, but as the closer, won’t be in the mix to be a specialist who can face pockets of left-handed hitters in key spots. While losing Matz, Bernardino, Murphy and Wilson (who remains a free agent as camps open), the Red Sox have done little to replenish that specific area of the roster. Of those on the 40-man roster, only Jovani Morán and newcomer Tyler Samaniego (acquired as part of the Johan Oviedo-Jhostynxon Garcia trade with Pittsburgh in December) profile as traditional left-handed bullpen options.
Despite the lack of certainty — Morán has pitched just four major league innings over the last two years due to injury and Samaniego has never pitched above Double-A — the Red Sox don’t seem to be prioritizing adding a bona fide left-hander to their roster as camp opens. While the club is open to free agent adds, Boston is (as of Tuesday) not expected to pursue Dodgers lefty Anthony Banda, who was recently designated for assignment, unless he clears waivers, according to a source. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow appears more comfortable with internal options than one might assume.
“We continue to explore opportunities. We also feel good about the group we have,” he said Wednesday. “Morán has been someone that has been highlighted, someone we really like coming off a really successful winter ball season in Puerto Rico. We brought in Tyler Samaniego and are excited to get a look at him. There’s also starting pitching depth and we’ll figure out over the course of the next month and a half or so who, if anyone, might contribute out of the ‘pen from that group.”
There are options, too, if the Red Sox decide to turn toward free agency. Danny Coulombe is an obvious fit who the club has been in touch with throughout the winter but would likely require a major league deal. Wilson remains unsigned but is rumored to be considering retirement. Former Oriole Cionel Pérez is of interest to the Sox, too, according to a source, and is unsigned. Veterans Andrew Chafin, Jalen Beeks, Joey Lucchesi, John King, Colin Poche, T.J. McFarland and Joe Mantiply are out there, too.
As Breslow noted, the Red Sox, at full strength, have too many starters for rotation spots and therefore might have to get creative with how they use starters earlier in the year. With Garrett Crochet, Ranger Suárez, Sonny Gray, Brayan Bello and Johan Oviedo seemingly locked into spots, the quartet of Kutter Crawford, Patrick Sandoval, Connelly Early and Payton Tolle projects to be on the outside looking in. Early and Tolle will not be relief options in March or April and therefore seem likely to start in the Worcester rotation. The right-handed Crawford and the left-handed Sandoval could emerge as long relievers, depending on how things shake out.
“I think they’re both capable of being effective bullpen guys because they’ve been very effective major league starters. It’s premature to label either as such,” Breslow said, speaking about Crawford and Sandoval. “If I’ve learned anything in a short amount of time, it’s that talking about what your rotation might look like before anyone has thrown a spring training game pitch, that would be foolish.
“Most importantly, both Kutter and Patrick are making a ton of progress. Off the mound regularly, facing hitters soon, and we’ll evaluate. It’s been a while since they’ve been in games and we need to make sure we’ll bring them along in a way that makes sense.”
At times last season, the Red Sox had nearly half their bullpen consisting of left-handed options in order to provide balance and give opponents a different look late in games. This year, though, it remains possible that Cora will opt to carry just one southpaw in addition to Chapman. Having bona fide lefty starters like Crochet, Suárez and potentially Sandoval, Early and Tolle lessens the need to have short-burst left-handers available.
“Having the two lefties in the rotation changes, probably, the way we’ll build a roster. Do we need three lefties? I don’t know.
“We are in the business of getting people out and we need lefties to get righties out and righties to get lefties out.”
The PGA Tour continued its strong run of television ratings with another big week at the People's Open.
CBS reported the 2026 WM Phoenix Open drew its highest final-round viewership in seven years, up 32 percent from a year ago, with a peak of nearly 5 million viewers. The broadcast ran right up to the start of the Super Bowl, with Chris Gotterup defeating Hideki Matsuyama in a playoff to secure his second win of the season.
It wasn't just the weekend that drew eyes, either. Golf Channel saw a 9 percent increase in average viewership for the first two rounds, including its highest round one number for the WM Phoenix Open since 2013, with 819,000 tuning in to the second round, according to Josh Carpenter with Sports Business Journal.
These numbers are just the latest in a remarkable run for the Tour's viewership. Last week, Golf Channel boasted a 75 percent year-over-year increase in ratings for every round of the Farmers Insurance Open. The week before that, The American Express saw a 125 percent increase in total viewership compared to the previous year. And last fall, CBS said the 2025 season was its most-watched golf season since 2018.
Meanwhile, LIV Golf's season opener in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, drew just 23,000 viewers on average over the four-day event, which Elvis Smylie won while holding off Jon Rahm in the closing stages in the second round.
The PGA Tour now goes back to California for the penultimate event of its west coast swing, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am — the first signature event of the 2026 season — while LIV Golf heads to Adelaide, Australia.
The PGA Tour continued its strong run of television ratings with another big week at the People's Open.
CBS reported the 2026 WM Phoenix Open drew its highest final-round viewership in seven years, up 32 percent from a year ago, with a peak of nearly 5 million viewers. The broadcast ran right up to the start of the Super Bowl, with Chris Gotterup defeating Hideki Matsuyama in a playoff to secure his second win of the season.
It wasn't just the weekend that drew eyes, either. Golf Channel saw a 9 percent increase in average viewership for the first two rounds, including its highest round one number for the WM Phoenix Open since 2013, with 819,000 tuning in to the second round, according to Josh Carpenter with Sports Business Journal.
These numbers are just the latest in a remarkable run for the Tour's viewership. Last week, Golf Channel boasted a 75 percent year-over-year increase in ratings for every round of the Farmers Insurance Open. The week before that, The American Express saw a 125 percent increase in total viewership compared to the previous year. And last fall, CBS said the 2025 season was its most-watched golf season since 2018.
Meanwhile, LIV Golf's season opener in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, drew just 23,000 viewers on average over the four-day event, which Elvis Smylie won while holding off Jon Rahm in the closing stages in the second round.
The PGA Tour now goes back to California for the penultimate event of its west coast swing, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am — the first signature event of the 2026 season — while LIV Golf heads to Adelaide, Australia.
Feb. 11—Fairmont High School inducted three athletes, a coach and a longtime volunteer into its athletic hall of fame last weekend.
Here's a quick glance at the inductees:
Jim Siewe: He helped found the Fairmont Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998 and has served as chairperson for 26 inductions, including 155 athletes and other inductees. A 1965 graduate of Chaminade High School, Siewe was a head football coach at Alter and Wayne early in his career.
Sarah Vonderbrink: A 2009 Fairmont graduate, she earned four varsity letters in track and field and soccer and one in swimming and diving. She qualified for the state track meet in three events as a senior. She was an All-Ohio selection in soccer and played at Bowling Green from 2009-13.
Mark McCormick: A 1981 Fairmont East graduate, he earned two varsity letters in football, three in track and field and three in basketball. He scored 1,064 in basketball and played at Wright State, where was a key contributor on the 1983 NCAA Division II national championship team.
Abby Galbreath: A 2010 Fairmont graduate, she earned four letters in swimming and won a state championship in the 200 individual medley as a senior. In college, she swam at South Carolina.
Tim Voegeli: He began his coaching career at Fairmont East in 1974 in boys soccer. He later coached boys and girls tennis. He retired from coaching in 2018 after 44 years.
The Good: The Braulio Vazquez appreciation society
Osasuna’s Sporting Director Braulio Vazquez is not a name that has been heralded much in international media, but if he were laid back enough to watch football in such a fashion, he might have allowed a wry smile at Raul Garcia de Haro’s back-post winner against Celta Vigo. After the Jagoba Arrasate years, the second-most of successful run in the 21st century in Pamplona, Vicente Moreno was brought in to replace him. Osasuna were in the European race until the final day of the season, but Moreno and Los Rojillo parted ways all the same. Something hadn’t quite fit, there were two willing parties, but an undeniable lack of chemistry.
It’s hard to give call Braulio a visionary for the appointment of Alessio Lisci, who authored a Netflix miracle at Mirandes, but what he has done since does deserve credit. In the first half of the season, Osasuna struggled for consistency, and after some bad breaks, went on a run of eight matchdays where they slid from midtable to 18th, featuring a singular Liga win in 10 games. Just as consistent as gravity, pressure on Lisci began to build.
At that point, Braulio not only backed Lisci, but found a much more effective pressure valve, telling the press that he had left him short of resources. His business was as worthy of critique as Lisci’s management – and it would be addressed. In January, Braulio brought in Raul Moro for €5m from Ajax, and Javi Galan for €500k from Atletico Madrid. Against Celta, both started, as did summer additions Victor Munoz (€5m), one of the revelations of the season, and Valentin Rosier (free), making it four of Braulio’s five additions this year on the pitch.
Moro swirled a ball onto perhaps the most reliable head in La Liga, Ante Budimir, and it flew into top corner in the pouring rain in Vigo. With 10 minutes to go, Munoz found Alejandro Catena in the box and there was Garcia to prod home, right on time. A victory away at Balaidos, against one of the form teams in Spain, lifted Osasuna to 9th, four points behind Celta, and a potential European spot. Their third victory in four, extending a run of just one defeat in seven. Run the numbers, any which you like, they’re all coming up Braulio right now.
Image via CA Osasuna
The Bad: 17 days to wipe the smile off Manolo Gonzalez’s face
Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez and Sporting Director Fran Garagarza have done a fine job, and nothing can take away their first half of their season, but their start to 2026 is a good attempt at making people forget about it. Los Pericos were very much in the game against Villarreal, and arguably the more dangerous side with 10 minutes to go in the first half (0-0) on Monday night. With ten minutes gone in the second, they were 4-0 down.
Ahead of Espanyol’s 4th game of 2026 and as of the 23rd of January, Gonzalez was still in festive as his side prepared to take on Valencia. Asked about mounting pressure following a loss to Barcelona (0-2), a draw with Levante (1-1) and a loss to Girona (0-1), Gonzalez replied with a grin. “I told the players to win, otherwise I’ll be sacked. Please win. I think I might be out if we don’t win in Valencia. If not, I’m finished.”
“We’ve been soft in every aspect of our game, we’ve been talking about it for days. Every time they went for a 50/50 ball, they went all out, and we have to recover that urgently. Otherwise, we’ll have real problems; it’s very difficult to win matches. Either we reset quickly again or it won’t be enough.”
Gonzalez’s first answer was a fair response, the response of a manager who was in charge of a more limited team with much larger problems at the same time last year. Yet their point against Levante (19th) remains their only reward after six games in 2026. The sense of humour is gone, the problems are real.
The Beautiful: A Bad Bunny tribute
It’s a good week to have a Bad Bunny song dedicated to you, but Orri Oskarsson has been the lucky recipient of such an honour at Anoeta. Following his winner against Alaves in the Copa del Rey, Real Sociedad fans have repurposed ‘Cafe con Ron’ [Coffee with rum] to the lyrics In the morning coffee, in the afternoon rum, take me to Sevilla, Orri Oskarsson’ which rhymes wonderfully in Spanish.
The less said about his back-post blaze over the bar the better, but Real Sociedad fans were given an excuse to employ their vocal chords to the rhythm of Puerto Rico’s finest for a second week in a row. Gliding clear of the defence with seconds remaining in Pellegrino Matarazzo’s 6th win in eight games, Oskarsson’s finish was smooth and confident, movements out of an instruction manual. Just as he did against Alaves.
Oskarsson, who signed for €20m, has had a miserable time since arriving in Donostia-San Sebastian, struggling to settle, to score, to start, to look the part. For the first time in a while, he’s smiling again. The song is a sign the Txuri-Urdin are willing to make him one of their own. There is hope yet that he can be resurrected from Real Sociedad’s number nine graveyard.
Tottenham Hotspur Offered A Chance To Sign This Real Madrid Defender: Good Signing For Spurs?
In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey revealed that Tottenham Hotspur have been offered a chance to sign Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger. It has been stated that Spurs will have to compete with Crystal Palace and West Ham United in the race to land the German talent next summer.
Rudiger’s Impressive Form In German Football
Rudiger has missed a lot of games this season due to injury, but has done well to serve as a good, rotational piece in Real Madrid’s squad. The Germany international has made just nine appearances for Los Blancos so far in this campaign across multiple competitions.
The 32-year-old can still be a decent contributor on the defensive end of the field when he is playing regularly and with confidence on the field. He has got a wealth of experience at the highest level, so Spurs would do well to bring him on board this summer.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out at the end of this campaign, which could open the door for Tottenham to sign him on a free transfer later this year.
VITORIA-GASTEIZ, SPAIN – DECEMBER 14: Antonio Rudiger of Real Madrid looks on during the warm up prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Deportivo Alaves and Real Madrid CF at Estadio de Mendizorroza on December 14, 2025 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Is Rudiger A Good Signing For Tottenham Hotspur?
Rudiger is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and excels at playing his way out from the back.
Standing at 1.90m, the German sensation can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. He is already quite familiar with the Premier League from his spell at Chelsea and won’t take much time to settle into life at Tottenham.
We can expect Rudiger to bring more bite and steel to the North London club’s defence. He is more than capable of earning a regular first-team place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the coming years.
At 32, Rudiger is past his prime but could still serve as an important squad player at a club like Tottenham. He has got the skill set and leadership qualities to be a success story at the London club in the short term. Furthermore, Rudiger will be available on a free transfer this summer, which makes him a decent signing for Spurs to pull off financially at the end of this season.
England confirm two more friendlies before start of World Cup
England will take on Costa Rica and New Zealand in friendlies ahead of the start of the 2026 World Cup.
Thomas Tuchel’s side will take on New Zealand on Saturday 6 June before facing Costa Rica on Wednesday 10 June in the USA, with the venues yet to be confirmed.
The FA have also confirmed that England’s training camp will be based at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri for the duration of the tournament.
Before that, England will take on Uruguay and Japan next month at Wembley as their preparations for the tournament continue.
"I know what I know and I am following my gut and my values," Wambach said in a post on Instagram. "I will not participate in any business arrangement under (Wasserman's) leadership."
Wambach, who retired in 2015, is not represented by Wasserman himself, and encouraged her agent to leave the 51-year-old's firm.
"I also need to say this: I'm grateful to my agent, who I've known for almost 20 years and trust.
"Casey should resign. He should leave, so more people like me don't have to."
Wambach, 45, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a World Cup champion and six-time winner of the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award. She is the USWNT's all-time leading scorer with 184 goals in 255 appearances.
“I hold my teams to the highest standards and have a duty to protect them as well," the musician said on Instagram. "No artist, agent or employee should ever be expected to defend or overlook actions that conflict so deeply with our own moral values.”
In emails released by the U.S. Department of Justice last month, a flirtatious correspondence between Wasserman and Epstein's longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell from 2003 was revealed. At the time, Wasserman was married with a young family.
Maxwell was convicted on sex trafficking charges in 2021 and is serving a 20-year prison sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls.
Wasserman also traveled with Epstein on his private jet during a 2002 trip to Africa on a humanitarian mission.
In a statement after the emails became public, Wasserman said: “I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell which took place over two decades ago, long before her horrific crimes came to light.
"I never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. As is well documented, I went on a humanitarian trip as part of a delegation with the Clinton Foundation in 2002 on the Epstein plane. I am terribly sorry for having any association with either of them."
Casey Wasserman to remain on LA Olympics committee despite Jeffrey Epstein links
Wasserman also serves as chairman for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Organizing Committee, which met on Wednesday, Feb. 11 to determine whether he would stay on. After an investigation, the committee said that Wasserman would remain in his position.
"We found Mr. Wasserman's relationship with Epstein and Maxwell did not go beyond what has already been publicly documented," the committee said in a statement.
"Twenty-three years ago, before Mr. Wasserman or the public knew of Epstein and Maxwell’s deplorable crimes, Mr. Wasserman and his then-wife flew on a humanitarian mission to Africa on Epstein’s plane at the invitation of the Clinton Foundation. This was his single interaction with Epstein. Shortly after, he traded the publicly known emails with Maxwell.
"The Executive Committee of the Board has determined that based on these facts, as well as the strong leadership he has exhibited over the past ten years, Mr. Wasserman should continue to lead LA28 and deliver a safe and successful Games."
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 03: Gary Sánchez #99 of the Milwaukee Brewers hits a double in the second inning against the New York Mets during Game Three of the Wild Card Series at American Family Field on October 03, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Milwaukee Brewers entered the offseason with a potential need at backup catcher. Danny Jansen was hitting free agency and was unlikely to return, ultimately signing with the Texas Rangers. That left just William Contreras and prospect Jeferson Quero as the only catchers on the 40 man roster.
While Quero is still viewed by many as the Brewers’ catcher of the future, it still seemed they needed additional catching depth to get through the season. Now, as pitchers and catchers officially report to spring training, the Brewers have finally made that addition at catcher.
Jon Heyman has reported that the Brewers have brought back 33 year old Gary Sanchez on a one year, $1.75MM deal.
Gary Sanchez returns to Brewers
The Brewers first signed Gary Sanchez for the 2024 season on a one year deal. He also saw time at DH and first base. That season he hit .220 with 11 homers and a .699 OPS in 89 games. During the final two months of the season, he was part of a three man weave at catcher and DH with Contreras and Eric Haase to help manage the loss of Christian Yelich to a back injury.
Last season the Brewers let Sanchez walk to roll with Eric Haase as the backup catcher. Sanchez signed with the Baltimore Orioles where he posted a .231 average with five homers and a .715 OPS in 29 games. Sanchez dealt with wrist, finger, and knee injuries last season that limited his time on the field.
Sanchez is now the favorite to be the backup catcher to William Contreras in 2026. Jeferson Quero is now likely to start the season back in Triple-A Nashville for some more seasoning and regular playing time. Contreras doesn’t come out of the lineup often so this may end up being better for Quero in the long run.
One big benefit to this signing is that Sanchez does have some familiarity with the Brewers pitching staff. Granted there has been a decent amount of new additions to this staff since Sanchez was here last, but still he knows the coaching staff and should be able to pick things up quickly.
Sanchez brings a veteran presence to the catching room and is comfortable in that backup role. The Brewers also have Reese McGuire on a minor league deal with an invite to spring training to have additional depth at that spot.
Italy's Emanuel Rieder (L) and Simon Kainzwaldner celebrate their victory after the men's doubles second round competition of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games at the Cortina Sliding Center. Robert Michael/dpa
Italians Emanuel Rieder and Simon Kainzwaldner caused a surprise when they seized Olympic gold in the men's luge doubles on Wednesday, ending Germany's three Games-long hold on glory.
Italy also won the inaugural women's doubles earlier, bringing the host nation's tally to four golds across all sports so far in Milan/Cortina.
Six-times Olympic champions Tobias Wendl and Tobias Arlt could only finish with bronze in a tightly packed men's field. The German pair boasted three straight doubles golds and three successive team relay golds at Winter Games.
Austrian duo Thomas Steu and Wolfgang Kindl secured silver, 0.068 seconds adrift of the Italians. Steu had scooped bronze four years' ago in Beijing.
US duo Marcus Mueller and Ansel Haugsjaa took a shock lead after a track record in the first run but errors second time around left them sixth.
Italian duo Andrea Vötter and Marion Oberhofer earlier zoomed to victory in the inaugural Olympic luge women's doubles.
While women could theoretically have competed in doubles at previous Winter Games given it was an open category, no female luger did.
A women's doubles was introduced to this year's Olympics to achieve equality, having already existed in world championships and World Cups. Eleven sleds all from different nations took part, with none of the women from Tuesday's individual final won by Germany's Julia Taubitz competing.
The Italians led after the first run thanks to a start record and ended up with a combined 1 minute 46.284 seconds after the second and final run.
German pair Dajana Eitberger and Magdalena Matschina took silver, 0.120 back, and Austrian world champions Selina Egle and Lara Michaela Kipp placed third.
The sliding centre in Cortina was built quickly by Italian organizers after the International Olympic Committee had wanted to hold sliding events at these Games abroad for cost reasons.
Given the controversy, the track is holding up well and producing fast but so far safe races.
Italy's Andrea Voetter (L) and Marion Oberhofer celebrate their first place after the women's doubles second round competition of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games at the Cortina Sliding Center. Robert Michael/dpa
Detroit's Isaiah Stewart was suspended for seven games by the NBA for his role in a brawl between the Pistons and Charlotte (Nick Cammett)
Detroit Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart was suspended seven games by the NBA and three others involved in a brawl between Detroit and Charlotte were also banned by the league on Wednesday.
Stewart's punishment came for leaving the bench area, aggressively entering an on-court altercation and fighting, with the length of the suspension in part based on his history of repeated unsportsmanlike acts.
Charlotte Hornets forwards Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were each suspended four games for fighting and escalating the altercation while Detroit center Jalen Duren was banned two games for initiating the altercation and fighting.
All four players were issued technical fouls and ejected from the contest with 7:09 remaining in the third quarter of Detroit's 110-104 victory over the Hornets on Monday at Charlotte.
The melee erupted when Diabate committed a defensive foul on Duren.
Stewart and Duren begin serving their suspensions later on Wednesday when the Pistons visit Toronto. Bridges and Diabate start serving their suspensions when Charlotte host Atlanta.
Stewart, who will lose more than $724,000 in salary, will not be able to return until Detroit's March 3 game at Cleveland. He is averaging 10.0 points and 5.1 rebounds a game this season.
Duren, named to this week's NBA All-Star Game, is expected to be able to play in Sunday's event at Los Angeles.
Duren has averaged 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds a game this season for the Pistons, who lead the Eastern Conference at 39-13.
Charlotte, 10th in the East at 25-29, can welcome back Bridges and Diabate on February 24 when the Hornets visit Chicago.
Bridges averages 18.2 points and 6.1 rebounds a game while Frenchman Diabate averages 8.2 points and 8.6 rebounds a game.
The NBA also announced $35,000 fines for Atlanta Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Naz Reid for their roles in an altercation in a different contest.
The incident came eight seconds into the fourth quarter of Minnesota's 138-116 home victory over Atlanta on Monday when Senegal's Gueye committed a defensive foul by pushing Reid from behind.
Both players grabbed each other's jerseys in an aggressive fashion and were issued technical fouls and ejected from the game.
The T-Wolves stand 33-22, sixth in the Western Conference, while the Hawks are 26-29, ninth in the East.
The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is just around the corner, and with the regular season winding down in less than a month, all eyes are on the road to the Final Four.
Arizona and Michigan top the March Madness odds, with both teams looking to punch their tickets to Indianapolis.
Led by five-star forward Koa Peat, the Wildcats boast a Top-10 defensive rating and field goal percentage, with their only slip-up being a road loss to Kansas.
Michigan Wolverines
Of Michigan’s 22 wins this season, 18 have come by double digits.
6-foot-9 phenom Yaxel Lendeborg is doing the heavy lifting for the Wolverines, as the power forward is averaging 14.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game for the Maize & Blue.
Duke Blue Devils
The Blue Devils reached the Final Four under Jon Scheyer last year, and they’ll look to return this time around, buoyed by the nation’s second-best defensive rating.
Duke is 9-1 over its last 10 games and is led by freshman point guard Cameron Boozer, who is expected to be a top-five draft pick this summer.
The Philadelphia Phillies don't expect ace Zack Wheeler to be ready for Opening Day, but he told reporters Wednesday in Clearwater, Florida, that he's encouraged by the progress he's made in the nearly five months since his thoracic outlet decompression surgery.
He also revealed a humorous memento he received from that procedure.
The rib that was removed in order to prevent a vein under his collarbone from being crushed now lies in a small case.
"I just have it sitting it at the house," Wheeler said upon reporting for spring training, per OnPattison's Tim Kelly, drawing some laughter from reporters.
Naturally, a follow-up question was asked: "Where in the house?"
After a slight chuckle, Wheeler responded while smiling, "It's in my closet."
Zack Wheeler kept his rib that he had removed during thoracic outlet decompression surgery. It’s in his closet at his house.
Wheeler had to have his thoracic outlet surgically altered because of the compression of that vein, which was caused by what's known as venous thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS).
Wheeler's NL Cy Young Award candidacy was disrupted when he reported discomfort following an Aug. 15 start this past season. After feeling an abnormal heaviness in his shoulder, he received evaluations the following day. That's when his blood clot, officially in his "right upper extremity," was discovered.
Wheeler, who will turn 36 in May, was asked Wednesday if there was any part of him that was unsure he'd be able to pitch again when he navigated his rare type of TOS.
"No," Wheeler said, via OnPattison. "I think just any athlete, if you have a surgery, you're optimistic about it. You always have that good mindset of you're going to come back and be the same performer as you were. So that's kind of my mindset the whole time is, 'I'm going to be back to where I was.'
"I think that's the right mindset to have."
While the sample size isn't large for major-league pitchers and TOS, Wheeler isn't the first to make this kind of comeback. Arizona Diamondbacks righty Merrill Kelly did it in 2021.
The Phillies projected Wheeler's recovery to take 6-8 months. Even if he's not good to go by the start of the season, it's possible he won't need that much longer.
Wheeler threw this past weekend, and, according to Philadelphia manager Rob Thomson, it "went very good," as reported by MLB.com.
Phillies Ace Zack Wheeler is throwing on the first day of pitchers and catchers workouts pic.twitter.com/UsSdKeuSIJ
Across his first six seasons with the Phillies, Wheeler has registered a 2.91 ERA. He's piled up 1,094 strikeouts in 979 innings along the way.
Philadelphia's hoping he returns to form.
"It is encouraging, the progress so far," Wheeler said Wednesday, via OnPattison. "You kind of don't know what to expect as you're moving along. I'm sure there's speed bumps that you're going to hit along the way, as with any surgery or recovery. You just take it day-by-day, things as they come and go. Just trying to hit my checkmarks. ... So far, so good with that. I'm really just trying to make sure the arm strength is there every phase that we get to and then move on to the next one."
The three-time All-Star repeated: "So far, so good."
NBCUniversal has issued an apology after Olympic commentators repeatedly misgendered transgender skier Elis Lundholm during a livestream this week.
Lundholm, a trans man and the first trans skier to compete in the Winter Olympics, competed in the women’s moguls first qualifying round on February 10. International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) rules currently require trans athletes to participate in events corresponding to their “registered sex” with the governing body, as Newsweek noted.
During a live stream of the qualifiers on NBC’s platform Peacock, one of the two commentators — whose name was not stated during the broadcast — repeatedly referred to Lundholm as “she” during his first run, Outsports first reported on Tuesday. The other member of the team, identified as professional skier Sam Smoothy, used “they” rather than “he” in reference to Lundholm throughout the run. Lundholm uses he/him pronouns, rather than “they,” in English. (The announcer at the moguls event itself gendered Lundholm correctly, per Attitude.)
“She’s going to hop up and go around to make sure she does not DNF [Did Not Finish] as she continues down the line here,” the unidentified member of the commentary team said of Lundholm, after the Swedish skier skidded out near a gate early in his run.
An NBCUniversal representative apologized for streaming the misgendering comments in a statement to Outsports on Tuesday.
“NBC Sports takes this matter seriously,” the representative said. “Today we streamed an international feed with non-NBCUniversal commentators who misgendered Olympian Elis Lundholm. We apologize to Elis and our viewers, and we have removed the replay of that feed.” (The feed was still available to view directly through NBC’s website on Wednesday, but has been removed from the network’s Olympic replay lineup.)
“I did anticipate this but I am disappointed by it,” Glenn wrote on Instagram.
NBC’s 2026 Olympic commentary team for women’s moguls includes former Olympians Trace Worthington and Hannah Kearney, neither of whom appear to have been involved in the commentary streamed on Peacock. The stream may have been produced by Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), which handles international broadcasting on behalf of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). During the 2021 Olympics, NBC issued a similar apology after commentators repeatedly misgendered nonbinary skater Alana Smith during an OBS-produced commentary stream. Them emailed NBC Sports for further clarification, but did not immediately receive a reply.
This year’s Winter Olympics take place in the midst of international conflict over rules for trans athletes in elite competition. IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who took charge of the organization last year, has signaled that she will move to ban trans women from women’s competitions across the board, and will likely re-adopt “sex testing” for future Olympic events nearly three decades after the practice was phased out.
Lundholm finished 25th in the qualifiers and did not advance to the moguls’ final round. “I’m happy to put down a run today. It wasn’t the best run,” he told reporters in Milan, per the Associated Press. “There are some things to fix, but I’m happy.” Regarding eligibility rules, Lundholm said only that he wants “everyone to be able to compete fairly against each other.”
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Credit: Impaulsive Podcast
Tom Brady is a legend, and while he gained plenty of enemies and critics in the NFL world on his way to seven Super Bowl wins, I'm not sure he's used to a ton of disrespect. Unfortunately for him, Logan Paul has shown he's not afraid to challenge legends, having previously boxed Floyd Mayweather, and he might've poked the bear a little too much in a recent interview. ("Poked the GOAT," while applicable, isn't sounding quite right.)
Brady and Paul are both set to play against each other in a flag football event in Saudi Arabia on March 21st. I'm now more invested in watching this anti-spectacle than I was previously, especially after the former quarterback-turned-sports commentator looks determined to humble the WWE superstar.
Tom Brady Took Offense To Logan Paul Comparing Himself To NFL Athletes
The Impaulsive podcast did an episode on the Fanatics Super Bowl Party red carpet, and interviewed a number of stars as they made their way through the line. When it came time for Tom Brady to have a seat, Logan Paul went into their upcoming game in Saudi Arabia, and it feels as though things went south pretty quick. Take a listen by watching this quick exchange below:
Tom Brady TALKS TRASH to Logan Paul 🤬 pic.twitter.com/whA0hYlgPn
Logan Paul asserting he was on the same level athletically as Saquon Barkley, who won the NFL MVP last year, is a comment that most sports analysts would laugh at. That said, I think there's something unspoken here in Paul's words, and maybe Brady felt he was poking at he was more athletic than him, which is why I think the former Super Bowl champ called Paul's WWE career "cute."
I think there's some good-natured jawing going on, and I think it'd be foolish to dismiss Logan Paul's talent for hyping up the internet with viral clips. Still, I can't help but feel like he got under Tom Brady's skin a bit here, and I feel doubly so after seeing how the former quarterback responded on social media afterward.
Brady Had More To Say Online After The Interview
Tom Brady shared the clip on X, perhaps, because it made rounds on the internet. Brady didn't directly talk about any sleight he felt on behalf of Paul, but did stress he wants the flag football event to be taken seriously:
I hope people understand the level of competition this game is going to be. If you’re on my team you’re going to be locked in, all out, and we’re going to not just win... but dominate.I do think @loganpaulhas the right attitude and the effort will be there. How far that gets him will remain to be seen...I was having a great morning and now I'm mad.
Brady is known for his competitive nature, and he takes a lot of pride in his fitness. Plus, Flag Football is primed to be an Olympic event in 2028, so I'm sure there is some pressure for this event to have a competitive edge to it.
Does this mean that Logan Paul is going to get embarrassed by former and current NFL superstars when he takes the field in Saudi Arabia? Well, I guess it depends on how well he can play flag football, though I doubt he'll be upset either way. In the end, he's still going to make a ton of money from YouTube content, and it's not like anyone expects him to outperform any of the NFL players. I am certainly more invested in seeing how Brady does, though, and can't wait to watch these two meet on the flag football field.
As mentioned, we're going to see these two play flag football on March 21st as part of the 2026 TV schedule. Those interested will be able to see it on Fox Sports or Tubi, and see who comes out on top in this feud between Tom Brady and Logan Paul.
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 27: James Wood #29 of the Washington Nationals takes a swing during a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox at the Nationals Park on September 27, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Any intriguing potential Nats storyline emerged earlier today. It was reported that Corbin Carroll broke his Hamate bone in batting practice and will be missing the WBC. That means Team USA will have to find a replacement. Nationals star left fielder James Wood is reportedly on the shortlist of names according to Jon Morosi.
USA Baseball officials are working through possible injury replacements for Corbin Carroll.
Steven Kwan, Tyler Soderstrom, Riley Greene, Roman Anthony, James Wood, Wyatt Langford and Kyle Stowers are under consideration, per source.@MLBNetworkRadio@MLB
This is an exciting and potentially impactful development. While Wood is far from a lock to be the man Team USA picks, I think he is one of the top candidates. With Carroll out of the picture, Team USA’s outfielders are now Byron Buxton, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Aaron Judge. Wood would be a nice complement to those three. He brings an element of left handed power that this trio misses.
Clearly, that is what the folks running Team USA are looking for. Wyatt Langford is the only right handed bat in the mix. If Team USA wanted a contact oriented profile, Steven Kwan is the obvious pick, but the other options are power bats. However, none of the other names have quite as much raw power as Wood.
I think Wood has the most upside of anyone in that group. We know what he can do when he gets hot. It would also be a great experience for him as well. He would be able to take in knowledge from some of the game’s best players. Fellow giant outfielder Aaron Judge would be a great person for him to learn from. Judge had strikeout issues when he entered the league, but has fixed those.
When Wood gets a hold of a baseball, it looks like a left handed Aaron Judge at times. The raw power is totally jaw dropping. I remember his home run against the Orioles early in the season so well. It was the one of the first flyballs he pulled all season and he sent it 460 feet and hit the ball about 117 MPH.
While his Home Run Derby appearance did not go according to plan, the fact he got the invite shows he is highly thought of. You have to think people at Team USA may view Wood as a potential successor to Judge for the future. Bringing him to this event would be a great opportunity for him and Team USA.
It is easy to forget just how young James Wood is. He is entering his age 23 season and still has so much ahead of him. In his first full season as a big leaguer, Wood hit 31 homers and posted an .825 OPS. The second half and all the strikeouts left a sour taste, but that is still one heck of a season for a guy who was 22 for most of the year.
However, sending Wood to the WBC would not be without some risks. He would obviously be away from the team for a couple weeks. That could be time spent working with the Nats new coaches where he can refine his swing. There is also some injury risk, but that also exists in regular Spring Training games.
I think the reward far outweighs the risk though and it would be a good opportunity for Wood himself. He is not around any veteran stars in DC, so being with some of the best in the game at the WBC would be great for him. Wood is likely to learn a thing or two from the future Hall of Famers he is playing with. The chance to represent your country is always an honor as well.
Given he would be a replacement player, Wood probably won’t start the biggest games. However, he will still get playing time and would be a strong piece. If Team USA needed a big hit late in a game, Wood would be a great pinch hitter for a guy like Pete Crow-Armstrong.
Again, it is far from a guarantee that he will make the team, but James Wood is in the mix for Team USA. The Nats only have two players at the WBC right now, which is fewer than most teams. Hopefully James Wood can add a third Nat to the mix at this great competition.
The Atlanta Falcons held a press conference for their three coordinators on Wednesday, allowing offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman to share their philosophies ahead of the 2026 NFL offseason.
While all three coaches addressed the media, there was very little said about rookie James Pearce Jr.'s recent arrest. The Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist is facing five felony charges stemming from an incident in which he stalked his ex-girlfriend and crashed into her car before attempting to evade police.
Ulbrich was asked about the Pearce situation at Wednesday's press conference and while he wouldn't get into details, he expressed his disappointment in the former first-round selection.
"I was obviously disappointed, you know," answered Ulbrich before moving on to another question.
The Falcons defensive coordinator was asked if he's planning to be without Pearce in 2026 but did not want to speculate on the situation.
"It's still so early," Ulbrich stated about the team having Pearce back next season. "You know, we're not there yet, either way."
Even if Pearce is beats his charges, which doesn't seem likely, he will certainly face discipline from the NFL. According to ESPN's Marc Raimondi, Pearce's ex-girlfriend is prepared to testify in court.
WNBA’s Rickea Jackson “willing to testify” against James Pearce Jr. in domestic violence case https://t.co/J92y0GjeMV
Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the Pearce situation at the start of Wednesday's press conference.
"On the James Pearce situation, there's really nothing to add," said Stefanski. "I'll defer to the statement that was put out. I understand there are questions, but we don't have much to add there."
We'll have to wait and see how the situation plays out over the next few weeks.
The Toronto Raptors host the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons, with both teams playing well.
My Pistons vs. Raptors predictions and NBA picks break down this East battle and explain why Detroit presents more problems for the home team.
Pistons vs Raptors prediction
Pistons vs Raptors best bet: Pistons moneyline (-110)
The Toronto Raptors are fifth in the conference and 7-3 in their last 10. However, those losses came against Minnesota, Orlando, and New York, all of which featured double-digit second-half collapses.
The Detroit Pistons will present similar problems. They have the best record in the East and are the only team with a better net rating than Oklahoma City.
This is a matchup of Top 10 defensive teams, but Detroit also has a Top 10 offense, while Toronto lacks efficiency, ranking 18th in effective field goal percentage.
Pistons vs Raptors same-game parlay
Defensive battles usually mean lots of rebounds, and the Pistons are one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA. But with Jalen Duren getting a two-game suspension, that could mean more work from Ausar Thompson.
Thompson averages 6.6 rebounds over his last 13 games, topping 6.5 eight times.
No Duren means Raptors center Sandro Mamukelashvili should have some more room to work in the paint. Mamukelashvili is averaging 15.5 points over his last 12 games, going Over 12.5 points nine times in that stretch.
Pistons vs Raptors SGP
Pistons moneyline
Ausar Thompson Over 6.5 rebounds
Sandro Mamukelashvili Over 12.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Battle on the boards
Good defensive battles usually mean rebounds. These four guys could have a big night cleaning the glass.
Pistons vs Raptors SGP
Ausar Thompson Over 6.5 rebounds
Cade Cunningham Over 5.5 rebounds
Scottie Barnes Over 8.5 rebounds
RJ Barrett Over 5.5 rebounds
Pistons vs Raptors odds
Spread: Pistons -1 | Raptors +1
Moneyline: Pistons -110 | Raptors -110
Over/Under: Over 223 | Under 223
Pistons vs Raptors betting trend to know
The Pistons have covered the first-half spread in 26 of their last 40 games for +11.05 units and a 24% ROI. Find more NBA betting trends for Pistons vs. Raptors.
How to watch Pistons vs Raptors
Location
Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
Date
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN Detroit, TSN
Pistons vs Raptors latest injuries
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Karl-Anthony Towns is the NBA's active leader for fouling out of games. The New York Knicks center fouled out of Tuesday night's contest against the Indiana Pacers, his 45th game in his career with six fouls.
That's 14 more than the player with the second most offensive fouls in the league, center Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Utah Jazz, with 34.
Towns' tendency to commit offensive fouls
Towns is one of the best three-point shooting big men in NBA history, but he runs into trouble when he drives to the rim.
He has a tendency to hook his arm around the defender's back or arm to create space, resulting in an offensive foul.
"For the life of me, I don't understand why KAT won't stop hooking," Stefan Bondy, who covers the Knicks for the New York Post, wrote on X during Tuesday night's game against the Pacers.
Towns is having one of the worst offensive seasons of his career, shooting 46% from the field while averaging 19.8 points per game, the lowest mark of his time in the NBA since his rookie year in 2015-16 with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Rickea Jackson #2 of the Los Angeles Sparks reacts during the game against the Indiana Fever at Crypto.com Arena on August 5, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
MIAMI -- Last Saturday, Sparks forward Rickea Jackson was involved in a very scary incident with ex-boyfriend and Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce, Jr. According to a document, Jackson's attorneys has since said that she's willing to testify if the domestic violence case goes to trial.
"Pearce was arrested Saturday and is facing five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking. A pretrial conditional stay-away order was filed against Pearce by the court with regard to Jackson.
The victims' rights notice points out that Jackson has the rights under Florida law to be notified of updates in the case and be present at all public proceedings, as well as a "right to be heard in any public proceeding." In addition, it notes that Jackson has the right to confer with prosecutors about any plea deal and provide information about the impact the defendant has had on her and her family.
Jackson "remains cooperative and willing to testify at trial, if one is necessary," the attorneys wrote. Jackson is being represented by Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick.
"The victim is pleading with the Court and the State to conclude this matter promptly without hindering the efficacy of the prosecution's case," the attorneys wrote."
ESPN also had additional details from what took place on Saturday.
"Jackson told police that Pearce, her ex-boyfriend for almost three years, followed her in his vehicle Saturday morning, tried to open her car door at a stop and then later rammed her car with his vehicle multiple times when she tried to enter into the Doral Police Department, according to an affidavit. Police responded after Jackson called.
According to the affidavit, officers saw Pearce standing on the outside of his SUV on the driver's side with the door open. An officer pulled a gun on Pearce and ordered him to get on the floor. Pearce got back into his car and closed the door. The officer opened the door, but Pearce shut it again, locked it and drove away.
While Pearce was driving away, the SUV struck an officer in his left knee. The affidavit describes it as "intentionally in an attempt to evade arrest."
Police followed Pearce's vehicle in cars until Pearce crashed at an intersection. Pearce then got out of his car and fled on foot. Officers were able to catch up with him, although Pearce "began to resist arrest by tensing his arms and not allowing officers to apprehend him."
Pearce, 22, was released on $20,500 bond Sunday evening. In addition to the domestic violence charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (two counts) and aggravated stalking, Pearce is also being accused of felony aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, felony fleeing and deluding police officers and resisting an officer without violence to his person, a misdemeanor."
The Falcons released a statement last Saturday that they were "gathering more information."
Jackson, who has spent two years with the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA thus far, was scheduled to compete in the one-on-one tournament for Unrivaled. There's also no word on whether she'll continue to compete in the women's three-on-three basketball league.
On Tuesday's "Busted Open Radio," two-time Hall of Famer Bully Ray attempted to find some silver linings for Breakker's situation. While admitting that there is never a good time to suffer an injury, especially when one is on the main event trajectory Breakker appeared to be on, Bully was able to find one positive that should benefit Breakker when he is ready to return.
"If there's one thing that I have seen in wrestling...when guys do get injured, and they go on the shelf for a period of time, sometimes it works out really, really well," Bully said. "It actually works out most times really, really well. Because absence makes the heart grow fonder. You're away from the product, and they bring you back as a surprise.
"They bring you back, and people are like 'Holy s**t! He's back! She's back!' And you wind up doing better than where you were in the first place. Now, I don't know how much better you can do than where Bron is right now. But this could work out for him. Maybe the wrestling gods were saying 'You know what kid? This is not the right time. We have a better time planned out for you.'"
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "Busted Open Radio" and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription
Oregon tennis delivered a two-win weekend at the UO Student Tennis Center, with the men surviving a 4-3 thriller against Utah State on Friday and the women cruising to a 6-1 victory over in-state rival Portland on Saturday. Both squads stayed unbeaten at home this spring behind strong doubles play and key singles performances.
Men’s Tennis: Oregon 4, Utah State 3
Oregon battled through a back-and-forth match Friday night, clinching a 4-3 win over Utah State to remain undefeated at home. The Ducks (7-2) grabbed momentum early by taking the doubles point, earning wins on courts two and three. Vlad Breazu and Declan Galligan earned a 6-2 victory, while Cameron Burton and Lachlan Robertson secured the point with a 6-4 win. The top doubles match was left unfinished with Oregon leading 5-3.
In singles, Breazu extended Oregon’s lead with a 6-2, 6-4 win at No. 1, and Russell Soohoo followed with a 6-4, 6-3 victory at No. 6 to push the Ducks within a point of winning the match. Utah State responded with singles wins on courts two, three, and four to tie the score at 3-3, setting up a deciding point.
Robertson delivered the clincher at No. 5, outlasting Jakub Medved in a three-set battle, 7-5, 4-6, 7-5, to seal the 4-3 decision.
Women’s Tennis: Oregon 6, Portland 1
The Oregon women followed Saturday with a dominant showing, defeating Portland 6-1 to stay unbeaten at the Student Tennis Center this spring. The Ducks (5-1) improved to 4-0 at home after securing the doubles point and winning five singles matches.
Tilde Jagare and Olivia Symons started the day with a 6-1 win at No. 1 doubles, and freshmen Hadley Appling and Virginia Crocker completed a 6-3 victory on court three to put Oregon up 1-0. Appling and Crocker remained perfect together, moving to 3-0 when paired this season.
Oregon then won the first five singles matches to clinch the dual. Jagare rebounded after dropping the first set at No. 1, rallying for a three-set win (2-6, 6-4, 6-1). Sophomores Patsy Daughters (No. 4) and Bridget Mihulka (No. 6) added points in straight sets, with Mihulka picking up her fifth straight win and staying unbeaten in the spring at the sixth position. Crocker earned a 7-5, 6-1 win at No. 3 to improve to 4-1 in dual play, and freshman Hinata Furutani battled to a 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory at No. 5 to move to 3-0.
Saturday’s match marked the 40th all-time meeting between Oregon and Portland, with the Ducks improving to 39-1 in the series.
Up Next
Oregon men’s tennis hosts Liberty on Friday at 5 pm while women’s tennis returns to the UO Student Tennis Center next Saturday for a doubleheader, hosting UC Riverside at 10 a.m. followed by Seattle U at 5 pm.
Jordan Stolz won his first gold medal of these Olympics in the 1000m.Photograph: Sarah Stier/Getty Images
Jordan Stolz had to wait a little longer than expected on Wednesday night. But when confirmation finally came, the 21-year-old American could celebrate his first Olympic gold medal – and the opening chapter of what could become one of the defining campaigns of the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.
Skating in the second-to-last group, Stolz set an Olympic record time of 1min 6.28sec in the men’s 1000m on the strength of a stunning final lap, delivering in his signature event to launch his pursuit of a potential four-gold haul across these Games.
His time ultimately stood after a brief period of uncertainty triggered by a late-race judging decision that allowed a reskate to Joep Wennemars – who had beaten Stolz at the distance at last year’s world championships – after it was ruled that the Dutch skater was hindered earlier in the competition. The delay forced Stolz, Jenning de Boo and the rest of the field to wait while officials confirmed the final standings – a wrinkle in what had otherwise looked like a decisive victory.
The crowd chanted “Joep! Joep! Joep!” as Wennemars returned to the ice, but skating alone he never threatened Stolz’s mark. When he crossed the line more than two seconds off the pace, Stolz could finally celebrate, gliding through a slow victory lap while holding the US flag aloft before posing for photos with his longtime coach, Bob Corby.
Skating head-to-head with De Boo in the penultimate heat, Stolz did not threaten his own world record of 1:05.37, but comfortably lowered the Olympic mark of 1:07.18, which had stood for 24 years.
At least 90% of the packed arena wore Dutch orange, turning the venue into a rolling wall of sound as the final heats unfolded. Stolz responded with the same controlled, clinical skating that has defined his rise over the past three seasons.
The win immediately established him as one of the central figures of these Games and kept alive the possibility of a medal run rarely seen in Winter Olympic history.
With Iowa women's basketball (18-5, 9-3 Big Ten) looking to end its three-game losing streak in its Wednesday matchup against Washington (18-6, 8-5 Big Ten) from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, freshman guard Addie Deal and freshman center Layla Hays spoke on their preparation for the Huskies during the Hawkeyes' six-day break.
When asked how the team spent the five-day break between games, Deal said the Hawkeyes used it to work on themselves and viewed it as a mental reset.
"I feel like we've just been working on ourselves a lot, which has been really good," Deal said. "You know, we've had a couple extra practices with this being the bye week, so just focusing on ourselves, knowing what we need to do out there. I think it was a good little quick reset and just got us right back on track."
Hays added to Deal's comment, saying they have definitely used the off time to make necessary adjustments, especially with each game vital in the final stretch of the regular season.
"Especially focusing on the things that I really know I need to work on, and I feel like these past couple days have been really important, and I think that we've seen some growth in just how we've been playing," Hays said.
With Iowa's Feb. 11 matchup at Carver-Hawkeye Arena against Washington carrying tremendous weight due to the Hawkeyes' recent skid, Hays, Deal, and the rest of the program hope the time off will prove fruitful against the Huskies and moving forward.
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 Scout on X: @SpringgateNews
GREEN BAY – Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur is going with familiarity to replace a key position on his offensive coaching staff.
Rather than hiring someone from outside, LaFleur is shuffling his staff around, moving senior offensive assistant Luke Getsy to quarterbacks coach to fill the spot Sean Mannion vacated for a promotion to offensive coordinator with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to NFL Network.
The move wasn’t a big surprise given Getsy had served as LaFleur’s quarterbacks coach from 2019-21 before leaving to be Chicago’s offensive coordinator. Getsy returned to the Packers in ’24 as a defensive consultant after serving two years with the Bears and part of a season with the Las Vegas Raiders.
He was moved to senior offensive assistant in ’25.
Getsy was originally hired by coach Mike McCarthy as a quality control assistant in 2014. He was promoted to receivers coach in 2016, left to be offensive coordinator at Mississippi State in 2018 and returned to be LaFleur’s quarterbacks coach the next season.
LaFleur reportedly interviewed West Allis native and former Arizona Cardinals passing game coordinator Conor Senger for a position on his staff, but it’s unclear how strongly he was considered for the quarterbacks position.
By moving Getsy to Mannion’s former spot, LaFleur will be essentially running it back with his offensive staff.
Though he has yet to announce any hirings or firings, it appears the only move he made is to let receivers coach Ryan Mahaffey go. Mahaffey will join Mannion in Philadelphia and serve as run game coordinator and tight ends coach.
The only new position coach or coordinator he’ll be adding is former Iowa State receivers coach Noah Pauley, who will replace Mahaffey, according to multiple reports.
Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich, offensive line coach Luke Butkus, tight ends coach John Dunn, passing game coordinator Jason Vrable and running backs coach Ben Sirmans appear to be returning. There have been no reports about any of them or assistant line coach Eddie Gordon, pass game specialist/game management Connor Lewis and quality control coach Rob Grosso leaving.
Carlos Baleba: United to make move for Brighton star on one condition
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is the latest talent to emerge on Manchester United’s radar ahead of a midfield revamp in the summer.
According to Teamtalk, United have a genuine interest in Tonali, who will consider leaving Newcastle at the end of the season, as per his agent.
United are keen on signing Premier League-proven midfielders, with plans to sign two players to feature in the middle of the park.
Manchester United expand their midfield shortlist
Apart from Tonali, United have been strongly linked with Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. Both Tonali and Anderson have firmly established themselves as key figures at Newcastle and Forest respectively.
The same cannot be said for Carlos Baleba, who is enduring a difficult campaign. The Cameroon international has made 17 starts in the Premier League this term, but has completed 90 minutes just twice.
Baleba was considered former United head coach Ruben Amorim’s dream transfer target, owing to his exceptional athleticism and front-footed defending.
The Red Devils even agreed personal terms with the 22-year-old last summer and it is believed he is hoping to play alongside fellow countryman Bryan Mbeumo at Old Trafford.
Manchester United remain interested in Carlos Baleba
Baleba’s stock has seemingly plummeted this season, but Brighton are still hoping to fetch around £100 million for the Cameroonian.
Teamtalk claims Baleba “could still become an option” for United if the Seagulls lower their valuation closer to the £70m mark at the end of the campaign.
Such is Baleba’s profile that, despite his struggles at Brighton, he continues to attract interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United are joined by Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea in the race for the dynamic midfielder.
As such, Brighton are unlikely to significantly reduce their asking price.
Borussia Dortmund have picked up 48 points and currently lie in 2nd position. Last time out, Niko Kovac's team triumphed 1-2 against Wolfsburg (1. Bundesliga 2025/26).
Mainz have won 21 points to date and are placed in 14th position. In their last fixture, Urs Fischer's team won 2-0 against FC Augsburg (1. Bundesliga 2025/26).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Borussia Dortmund winning 2-0.
A moment from the 2026 Winter Olympics has unexpectedly captured the attention of a former NFL star.
Super Bowl-winning quarterback Chase Daniel has reacted strongly after seeing a statistic circulate on social media.
The comment quickly sparked debate among fans across multiple sports. It centered on Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo’s gold medal performance.
Chase Daniel reacts to viral Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo statistic
During the 2026 Winter Olympics, a social media post claimed Klaebo was running uphill at a sub-six-minute mile pace during his cross-country ski sprint.
The statistic stunned many who are more familiar with track or football than winter endurance racing.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Chase Daniel did not hold back in his reaction.
“I’m telling you, this may be the greatest athletic feat of all time,” he wrote. “I can’t run a sub-six-minute mile on flat earth.
“This guy is going up the hill, and he’s on skis. If you want to talk about the coolest and greatest feat of all time…”
His comment quickly gained traction as fans debated whether his performance deserved that title.
What Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo actually achieved in his 2026 gold medal run
Klaebo completed the sprint in 3 minutes, 39.8 seconds to secure gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
While the claim focused on uphill pace, the course was not entirely uphill, though it did include a demanding climb that tested both endurance and power.
Cross-country ski sprint events require explosive acceleration, sustained strength, and precise technique across varied terrain.
Even with added context around the course profile, Klaebo’s display remained remarkable and was clearly strong enough to draw admiration from elite athletes outside winter sport.
Casey Wasserman will continue serving as chair of the committee overseeing the 2028 Summer Games after the LA28 board reviewed his inclusion in recently released Jeffrey Epstein files.
The files from the Justice Department revealed email exchanges between Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell dating back to 2003.
The LA28 board released a statement Wednesday morning, saying that Wasserman's relationship with Epstein and Maxwell "did not go beyond what was documented."
Read the full statement below:
"LA28 takes allegations of misconduct seriously, and our Board is committed to thoroughly reviewing any concerns related to the organization's leadership."
"With the assistance of outside counsel at O'Melveny & Myers LLP, a review was conducted of Mr. Wasserman's past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Mr. Wasserman fully cooperated with the review."
"We found Mr. Wasserman's relationship with Epstein and Maxwell did not go beyond what has already been publicly documented."
"Twenty-three years ago, before Mr. Wasserman or the public knew of Epstein and Maxwell's deplorable crimes, Mr. Wasserman and his then-wife flew on a humanitarian mission to Africa on Epstein's plane at the invitation of the Clinton Foundation. This was his single interaction with Epstein. Shortly after, he traded the publicly-known emails with Maxwell. "
"The Executive Committee of the Board has determined that based on these facts, as well as the strong leadership he has exhibited over the past ten years, Mr. Wasserman should continue to lead LA28 and deliver a safe and successful Games."
The committee offered no additional details about the review but reiterated that it had examined the matter and concluded Wasserman should stay in place.
Wasserman's name appeared several times in the latest batch of documents connected to Epstein.
The emails were exchanged between Wasserman and Maxwell at a time when Maxwell was trafficking young women.
In the messages, Wasserman - who was married at the time - asked to see Maxwell in a tight leather outfit and requested a massage.
He has since apologized for his association with both Maxwell and Epstein. Some local officials say that apology does not go far enough.
Three Los Angeles city councilmembers, two county supervisors, and a state senator are among those now urging Wasserman to resign.
Meantime, Grammy-winning singer Chappell Roan announced on Monday that she has left the talent agency led by Wasserman.
"If LA28 is very proud of women being in record numbers at the Olympic and Paralympic Games as they've been talking about, they need to have a leader who maybe isn't affiliated with a convicted human trafficker," said L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath.
"Either the Epstein files matter in terms of leadership or they don't," she added. "I think our survivors want there to be accountability, and they want people of conscience to take action."
L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn and L.A. City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez are also calling for Wasserman's resignation, saying his continued role undermines ongoing efforts to ensure the 2028 Games reflect the city's values.
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, however, has not joined those calls.
"As Los Angeles prepares to take the world stage and welcome the world for the Olympic Games for the third time and the Paralympics for the first, it is critical to be 100% focused on making our city shine and ensuring the 2028 Games are the best in Los Angeles' history," she said in a previous statement. "Ultimately, any decision on the LA28 leadership must be made by the LA28 Board. As you know, they are a separate and independent nonprofit organization."
The LA28 Summer Olympics are scheduled to begin in two years, with global attention already turning toward L.A. as preparations intensify.
Nov 16, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins (73) celebrates Josh Allen’s first quarter touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
The Buffalo Bills are in a bit of a soft reset this offseason, firing head coach Sean McDermott and promoting Joe Brady to the top job. It’s not a full reset and they have Josh Allen, but they are pretty close to the salary cap right now for 2026.
There’s been some chatter that one way they can create cap space and save cash is by trading Dion Dawkins. I can understand the argument.
Why would the Bills trade Dion Dawkins?
Dawkins is about to turn 32, he has the second-biggest cap hit on the team, and the third-biggest cash allotment in 2026. He had a good-not-great season and missed a game with a concussion (not exactly a sign of age catching up to him). When Dawkins was out, Ryan Van Demark came in and played pretty solidly and RVD is a lot cheaper. They could also move Spencer Brown over there full-time as he has cross-trained there and bring along a new right tackle in an easier assignment.
How much would the Bills save by trading Dion Dawkins?
Dawkins is set to make $16.8 million in 2026 in cash, with the majority coming in base salary so they don’t have to rush any moves. Part of that overall number is a $500,000 roster bonus in March and a $500,000 workout bonus prior to training camp. The remainder is paid during the season.
None of that money is guaranteed right now, so if they release him or trade him before the fifth day of the league year in March, they will owe him nothing. It would also be low-risk for the team trading for him, theoretically.
A chunk of it fully guarantees when the roster bonus hits, but the new team would pay that guaranteed salary after Buffalo paid the roster bonus, so this can go all the way to the draft if they want it to.
How would a Dion Dawkins trade impact the Bills’ cap space?
Buffalo has roughly -$10 million in cap space for 2026 right now. They will need to make moves to get under the cap. (It’s a relatively simple process.)
If he is on the team, Dawkins’ cap hit will be $24.8 million in 2026. Because none of his money is guaranteed, the entire $16.8 million in compensation would be removed if he was traded before the fifth day of the league year in March.
That would be offset by the acceleration of his dead cap money. That is money already paid to Dawkins in bonuses — signing and option bonuses — that has been spread out on the cap by the Bills over multiple years. Add the $6.6 million in dead cap from his 2024 contract extension to the $7.8 million dead cap from the 2025 restructure and $4.8 million from his 2025 option bonus, and the dead cap adds up quickly.
His dead cap hit would be $22 million, so Buffalo would only save roughly $2.85 million in cap space in 2026 BUT they wouldn’t be paying the $16.8 million and prolonging those dead cap hits to 2027 or 2028.
The mathematical logic makes sense to me, especially for 2027 and 2028. It’s a move similar to what they did with center Mitch Morse a couple offseason ago. It isn’t necessarily for 2026, it would be for the future years.
Trading Dion Dawkins would be really risky
General manager Brandon Beane stated in January that the number one goal he has is to protect Josh Allen, pointing to the offensive line investment they’ve made. So turning around and trading Dawkins doesn’t feel like part of the plan.
Adding to that is the status of left guard David Edwards and center Connor McGovern. Both of them are free agents heading into the 2026 offseason, and the cash for McGovern+Edwards is going to be significant. Spotrac estimates $16 million per season for McGovern and $20 million per season for Edwards. So they are already replacing a chunk of their OL interior.
So do you really want to trade a beloved locker room leader, the team’s Walter Payton Man of the Year, the most recognizable face outside of Josh Allen, the man who just earned the key to the city of Buffalo? It seems like a long shot.
With the white flag already raised on this season and a retool underway, the New York Rangers must diligently prepare for the 2026 NHL Draft, where they should have one of the top selections.
The Rangers (22-29-6) are 30th overall in the NHL standings at the Olympic break, with an 11.6 percent chance of winning the NHL Draft lottery to secure the No. 1 overall pick, per Tankathon.
Of course, a lot can change the final six weeks of the regular season. But it’s fair to say that the Rangers will be in line for at least a Top-10 pick for the first time since selecting Alexis Lafreniere first overall in 2020.
The first step for the Rangers is identifying what they need most, then finding the prospects who can fill those gaps. While most experts already penciled in Penn State forward Gavin McKenna as the top pick in this year’s draft, the rebuilding Rangers could consider a different direction.
Every scout that mentored me over the years preached the same philosophy: build from the blue line out. That approach becomes even more important when a cornerstone NHL player like Adam Fox misses nearly half the season due to injury, as happened this season, and there’s no adequate replacement on the roster to fill his skates.
That’s why the Rangers should target defenseman Chase Reid from the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League with their first-round pick in June. Reid is the best two-way defenseman in his draft class. At 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, and as a right-handed shot, he’s be a nice fit behind Fox one day in the Rangers lineup, and then, perhaps, as his successor on the top pair.
Through 42 games, Reid has 47 points (18 goals, 29 assists) with a plus-30 rating, though he’s currently day to day with an upper-body injury. Reid, who had 40 points in 39 games with the Soo last season, also represented the United States at the 2026 World Junior Championship and totaled four points (two goals, two assists) in five games.
Offensively, Reid is a mobile, creative puck-mover who generates chances with both his skating and passing. He projects as a strong power-play quarterback thanks to his vision and awareness. He’s also confident shooting the puck and has a knack for getting shots through traffic, creating rebounds even when he doesn’t score. Reid has signed a letter of intent to play at Michigan State in 2026–27, but a top-three selection could change that timeline.
Defensively, he closes quickly, shows excellent footwork, and consistently makes smart reads. His ability to anticipate plays is elite — he processes the game like a chess grandmaster.
Chase Reid among defensemen Rangers could consider at 2026 NHL Draft
Chase Reid — photo courtesy Terry Wilson, OHL Images
Reid, No. 4 on NHL Central Scouting’s latest list of North American skaters for the 2026 draft, signed a letter of intent to attend Michigan State University next season. Of course, if he’s selected within the top few picks of the draft, perhaps he’d consider turning pro right away. Assuming Fox, Will Borgen, Braden Schenider, and Scott Morrow remain on the NHL roster, there’d be no reason for the Rangers to rush Reid to the NHL, if they chose him in the draft.
New York’s 2024 first-round pick, EJ Emery, is also a right-shot defenseman, currently playing his sophomore season at North Dakota. So, again, no reason to rush Reid should the Rangers land him in the draft.
Plus the 18-year-old sounds pretty enthused about heading to Michigan State.
“I wanted to play close to home,” Reid told The Hockey News. “The coaches were unbelievable, and everything about the facilities and the fans, seeing the environment the guys play in, it was pretty much a no-brainer. My aunt played volleyball for the Spartans, and I always wanted to go there – we’re a Spartan family.”
As for which NHL defenseman he compares his game to, Reid chose Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets.
“He’s a big, strong defenseman who does all the little things right,” Reid explained. “He plays fast in transition, he’s got a bomb for a shot, and he uses his size to his advantage.”
Another strong option on the blue line is Keaton Verhoeff, a teammate of Emery at North Dakota. Verhoeff is even bigger than Reid at 6-foot-4 and 208 pounds. His offensive upside is solid, though he may not produce big NHL numbers. Still, if Reid is off the board, Verhoeff would be hard to pass up. He is calm under pressure, thrives in difficult situations, and rarely misreads a play. For a 17-year-old, his maturity stands out. Among the top 16 scouting services, his lowest ranking is sixth—Reid, by comparison, has a few nines and tens.
A third option is Albert Smits from Latvia. As a left-handed defenseman, he’s a possible fit behind Vladisalv Gavrikov one day. Smits is a reliable shutdown defender with excellent passing ability. He plays a physical, punishing style, and opponents need to keep their heads up when he’s on the ice. Smits is widely expected to become the first Latvian player drafted inside the top 10.
For a team in the Rangers position, the 2026 draft is an opportunity to reset the foundation, especially with a lottery pick and another later in the first round from the Carolina Hurricanes. And if they follow the long-proven blueprint of building from the back end out, Reid — and to a lesser extent Verhoeff or Smits — is the right place to start.
No one was impacted by the Minnesota Vikings' inconsistency at quarterback in 2025 more than Justin Jefferson. Despite starting all 17 games, he caught only 84 passes for 1,048 yards and two touchdowns.
Jefferson only eclipsed the 100-yard mark three times in 2025. He failed to get over 30 yards in four of five games from Weeks 12 through 16.
Although Jefferson still ranked 12th in receiving yards, many were ready to start crowning other receivers, such as Puka Nacua and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, above him. But Jefferson isn't ready to concede that he's not still the best receiver in the league.
"How [am I] not?" Jefferson said when asked if he believes he's the best receiver in the league on FS1's First Things First. "A lot of people base it off the quarterback play."
Jefferson alluded to J.J. McCarthy's struggles as a first-year starter.
"If I don’t have an elite quarterback throwing me the ball the entire year, then it’s a little bit difficult to be in those conversations. Having a young quarterback that's still learning the game and his potential, you have those difficult seasons, which I had this past year. I still think I'm No. 1."
The Vikings will likely bring in competition for McCarthy this offseason. Even if that quarterback can't beat McCarthy out, he can provide better backup play than Max Brosmer provided in 2025.
If Minnesota can figure that position out, we should become accustomed to seeing Jefferson catching touchdowns and having 100-yard games again. That should put him right near the top of everyone's receiver rankings.
From the icy chutes of the bobsled track to the steep descents of the Alpine slopes, the 2026 Winter Olympics have been defined by a constant, high-pitched hum as a new generation of first-person-view (FPV) drones replaces static cameras with high-speed perspectives.
This fleet of over 25 specialized aircraft, capable of tailing athletes at speeds up to 140 kph, has offered viewers an unprecedented look at the elite competition, while simultaneously sparking a debate among purists over the intrusive buzz now echoing through the mountain valleys of Italy.
Here's more on how drones are taking the 2026 Winter Games by storm.
Drones are being used in Milan to fundamentally change how audiences experience speed. While drones have been used in previous Olympics for scenery or light shows, this year marks the official debut of First-Person View (FPV), chasing athletes in real-time during live competition.
The Olympic drone pilots are the best thing that happened the games, unsung heroes, period.
The coverage this year is officially on another level. We can finally feel so much closer to the action, it's pure magic, unreal.
Traditional fixed cameras often fail to convey the sheer velocity of winter sports. Drones instead provide a parallel perspective rather than a perpendicular one.
An FPV (First-Person View) drone is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that allows the pilot to see exactly what the drone sees in real-time.
Unlike standard drones where the pilot looks at a screen on a controller or a smartphone, an FPV pilot wears video goggles that provide an immersive, cockpit-style view.
The drones that NBC is using for its Olympic coverage weigh just 250 grams and can travel at speeds up to 75 miles per hour. These drones have been a great addition to the broadcast — it really helps you appreciate the speed of some of these events.pic.twitter.com/E20e90Yury
What other sports have used drones in broadcasts before?
Extreme sports were the first to embrace drones because their athletes often move through terrain that is impossible for traditional camera cranes or helicopters to navigate.
ESPN was one of the first major broadcasters to use drones during the 2015 Winter X Games in Aspen. They tracked snowboarders and snowmobile racers, providing the first real chase footage seen on television.
Traditional field sports were slower to adopt drones due to safety concerns over flying above massive crowds, but several leagues have broken the barrier, including MLB, where teams now use drones for pre-game coverage and to capture cinematic sweeps of the stadium during home runs.
Lastly, drones have become a staple of PGA Tour and LIV Golf broadcasts. Instead of just showing a graphic of the hole, drones fly the entire length of the fairway at "ball height," giving viewers a literal "bird's eye" view of the hazards and green undulations before the players tee off.
Here's a table of when drones made their debuts for respective sports:
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel talks to players during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images | Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Mike Vrabel stood in front of his Patriots’ team for the final time on Tuesday.
Two days after a magical season ended in disappointment in Super Bowl LX, Vrabel delivered a simple message.
“I just talked about a disappointing finish to a phenomenal, exciting, enjoyable year. It’s unfortunate,” he shared. “Talked to them about the foundation I think that we’ve built.
“We built a foundation, but we aren’t done remodeling,” rookie Will Campbell echoed. “We did some great things this year, and there’s obviously a lot of area for improvement and that’s up to us to do.”
After back-to-back four win seasons, few expected the Patriots to even be playing on Sunday’s biggest stage entering the season.
But a reshaped roster and new culture established by Vrabel that created a tight bond in the locker room, New England exceeded expectations — something the coach acknowledged on Tuesday.
As the Patriots now look to clear the final hump, this offseason will likely look different from the last. It won’t include a major spending spree, and it won’t include a top draft pick, with New England slated to select 31st overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Instead, the focus will be on upgrading and remodeling the roster rather than rebuilding it.
“Much like a home, you build a home and then run out of things to do, so you continue to add on to it, you finish the basement, you make additions to it, and we’ll try to do that to this football team,” Vrabel said. “I like the foundation of it, and we’ll try to improve on it.”
For a team that wore custom blue, collared work shirts throughout the year, the construction analogy resonated throughout the team auditorium.
“I think that was a great analogy,” upcoming free agent K’Lavon Chaisson said. “We set a good foundation for what we want this new era of the franchise to be.”
Vrabel, the AP Coach of the Year, is central to that foundation. So is 23-year-old quarterback Drake Maye, who emerged as one of the league’s top players this season despite a rocky stretch in the playoffs.
Together, they represent the biggest reason for optimism that the Patriots can return to this stage — and finish the job.
“You got Drake Maye. You got Coach Vrabel. That’s a great start to any organization,” cornerback Carlton Davis said. “So from there on, we just keep building. We just keep putting the right pieces together, keep meshing together and keep working. And you guys will see us soon.”
The Cleveland Cavaliers are doing well this season, sitting at 33-21 and fourth place in the Eastern Conference. However, if their playoff luck is the same as the past few seasons, something worrisome could happen.
According to Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, that worrisome thing regards Cleveland’s franchise star, Donovan Mitchell. Hughes predicts if the Cavs are early playoff exits, Mitchell could ask for a trade.
“Mitchell didn't choose Cleveland; he was traded there. And his decision to sign a two-year extension with a player option on the third in 2024 wasn't necessarily a display of undying loyalty. That deal was designed to put him back on the market with 10 years of service, when he could agree to a new contract worth up to $380 million. It was also a concession that other teams—some of which he's been rumored to prefer all along, like the New York Knicks—simply couldn't pay him more than the Cavs could at that time. If Cleveland goes belly-up in the postseason, Mitchell will immediately become a hot commodity. Realistically, anything short of a competitive run that ends in the conference finals will trigger whispers of an impending move,” Hughes wrote.
So far this season, Mitchell is averaging 29 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.5 steals in 33.8 minutes per game. To lose Mitchell would be a devastating blow to Cleveland’s offense and defense, as they would be losing their main superstar.
However there is a chance Mitchell could stay anyways. It was reported that he and James Harden are already trying to recruit future Hall-of-Famer LeBron James to play for his hometown one last time, and if that happens, Mitchell has no reason to leave.
Here’s hoping the latter is true, as a Big Three of James, Harden, and Mitchell could bring Cleveland back to the promised land for the first time in a decade.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 23: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs and Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts embrace after the game at Arrowhead Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Unfortunately, neither quarterback was able to finish out the 2025 campaign, as Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in Week 14, while Mahomes tore his ACL in Week 15.
Prior to his devastating injury, having paired with Colts head coach Shan Steichen, Jones was in the middle of a career year. He had completed 261 of 384 total pass attempts (68.0%) for 3,101 total passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns, and 8 interceptions during his first 13 starts, before his debut campaign in Indy was cut short.
He also had 5 rushing touchdowns.
Jones was well on his way to earning legitimate Pro Bowl honors, where he was named an alternate, even after the season-ending injury.
With Jones behind center, the Colts once boasted a historic, league-leading offense before his injuries struck—having also fractured his fibula during/after Indianapolis’ win at Berlin in Week 10.
Even though Jones is a pending free agent, and remains currently rehabbing from his torn Achilles, both sides appear eager to get a multi-year contract extension inked sooner rather than later. It was reported earlier this past weekend that those contract negotiations are expected to begin between both sides very soon.
It would be very surprising if the Colts’ nearly fringe Top 10 NFL starting quarterback from last year isn’t back in Indianapolis for at least the next few seasons.
For what it’s worth, Colts replacement quarterbacks Philip Rivers (3 starts) and rookie Riley Leonard (1 start) were ranked 36th and 47th overall from 2025 respectively.
ETIHAD STADIUM, MANCHESTER — Manchester City will look to apply pressure on leaders Arsenal in the Premier League title race when they host Fulham on Wednesday.
Pep Guardiola mades two changes from the team that beat Liverpool at Anfield, as Ruben Dias and Phil Foden came in for Abdukodir Khusanov and Omar Marmoush.
John Stones was in a City matchday squad for the first time since the reverse fixture at Craven Cottage in December.
Fulham team news
Fulham also made a couple of alterations following the 2-1 loss to Everton. Kenny Tete and Calvin Bassey come into the backline in place of Timothy Castagne and Jorge Cuenca, who each drop to the bench.
England will take on New Zealand on June 6 before facing Costa Rica four days later (Ben STANSALL)
England will face New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida friendlies in their final preparations for the World Cup in June.
Thomas Tuchel's men will take on New Zealand on June 6 before facing Costa Rica four days later.
Venues for both matches are yet to be confirmed but will reportedly be in Tampa, Miami or Orlando to allow the squad to acclimatise to what are expected to be sweltering conditions.
England will then head to Kansas City, where they will be based at the Soccer Swope Village for the duration of the tournament.
The Missouri city was the English Football Association's preferred location, despite two of their group games and several potential knockout matches being on the east coast of the United States.
England begin their quest for a first major tournament win since 1966 against Croatia in Dallas on June 17.
The side ranked fourth in the world then face Ghana in Boston and Panama in New Jersey.
After qualifying with a perfect record of eight wins from eight games without conceding a goal, England face Uruguay and Japan in friendlies on home soil next month.
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 09: Neal Shipley of The Bay Golf Club reacts with teammates after making a hole-in-one on the fifth hole during a match against Los Angeles Golf Club at SoFi Center on February 09, 2026 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/TGL/TGL Golf via Getty Images) | TGL Golf via Getty Images
Everything changed on Monday night.
With the Super Bowl and football season at large now officially behind us, the sports world was ready to give its whole heart to something. Just one day after the Seattle Seahawks won it all, Neal Shipley and The Bay Golf Club made sure that TGL was that thing.
The Bay took on Los Angeles Golf Club on Monday night in a TGL match that was available on ESPN. Things transcended even the worldwide leader though thanks to Neal specifically as he recorded the first ace in the league’s young history and went all kinds of viral.
It was perfect: The wait, the anticipation, the moment… Luke Clanton represented everyone watching by jumping all over Neal to celebrate. He may have been a little bit more excited as he had called it by asking Shipley to hoop one right before he actually did.
TGL has become this thing and found this spot that works so well in the overall sports landscape. It sits in between standard PGA Tour action so keeps golf fans involved with the game they all know during the work week. Factor in superstars and huge moments like Neal’s ace and everything is working together in a harmony that is simply perfect.
Shipley spoke to this overall effect and his TGL experience, Monday was his first night teeing it up at the SoFi Center in the league, in a chat with SB Nation less than 48 hours after the action unfolded. It was a great bit of insight into his own experience and energy that TGL is bringing to the sporting world.
You can watch our conversation below.
There is so much positive momentum and energy surrounding golf at large and TGL is a big reason for that. It is the game we all know and love (and have work to do towards!) in a way that allows our imaginations to run wild. The team aspect of TGL gives us a rooting interest absent from most events… it is exactly what has been needed for quite some time now.
Shout out to Neal Shipley for helping so many more people realize that.
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR - AUGUST 09: Sebastian Walcott #1 of the Frisco Rough Riders blows a bubble during the game between the Frisco RoughRiders and the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park on Saturday, August 9, 2025 in North Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by Braeden Botts/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rangers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Folks, there’s a guy in the Texas Rangers’ organization from the Bahamas that you may have heard of. His name is Sebastian Walcott. He is 19 years old and plays shortstop.
Now, you may be saying to yourself, a baseball player from the Bahamas? Get out of here with your crazy self. They don’t play baseball in the Bahamas!
However, you’d be wrong. They do play baseball there! Granted, there’s not a lot of players in MLB history from the Bahamas — just nine of them, in fact. Someone named Andre Rodgers is the player from the Bahamas with the longest career, playing 854 games from 1957-67. Jazz Chisholm, Jr. is second, at 579 games.
Third is Ed Armbrister. He is best known for a World Series bunt where he maybe should have been called for interfering with Carlton Fisk, but wasn’t, in the bottom of the tenth inning of Game 3 in 1975. It led to Joe Morgan hitting a walkoff single off of Roger Moret for a Reds victory. Had he been called for interference, maybe the Reds don’t score that inning, the Red Sox end up winning, and Carlton Fisk’s legendary Game 6 home run would have won the series for Boston and spared us 30+ years of “Curse of the Bambino” nonsense and a terrible Jimmy Fallon movie.
Anyway, Sebastian Walcott will almost certainly be the tenth. A consensus top 20 prospect in MLB who was solid if unspectacular at AA last year (though solid if unspectacular at AA at age 19 is pretty damn good), Walcott likely will be starting the season at AAA Round Rock. He played some third base as well as shortstop at AA last year, and I expect him to do the same in 2026 for the Express, with maybe some corner outfield mixed in.
Which leads us to today’s question…when do you believe Sebastian Walcott will make his major league debut?
The Philadelphia 76ers are set to host the New York Knicks as the two teams meet for the fourth time this season.
Re-invigorated at home and playing with a rest advantage, my Knicks vs. 76ers predictions call for Tyrese Maxey to get teammates involved as the home team covers a small spread.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this Eastern Conference tilt on Wednesday, February 11.
Knicks vs 76ers prediction
Knicks vs 76ers best bet: Tyrese Maxey Over 6.5 assists (-115)
Tyrese Maxey’s playmaking will be on full display against the New York Knicks, who are playing the second leg of a back-to-back. The Knicks have surrendered 115 points per game without rest, giving up at least 124 points on four occasions.
With OG Anunoby out and four of five starters logging at least 38 minutes last night, the Knicks' defense is extremely vulnerable. Maxey has recorded 7+ assists in seven of his last eight home games, with the Philadelphia 76ers' point guard averaging 8.0 assists in those contests.
Knicks vs 76ers same-game parlay
New York fell to the Indiana Pacers in overtime last night as 11.5-point home favorites, giving the Sixers a rest advantage after returning home from a five-game road trip.
Joel Embiid has averaged 33.1 points over his last 10 games, reaching 30+ points in eight of them. He’s poised for a big night against a fatigued Knicks defense.
Knicks vs 76ers SGP
Tyrese Maxey Over 7.5 assists
76ers -2.5
Joel Embiid Over 29.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Next Man Up
Considering Anunoby and Miles McBride are sidelined for New York, forward Mohamed Diawara is set for increased playing time.
In seven games where he’s logged 15+ minutes, Diawara has averaged 7.9 points, reaching at least five points in five of those contests.
Knicks vs 76ers SGP
Tyrese Maxey Over 7.5 assists
76ers -2.5
Joel Embiid Over 29.5 points
Mohamed Diawara Over 4.5 points
Knicks vs 76ers odds
Spread: Knicks +2.5 (-115) | 76ers -2.5 (-115)
Moneyline: Knicks +115 | 76ers -135
Over/Under: Over 224.5 (-110) | Under 224.5 (-110)
Knicks vs 76ers betting trend to know
Philadelphia has covered the 2Q spread in 33 of its last 50 games (+15.35 Units / 26% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. 76ers.
How to watch Knicks vs 76ers
Location
Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA
Date
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Knicks vs 76ers latest injuries
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A convincing fake 7-Zip website is distributing a trojanized installer that quietly enrolls infected PCs into a residential proxy network without obvious warning signs.
Discord recently announced its age verification system, which would set all current user accounts to a teen-appropriate account mode by default unless the user's age is verified by an inference model or by submitting a selfie video or government ID. The backlash in online circles was notable, with some decrying the move because of privacy concerns after Discord's age verification partner already suffered a leak in October 2025. The announcement also reportedly resulted in a surge in searches for alternatives to the platform.
According to Google Trends search analytics, the search volumes for "Discord alternative" skyrocketed immediately after the announcement of the new age verification policy on February 9. Popular related searches also show a rise in search popularity for alternatives like Matrix, Root, Stoat (previously Revolt), Ventrilo, and even TeamSpeak, while a post in r/pcmasterrace on Reddit suggesting that gamers need a "proper Discord alternative" has 16,000 upvotes and over 2,000 comments, with most commenters in agreement, and many suggesting Stoat for its open-source development. Others have chimed in lamenting not only the age verification requirements but also the decline in quality of Discord and the aggressive monetization that has become popular on Discord lately.
NVIDIA released a hotfix version 11.0.6.386 for its app that addresses a serious issue where users were unable to access advanced Optimus MUX switch options. These options were reportedly grayed out during random MUX switch scenarios. As a reminder, NVIDIA Optimus technology is designed to switch between integrated and dedicated graphics within the system to conserve power. This feature is not used on desktop systems but on laptop PCs that have an iGPU from an Intel or AMD processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GPU. During light workloads, such as basic image display, the iGPU is used, which saves laptop battery due to its low power consumption. However, when demanding graphics tasks are running, NVIDIA uses a MUX switch to activate its dedicated GPU for heavier workloads. In the previous NVIDIA app version, users reported that some advanced Optimus MUX switch options were "grayed out" during random MUX switch scenarios. The issue has now been isolated, and users can either update the NVIDIA app from the software itself or download it from the link below, which is a direct link to NVIDIA's .exe file.
Maryland is planning as if that timeline could be close enough to matter. Gov. Wes Moore calls quantum computing a "lighthouse industry" and has backed a Capital of Quantum initiative centered on the University of Maryland's Discovery District in College Park, not far from IonQ's warehouse-turned-lab.
The Vape Synth is a project from a trio who call themselves Paper Bag Team. Kari Love and David Rios are professors at NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program, while Shuang Cai is a PhD student at Cornell who also teaches at both universities.
docs2excel.ai uses AI to extract custom data points or full tables from documents and convert them into Excel. No complex setup is required; just upload your documents and download the results. It is great for invoices, receipts, bank statements, and purchase orders, as well as resumes and research papers. Privacy is a priority: your files are processed only to deliver the service. They are never stored, sold, or used to train AI models.
A minor ankle scrape during a New Year’s vacation to the Bahamas nearly cost a Florida man his life, serving as a stark reminder for cruise passengers wanting to swim with the pigs in The Bahamas.
(Photo courtesy of Pixabay/larsen9236)
Brian Roush, 62, of Fort Lauderdale, tripped and scraped his ankle while celebrating with his girlfriend in the Bahamas.
The injury seemed minor. He continued swimming with pigs and enjoying waterslides.
But within hours of returning home on January 3, he became violently ill and was rushed to the hospital with necrotizing fasciitis, commonly known as flesh-eating disease.
Necrotizing fasciitis affects about 0.4 per 100,000 people annually in the United States, making it rare but deadly.
Overall mortality risk is 12.6%, though doctors gave Roush just a 10% chance of survival, according to a GoFundMe established by his daughter to help with medical costs.
The infection moved rapidly. His ankle erupted in blisters, and he went into septic shock requiring emergency surgery to remove diseased tissue.
Roush survived after a week on life support and is now relearning to walk.
A Cautionary Tale for Cruise Passengers
Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas presents unique infection risks beyond typical beach activities. The CDC warns that Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warmer waters, especially during summer months, and can cause necrotizing skin and soft tissue infection when open wounds are exposed to salt water or brackish water.
The presence of pigs in the water creates additional concerns. Water polluted from swine can be contaminated with parasites and bacteria such as giardia, salmonella, and pathogenic E. coli that could be transmitted to humans.
For the thousands of cruise passengers who book this popular excursion daily, medical experts stress that you should stay out of the water if you have an open cut or wound.
Vibrio vulnificus bacteria can grow in waters warmer than 55°F and thrive above 68°F, conditions common in Bahamian waters year-round.
The news comes after a story Cruise News Today covered last year following a woman’s six-year health battle after swimming with the pigs during an excursion.
Swimming with pigs remains one of the most popular shore excursions for cruise passengers visiting the Bahamas, with tours departing from Nassau, Freeport, Celebration Key, and other cruise line private destinations including Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay and MSC’s Ocean Cay.
AirAsia X has announced a new international route linking Kuala Lumpur to London’s Gatwick airport via Bahrain, in the latest step in the budget airline’s global expansion. The service, set to commence in June, would […]
JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU) and United Airlines (Nasdaq: UAL) announced the rollout of the next major customer benefit from their Blue Sky collaboration: beginning this week, travelers can start to purchase eligible itineraries operated by either […]
A private island in the Bahamas previously linked to international music star Shakira has been listed for sale for approximately €25 million, bringing a long-dormant luxury development project back into the spotlight in the Caribbean […]
German unions have called on Lufthansa staff to stage a full-day strike on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, a move expected to trigger widespread flight cancellations and delays at airports across the country, including northern gateways […]
A passenger ferry in Venice lost control on February 10, 2026, and crashed into two tourist gondolas on the Grand Canal near the Rialto Bridge, throwing several passengers into the water after what authorities described […]
Grenada’s True Blue Bay stands at the forefront of a transformative phase in tourism development. The destination’s premier waterfront area now hosts a landmark seventy-room hotel project, ONE True Blue Beach Hotel and Residences, which has received official approval under the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. This initiative positions Grenada tourism for substantial growth by introducing modern accommodations that cater to international visitors seeking luxury amid natural beauty.
Project Approval Marks Milestone
The Grenada government formalized the status of the ONE True Blue Beach Hotel and Residences through a notice in its official gazette. Developer Golden Coast Ltd. spearheads the venture at 1 True Blue Beach in St. George, making it the first such project endorsed during the current administration. This approval underscores Grenada’s commitment to expanding tourism offerings, directly impacting visitor numbers by providing high-end options near key attractions.
Located on the south coast, the development enhances accessibility for travelers arriving at Maurice Bishop International Airport, just minutes away. True Blue Bay benefits from its proximity to St. George’s University and the iconic Grand Anse Beach, drawing families, students, and leisure seekers. The project’s timeline targets a 2027 opening, aligning with rising demand for Grenada tourism experiences that blend waterfront serenity with cultural immersion.
Strategic Location Fuels Tourism Growth
True Blue Bay in Grenada emerges as a hub for tourism innovation, surrounded by unspoiled landscapes and marine access. The new hotel will feature residences alongside guest rooms, appealing to long-term stays and investment-driven visitors. This setup promises to elevate tourism revenue, as CBI participants often contribute to local economies through sustained patronage.
Government records highlight Grenada’s CBI program generating approximately ECD five hundred million in 2024 alone, signaling robust financial backing for such projects. The infusion supports infrastructure upgrades, positively impacting tourism by improving service quality and visitor satisfaction. Bold expansions like this one in True Blue Bay ensure Grenada remains competitive in the Caribbean tourism landscape, attracting divers, wellness enthusiasts, and eco-travelers.
Sustainability Drives Tourism Appeal
Grenada tourism thrives on its reputation for environmentally conscious developments, and the True Blue Bay project aligns seamlessly. Existing resorts in the area emphasize climate-smart designs, yoga studios amid treetops, and regenerative practices that preserve the island’s ecosystems. The incoming hotel will likely amplify these efforts, drawing sustainable tourism advocates who prioritize low-impact luxury.
This focus mitigates environmental strain while boosting tourism appeal globally. Visitors gain guilt-free indulgence options, surrounded by Grenada’s lush hillsides and vibrant marine life. Such initiatives position True Blue Bay as a model for Caribbean tourism, where growth harmonizes with nature conservation, ultimately increasing repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.
Economic Ripple Effects on Tourism
The CBI approval injects vitality into Grenada’stourism sector, creating jobs in construction, hospitality, and ancillary services. Local communities near True Blue Bay stand to gain from employment opportunities, fostering economic stability that indirectly enhances tourism experiences through better-trained staff and improved amenities.
In 2024, CBI funds underscored Grenada’s economic resilience, paving the way for projects that sustain tourism momentum into 2027 and beyond. This development elevates St. George’s parish as a tourism hotspot, with easy access to supermarkets, banks, and dining. The result: a more vibrant ecosystem that encourages longer stays and higher spending, profoundly impacting Grenada tourism metrics.
Enhanced Visitor Infrastructure
True Blue Bay’s evolution includes marina access and infinity pool facilities, complementing Grenada’s adventure offerings like scuba diving and beach excursions. Electric shuttles to Grand Anse and BBC beaches streamline logistics, making tourism seamless for families and groups. These enhancements will draw international crowds, solidifying Grenada as a top tourism destination.
Proximity to educational institutions adds appeal for academic travelers, blending leisure with purpose. Tourism authorities promote such integrated developments to showcase Grenada’s south coast allure, ensuring broad demographic reach. The project’s scale promises a ripple effect, uplifting nearby properties and spurring further tourism investments.
Tourism Trends and Future Outlook
Grenada tourism anticipates a surge from boutique expansions like ONE True Blue Beach Hotel, targeting eco-luxury segments. Wellness programs, including yoga and nature immersion, resonate with post-pandemic travelers seeking restorative escapes. This positions True Blue Bay favorably against regional competitors, heightening tourism inflows.
Government oversight via the CBI framework guarantees quality standards, reassuring investors and guests alike. By 2027, the hotel’s debut will coincide with Grenada’s maturing tourism portfolio, amplified by digital visa innovations and sustainable campaigns. True Blue Bay thus catalyzes long-term tourism prosperity, embedding Grenada in global travel narratives.
Broader Caribbean Tourism Impact
While rooted in Grenada, the True Blue Bay project influences wider Caribbean tourism dynamics. It exemplifies how CBI mechanisms fund resilient infrastructure, countering climate challenges while promoting cultural exchanges. Tourism stakeholders in Grenada leverage this to market authentic experiences, from hillside villas to waterfront dining.
The development fosters partnerships with local ecosystems, ensuring tourism benefits communities equitably. Vibrant, colorful architecture in True Blue Bay captures social media attention, virally promoting Grenada tourism worldwide. This organic buzz guarantees packed occupancy post-launch, redefining south coast tourism.
Tourism Transformation
Grenada’s True Blue Bay heralds an era of elevated tourism through the approved seventy-room hotel venture. Official endorsements affirm its viability, projecting profound impacts on visitor economies and experiences by 2027. As tourism infrastructure strengthens, Grenada solidifies its spice island legacy, inviting the world to its shores.
Chicago’s travel and tourism industry reported a historic surge in 2025, driven overwhelmingly by domestic leisure travel that helped the city’s hotel sector defy national trends and break records. Data from Choose Chicago, the city’s official tourism agency, show that while the broader U.S. hotel market struggled, Chicago’s hotel room demand climbed by 2.3 % over 2024, with 8.2 million room nights sold — the highest ever recorded for leisure stays in a single year. This remarkable performance underscores Chicago’s enduring appeal as a top travel destination in the United States.
Unlike the national market, which saw a 0.5 % decline in hotel demand, Chicago’s leisure tourism sector grew even amid economic and geopolitical headwinds. Choose Chicago’s leadership highlighted that tourism and events remain critical economic drivers for the city, supporting more than 130,000 jobs and generating over $20 billion annually in economic impact for Chicago’s diverse neighbourhoods and hospitality ecosystem.
Domestic Travel Takes the Lead While Chicago Hosts Unforgettable Experiences
Resilient domestic travel demand propelled Chicago’s sector forward even as global tourism faced uncertainty. Choose Chicago’s CEO noted that the city’s leisure travel broke records, led by major attractions and high‑profile events that drew visitors from across the country. Among these were large concerts and cultural gatherings that delivered strong revenue — including a performance by a major K‑pop group that reportedly outpaced previous record‑setting acts in terms of influence on hotel bookings, and Chicago’s first ever live broadcast of a national New Year’s Eve celebration, which fueled record hotel occupancy during the holiday season.
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasised that Chicago’s rich mix of culture, festivals, architecture, and neighbourhood stories helps shape a positive travel image that many visitors experience firsthand. State leaders echoed this sentiment, noting that outside perceptions of the city’s challenges often contrast sharply with visitors’ lived experiences once they arrive.
Why Chicago’s Tourism Success Matters for the City’s Economy
Tourism in Chicago is much more than leisure travel; it is a cornerstone of the local economy. The hotel demand surge reflects a broader rebound in hospitality and service sectors, which had been under pressure in the preceding years. The estimated $20 billion impact from travel flows reinforces not only business investment but also the livelihoods of workers in hotels, restaurants, cultural institutions, transportation stations, and entertainment venues that form the backbone of Chicago’s travel ecosystem.
Choose Chicago’s data show that the city secured 65 future conventions in 2025 — surpassing its target of 49 — highlighting continued confidence among business and association planners who see Chicago as a premier host city for large gatherings. This momentum underscores the city’s broader travel strategy that includes promoting its unique neighbourhoods, cultural attractions, and global events to compete with other major destinations such as Las Vegas and Orlando.
Record Summer Tourism: Hotels and Events Spark Growth
The tourism recovery in Chicago was especially noticeable during the summer months of 2025. Hotel metrics from June through August show that properties across the city’s central business district filled more than 3.56 million room nights, a record volume that surpassed previous all‑time summer demand figures. This spike translated to nearly $949 million in hotel revenue, marking the busiest summer season since before the pandemic era.
These gains were boosted by a dynamic blend of festivals, conventions, sporting events and cultural showcases, attracting visitors of all ages. The summer data also highlighted multiple high‑volume weekends, with leisure travellers driving occupancy peaks, reinforcing that Chicago has reclaimed its status as a major urban destination that draws visitors year‑round.
Challenges and Future Travel Plans for International Growth
Despite Chicago’s strong performance with domestic travellers, the broader U.S. tourism industry faces challenges in attracting international visitors. Nationally proposed changes to entry requirements, such as requests for extended personal information for the Visa Waiver Program, could discourage international travel — a trend that may impact future demand if not addressed. Studies suggest that such policies could result in millions fewer visitors and billions in lost travel revenue across the U.S. travel economy.
In response, Choose Chicago has outlined plans to expand its reach into emerging international markets in 2026, guided by strategic marketing campaigns and efforts to enhance Chicago’s global travel appeal. Upcoming celebrations tied to the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the United States’ 250th anniversary are expected to offer additional opportunities to attract foreign visitors and diversify the city’s tourism base.
Strategic Investments and Tourism Initiatives for Long‑Term Growth
To build on its momentum, Chicago is exploring new funding strategies that would enable more robust destination promotion. A proposed 1.5 % increase to the city’s hotel assessment fee — part of the 17.5 % hotel tax — could generate approximately $40 million annually to support Choose Chicago’s marketing efforts, particularly for convention recruitment and international outreach. This potential influx of funds is expected to strengthen Chicago’s competitive edge among top global tourism hubs.
Chicago’s tourism strategy also includes cultural storytelling projects that bring local experiences to life, such as a podcast launched to highlight the city’s authenticity and charm. These initiatives aim to deepen visitors’ engagement with Chicago’s neighbourhoods and communities, helping to drive repeat travel and local investment.
Conclusion: Chicago Travel Soars in 2025 and Sets Stage for Future Growth
As Chicago continues to recover and evolve its tourism industry, the record hotel demand and leisure travel surge in 2025 stands as a powerful testament to the city’s resilience and appeal. Despite national and global challenges in the travel sector, Chicago’s reputation as a must‑visit destination has once again generated economic activity, supported jobs, and energized its cultural landscape. With strategic plans in place to expand international reach and enhance visitor experiences, Chicago’s travel future looks poised for sustained success in 2026 and beyond.
Pennsylvania Overtakes California, New Jersey, Florida, Georgia and More US States Gearing to Host FIFA World Cup, Super Bowls,NCAA Final Four, Kentucky Derby, Supercharging Travel Landscape Injecting Billions in Tourism Economy, New Research Findings on American Sports
In an unprecedented shift, Pennsylvania has now overtaken California, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia as a leading destination for global sports tourism. With landmark events like the FIFA World Cup, Super Bowls, NCAA Final Four, and the iconic Kentucky Derby heading to various states, Pennsylvania is set to shine brighter than ever. These sports spectacles are supercharging the US travel landscape, injecting billions of dollars into the US tourism economy.
As new research reveals, the impact of these events will not only drive massive visitor influxes but will also shape the long-term growth of US tourism. Pennsylvania, alongside states like California, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia, is capitalizing on this golden opportunity to bring tourists, sports fans, and cultural enthusiasts together like never before.
But Pennsylvania’s rise is particularly significant, with major sports events poised to attract millions of visitors, creating a ripple effect across its tourism industry. As the state braces for this massive influx, tourism boards and local governments are working tirelessly to ensure this sports-driven tourism revolution will benefit local communities. Don’t miss out on how this sports tourism boom is reshaping the US tourism economy—keep reading to find out more
The USA’s Ultimate Sports Spectacle: A Tourism Machine in Full Gear for 2026-2027
The US tourism sector is gearing up for an unprecedented boom in 2026 and 2027, driven by a series of globally celebrated sports events that will captivate millions of visitors. The USA tourism industry is on the brink of a massive transformation, with events like the FIFA World Cup, Super Bowls, the NCAA Final Four, and iconic races like the Kentucky Derby poised to inject billions into local economies.
Every state in the US is preparing to roll out the red carpet, showcasing its unique culture, vibrant landscapes, and world-class hospitality to an influx of international visitors. This US tourism surge promises to redefine the travel landscape for years to come.
Pennsylvania Gears Up for The Great American Getaway 400: A Major Boost for Tourism
Pennsylvania is once again revving its engines for The Great American Getaway 400, which is returning to Pocono Raceway on Sunday, June 14. This marks the third consecutive year that Governor Josh Shapiro has renewed the partnership between his administration and Pocono Raceway, demonstrating a strong commitment to growing the state’s tourism industry, as highlighted in a recent press release from the governor’s office.
The event, one of NASCAR’s premier races, will be part of a NASCAR tripleheader weekend, attracting racing fans and drawing global attention to Pennsylvania. Pocono Raceway has been a staple of the state’s tourism since hosting its first NASCAR race back in 1971. Over the years, The Great American Getaway 400 has become an iconic event, with a significant economic impact. Officials estimate that the race generates between $75 million to $100 million annually for the state, drawing visitors from all 50 states and more than a dozen countries. These visitors bring business to local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses across the region.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the importance of this race, saying, “The famous ‘Tricky Triangle’ has drawn fans from around the world to the Poconos for more than 50 years, providing a huge economic jolt for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses in the region. This event showcases everything that makes Pennsylvania a top-tier destination for visitors in 2026.”
The year 2026 is significant for Pennsylvania as it marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. Along with the Great American Getaway 400, the state will host other major events, including the NFL Draft and FIFA World Cup matches, bringing millions of visitors to the region. Governor Shapiro expressed excitement about welcoming millions of visitors and showcasing Pennsylvania as The Great American Getaway.
Pennsylvania Overtakes California, New Jersey, Florida, Georgia and More US States Gearing to Host FIFA World Cup, Super Bowls,NCAA Final Four, Kentucky Derby, Supercharging Travel Landscape Injecting Billions in Tourism Economy, New Research Findings on American Sports
The 160-lap, 400-mile race will be broadcast live nationally on Amazon Prime Video, and it will reach more than 195 countries through NASCAR’s international television partners. The race, which starts at 3 p.m. ET, will also be available on Motor Racing Network (MRN) and SiriusXM, giving Pennsylvania a global stage. NASCAR’s international reach will ensure that the event brings Pennsylvania to millions of viewers, boosting the state’s tourism and global recognition.
Pennsylvania continues to be a top destination for visitors, especially those from major East Coast cities like New York City, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. The state’s proximity to these urban hubs, combined with its array of attractions — including small towns, historical sites, world-class dining, and outdoor recreation — makes it an ideal weekend getaway. Nearly 72 million people live within a four-hour drive of the state, making it an accessible and appealing destination.
The Great American Getaway 400 is more than just a race; it’s a driving force for the state’s economy. Anne Ryan, Deputy Secretary of Tourism at the Department of Community and Economic Development, said, “This event showcases exactly why Pennsylvania is a must-visit destination. It drives real economic impact, supports local businesses, and creates momentum that lasts long after the checkered flag drops.”
Tourism has been a key pillar of Governor Shapiro’s economic development strategy. In 2024, Pennsylvania’s tourism industry generated $83.9 billion in economic impact, supported over 514,000 jobs, and welcomed 201.6 million visitors. Shapiro views tourism not just as a seasonal industry but as a long-term economic growth engine for communities across the state.
State
Event(s)
Date & Year
Location/City & Venue
Notes
California
FIFA World Cup 2026 (San Francisco Bay Area & Los Angeles)
Bay Area host committee will welcome matches featuring Qatar, Switzerland, Austria, Jordan, Paraguay, Australia and others; includes a Round of 32 match[1]. Los Angeles will host eight matches including the U.S. Men’s National Team opener on 12 Jun, group games, two Round‑of‑32 matches and a quarter‑final[2].
California
Super Bowl LX & LXI
Super Bowl LX on 8 Feb 2026; Super Bowl LXI on early 2027
California will host back‑to‑back Super Bowls. Governor’s office announced that Super Bowl LX (2026) at Levi’s Stadium will bring massive economic impact and thousands of visitors[3]. Super Bowl LXI (2027) at SoFi Stadium continues the run of mega‑events[3].
California
U.S. Open Golf (2027)
17–20 Jun 2027
Pebble Beach Golf Links, Pebble Beach
USGA future sites page lists Pebble Beach, CA as host of the 2027 U.S. Open[4].
Pennsylvania
MLB All‑Star Game 2026
14 Jul 2026 (week of events)
Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
Philadelphia will host the 2026 MLB All‑Star Game coinciding with America’s 250th birthday; events include Home Run Derby, Futures Game and community activities[5].
Pennsylvania
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches
14 Jun–4 Jul 2026
Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Stadium)
Philadelphia will host six matches: Côte d’Ivoire vs Ecuador (14 Jun), Brazil vs Haiti (19 Jun), France vs Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname (22 Jun), Curaçao vs Côte d’Ivoire (25 Jun), Croatia vs Ghana (27 Jun), and a Round of 16 match on 4 Jul[6].
Pennsylvania
PGA Championship 2026
11–17 May 2026
Aronimink Golf Club, Newtown Square
PGA of America lists Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania as the venue for the 2026 PGA Championship[7].
Illinois
MLB All‑Star Game 2027
13 Jul 2027
Wrigley Field, Chicago
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced Chicago’s Wrigley Field will host the 2027 All‑Star Game[8].
Indiana
NCAA Men’s Final Four 2026
4–6 Apr 2026
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
NCAA notes that the 2026 Division I Men’s Final Four will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 4 & 6, 2026[9].
Indiana
Indianapolis 500 (2026)
12–24 May 2026 (Race Day 24 May)
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis Motor Speedway lists the 2026 Indy 500 events spanning May 12‑24, 2026 with race day on May 24[10].
Michigan
NCAA Men’s Final Four 2027
3–5 Apr 2027
Ford Field, Detroit
NCAA future sites page lists Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan as host of the 2027 Men’s Final Four[9].
Ohio
NCAA Women’s Final Four 2027
2–4 Apr 2027
Nationwide Arena, Columbus
The NCAA Women’s Final Four future sites page states that Columbus, Ohio will host the 2027 Women’s Final Four at Nationwide Arena[11].
Florida
College Football Playoff National Championship 2026 & Daytona 500
CFP Championship on 19 Jan 2026; Daytona 500 on 15 Feb 2026 and 21 Feb 2027
Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens) for CFP; Daytona International Speedway for Daytona 500
The Miami Host Committee states that the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship will be played at Hard Rock Stadium on Jan 19, 2026[12]. Daytona International Speedway lists the 2026 Daytona 500 on Feb 15, 2026 at 2:30 pm and a press release announces the 69th running on Feb 21, 2027[13][14].
Florida
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Miami)
15 Jun–18 Jul 2026
Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens
Miami will host group stage matches (15, 21, 24, 27 Jun), a Round of 32 on Jul 3, a Quarter‑final on Jul 11, and the bronze final on Jul 18[15].
Nevada
College Football Playoff National Championship 2027
25 Jan 2027
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Allegiant Stadium’s event page notes that Las Vegas will host the 2027 CFP National Championship on Jan 25, 2027[16], and Visit Las Vegas affirms the same date[17].
Kentucky
Kentucky Derby (2026 & 2027)
2 May 2026; 1 May 2027 (first Saturday in May)
Churchill Downs, Louisville
The official Kentucky Derby site lists the 152nd Derby on May 2, 2026[18] and notes that the Derby is held annually on the first Saturday in May[19], which places the 2027 Derby on May 1, 2027.
Alaska
Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race (2026 ceremonial start)
7 Mar 2026
Anchorage (ceremonial start) to Willow and Nome
The Bureau of Land Management notes that the ceremonial start of the Iditarod will take place at Campbell Tract in Anchorage on Mar 7, 2026[20]. Alaska tourism site notes that the restart occurs on Mar 8 in Willow with mushers traveling nearly 1,000 miles to Nome[21].
Texas
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Houston & Dallas) and PGA Championship 2027
Harris County–Houston Sports Authority states that Houston will host seven matches (five group games, a Round of 32 and a Round of 16) between Jun 14 and Jul 4, 2026[22]. The Dallas host committee notes that Dallas Stadium will host nine matches including five group games, two Round of 32 games, one Round of 16 game and a semi‑final on Jul 14[23]. PGA of America lists PGA Frisco in Texas as host of the 2027 PGA Championship[24].
New York / New Jersey
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (including final)
13 Jun–19 Jul 2026
MetLife Stadium (New York New Jersey Stadium)
The NYNJ host committee reports that the region will host eight matches: five group stage games on Jun 13, 16, 22, 25 and 27; a Round of 32 match on Jun 30; a Round of 16 match on Jul 5; and the tournament final on Jul 19[25].
Washington
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Seattle)
15 Jun–6 Jul 2026
Lumen Field, Seattle
Washington’s tourism site lists Seattle matches: Belgium vs Egypt on Jun 15, USA vs Australia on Jun 19, Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales/Bosnia vs Qatar on Jun 24, Egypt vs Iran on Jun 26, plus Round of 32 (Jul 1) and Round of 16 (Jul 6) matches[26].
Massachusetts
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Boston)
13 Jun–9 Jul 2026
Gillette Stadium (Boston Stadium), Foxborough
Boston host committee site lists match schedule: Haiti vs Scotland (13 Jun), IRQ/BOL/SUR vs Norway (16 Jun), Scotland vs Morocco (19 Jun), England vs Ghana (23 Jun), Norway vs France (26 Jun), a Round of 32 on Jun 29 and a quarter‑final on Jul 9[27].
Georgia
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Atlanta)
15 Jun–15 Jul 2026
Atlanta Stadium (Mercedes‑Benz Stadium)
Discover Atlanta’s press release notes that Atlanta will host eight matches: Spain vs Cape Verde (15 Jun), Denmark/Macedonia/Czech/Ireland vs South Africa (18 Jun), Spain vs Saudi Arabia (21 Jun), Morocco vs Haiti (24 Jun), DR Congo/Jamaica/Northern Cycles vs Uzbekistan (27 Jun), Round of 32 (Jul 1), Round of 16 (Jul 7) and a semi‑final on Jul 15[28].
Missouri (Kansas City)
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Kansas City)
16 Jun–11 Jul 2026
Kansas City Stadium (GEHA Field at Arrowhead)
Kansas City’s host committee notes that the city will welcome Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Curaçao, Ecuador, Netherlands and Tunisia and host matches: Argentina vs Algeria (16 Jun), Ecuador vs Curaçao (20 Jun), Tunisia vs Netherlands (25 Jun), Algeria vs Austria (27 Jun), Round of 32 on Jul 3 and a Quarter‑final on Jul 11[29].
Texas (Houston)
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Houston)
14 Jun–4 Jul 2026
NRG Stadium, Houston
The Harris County–Houston Sports Authority states that Houston will host seven matches: five group stage matches, a Round of 32, and a Round of 16 between Jun 14 and Jul 4[22].
California (Los Angeles)
FIFA World Cup 2026 matches (Los Angeles)
12 Jun–10 Jul 2026
Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium)
SoFi Stadium’s press release states Los Angeles will host eight matches including the U.S. Men’s National Team opening match vs Paraguay on Jun 12, group matches vs Iran, Switzerland, Belgium and the US or Turkey group winners, plus two Round of 32 matches and a quarter‑final[2].
California: Super Bowl, World Cup, and the X Games – A Golden Surge for Tourism
In California, the state’s tourism industry is about to experience a golden surge as Super Bowl LX and World Cup 2026 matches at Levi’s Stadium and SoFi Stadium grab global attention. With Governor Gavin Newsom’s office projecting billions in visitor spending, California will not just showcase its beaches and mountains but will highlight its diversity and Olympic legacy, creating an unforgettable experience for tourists.
In addition to Super Bowls LX and LXI, Los Angeles will be home to eight World Cup matches, and the 2027 U.S. Open will take place at the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Links. The state’s attractions, from the glitz of Hollywood to the rugged beauty of the Pacific Coast, are set to host tourists from every corner of the globe.
New York & New Jersey: Hosting the World Cup Final – A Historic Event for East Coast Tourism
The East Coast is buzzing with excitement, as New York and New Jersey gear up to host the 2026 World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium. With over 1.2 million visitors expected, the US tourism sector in this region is preparing for its biggest moment. The final match, scheduled for 19 July 2026, is expected to be the crowning glory of East Coast tourism, bringing in massive fan engagement and a surge in spending.
Local officials are already planning fan festivals along the Hudson River and are working tirelessly to enhance transport infrastructure to ensure smooth access for the expected flood of fans. With events scheduled from June 13-30, this tourism powerhouse will be working overtime to cater to millions of soccer fans and tourists.
Texas Two-Step: Dallas and Houston – A Dual Force for World Cup Glory and Golf Prestige
Texas is set to become the epicenter of World Cup 2026 action, with Dallas and Houston hosting more matches than any other state. Dallas’ AT&T Stadium will feature marquee matchups, including a semi-final, while Houston’s NRG Stadium will host the Round of 32 and Round of 16. Texas tourism officials are already anticipating an influx of global fans who will indulge in Texas hospitality while also experiencing world-class sports action.
In addition to soccer, Texas will shine on the international stage with the 2027 PGA Championship set to take place at the new PGA Frisco headquarters. The Texan tourism industry will experience an exponential growth curve, as travelers flock to experience the state’s rich culture, fine dining, and incredible landscapes.
Florida’s Sunshine Surge: World Cup, Daytona 500, and College Football Showdowns
Florida will be a major player in both World Cup 2026 and Formula 1. Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium will host multiple World Cup group matches, while Daytona 500 fans will flock to the famous Daytona International Speedway for a thrilling motorsport experience. The state will also see the return of College Football Playoffs in January 2026, with the national championship set for Hard Rock Stadium.
As tourists travel to Florida for World Cup matches and races, the state’s famous beaches and theme parks are preparing for a tourism boom that will further cement Florida as a must-visit destination in the US tourism sector.
Georgia and Philadelphia: The Powerhouses of Global Sports Tourism
Atlanta’s Mercedes Benz Stadium will serve as a key venue for World Cup 2026, hosting games featuring teams like Spain and Morocco. Georgia’s tourism sector is already preparing for a surge in visitors, highlighting the state’s rich civil rights history and delicious southern cuisine as part of the tourist experience. Local officials are designing special packages that will combine World Cup games with tours of Savannah, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Georgia’s musical heritage.
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, Lincoln Financial Field will host six World Cup matches. The city is also preparing for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. As Pennsylvania’s tourism industry gears up, officials are emphasizing the state’s history, from the Liberty Bell to its modern sports culture.
The US Tourism Growth Story: Cross-State Collaboration and Lasting Impact
The US tourism boom will not just be confined to stadium gates; it will spill over into every corner of the country. States are working together to create seamless travel experiences for fans, including regional packages and cross-state itineraries. The Northeast Corridor, for example, is promoting rail trips from Boston to New York to Philadelphia, while Texas and the Midwest are coordinating flights and bus services to ensure a smooth journey for fans traveling between matches. This inter-state collaboration demonstrates how sports tourism is a driving force for infrastructure investment and long-term tourism growth.
The US Tourism Industry’s Bold Bet on Legacy
The US tourism sector is betting big that these global sporting events will not only generate massive short-term gains but also create long-term tourism growth. Beyond the stadiums and racetracks, tourism officials are working hard to ensure that visitors return to experience the local culture, natural beauty, and unique attractions that make the USA a destination like no other.
This sports tourism strategy hinges on whether the excitement of the FIFA World Cup, Super Bowls, and PGA Championships can translate into repeat visits from travelers seeking to experience more of the US tourism sector.
A Sports-Driven Tourism Revolution
The US tourism sector is on the verge of a massive transformation, fueled by the world’s biggest sports events. From California’s Golden State to New York’s MetLife Stadium, every state is preparing to showcase its unique culture, attractions, and hospitality. With careful planning and collaboration, these global sports spectacles will leave an indelible mark on the US tourism industry, ushering in a new era of growth and legacy.
When residents in Oneida and Madison counties woke up this week, many found themselves at the centre of a significant winter weather advisory — a situation that government weather officials say could make travel hazardous and conditions slippery through early Thursday. Snowfall totals are expected to range broadly as lake effect bands push inland, bringing 2–6 inches of snow in some areas — and potentially more in localized heavier bands. Officials stress that these conditions could make roads hazardous and disrupt typical weekday travel patterns, especially Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.
According to forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) Binghamton office, the advisory remains active until at least 8 a.m. Thursday EST and covers Northern Oneida, Southern Oneida, and Madison counties. Snow will begin Tuesday morning and may mix with light freezing rain or sleet at times due to rising daytime temperatures in the low‑30 °F range. Snow showers will then transition to lake effect snow showers, which are expected to intensify on Wednesday night.
Official Weather Service Advisory: What It Means and Where It Applies
The winter weather advisory — an official warning issued by the United States’ National Weather Service — indicates winter precipitation that’s expected to cause troublesome travel conditions but does not rise to the level of a full storm warning. For central New York, the advisory’s reach includes:
Northern and Southern Oneida County (Rome, Utica, Oneida city areas)
Madison County (Hamilton and surrounding towns)
This combination of snow showers, lake‑effect snow bands and mixed precipitation creates a complex weather setup where snow accumulation and icy road surfaces can come together. The advisory remains active through the early morning hours of Thursday, prompting state and local officials to remind the public that winter conditions will persist beyond the initial snow event.
Snow, Ice and Lake Effect: Multiple Weather Hazards at Play
Unlike a single storm system dumping snow, the current pattern affecting central New York involves a mix of lake‑effect snow showers and cold air passing over open water. This weather phenomenon — common in New York’s inland regions downwind of the Great Lakes — can generate intense snow bands and sudden shifts in snowfall rates. Meteorologists are highlighting several key weather threats:
Snow accumulations of 2–6+ inches in advisory areas
Lake‑effect snow showers likely to intensify during night and early morning hours
Slippery roads and reduced visibility, especially around major travel times
Additionally, light freezing rain or sleet may mix with snow at times — creating ice glaze on untreated surfaces and compounding travel hazards across the forecast zone. The National Weather Service (NWS) has advised residents to expect slower commutes, slick roads, and reduced visibility, particularly during Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.
Travel Impact: Roads, Commutes and Safety Precautions
The combination of snow and ice is expected to significantly affect road conditions throughout the advisory period. State transportation officials and weather forecasters encourage drivers to take winter safety seriously. Major travel impacts likely include:
Slippery and snow‑covered highways and secondary roads
Lowered visibility during snow bands and lake effect squalls
Longer commute times, especially for late‑night or early‑morning travel
The NWS and local authorities recommend precautions such as:
Reducing speed and allowing extra stopping distance
Checking 511 road condition reports before travelling
Equipping vehicles with winter tyres and emergency kits
These steps are essential to avoid collisions and dangerous situations on slippery roadways, officials say.
Public Preparedness: What Residents Should Know
Officials remind residents that even moderate snowfall can create deeply slippery conditions, particularly when temperatures fluctuate around the freezing mark. Ice glaze and snow‑packed roads pose a risk not just for motorists, but also for pedestrians and public infrastructure. Emergency services and transportation departments remain vigilant, with plow crews deployed across Oneida and Madison counties to clear snow and maintain major roads. However, unpredictable lake‑effect bands can quickly cover treated surfaces, requiring continuous attention and caution.
Looking Ahead: Weather Forecast Through the Advisory
As the advisory continues into Thursday, weather outlooks suggest snow showers will taper slightly — but lingering lake effect activity may continue to affect central New York. Overnight lows in the region will keep temperatures cold, slowing any thaw and maintaining slick conditions on untreated roads. Officials encourage residents to stay informed through the National Weather Service website and local government channels, and to prioritise safety over travel until the advisory lifts.
Neighbourhoods Brace for Winter’s Grip
For families in the villages of Oneida, Hamilton, and surrounding central New York communities, this week’s weather doesn’t just mean cold — it means recalibrating daily routines. School buses, commuter traffic and evening plans are all subject to the icy hand of winter. But officials say preparedness and patience remain the best tools against unpredictable seasonal weather. As Thursday morning approaches, residents are urged to stay safe and keep up with local weather messaging — because winter in central New York is still not ready to let go.
Barbados ignites its tourism sector with the upcoming debut of Royalton Vessence Barbados, an adults-only all-inclusive resort under Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Situated on the prestigious Platinum Coast, this two hundred twenty-suite property sets a new benchmark for luxury tourism in Barbados, promising to draw global travelers starting June 2026. The development enhances Barbados tourism by introducing innovative amenities that blend art, wellness, and social experiences, significantly boosting visitor stays and spending.
Resort Opening Accelerates Tourism Momentum
Barbados positions Royalton Vessence as a flagship for modern tourism evolution on its west coast. Official resort channels confirm the June 1, 2026, opening, aligning with peak travel seasons to maximize tourism inflows. This strategic launch impacts Barbados tourism positively by filling a gap in adults-only all-inclusive options, attracting couples and professionals seeking sophisticated escapes.
The Platinum Coast location, mere minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport, streamlines access for international arrivals. Barbados authorities promote such developments to sustain tourism recovery, with the resort’s scale projected to create jobs and elevate local hospitality standards. Enhanced infrastructure like this ensures tourism resilience against seasonal fluctuations.
Adults-Only Design Transforms Tourism Appeal
Royalton Vessence Barbados caters exclusively to adults, redefining tourism dynamics in Barbados. Featuring two hundred twenty luxurious suites with DreamBed mattresses and rain showers, the property emphasizes sensory indulgence that appeals to discerning travelers. This focus sharpens Barbados tourism by targeting high-value segments, increasing average nightly rates and occupancy.
Tourism in Barbados gains from the resort’s integration of local art and contemporary design, fostering cultural immersion without overwhelming tranquility. The adults-only policy curates serene environments, encouraging longer stays that amplify economic contributions to tourism ecosystems. Such tailored offerings position Barbados as a premium tourism haven.
Rooftop and Wellness Features Boost Tourism
A standout panoramic rooftop reimagines social spaces in Barbados tourism. Designed for lingering with Platinum Coast views, it hosts late-night activities that extend guest engagement. This vertical dimension impacts tourism by introducing dynamic nightlife options, differentiating Royalton Vessence from traditional beachfront properties.
Wellness integration via Moddo Fitness programming and hydrotherapy elevates Barbados as a restorative tourism destination. Guests access unlimited classes, spa treatments, and fitness zones, aligning with global health trends that drive tourism demand. These amenities ensure tourism diversification, attracting wellness enthusiasts year-round.
Culinary Excellence Drives Tourism Spending
Royalton Vessence Barbados unveils nine culinary concepts and five bars, enriching tourism experiences in Barbados. Options span Mexican fast-casual to steakhouse and Indian fare, all included in all-inclusive packages. This variety stimulates tourism by encouraging on-site dining exploration, reducing off-property leakage and boosting retention.
Barbados tourism benefits from à la carte freedom and twenty-four-hour room service, appealing to food-centric travelers. Premium top-shelf drinks and island-inspired cocktails enhance perceived value, prompting higher bookings. Culinary innovation thus fortifies tourism revenue streams for the Platinum Coast.
Diamond Club Elevates Luxury Tourism
Exclusive Diamond Club tiers at Royalton Vessence introduce personalized butler service and private lounges, supercharging Barbados tourism. Swim-out suites and Chairman options with plunge pools cater to elite preferences, impacting tourism through upselling opportunities. Marriott Bonvoy affiliation adds loyalty incentives, sustaining repeat tourism visits.
This premium layer positions Barbados competitively in Caribbean tourism, drawing affluent demographics. Enhanced services improve guest satisfaction scores, vital for tourism marketing. Royalton Vessence thereby amplifies Barbados luxury narrative globally.
Platinum Coast Infrastructure Impacts Tourism
Barbados’ Platinum Coast thrives with Royalton Vessence enhancing beachfront access and non-motorized watersports. Proximity to icons like Sandy Lane elevates regional tourism synergy, encouraging multi-property itineraries. Improved facilities directly impact tourism by accommodating growing arrivals.
Tourism authorities in Barbados leverage such projects for sustainable growth, integrating open-air studios for art and entertainment. These creative hubs foster community ties, enriching authentic tourism encounters. The resort’s footprint strengthens Platinum Coast as a tourism epicenter.
All-Inclusive Model Revolutionizes Tourism Economics
The all-inclusive structure at Royalton Vessence Barbados bundles unlimited dining, entertainment, and activities, optimizing tourism value. Rates starting around dollar six hundred seventy-eight per night for junior suites make luxury accessible, spurring Barbados tourism volume. Diamond Club at dollar eight hundred ninety further incentivizes upgrades.
This model disrupts traditional pay-per-service norms, positively impacting tourism predictability for budget-conscious luxury seekers. Barbados gains stable revenue forecasts, enabling reinvestment in tourism marketing. All-inclusive evolution secures long-term tourism dominance.
Sustainability and Future Tourism Outlook
Royalton Vessence embeds eco-conscious practices into Barbados tourism, from energy-efficient designs to local sourcing. These efforts attract sustainable tourism advocates, broadening market reach. Environmental stewardship ensures tourism viability amid climate concerns.
By 2026, Barbados tourism anticipates surges from Royalton Vessence, complementing Marriott’s expanding portfolio. Digital detox lounges and glow-lit pools align with experiential trends, future-proofing tourism appeal. Platinum Coast solidifies as an innovation hub.
Broader Caribbean Tourism Influence
Royalton Vessence Barbados sets precedents for regional tourism, showcasing adults-only all-inclusives with artistic flair. Barbados influences neighbors through Marriott partnerships, elevating collective tourism standards. Cross-promotions amplify visibility.
Tourism stakeholders benefit from shared best practices, enhancing Caribbean competitiveness. Royalton Vessence catalyzes investment, ensuring Barbados leads tourism recovery narratives into 2027 and beyond.
Thousands of passengers stranded in Canada today as 262 total delays and 77 total cancellations hit Toronto Pearson International Airport (109 delays, 17 cancellations) in Toronto, Montreal–Trudeau International Airport (67 delays, 17 cancellations) in Montreal, Vancouver International Airport (40 delays, 1 cancellation) in Vancouver, Quebec/Jean Lesage International Airport (21 delays, 3 cancellations) in Quebec City, Halifax International Airport (18 delays, 11 cancellations) in Halifax, CFB Goose Bay (3 delays, 9 cancellations) in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Kangirsuk Airport (2 delays, 4 cancellations) in Kangirsuk, Deer Lake Regional Airport (2 delays, 3 cancellations) in Deer Lake, Natuashish Airport (6 cancellations) in Natuashish, and Nain Airport (6 cancellations) in Nain. Major hubs such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver led in delay volume, while smaller northern airports including Goose Bay, Natuashish, and Nain showed a cancellation-heavy disruption pattern. The most affected airlines were Air Canada (77 delays, 19 cancellations), WestJet (32 delays, 14 cancellations), PAL Airlines (15 delays, 12 cancellations), and Air Borealis (1 delay, 19 cancellations). Other widely recognized carriers that also experienced disruptions include Jazz (Air Canada Express) (17 delays, 4 cancellations), Air Inuit (13 delays, 4 cancellations), Pacific Coastal Airlines (4 delays, 1 cancellation), and Korean Air (3 delays).
Updated today: Canada recorded 339 total disruptions, including 262 delays and 77 cancellations across ten airports.
Toronto Pearson had the highest delay count with 109 delays.
Montreal–Trudeau matched Toronto in cancellations with 17 flights cancelled.
Vancouver International reported 40 delays but only 1 cancellation.
Air Canada led network-wide delay impact with 77 delays.
Air Borealis had the highest cancellation concentration with 19 cancellations, primarily in northern communities.
PAL Airlines recorded 12 cancellations, largely affecting Atlantic and northern routes.
Remote airports such as Natuashish and Nain experienced 100% cancellation-driven disruption.
Most Affected Canadian Airports
Toronto Pearson International Airport
Toronto recorded 109 delays and 17 cancellations, making it the most delay-impacted airport in Canada during the reporting period. U.S.-linked routes accounted for 44 of the delays.
Montreal–Trudeau International Airport
Montreal logged 67 delays and 17 cancellations, matching Toronto in total cancellations but with lower delay volume.
Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver experienced 40 delays and 1 cancellation, reflecting moderate operational strain but minimal flight cancellations.
Halifax International Airport
Halifax reported 18 delays and 11 cancellations, showing a mixed disruption profile with significant cancellation activity relative to total flights.
Quebec/Jean Lesage International Airport
Quebec City recorded 21 delays and 3 cancellations, placing it among mid-level impacted airports.
CFB Goose Bay
Goose Bay saw 3 delays and 9 cancellations, indicating a cancellation-dominant operational pattern.
Airlines Most Affected by Canada Flight Cancellations and Delays
Air Canada
77 delays and 19 cancellations across major hubs including Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and Vancouver.
WestJet
32 delays and 14 cancellations, with concentrated cancellation impact in Montreal and Halifax.
PAL Airlines
15 delays and 12 cancellations, significantly affecting Atlantic and regional airports.
Air Borealis
1 delay and 19 cancellations, heavily impacting Goose Bay, Natuashish, and Nain.
Jazz (Air Canada Express)
17 delays and 4 cancellations, primarily linked to Montreal and Toronto operations.
Air Inuit
13 delays and 4 cancellations, with disruptions in northern and Quebec-based routes.
What Can Impacted Passengers In Canada Do?
Monitor official airline notifications and airport advisories.
Reconfirm flight status before departure.
Contact airline customer service for rebooking options.
Check eligibility for compensation under Canadian air passenger protection regulations.
Retain receipts for accommodation or meal expenses if applicable.
Arrive early at airports experiencing higher delay volumes.
The latest disruption pattern shows Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver leading in delay counts, while Halifax, Goose Bay, Natuashish, and Nain experienced concentrated cancellations. Major carriers including Air Canada, WestJet, PAL Airlines, Air Borealis, Jazz, and Air Inuit were among the most operationally affected. In major urban centers such as Toronto and Montreal, delays significantly outnumbered cancellations, reflecting congestion and operational slowdowns rather than full flight removals. Meanwhile, in northern communities including Goose Bay, Natuashish, and Nain, disruptions were overwhelmingly cancellation-driven, affecting regional connectivity. Across Canada, the combined total of 262 delays and 77 cancellations underscores operational strain at both large international gateways and smaller remote airports, with national carriers and regional operators contributing to the overall disruption landscape.
Image Source: AI Source: Different airports and FlightAware
Greece now joins the Bahamas, Barbuda, Spain, and Indonesia in showcasing beautiful pink sand beaches, each one offering a unique natural beauty that sets them apart from typical coastal destinations. Known for its stunning landscapes and idyllic beaches, Greece has added to its charm with pink sand beaches, providing travelers with a rare and extraordinary experience. The pink sand, a product of crushed coral, shells, and microscopic organisms mixing with white sand, creates a magical setting that’s unlike any other. Alongside renowned locations in the Bahamas, Barbuda, Spain, and Indonesia, Greece now offers a combination of crystal-clear waters, serene environments, and vibrant, natural hues that make these beaches an unforgettable part of any travel itinerary.
Picture a beach where the sand isn’t just golden or white, but a soft, delicate pink. This isn’t a fantasy—these pink sand beaches exist around the world, offering an otherworldly escape. Imagine walking along the shore, the gentle ocean waves washing over pink-hued sand, while the sky bursts into colors at sunset. These rare and beautiful beaches create a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a dream. The pink sand often results from the natural blending of crushed coral, seashells, and microscopic organisms with white sand, forming picturesque coastal landscapes.
For those who crave something extraordinary, here are five pink sand beaches that should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
1. Harbour Island, Bahamas
Harbour Island, located in the Bahamas, is home to one of the most famous pink sand beaches in the world. This stunning stretch of coastline spans nearly three miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering an unparalleled view of pale pink sand that contrasts beautifully with the bright turquoise waters. The sand’s vibrant pink color is most striking during the early morning and evening, making it a perfect place for photographers or those enjoying a romantic stroll along the beach.
While many beaches become crowded with tourists, Harbour Island retains its charm with a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. The soft sand, combined with clear water, makes it an ideal spot for unwinding. It’s a great destination for anyone seeking a combination of beauty, peace, and easy access to luxury accommodations, with a number of charming resorts dotting the island.
2. Pantai Merah, Komodo Island, Indonesia
Located in the heart of Indonesia’s Komodo National Park, Pantai Merah—also known as Pink Beach—boasts a remarkable pink color. This beach gets its unique hue from the blending of crushed red coral with white sand. Beyond its beauty, Pantai Merah offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling, where visitors can discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish. The crystal-clear water and pristine environment make it an adventurer’s paradise.
The beach is relatively remote, and while there are no accommodations directly on the shore, nearby towns offer places to stay, making it an accessible, though still secluded, getaway. Apart from enjoying the beach, visitors can also explore Komodo Island, home to the legendary Komodo dragons, adding an element of adventure to the experience.
3. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
On the southwestern coast of Crete, Elafonissi Beach stands out with its shallow, turquoise waters and distinctive pink sand. The rosy hue of the sand becomes particularly evident where crushed shells accumulate, giving the beach a soft, pastel appearance. The calm, shallow waters make it a family-friendly destination, perfect for swimming and wading. The beach’s laid-back atmosphere is complemented by its serene, natural setting, surrounded by dunes and a wide range of flora.
As one of Greece’s most beloved beaches, Elafonissi can attract a fair amount of tourists, but it still offers a peaceful escape, especially for those visiting outside peak travel times. The idyllic lagoon-like environment makes it a fantastic place for those seeking both relaxation and natural beauty.
4. Pink Sands Beach, Barbuda
Known for its tranquility and isolation, Pink Sands Beach on Barbuda is often ranked among the Caribbean’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches. This stunning, 17-mile stretch of coastline features soft, pink sand that gently fades into the calm, clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. What sets this beach apart is its seclusion; it remains relatively untouched by large crowds, offering a more intimate and serene experience than more commercialized beaches.
Pink Sands Beach is the perfect destination for those who wish to escape the typical tourist hubs and immerse themselves in a pristine, unspoiled environment. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the beach, with few distractions. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal place for relaxation, swimming, and strolling along the coastline without the usual hustle and bustle.
5. Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain
Playa de Ses Illetes, located on the Spanish island of Formentera, is another beach where you can occasionally catch a glimpse of subtle pink hues in the sand, especially during certain lighting conditions. Known for its powdery sand and crystal-clear, blue waters, this beach is popular among both tourists and locals. While it’s one of the more crowded destinations on this list, the beach’s natural beauty and European charm make it worth the visit.
In addition to its striking beauty, Playa de Ses Illetes offers a lively social atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers looking to meet new people while enjoying the stunning scenery. The beach is also part of a protected natural area, helping to preserve its pristine condition. Whether you’re interested in sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the views, Playa de Ses Illetes provides a combination of natural splendor and vibrant energy.
Greece joins the Bahamas, Barbuda, Spain, and Indonesia in showcasing stunning pink sand beaches, each offering a unique natural beauty with vibrant hues and crystal-clear waters that create unforgettable coastal experiences.
These pink sand beaches are more than just a visual spectacle—they’re magical places that offer visitors a rare chance to experience something truly unique. From the serene isolation of Barbuda’s Pink Sands Beach to the lively atmosphere of Spain’s Playa de Ses Illetes, these beaches are the perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an opportunity to explore new marine life, these stunning coastal gems are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
The landscape of Central Asian diplomacy and economic growth is currently being reshaped by a significant strategic partnership between Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates. This collaboration is characterized by a shared commitment to sustainable development and the exploration of green energy solutions that promise to modernize the region. Through high-level discussions and formal agreements, a massive infrastructure pivot is being executed, focusing on the dual pillars of renewable resources and international tourism. It is observed that the synergy between these two nations is driven by the UAE’s investment capabilities and Tajikistan’s vast, untapped natural potential.
A New Chapter in Diplomatic and Economic Relations
The foundation for this expanded cooperation was solidified during a series of official meetings where the mutual interests of Dushanbe and Abu Dhabi were aligned. A comprehensive roadmap for future projects was established, ensuring that the bilateral ties between the two nations are moved beyond traditional trade into the realms of high-tech industry and environmental stewardship. It is noted that the geographic hurdles of the past are being overcome by modern financial instruments and a collective desire for regional stability and prosperity.
The shift toward a greener economy is viewed not just as an environmental necessity but as a calculated economic move. By prioritizing sectors that provide long-term stability, Tajikistan is positioned as a key player in the Central Asian energy market. The United Arab Emirates, with its extensive experience in diversifying oil-based economies, provides the perfect blueprint and financial backing for such an ambitious transition.
Harnessing Hydropower and Renewable Resources
At the core of this partnership is the massive expansion of Tajikistan’s hydroelectric capabilities. Due to the country’s mountainous terrain and abundant water sources, it has long been identified as a prime location for green energy production. Plans have been set in motion for the construction and modernization of hydroelectric power plants, which are expected to be funded significantly by Emirati investment groups. These facilities are intended to provide clean electricity not only for domestic consumption but also for export to neighboring markets.
Beyond water-based energy, the exploration of solar and wind potential is also being prioritized. It is understood that technical experts from the UAE will be providing the necessary technological frameworks to integrate these renewable sources into the national grid. This transition is expected to reduce the carbon footprint of the industrial sector while creating thousands of specialized jobs for the local population. The passive observation of Tajikistan’s natural assets is being replaced by active, sustainable exploitation of resources.
Transformative Tourism and Luxury Infrastructure
Parallel to the energy sector, the tourism industry in Tajikistan is slated for a major overhaul. The country’s rugged beauty and cultural heritage are being packaged as a premium destination for international travelers, particularly those from the Gulf region. Extensive plans for luxury resorts, mountain retreats, and cultural centers have been drafted. These projects are designed to meet international standards of hospitality while preserving the unique environmental integrity of the Tajik landscape.
Transportation infrastructure, including the modernization of airports and the improvement of road networks connecting major tourist hubs, is being treated as a priority. By enhancing accessibility, it is believed that Tajikistan can become a prominent fixture on the global travel map. The influx of Emirati capital is expected to facilitate the creation of high-end service sectors, thereby diversifying the Tajik economy away from its traditional reliance on agriculture and remittances.
Strengthening Food Security and Agricultural Trade
The collaboration also extends into the vital sector of food security. Tajikistan’s fertile valleys offer significant opportunities for large-scale organic farming and livestock production. In exchange for investment in modern irrigation systems and processing plants, the UAE is expected to secure a stable supply chain for high-quality agricultural products. This reciprocal arrangement ensures that Tajik farmers gain access to sophisticated markets while the UAE bolsters its food reserves.
Joint ventures in the agro-industrial complex are being encouraged to streamline the export process. By implementing international quality controls and advanced packaging technologies, Tajik produce is being prepared for the global stage. This sector of the agreement highlights the holistic nature of the partnership, which seeks to address basic human needs alongside high-level industrial goals.
Logistics and the Enhancement of Connectivity
A major component of the discussions involved the improvement of logistical corridors. Tajikistan’s landlocked position is being addressed through the development of “dry ports” and logistics hubs that will facilitate the movement of goods between Central Asia and the Middle East. These hubs are intended to serve as staging areas for the vast amounts of construction materials and technology required for the green energy and tourism projects.
The UAE’s expertise in global logistics and port management is being utilized to create a more efficient customs and transit system. It is anticipated that these improvements will lead to a significant decrease in the cost of trade, making Tajik goods more competitive internationally. The focus on connectivity ensures that the benefits of the partnership are felt across the entire region, fostering a sense of shared economic destiny.
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Goals
Throughout the implementation of these massive projects, a strict adherence to environmental protection standards is being maintained. The “green” in the green energy pivot is not merely a label but a guiding principle. Environmental impact assessments are being conducted for every major construction site to ensure that the biodiversity of the Pamir mountains and surrounding ecosystems remains uncompromised.
The collaboration is seen as a model for how developing nations can partner with established financial powers to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By focusing on clean energy and responsible tourism, both Tajikistan and the UAE are demonstrating a commitment to a future that does not sacrifice the planet for the sake of profit. The narrative of industrialization is being rewritten to include the preservation of the natural world as a primary objective.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The strategic alignment between Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates represents a turning point for Central Asian economic policy. Through the combined efforts of both governments, a foundation for a modern, sustainable, and diversified economy is being laid. The emphasis on green energy, luxury tourism, and improved infrastructure suggests that the coming decade will be one of unprecedented growth and transformation for Tajikistan.
As these projects move from the planning stages to reality, the world is watching a unique experiment in international cooperation. The passive reception of foreign aid is being replaced by active, mutually beneficial investment. It is concluded that the partnership will not only redefine the landscape of Tajikistan but also set a new standard for diplomatic and economic engagement between the Middle East and Central Asia.
Norwegian Pearl is launching its 2026 Big Nude Cruise, offering guests a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the freedom of a clothing-optional vacation. This unique cruise will take passengers to some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including stops at Ocho Rios in Jamaica, Oranjestad in Aruba, Willemstad in Curaçao, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. At these breathtaking destinations, guests can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquil surroundings while embracing the freedom to choose whether or not to wear clothing. By offering this liberating experience, Bare Necessities ensures a comfortable and inclusive environment where passengers can truly unwind, be themselves, and enjoy an unforgettable journey.
During the voyage, the ship will visit picturesque destinations that promise both natural beauty and cultural allure. The ports of call include Ocho Rios in Jamaica, Oranjestad in Aruba, Willemstad in Curaçao, and Kralendijk in Bonaire. Each stop offers an opportunity to experience the unique flavors of the Caribbean and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the islands.
One of the highlights of the cruise will be two stops at Great Stirrup Cay, a private island in the Bahamas, where guests can fully unwind and embrace the cruise’s nudity-friendly policy. Great Stirrup Cay is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect destination to bask in the sun and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings, without the need for clothing.
The Bare Necessities Big Nude Cruise allows guests the freedom to choose whether to wear clothes or not, with a few exceptions. Clothing is required when the ship is docked at ports, and also during the captain’s reception and introductory events. However, the rest of the cruise provides passengers with the option to enjoy their journey as comfortably as they choose. The self-service restaurants aboard the ship are clothing-optional, adding to the sense of relaxation and freedom.
There are a few places on board where clothing is mandatory, such as the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants. These areas maintain a level of decorum while allowing for a laid-back dining experience. However, passengers can rest assured that the rest of the ship remains open to those who wish to dress down.
As part of the clothing-optional policy, Bare Necessities encourages guests to use towels when sitting in common areas while nude, particularly when wearing minimal clothing like G-strings, thongs, or when bare-bottomed. To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, towels are provided throughout the ship, especially in areas outside the common spaces. This ensures that guests can comfortably enjoy their cruise while adhering to the standards of cleanliness and respect for others.
Bare Necessities has been offering clothing-optional cruises for over 35 years, giving guests the chance to shed societal norms and embrace their natural selves in a welcoming environment. According to the company, the experience of leaving behind clothing allows people to express their true selves, fostering a sense of freedom and authenticity that traditional vacations often lack. For many passengers, choosing a nude vacation over a more conventional travel experience is a way to break free from expectations and connect more deeply with both themselves and their surroundings.
This freedom to be one’s authentic self is central to the appeal of the Big Nude Cruise. The opportunity to experience the world without the constraints of clothing or judgment creates a safe space where guests can truly unwind and be themselves. The ship’s relaxed, clothing-optional policy promotes an open and supportive community, where passengers can feel at ease to enjoy the journey on their own terms.
For many, the decision to choose a clothing-optional vacation is not just about shedding clothes; it’s about shedding the pressures of society, allowing individuals to engage in a more genuine and carefree experience. Whether it’s exploring a tropical island, mingling with fellow travelers, or simply lounging on the deck under the sun, the cruise offers a unique way to experience the world in an open, liberating setting.
With more than three decades of experience, Bare Necessities continues to pioneer the clothing-optional cruise industry, offering travelers the opportunity to embrace the open seas in a way that’s unlike any other. The company’s commitment to fostering a relaxed and inclusive environment ensures that each cruise is a transformative experience, where guests can explore new destinations and new sides of themselves.
The 2026 edition of the Big Nude Cruise promises to be another exciting chapter in Bare Necessities’ history. The itinerary is carefully curated to provide guests with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and freedom. From the pristine beaches of the Caribbean to the welcoming atmosphere of the ship, every element of the journey is designed to help passengers connect with the world and themselves in a truly authentic way.
Norwegian Pearl’s 2026 Big Nude Cruise offers guests a unique clothing-optional experience, visiting pristine Caribbean and Bahamian beaches where passengers can relax and embrace the freedom of nudity in a serene and welcoming environment.
In summary, the Big Nude Cruise aboard the Norwegian Pearl offers more than just a vacation; it offers an opportunity to experience life from a different perspective—one where guests can truly let go, embrace their freedom, and create lasting memories. With stunning destinations, a clothing-optional policy, and over three decades of experience, this cruise is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a unique and transformative travel experience.
Travelers looking for a budget-friendly getaway in March can now book cheap flights from Liverpool to Palma, Spain, with return fares available as low as £73. Short city breaks are perfect for catching a cheap city flight, and cheap flights should never be missed. The opportunity for a good city flight and a warm weekend is ideal for Palma! It’s never a bad idea to grab a cheap city flight to Palma and a cheap flight to a warm city weekend.
Flights from Liverpool to Palma
Short getaways require easyJet flights for short getaways! The flight from Palma to Liverpool is a direct flight, so it won’t be long before everyone is in Palma. Passengers will touch down in Palma Airport before they can even say, “Buenos Dias Palma.” If those are the plans, then don’t expect to have too long in the city of Palma before having to go back to England. The return flight will be back home in England on Sunday, and it is on this short flight from the city of Palma to England that everyone will converse in Spanish.
That flight from Palma to Liverpool is short, and it is important to remember that it is short. That short flight from Palma to England is actually the flight from Palma to Liverpool, and it is also the flight that is back home for everyone in England. That flight will arrive in England before a short walk to the gates at Liverpool. Everyone will arrive at the gates in England first before they leave to go back to the city of Palma.
Short Getaways are Real!
With this travel schedule, travelers will only have to take 2 days off to have a long weekend in Palma. This option is great for those who want to take a short holiday. Like other budget airlines, these tickets are likely to sell out, making early booking necessary to get the lowest price.
Experience Palma’s Rich History and Amazing Scenery
Palma is located on the island of Mallorca, which is the capital of the Balearic Islands and has one of the largest tourist industries in Spain. Palma is known for being a relaxing place and offering a lot of adventure due to its fantastic historical landmarks, great modern buildings, and vibrant nightlife. One of the most famous historical landmarks is La Seu Cathedral, which is in the old town of Palma. The old town is famous for its old narrow streets and large open squares.
The modern part of Palma is very commercial and has a lot of hotels and restaurants. The nightlife of Palma is also commercial and very lively.
An Ideal Escape for Family Members or Single Travelers
There is a possibility of visitor interest for either family members’ travel or single travel. For family travelers, Palma is a good travel option due to its good beaches and sites with rich history where they can take their kids and do activities. For single travelers, Palma offers relaxation, social engagement, culture, and great sites.
And lastly, Palma’s transportation is easy to travel to and from due to the close distance taxi rides to the airport.
Travel Now to Get the Cheapest Tickets Available
The most rational decision might be booking a ticket now to take advantage of the direct route tickets that are available. They also provide a good offer with the return tickets to Palma. The tickets are currently priced at £73. Palma tickets are most likely to be bought quickly. Early booking is a great decision with the ticket pricing.
When you book your flight early, you can spend your time planning your weekend activities in Palma. From the stunning beaches to the important historical sites around the city, there is plenty to do to fill your long weekend. Palma is a great destination for a holiday to have a break, have some fun, or do a bit of both.
Why Palma, Spain, is the Best Weekend Getaway from Liverpool
Palma, Spain, is a great place for a city break because it is close, the flights are cheap, and there are lots of things to do there. You can visit the historical sites and the beaches, or you can visit some of the Spanish culture. Palma, Spain is a fun place for anybody to visit.
With many people looking for a destination where they can relax and have some fun, Palma is a great place to be for a short time. The flights from Liverpool to Palma are cheap, and it is a great place to have a long holiday in Spain.
Google has released the first public beta of its next Android version – Android 17 Beta 1. This update is mostly for developers, but it also brings improvements that will make apps run better, work on bigger screens, and handle media and cameras more smoothly.
The main highlight of this update is about apps adapting to different screen sizes. With Android 17, apps must support resizing and windowed mode on tablets, foldable phones, and large-screen devices. Apps can no longer be fixed to one orientation or size. This means apps will look and work better on all kinds of devices.
Also, Android 17 lets camera apps switch between modes without restarting, reducing freezes and glitches. Apps can now also get information from all camera sensors, not just the main one. It makes zoom and lens changes smoother.
Image via Google
For Media, the latest Android beta update adds better audio controls and supports Versatile Video Coding. It can give good video quality in smaller file sizes.
Other updates include performance improvements, better privacy and security, and smarter connectivity. Also, Wi-Fi Ranging now has more accurate distance detection, and new device profiles make it easier to set up medical and fitness gadgets. Android XR also gets a new mode to respond better to how users interact with extended reality devices.
Android 17 Beta 1 is available for many Pixel devices, including Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold models. Users already in the Android Beta Program will get the update automatically.
Google plans to reach Platform Stability by March 2026, with the first stable release expected for Pixel phones in Q2 2026, and a minor release in Q4 2026. Android 17 plans to deliver better apps, smoother media, and a more adaptive experience for all users.
Cryptocurrency analyst TARA has forecast that XRP could decline below the $1 psychological support level, citing the altcoin's correlation to Bitcoin's price.
With iOS 26.3, Apple is rolling out one of the biggest iPhone updates since iOS 26 launched last fall. The patch supposedly improves privacy and makes it easier to get out of Apple’s closed ecosystem.
Insta360 has officially presented its first vlogging camera. Launching as the Insta360 Luna, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 series rival is said to be more than just 'another Pocket' by Insta360's CEO. The company has confirmed when the Luna will be launching, too.
According to a new report, Xiaomi is preparing to release another Wear OS smartwatch globally. The first since the Watch 2 Pro, pricing for the global version of the Xiaomi Watch 5 has leaked, too.
TrimUI is working on a clamshell retro handheld. Positioned as a smaller alternative to the Retroid Pocket Flip 2, the handheld is said to have a 4.7-inch display and may be as little as 15 mm thick.
The first sighting of a new smartwatch range by Polar has emerged online. Called the Polar Street X, the unreleased wearable has already been pictured by the FCC in an unusually detailed leak.
With memory shortages and high prices pushing the tech industry into constant uncertainty, the future of affordable consoles seems bleak. A well-known industry analyst has now shared some thoughts on what the Steam Machine could cost and what the next Xbox is heading towards.
The smartphone market is clearly dominated by Apple and Samsung, as both companies each have more than a billion active smartphone users. In total, eight companies surpass 200 million users according to the latest data from Counterpoint Research.
BenQ has announced two new glossy monitors targeted at Mac users, including one potential Apple Studio Display alternative. With 5K and 4K options, they offer Mac-tuned colors, Thunderbolt 4, and deeper macOS integration.
A new beta update, version 16.28, is rolling out to a couple of the brand’s smartwatches. This release includes a golf course related improvement, as well as bug fixes for cycling and skiing workouts. Plus, users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches are also getting updated translations.
The Huawei Diabetes Risk Study smartwatch feature has been announced. On the way to the Watch GT 6 Pro, this tool uses the PPG sensor to assess your risk of diabetes or prediabetes. It is also expected to be pushed to other Huawei smartwatches in future updates.
Amazfit’s upcoming Active 3 Premium smartwatch has appeared for a second time. Having been spotted in the code behind the brand’s app, it has now also been found in an FCC filing. A drawing of the packaging for the wearable confirms some details, including a bigger battery than some of its predecessors.
The Xiaomi Tag will cost €17.99 in the Eurozone according to Xiaomi's official website for France, which seems to have mistakenly listed the accessory already. A four-pack will set you back €59.99. According to WinFuture, there are other European retailers that have listed it as well, some for below €15, undercutting the recommended retail price even before launch.
This version of the Tag seems to lack support for UWB, which was rumored before. This means that Xiaomi will offer two versions of the device - this cheaper model sans UWB, and a more expensive option with UWB.
The...
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., is once again stepping onto the international stage, drawing global interest and reigniting debates about legacy, pressure, and destiny in soccer.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s name has defined an era of soccer, and now a new chapter of that legacy is quietly taking shape. As the Portuguese icon continues to rewrite history late into his career, attention is shifting to the next generation. His eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., is once again stepping onto the international stage, drawing global interest and reigniting debates about legacy, pressure, and destiny in soccer.
While the spotlight often follows the Al-Nassr captain wherever he goes, this time it is his son who is preparing to carry the family name onto a new international platform, with European giants and youth academies closely watching his progress.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has already begun to establish himself as a rising talent in youth soccer. At just 15 years old, he has accumulated international experience and built a reputation through youth tournaments in Croatia and Turkey. His journey through elite academies, Manchester United, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr, has mirrored the path once taken by his legendary father.
The teenager currently represents Al-Nassr’s youth academy, continuing his development in Saudi Arabia while his father remains the centerpiece of the club’s project. Despite his young age, he has already become one of the most talked-about prospects in Portugal’s youth system.
🚨🚨| OFFICIAL: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr returns to the Portugal U16 squad 🇵🇹🔙
He is set to represent his country at the Algarve Tournament over the next 7 days.
Portuguese outlets have highlighted how his calmness, movement, and attacking instincts have drawn comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo’s early career. The expectations are enormous, but the journey has only just begun.
When Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. will take the stage
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is set to represent the Portugal U-16 national team at the Algarve Tournament between February 12 and February 17, where he will face three major international opponents over a seven-day period.
Match schedule:
February 12: Portugal vs. Japan
February 14: Portugal vs. Netherlands
February 17: Portugal vs. Germany
This will mark his first youth international tournament played on Portuguese soil, after previously featuring in tournaments abroad. The squad is coached by Filipe, a former Sporting player and a World Cup winner with Portugal’s U-20 team, and Ronaldo Jr. is expected to be one of the standout names in the squad.
Although Cristiano Ronaldo himself will not attend, Portuguese outlet SIC Notícias indicates that his grandmother, Dolores Aveiro, has been present during the training camp, offering family support as the young forward prepares for another milestone.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr
Early signs of a rising star
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has already delivered moments that hint at a bright future. Earlier in 2025, he starred for Portugal’s U-15 side at the Vlatko Markovic Tournament in Croatia, scoring twice in the final to secure a 3-2 victory over the hosts. That performance accelerated his promotion to the U-16 squad and established him as one of the country’s most promising attackers of his age group.
He has since featured in several youth competitions, including the Federations Cup in Turkey, where he made his international debut and later scored his first goal for the U-16 team. His performances have drawn praise for composure, movement, and technical discipline—traits strongly associated with his father’s playing style.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr of Portugal (C) looks on prior to the Men's U15 International match between Portugal and Japan
Ahead of the last preseason friendly in Puerto Rico, Lionel Messi's Inter Miami has unveiled the new away kit for the 2026 MLS season.
Lionel Messi is in the final phase of Inter Miami’s preseason tour, building peak fitness ahead of a demanding 2026 MLS season with the World Cup on the horizon. With the final preseason friendly against Independiente del Valle set for Puerto Rico, the Herons will unveil their new away kit.
After a successful 2025 campaign that ended with an MLS Cup title, Inter Miami have already added their first star above the badge and will display it on the pink home kit throughout the 2026 season. However, a new away strip has also been unveiled, and it’s expected to debut in the upcoming friendly.
On Wednesday, Inter Miami revealed Presagio, a black jersey featuring gray striping along the shoulders and a sleek collar design. Replacing the Fortitude kit, the new strip features the club crest in pink topped with a silver star, representing the franchise’s historic 2025 MLS Cup triumph.
Named Presagio, the club said the title “captures the anticipation and tension that Inter Miami CF’s arrival generates.” With Messi’s presence, the Herons have broken attendance records across MLS, and during their preseason tour, large local crowds have attended matches despite their friendly status.
Inter Miami’s new away kit Presagio.
Entering the final days of the Club’s Champions Tour, Inter Miami will travel to Puerto Rico to face Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle next Friday, February 13. It is scheduled to be the last friendly before the start of the 2026 MLS season, with the opener set for Saturday the 21st against LAFC.
In addition, Maximiliano Falcón, Telasco Segovia, and Germán Berterame are all expected to miss the match. Segovia and Falcón are finalizing paperwork to obtain their green cards, which kept them out of training in Fort Lauderdale, while new signing Berterame is awaiting his U.S. work visa, meaning only a last-minute change would make any of them available.
In light of their evident defensive problems, Barcelona are reportedly targeting a €50 million star. However, Hansi Flick has suffered a major setback, as Real Madrid have supposedly taken the lead in securing his arrival for the 2026–27 season.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have looked significantly weakened defensively, as the departure of Iñigo Martínez has left a delicate gap at the back. In response, Hansi Flick is reportedly pushing for a marquee defensive signing valued at €50 million. However, the Blaugrana could face a major setback, asReal Madrid have reportedly taken the lead in the race for his transfer for the next season.
According to BILD, Nico Schlotterbeck remains open to the possibility of renewing his contract with Borussia Dortmund. However, he is not entirely convinced due to what he sees as the team’s lack of ambition, which keeps his departure as a strong possibility. In that context, the German defender is reportedly only considering Real Madrid as a potential destination ahead of the 2026–27 season, ruling out any chance of joining Hansi Flick at Barcelona.
Even though the German defender is one of Real Madrid’s top priorities to strengthen their back line, he would not come cheaply from Borussia Dortmund. With a contract running until 2027, the German club would demand between €40–50 million for his transfer. However, Los Blancos are not solely focused on the 26-year-old star, as they are also evaluating Ibrahima Konaté as a potential free agent, viewing him as a strong option for the future.
As no agreement has yet been reached over his signing, Barcelona still keep Schlotterbeck among their defensive options. Given their defensive weaknesses, they would reportedly be willing to pay the €40–50 million fee for his transfer, as Hansi Flick supposedly views him as an ideal fit. With several months ahead, the Blaugranas still have time to try to convince the German defender to join the club for the 2026–27 season.
Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund celebrates after scoring a goal.
Not only Schlotterbeck: Barcelona reportedly target a Serie A star
Despite their interest in Nico Schlotterbeck, the growing pursuit from Real Madrid and the slow pace of negotiations have forced Barcelona to look towards other options to strengthen their defense. In their search for a left-sided center back, the Blaugranas have already turned their attention to a Serie A star as a potential reinforcement, pushing the possible arrival of the German defender into the background.
According to Matteo Moretto and José Álvarez on X (formerly Twitter), the Blaugrana have decided to prioritize the signing of Alessandro Bastoni from Inter Milan. With a contract running until 2028, the Italian could command a multimillion-dollar fee, as he is a key figure for his club. However, no negotiations have been opened between the two parties, creating uncertainty over his potential arrival, as Barcelona are reportedly in no rush to secure the deal.
Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
The current Cardano price is revisiting a critical multi-year support zone as extreme oversold conditions emerge, placing price at a key inflection point for a potential macro reversal.
The Breville Bambino Plus is a great espresso machine with simple to use features. It's on sale now at Amazon and is a delightful addition to your kitchen.
Amazon just launched its Presidents' Day sale, and some of its best deals are on award-winning tech gadgets, including AirPods, TVs, smart home devices, and more.
Leroy Sane 17 Şubat'ta oynanacak Juventus karşılaşmasında yüzde 100 hazır bir şekilde ilk 11'deki yerini alması bekleniyor.
Manchester City deplasmanında sakatlanan Leroy Sane’den müjde geldi. Sağlık ekibinin yoğun mesaisi sonuç verdi. Yıldız oyuncunun kritik randevular öncesi durumu netleşti.
Sakatlığı nedeniyle bir süredir takımdan ayrı kalan Sane’nin, Şampiyonlar Ligi’ndeki maça yetişmesi hedefleniyor. Gelen bilgilere göre Alman yıldız, 17 Şubat’ta oynanacak Juventus karşılaşmasında yüzde 100 hazır bir şekilde ilk 11’deki yerini alacak.
Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Eyüpspor maçı öncesi yaptığı açıklamada kadro derinliğine vurgu yaptı. Sane'nin durumuyla ilgili temkinli ama umutlu konuşan Buruk'un ifadeleri şu şekildeydi:
- Leroy Sane'nin Eyüpspor maçında kadroda olup olmayacağını göreceğiz. Önümüzde çok yoğun bir fikstür var, çok fazla maç oynayacağız. Bu süreçte tüm oyuncularımı kullanacağım.
Sane sakatlık sonrasında Eyüpspor maçında geniş kadroda yer alması ve maçın gidişatına göre süre alması bekleniyor.
Juventus maçına fiziksel olarak tam kapasiteyle sahaya çıkacak ve ilk 11'de başlayacak.
21 Mayıs 2022'de Dursun Özbek göreve geldiğinde toplam borç ve yükümlülükler 254 milyon euro'ydu. Bugün 757 Milyon Euro'ya çıktı. 3 yılda borç 500 milyon euro civarında arttı.
Son Divan Kurulu toplantısı Galatasaray'daki mali tablo tartışmalarını alevlendirdi. Başkan Dursun Özbek yönetimine yönelik eleştirilerin odağında, kulübün borç yükündeki devasa artış yer aldı.
Toplantıda paylaşılan verilere göre, Galatasaray’ın mali tablosundaki değişim korkutucu boyutlara ulaştı. 21 Mayıs 2022'de Dursun Özbek göreve geldiğinde toplam borç ve yükümlülükler 254 milyon euro seviyesindeydi. Bu süreçte kulübün müzesinde 22 şampiyonluk bulunuyordu. 30 Kasım 2025 itibariyle toplam borç ve yükümlülük miktarı 757 milyon euro’ya ulaştı.
Divan üyeleri, aradan geçen kısa sürede borcun yaklaşık 503 milyon euro artmasına tepki gösterdi. Kürsüde dile getirilen eleştirilerde, sportif başarının finansal sürdürülebilirliği gölgelediği vurgulanarak şu ifadelere yer verildi:
- Galatasaray, 22 şampiyonluğunu 254 milyon euro borçla elde etmişken; son 3 şampiyonluğun neredeyse 500 milyon euro ek borçla kazanılmış olması kabul edilemez.
Borcun katlanarak artması, camia içinde "Florya ve Riva gibi projelerden beklenen gelirlerin bu borç yükünü kapatmaya yetip yetmeyeceği" sorusunu gündeme getirdi.
Zubkov'dan sonra Onuachu'nun da Fenerbahçe derbisine yetişememe riski ortaya çıktı... forma şansı daha az olan Ukraynalının yerine Felipe Augusto ismi öne çıktı.
Cumartesi günü sahasında Fenerbahçe’yi konuk edecek Trabzonspor’da tüm gözler sakat oyunculara döndü. Samsunspor ile oynanan son karşılaşmada ayağına aldığı darbe sonrası korkutan Paul Onuachu, iki günlük dinlenme ve yoğun buz tedavisinin ardından idmanlara döndü.
Takımla çalışmalara katılan Nijeryalı golcünün, kendisini iyi hissettiği ve teknik direktör Fatih Tekke’nin şans vermesi halinde derbide sahadaki yerini alabileceği öğrenildi.
Hücum hattının bir diğer kritik ismi Zubkov’un durumu da netlik kazanmadı. Antalyaspor maçında yaşadığı adale sakatlığı nedeniyle bir süredir takımdan ayrı kalan Ukraynalı kanat oyuncusunun durumu ciddiyetini koruyor.
Zubkov’un yetişmemesi durumunda Tekke'nin bir numaralı alternatifi Felipe Augusto.
Chobani'nin sahibi Hamdi Ulukaya sponsorluk anlaşması kapsamında 10 milyon dolar'lık ödeme yaptı. Kanté transferi gerçekleştirdi. Nakit sıkışıklığı üzerine Fenerbahçe yönetimi "ön ödeme" talebinde bulundu.
Fenerbahçe'nin Chobani markasına dair yayımladığı teşekkür mesajının detayları ortaya çıktı. Bu iş birliği sıradan bir sponsorluk anlaşmasının çok ötesinde bir "kurtarma operasyonu" niteliği taşıyor.
İddialara göre Chobani'nin sahibi Hamdi Ulukaya, Fenerbahçe sevgisiyle elini taşın altına soktu. Sponsorluk anlaşması kapsamında 10 milyon dolar'lık ödeme erkene alındı. Yıldız futbolcu N'Golo Kanté transferinde yaşanan nakit sıkışıklığı üzerine, yönetim Ulukaya’dan "ön ödeme" talebinde bulundu.
Hamdi Ulukaya'nın, transferin bitirilmesi adına 30 milyon dolar'lık ek bir ön ödemeyi kabul ettiği ve Kanté imzasının bu sayede atıldığı belirtiliyor.
Bu durum Fenerbahçe'de ciddi soru işaretlerine neden oldu. Özellikle Adidas ve Passolig gibi mevcut partnerlerle yaşanan süreçler ve Chobani’den alınan ön ödemeler yönetimin ve yöneticilerin "kasa kolaylığı" sağlamak yerine kulübün gelecekteki gelirlerini bugünden tükettiği eleştirilerini başlattı.
İleri dönemli sponsorluk bedellerinin şimdiden harcanması, önümüzdeki dönemlerde nakit akışı krizi riskini doğuruyor. Yöneticilerin kulübe "kasa kolaylığı" sağlaması gerektiğini savunlar da var.
Sezon başında 8.5 milyon Euro'ya kiralanan Muci için Trabzonspor tarafı "değer mi?" diyordu... şimdi ise Beşiktaş tarafından "ucuza gitti" sesleri yükseliyor.
Sezon başında Beşiktaş’tan Trabzonspor’a transfer olduğunda 8.5 milyon Euro’luk bonservis bedeli "değer mi?" diye eleştirilen Ernest Muci için son günlerin tartışması "Beşiktaş bedava gönderdi" şekline döndü.
Sezon tamamlanmadan 12 gol ve 5 asistlik performansa ulaşan Arnavut oyuncu Beşiktaş’taki iki sezonda verdiği katkıyı şimdiden geride bıraktı.
Muçi başarısıyla sadece tribünlerin değil takım arkadaşlarının da sevgisini kazandı. Tribüne oynamadan, gösterişten uzak bir profil çiziyor. Sadece işine odaklanarak soyunma odasında kredi kazanıyor. Teknik direktör Fatih Tekke’nin futbol aklıyla tam uyum sağlayan Arnavut yıldız, sadece tabelayı değil oyunun ruhunu da değiştiriyor.
Tekke hafta sonunda oynanacak Fenerbahçe maçında da en çok Muci'ya güveniyor.
Sergen Yalçın'ın, Ocak transfer döneminde Ozan Tufan'la ilgilendiği ancak son anda kapıdan döndüğü iddia edildi.
Trabzonspor’da bugünlerde takdirle karşılanan bir "Ozan Tufan gerçeği" var. Hull City’den geldiğinde kafalarda oluşan soru işaretleri yerini güvene bıraktı. Hikâyenin arkasında bir de transfer flörtü var.
İddialara göre Sergen Yalçın eski öğrencisi Ozan’ı Beşiktaş'a istedi. Alanyaspor döneminde Ozan’ı yeniden milli takıma gönderen Yalçın milli oyuncu için hamle yapılmasını istedi. Ancak transferin mali şartları ve dengeler bu buluşmaya izin vermedi.
Ozan Tufan yedek kulübesinde olsa bile, sergilediği tavır beğeni alıyor. Kulüp içinde "en uyumlu futbolcu" olarak anılıyor. 89. dakikada oyuna girip ses çıkarmıyor. Sağ bekten merkez orta sahaya, 8 numaradan 10 numaraya kadar sistem neyi gerektiriyorsa yapıyor.
Genç oyuncular için ne yukarıdan bakan bir figür ne de geri planda kalan bir isim; gerektiğinde ağabey, gerektiğinde eşlikçi. Eşi Rojin Tufan’ın şehirle kurduğu sıcak ilişki, Ozan’ın Trabzon’a olan aidiyetini saha dışına da taşıyor.
Basketbol FIBA Erkekler Avrupa Kupası ikinci tur N Grubu altıncı ve son maçında Aliağa Petkimspor, sahasında Yunanistan temsilcisi Peristeri'ye 87-85 yenildi.
Aliağa Petkimspor,Basketbol FIBA Erkekler Avrupa Kupası ikinci tur N Grubu altıncı ve son maçında sahasında Yunanistan temsilcisi Peristeri'ye 87-85 yenildi.
Bu sonuçla N Grubu'nu 4 galibiyet ve 2 mağlubiyetle ikinci sırada tamamlayan Aliağa Petkimspor, çeyrek finale yükselmeyi daha önce garantilemişti.
Galatasaray Kulübü'nün şubat ayı divan kurulu toplantısında eski Sportif A.Ş. Başkanvekili Erden Timur hakkında dikkat çeken açıklamalar yapıldı. Galatasaray Divan Kurulu Üyesi Taner Aşkın, Erden Timur'u eleştirirken İkinci Başkan Metin Öztürk konuya ilişkin yanıt verdi.
Galatasaray Kulübü'nün şubat ayı divan kurulu toplantısında kulübün eski Sportif A.Ş. Başkanvekili Erden Timur ile ilgili tartışma yaşandı.
Galatasaray Divan Kurulu Üyesi Taner Aşkın, Erden Timur hakkında açıklama yaptı. Aşkın, "Cebinde parası olup Galatasaray'a yönetici olanlar var; şikayetçiyim! Galatasaray adını istismar ederek kullanan insanlar var! Kanuni takibata uğramış insanlar içeride, hapiste! Bu insanlar şu anda hapiste! Dava öyleymiş, böyleymiş… Bunun siyasetine girmiyorum" dedi.
Taner Aşkın'ın diğer sözleri şu şekilde:
"Ama bakın şimdi: Bir Galatasaray ikinci başkanı, önünde Galatasaray arması var ve tutuklanmış! Neden tutuklanmış? Şu veya bu sebepten tutuklanmış. Yargıya intikal etmiş bir konu. Yönetiminizi toplarsınız ve yargı süreci neticelenene kadar görevini askıya alırsınız. Haklı çıkarsa devam eder; haklı çıkmazsa genel kurula getirir, ihraç edersiniz.
Galatasaray'ın yazılmayan kuralları vardır; bunları bizden sonraki nesillere devretmek zorundayız! Hiçbir şey gizli kalmaz! Pandora'nın kutusu bende o kadar çok ki, açsak 70-80 fasiküllük ansiklopedi olur! Galatasaray bir yere gelecekse ehil insanlarla, mütehassıs insanlarla gelir; ama ondan sonra yürümesi mümkün değildir!"
METİN ÖZTÜRK'TEN AÇIKLAMA
Galatasaray Başkanı Dursun Özbek, divan kurulundaki konuşmasının ardından Ergin Ataman'ın annesi Gülten Ataman'ın cenazesi nedeniyle salondan ayrıldı.
Sarı-kırmızılılarda Taner Aşkın'ın sözlerine yönetim adına ikinci başkan Metin Öztürk cevap verdi.
"ERDEN TİMUR'A TEŞEKKÜR EDERİM"
Metin Öztürk'ün sözleri şu şekilde:
"Galatasaray'ı diğer kulüplerden ayıran en büyük özellik anlatılıyor. Sadece 120 yıllık geçmişi değil, 1481'e kadar uzanan Galatasaray Lisesi'nden gelen kültür.
Biz burada kimseye tekme atmayız ama burada olmayan, kulübe sponsor olmuş, her zor zamanda yetişmiş, kulübümüzde başkanvekilliği yapmış, canıyla kanıyla bu kulüp için savaşmış, kendi ekonomik değerlerini ötelemiş birine, kendisi burada yokken, kendi işleri sebebiyle, Galatasaray'la alakası olmayan bir nedenle bir konuda yargılanan birine burada vurmak bir ağabeyimize yakışmadı. Birilerinin kan davası varsa, onu konuşacağı yer burası değildir.
Sayın Erden Timur; bizim için, Galatasaray için, başkanımızın, yönetimin, taraftarlar ve üyeler için her dönem gereken tüm gayreti göstermiştir. Asla Galatasaray'dan nemalanmaya çalışmamış, emeği ve gücü ile Galatasaray'a katkı sağlamıştır. Yönetim, başkan ve kendim adına Galatasaray'a verdiği emek ve destek için şahsen Erden Timur'a teşekkür ediyorum."
The former boss of the L3Harris-owned hacking and surveillance tools maker Trenchant faces nine years in prison for selling several exploits to a Russian broker, which counts the Russian government among its customers.
Amanda Silver is a corporate vice president at Microsoft’s CoreAI division, where she works on tools for deploying apps and agentic systems within enterprises.
UpScrolled, a social network that surged in the wake of the U.S. TikTok deal, has seen an uptick in harmful content, including usernames and hashtags that contain racial slurs.
ABŞ klubu “Kolumbus Kru”ya keçən Azərbaycan millisinin cinah hücumçusu Nəriman Axundzadə sosial şəbəkə hesabında paylaşım edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, 21 yaşlı hücumçu “Qarabağ”la vidalaşıb.
O, paylaşımında bunları qeyd edib: “Çox sağ ol, böyük “Qarabağ” ailəsi”.
Xatırladaq ki, Nəriman Axundzadənin “Kolumbus Kru” ilə sözləşməsinin müddəti 2029-cu ilin yayınadək nəzərdə tutulub.
Yeri gəlmişkən, ABŞ klubunun baş meneceri İssa Toll Nərimanın transferi barədə fikirlərini bölüşüb. O, “Qarabağ”dan 2,5 milyon avroya aldıqları futbolçunun transferi ilə bağlı bunları dilə gətirib:
“Nəriman klubumuza fərqli bacarıqlar gətirəcək və bu, komandamıza əlavə bir ölçü qatacaq. Onun texniki keyfiyyətləri və yüksək iş əzmi oyun üslubumuzla çox yaxşı uyğunlaşır.
Gənc yaşına baxmayaraq, Nəriman artıq həm ölkə daxilində, həm Avropa səviyyəsində, həm də milli komandada təcrübə qazanıb. Onu Kolambusda qarşılamaqdan məmnunuq və klubumuzda necə inkişaf edəcəyini səbirsizliklə gözləyirik”.
Sonda bir maraqlı məqamı da vurğulayaq ki, Nəriman Axundzadə ABŞ klubunda daha əvvəl Azərbaycanda oynamış Nikolas Hagenlə komanda yoldaşı olacaq. Qvatemaladan olan qapıçı 2024-cü ilin dekabrından MLS təmsilçisində çıxış edir. 29 yaşlı qolkiper 2020/2021 mövsümündə “Səbail”in formasını geyinib.
Premyer Liqa klublarının ikinci komandaları arasında keçirilən Əvəzedicilər Liqasında 16, 17 və 18-ci turların oyun cədvəlləri açıqlanıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının (PFL) rəsmi saytı məlumat yayıb.
16-cı turun oyunları 14, 16 və 17 fevralda keçiriləcək. 17-ci turun görüşləri fevralın 22-də və 23-də baş tutacaq. 18-ci turun matçları isə 2-3 marta təsadüf edəcək.
Dünya reytinqinə 595 xalı olan Fransa çempionu PSJ rəhbərlik edir. İngiltərənin “Çelsi” klubu 496 xalla ikinci pillədə qərarlaşıb. Almaniyanın “Bayern” komandası 457 xalla ilk üçlüyü qapayır.
Reytinq siyahısının ilk 10 pilləsində qərarlaşmış komandaların siyahısını təqdim edirik:
Bologna host Lazio at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara this evening in the final Coppa Italia quarter-final, as both sides fight for a place in the semis.
Bologna come into the game off the back of back-to-back defeats at home – with a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Milan followed by the weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Parma.
For a Bologna side who started the season strongly, fatigue has begun to set in – especially given their participation in multiple tournaments – domestically and abroad.
Lazio, meanwhile, seem to remain at the eye of the storm. Chaos on and off the field has led to a dramatic season for the Biancocelesti but head coach Maurizio Sarri has instilled a sense of calm that has seen the Biancocelesti eke out important results.
VERONA, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Maurizio Sarri head coach of SS Lazio during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on January 11, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
At the weekend, they were unlucky to draw 2-2 at Juventus, leading the game by a two goal cushion before a late Bianconeri comeback. Sarri’s side have lost just two of their last twelve games, yet with six draws, they find themselves somewhat off the pace in the race for European football.
For both sides, in fact, winning Coppa Italia would seem to be the most likely route to participating in Europe next season, so there is a lot on the line tonight.
Coppa Italia | Bologna vs Lazio – Official Lineups
Mario Balotelli scored his first goal since 2024 when he found the back of the net last Friday for his new club Al-Ittifaq.
The UAE First Division club signed the Italian journeyman in January, after his contract expired with Genoa at the end of last season.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 21: Mario Balotelli of Genoa looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa and Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 21, 2024 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Al-Ittifaq have been struggling so far this season but the Italian scored the second of three goals as the team won 3-1 away at Gulf United.
The club will be hoping that the 35-year-old will score more as they hope to avoid relegation this season.
Watch: Balotelli scores first goal for new club Al-Ittifaq
The deal for Pavard was made up of a season-long loan deal for €2.5m and an option to buy for an additional €15m, however, recent reports in France and Italy claim that the Frenchman is increasingly likely to return to Inter at the end of the season.
This is not the case for Weah, however, whose loan deal to Marseille includes a potential obligation to buy. According to Calciomercato.com, Marseille will trigger that obligation to buy once they secure mathematical safety in Ligue 1 this season.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Timothy Weah of Olympique de Marseille celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)
Marseille are currently in fourth place in the Ligue 1 table, 25 points clear of the relegation zone with 13 games of the season left to play.
It is a case of when, rather than if Marseille trigger their obligation to buy. Once that happens, Juventus will be entitled to a fee of €15.4m plus up to €4.1m in add-ons. The Bianconeri have already received €1m for Weah’s season-long loan deal.
Gian Piero Gasperini is expected to have Paulo Dybala back at his disposal when Roma take on Napoli in Serie A over the weekend, and there is also positive news regarding January signing Robinio Vaz according to Wednesday’s reports.
Dybala and Robinio Vaz fighting to be fit for Napoli vs. Roma
Dybala has missed Roma’s last two Serie A matches due to a knee issue, but returned to training on Wednesday and is now expected to compete for a spot in the team to take on Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday evening, potentially as a starter.
Robinio Vaz was also partially involved in Wednesday’s training session at Trigoria. The 18-year-old joined the Giallorossi in a €25m deal during the January transfer window, but has spent the last week nursing a soleus injury after picking up an injury three substitute appearances into his Roma career.
New signing Robinio Vaz poses with his jersey (asroma.it)
According to Corriere dello Sport, Matias Soule and Mario Hermoso trained on personalised programmes on Wednesday. The former has been struggling with a bit of discomfort around his pubis, while the Spaniard has been dealing with a minor impact injury to his foot.
Manu Kone, Stephan El Shaarawy, Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk continued to work individually on Wednesday.
XRP news drops as valuation surges into the global elite, Ripple, the thrusting the blockchain firm into the spotlight and sparking renewed conversation around its market position and potential public listing.
Coinbase stock price retreated by over 5% on Wednesday as traders and investors remained pessimistic about its business ahead of its fourth-quarter earnings report.
As per the report, while a caretaker manager model similar to Manchester United’s would have made the most sense for Spurs at this stage, potentially waiting to approach Mauricio Pochettino post-World Cup, the availability of De Zerbi “changes the equation” for Tottenham.
Category
Stat
Matches Managed
89
Wins
38
Draws
20
Losses
31
Win Percentage
42.7%
Points per Game
1.51
Roberto De Zerbi – Brighton record in All competitions via Transfermarkt
The report also mentions Mauricio Pochettino and Xabi Alonso as two other elite managers who could be considered for the long-term role.
However, Pochettino is currently leading the USMNT and any move for him might have to wait for after the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Alonso might wait for an opportunity at Anfield, with Arne Slot’s future at the club also uncertain.
Tottenham need instant impact to avoid relegation battle
The urgency at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium cannot be overstated. Following a dismal 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle, Spurs have plummeted to 16th in the Premier League, sitting just five points above the relegation zone.
The club needs a manager who can make an instant impact and save them from a genuine relegation dogfight.
With the North London Derby against Arsenal looming on February 22, the board is under immense pressure to find a leader capable of stabilising a fractured dressing room.
De Zerbi’s proven track record of implementing a high-octane, winning philosophy on short notice makes him the standout candidate to steer the club away from the drop.
Arsenal and Liverpool remain interested in signing Yan Diomande.
The 19-year-old has done quite well since the move to RB Leipzig (14 goal contributions this season), and the German club is under pressure to sell some players in the summer. They are looking to raise €100 million from his departure, and clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool are very keen on him.
According to a report via SportWitness, multiple clubs are monitoring the Ivorian attacker, but the two Premier League clubs have already launched extensive scouting missions and discussions for the player. It will be interesting to see if they are prepared to pay up. €100 million is a lot of money for a young player like him. Even though he is a sensational talent, he is still largely unproven at the highest level. Arsenal or Liverpool might prefer to sign him for a more reasonable fee.
It is no secret that both clubs need more quality on the flanks. Arsenal are still struggling to create opportunities from the wide areas, and they could use the explosive pace and trickery of the African. On the other hand, Liverpool has not been able to adequately replace Luis Diaz, and that has cost them. They need a genuine dribbler who can add unpredictability to the attacking unit.
The 19-year-old has the quality to transform both clubs in the attack. He will aim to compete at the highest level and regularly fight for major trophies. Both clubs can provide him with that platform. It remains to be seen where he ends up. He should look to join a club where he can play a prominent role. He will look to fulfil his potential and establish himself as a key player in the Premier League.
Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The 23-year-old Netherlands International has performed well in the Premier League and has attracted the attention of Chelsea, Tottenham, and Newcastle United. Chelsea are prepared to pay £50 million in order to sign the player.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham and Newcastle are also keen on him. It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs can get the deal done.
The goalkeeper is reportedly open to a move in the summer. He will be excited about the possibility of joining a big club like Chelsea. The Blues need a reliable goalkeeper, and Robert Sanchez has not lived up to expectations. The Spanish goalkeeper has been linked with a move away from Chelsea for several months. It remains to be seen whether the Blues can get a deal across the line for the Dutch goalkeeper.
Verbruggen is a young player with significant potential, and he could sort out the Chelsea goalkeeping department for the foreseeable future. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be hard for the young goalkeeper. Even though the £50 million investment might seem expensive, the player has the potential to justify it in the future.
Tottenham could use an upgrade on Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian goalkeeper can be quite unconvincing when dealing with aerial balls and set pieces. The 23-year-old could have helped them improve in that area of the pitch. Similarly, Newcastle need a long-term replacement for Nick Pope.
Real Madrid forward Endrick has done quite well since joining Lyon on loan, and Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to sign him at the end of the season.
According to a report from Fichajes, they are prepared to spend around €100 million to sign the player. The 19-year-old is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he has registered five goals and an assist in six appearances for the French outfit so far.
Spurs want to make him the face of their attack for the next decade. They believe that the “promising talent” could be worth the investment in future. It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid is willing to sanction his departure.
There is no doubt that he is an elite talent, and losing him could be a blow for the Spanish club. Spurs need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the Brazilian could be ideal for Tottenham. He will add goals and creativity to the team. He can operate on the flanks as well as Central. He could be the dynamic attacker they are looking for.
Meanwhile, the young attacker will be desperate for regular gametime. If Real Madrid cannot provide him with that opportunity, he should like to move on. Regular football could bring out the best in him and help him fulfil his potential. The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for him. Regular football in England could accelerate his development.
It remains to be seen whether Tottenham follow up on their interest with an official offer. It has been a disappointing season for them, and Thomas Frank was sacked earlier today. It remains to be seen who they bring as the club’s new manager.
Who is Erling Haaland’s best friend in the football world? Hint: It’s another goalscorer from Manchester City’s recent 2-1 win over Liverpool, but it’s not Bernardo Silva. Haaland x Szoboszlai 🤝 #UCL pic.twitter.com/FIBADl3TMr — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 10, 2026 The two of them spent a year together at RB Salzburg, before becoming rivals […]
Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal to focus only on themselves in the title race and not get distracted by what the teams below them are doing. Arsenal opened up a nine-point lead at the top of the table on Saturday with their 3-0 win over Sunderland, but Manchester City’s dramatic victory over Liverpool the following […]
Keith Andrews has hit back at suggestions his Brentford predecessor Thomas Frank was out of his depth at Tottenham, saying: “I don’t know what goes on at Spurs.” Frank was sacked on Wednesday, just eight months after he arrived at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, after a damaging 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle United. His departure […]
Apple has just opened the proverbial floodgates by officially releasing the iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3, HomePod Software 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3 software updates. Apple iOS 26.3 goes official along with software updates for a wide range of Apple devices The iOS 26.3 software update includes the following changes as gleaned from the recent beta updates: Limit Precise Location Apple has added a new "limit precise location" feature, which limits carrier visibility to the neighborhood instead of the more precise street level. The following carriers will support this feature for now: Do note that this […]
Hello Games has just released Remnant, another free update for No Man's Sky. The patch (6.2) introduces gravity manipulation mechanics, extensive vehicle customization, and industrial waste processing facilities. The headline feature of Remnant is arguably the Gravitino Coil, a new Multi-Tool upgrade that fundamentally changes how players interact with the game world. This device allows travelers to magnetize, carry, and launch objects, creating entirely new gameplay possibilities through physics manipulation. No Man's Sky players are now able to grab and fling various items scattered across planets, including golden artifacts discovered in planetary ruins. However, the developers believe the tool's most […]
For the second year in a row, Xbox has revealed the games awarded with its signature stamp of excellence in the Xbox Excellence Awards. The awards list 20 titles in four categories, though several of them are repeats, which means only 55 individual titles have made the cut this year. Of those 55, included are titles like ARC Raiders, Battlefield 6, Helldivers 2, and Hollow Knight Silksong, all of which made the cut as some of the best-selling games on the Xbox platform in 2025. The games are listed alphabetically in the Xbox Wire post announcing the winners, so we […]
Verizon is showcasing its data throughput prowess this week after the Sunday's Super Bowl LX match in San Francisco, where the carrier says that it provided median download speeds of 2.16 Gbps at the height of the action. Verizon claims the data throughput it offered during this year's Super Bowl Sunday was the result of "nearly 200 individual network projects across the Bay Area" Verizon has just given a snapshot of the data throughput it powered via its dense network in the Bay Area: Do note that Verizon is the official 5G network of the NFL. As such, the network […]
We have another film adaptation of a video game to look forward to, and it's once again another PlayStation franchise to add to the list of adaptations under the belt of Sony and PlayStation Productions. This time, it's Fast & Furious director Justin Lin taking on an adaptation of Arrowhead Games' Helldivers, with Dune's Duncan Idaho, Jason Momoa, starring in the film. The news comes from a report from Deadline, which adds that the film will premiere next year, on November 10, 2027, with Lin's Perfect Storm Entertainment and PlayStation Productions producing the film. Other adaptations, whether they're set to […]
HP, one of the biggest PC manufacturers, has given its verdict on the ongoing DRAM shortages, and the solution is renting gaming laptops. Yeah, you read it right. HP Is Now Offering Four Different OMEN Laptop Configurations to Rent, And You'll Never Own the Device The DRAM supercycle has disrupted the PC supply chain, and it appears manufacturers have few options on board to mitigate the risks posed by rising DRAM prices. One solution discussed in the industry is sourcing Chinese memory modules, which is thought to be a cheaper option, but we won't go into that for now. In […]
ARC Raiders wouldn't be an extraction shooter if Embark Studios didn't have people asking you to bring stuff back from your trips Topside. That's why there are plenty of quests you'll be asked to complete for each of the traders featured. Though the actual tasks these quests require you to complete are relatively simple, they're not always simple to complete. Besides avoiding other players and ARCs to make it to your destination, if you're not thorough, you run the risk of needing multiple visits Topside just to get one objective completed. This guide will run you through how to complete […]
Microsoft has released an all-new version of Windows 11, 26H1, that is designed only to support the Snapdragon X2 and unnamed future bleeding-edge hardware. 26H1 will be device-specific, and PCs running Windows 11 25H2 can't upgrade to it.
The Wild West of web scraping is changing, due in large part to OpenAI’s deal with Disney. The deal allows OpenAI to train on high-fidelity, human-verified cinematic content – intended to combat AI slop fatigue.
This is how most of us feel when dealing with AI slop. Video production by Impolite.
This deal opens up new opportunities to reinforce your brand’s visibility and recall. AI models are hungry for high-quality data, and this shift turns video into an essential asset for your brand.
Here’s a breakdown of why video is the new source of truth for AI and how you can use it to protect your brand’s identity.
How AI brand drift happens
When a large language model’s training set lacks data on a specific brand, the LLM doesn’t admit that it doesn’t know. Instead, it interpolates, filling the gaps in your brand’s story. It makes guesses about your brand identity based on patterns from similar brands or general industry information.
This interpolation can lead to brand drift. Here’s what it looks like when an AI model narrates an inaccurate version of your business.
Say you represent a SaaS company. A user asks ChatGPT about one of your product’s features. But the model doesn’t have information about that specific feature.
So, the model constructs elaborate setup instructions, pricing tiers, and integration requirements for the phantom feature.
This has surfaced for companies like Streamer.bot, where users regularly arrive with confidently wrong instructions generated by ChatGPT – forcing teams to correct misinformation that the product never published.
A Streamer.bot team member describing how AI-generated setup instructions regularly misrepresent product behavior, creating confusion and additional support burden.
AI brand drift happens to local businesses, too. As one restaurant owner told Futurism, Google AI Overviews repeatedly shared false information about both specials and menu items.
To correct brand drift and prevent AI from distorting your brand message, your company must provide a canonical source of truth.
By producing authoritative videos (e.g., a demo that explicitly clarifies pricing), you provide strong semantic information through the transcript and visual proof. The video becomes the canonical source of truth that makes things clear, overriding opinions from Reddit and other sources.
In contrast, a text file contains low entropy. A statement like “50% off” is identical whether it was written in 2015 or 2025. Text often lacks the timestamp of reality, making it easy for AI to manipulate or lose the context of the real world.
To fix this, you need a medium with more data packed into every second. A five-minute video at 60 frames per second contains 18,000 frames of visual evidence, a nuanced audio track, and a text transcript.
Video enables LLMs to capture non-verbal, high-fidelity cues, creating a validation layer that preserves the visual evidence often flattened or lost in written content.
Creative studios like Berlin-based Impolite specialize in high-production-value video that provides the chaotic, non-repetitive entropy that AI needs to verify. The studio’s work for global brands serves as the high-density data source that prevents brand drift.
For example, Karman’s “The Space That Makes Us Human” project is a masterclass in creating a canonical source of truth, using high-fidelity, expert-led video to anchor brand identity.
As deepfakes proliferate, authenticity is shifting from a vague moral concept to a hard technical signal. Search engines and AI agents need a way to verify the provenance.
Is this video real? Is it from the brand it claims to be?
For AI models, real-world human footage is the ultimate high-trust data source. It provides physical evidence, such as a person speaking, a product in motion, or a specific location. In contrast, AI-generated video often lacks the chaotic, non-repetitive entropy of real-world light and physics.
The Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) is developing a new provenance standard to verify authenticity. The organization, which includes members such as Google, Adobe, Microsoft, and OpenAI, provides the technical specifications that enable this data to be cryptographically verifiable.
Together, the two organizations go beyond simple watermarking. They allow brands to sign videos the moment they begin recording, providing a signal that AI models can prioritize over unverified noise.
How media verification works: From lens to screen
Ever notice that tiny “CR” mark in the corner of certain media on LinkedIn? This label stands for content credentials. It appears on images and videos to indicate their origin and whether the creator used AI to produce or edit them.
When you click or hover over the “CR” icon on a LinkedIn post, a sidebar or pop-up appears that shows:
The creator: The name of the person or organization that produced the media
The tools used: Which software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop) the creator used to edit or generate the media
AI disclosure: A specific note if the content was generated with AI
The process: A history of edits made to the file to ensure the image hasn’t been deceptively altered
Some creators are already looking to circumvent the icon. Some have shared tips to hide the tag.
While some call it LinkedIn shaming, its presence signals authority. It’s also gaining traction.
For content marketers, adopting C2PA is a defensive moat against misinformation and a proactive signal of quality.
If a bad actor deepfakes your CEO, the absence of your corporate cryptographic signature acts as a silent alarm. Platforms and AI agents will immediately detect that the content lacks a verified origin seal and de-prioritize it in favor of authenticated assets.
Here’s how it works in practice.
1. Capture: The hardware root of trust
Select Sony cameras use the brand’s camera authenticity solution to embed digital signatures in real time. The signature uses keys held in a secure hardware chipset. Sony uses 3D depth data alongside the C2PA manifest rather than a 2D screen or a projection to verify that a real 3D subject was filmed.
Similarly, select Qualcomm’s products support a cryptographic seal that proves the photo’s authenticity. In addition, apps like Truepic and ProofMode can sign footage on standard devices.
2. Edit: The editorial ledger
C2PA-aware software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, integrates content credentials. This allows brands to embed a manifest listing the creator, edits, and software.
Think of it as a content ledger. Content credentials act as a digital paper trail, logging every hand that touches the file:
When an editor exports a video, the software preserves the original camera signature and appends a manifest of every cut and color grade.
If generative AI tools are used, relevant frames are tagged as AI-generated, preserving the integrity of the remaining human-verified footage.
3. Verify: Tamper-proof evidence in action
If the content is altered outside of a C2PA-compliant tool, the cryptographic link is severed.
When an AI model performs an evidence-weighting calculation to decide which information to show a user, it will see this broken signature.
Information overload is constant nowadays. Traditional gatekeepers are struggling because AI generates content faster than humans can verify it. Authenticity becomes scarce online as Audiences increasingly seek out authenticity and strive to distinguish signal from noise.
From LLMs to search engines like Google, AI systems struggle with the same challenge. Verified subject matter experts (SMEs) are emerging as critical differentiators and as guarantors of credibility and pertinence.
An SME is a human anchor point of credibility for both humans and machines. When brands pair expertise with verifiable video documentation, they create something AI can’t replicate: authentic authority that audiences can see, hear, and trust.
Why expert video should be the source material
A video transcript of an expert explaining a complex topic often captures colloquial, nuanced details that polished, static blog posts miss. Here’s how to use expert-led videos as the starting point of your content flywheel:
Text stream: Extract the transcript to create authoritative, long-form blogs, FAQs, and social captions. This provides the semantic foundation for text-based retrieval.
Visual stream: Pull high-quality frames for infographics and thumbnails. This provides visual proof that anchors the text.
Audio stream: Repurpose the audio for podcast distribution, capturing your expert’s tonal authority.
Discovery stream: Cut vertical TikTok and YouTube clips. These act as entry points that lead AI agents back to your canonical source.
By repurposing a single high-density video asset across these formats, you create a self-reinforcing loop of authority.
This increases the probability that an AI model will encounter and index your brand’s expertise in the format that the model prefers. For example, Gemini might index the video, while Perplexity might index the transcript.
It doesn’t have to be fancy, as this clip from Search with Sean shows:
Before you hit record, identify where your brand is most vulnerable to AI drift. To maximize the surface area for AI retrieval, proceed this way:
Identify the gap: Where is AI hallucinating elements of your story? Find the topics where your brand voice is missing or being misrepresented by outdated Reddit posts or competitor noise.
Anchor with verified experts: Use real people with verifiable credentials. AI agents now cross-reference experts against LinkedIn data and professional knowledge graphs to weigh the authority of the content.
Preserve the nuance: Marketing and legal departments often strip it from blog posts, making them generic. Video preserves the colloquial, detailed explanations that signal true expertise.
With infinite, low-cost AI slop cropping up, it’s going to get harder and harder to fight deepfakes. But it’s harder for an AI to hallucinate a real physical event than a sentence.
The most valuable asset a brand owns is its verifiable expertise. By anchoring your brand in expert-led, multimodal video, you ensure that your identity remains consistent, protected, and prioritized.
A clear hierarchy of data is emerging: high-fidelity, cryptographically signed video is the premium currency. For every other brand, the mandate is simple: Record reality. If you don’t provide a signed, high-density video record of your business, the AI will hallucinate one for you.
Generative engine optimization (GEO) is the practice of positioning your brand and content so that AI platforms like Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and Perplexity cite, recommend, or mention you when users search for answers.
If that sounds abstract, the results aren’t.
For bootstrapped form builder tool, Tally, ChatGPT became the #1 referral source.
They’re not alone. Across industries, the shift is already measurable.
ChatGPT reaches over 800 million weekly users. Google’s Gemini app has surpassed 750 million monthly users. And AI Overviews are appearing in at least 16% of all searches (significantly higher for comparison and high-intent queries).
The question isn’t whether AI is changing discovery. It’s whether your brand is showing up when it happens.
So GEO is real. But is it stable enough to invest in seriously?
That’s a fair question.
When we tracked 2,500 prompts across Google AI Mode and ChatGPT through the Semrush AI Visibility Index, the first thing we noticed was volatility.
Between 40 and 60% of cited sources change from month to month.
But underneath the variances, patterns emerged.
The brands showing up consistently shared specific structural characteristics. Entity clarity, content extractability, multi-platform presence made them easier for AI systems to find, trust, and reference.
In this guide, I’ll share what we’ve found about what GEO requires, how it differs from SEO, and the framework for increasing your visibility in AI-driven discovery.
What GEO Looks Like in Practice
GEO helps your brand appear in AI-generated answers.
For example, when someone asks an AI tool “What is the best whey protein powder for a mom in their 50s,” the response typically evaluates brands and recommends options based on ingredients, reviews, and credibility signals.
If your content or brand is included in that response, it’s an example of GEO in action.
Getting there requires coordinated effort across several areas:
Content strategy: Publishing information that AI systems can discover, understand, and extract for answers
Brand presence: Establishing your authority across platforms where AI tools pull information (not just your website)
Technical Optimization: Ensuring AI crawlers can access and process your content
Reputation Building: Earning mentions and associations that signal credibility to AI systems
These activities overlap with traditional SEO, but the emphasis shifts.
How GEO Differs from Traditional SEO
GEO builds on the same SEO fundamentals you already use. But it shifts the focus from rankings and clicks to how your brand is mentioned and cited inside AI-generated answers.
Here’s a snapshot of some key differences between GEO and traditional SEO:
What Changes
Traditional SEO
GEO
Primary goal
Rank in top search positions
Be referenced or mentioned in AI answers
Success metrics
Rankings, clicks, traffic
Citations, mentions, share of voice
How users find you
Click through to your site
AI includes you in generated responses
Key platforms
Google, Bing
Google AI Overviews and AI Mode, ChatGPT, Perplexity
How you optimize content
Title tags, keywords, site speed, content quality
Self-contained paragraphs, clear facts, structured data
Positive mentions across trusted platforms and communities
Use this table to update your mental model.
Traditional SEO fundamentals still matter. We’re just adapting how we apply them as AI systems change how people discover information.
Now, let’s break down what this means in practice.
What Stays the Same
The core principles behind effective SEO still apply to GEO.
You still need to publish high-quality, authoritative content for real users. Your site still needs to be technically accessible. You still need credible signals of trust and expertise. And you still need to understand user intent and deliver clear value.
AI systems tend to reference content that is authoritative, well-structured, and easy to interpret. Those are the same qualities that support strong SEO performance.
If you already have a solid SEO foundation, GEO builds on it rather than replacing it.
Where GEO diverges is in how that foundation is applied.
1. Where You Need Presence
Traditional SEO focuses primarily on your owned properties, i.e. your website and blog.
GEO benefits from strategic presence across platforms where AI tools discover information, including:
Reddit threads where your target audience asks questions
YouTube videos demonstrating your expertise
Industry publications that establish your authority
Review sites where customers discuss solutions
Social platforms where conversations happen
2. How You Structure Information
AI systems extract specific passages from your content to construct answers. They pull a paragraph here, a statistic there, and weave them together.
This changes how you need to structure information.
When you’re explaining a concept, defining a term, or sharing data, that paragraph should ideally work on its own. AI systems often extract these substantive passages without the conversational setup around them. (We’ll cover the mechanics of how this works in the strategic framework later.)
You need clear headings to help AI identify which section answers which question.
Also, putting answers early in sections may make them easier for AI to find and extract.
Traditional SEO often rewards comprehensive coverage. GEO places more emphasis on content that’s easy to extract and reassemble. We’re still learning exactly how different AI systems prioritize structure, but clarity consistently helps.
3. What You Measure
Traditional SEO metrics like rankings, clicks, and bounce rate tell part of the story.
GEO adds new measurements, like:
AI visibility score: A benchmark of how often and where your brand appears in AI-generated answers
Share of voice: Your visibility compared to competitors in AI responses
Sentiment: Whether mentions are positive, neutral, or negative
Context or prompt: What questions or topics trigger mentions of your brand
Together, these metrics help you understand not just whether you’re visible, but how your brand is being positioned inside AI-generated responses.
You need both traditional SEO metrics and AI visibility metrics to understand your full organic search presence in 2026.
Note: You can track these metrics using Semrush’s Enterprise AIO, which monitors your brand’s visibility across AI platforms like ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, and Perplexity.
It provides granular tracking of mentions, sentiment, share of voice, and competitive benchmarking to help you optimize your AI visibility strategy.
5 Principles for AI Visibility: A Strategic Framework
An effective GEO strategy rests on five connected principles that work together to maximize your AI visibility.
(As AI systems evolve, specific patterns may shift, but these underlying principles provide a stable foundation.)
Each one addresses how AI systems discover, evaluate, and reference your brand.
Let’s look at them in detail.
1. SEO Fundamentals Are the Foundation
SEO fundamentals still matter for GEO, but for a different reason than in traditional search.
In AI-driven discovery, these fundamentals still function as optimization levers, but they influence retrieval, interpretation, and attribution rather than rankings alone.
They create the baseline conditions that allow AI systems to retrieve information, interpret it accurately, and attribute it to a source with confidence.
For instance, AI-generated answers are assembled from content that is accessible, readable, and attributable.
When accessibility, readability, or clear attribution are weak, even strong content becomes harder for AI systems to surface or reference reliably.
This is why many sources cited by AI platforms share characteristics long associated with solid SEO foundations.
The overlap exists because clarity and reliability still matter across discovery systems, even as the surfaces change.
Technical accessibility plays a role here.
Content that cannot be consistently crawled, indexed, or rendered introduces uncertainty at the retrieval layer.
Page performance has a similar effect. Slower or unstable experiences don’t block inclusion outright. But they reduce how dependable a source appears when answers are assembled.
JavaScript-heavy implementations highlight this dynamic.
Many AI crawlers still struggle to consistently process client-side rendered content, which can make core information harder to extract or interpret.
When that happens, AI systems have less certainty about using the content as a reference point.
But technical setup is only part of the equation.
AI systems also assess content quality and credibility. Information that reflects real experience, clear expertise, and identifiable authorship is easier to contextualize and trust.
Signals associated with E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust) influence not just whether content is referenced, but how it is framed within an answer.
Taken together, these foundations explain why SEO still underpins GEO. Not as a ranking system, but as the infrastructure that makes AI visibility possible.
Entities help AI systems understand and categorize information on the web. This includes distinguishing your brand from similar names, identifying what category you belong to, and understanding which topics you’re credible for.
AI systems don’t just read words. They interpret structure.
Before schema ever comes into play, they look for clear signals about:
What your brand is
What category it belongs to
What it offers
What it’s authoritative for
The most reliable way to provide those signals is through well-structured information.
If those signals are unclear or inconsistent, AI systems have less confidence when deciding whether and how to reference you.
Take monday.com as an example. When AI systems crawl websites and process information, they see “monday” mentioned in many different contexts.
Clear, consistent descriptions across the site and supporting sources help AI understand that monday.com refers to project management software. Not the day of the week.
The same principle applies to category clarity. If you sell organic dog food, AI needs to categorize your brand under pet nutrition, not general groceries or pet accessories.
When someone asks “what’s the best grain-free dog food,” AI is more likely to consider brands it can clearly place in the correct category.
On a product page, it should be unambiguous what each element represents — the product name, the description, the price, the attributes, availability and variants.
That clarity needs to exist in the visible page content first.
Schema markup can then mirror that structure in a machine-readable format (typically JSON-LD). And that same structured understanding should also be reflected in downstream systems, like your product feed submitted to Google Merchant Center.
In other words, the page structure, the schema markup, and the commerce feed should all describe the same thing in the same way.
The goal isn’t to “add schema.” The goal is to make your information logically structured so machines can consistently understand it across systems.
This is important because we don’t know how structured data is used inside large language models. Or how exactly schema influences training, retrieval, or real-time answer generation.
But we do know this: AI systems cross-reference signals from multiple sources and formats.
Your brand description on LinkedIn should align with what appears on your site. Profiles on Crunchbase, review platforms, or industry directories should reinforce the same category, positioning, and value proposition.
When these signals are consistent across sources, AI systems can categorize and reference your brand with greater confidence. When they conflict, confidence drops, and your brand is less likely to be mentioned.
This is why entity clarity isn’t just about a single markup tactic. It comes from designing your content and presence so machines can reliably understand who you are, what you offer, and where you belong wherever your brand appears.
Tip: You can check if your site has missing structured data that makes entity relationships unclear — along with other issues that could potentially be hurting your AI search visibility — using Semrush’s Site Audit.
3. Content Must Be Easy to Extract and Reuse
If entity clarity determines whether AI systems consider your content at all, extractability determines which specific parts get pulled into AI-generated answers.
This principle operates at the retrieval layer.
AI systems don’t consume pages the way humans do. When generating answers, they retrieve specific passages from across the web and assemble them into a response.
Here’s how it works mechanically:
LLMs break content into chunks, convert those chunks into numerical representations (vectors), and retrieve the most relevant passages when assembling an answer.
Those retrieved chunks are then synthesized into a response — often without the surrounding context from your original page.
This has practical implications.
Based on what we’ve observed, passages that retain meaning when read in isolation are more likely to be retrieved and used accurately. Passages that rely on conversational setup or references like “as mentioned above” or “this is why” tend to lose clarity when extracted.
Now this may not apply to every paragraph on a page.
But paragraphs that contain definitions, explanations, comparisons, or key facts should ideally stand on their own. These are the passages AI systems are most likely to extract without the surrounding narrative.
So what makes content extractable?
Self-contained paragraphs: Each paragraph expresses one complete idea that makes sense on its own, without vague references to surrounding text
Specific facts and statistics: Concrete numbers and clear statements are easier for AI to extract than vague generalizations
Clear, descriptive headings: Headings signal what each section covers, helping AI understand content organization
Front-loaded information: The main point appears at the start of paragraphs rather than at the end
One important distinction: This principle mainly applies to retrieval-augmented systems — like Google AI Mode and Perplexity with grounding, and ChatGPT with browsing enabled. These systems get content in real-time.
For base model knowledge (what the LLM learned during training), content structure is less important. That knowledge comes from training, not from retrieving per-query. Building presence in training data takes time and requires consistent, authoritative publishing.
Below is an example of self-contained content that AI systems can easily extract and reference.
It answers a single, well-defined question: which sources AI platforms rely on for finance-related queries
The main takeaway is stated immediately, without setup
Supporting context (platforms, percentages, category) is included within the same frame
The insight makes sense on its own, even if quoted or summarized elsewhere
The same extractability principle shows up in everyday writing as well.
For example, compare these two ways of explaining the same cooking technique:
Hard to extract: “There are several reasons this method works. After trying it, most people find their eggplant tastes better. That’s why many chefs use it.”
Easy to extract: “Salting eggplant for 15 minutes before cooking removes bitterness and excess moisture. This technique improves the final texture.”
Both explain the same idea. But the second version states the technique, timing, benefit, and result clearly, which makes it easy for AI to extract as a standalone passage.
Here are other examples:
When content is structured this way, AI systems can reliably retrieve relevant passages and include them in answers.
Over time, that increases the likelihood that your expertise is surfaced accurately when users ask questions related to your domain.
4. AI Visibility Extends Beyond Your Website
AI systems don’t just pull from your website when building answers. They gather information from YouTube, Reddit, review sites, industry publications, social platforms, and more.
This creates two opportunities for visibility:
(I) Your Owned Presence
Owned presence is content you or your team create on platforms beyond your website.
Your YouTube channel showing product features gives AI video content to reference
Your company’s participation in relevant subreddit discussions shows expertise in action
Your executives’ LinkedIn newsletters establish thought leadership
Podcasts, webinars, conference presentations, and educational platforms provide additional long-form content AI systems can extract from.
These platforms often play an important role in AI discovery.
In fact, Reddit, Linkedin, and YouTube were among the top cited sources by the top LLMs in October 2025.
When your brand creates valuable content on these platforms, you give AI systems more material to draw from.
But the key is creating substantive, helpful content that addresses real problems in your industry.
(II) Earned Mentions
Earned mentions are references to your brand that you don’t directly control.
Customer reviews on G2, Capterra, or Trustpilot describe real experiences with your product
Industry journalists mentioning your company in news articles provide third-party validation
Community discussions on Reddit or Quora where users recommend your solution show authentic sentiment. Like this:
When multiple independent sources discuss your brand in relevant contexts, AI systems have clearer signals to interpret your credibility.
Side note: Tools like Semrush’s AI PR Toolkit make this easier to evaluate at scale. Beyond counting earned mentions, it shows how your brand is framed across sources, including whether mentions skew positive, neutral, or negative.
This metric can be very important as you work to extend brand visibility beyond your website. Because sentiment influences how AI systems frame your brand in answers, not just whether they mention you at all.
Why Both Matter
Owned presence and earned mentions work together.
Your owned content demonstrates expertise and provides detailed information AI can reference. Earned mentions from customers and industry sources validate your credibility.
When AI systems encounter both, they build a comprehensive understanding of what you offer.
This owned and earned content may also become part of LLM training data in the future, shaping how AI systems learn about and reference your brand long-term.
5. Visibility Is Measured Differently in AI Search
Traditional SEO metrics (like rankings, clicks, and traffic) only tell part of the story. But they had one major advantage: the attribution path was clear.
A user clicked, landed on your site, and either converted or didn’t. You could tie that traffic directly to revenue.
AI search breaks that path. When an AI tool recommends your product to a user, they might never click through to your site. The conversion may still happen — they Google your brand name later, sign up the following week — but your analytics won’t connect it back to the AI mention that started it.
That’s the real measurement challenge. It’s not just that the metrics are different. It’s that the link between visibility and revenue becomes harder to trace.
The value here isn’t just the click. It’s being part of the answer.
This requires measuring your visibility differently.
Here are the key metrics to consider:
Citation frequency: This measures how often AI platforms mention your brand when answering questions
Share of voice: Your mention rate compared to competitors. If an AI answers 100 questions about “best CRM,” how many times do you appear vs. your rivals? This reveals your true competitive position.
Context tracking: Where do you appear? Understanding which specific prompts or topics trigger your brand mentions helps you identify the subjects you own versus where you’re invisible.
Sentiment: Are the mentions positive, neutral, or negative? A high share of voice means nothing if the AI is telling users your product is “overpriced” or “buggy.”
The challenge is that traditional analytics platforms (like GA4 or Google Search Console) cannot track these signals. They only see what happens after a click.
This creates a “measurement blind spot.” You might be the most mentioned brand in ChatGPT, but your standard dashboards would show zero activity.
Platforms like Semrush’s AI Visibility Toolkit are built to solve this specific problem. They help quantify these “invisible” GEO metrics, turning qualitative data (like sentiment and mention frequency) into trackable numbers.
Its Brand Performance report shows how visible your brand is in AI answers, how you compare to competitors, and whether mentions skew positive, neutral, or negative.
The toolkit also highlights AI visibility insights, helping you understand how your brand is currently interpreted in AI answers and where adjustments may improve visibility.
Ultimately, a modern search strategy requires monitoring two distinct dashboards:
One for your website’s performance (rankings and traffic) in traditional search. And one for your brand’s mentions across AI search
You need both to see the full picture.
What This Framework Doesn’t Guarantee
These principles increase your probability of appearing in AI answers. They don’t guarantee it.
The volatility in AI citations means even well-optimized brands experience fluctuation.
Different AI platforms weigh signals differently. User context and conversation history affect what gets cited. And AI systems are evolving rapidly — what works today may shift as models update.
Think of GEO like brand building: you’re increasing your odds across many moments of potential visibility, not securing a fixed position.
The brands that do this well show up more often, more accurately, and in better context. But there’s no “rank #1” equivalent to chase.
That realism isn’t a reason to ignore GEO. It’s a reason to approach it as an ongoing discipline. Showing up consistently, across surfaces, over time, is how you build trust with AI systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the biggest misconception about GEO right now?
The biggest misconception is that AI-generated answers are too volatile to optimize for.
While individual responses change, the underlying inputs do not. AI systems consistently rely on durable signals like authority, clarity, and trust. Brands with strong entity clarity and credible sources appear repeatedly, even as surface-level outputs fluctuate. The patterns are stable enough to act on.
Is GEO replacing SEO?
No, GEO builds on SEO fundamentals.
Traditional SEO optimizes for rankings and clicks. GEO optimizes for mentions, citations, and recommendations inside AI-generated answers.
They work together. Strong SEO creates the foundation (technical accessibility, quality content, credibility signals) that AI systems rely on when deciding which brands to reference.
How should we think about GEO in the bigger AI search shift?
The clearest way to frame it is as a hierarchy.
AI search is the environment
AI SEO is the practice
AI visibility is the outcome
GEO sits inside AI SEO as one way to improve visibility within generative systems. The goal is not optimizing for a single model or interface. The goal is being seen, trusted, and reused wherever people search for answers.
What types of content are more likely to appear in generative AI responses?
Content that is easy for AI systems to retrieve, understand, and reuse is most likely to appear in generative AI responses.
In practice, this means clear, direct answers to specific questions, self-contained explanations, fact-based comparisons, and concise definitions that make sense without surrounding context. AI systems tend to pull individual passages, not entire pages, so structure and clarity matter more than length.
Does AI search favor large, well-known brands, or does GEO level the playing field?
Well-known brands often start with more authority, but they don’t automatically win. Smaller publishers can compete when they own a clearly defined topic, show up consistently across platforms, and are easy for AI systems to understand and trust.
In practice, focused niche sites may outperform larger brands when their expertise is clearer, better structured, and tightly aligned with specific audience needs.
What’s the right way to think about GEO moving forward?
The right way to think about GEO is as a long-term visibility discipline, not a short-term optimization tactic.
Success comes from making your expertise clear, consistent, and reusable wherever AI systems look for answers. That requires strong alignment across content, SEO, brand, PR, product, and customer touchpoints.
AI search does not change the goal of helping users. It raises the standard for coherence, accuracy, and trust across the entire web.
The cryptocurrency market is experiencing sharp volatility today, wiping out billions of dollars in value within hours as both global stocks and digital assets move lower together.
The total crypto market has lost nearly $90 billion, pushing many major coins to their daily lows. At the same time, U.S. stock indices also slipped, showing that investors are becoming more careful across financial markets.
Major cryptocurrencies fall quickly
Bitcoin dropped below $66,000, falling nearly $3,000 in about one hour, which triggered roughly $70 million in long-position liquidations. Ethereum also declined, touching around $1,900, while several altcoins posted losses between 4% and 7%.
BREAKING: Bitcoin dumped $3,000 in just 60 minutes and liquidated $70 million in longs.
Market sentiment has turned extremely weak, with the Fear and Greed Index falling into “extreme fear” territory, a signal that traders are becoming more defensive and risk-averse.
Why the market is falling
Analysts say several factors are driving today’s crypto decline:
1. Stock market weakness Major U.S. indices such as the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 moved lower, and crypto markets often follow the same direction, especially during uncertain economic periods.
2. Liquidations accelerating the drop As prices started falling, leveraged traders were forced to close positions, causing additional selling pressure and faster price declines.
3. Bitcoin behaving like tech stocks A recent report from Grayscale Investments said that Bitcoin is currently moving more like high-growth technology stocks rather than a traditional safe-haven asset such as gold. This means that when technology stocks face pressure, crypto prices often fall as well.
Oversold signals appear
Despite the sharp drop, some technical indicators show that the market is approaching oversold levels, which sometimes leads to short-term rebounds. However, analysts warn that volatility may continue until investors regain confidence and buying demand returns.
Galatasaray Kulübü'nün şubat ayı olağan divan kurulu toplantısı sona erdi. Toplantıda konuşma yapan Galatasaray Kulübü İkinci Başkanı Metin Öztürk, "Fenerbahçe Kulübü, Bankalar Birliği Anlaşması'ndan Galatasaray'ı taklit ederek çıktı. Beşiktaş Kulübü de Galatasaray'ı taklit etmek için yetki aldı." dedi.
Ethereum price is consolidating at a critical high-volume support near $1,800, but fading bullish participation raises the risk of a deeper corrective move and potential capitulation lower.
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Real Madrid have joined Spanish rivals Barcelona in withdrawing from the European Super League. Barcelona confirmed last week that they had pulled out of the project. The Blaugrana, Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter, AC Milan, Manchester City, Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea had initially tried to form the breakaway competition in 2021. Madrid […]
CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Lindsey Vonn had a “successful” third surgery on her broken left leg following her downhill crash at the Olympics, the American skier said Wednesday
Vonn posted an update on Instagram that included photos of her giving a thumbs up sign in her hospital bed with a metal frame attached to her leg.
“I had my 3rd surgery today and it was successful. Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago,” Vonn said. “I’m making progress and while it is slow, I know I’ll be ok.”
“Thankful for all of the incredible medical staff, friends, family, who have been by my side and the beautiful outpouring of love and support from people around the world,” Vonn added. “Also, huge congrats to my teammates and all of the Team USA athletes who are out there inspiring me and giving me something to cheer for.”
After the Super Bowl, the NFL has seen a lot of topics fly following the Seattle Seahawks dismantling of the New England Patriots. Among those, Patriots 2025 first-round pick Will Campbell’s struggles on the biggest stage. Many analysts immediately point to his below-average arm length as the main struggle. However, two NFL legends have chimed in–giving Campbell some advice.
First, longtime Cincinnati Bengals’ legend Willie Anderson gave his thoughts on the struggles of Campbell. Specifically, he gave a player to model his game after.
Look no further than @T_Armstead72 I believe is who Will Campbell should mirror his game off of! His feet and hands were always together. He had a really really good jump set and he wasn’t the 330 pound tackle OG my era . If I trained Will this is who we would take some gems from…
Anderson, who finished as a 2026 Hall of Fame finalist, pointed to another legend in Terron Armstead. Armstead played 12 seasons in the NFL and became one of the faces of stability at offensive tackle.
Anderson believes Campbell’s footwork and hand placement could be key in turning the page of these struggles. Armstead had a chance to also chime in when Cameron Wolfe spoke to him about the former LSU Tiger’s struggles.
A convo about Patriots LT Will Campbell Super Bowl struggles including my chat with former Pro Bowl LT Terron Armstead on why arm length isn’t the issue, what is the problem + @T_Armstead72 offer to help Will in Dallas this offseason.
It will ultimately be up to Campbell to bounce back and accept their offers. However, one thing is clear: two NFL legends believe his improvements rest in the refinement of the basics–not measurables.
Shane Van Gisbergen didn’t come to America to keep racing on road courses, he could have remained in Supercars to do that, so the decrease in road courses and a key NASCAR rule change doesn’t bother him any.
Maybe more important to his success is that NASCAR reverted to the Chase for the Championship format this season, meaning ‘SVG’ can no longer simply win his way into the playoffs. He won five times last year, all on road and street courses in his full-time rookie season but otherwise would have finished outside the top-20 in a straight-up points battle.
However, he also started to acclimate to ovals at the end of the year and still finished 12th in the final playoff standings. The purist in him won’t miss the Playoffs.
“Not the real racer in me,” said Van Gisbergen on Wednesday during Daytona 500 Media Day. “I think we can make it in on merit as well if we get everything right. I think it loses some excitement in some ways but as a racing championship, I think this is a better way to do it, yeah.”
What about NASCAR taking away two road courses with the loss of Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez and the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL?
“I didn’t join the series to do road courses,” Van Gisbergen said. “Obviously, it’s a bonus and yeah, I would love more road courses than less but it is what it is and thankfully we are getting better on the ovals, so that’s good.”
The 2025 season was only the second of any kind that ‘SVG’ raced primarily on ovals, first in the Xfinity Series and then Cup, and even that transition forced him to adapt to two drastically different cars too.
With that said, there were some highlights on ovals, like ripping the fence at Richmond. He was highly competitive at Kansas and New Hampshire in the fall too. There were moments where it started to visibly click for the three-time Supercars champion.
“It's still an evolving thing, you know, so I don't feel like as much of a deer in headlights anymore, which is cool,” Van Gisbergen said. “I sort of feel like I fit in more and can go with the rhythm of the race more over the weekends.
“But I'm still learning a lot. I didn’t know where to start with the driving, the set-ups, the cars and the racing dynamic like how the surface changes. There are so many different things. It’s a completely different discipline to any other driving.”
Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet
Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet
How about the short tracks, specifically?
“No, I don't think so,” he said. “I still struggle on them, like Bristol for example and Phoenix, they've been probably my toughest tracks. So those are the ones I'm focused on more to try to get better at.”
So all told, ‘SVG’ wants to just keep progressing.
“I've never really been a goal person,” he said. “Making the playoffs would be nice but I just need to keep getting better and keep learning, I guess.”
Nate Oats' Alabama Crimson Tide head into Wednesday's matchup against the Ole Miss Rebels with back-to-back impressive wins under their belts in SEC basketball play.
Alabama (16-7 overall, 6-4 conference) picked up a 100-97 win over Texas A&M at Coleman Coliseum before going to Neville Arena and beating rival Auburn for the second straight year on the Tigers' home court.
Labaron Philon had 25 points to go with five rebounds and six assists in a 96-92 win over Auburn on Saturday. Alabama trailed by 10 points at one point but used an 11-2 near the end of the first half and outscored the Tigers 59-51 in the second half.
Amari Allen had 17 points and Aden Holloway added 15. Moreover, Alabama was much improved at the charity stripe; the Tide made 87 percent of its foul shots and were 18 of 20 from the free-throw line in the second half.
Alabama remained unranked in Monday's USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll and AP Top 25 poll, but the Crimson Tide received the most votes (72) for top 25 consideration in the AP poll.
Here's a look at where Alabama basketball sits in the updated NET rankings and KenPom ratings ahead of its matchup with Ole Miss.
After beating Auburn, Alabama remains No. 23 overall in the NET rankings, the same spot as last week.
However, two of Alabama's victories this season were upgraded to Quadrant 1 wins: the Tide's 83-81 win at Oklahoma on Jan. 17, and their 90-84 win over the Clemson Tigers (20-4) in the ACC/SEC Challenge on Dec. 3 in Tuscaloosa.
Alabama's win at Auburn was a Quadrant 1 win, as well. The Tide's three other Quad 1 victories include theirs wins over St. John's, Illinois and Kentucky.
Here's a breakdown of Alabama's résumé.
vs. Quad 1 opponents: 6-6
vs. Quad 2 opponents: 5-1
vs. Quad 3 opponents: 3-0
vs. Quad 4 opponents: 2-0
A win over Ole Miss in Oxford on Wednesday would rate as a Quad 2 victory.
Alabama rises in KenPom ratings after beating Auburn
Alabama is No. 20 in Wednesday's updated KenPom ratings after Saturday's win at Auburn. That's up one spot from before the win at Neville Arena.
The Crimson Tide have an overall rating of +24.95 (up from +24.47), including a 127.8 rating on offense that's No. 2 nationally in KenPom behind only Illinois. The Tide's 102.9 defensive rating is 65th nationally.
In the overall team rankings, Alabama is one spot below No. 19 Iowa and one spot ahead of No. 21 BYU.
Alabama basketball schedule 2026: Are the Crimson Tide playing today?
Alabama faces the Ole Miss Rebels (11-12, 3-7) Wednesday at SJB Pavilion in Oxford. Tipoff for Alabama-Ole Miss is 6 p.m. CT. The game will be televised on SEC Network.
Here's a game by game look at Alabama's 2025-26 men's basketball schedule.
Noah Dalzell: Celtics Injury Report Update vs. Chicago (2/11): Sam Hauser - AVAILABLE Neemias Queta - AVAILABLE Jayson Tatum - Right Achilles Repair - OUT
It was almost immediately into Thomas Frank’s brief time in charge that certain figures at Tottenham Hotspur realised that the adjustment might be more difficult than anticipated. The Dane had asked a casual and understandable question about squad “discipline”, and how it was taken care of.
At Brentford, after all, the club was so meticulously structured that staff members were assigned to such responsibilities.
At Spurs, this was the manager’s job.
The difference offers one of many reasons that explain why Frank failed - and that more spectacularly than anyone could have imagined - but also why Spurs still have so much to fix.
The identity of the head coach is only the most immediate of their problems, to say nothing of survival.
Frank walked into “a basket case of a club”, multiple sources tell the Independent, but also created many big problems of his own.
On that issue of discipline, Frank’s control over the group is understood to have been “loose”, which eventually gave way to total collapse.
Tottenham Hotspur's Djed Spence and Dominic Solanke look dejected after defeat to Newcastle (REUTERS)
Although an expensive squad, it was not one primed and focused for success in the way Arsenal are, to use an example ill-advisedly repeated by Frank on a regular basis. Tactical messages weren’t sinking in, partly because they weren’t convincing. So many messages were geared toward defensive protection rather than taking the game to the opposition. The best performances seemed to come when the squad took matches into their own hands, which some sources maintain was a continuation of last season’s Europa League campaign. The same injury issues also persisted.
The 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United just proved the football nadir that no one could go beyond. It was like something had finally gone. Players were now losing almost every duel. Newcastle, a team going through real struggles themselves, were enjoying a rare amount of space.
This has been coming.
It’s all why some of the Spurs leadership felt they should sack Frank as long ago as four months ago, the Independent understands. They could see this. Certain figures in the hierarchy then pushed that again just before Christmas, until it became a repeated subject of debate every Saturday over January.
Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario shows his frustration (PA Wire)
Figures close to the board were even complaining about “Groundhog Day” as it felt like they were having the same discussion every weekend.
The 2-1 home defeat to West Ham proved especially painful, which really should have been the point of no return. The atmosphere in the stadium was toxic. This was a licence to act.
As it was, a core of the hierarchy - led by chief executive Vinai Venkatesham - pointed to multiple bigger issues around Frank; precisely these issues of “structure” that the new leadership now realised they had to solve. Sources say Venkatesham and others gestured to Frank’s adaptation, the ongoing injury crisis and the more important idea of taking the long view.
The short term - in other words, every single match - just kept making that stance untenable. To repeat a phrase used about Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United, you can appeal all the extraneous reasons you want, but performances were unwatchable and results unjustifiable. As with Amorim, Spurs were performing to a level which just shouldn’t be possible with their wage bill. It was chronic underperformance.
Thomas Frank’s reign unravelled at Spurs (AP)
This ongoing split in the hierarchy nevertheless points to this bigger problem, which is not just how the next manager is decided on, but how such decisions are taken at Spurs at all.
Such was Daniel Levy’s control that there has been an obvious vacuum since he left in September. The primary authorities now are the family of former owner Joe Lewis, who now runs the club through a trust. Daughter Vivienne Lewis is the most involved of those, with son-in-law Nick Beucher also influential. They are still very much getting to grips with the football industry, though. And while there is considerable respect for Venkatesham in the game, he is seen as someone who tries to come to consensus conclusions rather than assertively make decisions.
Noise about a prospective takeover only adds to the uncertainty. This is repeatedly denied, but the point is that this is not how you acquire stability.
Thomas Frank gestures on the touchline (PA Wire)
None of this would be a problem, however, if Spurs had a functioning football structure. They’ve instead lost a director of football and now another manager in the space of a few months, as they work to build something that an elite modern club should have. Too much had been built towards Levy for far too long.
Hence, as more than one former coach has pointed out, they have constantly seemed to shift from one profile of coach to the opposite. An ill-fitting squad is a product of that. Worse, “that squad has multiple football scars,” to quote one source. The majority have mostly experienced dysfunction while at the club.
From that, it should be acknowledged that there was a logic to appointing Frank. On that, it should still be stressed that there was a logic to appointing Frank. The analytics gave a persuasive case, ultimately convincing Levy, and the Dane had repeatedly spoken of wanting to play a more expansive game with better resources - including in interviews to Manchester United and Chelsea.
The core problem was that Frank couldn’t work to the same level without the structure around him, and quickly found himself overwhelmed. That became seen in media interviews, where the Dane had previously cut such a rounded figure. The extra scrutiny of a club like Spurs weighed on him. Unlike at Brentford, you couldn’t go three months without winning a game while being allowed to find your feet.
Thomas Frank embraces Pedro Porro (Getty Images)
The noise around the club, as was heard in the stands, became too much. Once it got so toxic during that West Ham defeat, there was really no recovery.
That’s why there was an even greater logic in dispensing with Frank long before. The signs were clear.
The Spurs hierarchy is now so conscious of this “toxicity” among the fanbase that they realise they need a “unity candidate”. That has led to the obvious and ideal choice of Mauricio Pochettino. Some on the board are pushing to make it happen now.
It is understood that there has repeatedly been informal contact over 2026.
The feeling is nevertheless that Pochettino won’t leave the US job before the World Cup. Spurs would consider an interim until then, but there aren’t too many viable candidates. Johnny Heitinga may step up.
Mauricio Pochettino could emerge as an option to succeed Thomas Frank (Reuters)
As multiple sources argue, “this sums it up - outside Pochettino, it looks like they don’t currently have a proper plan”. That’s partly why some just hoped that Frank would work out, even for a time. They were hoping for space. That’s also why they could go in a total opposition direction, and seek to get Roberto De Zerbi in. Again, it’s one extreme to another.
Spurs at least have another 11 days before their next game to figure this out. On the other side of that, though, it’s a north London derby against the league leaders. If Arsenal win, as they should, it will only show that Spurs are very much running out of time in another way.
They’re in a relegation battle. That puts them in another unenviable situation, in that they have to think about the short-term, medium-term and long-term all at once.
Like so many of Frank’s performances, it is one big mess.
Tuesday the Raiders officially introduced former Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak as the new head coach in Las Vegas. Among the questions for Kubiak was asked about the Raiders pick at number one overall and his thoughts on consensus top pick QB Fernando Mendoza. And he wasn't biting.
"We've got a lot of tape to watch before we determine who that's going to be, but I'm excited to get into that process," said Kubiak.
That likely garnered a lot of side eye from those watching because few picks have looked like more of a no-brainer than a QB starved team taking the Heisman winning reigning National champion QB who is the top overall prospect in the draft and the only QB even deemed worthy of a high pick in this draft.
But while Kubiak, and John Spytek as well, have been doing their best to keep their plans for the top pick, the twinkle in Mark Davis's eye tells a different story. Shortly after Kubiak spoke to the media, Mark was asked about what went into the decision to go with Kubiak. And it seemed pretty clear based on his answer it was because the team will be taking Mendoza at No. 1 overall.
#Raiders owner Mark Davis explaining their process in the head coaching search & ultimately landing on Klint Kubiak
“It came down to where we are this year, having the first pick in the draft and everything and understanding that there’s a good chance we’ll go on the offensive… pic.twitter.com/BY5PlnqKPI
— Jesse Merrick - Silver & Black Sports Network (@JesseSBSN) February 10, 2026
“It came down to where we are this year," Davis said. "Having the first pick in the draft and everything and understanding that there’s a good chance we’ll go on the offensive side of the ball so it might be a good chance that we would want a young offensive mind that could grow with somebody.”
Note the smirk Davis gets when he says "good chance we'll go on the offensive side of the ball". Then note the idea that Kubiak would "grow" with said player. You don't say that about any other position but quarterback. You just don't. People don't talk about coaches growing with wide receivers or offensive linemen. There also isn't anyone at those positions even ranked in the top five overall prospects.
Davis has to smile because though he can't just blurt it out, he knows it is quite obvious who the Raiders are taking. To the point that they chose their next head coach -- and likely why chose them -- because they are taking Mendoza with the top pick.
The 27-year-old underwent arthroscopic surgery Jan. 28 on his right elbow, which has limited his workload as pitchers and catchers reported Wednesday, Feb. 11, to spring training. He expects to return to full health soon, so his status for Opening Day on March 26 isn't in jeopardy.
"He will be limited, but he's not shut down," manager A.J. Hinch said.
"I'm two weeks in now," Dingler said. "It's just going to cost me a little bit of spring."
He is working closely with rehab coordinator Duncan Evans.
"I'm doing a lot of things – throwing, hitting," Dingler said. "I'm working back into the progression of everything, but it feels good. Of everything that goes wrong with baseball players, it's a minor thing. I'm happy for that."
In 2025, Dingler won the American League Gold Glove Award for his performance behind the plate – joining Iván Rodríguez, Lance Parrish and Bill Freehan as the only Tigers catchers to win the award. Dingler hit .278 with 13 home runs, 23 walks and 110 strikeouts across 126 games in the regular season, and hit the go-ahead home run against Cleveland in Game 3 of the wild-card series.
The 23-year-old is playing catch at 90 feet, doing so three times per week.
Eventually, Jobe will begin throwing bullpens, but he has a long way to go.
"We'll have to balance reality of where he's at," Hinch said. "We'll want to include him a little bit [in team drills, such as pitcher fielding practice], but we'll be careful with his throwing. Just the throwing right now, he's in a good place."
Tigers injury report
Here are more medical updates from the Tigers:
• Three pitchers underwent minor surgeries, similar to Dingler's procedure: left-handed reliever Bailey Horn with left elbow arthroscopy, right-handed reliever Tyler Owens with right hip arthroscopy and right-hander Troy Watson with right elbow arthroscopy. Owens is the furthest along in the rehab process after completing a bullpen session Tuesday, while Horn is beginning a throwing progression in the coming days and Watson is set for plyometric drills in the near future.
• Right-handed reliever Dugan Darnell (left hip labral repair) is playing catch four times per week, along with partaking in a return-to-play running progression; left-hander Jake Miller (left and right hip labral repairs) is playing catch at 60 feet three times per week.
• Right-hander Sawyer Gipson-Long has a left oblique strain. Catcher Eduardo Valencia is working through a return-to-play running progression after suffering a left quad strain, but he is doing all other baseball activities.
#Tigers medical update: Dillon Dingler underwent right elbow arthroscopy, but he expects to be fully healthy soon. pic.twitter.com/o20VUodmdj
Listen to our weekly Tigers show "Days of Roar" every Monday afternoon during the season and Tuesday afternoon during the offseason on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Barcelona confirm Marcus Rashford injury blow in newly released statement
Barcelona have confirmed that Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has suffered an injury ahead of their upcoming meeting with Atletico Madrid.
Rashford enjoying life in Barcelona
Rashford has enjoyed dramatically improved fortunes since he parted ways with United in the summer to seal a season-long loan move to Barcelona.
He fell out of favour under now-sacked head coach Ruben Amorim, who named him in the infamous ‘bomb squad.’ Rashford has been a key player for the Blaugrana in their bid to retain their La Liga crown.
The England international has made 21 top-flight appearances, contributing four goals and eight assists. He has notched 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions.
Barcelona retain the option of making his stay a permanent one for £26million and there have already been rumours that they are seriously weighing it up. Rashford has made no secret of his desire to continue playing under Hansi Flick, who has repeatedly declared his admiration for the player.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Catalan giants released a statement announcing that Rashford will not be available for selection during the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final encounter on Thursday against Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona release Rashford statement
The statement reads, “First-team player Marcus Rashford is experiencing discomfort in his left knee due to a blow received during the match against Mallorca.”
“He will sit out tomorrow’s match against Atlético de Madrid as a precautionary measure.”
Speaking at a press conference, Flick told reporters [as quoted by Barca Blaugranes], “We’ve had some problems. Rashford isn’t ready; he took a knock. It’s not good news, but I believe in my team. The situation isn’t easy.”
“We’re playing against a fantastic team. I saw the Cup match against Betis, and it was impressive. Cholo is doing a great job at Atlético. I really appreciate what I saw. It will be a tough match tomorrow.”
Flick added, “Step by step. We have to take care of him. He’s a player who gives his all, with great intensity. If he feels something, we have to be careful.”
“This is the situation. I’m not happy because we need him, like Pedri, Gavi, Andreas, or Marcus.”
Meanwhile, United return to action on 23 February when they go away to Everton.
'Excellent' manager on Liverpool shortlist suddenly becomes available
Liverpool are experiencing a tough second season under Arne Slot.
The Dutchman arrived from Feyenoord following the conclusion of the 2023/24 season as a replacement for Jurgen Klopp. And Slot could not have got his Anfield career off to a better start - winning the Premier League title in his first season in charge.
Sporting director Richard Hughes then backed the tactician with £450m worth of new signings in the summer transfer window.
British record deals were concluded for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak - while big money also went on Milos Kerkez, Hugo Ekitike and others.
But this season hasn’t gone as expected.
Liverpool struggling under Arne Slot this season
The Premier League champions are in a fight just to requalify for the Champions League and Slot has been unable to integrate his new signings with any kind of style or consistency.
Only a handful of top-flight matches have been won since September - leading to speculation that Richard Hughes and his FSG paymasters may make a change in the dugout.
Slot, 47, is only contracted until 2027 - meaning the club would not have to pay a fortune in compensation.
While the Reds remain in the hunt for a Champions League place it’s unlikely they will sack Slot - but expect his position to come under review in the off-season.
Roberto De Zerbi, 46, won the plaudits at Brighton before departing for Marseille in Ligue 1.
The Italian guided l’OM to second place in the French top flight last season - behind only Paris Saint-Germain but saw his tenure come to an end on Tuesday after 19 months in charge.
A lot of the tactician’s good work has been unravelled in the last few weeks - owing to a calamitous elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Club Brugge and a 5-0 hammering by PSG in Le Classique at the weekend.
It was reported back in 2024 by James Pearce that RDZ was under consideration by FSG’s decision-makers before Slot was given the task of replacing Klopp.
Moreover in a report by Melissa Reddy it was revealed that Liverpool higher-ups considered De Zerbi an "excellent" manager. The trusted Liverpool reporter also posted on X that Richard Hughes was a fan of the former Milan midfielder.
Concerns over his playing style - and compatibility with Liverpool - scuppered any chance of his appointment according to Pearce. But his body of work stands up to scrutiny - even if his spell at Marseille ended in disappointment.
He won’t come with a compensation package to be agreed and therefore could work as a successor without any financial baggage attached.
It’s clear Liverpool liked De Zerbi once upon a time and now - like fellow contenders Alonso and Ruben Amorim - he is unexpectedly back on the market.
Photo: Real Madrid star organises team dinner for Álvaro Arbeloa’s squad
A photo of the first-team squad at La Liga giants Real Madrid has gone viral online this week.
This comes after Vinícius Jr. organised a team bonding dinner for the rest of Álvaro Arbeloa’s ranks.
The likes of Kylian Mbappé, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Rodrygo were all in attendance at the get-together, which took place at a restaurant in Spain’s capital:
Vinícius’ gesture of course comes amid nothing short of a crucial stretch of the season for Real Madrid at present.
After putting Valencia to the sword by two goals to nil this past weekend, Los Merengues remain just a solitary point behind arch rivals Barcelona atop the La Liga table.
Next up, this weekend, comes another league outing, on this occasion against Real Sociedad, before Arbeloa and co. make the trip to Lisbon early next week to kick their Champions League playoff showdown with Benfica into gear at the Estádio da Luz.
PREVIEW | Rennes vs PSG - team news, lineups, predictions
Rennes host PSG this Friday at the Roazhon Park for matchweek 22 of the Ligue 1.
Rennes have 31 points to their name this season and occupy 6th position in the table. In their last game, Habib Beye's team lost 3-1 against Lens (Ligue 1 2025/26).
PSG have won 51 points to date and are placed in 1st position. In their last fixture, Luis Enrique's team won 5-0 against Marseille (Ligue 1 2025/26).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with PSG winning 5-0.
The deal for Pavard was made up of a season-long loan deal for €2.5m and an option to buy for an additional €15m, however, recent reports in France and Italy claim that the Frenchman is increasingly likely to return to Inter at the end of the season.
This is not the case for Weah, however, whose loan deal to Marseille includes a potential obligation to buy. According to Calciomercato.com, Marseille will trigger that obligation to buy once they secure mathematical safety in Ligue 1 this season.
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Timothy Weah of Olympique de Marseille celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)
Marseille are currently in fourth place in the Ligue 1 table, 25 points clear of the relegation zone with 13 games of the season left to play.
It is a case of when, rather than if Marseille trigger their obligation to buy. Once that happens, Juventus will be entitled to a fee of €15.4m plus up to €4.1m in add-ons. The Bianconeri have already received €1m for Weah’s season-long loan deal.
This criticism of Tomlin's coaching approach, who didn't have a single losing season in 19 years on the Pittsburgh sideline while winning over 200 games, did not sit well with former teammate Joey Porter. Roethlisberger and Porter were both members of the Steelers' Super Bowl 40 championship team. Porter played eight seasons in Pittsburgh and retired from the NFL after the 2011 season. His son is notably Joey Porter Jr., one of the Steelers' current starting cornerbacks.
In response to Roethlisberger's Tomlin critique, Porter didn't hold back. In an appearance on active Steelers star Cameron Heyward's podcast, Porter aired all of his former quarterback's dirty laundry out to dry. Truly, by saying Roethlisberger was a bad teammate and a bad person, Porter cut loose. He also maintained "we protected him [Roethlisberger]" (a.k.a. the Steelers organization) despite knowing who he was when he didn't have a helmet and shoulder pads on.
Oh, man ... PHEW:
OMG: Joey Porter absolutely DESTROYS Big Ben on Cam Heyward’s podcast. Says he wasn’t a good teammate. He’s not a good person. And has no right to talk about the Steelers business on his podcast. Holy crap. Watch. pic.twitter.com/nMZQ92hlgi
Even with Roethlisberger's comments about Tomlin out in the open, Porter sounds like he's felt this way about "Seven" for a while. It stands to reason that Porter was just waiting for a moment like this to make his true feelings known. That, to me, speaks volumes about how other former prominent Steelers figures may have also felt about Roethlisberger on and off the field.
"Seven [Roethlisberger] definitely broke the brotherhood because, the [expletive] that Seven do, that did, that we don't talk about is crazy," said Porter. "Out of anybody that should talk, he should never grab a microphone and really talk Steeler business. Because if we talking Steeler business, his [expletive] is foul of all foul. Like the [expletive] that he did is foul of all foul. He's not a good teammate. Won a Super Bowl with him, but a person? He's just not a good teammate. Like, he knows that. Anybody in the Steeler building knows that. But we [the Steelers] protected him. Because I've only won one Super Bowl and that was my quarterback. So do I love my quarterback? Yeah, but is he a good person? No."
As for the distinction in Porter saying "we" about the Steelers "protecting" Roethlisberger because he was a good quarterback, I don't think Porter necessarily means to lump himself into that group. It is relatively well-established that many non-quarterbacks tend to think of the franchise quarterback, so to speak, as an extension of the front office and ownership. You know, because quarterbacks are generally treated differently because of how important they are to their respective franchise's on-field success. When Porter talks about Roethlisberger being shielded from consequences for any potential crimes, he's almost certainly referring to the Steelers' leadership doing so.
With that said, even if he probably has a point, it's kind of amusing for Porter to attack Roethlisberger's character only to turn around and say he still loves him because they won a Lombardi Trophy together. Pick a lane, man. You're talking out of both sides of your mouth.
Wayne Madsen replaced former Australia batter Joe Burns as Italy captain before the start of the T20 World Cup [Getty Images]
Italy captain Wayne Madsen says he is "optimistic" he will still play a part in the T20 World Cup despite dislocating his left shoulder in his country's opening game against Scotland.
The 42-year-old Derbyshire batter was hurt in the field early in Italy's debut World Cup match against Scotland in Kolkata on Monday.
"It wasn't the start I, or the team, was looking for," he told BBC Radio Derby.
"I went for the ball in the fourth over and landed on the edge of the practice nets and popped my shoulder out.
"It's the first time I've dislocated my left shoulder. I have injured my right shoulder and had to have surgery a few years ago but the dislocation was different."
Madsen said scans on the injury had been "fairly positive" and confirmed he did not need an operation.
"It's just a case of managing it now over the next 48-72 hours and it's already improved," he added.
Madsen, a former South Africa hockey international, said he was "hugely proud and honoured" to be leading Italy at their first World Cup, adding it "didn't get any bigger" than being part of a major tournament in India.
Italy take on Nepal on Thursday in Mumbai in their next game before returning to Kolkata to face England on Monday and the West Indies, in their final group match, on Thursday, 19 February.
"I want to try to give myself as good an opportunity as possible to play in one or both games next week," Madsen said.
"I'm still optimistic that will happen but I'll be guided by pain and the body. I'd love to play in the England game but we'll see how things progress."
CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy — Lindsey Vonn had a third surgery and gave a promising update on her recovery.
In an Instagram post, Vonn said she is making progress, even though it is slow. She included three photos, including one that shows her injured left in a gruesome-looking device likely meant to stabilize her leg.
Vonn has a complex tibial fracture in her left leg.
"I had my 3rd surgery today and it was successful. Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago," Vonn wrote. "I’m making progress and while it is slow, I know I’ll be ok."
Vonn thanked supporters for the encouragement and well wishes. She also thanked her U.S. Olympic teammates for "giving me something to cheer for." She clearly has been monitoring results at the Games. Within hours, she had congratulated Jackie Wiles and Paula Moltzan for their bronze in the team combined on Tuesday, Feb. 10, and Ryan Cochran-Siegle for his silver in the super-G on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
What happened to Lindsey Vonn?
Vonn hooked the fourth gate with her right arm, and it spun her off-balance. She fought to regain control, but her legs had already splayed and her weight quickly shifted to the back of her skis, pulling her backward. She fell to her right and then tumbled headfirst in the snow.
"Things just happen so quick in this sport," U.S. teammate Bella Wright said after the race. "It looked like Lindsey had incredible speed out of that turn, and she hooked her arm and it's just over just like that."
The three-time Olympic medalist remained prone in the snow, and she could be heard wailing in pain. The gasps and groans from fans faded into shocked silence as medics worked on her. Vonn remained on the course for approximately 13 minutes before being loaded into a helicopter.
What is Lindsey Vonn's injury?
In an Instagram post on Monday, Vonn shared the devastating news that she suffered a complex tibia fracture that will require multiple surgeries.
A tibia fracture is a break in the shin bone that is an emergency needing immediate treatment. "Your tibias are some of the strongest bones in your body. It usually takes a lot of force to break one," according to the Cleveland Clinic. "You probably won't be able to stand, walk or put weight on your leg if you have a broken shin bone."
A complex fracture involves multiple breaks in a bone and damaged soft tissue, according Yale Medicine. Symptoms include extreme pain, numbness and, sometimes, a bone that protrudes through the skin. Treatment involves stabilization and surgery.
Vonn was in obvious pain after the crash, but she was moving her arms, head and neck.
About 18 minutes after the crash, the helicopter slowly began flying toward Cortina. "Let's let Lindsey Vonn hear us!" the American announcer said as the chopper flew away with her, and the crowd cheered and applauded.
Vonn's sister Karin Kildow was at the course today for the downhill and spoke to NBC reporters during their live broadcast:
"I mean that definitely was the last thing we wanted to see and it happened quick and when that happens, you're just immediately hoping she's okay. And it was scary because when you start to see the stretchers being put out, it's not a good sign," Kildow said. "But she really ... She just dared greatly and she put it all out there. So it's really hard to see, but we just really hope she's okay.
"She does have all of her surgeons and her PT staff here and her doctors, so I'm sure they'll give us a report and we'll meet her at whatever hospital she's at."
Vonn is also skiing with a partial replacement of her right knee. She had dominated the sport before the crash, making the podium in all five downhill races this season and winning two of them.
One could argue that no single living person has done more to shape the rules and officiating of mixed martial arts than John McCarthy, the man who began his career as an MMA referee all the way back at UFC 2 in 1994.
One could also argue — as McCarthy himself would — that he had no idea what he was getting himself into back then, and might have reconsidered if he had.
The first fight he refereed ended in less than 30 seconds. The second was only slightly longer than that.
What he means is, there were some bumps in the road. Obstacles, you might say. Mistakes from which everyone must learn and grow. You set up a cage and organize some fights around the promise that there will be (almost) no rules, and then something happens that makes everyone think, 'Well, actually maybe there should be a rule about that.'
Like how there was a time when no one in the UFC thought twice about letting fighters grab and cling to the chainlink fence of the cage. Then, McCarthy said, “Jerry Bohlander grabbed it so hard he bent the metal.”
Next thing you know, the UFC had a rule against grabbing the fence. It’s still there today, along with a bunch of others that arose through a process of trial and error. After UFC 14 in 1997, for instance, McCarthy and other officials sat down and created 18 new rules. This gradual and sometimes painful process is how the modern version of MMA took shape — and McCarthy was there for it all. Through both his advocacy and his example, he formed the basis for how MMA should be officiated.
It’s a little strange for him now, at age 63, to look back on his place in the history of this sport. He initially accepted a role as referee for UFC 2 mostly as a favor to Rorion Gracie, whom he met through his own martial arts training. (Fun bit of trivia: Many people mistakenly think McCarthy began refereeing at UFC 1. In fact, he was present at the event, but he stuck close to Gracie with a gun concealed on his person, just in case family squabbles among the Gracie clan caused trouble.)
The instructions he was first given as a referee were simple: Don’t stop the fight until someone taps out or gets knocked unconscious. This is actually how he came to be hired for that second event. A referee named João Barreto disobeyed those instructions when he stopped a fight at UFC 1 after seeing blood and teeth sprayed across the canvas, so Gracie went looking for a replacement.
According to McCarthy, he didn’t think those instructions were practical or smart. If he was going to referee, he told Gracie, he needed to be able to stop a fight once one of the fighters could no longer intelligently defend himself. Gracie resisted for a while.
Finally, McCarthy said, Gracie told him: OK, you can stop a fight if … whatever you said. And so it began. Rules. Guidelines. The vague shape of an actual sport forming. The process was, according to McCarthy, a “real pain in the ass.” But he believed in it, so he kept at it.
That was a few decades ago. He never thought this would be his life. Certainly not this long, or to this extent. Now there’s a whole generation of referees and other officials who’ve come up under his guidance, seeking out his advice. He’s happy to give it. He sees it as his primary way to contribute to the future of the sport at this point, doling out wisdom and warnings in that gruff big brother way he has, where it almost feels like he’s bullying you in a weirdly positive way.
According to longtime commentator and Uncrowned contributor Sean Wheelock, who helped organize this summit, McCarthy is the kind of person who, when you meet him, turns out to be “exactly who you want him to be.”
McCarthy will gladly admit that he’s a person of strong opinions, never one to sit back quietly and watch others screw up. That helps explain why he’s stuck around so long in this sport, and also why he’s been such an important part of shaping it. As much of a pain as it might have been to fight against the current for so long with this sport, he didn’t have it in him to just give in and float downstream.
“I have a big mouth and it's gotten me in a lot of trouble,” McCarthy said. “Throughout my time in the sport, I've pissed a lot of people off and that's OK. I accept it. I accept that I'm not going to make everyone happy. I accept that not everyone's going to like me, and I'm OK with that. But I would rather be honest and tell you, ‘Hey, this is my opinion and this is why.’ And if you don't like it, that's OK.”
Not unlike the fighters who stick around in this sport across multiple eras, McCarthy has lived many lives in MMA. From those wild early days to the growing pains of the modern era, all the way to a later period that came with difficult questions about how to manage his own physical decline, McCarthy has had to repeatedly reassess his role in MMA.
The biggest change for him came after a neck injury suffered on the mats about a decade ago.
“I got hurt,” McCarthy said. “I got hurt bad. I got paralyzed. … It got to the point where I couldn’t lift my arm. … I couldn’t put my backpack, even though that’s all I had, into the upper tray of an airplane.
"I couldn’t take a potato chip and lift it to my mouth. So that was a concern. I was like, 'S***, I’m not safe to go in there and do this job.'”
Sept. 9, 1994: John McCarthy has been there from the very beginning.
Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
When he realized he needed to step away was after UFC 217 in 2017, McCarthy said. He was working a title fight between Rose Namajunas and Joanna Jedrzejczyk, but when he went to stop the bout he realized his physical limitations were impacting how he did it.
“In the older days, I would [have] just grabbed [Namajunas], pick her up away from [Jedrzejczyk], and stop the fight,” McCarthy said. “And I realized at that moment, I’m not sure I can pick her up.
"In my mind, I looked at it and went, ‘I can’t do this. I’m going to end up being the cause of someone getting hurt, because I’m not 100%.’”
Around this time, McCarthy got offered a job doing on-air commentary for Bellator broadcasts. It was a fine job, one he never felt entirely comfortable in, McCarthy said, but it wasn’t the same as officiating. As a ref, he reminded the attendees of the officials summit, you have a team. You have the other refs, the judges and the athletic commission officials, a community of people to support and help and guide you.
When he took the commentary gig, McCarthy said, his old team was gone. “You have no idea how much you miss it until it’s gone,” he added.
In 2025, McCarthy got back in the cage as a referee. Neck surgery helped — first a disc replacement, then a fusion, making him the rare person to get both. His schedule isn’t nearly as packed these days, and he’s fine with that. What means more to him, he said, are these opportunities to help the next generation of officials.
Some of them — guys like Chris Leben and Frank Trigg — he first got to know when they were fighters. He watched them make a difficult transition from that life to this one, learning all new ways to be a part of the sport. Some of the people he’s mentored are mentors themselves now. It’s a satisfying feeling, and one he never expected when he first said yes to this gig.
“I'll tell you, I got a text from one of these [referees]," McCarthy said. "I'm not going to say who, but I got a text from him today where he did fights yesterday and said, ‘Hey man, I want you to know that in my head, I was repeating the words that you told me the last time that we worked together.’
"And I was just like, ‘Dude, you know how good that makes me feel?’ I mean, that's like hitting a home run. That's like me having a great fight where everything goes right. The fact that, you know what, he went out and he used that little bit that I gave him and now he's able to put that into his toolbox and make the right decision on a fight and feel good about it? Dude, there's nothing better for me.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 28: Eric Stokes #22 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on in the second quarter of a game at Allegiant Stadium against the New York Giants on December 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Recently, PFF released their current top 250 players set to hit free agency this off-season, and numerous Raiders made the list. The Raiders currently have 25 players set to be free agents which incudes 4 exclusive rights free agents and two restricted free agents making 19 players unrestricted free agents. The following players made the cuts for PFF:
G Dylan Parham – 92nd
Market Value: 3 years, 21 million
Parham, just 26 years old has spent time bouncing around between left guard, center, and right guard in his career and he’s logged 3803 career snaps. In his time, Parham has allowed 18 sacks and 145 pressures including 6 sacks and 28 pressures in 2025 in a regression season though majority of the Raiders offensive line saw regression in 2025 under OL coach Brennan Carroll. Parham’s had his best play at right guard in his career and the Raiders or his new team should look to move him back there instead of sticking him at left guard where he’s been very up and down in his career. Additionally, Parham has seen some struggles with injuries as well in his career missing time in 2023, 2024, and 2025 with minor injuries.
EDGE Malcolm Koonce – 112th
Market Value: 1 year, 5.8 million
Koonce flashed in 2023 with 43 tackles, 8 TFL, 17 QB Hits, 8 sacks, 3 FF, 52 pressures, a 15.7% pass rush win rate, and 27 run stops. After missing all of 2024 with a torn ACL, Koonce signed a one year deal in 2025 and struggled at times but did finish the year strong and posted 30 tackles, 7 TFL, 13 QB hits, a forced fumble, 4.5 sacks, 35 pressures, 18 stops, and a 15.9% pass rush win rate. Koonce overall did struggle but also saw success at the back end of the year and showed the flashes of his 2023 self in weeks 16-18 along with parts of the beginning of the season. A year removed from a torn ACL should go a long way for him to get back to his form in 2023 and the flashes and talent hasn’t gone anywhere. Koonce will be an interesting option for the Raiders to bring back as a depth pass rusher or if he walks another team taking a swing on the potential.
HB Raheem Mostert – 137th
Market Value: 1 year, 2.4 million
Mostert signed with the Raiders as a veteran runningback option and he’s likely towards the back end of his career, if not played his final season in 2025. Mostert logged 22 attempts for 104 yards and 12 receptions for 70 yards. Overall, Mostert did his job as a depth runningback but Las Vegas will need more from the room behind Jeanty to help compliment his playstyle. The Raiders should go a different direction and add more depth and youth to the room.
QB Kenny Pickett – 152nd
Market Value: 2 years, 8.5 million
The former first round pick, Pickett will be an interesting option for teams as a depth quarterback or in a rare circumstance a possible starter (though very unlikely). Pickett has started a career 27 games and has tossed 4953 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions in his career. The veteran quarterback is nearly 28 and does have the experience to help a room as a cheap solid veteran backup. The Raiders will be bringing in rookie Fernando Mendoza with the first overall selection and likely need to pair him with a backup quarterback option, and ideally someone with more experience then Mendoza. The Raiders could retain Pickett, but it will fully depend on what the staff’s looking for in their veteran backup/mentor option to Mendoza.
CB Eric Stokes – 156th
Market Value: 3 years, 33 million
The most interesting ranking for a Raiders free agent, Stokes was a standout in 2025 ranking top 25 in EPA/target, separation allowed, yards allowed, and QBR allowed. The former first rounder is just 26 years old and will turn 27 in March. At 6’1, 195 Stokes started all 16 games he appeared in this season totaling 53 tackles, 3 TFL, and 5 pass breakups. Additionally, Stokes allowed just 28 receptions for 261 yards, a touchdown, and a 77.2 QBR this season. The Raiders saw development from rookie Darien Porter and could look to keep their CB duo in tact while adding to it as well through the draft and free agency. Stokes has struggled with injuries in his career logging just 477 snaps in 2022 and 110 in 2023 but has back to back seasons at essentially full health. The Raiders should look to retain Stokes, but if they can upgrade they shouldn’t pass on that opportunity.
— Pro Football Hall of Fame Ambassador (@PFHOFAmbassador) January 28, 2026
ILB Jamal Adams – 217th
Market Value: 1 year, 1.8 million
Adams in his return season shifted down to linebacker full time playing 304 snaps at linebacker and 125 at a nickel linebacker role. Adams was successful logging 45 tackles, 5 TFL, a sack, a forced fumble, 7 pressures, 23 stops, and performing below average in coverage. Adams also missed 12 tackles for a 21.4 missed tackle rate but that has been his massive issue since he entered the NFL. In coverage Adams allowed 36 receptions for 211 yards, a touchdown, and a 98.6 QBR on 38 targets. Adams at 30 years old does still have a career path as a depth linebacker in the NFL but the Raiders should look to move off him towards an alternative option or retain Adams just for a minor linebacker position and special teams player.
LAS VEGAS — In the middle of a debate over the differences between a 10-8 round and a 10-9 round on boxing scorecards, California State Athletic Commission executive director Andy Foster stands up to put an end to the argument.
“Let’s not make boxing into MMA,” Foster tells the room full of experienced judges, referees and other officials. “Because MMA is hard to score.”
This gets a laugh out of the attendees at the 2026 Combat Sports Officials Summit, where both judges and referees have gathered to sharpen their skills. They recognize the truth of the statement.
Boxing is a relatively simple sport for judges. Two fighters. Each with two fists. All they’re permitted to do is punch each other above the waist throughout a series of three-minute rounds. A knockdown means a 10-8. Most other outcomes result in a 10-9 in one direction or the other. That makes it easy on the judges. There’s only so much to watch for.
But MMA? Over the course of any five-minute round you might see the full spectrum of the combat sports rainbow. One guy lands some good leg kicks. The other takes him down and punches him a few times before getting snared in a submission attempt that forces him to go from offense to defense. One guy bloodies the other’s nose. The other keeps kicking that lead leg until it’s bright red and its owner limps off to his corner at the end of the round.
Quickly now, who won? And by what score? You have a few seconds to mark it down on that card and sign your name. The name part is important because, if your score differs from those of the people scoring (in their own heads, at their own leisure) from home, they need to know who to yell at. Maybe you cost their favorite fighter a win. Maybe you cost them actual money they bet on the other guy.
They would now like to question your qualifications, your intelligence, your entire existence. They know your name and your judging history and they have questions, you see. These questions include “how did you ever get this job,” but also “what is wrong with you,” and let us not forget the classic “are you stupid or something?”
Between them, the people in this room have scored hundreds if not thousands of rounds of MMA and boxing. In the eyes of the public, they have sinned and been forgiven and then sinned again. One will later recount, almost fondly, the guy who still occasionally sends him Facebook messages about a 29-28 score he turned in for a UFC prelim fight four years ago. (The guy thought it should have been 29-28 the other way, and is apparently still heated about it.) One tells me that judging MMA fights is the way he learned, through necessity, how to turn off the messaging function on Instagram. Another will recall the hardest round he ever had to score, an entire frame in which neither party landed a single strike.
When the fans on the internet learn your name, things are about to get rough. Any judge who sits in that chair long enough is going to find out eventually. You turn in a scorecard the masses disagree with and suddenly "you're the flavor of the week," veteran referee “Big” John McCarthy says. They'll tell you that you're the worst ever. They'll ask you: Do you even know what MMA means?
"It gets worse than that," says judge and referee Nick Berens, and the whole room chuckles.
To call judging a thankless task is to understate the situation considerably. It is, as longtime boxing referee and judge Jack Reiss says, “a part-time job with a full-time commitment.”
He means this more literally than you might think. He means that judges ought to be doing it even when someone else is getting paid for it. And they should make sure they're doing it well even then.
Make the wrong call as an MMA judge — or what people perceive to be the wrong call — and you may hear about it for the rest of your life.
Chris Unger via Getty Images
That's because judging fights is, as famed MMA official McCarthy will say more than once this weekend, “a perishable skill.” If you don’t use it — and use it regularly, whether you’re technically on the job or not — you’ll lose it.
“The best people who do this,” McCarthy says, “they’re judging fights online with other judges, they’re on group texts, they’re always watching fights.”
This isn’t exactly a rule for judges, though there are plenty of those. There are also strong suggestions, best practices, tips for staying gainfully employed. For example, never talk to the media unless your commission gives you the go-ahead. There’s one rule. Don’t write down a running a score of a round; keep it in your head and remember that the scorecard is a legal document. Don’t give “sympathy rounds,” awarding a round to one fighter simply for doing better than he did in previous rounds.
Don’t be seen chewing gum during a fight. Don’t wear earbuds or take notes, since both can distract you from the action. Matter of fact, go to even greater lengths to avoid distractions. Any urgent news from home that can wait until the day after the event? Best to avoid it until then, so as not to have it weighing on your mind.
Don’t give 10-10 scores unless it is absolutely impossible to avoid. If you can watch an entire round of fighting and still conclude that you can’t pick a winner, Foster says, “We’ll find someone who can.”
The best people who do this, they’re judging fights online with other judges, they’re on group texts, they’re always watching fights.John McCarthy
And while he’s doling out advice, Foster adds another that he didn’t think he’d ever have to come out and say.
“You know how on a can of paint it’ll say, 'Do not eat?’” he says. Yeah, this is one of those. Obvious to some but apparently not all: Don’t get into a backstage argument with a fighter trying to explain why he lost.
One reason why, Foster says, is because “people have phones.” The video of your altercation will end up on the internet, and your local commission head will end up talking to high-ranking state officials about you, which is never good.
But the judging fights with peers thing? It’s not quite a rule. But yes, when you start talking to the judges gathered here for this summit, you find out it’s something they adhere to. Often, in fact. Many will tell you that if fights are on it means their phones are buzzing with constant message alerts. This is a conversation that starts with the first prelim and runs through the last fight of the card.
“Ask my wife,” McCarthy says, referring to how often his own phone lights up when there are fights happening anywhere in the world. “It’s constant.”
But it’s not just about watching fights on TV and coming up with hypothetical scores for each round. For the exercise to serve its purpose, judges need to be offering that score to others who will push back when needed. They need someone on the other end of the exchange who’s willing to hold them accountable.
“You have to have people you can count on to tell you when you’re wrong,” McCarthy says. But the circle should be small and dependable — never random strangers on the internet.
The introduction of widespread sports betting has only raised the stakes for an already difficult job.
Chris Unger via Getty Images
Dan Furse, a longtime judge with the state athletic commission in Utah, says his colleagues use the Marco Polo app for these conversations. There they offer up for group discussions a “round of the week” to score and discuss and debate. The thinking is, if you can’t sit on the hot seat and explain yourself to fellow judges, you don’t have any business judging actual fights.
How Furse got roped into this world was, from the early days of local MMA in the state of Utah, he attended as many fights as he could. He also fought a couple times — Tapology confirms that “Tabasco Dan” went 2-0 in the span of one month back in 2005 — and eventually got asked to be a judge when a promoter needed someone to fill in on extremely short-notice.
“I figured, as a fair-minded person who’s reasonably intelligent and knows this sport, I could do about as well as anyone,” he says. “I think the things all these other judges share is that they love this sport but they also want to continue to learn. They have a thirst for knowledge.”
This gets at some questions we don’t often bother to ask about MMA’s judges. What kind of person wants to perform this essential but much-maligned task — and why? The pay isn’t great. No one thanks you when you get it right. Most of the time no one except other judges even notice when you get it right. But when you get it wrong, or at least are widely perceived to have done so? Then everybody hates you. Who would sign up for that?
Answers may vary, but the core commonalities seem to be this: These are people who genuinely love this sport and can’t stand to see others mess it up. They’ve gotten as frustrated as you have by fights that resulted in baffling scorecards. They believe there is a right way to go about this. They also are not content to sit at home and shout at the TV about it. That’s why they’re here, trying to sharpen their skills further.
I think the things all these other judges share is that they love this sport but they also want to continue to learn. They have a thirst for knowledge.Dan Furse
It’s stuff like this that gives McCarthy a sense of optimism about the future of this aspect of MMA officiating.
“People that are judging right now are doing a better job at this moment in the sport than it's ever been done,” McCarthy says. “They're doing an outstanding job, and it is a difficult, difficult job. And I'm telling you, when you're here and you're putting your score and your name on a thing, it's enough to where there's pressure because I could pull it out and say, ‘What the hell, Ben? What were you thinking?’ It's a whole lot more when it's a real one that affects someone's livelihood. And everyone takes it super serious.”
It’s never going to be the kind of thing that’s appreciated by all. If you can’t stand being the bad guy sometimes, this is not the job for you.
But somebody has to do it, don’t they? And here those people are, on a rare weekend that’s free of all combat sports, gathered together in a hotel conference room to try to get better at it. That alone ought to give us some hope.
This gets at something essential about the judging experience. From the outside, this doesn’t seem like a difficult job. You’ve watched a lot of fights, right? You can tell the winner from the loser. Your math skills are competent enough to handle the 10-point must system. You could totally do this better than a lot of these idiots who apparently end up cageside at UFC events, messing up entire careers — not to mention parlays — with their incompetence.
But it starts to feel very different the moment there’s any hint of accountability. For instance, when you’re sitting there in a room full of judges, watching and scoring rounds from past MMA bouts, and then you have to mark your scorecard and sign your name on it before handing it in. You don’t get to sit there and think about it, either. You better have your score ready as soon as the round ends, because McCarthy will be coming around to collect them immediately, just like the commission does at an actual MMA event.
And if your scorecard puts you out of alignment with the other judges in the room? Then McCarthy is going to hold it up, call out your name, and ask you to explain yourself. At various points during this summit, everyone from retired UFC fighter Chris Leben to longtime boxing and MMA judge Adelaide Byrd will be asked to explain their scores. And they’ll do it, just as they have become used to doing it in their own group chats and text threads.
Thrust into the captain’s role for LIV Golf’s Smash GC after Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour, Talor Gooch is already putting his stamp on the team — starting with chemistry.
And when that team happens to be halfway around the world in Australia with the Super Bowl on the schedule, the solution is simple: host a little soiree.
Gooch, whose first LIV victory came at Adelaide back in 2023, said he joined new Smash GC member Harold Varner III and others in preparing for this week's tournament by watching the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots battle. Varner and Gooch previously played together on the RangeGoats GC.
"We might have had a little fun with the Super Bowl and watching some football and maybe a couple of adult beverages," Gooch said. "The four of us get along so well. Obviously, anybody who knows Harold, he is a lightning rod of energy. It's easy to smile when you're with him and be in a good mood. He's the one that when things are tough and golf is not good, he's going to be able to keep us smiling and enjoying ourselves."
Gooch, who is the only player to celebrate team tournament titles with three different teams (4Aces GC, RangeGoats GC and Smash GC), has a total of 13 LIV Golf trophies, either as an individual or with a team.
While he won at the Grange Golf Club on Australia's southern coast during his magical 2023 season, he finished 10 over at the same venue last year, making him nearly dead last (Matthew Wolff held that honor).
And now, with some Official World Golf Ranking points on the table and the Oklahoma native slipping all the way from a high of 37th in the world to his current place at 1,579, Gooch has a very simple, if tongue-in-cheek philosophy moving forward.
"I'm just going to win the rest of them," he said sarcastically in advance of today's opening round. "I'm just going to win the next 13, 12 events, whatever we've got left. I'm going to win them all.
"Winning is so hard out here. Look at the guy who's probably played the best golf out here the last couple years, Jon Rahm. He's played unbelievably well but he hasn't won a whole lot. I think that really exemplifies how hard winning is. At this level, when you win, you just need some luck. You need things to go your way. When you win, you need to cherish it because you never know when the next one is going to come.
"I would love to get a win here this week and kind of rekindle some of the 2023 good vibes, and that would be amazing."
Of course, if he does that, his ranking will improve and he can potentially play his way back into majors. Gooch has only played in two of the last 10 majors, missing the cut in one and finishing T-60 at the 2024 PGA Championship.
"I mean, for us, obviously the majors are the driving factor. Like, how do we get into the majors, and the OWGR is one of those routes," he said. "I have to go play great golf, plain and simple. We all have to go play great golf to get into the majors and then hopefully to play great in the majors.
"At the end of the day it doesn't really change things. I'm still working my butt off. I'm still trying to play great golf. It's just now there's another opportunity to get into the majors, which is great, and hopefully those opportunities and pathways continue to expand and become more ample for us."
Volkanovski (28-4 MMA, 15-3 UFC) defeated Lopes for a second consecutive time by unanimous decision last month at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. Both Evloev (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) and Lerone Murphy were vying for a title shot but got passed up for Lopes (27-8 MMA, 6-3 UFC).
Volkanovski arguably had an even more definitive performance at UFC 325 than he did at UFC 314, which doesn't sit well with Evloev.
"Murphy won by good performance, then he's supposed to fight for the title then they gave the title shot to Diego again, and OK, no problem," Evloev told MMA Junkie. "I will wait. Then he showed us nothing changes from the first title fight with Volk. It was no reason to give him that title shot again. But now we know, and everybody knows, also the UFC knows. So now me and Murphy will share the place for No. 1 contender for the title."
Evloev will take on Murphy (17-0-1 MMA, 9-0-1 UFC) in a presumed No. 1 contender bout in the UFC Fight Night 270 headliner March 21 from The O2 in London (Paramount+). Evloev admits he thought Murphy would get the next title shot after knocking out Aaron Pico at UFC 319.
"I was surprised," Evloev said. "I just thought he just took a short-notice fight with a good fighter, which is Pico, and he took a big risk. Then he won by good knockout, and he's supposed to fight, but for some reason, they didn't give him a title shot.
"But, good for me because I will have one of the best featherweights right now to fight and to deserve the title shot. To deserve the title shot, you have to beat somebody good, which is Lerone: 17-0, undefeated, strong, big. We will see."
Tennessee is recruiting toward its 2027 football signing class.
Four-star Miami wide receiver commit Ah'Mari Stevens named Tennessee in his top five schools, along with Miami, LSU, Texas and Georgia.
The 5-foot-11, 160-pound prospect is from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School in Hollywood, Florida. 247Sports ranks him as the No. 31 wide receiver in the class and No. 25 player in Florida.
Tennessee offered Stevens a scholarship on March 5, 2025 and has not visited the Vols.
Miami offered him a scholarship on April 2, 2024. Two days after an unofficial visit, he announced his commitment to the Hurricanes on Jan. 13, 2025.
Pittsburgh was the first school to offer Stevens a scholarship on Dec. 4, 2023. Other schools to offer him scholarships include Missouri, South Florida, Florida International, Kentucky, Florida State, Indiana, West Virginia, Ole Miss, Tulane, Auburn, Penn State, Purdue, North Carolina State, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, Florida, Elon, Marshall, Arkansas, Illinois, Western Kentucky, Temple, Old Dominion, Bowling Green and North Carolina Central.
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - JANUARY 31: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals brings the ball up court during the game against the Southern Methodist University Mustangs at KFC YUM! Center on January 31, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) | Getty Images
If you were hoping to hear how Paul Rogers and Bob Valvano handled Mikel Brown Jr.’s historic 45-point performance on Monday night, you’re in luck.
Thanks to U of L for making this available.
Mikel Brown Jr.'s historic night as heard on the Louisville Sports Radio Network.
His 45 points and 10 3s against NC State tie two single-game program records. Brown also broke the ACC single-game freshman scoring record.
The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2026 offseason with a prime chance to remake several position groups, including the running back room. Kareem Hunt, Isiah Pacheco and Dameon Pierce are unrestricted free agents. None of those players needs to return to the team next season. It’s time for the Chiefs to add youth to their backfield again.
This past season, the Indiana Hoosiers featured two running backs who have the chance to hear their names called in the 2026 NFL Draft. Roman Hemby is the more explosive option, but College Football Playoff standout Kaelon Black offers excellent physicality to create between the tackles and keep offensive drives on schedule.
Black enters the NFL with extensive special teams experience to contribute in multiple ways. He is a sharp one-cut runner who patiently waits for the run lane to develop before slamming on the accelerator. His quick footwork helps him execute sharp cuts upfield, and he lowers his pads to meet defenders in the hole.
Kaelon Black | RB | IU
Downhill, no nonsense runner w/ + footwork a strong lower half. Runs behind his pads w/ good forward lean to pick up yards after contact. Patience + lateral agility to press LoS & alter rush gap.
Black is a violent runner who drives his legs through tackle attempts to finish plays falling forward. His contact balance allows him to step out of arm tackles and find some hidden yardage. Unfortunately, he takes short strides and lacks the burst and top speed to threaten pursuit angles.
Black lacks the athletic traits to become a workhorse in the NFL, but he offers value as a short-yardage running back and pass protector. His power profile is solid, but his average size prevents him from running over defenders in one-on-one situations. Black is not an elusive runner and prefers to take on defenders rather than juke them.
The Chiefs could select Black with a late pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and might even luck into adding him as a priority undrafted free agent. Some other late round or undrafted options in this class could include Clemson’s Adam Randall, South Carolina’s Rahsul Faison, Toledo’s Chip Trayanum and UTSA’s Robert Henry Jr.
The Los Angeles Rams lost a great veteran player this winter after offensive tackle Rob Havenstein announced his retirement from the NFL after 11 seasons. The decision caps off an illustrious career for Havenstein that included 148 starts with the Rams and a Super Bowl victory.
The team unveiled a heartwarming tribute video for Havenstein, featuring some of the veteran's top moments and quotes alongside commentary from head coach Sean McVay and quarterback Matthew Stafford.
"The epitome of a pro's pro. A man's man," McVay said. He represents everything that's right about the Rams"
"Rob is such an unbelievable person, a leader up front," Stafford said. "He really makes that group go."
Check it out:
"The epitome of a pro's pro... He represents everything that's right about the Rams" pic.twitter.com/EaKA4P0K7T
Losing Havenstein is tough, but the Rams seemingly have his replacement already on the roster in Warren McClendon, who started 10 games for L.A. this season when Havenstein was on injured reserve. McClendon ended up being one of the better offensive linemen on the Rams this year and should go into the 2026 offseason as the leader to officially take on Havenstein's starting role on the right side.
Havenstein was also one of the last players from the team when they were in St. Louis. He even predated McVay becoming head coach. And now, his legacy lives on with a Rams offensive line that looked dominant at times this year even without Havenstein in the lineup.
England will play New Zealand and Costa Rica in their final two friendlies before the 2026 World Cup.
The Three Lions will play both games during a pre-tournament warm-up camp in south Florida. Thomas Tuchel’s side will face New Zealand on Saturday 6 June and then Costa Rica on Wednesday 10 June, a week before their opening match against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday 17 June.
England have not played New Zealand since 1991, with the All Whites qualifying for the expanded 48-team World Cup this year. Costa Rica did not qualify for the tournament, but will act as important preparation for Tuchel’s side, who also play Panama and Ghana in Group L.
England’s final friendlies on home soil will be played next month when they host Uruguay and Japan at Wembley, on Friday 27 March and Tuesday 31 March respectively, with Tuchel set to name his squad before in advance of the June warm-up matches.
The Three Lions will be based in Kansas City, Missouri throughout the World Cup and will travel there following the pre-tournament camp in south Florida. They will head to Dallas, Boston and New York for their three group games.
NORTH PORT, FL - MARCH 16: John Gil #97 of the Atlanta Braves runs to first base during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park on Sunday, March 16, 2025 in North Port, Florida. (Photo by Scott Audette/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
For best tools when it comes to pitchers, click here.
Best Hitter – John Gil
It was quite the first full season for John Gil, as he was the catalyst at the top of a young and exciting Augusta GreenJackets lineup and showed advanced ability at the plate at just 19 years old. Early in the season he showed struggles despite high contact rates, hitting the ball into the ground far too often and struggling to produce any sort of pop, but throughout the season swing and approach adjustments paid major dividends. He began hitting the ball harder with more line drives but without sacrificing walks or ever going through a stretch where he had swing-and-miss issues. These adjustments combined with his advanced feel for the strike zone and recognition of spin made him a contact beast and allowed him to post a 132 wRC+ and more walks than strikeouts over his final 300 plate appearances. Gil has all of the tools to be a plus major league hitter, though he is going to go through the same struggles many young hitters do. To make a recent comparison to a Braves prospect, Gil has similar issues with consistently lifting the ball to his pull side and keeping the ball off of the ground as Nacho Alvarez did coming through, and though his barrel feel is behind Alvarez at the same level Gil was younger and has a bit more upside at the plate. Gil has a looser, more explosive swing and gets to better top end exit velocities, meaning there are much fewer mechanical adjustments needed for him to tap into pull side power. He also has better bat speed and isn’t going to be beat by velocity, giving him a relatively high contact floor for a player his age. His barrel rates need to improve for him to get to a starter outcome, but he is in a phenomenal place at the moment and has shown the ability to adjust and improve rapidly.
Best Power – Diego Tornes
Tornes is a name that is going to catch a lot of attention around the league for his raw tool set, and his power potential is the attribute that should most excite Braves fans. While there are other players in the system who are in the debate with Tornes for raw power (such as Juan Espinal), Tornes is the one who has been able to consistently put the bat on the ball and produce the coveted high exit velocities of a premium power hitter. That’s not to say there is no question about his hit tool, as he certainly has as much need for growth as any teenager, but of the players in the Braves system who can boast plus or better raw power he is the only one who currently projects to have the hit tool necessary to tap into it. Tornes has explosive hands, especially from the left side of the plate, and has the power to fit into the middle of a major league lineup with the ceiling of a player who can reach 25+ home runs consistently. Tornes still needs to prove himself against quality competition, but it says a lot even in a system weak on hitters that a player who is 17 years old and hasn’t even matriculated to the United States yet gets our highest regard for his power. There is significant hype within the Braves organization surrounding Tornes’s future, and his power puts him in elite company and makes him a top five player in the system.
Best Speed – John Gil
John Gil has elite footspeed to go along with his contact ability, turning in 80 grade times down the first base line and showing the ability to consistently beat out grounders on the infield. Anything hit slowly to the left side typically gave the defenders no chance on Gil, and he has recently done better about making use of that speed on the defensive end. Gil has the range to be an elite shortstop, but at times his footwork and instincts held him back from making every play on that side of the ball. 2025 saw him steadily improve and get better with his first step and positioning, and he has matured from a guy with some questions about whether he would stick to one who seems like a solid fit for the shortstop position long term. If he is pushed off of the dirt due to the competition in the system his speed could make him a plus center fielder, as his top end speed would allow him to track down balls in the gap with the best of them. It’s his best defensive attribute, but he does need to do a bit better job on the bases. Gil did put pressure on defenses with 54 stolen bases last season, and he did so with above average efficiency but not the elite efficiency or volume that his raw foot speed would suggest. His speed makes him an above average baserunner, but if he can improve his jumps or timing he could reach the next level and add even more value to his game.
Best Arm – Conor Essenburg
There aren’t many players in Atlanta’s system with standout arms at the moment, and Essenburg is a pretty clear top guy here given his pitching background and how much value his arm could add to his profile. Essenburg doesn’t have the athleticism to stick up the middle, but his plus arm strength makes him a fit in right field which will slightly ease the burden on his bat compared to if he had to play left or first base. He is a plus thrower who should produce significant excess value with his arm out in right field.
Best Infield Defense – Ambioris Tavarez
For a stretch in 2024 Ambioris Tavarez seemed to be making strides to turn his career around, but after a broken hand he struggled down the stretch and then had a disappointing season in 2025. With that, the emergence of Gil, and the two shortstops Atlanta added in the draft he seems unlikely to ever carve out any sort of significant role in the Braves system, but his claim to the best glove in the system still goes unchallenged. Tavarez has just average speed, but every one of his other traits is above average or better and it leads to a profile of a player whose defensive acumen should give him some sort of professional role as long as he wants it, even if that’s just as minor league depth. He has an elite first step and is always in the right position to make plays, and he has smooth glove work and great hands allowing him to avoid errors. He had a tough time with his footwork and throwing in 2023, but after significant work (and getting further away from his TOS surgery) he always has a solid base and can make throws from multiple angles with ease.
Best Outfield Defense – Isaiah Drake
2025 was a massive year for Isaiah Drake, as he re-established himself as a legitimate prospect in the Braves system and at times was the best of a solid outfield in Augusta. Defensively the Braves have a number of talented outfielders in the system – notably Kevin Kilpatrick Jr., Luis Guanipa, Patrick Clohisy, and Owen Carey – but Drake’s combination of top end speed and first step quickness gives him a unique ceiling among that group. He isn’t quite as efficient with his route-taking as Kilpatrick Jr. is, but with double-plus speed, the ability to get up to top speed quickly, and solid routes he can make just about any play look easy. Drake has improved his reads and angles year-over-year since joining the system, and it’s important to remember he is still in the early stages of playing baseball full time. He has the potential to be a 65 defender in center fielder and could make a huge impact with his glove, and so far he hasn’t had to sacrifice any speed as he has added strength to his frame to help him on the offensive end.
Highest Ceiling – Diego Tornes
The Braves have had a run of their high value, high ceiling position players failing to live up to expectations, but as mentioned above Diego Tornes seems to be the real deal. His defensive potential is lower than players like Tate Southisene, Isaiah Drake, or Luis Guanipa given the near certainty he is going to end up in a corner, with a real chance that corner is left field. Thus it should make it clear how bullish we are on his offensive projections given that we still see him as a step above that group. Tornes has the chance to be a true impact bat in the middle of a lineup, something the Braves have struggled to produce in the Alex Anthopoulos era. Tornes has commonly gotten Anthony Santander comps – high praise for a player that young – and with elite bat speed there is still a ceiling to reach for his hit tool. Tornes has all star talent and the early returns back up a measure of confidence.
Pascal Simba, 25, is leaving Gefle IF to join FK Jerv in Norway. The Congolese striker has signed a contract with the Norwegian club until the end of the 2027 season, Jerv confirmed on its official website.
Signed this summer by Gefle IF from Ariana FC, Simba quickly made his mark in Ettan Norra, netting seven goals and providing two assists in just eleven matches. "I had a very good conversation with Arne. It just felt natural to come here," Simba explained:
He laid out the club's ambitions, how they see me, and how they plan to use me. I found that very motivating.
FK Jerv, currently playing in Norway's third division, hopes Simba's experience and attacking flair will help the team climb up the league standings.
CORAL GABLES — Miami coach Jai Lucas had just secured the biggest win in his UM tenure and walked over to shake UNC coach Hubert Davis’ hand.
Behind him, the Hurricanes fans who filled the Watsco Center stormed onto the court to celebrate Miami’s 75-66 win over No. 11 North Carolina. It was the first ranked win for the Hurricanes since Lucas took over the program, as well as the first ranked win for UM since they beat Clemson on Jan. 3, 2024. The victory shows a sharp change of fortune following UM’s seven-win season last year.
“I think (the team is) resilient and I feel like they’ve shown that all season,” Lucas said. “All the close games that we’ve been in — the Pitt game, we were down and had to come back. Wake Forest. I think about all these games on the road where we’re battling, competing, and to finally get one over a ranked opponent — I think it’s our fourth one we’ve played — to finally get one over a ranked opponent feels good.”
Lucas and his players credited the fans for helping create a tough environment for the visiting Tar Heels. UM announced student tickets sold out on Monday, and the announced attendance was 7,355 — Miami’s highest-attended home game this season.
“I thought the student section was electric,” Lucas said. “This is what I envisioned this building being and what we have to make it moving forward.”
“The fans are everything,” Miami center Ernest Udeh Jr. said. “You hear them screaming, whether it (is) the first bucket, the last bucket, we get a stop, a turnover, making a free throw — all of it plays into our success on the court. So we’re always grateful for that.”
In addition to building enthusiasm for this year’s team, the win also builds Miami’s NCAA Tournament resume. It is another Quad 1 victory for the Hurricanes, who are 3-3 against Quad 1 opponents. UM is now 36th in the NET rankings, which ranks eighth in the ACC. Miami has four upcoming games against conference opponents currently ranked ahead of them in the NET rankings.
The victory earned the Hurricanes national attention from college basketball analysts. ESPN’s Dick Vitale called Miami the “team of the night” and said Lucas is a “rising star.” CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein said he believed the Hurricanes are a tournament team.
Lucas said he hopes Tuesday’s win over UNC can help vault the Hurricanes into another gear in the final month of the regular season.
“Hopefully the guys feel like they got over a hump a little bit, a quality win or whatever — a resume-(builder),” Lucas said. “But like I was saying, we have six more Quad 1 games on the schedule. So it’s not like the schedule gets any easier.”
Lucas also made sure to note that while the victory over the Tar Heels was a big step for the team, they still have tough opponents to play. Miami has two games against ranked opponents — a road game against No. 15 Virginia on Feb. 21 and a home game in the season finale against No. 24 Louisville — but there are also tough games against N.C. State, SMU and Virginia Tech coming up.
“It’s not over,” Lucas said. “This ain’t the championship or anything, but this, hopefully, will get us down this stretch because we got a tough stretch coming up.”
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 18: Case Keenum #11 embraces quarterback Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears prior to the NFL divisional playoff football game against the Los Angeles Rams at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Heading into year two of the Ben Johnson era, the Chicago Bears’ offense is coming off top ten production in points scored and yards, and every returning starter is under contract. That doesn’t mean there won’t be any changes, but continuity will be a key for the offense to take another step.
Chicago’s defense, however, needs some work.
In my 13-part roster turnover series, I’ll look at each position group with an eye toward the 2026 season, and I’ll kick things off with the quarterbacks. In this series, I’ll spotlight each player’s current contract length, their place on the roster next season, and some possible free-agent or draft additions the Bears could make at the position group.
Here’s how Chicago’s QB room currently shapes up.
Caleb Williams – Signed through 2027* – The Bears have a franchise quarterback who is pushing for top ten status at the position in the NFL — is a sentence I’ve ever typed in my life.
Williams, who turned 24 three months ago, just had one of the most exciting and prolific years any quarterback has ever had in Chicago, and there’s so much room to grow in the offense.
He had a solid rookie season but had a few glaring holes in his game, most notably his deep-ball accuracy and his tendency to take sacks. In year two, those two areas of his game improved drastically. Heading into year three, and the second in Ben Johnson’s offense, Caleb has highlighted his accuracy and footwork as two areas he wants to work on this offseason.
“Being able to be in the offense for a year, being able to be comfortable in the offense now, being able to go back and look at things I could have done better,” Williams said last month via ESPN. “Was I too far forward? Was I too far back? Was I not consistent enough with my footwork? Did I lean off and fall off the mound is what we call it. It’s just super small things to be able to be more consistent for the guys, for the team. Be able to keep the offense on the field as long as possible and be as efficient as possible.”
*The fifth-year option is available for the 2028 season.
Tyson Bagent – Signed through 2027 – The Bears signed Bagent to a two-year contract extension back in August, worth $10 million and up to a possible $16 million with incentives. Chicago could have allowed him to play out his deal and tendered him an offer as a restricted free agent this offseason, but they valued their homegrown UDFA and wanted to ensure a quality backup plan past his RFA deal.
Case Keenum – Free agent – Ben Johnson understood the importance of a veteran quarterback in the room, and Keenum fit right in. Keenum, who turns 38 in a few days, may not want to keep playing, but if he wants to stay in the game, a transition to coaching makes sense. He’s played for nine franchises, so his rolodex of contacts is pretty big, and if he and his family enjoyed their year in the Windy City, sticking around Johnson would do wonders for a potential coaching career.
2026 OUTLOOK – The Bears have their guy at quarterback and a QB2 they are very comfortable with, but if Ben wants a similar room, he’ll get a savvy veteran.
If Keenum wants to keep playing, and he can physically still go, bringing him back on another one-year deal makes sense, but if not, they’ll need to find a veteran content with being the QB3, because money dictates they intend to have Bagent as the number two.
Josh Johnson (40 years old) or Brandon Allen (34) could fit as the veteran number three, and depending on his market, 37-year-old Tyrod Taylor could be looking for a gig to close out his career.
Considering they had four last offseason, the Bears could add a fourth quarterback for camp as a UDFA or a younger street free agent. Last offseason’s number four, Austin Reed, recently signed with the Dallas Renegades of the UFL.
What do you think will happen at QB this offseason?
Feb 17, 2018; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Franklyn Kilome's (66) glove and shoes sit on the field as players warm up during the workout at Carpenter Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images
Oh man, first I had to brush up on my low level catchers. Now, I have to research a guy that, prior to this prospecting season, I hadn’t really heard much of.
It isn’t hard to see the highlights and frame and dream he is a future impact player with plus tools everywhere, but he has an enormous distance to go and there are a lot of pitfalls he hasn’t faced yet.
Listen, it’s always fun to dream on a prospect when he really, really young and Espinosa will likely make us do that. Choosing a young player and following his progress as he moves up the chain is a time honored tradition of many fans, so get used to hearing Espinosa’s name a lot as time moves on.
This is an aggressive evaluation of Espinosa meant to illustrate his ceiling. He presents a rare combination of present contact feel and long-term power projection for an up-the-middle prospect. Espinosa’s build comps to Elly De La Cruz at the same age: endless limbs on a broad-shouldered 6-foot-4 frame, with the room to add big strength while remaining sufficiently lithe and agile for shortstop. The 2025 DSL season began a few days before Espinosa’s 17th birthday, and he managed to slash .282/.363/.430 there while posting a 77% contact rate (a shade better than the big league average). That’s a very positive contact-hitting origin point for a shortstop prospect built like this, as long-levered hitters like Espinosa are often still uncoordinated at this age… [l]et’s see how his chase rate trends in year two. He’s one of the more exciting and tumultuous prospects in all of rookie ball.
With each new post, we’ll reveal who won the voting for that particular slot, then post new players for you to vote on, adding another one to the list each time until we get to our final tally of 20. Once we get to 20 top prospects, we’ll do an honorable mention post at the end. If a player gets traded to another team, we’ll just chuck him right on outta here and all the players will move up a spot. If a prospect gets acquired, we’ll ask where he should go on the list.
Probably the most important thing about this whole process – please vote. Give us a few minutes of your time, just click a button and then we can discuss other players and things in the comment section, but don’t forget – VOTE!
Earlier, we completed the first half of our proposed Dallas Cowboys offseason roadmap with some restructures, releases and inside free agent signings. You can review all of that here.
Now we are moving on to adding players, either through free agency or the draft. That will gives us our projected new lineups for both offense and defense.
Part II
Outside Free Agent Signings:
Here is where things get interesting. As aggressive as the Cowboys are at signing their own, they are just as passive signing outside free agents. We have seen and heard a few things recently that may suggest this could change this offseason, so we will be a little more aggressive targeting outside free agents than the Cowboys typically do.
DL John Franklin-Myers – two year, $16M contract
2026 Cap Hit: $6.5M
Franklin-Myers is a hybrid defensive lineman having the ability to play defensive end or defensive tackle in multiple fronts. With Christian Parker expected to play more odd-fronts in Dallas, Franklin-Myers makes a lot of sense. Franklin-Myers size gives him the versatility to play left defensive end in 3-4 or 4-3 fronts, while also having the ability to play the five-technique or three-technique in 3-4 or 4-3 fronts. His position flexibility, pass rush ability, and his recent resurgence as a run defender makes him a prime candidate to land in Dallas this offseason on a respectable deal. Spotrac.com has his market value listed at just under $8M and the deal offered comes in right at that figure for two years.
S Alohi Gilman – two year, $9.5M contract
2026 Cap Hit: $4.5M
With Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson now out based on earlier moves, enter Alohi Gilman. Gilman had an up-and-down career with the Chargers before being traded to the Baltimore Ravens last season. Gilman was tremendous in Baltimore since arriving and proved to be one of the more versatile safeties in the league to close out the season. Gilman would give Parker a guy that has experience and versatility to play deep (314 snaps in 2025), in the box (314 snaps in 2025), or cover out of the slot (106 snaps in 2025) when needed.
LB Quincy Williams – one year, $5.5M contract
2026 Cap Hit: $5,5M
Quincy Williams is also a pretty easy target for the Cowboys, after trading for his brother (Quinnen Williams) last season. Williams had a down year in 2025, like a lot of the New York Jets defenders, but has been graded out as one of the better linebackers in the NFL over the last three-to-four seasons.
S Reed Blankenship – three year, $21M contract
2026 Cap Hit: $8M
With Christian Parker as the Cowboys new defensive coordinator, you should expect him have a loud voice in bringing in some of his guys this offseason. With Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship highlighting the Philadelphia Eagles pending free agents, it’s a wise bet to assume the Cowboys may target one of the two this offseason. With a bigger need at free safety, Blankenship could slide into Malik Hooker’s role as the Cowboys free safety and have a good understanding of what Parker is looking to do on defense.
OT Yosh Nijman – Nijman signs a one year, $2M contract
2026 Cap Hit: $1.2M
There has been a lot of talk about Terence Steele and Tyler Guyton’s jobs so far this offseason. With both players proving their struggles the last two years, it should not surprise anyone if neither player has a starting job in 2026, but with so many holes on defense, it’s tough to imagine creating another massive need on the offensive line who did hold their own in 2025. Yosh Nijman is the ideal fit for the Cowboys. One, because he’ll be somewhat cheap and two, because he has experience playing both left and right tackle at a starting level in the NFL.
Cap Space Remaining After Free Agency:
$14.3M
2026 7-Round Mock Draft
Now to the fun stuff.
Round 1, 12th Overall
The Pick: LSU CB Mansoor Delane
After filling needs in free agency at safety and the defensive line, the Cowboys can now turn their focus to the cornerback position in the first round. Mansoor Delane is a top-graded cornerback heading into the NFL Scouting Combine and it’s tough to imagine that changing. Delane is a pure cover cornerback that lacks ideal size and arm length, but his ability to cover in man or zone and his football IQ is off the charts.
Delane is likely to come out from a physical tool comparison to Philadelphia Eagles CB Quinyon Mitchell, making his fit in Christian Parker’s defense and familiarly with Cowboys’ secondary coach Ryan Smith dating back to Smith’s time with Virginia Tech ideal for Dallas with the 12th overall pick.
TRADE
DAL trades pick 1:20 & 6:215 to DEN for pick 1:30 & 2:61
Round 1, 30th Overall
The Pick: Oklahoma EDGE R Mason Thomas
After trading their second-rounder in 2026 for Quinnen Williams and their third-rounder in 2026 for George Pickens, the Cowboys will be somewhat desperate to pickup a day two pick in the 2026 draft. Trading back 10 spots in round one is a bit of a jump, but picking up Denver’s second-round pick and throwing in our 2026 sixth-round picks to get the deal done is well worth it.
After retaining Jadeveon Clowney and signing John Franklin-Myers in free agency, the Cowboys need for a dominant edge rusher has decreased, but it’s still near the top of the list. Oklahoma’s R Mason Smith is a super fun prospect that still is not getting enough love.
Unlike previous defensive coordinators, Thomas fits the mold as a rush outside linebacker in a Christian Parker defense. Listed at 6’2” 250-lbs, Thomas is a twitched up and explosive pass rusher that has “quick wins” littered throughout his tape. Thomas’ ability to get after quarterbacks is much needed in Dallas after the departure of Micah Parsons, and he can fill the role as designated pass rusher and rotational edge as he continues to fill out and hold up versus the run.
Round 2, 62nd Overall
The Pick: Missouri LB, Josiah Trotter
After adding Quincy Williams in free agency, the Cowboys should see their linebacker play improve in 2026 with Williams and a healthy DeMarvion Overshown. But due to Overshown’s inability to stay healthy and Williams down year in 2025, adding another linebacker to the mix that lacks depth would be wise.
Josiah Trotter has toughness, physicality, and IQ at the linebacker position. Trotter should be mentioned at the top of the list for each of those categories in this draft class.
Round 4, 112th Overall
The Pick: TCU S Bud Clark
After being active in free agency at the safety position, the Cowboys go back to the well in the fourth round to land TCU safety Bud Clark. But Clark is a bit different than Blankenship and Gilman. Clark, a senior from TCU, is known for his ability to play the nickel at a high level, and he proved that all week at the Senior Bowl.
Clark played 313 snaps out of the slot in 2025 and was one of the better coverage safeties in college football in 2025. Clark is tough, physical, and feisty in coverage. With the Cowboys having a need at slot cornerback with Delane and Bland on the outside, Clark would be an excellent addition on day three and has a legit chance to start from day one for the Cowboys.
Round 5, 150th Overall
The Pick: Texas A&M OT Dametrious Crownover
The addition of Yosh Nijman gives the Cowboys a veteran option to push for starting time or be a reliable swing tackle, but adding youth to the room is needed. Nathan Thomas was disappointing in his time on the field in 2025 and Ajani Cornelius was unable to get on the field in his rookie season.
Dametrious Crownover had an up-and-down 2025 season for Texas A&M, but showed some nice signs of improvement at the Senior Bowl. Crownover is a massive man at 6’7”, 330+ pounds, but he moves relatively well for such a big guy and has elite arm length. Crownover has 1,800 snaps played at the right tackle position over the last three years, and could be a potential replacement for Steele down the road if he continues to develop.
Round 5, 175th Overall
The Pick: Oregon CB Jadon Canady
Do you get the theme of this mock offseason yet? We are completely rebuilding the Cowboys secondary. After adding Alohi Gilman, Reed Blankenship, Mansoor Delane, and Bud Clark, the Cowboys add slot cornerback Jadon Canady in the fifth round.
Canady was one of the better cover cornerbacks in college football in 2025 and his ability to cover in the slot would give the Cowboys multiple options at the nickel cornerback spot in 2026.
Round 7, 221st Overall
The Pick: Michigan DL Rayshaun Benny
The defensive line room is pretty crowded, but late on day three the Cowboys address a position of weakness over the last decade plus. The Cowboys inability to stop the run has reared its ugly head for a long time. Michigan’s Rayshaun Benny is a run stuffer from Michigan that brings very little pass rush to the table at the NFL level. Benny could compete with Jay Toia and Perrion Winfrey for the final roster spot in the defensive tackle room, but this late on day three, taking a chance to improve a long-time weakness is a wise idea.
Round 7, 225th Overall
The Pick: Wisconsin EDGE Mason Reiger
Wisconsin’s Mason Reiger is a day three wildcard in this draft class. Reiger is eerily similar to the many Wisconsin edge rushers in the NFL. While lacking elite athletic traits, Reiger plays through the whistle, with great hand technique, and has a variety of ways to win off the edge. Reiger’s tall frame has some tightness, but with his fast hands and clean footwork he showed the ability to generate consistent pressure at Wisconsin.
Projected Offense heading into training camp:
QB: Dak Prescott
RB: Javonte Williams
WR: CeeDee Lamb
WR: George Pickens
WR: Ryan Flournoy
TE: Jake Ferguson
LT: Tyler Guyton (Yosh Nijman competition)
LG: Tyler Smith
OC: Cooper Beebe
RG: Tyler Booker
RT: Terence Steele (Nathan Thomas competition)
Projected Defense heading into training camp:
LDE: John Franklin-Myers (Jadeveon Clowney rotation)
DL: Quinnen Williams (Kenny Clark rotation)
DL: Osa Odighizuwa (John Franklin-Myers rotation)
RDE: Donovan Ezeiruaku (Mason Thomas rotation)
LB: Quincy Williams (Josiah Trotter rotation)
LB: DeMarvion Overshown
CB: Mansoor Delane
CB: DaRon Bland
NCB: Bud Clark
S: Reed Blankenship
S: Alohi Gilman
There you have it, a complete makeover for the Cowboys on defense with some added competition on offense. Would this starting lineup please you? Where would you make improvements on the plan?
They just won their first Olympic gold medal on the US Olympic Skating team at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and Evan Bates and Madison Chock are so close to winning a second one for Ice Dance: Free Dance as a duo.
Bates and Chock became skating partners in 2011 after Chock’s longtime partner, Greg Zuerlein, retired, and Bates parted ways with Emily Samuelson. It wasn’t until five years later that they developed romantic feelings for each other (even though they did go on a couple of dates together when they were teenagers). Now, they’ve taken all that they’ve learned about each other and put those experiences in their passionate ice dance routines.
Gold medalists Madison Chock and Evan Bates of Team United States on day two of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics at Milano Ice Skating Arena on February 8, 2026 in Milan, Italy. Tang Xinyu/VCG via Getty Images
Evan Bates and Madison Chock are still happily married and are relishing all their accomplishments at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
The two tied the knot in Chock’s home island of Kauai in Hawaii in 2024, and the ceremony was officiated by their skating mentor and performance coach Steffany Hanlen. “Getting married means I get to spend the rest of my life with my best friend,” Chock told People about the wedding. “We will face the future and share all of life’s moments together, supporting and celebrating each other.”
“I think we’ve changed so much as people over the years that our experience will undoubtedly be different this time,” Chock told the Associated Press. “Just what we’ve learned, how we’ll handle ourselves under pressure, how we’ll enjoy the moment — there’s a lot to look forward to but a lot of experience to guide us as well.”
The couple has immensely prepared for their upcoming competition. “Our perspective has shifted over the four Olympic cycles we’ve been through,” Bates said at the recent U.S. Olympic Committee media summit in New York City in Nov. 2025. “There’s more of an appreciation for the difficult times than what we’ve had in the past. We recognize the value of each and every moment, the good ones and the bad ones alike.”
In an interview with Us Weekly before the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, Bates recounted the evolution of their relationship. “We skated together for five years and it was just a friendship, but the friendship was good,” Bates said. “From day one, we always had a connection. We were laughing, we enjoyed our time together. It made skating so fun. Over the five years, we had success, but also didn’t have success. We had a lot of trying times. In those trying times, I really realized how much I relied on Maddie and really felt connected to her in a way that went beyond just as a skating partner.”
He continued, “I remember thinking, ‘I can’t really imagine one day walking out of the rink and going our separate ways, being friends and just not seeing each other anymore.’ I made the realization, I shared the realization and, luckily, the realization was reciprocated. That changed everything in our relationship and our partnership.”
“Skating was always the main focus, but as we’ve gotten older, I think the relationship has become the main focus,” Bates said in an interview with People in January. “Skating obviously is still the main focus, but skating is kind of like our means of strengthening ourselves and our relationship and going through all the experiences of life together, and so the appreciation for the partnership has grown.”
In an interview with Today, Bates, 36, and Chock, 32, talked about their future after their figure skating careers. “We don’t know what the future holds for us, but we know that we’ll be riding through it and supporting each other,” Bates said. As for options, Chock is an experienced designer and has designed costumes for the Spain and Georgia national teams, while Bates loves to golf.
Tunisia: Sabri Lamouchi speaks about his attachment to the national team
Tunisia: Sabri Lamouchi speaks about his attachment to the national team
Appointed as the new head coach of Tunisia a few weeks ago, Sabri Lamouchi opened up about his passion for the Carthage Eagles.
Following AFCON 2025, Tunisia chose Sabri Lamouchi as their new manager—a decision met with criticism from Tunisian supporters who questioned the former Rennes coach's connection to the country. Lamouchi had previously opted to represent the French national team, earning 12 caps.
At a press conference, Sabri Lamouchi made a point to clear the air regarding his commitment to the national side. "In 1993, I was playing in Division 2 in France. The federation didn’t come for me, that’s not true. My cousin pushed for it. I was called up, I went, and you all know I didn’t play. If I hadn’t wanted to go, I wouldn’t have gone. I went and the welcome was what it was. And if you ask me if I had a conversation with the coach, I don’t remember one. Why did I warm up for 30 minutes without coming on? My opinion on dual nationals probably won’t please you. I was made to understand that the Tunisian player was better than the one playing in Tunisia. And they were right. Later, when I arrived at Auxerre, nobody came back to me. Then France called me up, along with many dual nationals. Our France. And that’s when people started talking. I can accept anything, but don’t come and question the love I have for Tunisia and the man I am." he declared.
OFFICIAL: Magesi sack John Maduka, announce successor
Magesi announce Maduka departure and confirm new coach
Photo: Phillip Maeta/ Gallo Images
Betway Premiership side Magesi FC have announced the departure of head coach John Maduka following a string of poor results.
The Malawian tactician was placed on recess as he watched from the stands when the Limpopo-based outfit lost to Orlando Pirates in the league a fortnight ago.
Maduka was also absent on the bench when Magesi were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup in the Round of 32 by Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Upington City at the weekend.
The former Royal AM mentor leaves the club at the bottom of the log standings, with 11 points picked up from 15 league outings.
Meanwhile, Magesi moved swiftly to appoint veteran tactician Allan Freese as Maduka's successor in the hot seat.
The 69-year-old mentor was last in charge of a PSL team in 2022, where he was at the helm of All Stars in the South African second-tier.
However, Freese recently had a spell with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club, serving as the Technical Director to Rulani Mokwena.
It remains to be seen whether his vast amount of experience can steer Magesi away from the relegation zone, as the club achieved the feat under Owen Da Gama last season.
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 4: Cameron Heyward #97 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at Acrisure Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward sparked speculation on his football future this week with a post on X. The All-Pro defensive lineman posted a GIF of someone closing a book, making it seem as if he was closing the book on his career – at least that’s what many assumed.
Considering he is 36, and that his long-time head coach, Mike Tomlin, stepped down, no one would be truly surprised if Heyward decided to hang up his cleats. However, that isn’t the case.
Speaking on Not Just Football, Heyward says that he was signalling the NFL season coming to an end.
“We’re gonna close the book on the season,” Heyward said. “I closed the book on the season, as well.”
Heyward will be entering his 16th season in the NFL, should he return in 2026. He was named an All-Pro for the sixth time in 2025.
Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!
Jan 24, 2026; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Nate Kingz (4) shoots during the second half against the Miami Hurricanes at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images | Rich Barnes-Imagn Images
What new drama awaits us tonight as the Syracuse Orange (13-11, 4-7) host the California Golden Bears (17-7, 5-6). Tip-off is at 7:00 on ESPNU with Jay Alter and Randolph Childress on the call. This is the third time the programs have met in New York, but the first time in Syracuse.
Here’s what we’re predicting:
Kevin: California 79, Syracuse 78
Tyler Betsey gets hot in the first half and Adrian Autry starts him in the second. Betsey’s shooting opens up the lane for the Orange guards and William Kyle benefits with some lobs and offensive rebounds. Cal runs a play in the final minute to get Chris Bell a look and because we can’t have nice things it hits the back rim, front rim and drops in to give Cal the win. Fans flood the comments to bemoan Autry letting Bell leave.
Dom:Syracuse 77, California 70
The Golden Bears are very much a hot and cold team. In just the last few weeks, they upset UNC, then lost to Florida State two games later, then narrowly beat Miami before barely squeaking by Georgia Tech. The hope, and my prediction, is ‘Cuse gets Cal on the right day for the Orange. Cal’s lack of frontcourt defense allows Donnie Freeman to bounce back while William Kyle has a strong performance, while the Orange’s guards play 85% as well as it did against UVA to match what the Golden Bears have on the perimeter.
Szuba: Syracuse 78, Cal 77
Cal has been competitive on the road this season. The Golden Bears shoot it well from three and the defense is fair to good. But, Cal is a perimeter-oriented team that wants to shoot outside the paint and doesn’t rebound well. I’ll take the Orange to get back on track (against a limited frontcourt) as Freeman and Kyle do the same.
Max:Syracuse 72, California 66
A common trend across the major sports holds true for Cal as well: it struggles when traveling to the East Coast (1-3). On top of that, this is a very favorable matchup for the Orange, whose defense and rebounding advantage should keep the Golden Bears off the scoreboard more often than not. Unless Chris Bell goes nuclear from three, which is definitely a possibility given the way this season is going, I like SU to snap its two-game skid in front of the Dome crowd.
Hansi Flick head coach of Barcelona gives instructions to Jules Kounde centre-back of Barcelona and France during the Spanish Super Cup final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
Jules Kounde’s season has been a cause for concern at Barcelona, but his coach still has complete belief in the full-back’s ability to play at his best ahead of the biggest games of the season for the club.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Hansi Flick was asked about Kounde’s poor form in what has been a subpar season for the Frenchman, especially compared to his otherworldly performances last season. Hansi admitted that Jules hasn’t had his best days lately but praised the Frenchman’s mentality and fighting spirit, and believes Kounde will show his best version against Atlético Madrid in their Copa del Rey semi-final tie on Thursday.
“Jules is a fighter. He’s always focused. We’re all human, and sometimes you don’t have your best day, but he’s always fighting. Even when things don’t start well. I appreciate what he’s doing. He has a top-notch mentality. He’ll show that tomorrow. It will be a tough match for everyone. I like what I see from Atlético, with a clear philosophy.”
Kounde played an incredible amount of minutes at the highest level for Barça last season, so it was perhaps unreasonable to expect him to carry that form over to a new season, especially when the demands for full-backs in Hansi Flick’s system are so high. But if Flick believes he can regain his best form, then I’ll believe too. Hansi Flick knows stuff.
Saints achieve three-goal deficit win for only the THIRD time in the Championship
With an hour gone at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday night, Southampton were three goals down however after incredible fightback, the Saints roared back before Shea Charles sealed a 4-3 in stoppage time.
Of course, Southampton's fightback was equally Leicester City's collapse. The Foxes defence is the second worst in the Championship this season having shipped 51 goals in just 32 matches with only Sheffield Wednesday having conceded more (62).
Incredibly, overturning a three-goal deficit to go on to win a game has only happened twice in the Championship since its rebrand early in the 2000s.
Paul Butler scored what may have felt like a consolation at the time with Robbie Blake, David Healy from the spot, and an 86th-minute goal from Liam Miller completing a remarkable turnaround with his only goal for the club in his loan spell.
Like Southampton, Leeds were also on both sides of a three-goal collapse as we flash forward to September 2010.
Admittedly, the Whites' three-goal cushion didn't last quite as long against Preston North End that day. No sooner had Davide Somma made it 4-1 with his second of the game in a frantic first half had Preston pulled it back to 4-2 through Jon Parkin's second.
The Lancashire team scored four unanswered goals in the second half to make the score 4-6 in a ten goal thriller with Parkin completing his hat-trick. However, Leeds eventually finished seventh that year while Preston ended up in League One.
Kasey Kane of Iowa State in action against Butler on Sunday (Feb. 8). | Iowa State Athletics
CEDAR FALLS – The Iowa State softball team began their season last weekend at the Doc Halverson Invitational in Cedar Falls. The indoor games were spread out over three days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the UNI-Dome.
Friday, the Cyclones opened with a loss to Omaha 13-5 in 6 innings. Saturday, the Cyclones beat Kansas City 16-2 in 5 innings for their first win of the year, but fell again to Omaha 5-4 later in the day. Sunday was the best day for the Cyclones, winning twice over Butler 16-4 in 5 innings and getting a 5-3 win over UNI.
Iowa State will play again this weekend at the Dream City Invitational in Arlington, Texas. Foes waiting for the Cyclones are Tulsa, Wisconsin, and the University of Texas-Arlington. Iowa State will play five games at the event.
Iowa State, who placed third in the Big 12 last year, returns all but two starters. Key players back are 2025 All-Big 12 Team members Tatum Johnson, Karlee Ford, and Jessie Clemons. Clemons was a 1st Team and All-Freshman selection, Johnson was a 2nd Team member, and Ford was on the All-Freshman team. The Cyclones appearance in the Doc Halverson Invite was their fourth ever, and first time since 2023. They will also play in another indoor tournament this month at the University of Minnesota. As a team, the Cyclones reached the semifinals of the Big 12 tournament last year and the third place finish in league play was their highest conference finish as members of the Big 12 Conference. Iowa State had 31 wins last year. The Cyclones 3-2 record to start the season is the first time they have had a winning record after the opening weekend since the 2022 season.
Game 1 – Omaha 13, Iowa State 5 – 6 Innings
The Cyclones fell to the University of Omaha 13-5 in six innings in their season opening game for the 2026 season. The Mavericks are ranked No. 3 in the D1 week 1 softball mid-major poll and three-time defending Summit League tournament champs.
Iowa State faced Maddia Groff, the reigning Summit League Pitcher of the Year. Groff struck out seven ISU batters in six innings to get the win. She gave up five runs, all earned and faced 23 batters. Iowa State’s Lauren Schurman took the loss after giving up seven runs, all earned, over two and a thirds innings. Schurman struck out two, walked six and faced ten batters. Ava Mullen and Jaiden Ralston also pitched.
Bradley transfer Bailey Sample smashed a two-run home run in the first inning to give Omaha a 2-0 lead. The Cyclones would tie the game at 2-2 in the top of the third inning. Sydney Malott blasted a solo home run to cut the Maverick lead to 2-1. Jessie Clemons hit a two-out double who would score on a bloop single by Tatum Johnson to tie the game.
Omaha answered the Cyclones’ runs in the third with five runs to take a 7-2 lead. The big hits were a two-run single by Sammy Schmidt and a RBI hit by Ava Rongish. Iowa State scored twice in the top of the fourth to cut the lead to 7-4. A sac fly by Isabelle Norsan, scoring Karlee Ford was followed by a solo homer by Kadence Shepherd to score the second run.
Omaha second baseman Katherine Johnson led off the fifth inning with a solo home run part of a three-run fifth to take a 10-4 lead. Reaggan Bartholomew hit a solo home run in the top of the sixth to cut the Omaha lead to 10-5. In the bottom of the sixth, a three-run home run by Sammy Schmidt walked off the win for the Mavericks.
Iowa State was out hit 10 to 6. Five of the six Cyclone hits were of the extra base variety. The Cyclones hit three solo home runs from Reaggan Bartholomew, Kadence Shepherd, and Sydney Malott. Karlee Ford had a triple and Jessie Clemons a double. The other hit was from Tatum Johnson. Five different Cyclones had a RBI in the game.
Doc Halverson Invitational
Friday, February 6-Sunday, February 8
At Cedar Falls
Friday, February 6
Game 1 – Omaha 13, Iowa State 5 – 6 Innings
1 2 3 4 5 6 R H E
Iowa State 0 0 2 2 0 1 5 6 1
Omaha 2 0 5 0 3 3 13 10 0
WP – M. Groff (1-0); LP – Lauren Schurman (0-1)
Batting – 2b – Jessie Clemons (1); 3b – Karlee Ford (1); HR – Reaggan Bartholomew (1), Kadence Shepherd (1), Sydney Malott (1). Sac – Isabelle Nasan (1). RBI’s – Tatum Johnson (1), Reaggan Bartholomew (1), Isabelle Norsan (1), Kadence Shepherd (1), Sydney Malott (1).
Game 2 – Iowa State 16, Kansas City 2 – 5 innings
The Cyclones won their first game of the season in grand fashion, routing Kansas City 16-2 in five innings. The Cyclone offense exploded for 16 runs on 13 hits. The top of Iowa State’s batting order of Jessie Clemons, Tatum Johnson, and Reaggan Bartholomew combined for eight of the 13 Cyclone hits. Clemons and Bartholomew each had three hits. All three had two RBI’s while Kadence Shepherd had a team high three RBI’s. Tiana Poole also had a multi-hit game. Bartholomew hit her second home run of the season in the game.
Liv Palumbo was the winning pitcher for the Cyclones after pitching all five innings in her first collegiate start. She gave up six hits, two runs, walked four, and struck out three.
Iowa State led 1-0 after the first inning and 2-0 going to the bottom of the second inning. A RBI single by Tatum Johnson scored Jessie Clemons who led off the game with an infield single. Iowa State’s second run on a Clemons sac fly scored Tiana Poole who led off the second with an infield single.
In the Roos second, Kansas City tied the game at 2-2 after two innings. Iowa State took the lead in the top of the third, 3-2. Over the fourth and fifth innings, Iowa State combined to score 13 of their runs with six in the fourth and seven in the top of the fifth. In the fourth, Iowa State scored six runs on two hits, however, the Cyclones took advantage of five walks and a wild pitch to take a 9-2 lead. In the fifth, the Cyclones scored seven runs on six hits Clemons, Bartholomew, and Malott all had RBI singles and Poole had an RBI double. McKenna Andrews had a RBI on a sac fly and Kadence Shepherd drove in two on a fielder’s choice.
Saturday, February 7
Game 2 – Iowa State 16, Kansas City 2 – 5 innings
1 2 3 4 5 R H E
Iowa State 1 1 1 6 7 16 13 0
Kansas City 0 2 0 0 0 2 6 1
WP – Liv Palumbo (1-0); LP – B. Seppi (0-1)
Batting: ISU – 2b – Tatum Johnson (1), Karlee Ford (1), Tiana Poole (1). 3b – Karlee Ford (1); HR – Reaggan Bartholomew (1). Sac Hit – McKenna Andrews (1). Sac. Fly – Jessie Clemons (1), McKenna Andrews (1). RBI’s – Kadence Shepherd (3), J. Clemons (2), Tatum Johnson (2), Reaggan Bartholomew (2), Sydney Malott (1), Isabelle Nosan (1), Kasey Kane (1), Tiana Poole (1), McKenna Andrews (1). BB – Karlee Ford (2), Kadence Sheperd (1), Reaggan Bartholomew (1), Isabelle Nosan (1), McKenna Andrews (1). Stolen Bases – Jessie Clemons (1), McKenna Andrews (1).
Game 3 – Omaha 5, Iowa State 4
The Cyclones played the Mavericks for the second time in two days. Though the result was the same, a loss, Iowa State played better, falling 5-4. The loss set the Cyclones record at 1-2. Omaha never trailed in the game and led 3-0 through two innings. The big hit was an Emma Durr two-run home run in the top of the second inning.
Iowa State would cut the Maverick lead to 3-2 in the bottom of the fourth inning. Back-to-back singles from Reaggan Bartholomew and Karlee Ford led off the inning. Kasey Kane scorched a two-out double, her first college hit, scoring both Bartholomew and Ford.
The Mavericks would take a 5-2 lead with a two-run top of the fifth inning. Iowa State wasn’t done yet, scoring two runs in the bottom of the sixth to get within 5-4. A pair of one-out singles led to the eventual ISU runs. The Cyclones left the bases loaded in the inning.
Iowa State’s defense committed three errors in the game while the offense stranded nine runners in the game. Iowa State had runners in scoring positions in each of the final four innings, but could not score more than the four runs they had.
Ava Mullen was the starting Iowa State pitcher and allowed three runs in two and a third innings of work while taking the loss. Jaiden Ralson pitched the final four and a third innings in relief.
Alexis Wiggins relieved starting Omaha winning pitcher Grace Hornbuckle in the sixth inning to get the last five outs for the save.
Iowa State would out-hit Omaha 8 to 5. Kadence Shepherd, Kasey Kane, and Tiana Poole all had doubles in the game.
Saturday, February 7
Game 3 – Omaha 5, Iowa State 4
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
Omaha 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 5 5 0
Iowa State 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 8 3
WP – Grace Hornbuckle (1-0); LP – Ava Mullen (0-1)
The Cyclones evened their overall record at 2-2 in their first four games with a 16-4 win over Butler in five innings. The 16 runs was the second time in four games that ISU scored that many runs.
Ava Paulsen got the start for Iowa State, her second. She worked into the second inning before giving way to Lauren Schurman who would pitch two and a third innings in relief to get the win.
Six Iowa State players had multi-hit games and the Cyclones had 17 hits in the game. Jessie Clemons and McKenna Andrews each had three hits. Reaggan Bartholomew, Kadence Shepherd, Sydney Malott, and Kasey Kane each had two hits. Tatum Johnson had four RBI’s, Shepherd had three RBI’s, and three other ISU players had two RBI’s.
Iowa State led 3-0 after the first inning, but Butler scored two in the top of the second inning to set the score at 3-2. Iowa State would take control of the game in the bottom of the second inning, putting up seven runs to take a 10-2 lead. Two more runs scored in the bottom of the third and four came home in the bottom of the fourth to give the Cyclones a 16-2 lead. Butler scored the final runs of the game in the top of the fifth inning.
Sunday, February 8
Game 4 – Iowa State 16, Butler 4 – 5 innings
1 2 3 4 5 R H E
Butler 0 2 0 0 2 4 6 1
Iowa State 3 7 2 4 X 16 17 0
WP – Lauren Schurman (1-1); LP – K. Petran (0-2)
Batting: ISU – 2b – Reaggan Bartholomew (2), Jessie Clemons (1), Kadence Shepherd (1); 3b – none; HR – Tatum Johnson (1); RBI’s – Tatum Johnson (4), Kadence Shepherd (3), Sydney Malott (2), Reaggan Bartholomew (2), Ava Wilmes (2), Karlee Ford (1). SB – McKenna Andrews (1), Sydney Malott (1), Kadence Shepherd (1). BB’s – Reaggan Bartholomew (2), Karlee Ford (1), Kadence Shepherd (1).
Game 5 – Iowa State 5, UNI 4
The Cyclones got their third win in their first five outings with a big 5-3 win over in-state foe UNI. The Cyclones had to fight back after a 3-1 deficit after the fourth inning to get the win. Liv Palumbo was the starting pitcher, but would give way to Ava Mullen, who would yield to Lauren Schurman who would get the win, her second on the year. Palumbo went three and a third innings and allowed two earned runs on five hits. Mullen finished the fourth and Schurman pitched the final three innings.
Offensively, Reaggan Bartholomew stayed white hot, collecting three hits for the second straight game. Karlee Ford, Tiana Poole, and McKenna Andrews each had two hits. Five of the 13 Iowa State hits were for extra bases.
Iowa State scored the first run of the game in the top of the first inning. A two-out double by Reaggan Bartholomew set the stage. Karlee Ford then drove her in on a RBI single and a 1-0 lead. After the Panthers scored three times to take the lead in the fourth inning to take a 3-1 lead, Iowa State answered in the top of the fifth inning.
In the inning, Bartholomew led off with a single and went to third on a Ford double. Kadence Shepherd scored Bartholomew on a sac fly for a 3-2 score. Sydney Malott tied the game with an RBI single, scoring Ford. Kasey Kane doubled, sending Malott to third. Tiana Poole then singled in Malott and a wild pitch would score Kane to get the Cyclones a 5-3 lead.
Sunday, February 8
Game 5 – Iowa State 5, UNI 4
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
Iowa State 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 5 13 1
UNI 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 7 0
WP – Lauren Schurman (2-1); LP – M. McDermott (0-1)
England will complete their World Cup preparations with matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida in June.
The Three Lions will be based in Kansas City, Missouri for the tournament, which will take place across Canada, Mexico and the United States between 11 June and 19 July.
Thomas Tuchel's side will hold their pre-tournament training camp in Florida and face New Zealand on Saturday, 6 June before taking on Costa Rica on Wednesday, 10 June at venues yet to be announced.
England's training base for the tournament will be the state-of-the-art Swope Soccer Village, after the Football Association (FA) identified Kansas City as its preferred location in January 2025.
Swope Soccer Village is a training facility of Major League Soccer (MLS) club Sporting Kansas City, located in Kansas City's Swope Park.
England will play their three World Cup group games in the United States, contesting matches against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June, Ghana in Boston on 23 June, and Panama in New Jersey on 27 June.
Tuchel's squad will travel to each location from their Kansas City base and return after each game.
England's final fixtures on home soil before they travel to the United States will take place at Wembley next month, with matches against Uruguay on Friday, 27 March and Japan on Tuesday, 31 March.
England have not met New Zealand since 1991, when the nations played two matches in Auckland and Wellington.
The Three Lions previously faced Costa Rica in the group stage of the 2014 World Cup, when they played out a goalless draw, and won a warm-up match for the 2018 tournament 2-0.
England completed a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign in November, achieving eight wins from eight without conceding a goal.
Notepad just picked up Markdown support last year, much to the chagrin of many longtime users. Microsoft has now provided details of a severe vulnerability tied to the feature, which it says has been patched.
Intel's 10 years of integrated graphics have yielded massive performance improvements, according to recent testing by Phoronix. The latest testing shows that moving from Intel Gen 9 integrated graphics in the "Kaby Lake" CPUs introduced in 2016 to the modern Intel Arc B390 with Xe3 cores in "Panther Lake," results in a 12x performance boost and a 8x performance-per-watt efficiency increase. This is remarkable progress for Intel's iGPU team, delivering steady performance improvements year-over-year, with a significant boost in recent years. Phoronix tested iGPUs of top-end Core models, including: Core i7 8550U "Kaby Lake," Core i7 8565U "Whiskey Lake," Core i7 1065G7 "Ice Lake," Core i7 1185G7 "Tiger Lake," Core i7 1280P "Alder Lake," Core Ultra 7 155H "Meteor Lake," Core Ultra 7 258V "Lunar Lake," and finally the Core Ultra X7 358H "Panther Lake" processor.
The oldest among these is the "Kaby Lake" generation, which utilized Intel UHD Graphics 620 on Gen 9 architecture, while the newest is Intel's most powerful creation to date—Arc B390 based on Xe3 cores. Comparing the 14 nm FinFET Intel node to the TSMC N3E node reveals a massive gap not only in performance but also in efficiency. In the geometric mean of all test results, Intel has achieved an 11.97x performance improvement from the 14 nm Gen 9 iGPU era to the modern 3 nm Xe3 iGPU era. This performance increase is accompanied by a significant efficiency gain, resulting from new nodes and more work done per watt, which Phoronix calculated to be 8x. While the "Lunar Lake" platform is the smaller power consumer with an average power draw of 13.82 W and a maximum of 36.97 W, "Panther Lake" uses a slightly higher average of 26.86 W and a maximum draw of 55.59 W for nearly twice the result.
Sign up now, Troopers - the fight for the future of humanity begins with YOU as Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War! prepares to deploy on March 16th 2026! The pristine beaches of Zegema Beach are waiting for aspiring Citizens to join the fight. Even now, our Troopers are striving to save this Federation-sculpted paradise from the Arachnid menace with an immersive demo available NOW!
Would you like to know more? For the first time we're bringing you approved footage live from the Battlefield!
ADLINK Technology Inc., a global leader in edge AI computing, announced the expansion of its product portfolio with four high-performance, server-class edge AI systems—the ISB-W890 server board, and the AXE-7440GW, AXE-7420GWA, and AXE-7220GW GPU servers. This new lineup is purpose-built on the Intel Xeon 600 processors, complementing ADLINK's existing Edge AI platforms by addressing more compute-intensive workloads, enabling high-end, real-time vision processing, advanced analytics, and large-scale generative AI at the edge.
As industries move beyond AI pilots, the demand for server-class performance at the edge is growing rapidly, particularly for real-time visual intelligence and on-site generative AI inference. ADLINK's Edge AI servers support high-end vision processing and analytics—including VLA workloads—making them ideal for demanding environments like medical imaging, robotics, and smart factory AOI, where latency, accuracy, and reliability are critical.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating fatal crashes involving vehicles using BlueCruise, following incidents in 2024 where Fords failed to respond to stopped vehicles on highways. According to federal data, Ford has reported 32 crashes – including three fatalities – linked to its automated driving technologies since BlueCruise was introduced in 2021.
Starting with Minecraft: Bedrock Edition 26.0, Mojang is switching to a year-based versioning scheme. The update also refreshes several baby mob models and textures, fixes a Nether Portal lava ignition bug, and includes smaller gameplay polish under the hood.
January 2026 has marked an all-time high for total global bookings for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, according to a statement. The company credits strong demand across its global destination portfolio for the 20% increase in bookings compared to January 2025. “This record-breaking month underscores continued momentum for the brand and sustained demand for Regent’s unrivaled...
Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-packed weekend in Little Rock, as the legendary Monster Jam makes its highly anticipated return to the Simmons Bank Arena from February 28 to March 1, 2026. Monster Jam is a thrilling live motorsport event that promises an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. With incredible monster trucks, jaw-dropping stunts, and intense head-to-head racing, this event is the definition of high-octane fun.
Unleashing Monster Trucks and Daredevil Stunts
The Simmons Bank Arena will come alive as some of the world’s most talented drivers showcase their incredible skills and fearless stunts. The massive monster trucks will tear through the dirt, performing high-speed races, gravity-defying flips, and extreme tricks that will leave fans on the edge of their seats. This is no ordinary motorsport event—it’s a spectacle of pure power and agility, with each truck pushing the limits of what’s possible.
Expect to see larger-than-life trucks soaring through the air, navigating dirt ramps with jaw-dropping precision, and performing wild spins and flips that defy gravity. Fans will witness the raw power of these monstrous machines as they race against one another in thrilling competitions, each maneuver more daring than the last. The trucks will be pushing their engines to the limit, battling for supremacy in a fierce display of speed and control.
Interactive Fan Experience
Monster Jam isn’t just a spectator event; it’s a truly interactive experience for fans. The excitement doesn’t stop at simply watching the action unfold in front of you. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate by scoring the drivers in real-time. Fans can rate each driver’s stunts, skills, and saves, offering an up-close and personal way to become part of the action. This added layer of interaction creates a deeper connection to the event, allowing fans to feel like they are actively involved in the competition.
The real-time scoring adds another level of excitement, as fans will see how their own evaluations stack up against others in the arena. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Monster Jam or attending for the first time, this interactive element will make the experience even more thrilling and memorable.
Unrivaled Entertainment for All Ages
Monster Jam is the perfect event for families, adrenaline junkies, and anyone looking to experience heart-pounding motorsport action. The event brings together people of all ages, making it an ideal outing for friends, families, and anyone who appreciates incredible stunts and high-speed thrills. Little Rock’s Simmons Bank Arena will be transformed into a dynamic, high-energy environment where fans can cheer on their favorite drivers, watch in awe as trucks perform insane tricks, and feel the rush of excitement that only Monster Jam can deliver.
Whether you’re there for the monster trucks, the races, or the epic stunts, there’s something for everyone. Fans of all ages will find themselves on the edge of their seats as they watch the trucks soar through the air, race through dirt tracks, and showcase their most impressive stunts. The electrifying atmosphere, the high-energy action, and the roaring engines will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Event Details You Don’t Want to Miss
Venue: Simmons Bank Arena, Little Rock, USA
Dates: February 28 – March 1, 2026
The event will be held at the state-of-the-art Simmons Bank Arena, which is known for hosting major events and concerts. The arena provides the perfect setting for Monster Jam, ensuring that fans have the best possible view of all the action. With a spacious seating arrangement, fans will have an up-close experience, making every jump, flip, and race even more exciting.
The venue’s central location in Little Rock makes it easily accessible for both local and out-of-town visitors. Whether you’re from Little Rock or planning to travel to the city for the event, the Simmons Bank Arena offers a top-notch experience in a vibrant and welcoming city.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Monster Jam in Little Rock
If you’ve never experienced Monster Jam before, 2026 is the year to change that. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of monster trucks, this event is sure to impress. With its high-energy stunts, fierce racing, and interactive elements, Monster Jam offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Get ready for an action-packed weekend that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting event in Little Rock!
From February 28 to March 1, 2026, be sure to join fans from all over for a thrilling weekend filled with speed, skill, and incredible stunts. Monster Jam at Simmons Bank Arena promises to be one of the most exciting events of the year, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!
Due to being impacted by a particularly wet winter season, the entire United Kingdom is currently under flood warnings, with nearly ninety flood warnings in place, most centered in southern England and parts of Scotland. Cornwall and County Down have experienced their wettest January in recorded history.
Flood warnings are common in Dorset and Somerset, where rising levels of rivers and ground are flooding communities. Forecasts predict the UK will receive more rain this Wednesday and Thursday. Areas that are currently flooded will receive additional flooding. The Midlands will continue to have warnings until the flood waters recede as The River Trent and The River Severn continue to flood.
Weather Alerts
Weather conditions are anticipated to change on Friday. The conditions have been wet and will continue to be wet in the immediate future; however, the wet conditions will be interrupted by the arrival of cold weather that brings the likelihood of snowfall and ice. This abrupt change in weather has caused health alerts to be issued across the UK, especially in areas with anticipated significant drops in temperature.
The chances of experiencing snow increase as wet weather transitions to cold weather conditions, especially in the North of the UK. As the weather gets colder, mixing with the wet weather and snow, this can increase flooding and create new elements of wild flooding. With more cold weather in the future, road traveling will become more dangerous, and people must take more precaution when traveling.
Reasons for Flooding in the UK, Somerset, and Dorset
Southern England‘s weather, flooding, and all the rain in the last few months mean Northern Ireland and East Scotland have all experienced extreme weather and flooding. The rapid flow of water in some Dorset and Somerset areas has caused the most flooding and the most damage. Because rain has been constant, areas stay flooded longer, and people experienced longer periods with flood alerts.
The Environment Agency is obligated to remain informative and to provide flood safety suggestions to people living in flood risk areas. In addition to the alerts that flood-risk areas receive, the Environment Agency and the SEPA provide estimates of flooding and safety suggestions in addition to the social media suggestions that have been provided to risk areas.
Slow Flooding Response in the River Severn and Trent
While the flooding in Dorset and Somerset is likely more severe, the situation in the Midlands, along the River Severn and River Trent, presents a different problem. These two rivers are slow to respond to rainfall, which means that the floodwaters are going to take longer to recede. River flooding branch warnings will likely diminish due to the rivers moving towards the ocean. The risk still exists.
The nature of slow-moving rivers means that floodwaters will likely remain to cause some problems. As a result, authorities have asked areas of flooding to remain prepared as the water may take a while to recede.
Optimistic Weather Predictions
The end of the month may bring some good news for the UK as more settled weather is expected to start. However, due to severe flooding warnings, the weather is expected to stay unsettled for the flooding situation. Weather and flooding situations are expected to stay settled, and authorities are encouraging people living in areas affected by floods to prepare for disruptions.
Again and again, the UK has witnessed problems arising from wet weather and flooding, sparking alarm regarding the oncoming threat of climate change in the area. Each instance of abnormal weather behavior has shown the importance of taking necessary actions to combat the dangers associated with flooding and other severe weather phenomena.
Flood warnings are even now noted across the UK as places like Cornwall, Somerset, and Scotland enter icy, snow-bound weather. With flooding and icy environments threatening the safety of the inhabitants, communities must rely on the alerts put out by the SEPA and Environment Agency. Once sufficient adjustments are made to downward temperatures, more stable weather patterns with higher temperatures in the midst will be a change in priorities, focusing on the other pull of abnormal weather—recovery.
It has been an unprecedented time of weather in the UK. With flooding, snow, and ice at the forefront of everyone’s mind, communities will be required to weather the storm of severe flooding.
The government through the President of Angola, João Lourenço, has approved the green light for a transformational public investment worth $500 million meant to transform the country’s coastal tourism infrastructure. The government has approved this project through the President’s Executive Orders No. 32/26 and No. 33/26, which aims at developing integrated infrastructure in areas with immense potential such as Cabo Ledo, Quicombo, and Namibe. This project is sure to alter the global tourism landscape.
Tackling Infrastructure Challenges with Strategic Investment
The $500 million investment will be funded by the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, marking an important step in Angola’s tourism growth. This funding will be a cornerstone of the Planifica Turismo program, which focuses on addressing one of the key barriers to tourism development: the lack of basic utilities in these high-potential areas. The government aims to create the conditions necessary for international investors to develop tourism infrastructure, particularly through improvements in water supply, sanitation, electricity, telecommunications, and public lighting. This will help make Angola an even more attractive and accessible destination.
Minister of Tourism, Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, has confirmed that the planned upgrades include new access roads, better water systems, and enhanced sanitation facilities, which are expected to have an immediate impact on both tourist experiences and local communities. These improvements will ensure that the coastal tourism sector thrives, bringing benefits that go beyond just tourism revenue.
A Strategic Focus on Key Coastal Areas for Long-Term Growth
The investment is primarily focused on key coastal corridors, including Pipas Bay (Saco Mar), Tômbwa Bay, Três Irmãos Bay in Moçâmedes, and Quicombo Bay in Cuanza Sul. These areas are already known for their natural beauty, making them ideal candidates for tourism development. With the infrastructure improvements, Angola is setting the stage for these regions to become major tourism hubs, attracting both local and international tourists.
This initiative is part of a broader rebranding strategy for Angola, spearheaded by Julia Kleber, the CEO of Kleber Group. Kleber has worked closely with the government to reshape Angola’s image and project the country as a premier African tourism destination. The $500 million investment aligns with this vision by providing the necessary infrastructure to support a growing tourism sector and elevate Angola’s international profile.
Reducing Barriers for Private Investment and Boosting Competitiveness
The government’s focus on infrastructure is not just about tourism growth; it’s also about making Angola a more competitive destination on the global tourism map. By improving basic utilities, the government is lowering the entry costs for private investors, creating a more attractive environment for both local and international developers. As a result, Angola’s coastal regions will likely see an influx of private tourism projects, from resorts to tourism infrastructure, that would have otherwise been delayed due to insufficient utilities.
This investment will also help Angola meet growing demand from tourists seeking authentic experiences in unexplored destinations. By improving accessibility, safety, and overall urban functionality, Angola is making itself an appealing choice for high-end tourism.
Addressing Delays and Creating Future Opportunities
The new $500 million initiative addresses the delays many private developers have faced due to poor infrastructure. Although there has been growing interest from both national and international investors, the lack of essential services has hindered the region’s potential. The improvements will not only eliminate this bottleneck but will also pave the way for a more efficient and effective development process, creating a future-proof foundation for tourism growth.
Angola’s recent accolades, such as being named the Best Tourism Investment Destination by the Global Tourism Forum in 2025, have set the stage for this massive investment. This recognition has raised Angola’s profile in the global tourism community, providing the country with the momentum it needs to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
Sustainable Tourism Development: Building for the Future
The $500 million investment isn’t just about building infrastructure; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustainable tourism growth in the long term. The government aims to ensure that these coastal areas can sustain growth while improving the quality of life for local communities. By prioritizing public investment in essential services, the government is not only attracting tourism developers but also ensuring that the benefits of this development reach local populations through job creation and improved living standards.
The Planifica Turismo program, which provides the framework for this initiative, focuses on territorial organization and urban functionality, ensuring that Angola’s tourism sector remains competitive in the coming decades. The improvements will also support sustainable tourism practices, fostering growth that benefits both the economy and environment.
Future Impact of the $500 Million Investment on Angola’s Tourism
Looking forward, the $500 million investment will be a catalyst for transforming Angola’s tourism sector. With the right infrastructure in place, Angola can expect to see a steady increase in tourism arrivals, driven by the improved accessibility and competitiveness of the coastal regions. This investment will also set the stage for multi-destination travel across Angola’s diverse landscapes, enabling travelers to experience both beachfront destinations and cultural heritage sites.
Furthermore, the country’s improved infrastructure will ensure that Angola remains a strong contender in the competitive global tourism market. With the growing focus on sustainable tourism, Angola can establish itself as a destination that provides unique experiences while preserving its natural beauty.
A Commitment to Long-Term Tourism Growth
Through this $500 million initiative, Angola is not only solving existing infrastructure problems but is also setting the stage for future success in the tourism sector. The coastal tourism development project that has received investment dollars is set to revolutionize the tourism sector in Angola. As Angola modernizes its tourism infrastructure, it is laying the groundwork for future tourism development that will create economic opportunities and bring tourists to its shores.
This strategic tourism development project signals the beginning of a new era for Angola, where well-thought-out investments in infrastructure development and tourism planning will pave the way for global competitiveness, investments, and future tourism products in the country.
A new initiative called the USMCA Travel and Tourism Act is set to revolutionise travel across North America. The Act is designed to improve cooperation between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making travel smoother for international visitors. For global travellers, this means easier planning, reduced barriers, and more coordinated tourism promotion across three of the world’s most popular destinations. Governments are recognising that tourism is a major driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional connectivity, and the Act is a step toward integrating travel more formally into trade and economic policy.
Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group: Simplifying Journeys
At the heart of the new Act is the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group. This group will bring together experts in border management, travel infrastructure, and tourism policy from all three countries. Their aim is to identify obstacles for travellers and propose solutions for smoother cross-border travel. For holidaymakers, this could mean faster visa processing, clearer entry requirements, and more reliable travel information. The working group is also expected to coordinate marketing and promotional efforts across the continent, helping international visitors discover the full range of attractions in North America.
Economic Benefits for Tourism Destinations
Tourism supports millions of jobs across North America. Cities like Las Vegas, Miami, Toronto, Mexico City, and Cancun rely heavily on international visitors. The USMCA Travel and Tourism Act seeks to strengthen this economic sector by facilitating easier movement of travellers. By improving access and cooperation, more visitors are likely to explore multiple countries on a single trip, which benefits hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and local attractions. For international tourists, this could mean discovering new destinations on a single journey without facing lengthy delays or confusing procedures at borders.
Enhancing Travel Experiences for Visitors
One of the key goals of the Act is to make travel across North America more enjoyable and predictable. Tourists from the UK, Europe, and Asia will benefit from coordinated tourism policies, which may include simplified visa requirements, faster border checks, and reliable travel guidance. Governments are also looking to share real-time data about travel trends, safety measures, and travel advisories, ensuring that international visitors have accurate information to plan their trips. For those planning multi-country adventures, this represents a significant improvement in convenience and overall travel satisfaction.
Boosting Cultural Exchange and Tourism Resilience
The USMCA Travel and Tourism Act is not just about economic benefits; it also encourages cultural exchange. By facilitating smoother travel, visitors can experience the diverse cultural, historical, and natural attractions that North America offers. From exploring Canada’s national parks to enjoying U.S. cities’ iconic landmarks and Mexico’s vibrant coastal resorts, travellers will have more opportunities for enriching experiences. Additionally, the Act strengthens the resilience of the tourism sector, preparing it to withstand global disruptions such as health crises or natural disasters.
Practical Tips for International Travellers
Travellers planning trips to North America can take advantage of the changes anticipated under the Act. Check official government websites for the latest visa requirements, border regulations, and travel advisories. Consider multi-destination itineraries to experience the full scope of North America’s offerings. Keep an eye on travel promotions or joint campaigns between the three countries, as these may provide cost-effective and seamless ways to explore multiple destinations in one trip. Being informed and prepared ensures a smooth and memorable travel experience.
Looking Ahead: A Travel-Friendly North America
The introduction of the USMCA Travel and Tourism Act signals a new era of travel in North America. By prioritising tourism in policy discussions, governments are aiming to create a more welcoming, convenient, and resilient travel environment. International visitors can look forward to smoother border crossings, simplified travel procedures, and richer experiences across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. For global travellers, this represents an opportunity to explore North America with greater ease, confidence, and enjoyment, turning the continent into a truly connected and accessible tourism hub.
In 2026, travellers worldwide can embark on an extraordinary journey through the United States with the American Cruise Lines 250th Anniversary campaign. This unique series of river cruises offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the country’s semiquincentennial while exploring scenic waterways, historic ports, and culturally rich cities. Designed for history enthusiasts, families, and curious travellers alike, these cruises promise a mix of leisure, learning, and patriotic celebration.
The campaign covers an impressive itinerary spanning over 35 states. Guests will traverse rivers and coastlines from the chilly waters of Alaska to the sunny shores of Florida, providing an immersive view of the country’s diverse landscapes. With small ships specially designed for intimate and scenic cruising, passengers can access ports and areas often unreachable by larger vessels. This creates an ideal setting for a travel experience that combines comfort, discovery, and education.
Patriotic Onboard Experiences and Celebrations
Every ship in the campaign is adorned with the official 250th-anniversary logo, signalling the historic celebration. Passengers are greeted by a festive atmosphere, with crew members wearing commemorative badges and themed uniforms. Travellers receive special keepsakes and mementoes, allowing them to take a piece of this historic journey home.
Onboard programming is designed to educate and entertain. Guests can enjoy historical trivia sessions, interactive games, and themed events that celebrate America’s history and culture. Signature beverages and desserts inspired by the nation’s milestones further enrich the onboard experience. Each day combines learning, fun, and a sense of patriotic pride, making the voyage engaging for all ages.
Exclusive Shore Excursions and Historic Ports
The campaign offers carefully curated shore excursions at every port of call. These trips allow passengers to explore iconic historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks. Cities such as Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk, and Washington D.C. host major events to mark the 250th anniversary, offering travellers exclusive experiences.
Visitors can discover museums that showcase American history, from the nation’s founding to modern achievements. Smaller boutique museums and local heritage centres provide additional insights into regional culture and historic narratives. Each stop allows travellers to connect with America’s story in a personal and memorable way, turning each excursion into an educational adventure.
Fireworks and Major Celebratory Events
For those sailing during major U.S. holidays, the cruises include spectacular celebrations. Fourth of July sailings feature fireworks visible from the ships, creating a unique vantage point over historic harbours. A highlight of the campaign is the extended “Great United States Cruise,” where passengers can witness dramatic displays and public events that commemorate the nation’s independence and historic milestones.
These celebratory moments are paired with immersive storytelling and cultural experiences onboard, allowing passengers to witness history in a dynamic and entertaining manner. The combination of scenic cruising, festive events, and historical education ensures an unforgettable journey.
A Travel Guide for Global Tourists
For international travellers, these cruises provide a distinctive way to experience the United States beyond conventional city tours. Small ship cruising ensures quiet, scenic decks and personalised service while accessing hidden gems along America’s rivers and coastlines. Guests can witness the nation’s natural beauty, explore historic harbours, and participate in cultural events in a way that is rarely possible through standard travel options.
Travellers are advised to plan ahead, especially for dates coinciding with major celebrations. Weather conditions vary dramatically along the cruise routes, from Alaska’s cooler climates to Florida’s subtropical warmth, and careful preparation ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Why the 250th Anniversary Cruises Are Unmissable
The American Cruise Lines 250th Anniversary campaign offers more than leisure; it is an educational, cultural, and patriotic adventure. It allows travellers to sail through history, witnessing the milestones and achievements that shaped America. Every river, every port, and every city becomes part of a narrative that educates, inspires, and entertains.
Whether exploring Alaska’s scenic waterways, New England’s historic ports, or Florida’s sun-drenched coastlines, passengers are invited to celebrate America’s story in a unique and meaningful way. This campaign combines adventure, learning, and celebration, making it a must-visit itinerary for travellers seeking a deeper connection with U.S. history and culture.
Conclusion
The American Cruise Lines 250th Anniversary campaign is a landmark in travel and tourism, offering global travellers the chance to explore America through its rivers, cities, and cultural heritage. With patriotic onboard celebrations, curated shore excursions, and dramatic historic storytelling, it transforms river cruising into a journey through time. This voyage is more than a holiday; it is an immersive experience that brings America’s history to life for every traveller who steps aboard.
As 2026 spring break approaches, Cancun has emerged as one of the most searched beach destinations, joining popular cities like Miami, San Juan, Fort Lauderdale, and Pensacola. This growing interest underscores a powerful trend: travelers are increasingly drawn to warm-weather escapes after a long, cold winter. Cancun’s appeal lies in its tropical charm, stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and affordability, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Similarly, the inclusion of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and other Florida cities highlights the ongoing preference for domestic travel, where easy access, reliable sunshine, and diverse experiences create an irresistible draw for spring break seekers. Together, these cities exemplify the widespread desire for sunny, carefree vacations that offer a break from the chill and a chance to recharge in paradise.
Florida has long been the quintessential destination for spring break, and new data confirms that South Florida is taking center stage for 2026. A recent study from Spirit Airlines reveals that the region isn’t just trending—it’s the driving force behind the massive spring break travel surge this year.
The report, based on searches from Spirit Airlines’ website between January and February 2026 for trips planned between March and April, highlights the dominance of South Florida. Fort Lauderdale ranks as the top searched spring break beach destination, while Miami follows closely at No. 3. Together, these two destinations solidify South Florida’s role as the epicenter of the spring break travel boom.
As winter gives way to spring, the allure of sunny beaches is undeniable. While destinations like San Juan and Punta Cana remain popular, the search trends show that many travelers are opting for the convenience of domestic getaways, with South Florida leading the way. The region offers the perfect combination of beautiful beaches, great weather, vibrant culture, and a variety of activities, making it an easy choice for those looking to escape the cold and have a memorable spring break.
Why is Florida, and specifically South Florida, so attractive? The answer lies in its ability to offer something for everyone. Spring break is all about basking in the warmth of the sun, and after months of frigid temperatures, Florida’s warm climate is a welcome change. The region’s mix of pristine beaches, dynamic nightlife, and easy flight access makes it the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation or adventure. Budget airlines have also increased flight routes, making it more affordable than ever to travel to the Sunshine State, further driving demand.
Miami’s ranking at No. 3 reflects the city’s reputation as a spring break magnet. Miami is known for its ability to blend beach culture, nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. While South Beach is synonymous with party scenes and nightlife, Miami offers much more to visitors. For a cultural experience, travelers can explore Little Havana’s vibrant food scene, enjoy the street art in Wynwood, or simply unwind in the laid-back Coconut Grove neighborhood. These diverse offerings give Miami a rare trifecta appeal that attracts a wide range of spring break travelers.
For those planning to spend spring break in Miami, be prepared for the usual hustle and bustle. Beaches will be crowded, brunch spots will have long wait times, and rideshare services will be in high demand. Despite the crowds, Miami’s infectious energy makes it one of the most exciting spring break destinations in the country. It’s the kind of place where you can meet people from all over the country, all coming together for an unforgettable vacation.
Living in Miami during spring break has its perks. Locals can enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning weather, but they might also find themselves in a prime position to capitalize on the influx of visitors. With accommodation demand soaring, many residents are cashing in by listing their properties on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb. Whether you’re hosting friends or planning a staycation, living in one of the most desirable spring break destinations offers both bragging rights and an opportunity to make extra income.
The report also underscores the continuing trend of domestic travel. Fort Lauderdale’s No. 1 spot on the list speaks to its appeal, offering visitors beautiful beaches, chic restaurants, and a relaxed yet trendy atmosphere. Fort Myers also made the list at No. 4, providing another sunny Florida escape. However, the list isn’t all about Florida. International favorites like Cancun, Punta Cana, and Aruba make appearances, highlighting the ongoing global desire for sun-filled spring getaways.
Here’s the full list of the top 10 most-searched spring break destinations for 2026:
Fort Lauderdale
San Juan
Miami
Fort Myers
Cancun
Myrtle Beach
Punta Cana
St. Thomas
Aruba
Pensacola
Cancun joins Miami, San Juan, Fort Lauderdale, Pensacola, and more as the top searched spring break cities for 2026, reflecting the growing appeal of warm-weather getaways that offer sun, sand, and vibrant experiences after a long winter. These destinations continue to attract travelers seeking the perfect tropical escape.
The dominance of Florida in the rankings only further solidifies its place as the ultimate spring break destination. Whether you’re planning to soak up the sun in Fort Lauderdale, enjoy Miami’s electric energy, or explore other tropical spots, South Florida offers everything you need for the perfect spring break experience. With beautiful weather, an exciting atmosphere, and endless options for fun, it’s clear that South Florida will remain the ultimate place to be this season. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embrace the excitement that comes with one of the best spring breaks yet.
The Virginia Guesthouse Hotel and Conference Center is a game-changer for Virginia’s hospitality industry; it will open its doors in April 2026. Situated at the crossroads of intellectual activity, cultural interaction, and scenic beauty, the hotel has a significant contribution to Charlottesville’s expanding hospitability sector. Conceived to meld the needs of visitors and residents alike, the property stands only steps from the University of Virginia campus, offering a mix of modern guestroom accommodation and flexible event space.
As Virginia’s tourism continues to soar, Virginia Guesthouse is not just a place to rest one’s head. The hotel’s location, amenities, and design reflect the region’s growing status as a premier Mid-Atlantic tourism and business destination. Boasting 214 modern rooms, more than 25,000 square feet of events space, and multiple dining options, this hotel is poised to be the epicenter of UVA visitors, business travelers, and leisure travelers visiting Charlottesville.
Contributing to Charlottesville’s Hospitality Growth: An Ideal Base for Leisure Travelers
Virginia Guesthouse will enhance the local hospitality landscape by providing a high-quality, flexible base for travelers exploring Charlottesville and the Central Virginia region. Guests will find themselves within easy reach of local wineries, the historic Downtown Mall, and outdoor adventures, along with one of the country’s most prestigious academic institutions.
The hotel’s proximity to UVA and its historical grounds—designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site—makes it an attractive option for visitors who wish to experience the university’s vibrant atmosphere. For travelers seeking regional cuisine and a relaxing environment, Virginia Guesthouse offers Poplar, its signature restaurant serving seasonal local dishes with a carefully curated list of beverages. For those looking for a quick bite, The Counter Café offers locally sourced snacks and drinks to recharge.
The Perch, the hotel’s rooftop bar, will serve as a prime social gathering space with sweeping views of the University of Virginia campus. Its laid-back yet elevated atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to enjoy signature cocktails and unwind while overlooking Charlottesville’s stunning landscapes.
Expanding Event Space to Boost Virginia’s Hospitality Industry
A crucial aspect of Virginia Guesthouse is its role in enhancing Virginia’s hospitality growth by offering over 25,000 square feet of flexible event space. Designed to meet the needs of corporate groups, academic conferences, and social events, the hotel features an array of spaces, from large conference halls to more intimate settings.
As Charlottesville becomes an increasingly popular destination for academic conferences, corporate events, and business retreats, the addition of Virginia Guesthouse will strengthen the area’s reputation as a competitive venue for meetings and events. The hotel’s state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, catering services, and ample parking for guests make it an ideal location for both business gatherings and personal milestones like weddings.
A True Home for UVA Visitors, Alumni, and Families
For UVA families, alumni, and prospective students, the hotel offers a central location and a sense of comfort and connection. As a cornerstone of Virginia’s growing hospitality infrastructure, Virginia Guesthouse is perfectly positioned to cater to families attending UVA events, students returning home, and those looking to explore the vibrant life on the University’s Grounds.
The hotel’s proximity to UVA’s iconic Lawn, John Paul Jones Arena, and other campus landmarks ensures that it will become a go-to spot for university visitors. In addition, the Welcome Center located in the hotel will serve as a first stop for those embarking on UVA tours. By catering to future students and their families, Virginia Guesthouse will support the University’s recruitment efforts, making it a vital resource for the community.
Fostering Collaboration for UVA’s Academic and Student Community
Designed with the UVA community in mind, the hotel will offer meeting spaces that are ideal for faculty retreats, department gatherings, and student group activities. As Charlottesville experiences a rise in demand for academic events, Virginia Guesthouse will foster collaboration, learning, and growth. The hotel’s diverse meeting facilities will support everything from departmental seminars to faculty development workshops, enabling UVA’s academic community to interact in a dynamic and inspiring environment.
Integrating with the Local Community: Dining, Events, and Shared Experiences
Beyond catering to visitors, Virginia Guesthouse will strengthen Charlottesville’s local hospitality scene by becoming a gathering place for residents. Local diners can enjoy an engaging evening at The Perch, attend community weddings, or simply meet colleagues at Poplar for a meal. As Charlottesville’s hospitality industry continues to grow, the hotel will become a local hub for events and community celebrations.
The versatility of its meeting and event spaces also positions Virginia Guesthouse as a prime location for local organizations, helping to foster a sense of community while supporting Charlottesville’s tourism sector.
Strengthening the Local Economy: The Role of Virginia Guesthouse in Hospitality Growth
The opening of Virginia Guesthouse comes at a time when Charlottesville’s hospitality sector is undergoing a transformation. As the city continues to attract more tourists and business travelers, the addition of this property aligns with the area’s expanding demand for premium accommodations and event spaces.
By offering flexible and well-equipped event spaces, high-quality dining options, and top-tier accommodations, Virginia Guesthouse will contribute significantly to Charlottesville’s growing tourism infrastructure. As the local economy benefits from the influx of visitors, the hotel’s development marks a significant milestone in the city’s journey toward becoming a premier destination for both tourism and business.
Virginia Guesthouse’s Role in the Region’s Hospitality Growth
The Virginia Guesthouse Hotel & Conference Center is not just another newly constructed hotel in Charlottesville, it is a symbol of growth for the hospitality industry within the region and Charlottesville’s emergence as a top destination for tourism and business with its prime location, cutting-edge event space, and dedication to providing exceptional customer service.
Virginia Guesthouse is poised to be at the center as Charlottesville moves forward as a thriving center for culture, education, and economic development. As Charlottesville becomes a force to be reckoned with in the tourism marketplace of the Mid-Atlantic, Virginia Guesthouse represents a testament to its vibrant future and its adaptability to the changing needs of modern travelers.
When it comes to celebrating Valentine’s Day, there’s no better way to make the occasion unforgettable than by escaping to a romantic destination. Kerala, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and other enchanting regions offer the perfect settings for a memorable Valentine’s Day weekend. From Kerala’s serene beaches and spiritual retreats to Rajasthan’s regal lakeside allure and Karnataka’s misty hills, these destinations cater to every kind of romantic getaway. Whether you seek tranquility, adventure, or cultural richness, these locales offer a mix of natural beauty, intimate experiences, and unique charm to make this Valentine’s Day extra special. Let’s explore five destinations that promise the ideal backdrop for love and connection this February.
Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on a weekend, offering the perfect opportunity for couples to break free from their routines and embark on an impromptu getaway. While planning a last-minute trip can feel exciting, it does come with its share of challenges—limited accommodations, higher prices, and crowded destinations. Finding the right mix of romance, practicality, and budget is key to ensuring a quick getaway that feels just as special as a well-planned vacation.
Short weekend trips have become increasingly popular, especially for couples who juggle busy schedules and may not have the luxury of planning months ahead. A carefully selected destination can offer a perfect balance of relaxation and connection, whether it’s nestled in nature, a cultural hotspot, or along the coast. If you’re planning a last-minute Valentine’s Day weekend trip, here are five destinations to consider for an unforgettable experience.
Bhutan
For a truly unique and peaceful getaway, Bhutan, the Kingdom of Happiness, offers an extraordinary escape. This Himalayan destination is known for its majestic mountain landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a culture deeply rooted in mindfulness. Bhutan’s commitment to sustainability ensures a more authentic and less crowded experience, which is ideal for couples who value peace and connection.
Explore the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a cliff, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Stroll through the charming streets of Thimphu and Paro, where traditional Bhutanese architecture blends harmoniously with the natural beauty. The country’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes provide an intimate setting for couples to reconnect, making Bhutan a perfect place for a romantic and meaningful Valentine’s Day escape.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, with its romantic charm and majestic lakes, offers the perfect romantic setting. This city, often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” is an oasis of heritage, with palaces and tranquil lakes that provide an idyllic setting for couples. The City Palace, standing tall beside Lake Pichola, provides a perfect view of the shimmering water, especially during the sunset boat rides. The Lake Palace, which appears to float on the water, enhances the dreamlike atmosphere of the city.
Udaipur’s old city, with its winding lanes and bustling markets, invites leisurely exploration. Couples can unwind at intimate rooftop restaurants or cozy cafés, enjoying views of the city’s vibrant streets below. For a truly magical experience, consider booking a private boat ride at dusk or a candlelit dinner at one of the heritage hotels that offer both romance and history in every corner.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” is an excellent choice for couples who appreciate nature’s beauty and a bit of adventure. Known for its coffee plantations, scenic landscapes, and lush greenery, Coorg is perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway that combines relaxation and exploration. Wake up to the invigorating aroma of freshly brewed coffee, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature.
Spend your days trekking through spice gardens, discovering hidden waterfalls like Abbey Falls, or simply unwinding at a cozy homestay. The cool February weather makes it a wonderful retreat, offering respite from the heat while allowing you to connect with each other in the peaceful surroundings of the Western Ghats.
Varkala, Kerala
For couples looking for a serene beach experience with a touch of spirituality, Varkala in Kerala is a wonderful choice. The dramatic cliffs along the Arabian Sea create an enchanting backdrop for the town, where the beach’s peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views promise a perfect getaway. The sacred Papanasam Beach is an excellent place to unwind, offering a peaceful alternative to crowded beach resorts.
Varkala is known for its laid-back vibe, with cliff-top restaurants and cafes offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean. You can indulge in couples’ Ayurvedic massages, explore the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, or savor local seafood while watching the sun set over the sea. The blend of spirituality and natural beauty makes Varkala an idyllic spot for a relaxed, romantic retreat.
Colombo and Bentota, Sri Lanka
For those seeking an international escape without long travel times, Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of culture, history, and coastal beauty. Begin your trip in Colombo, the country’s vibrant capital, where colonial architecture, lively markets, and stylish cafés set the stage for a dynamic city experience.
After soaking up Colombo’s energy, head to Bentota for a more tranquil retreat. This coastal town is home to stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, perfect for couples who want to unwind and enjoy some downtime. The scenic train ride from Colombo to Bentota is one of the most beautiful in the world, with picturesque views of the ocean that make the journey itself part of the experience.
Kerala, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and more offer the perfect romantic settings for a memorable Valentine’s Day weekend, with each destination providing unique experiences that blend natural beauty, culture, and intimacy for a truly special escape.
Whether you crave a romantic lakeside retreat, a nature-filled adventure, or an international cultural experience, these five destinations provide the perfect backdrop for a spontaneous Valentine’s Day getaway. With a little thought and planning, you can create unforgettable memories while balancing romance, relaxation, and exploration.
Pittsburgh is opening the door for more cultural events to shine on the international stage with the launch of its Festivals & Cultural Events Fund (FCEF). This year, VisitPittsburgh is offering $15,000 in marketing grants to four mid-sized festivals or events scheduled to take place from spring through winter. The goal of the program is to amplify local cultural celebrations and bring more visitors to Pittsburgh by providing the marketing support necessary to promote these events on a larger scale.
Launched in 2022, the FCEF is a key component of VisitPittsburgh’s10-year Tourism Development Plan, which aims to transform mid-sized events into major attractions that will draw more tourism to the city. With a growing emphasis on making Pittsburgh a hub for cultural events, this grant offers a unique opportunity for local organizations to increase their event visibility and attract visitors from across the country and beyond.
$15,000 in Marketing Support for Cultural Festivals
The FCEF grant has been designed to provide much-needed financial assistance, focusing primarily on marketing support for eligible festivals and events. Derek Dawson, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at VisitPittsburgh, explained that the best way to help these events succeed is by leveraging existing marketing and advertising resources. “Our goal is to use our platform to give these events the visibility they need to thrive and attract even more visitors to the region,” said Dawson.
The funding will be awarded to four mid-sized events taking place between May 1 and December 31, 2026, and each recipient will receive a cash grant as well as additional marketing support through VisitPittsburgh’s partnerships. The application process opened on February 11, 2026, and organizations are encouraged to apply before the deadline on March 23, 2026.
The grants are expected to be a game-changer for many cultural events, especially those looking to enhance their reach and attract visitors beyond Pittsburgh’s local community.
FCEF: Fueling Pittsburgh’s Growth as a Global Cultural Destination
The FCEF initiative is part of VisitPittsburgh’s broader effort to position the city as a top destination for international cultural tourism. In 2024 and 2025, Pittsburgh was recognized by the International Festivals & Events Association as one of the World’s Festival & Event Cities, joining other renowned cities such as Dublin, Rotterdam, and Kailua Village. This recognition reflects Pittsburgh’s growing reputation as a vibrant cultural destination, and the FCEF is a strategic step toward further elevating the city’s status.
Since its inception, VisitPittsburgh has provided over $300,000 in grants to more than 40 local events. These events have reported increased tourism numbers and higher engagement from attendees, largely thanks to the marketing efforts supported by the fund. In 2025, organizations such as BikePGH’s PedalPGH and the Pittsburgh Irish Festival saw a significant uptick in visitors after receiving funding from the FCEF.
For example, PedalPGH, an annual charity bike ride, saw a 10% increase in participants coming from outside the Greater Pittsburgh area. Similarly, Pittsburgh Irish Festival reported that nearly 40% of its attendees were tourists, highlighting the effectiveness of the marketing strategies made possible by the grant.
How the Grant is Helping Local Organizations
The FCEF grants provide more than just financial support—they offer organizations the chance to boost their visibility through national marketing channels, including television ads, streaming platforms, and digital campaigns. Kéya Joseph, BikePGH’s Events Director, shared that the funding from VisitPittsburgh helped them purchase television and streaming ads, which led to a sold-out event. The Pittsburgh Irish Festival also leveraged the funds to ramp up its promotional efforts, leading to a surge in out-of-town visitors.
The grants help organizations like PedalPGH and Pittsburgh Irish Festival overcome challenges by offering them the resources they need to expand their reach, making them accessible to a larger audience. These events are not only great for local communities but also for the region’s economy, as they bring in tourists who spend money on accommodations, dining, transportation, and local attractions.
Criteria for Application
To qualify for the FCEF grant, events must meet several key criteria. Applicants need to be ticketed events, with a minimum attendance of 3,500 people. The event must take place in Allegheny County and be scheduled between May 1 and December 31, 2026. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate plans to increase tourist visitation and provide a clear strategy for promoting the event. The fund is aimed at one-day events or those held on concurrent dates.
With the deadline for applications set for March 23, 2026, there is still plenty of time for interested organizations to apply. The funding can be used for various marketing efforts, from social media ads to public relations campaigns, with the goal of reaching a broader audience and enhancing the event’s success.
Supporting Pittsburgh’s Cultural Evolution
Through initiatives like the FCEF, VisitPittsburgh is actively fostering a dynamic cultural scene that attracts tourists from around the world. By supporting mid-sized cultural events, the organization is helping to create a vibrant tourism economy that boosts local businesses and enhances Pittsburgh’s cultural identity.
Moreover, the growth of events like PedalPGH and the Pittsburgh Irish Festival serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between tourism boards, local businesses, and event organizers. It’s clear that marketing support from VisitPittsburgh is helping to make Pittsburgh’s cultural festivals not only successful but also an integral part of the city’s global appeal.
Conclusion
VisitPittsburgh’s $15,000 grant offers a unique opportunity for mid-sized cultural events in Pittsburgh to scale up their marketing efforts and attract more tourists. With a focus on promoting tourism development and elevating Pittsburgh’s profile as a cultural hub, this grant serves as a significant resource for local event organizers. The FCEF is helping to position Pittsburgh as an internationally recognized destination for festivals and cultural experiences, driving economic growth and cultural exchange in the process.
If you’re an event organizer looking to take your cultural festival to the next level, this is the perfect opportunity to gain marketing support and amplify your event’s success. Applications are now open, and with the deadline approaching, now is the time to act and secure a slice of the $15,000 funding available.
Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, an exclusive luxury resort by Accor in Mumbai, India, has recently appointed Hemant Chowdhary as the Director of Sales & Marketing. With more than two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Hemant brings valuable expertise and a wealth of knowledge to the resort, having previously worked with renowned global hotel brands like Hyatt, IHG, Wyndham and Starwood. His extensive background in leisure hospitality, pre-opening strategies and brand positioning is expected to contribute significantly to the continued success of the property.
A Seasoned Hospitality Leader at the Helm
Hemant Chowdhary’s appointment as Director of Sales & Marketing at Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli marks an important milestone for the resort. Hemant holds an MBA from Welingkar’s Institute of Management in Mumbai and is a graduate of the prestigious IHM Ahmedabad. Over the years, he has developed a proven track record of driving revenue and growth across various hotel assignments. His expertise spans across multiple areas of the hospitality industry, including managing pre-opening phases, devising strategic marketing plans and maximizing revenue streams.
In his new role, Hemant will be responsible for leading the resort’s commercial strategy, aiming to maximize both revenue and occupancy. He will oversee all sales, marketing and public relations activities for the property, which will require a strong, results-driven approach to meet the resort’s growth objectives. His leadership is expected to enhance Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli’s position as a premium luxury destination in the region.
Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli: A Unique Luxury Resort Experience
Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, part of the world-renowned Accor group, is an idyllic blend of relaxation and adventure. Located in the heart of Mumbai and Pune, the resort features 287 rooms that offer stunning views of the mountains, pool and Imagicaa theme park. The hotel is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including four pillarless banquet halls, a spacious lawn and the renowned Square restaurant, offering a delectable selection of global cuisine. Guests can unwind at Nitro, the in-house lounge bar, or indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the resort’s luxurious Tattva Spa.
Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli also provides ample recreational options, with the INBALANCE swimming pool and a 24/7 gym available for guests seeking an active retreat. The resort’s kids’ play zone and gaming arcade further enhance its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both family vacations and corporate events.
Conveniently located near the Imagicaa Theme Park and Water Park, the resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and fun. Its prime location near Khopoli, Lonavala, Pune, Alibaug, Navi Mumbai and Mumbai ensures that it is easily accessible for both leisure and business travelers alike.
A Promising Future for Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli
With Hemant Chowdhary at the helm of the Sales & Marketing department, Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli is well-positioned to reach new heights in the hospitality sector. His wealth of experience and leadership skills will undoubtedly help the resort enhance its brand presence and attract a diverse range of guests, including families, corporate groups and couples seeking a romantic getaway.
As a key player in Accor’s portfolio of luxury hotels, Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli’s strategic positioning will be instrumental in solidifying its standing as a premier destination in India. The resort’s emphasis on providing an exceptional guest experience, coupled with its unique offering of luxury and adventure, will continue to attract both domestic and international travelers.
Conclusion
The appointment of Hemant Chowdhary as Director of Sales & Marketing at Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli signifies a new era of growth and innovation for the resort. His extensive expertise in the hospitality industry, particularly in leisure and hotel positioning, will guide the property towards achieving its revenue and occupancy goals. Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli’s seamless blend of luxury, adventure and relaxation ensures that it remains a top choice for travelers seeking a memorable escape.
At ISE 2026 in Barcelona, Samsung showcased its latest display technology across a huge 1,728 sqm booth, welcoming over 92,000 visitors in four days. The company presented solutions for retail, offices, hotels, schools, and control rooms, which earned a record number of industry awards.
In retail, Samsung highlighted displays that work well in different lighting and store layouts. The 142-inch IBF LED display shines at 3,500 nits for bright window-facing areas, while the IEF series indoor LED display ensures sharp and clear visuals for close-up viewing.
Samsung Color E-Paper, available in 13, 20, and 32-inch sizes, uses very little power and can replace printed posters. The 85-inch Spatial Signage is a highlight, which shows products in full 360-degree rotation, and it won multiple awards, including Best of Show from Future and the Inavation Award from Inavate Magazine.
Source – Samsung
Aside from this, Samsung introduced tools for creating content easily. The VXT AI Studio app can turn static images into video content, optimized for displays like Spatial Signage, winning a Best of Show award in the Installation category. Large displays like the 130-inch QPHX and 105-inch QPDX give businesses the scale and clarity needed to impress customers.
The Wall All-in-One LED makes meeting rooms easier to set up, and The Frame for Hotel blends into rooms while offering smart hotel features, winning both TNT and Best of Show awards. LYNK Cloud allows hotel managers to control displays remotely and understand guest preferences.
For schools, the WAFX-P interactive display lets teachers quickly log in and switch between classrooms. In control rooms, The Wall MPF series provides clear visuals, and LSM2 software helps manage large LED walls efficiently.
Samsung also includes Knox Security across its displays to keep data safe. ISE 2026 showed that Samsung continues to lead in commercial displays, combining eye-catching visuals with practical, easy-to-use solutions.
Pebblebee has announced two new colors for its Clip 5 Bluetooth tracker. The new colors are in fulfillment of its plan to release two limited edition colors for the tracker every 12 weeks.
It is 2026 already, but Lenovo clearly believes there is still life left in the Intel Lunar Lake platform that originally came out in 2024. Lenovo is releasing two new 16-inch models with Lunar Lake that previously were not available with the efficient Intel CPUs: The ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 and ThinkPad T16 Gen 4.
Garmin is offering a new beta update to many of its high-end smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 Pro. Rolling out now, Beta Version 21.24 should be one of the final v21.xx updates that Garmin offers on its Beta Program before moving to a long-awaited stable build.
The smartphone market is expected to suffer greatly from the DRAM crisis in 2026. The latest report from TrendForce estimates that production could be reduced by up to 15% following the tripling of RAM costs compared to last year.
Following the somewhat disappointing debut of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Nintendo is set to release two of the best Pokémon classics for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Despite a new convenience feature, the games will be available without a subscription.
A video posted on a Chinese streaming platform shows an MSI RTX 5090 GPU catching fire on first boot. Unfortunately for the user, not being an officially sold RTX 5090D card may have rendered the GPU a complete loss.
The Xiaoxin Pro GT13 is one of the new tablets that Lenovo is working on. While there's no word on when this tablet will launch, new teasers have showcased the pad's design and revealed its display specs.
Xiaomi has lifted the lid on its long-awaited Bluetooth tracker. Already listed in Europe with pricing confirmed, the Xiaomi Tag relies upon Bluetooth and NFC to support Apple's Find My and Google's Find Hub networks.
By combining several images, the Hubble telescope has managed to obtain the clearest image to date of the Egg Nebula, located approximately 1,000 light-years away. And this could help astronomers better understand these structures.
Buyers who were procrastinating about purchasing a Valve gaming handheld are feeling regretful. The Steam Deck OLED has disappeared from the U.S. storefront, with stock levels sporadic elsewhere. Facing component shortages, the manufacturer may be considering a price increase.
Nioh 3 was released on February 6, and according to a new report, the game has already sold over 700,000 copies across Steam and PlayStation 5. This translates to over $50 million in gross revenue.
If you haven’t had your fill of leaked renders of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series, here’s another batch that showcases the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26+ from every angle.
At this point, there’s little left to leak and everything from the full specifications to the design has already surfaced ahead of the February 25 launch.
The latest renders of the Galaxy S26 Ultra give us a better look at the phone from all angles. It gets an updated rear camera module, which now resembles the unit on the Galaxy Z Fold7. Apart from that, the renders also show the new S...
Right at the end of last year, Honor introduced the “Play” series in China with an entry-level 5G phone, the Play 60A. Now a nearly identical device has appeared in a store in the United Arab Emirates as the X6d. And that’s not the end of the story.
The Honor X6d is very similar to the Play 60A – the main difference is the upgraded 50MP f/2.0 camera (the 60A only has a 13MP f/2.2 camera). It’s still the only lens on the back and it still tops out at 1080p @ 30fps video recording, but it is an upgrade. The 5MP f/2.2 selfie camera is the same.
The other spec that shows up as different is...
By remaining one of the best players in the world for more than 15 years, Cristiano Ronaldo is considered the GOAT by many fans. However, a former Real Madrid coach questioned that stance, delivering a blunt statement.
Cristiano Ronaldo has firmly established himself as one of the greatest players in soccer history. Not only did he make history with Real Madrid, but he also left a significant mark with the Portugal national team as a prolific scorer. Over more than 15 years, he has maintained his status among the world’s elite, ascending to become a central figure in the GOAT debate. However, a former Real Madrid coach has recently challenged the veteran’s legacy with harsh remarks.
“Cristiano is a great goalscorer and an incredible athlete, but he doesn’t have the genius of Messi, Maradona or Ronaldo Nazario. That genius that the others possessed is absent in Cristiano. He can’t be compared to those three,“ Fabio Capello said, via ON Sport’s ‘Hat-Trick’ program. With these statements, the Italian coach downplays the Portuguese spot as GOAT, highlighting a missing aspect on his legacy.
Throughout his professional career, Fabio Capello had two spells at Real Madrid (1996–97 and 2006–07), winning La Liga on both occasions. Despite this, the Italian has always been quite reluctant to label Cristiano Ronaldo as the GOAT. Nevertheless, the Portuguese forward is one of the greatest players in history, leaving behind an extraordinary scoring legacy that stands as a benchmark in modern soccer — something very difficult to overlook.
Even though Cristiano’s legacy is largely defined by his scoring power, he has also been a magical player. After his breakthrough at Manchester United, he established himself as a difference-maker in terms of dribbling, creativity and finishing — something he also showcased during his early years at Real Madrid. However, a chronic patellar tendinosis in his left knee in 2014 forced him to adapt his style of play, demonstrating an impressive resilience to continue shining.
Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC celebrates scoring.
Cristiano Ronaldo edges a long-lasting legacy in soccer history
Since his professional debut in 2003, Cristiano Ronaldo has managed to remain one of the best players in the world, season after season. After leaving a historic legacy at Manchester United, he completed a multimillion-dollar transfer to Real Madrid. Leading the team’s attack, the Portuguese star became one of the most decorated players in the club’s history and its all-time top scorer, but his legacy goes beyond that.
Although Portugal are one of the most historic national teams in the world, they had not managed to win any major titles. With Cristiano Ronaldo at the forefront, they won UEFA Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles. In addition, the veteran has established himself as the national team’s all-time top scorer with 143 goals, creating a significant gap between himself and legends such as Eusébio and Pauleta.
Despite being 41 years old, Cristiano has managed to remain one of the world’s top scorers, shining at Al Nassr. For that reason, he is expected to be a key figure for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, where he could break some interesting records. Whether as a historic scorer or as a Greatest of all Time, Ronaldo is already a historic figure in the history of soccer, at a level reached by very few players.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr looks on during the Saudi Pro League match.
Inter Miami are preparing for their final preseason match, with questions over Lionel Messi’s availability.
Inter Miami are approaching the start of the 2026 Major League Soccer season, where they will look to defend the title they won last year. Before that, they face one last challenge: a friendly on Friday against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico. Ahead of that matchup, it is unclear whether Lionel Messi will be available.
“Lionel Messi was absent from the first 15 minutes open to the media,” reporter Jose Armando wrote on X on Wednesday during the Herons’ training in Fort Lauderdale. “Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul trained without issue.”
The absence of the Argentine forward in exercises under coach Javier Mascherano is notable, as Messi typically trains alongside his teammates unless physical issues prevent him from doing so. This raises questions about his availability in the near future.
“Inter Miami travel to Puerto Rico this Thursday. They will have an evening training session on the island before Friday’s match,” Jose Armando added regarding preparations for the friendly against Independiente del Valle. “We are waiting for updates on Lionel Messi and his availability.”
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano.
Messi is not the only player missing for Inter Miami
While all eyes are on Lionel Messi, other key players could also miss Friday’s friendly against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico. “Telasco Segovia is also absent this morning due to a visa issue,” Jose Armando reported Wednesday morning. He immediately added details on two other stars: “Berterame has not yet received his visa, and along with Maxi Falcon (awaiting his green card), they would be unavailable for the match in Puerto Rico.”
If these absences are confirmed, it would pose a significant challenge for coach Javier Mascherano. In addition to Messi, Berterame, Segovia, and Falcon were starters in the last friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador. Berterame, who joined this year from Monterrey, even scored one of the goals.
The good news for the Herons is the return of Tadeo Allende
Amid these concerns, the Herons have a reason to celebrate. After several weeks of waiting, Tadeo Allende has finally resolved administrative issues that had prevented him from joining training and is now available to coach Javier Mascherano for the start of the 2026 season.
“I was anxious and wanted to start as soon as possible. The delay had me worried at home. I’m very happy to be here and start again with my teammates,” Allende said in an interview shared by Inter Miami on social media. “The goals are the same as last season: compete for everything in front of us. We have a great group.”
Christian Pulisic could soon be part of a historic chapter in Milan’s storied legacy, as the club prepares for a crucial Serie A clash that could see Massimiliano Allegri’s side match a decades-old milestone.
Christian Pulisic could soon be part of a historic chapter in Milan’s storied legacy, as the club prepares for a crucial Serie A clash that could see Massimiliano Allegri’s side match a decades-old milestone. With the American winger racing to recover from injury, the timing could not be more dramatic: a return to action might coincide with one of the most symbolic achievements in the club’s modern history.
Milan travels to face Pisa in a fixture loaded with significance. On the surface, it is another league match against a struggling opponent. Beneath that, however, lies a rare opportunity to write history, fuel a revenge narrative against past slip-ups, and restore key attacking pieces ahead of a decisive stretch of the season.
The Rossoneri’s current campaign has been defined by resilience and consistency under Allegri. The club has gone unbeaten in 22 consecutive Serie A matches this season (14 wins, 8 draws). In fact, this run has placed the team on the cusp of a landmark achievement. One more match without defeat would see Milan equal a legendary club record that has stood for 33 years. Two more would see the current side surpass it entirely, creating a new benchmark in the club’s domestic history.
The magnitude of the moment is amplified by the fact that the club has not enjoyed such an extended unbeaten stretch in a single league campaign since the early 1990s. Fans and analysts alike are beginning to sense that something historic could unfold in Tuscany.
Milan lost their season opener to Cremonese and since then have went 22 league games unbeaten 😳💪 pic.twitter.com/FmcBUVL9Jz
The record revealed: One of Capello’s legendary benchmarks
Midway through this historic chase, the mystery becomes clear. Milan is closing in on equaling the 23-game unbeaten run recorded during Fabio Capello’s iconic 1992-93 season. That legendary side defined dominance in Italy and Europe, and Allegri’s current squad is now one step away from matching that feat.
Capello’s era was built on defensive solidity, tactical discipline, and a relentless winning mentality. Replicating even part of that legacy carries symbolic weight, especially in a season where Milan is pushing to return to the Champions League and reassert itself domestically. Allegri’s side stands at 22 games unbeaten, while one of Capello’s records from that season stands at 23. Thus, two more unbeaten matches would rewrite the club’s modern history books.
AC Milan’s unbeaten record under Fabio Capello and Massimiliano Allegri
Pulisic and Milan on revenge mission against bottom-half opponents
Milan’s season has not been perfect. Early setbacks against lower-table sides—including a defeat to Cremonese and draws against Pisa, Parma, and Sassuolo—prevented an even more dominant campaign. Those results have lingered as reminders of missed opportunities.
Now, the upcoming run of fixtures offers a chance to redeem. Alberto Gilardino’s side is the first opponent in what could be a symbolic revenge tour, followed by clashes against Como, Parma, and Cremonese. Consecutive victories would not only extend the unbeaten run but also erase the stigma of those earlier stumbles.
Christian Pulisic’s presence looms large over this historic pursuit. The American winger has been sidelined with bursitis, an inflammation that has limited his recent involvement, but optimism is growing about his return.
Christian Pulisic (left) and Massimiliano Allegri (right)
Even though they were in top form to face Lionel Messi's Argentina, Spain suffer an unexpected setback. After being ruled out of the Finalissima, a key player of the national team receives a pessimistic update on his recovery, raising doubts about his presence in the 2026 World Cup.
Despite losing the UEFA Nations League to Portugal, Spain have managed to remain one of the most imposing national teams in the world. Relying on a powerful attack and crucial control in midfield, they arrive in top form to face Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the Finalissima. However, they have suffered an unexpected setback, as they have received bad news regarding the recovery of a key player for the national team.
After suffering a fracture in his right foot against Manchester United, Mikel Merino underwent surgery on Monday, February 9, and will be sidelined for around four months. As a result, he is completely ruled out of the Finalissima vs. Argentina, with just over a month remaining before the match. However, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta provided a concerning update on his recovery that raises significant doubt.
“The doctors are really happy with the way it went. Now, he starts a long process. You’re talking about bone healing, so you need to be patient and respect the timing. I am sure he is gonna do everything he possibly can to speed up that recovery. The time frames we are talking about are months. Whether it is three, four, or five months… we don’t know,” Arteta revealed in the latest press conference.
Taking Mikel Arteta’s comments into account, Spain would have very slim chances of getting Merino back in time for the 2026 World Cup, as his return could come in early August 2026. While his presence in the Finalissima vs. Lionel Messi’s Argentina was already ruled out, they had hoped to have their top scorer from the UEFA European World Cup qualifiers available for the anticipated tournament. In light of this situation, Fermin López could earn a starting role.
Mikel Merino of Spain celebrates after scoring.
Spain aim to bring back key stars for Finalissima vs. Argentina
Spain have managed to remain one of the national teams in the best form in the world, even qualifying as group winners in the UEFA European World Cup qualifiers. Despite this, Mikel Merino’s absence ahead of the Finalissima vs. Argentina raises considerable concern among fans, as he is key to the team’s style of play. Nevertheless, coach Luis de la Fuente expects to recover four players who missed the most recent matches.
Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Dean Huijsen will all return in full shape for Spain to face Argentina on March 27. Although they are coming back from injuries, they will regain competitive rhythm with their respective clubs, making their presence in the Finalissima decisive. In addition, Rodrigo Hernández is also gradually recovering his best physical form, meaning Merino’s absence may not be felt as strongly.
Mikel Merino of Spain looks dejected and Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates.
Indian defense sector and government-aligned organizations have been targeted by multiple campaigns that are designed to compromise Windows and Linux environments with remote access trojans capable of stealing sensitive data and ensuring continued access to infected machines.
The campaigns are characterized by the use of malware families like Geta RAT, Ares RAT, and DeskRAT, which are often
I love shooting with the best-selling Sony A7 V – and if you've just bought one, then these are the 9 Sony and third-party lenses I’d recommend to go with it
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I wanted to love Emerald Fennell’s "Wuthering Heights" just to spite everybody who hates it – but even a hunky Jacob Elordi can’t convince me that it’s good.
Surfshark has helped 100 media outlets and civil society groups in nine high-risk countries to access a free and secure internet. Here's why it matters.
Russia begins disrupting access to Telegram, but users are fighting back. Find out why VPN demand is spiking and what it means for the future of Russian internet censorship.
The crypto market dipped today, February 11, as traders reacted to the latest U.S. non-farm payrolls data and the upcoming U.S. consumer inflation report.
Renato Nhaga transferini bitirdiği iddia edilen Cenk Ergün'den beklenen açıklama geldi... iddiaları reddetti. Ancak Ergün'ün, Başkan Dursun Özbek tarafından bizzat görevlendirildiği iddiası da yeni yeni konuşulmaya başlandı.
Galatasaray camiası Fotospor'un gündeme getirdiği eski sportif direktör Cenk Ergün hakkındaki iddialarla çalkalanıyor. Özellikle son günlerin tartışmalı ismi Renato Nhaga transferi ve Ergün’ün kulüpteki geleceğine dair kulislerde konuşulanlar oldukça dikkat çekici.
Ergün, genç oyuncu Renato Nhaga transferiyle ilgili sessizliğini bozdu. Kulüp üyeleriyle yaptığı görüşmelerde sert ifadeler kullanan Ergün, isminin bu transferle anılmasına tepki gösterdi.
- Ben bu transferin hiçbir noktasında yokum. Ne oyuncuyu Galatasaray'a teklif ettim, ne de herhangi bir rakam pazarlığına girdim. Süreçle hiçbir bağım bulunmuyor.
Cenk Ergün cephesinde sadece transfer açıklamaları değil, hareketli bir trafik de söz konusu. Görevinden ayrılmış olmasına rağmen, birçok kulüp üyesi Ergün’ün son dönemde sık sık stadyuma ziyaretlerde bulunduğunu ifade ediyor.
Stadyumdaki bu hareketlilik, camia içinde "Geri mi dönüyor?" sorularını beraberinde getirdi. Bazı kongre üyeleri, Cenk Ergün’ün bizzat Başkan Dursun Özbek ile bir araya geldiğini ve kulüpteki son durumu değerlendirdiklerini dile getiriyor. Henüz resmi bir açıklama gelmese de, Ergün’ün kulüple bağlarını tamamen koparmadığı ve arka planda temaslarını sürdürdüğü konuşuluyor.
Beşiktaş Başkanı Serdal Adalı ve Sergen Yalçın arasındaki iletişim kopukluğu camianın tepkisini çekmeye devam ediyor... özellikle Devis Vazquez transferiyle ilgili Yalçın'ın sözleri işleri daha da karıştıracak cinsten.
257 gündür resmi bir maçta forma giymeyen Devis Vazquez'in transferi teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın’ın açıklamalarıyla yeni bir boyut kazandı. Siyah-beyazlı camiada "transferde kimin sözü geçiyor?" sorusu yeniden gündeme geldi. Yalçın’ın yönetimi hedef alan tavrı ve Jorgensen transferindeki sessizliği dikkat çekiyor.
Yalçın'ın, "Ben de bir gün önce gördüm. Tanımıyorum" ifadelerini kullanması, transferin kendi onayı dışında gerçekleştiğini kamuoyuna ilan etmek olarak yorumlandı.
Vasquez transferinde "bilgim yok" diyen Sergen Yalçın’ın, yaklaşık iki aydır Serkan Reçber ile birlikte peşinden koştuğu Chelsea’nin yedek kalecisi Jorgensen konusunda ise sessiz kalması dikkatlerden kaçmadı.
Süreç boyunca Jorgensen isminin parlatılması ve Ersin Destanoğlu’na adeta "ikinci kaleci" muamelesi yapılması, genç kaleciyi tribünlerin hedefi haline getirdi. Jorgensen beklentisi Ersin üzerindeki baskıyı artırdı. Formsuzluk ve transfer söylentileriyle taraftarın ıslıkladığı Ersin’e sahip çıkan Yalçın’ın, "Ersin neden ıslıklandı?" diyerek şaşırması ise tutarsızlık olarak değerlendiriliyor.
Panama Büyükelçisi Karina Arias Fonseca, Beşiktaş antrenmanını ziyaret etti.
Panama Büyükelçisi Karina Arias Fonseca, Beşiktaş'ın yeni transfer Murillo dolayısıyla, siyah beyazlıların antrenmanını ziyarette bulundu.
Konuya ilişkin yapılan basın açıklaması şu şekilde oldu:
Futbol A Takımımız, BJK Nevzat Demir Tesisleri’nde, Panama Büyükelçisi Karina Arias Fonseca’yı ağırladı. Ziyarette, Panama Ekonomi ve Ticaret Müsteşarı Mario A. Julio da yer aldı.
Teknik Direktörümüz Sergen Yalçın ile Panamalı futbolcumuz Amir Murillo, Büyükelçi Fonseca ile bir süre sohbet etti.
Futbolcumuz Murillo’nun imzalı formasını hediye ettiği Panama Büyükelçisi Karina Arias Fonseca de Gianotti, daha sonra siyah-beyazlılarımızın çalışmasını izledi.
At least nine engineers, including two co-founders, have announced their exits from xAI in the past week, fueling online speculation and raising questions about stability at Musk’s AI company amid mounting controversy.
Google's VP of Ads & Commerce published her annual letter previewing agentic commerce updates, AI Mode ad expansion, and creator-brand matching tools for 2026.
Juventus are close to triggering the obligation to buy clause in the contract of forward Lois Openda, but reports on Wednesday claim that the Bianconeri are already considering plans for the Belgian’s exit in the summer.
Terms of the Juventus-Openda obligation to buy revealed
Openda joined Juventus towards the end of the summer transfer window, joining on loan for a fee of €3.3m plus up to €800,000 in bonuses in a deal that also includes an obligation to buy if certain ‘sporting conditions’ are met.
According to reports from Calciomercato.com, Juventus will be obliged to make Openda’s move permanent in the event that they finish the Serie A season in 10th place or above.
Lois Openda arrives for his Juventus medical.
Though there are still 14 games of the 2025-26 campaign left to play, the feeling is that Juventus, currently in fourth on 46 points, are not at any immediate risk of finishing in 11th or lower. They already have a 17-point buffer between themselves and the bottom half of the Serie A table.
In the event that Juventus do finish in 10th or above, they will be obliged to pay a fee of €40.6m plus bonuses of up to €1.7m to sign Openda on a permanent basis.
However, according to reports from Calciomercato, Juventus will look to sell Openda during the next summer transfer window. The Belgian is on two goals from 31 appearances across all competitions this campaign, and there are concerns that his profile does not fit Luciano Spalletti’s current set-up.
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Lois Openda enters the pitch the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
He is not considered an out-and-out centre-forward, and doesn’t quite fit into one of the supporting roles in attack typically occupied by Kenan Yildiz, Fabio Miretti, Weston McKennie or Francisco Conceicao.
As per Calciomercato, Juventus might have looked into the possibility of moving Openda on during the January transfer window, but this was impossible given that he had already played for two different clubs in Juventus and RB Leipzig in 2025-26, and would have therefore been ineligible to play for another team this season.
Selling Openda this summer while avoiding a capital loss remains a difficult task, however.
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Lois Openda of Juventus FC in action during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
If the Old Lady were to sell Openda this summer and avoid a capital loss, they would need to find a buyer willing to match the €40.6m obligation to buy fee. Moving forwards, a fee in the region of €30m would be required to avoid a capital loss in the summer of 2027, and €20m in the summer of 2028.
As per Calciomercato, it is unlikely that another team steps forwards with a €40m offer this coming summer. A slightly more feasible scenario is that Openda puts in a slightly more convincing season in 2026-27, leading to a €30m move away from the club in the summer of 2027.
Manchester United have been linked with a move for the Italian manager, Roberto De Zerbi.
The former Brighton manager is expected to return to the Premier League, and Manchester United is reportedly the most likely destination, according to Fichajes.
They are looking to bring in a quality manager at the end of the season, and the Italian could be an excellent option for them. He has shown his quality in the Premier League and in France. There is no doubt that he would be able to help the team improve further.
Michael Carrick joined the club as the internet manager, and he has done quite well since his arrival. However, Manchester United are looking for a permanent solution, and the Italian could be ideal. De Zerbi has been hailed as “one of the best managers in the world” by Arne Slot.
According to a report from Fichajes, the return to the Premier League could help the Italian manager prove his worth, and it would also help him redeem himself after a mediocre spell with Marseille.
His high-intensity attacking system could be a good fit for Manchester United, and they will hope to fight for major trophies under him. Manchester United have spent substantial sums in recent years, but they have not been able to compete for trophies. They will hope that a new manager can come in and help them compete with elite clubs once again.
Meanwhile, the opportunity to manage the English club will be quite exciting for the Italian as well. It would be a huge step up in his career. Manchester United are one of the best clubs in the world, and the opportunity to manage them will be hard to turn down. It remains to be seen whether he can help them bounce back strongly and compete for major trophies.
Everton manager David Moyes cut a rather dejected figure after his team suffered defeat at home against Bournemouth. After Iliman Ndiaye struck from the spot in the 42nd minute, the Cherries had already turned the game around (Rayan 61′, Amine Adli 64′) when Toffees defender Jake O’Brien received a straight red card. ”No opinions on […]
At the start of 2026, Ubisoft didn't just announce layoffs at one of its studios (which is how it started 2025). It announced a "major reset," which included layoffs at multiple studios, the shuttering of Ubisoft Halifax, the cancellation of the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time Remake, and significant changes to its operating structure, alongside some unpopular new policies like a return-to-office mandate. The response to these changes has not exactly been positive, both internally within Ubisoft and externally across the industry. On the stock market, the announcement of the restructure saw the company's stock price drop 34%, which […]
Arkheron, the interesting and ambitious blend between Diablo, PUBG, and Dark Souls from Bonfire Studios, which we first got a look at last September. It will have its first public playtest via the launch of a brand new demo arriving on February 20, 2026, just ahead of the first Steam Next Fest of 2026, which will officially kick off three days later on February 23. The news of the new demo also came along with a new trailer, where Bonfire Studios takes players through some of its plans for Arkheron as the team gets closer to launch, and some of […]
On paper, the Galaxy S26 Ultra specifications can be termed as boring, but instead of following what other companies are doing, such as incorporating high refresh rate displays and going for record-high brightness levels, Samsung is adding something that will actually be of use to the average buyer. According to one tipster, the privacy display called ‘Flex Magic Pixel’ is expected to arrive with the Korean giant’s top-end flagship, and it could end up becoming the device’s signature feature. Developers taking advantage of the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s privacy display can take the technology’s usefulness to another level, if implemented properly On […]
Rapidus, one of Japan's biggest native chipmakers, now plans to take its 2nm production ambitions to new heights, aiming to reach a respectable production capacity by 2028. Rapidus Plans to Achieve 60,000 WPM By 2028 For Its 2nm Process, Making It Japan's Most Ambitious Chip Fab The semiconductor industry is heating up, not just in terms of the competition it faces, but also in the demand foundries like TSMC are seeing amid the AI frenzy. While most chip orders are currently focused on the Taiwan chip giant, it appears that multiple competitors are seeking an 'opening window', among them Rapidus. […]
MercurySteam, the developer behind the critically acclaimed 2D action game, Metroid Dread, followed up its beloved Nintendo-exclusive outing with something completely different last year. Blades of Fire was a new 3D action-adventure game that saw you take the role of Aran de Lira, the last blacksmith capable of wielding and forging true steel, who is tasked with killing the Queen to save humanity. When it launched in May 2025, Wccftech's Francesco De Meo reviewed it, and despite it lacking in originality with its fantasy setting and narrative, he praised the weapon variety and forging mechanics, giving it an 8.5/10. A […]
In less than a year since its release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has become almost legendary. Breaking all records for Game of the Year awards, the role-playing game developed by Sandfall Interactive has enjoyed immense popularity thanks to its classic JRPG gameplay and incredible art direction. Funnily enough, that art direction is so convincing that it recently triggered a national antiquities investigation in the Middle East. "This can't be for real, my Expedition Journal that comes with the Monolith Set got detained by customs for being 'possibly ancient", reported Reddit user Ahmed15252 on the Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 subreddit. "Customs […]
The PC cooler industry remains vibrant with several options for users to select from. There are several well-known and go-to brands for cooling enthusiasts, but every once in a while, we get an opportunity to review products from companies that are unheard of. ASRock is the latest entrant in this market who have been steadily expanding its PC hardware and component reach into various segments. At CES, we got to see their full-fledged lineup, ranging from entry-level to mainstream and high-end designs. Today, we are going to test one of their higher-end gaming AIO coolers, the Phantom Gaming 360 LCD, […]
Find the best RAM bundle deals for your next PC build. We track top combos with motherboards, CPUs, coolers, and more — updated regularly as prices and stock change fast.
The compute tile of Intel's Nova Lake CPU will be slightly smaller than compute tile of Arrow Lake CPU, but will likely be more expensive to make at TSMC.
The incendiary woes of the 16-pin power connector keep birthing new ways to prevent the inevitable. MSI's latest attempt is to sync its power supplies' active monitoring system with MSI Afterburner to deploy emergency power profiles on the go. If the PSU detects a faulty connection, it instantly triggers a 25% reduction in GPU power limit in the new Afterburner update with a pop-up warning.
An experimental study conducted in China found that a 5-week emotion-targeted mindfulness training improved participants’ working memory accuracy for faces displaying emotions, with the exception of faces displaying fear. The improvements continued to be present one month after the training was completed. The research was published in npj Science of Learning.
Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally paying attention to the present moment with openness and without judgment. It involves noticing thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and external experiences as they arise. Mindfulness has roots in Buddhist meditation traditions but is widely used today in secular psychological and health contexts. It is commonly cultivated through practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindful movement.
Research shows that mindfulness can reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. It can also improve emotional regulation and increase awareness of habitual reactions. Mindfulness helps people relate differently to difficult thoughts and feelings rather than trying to suppress or avoid them. In everyday life, it can be practiced during routine activities such as eating, walking, or listening.
Study author Hui Kou and her colleagues wanted to explore the impact of mindfulness training on working memory for faces and the cognitive mechanisms underlying this effect. They conducted an experiment.
Study participants were 120 undergraduate students from a medical university in China. Ninety of them were women. Participants’ average age was 20 years. All participants were right-handed and had normal or corrected-to-normal vision.
Study authors randomly divided participants into a training and a control group. The training group underwent 5 weeks of mindfulness training based on mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive therapy. They had 2 hours of training per week.
The goal of the training was to enhance emotion perception and emotion regulation, so the contents of each weekly training focused on the topic of emotions. The control group had two lectures on mindfulness designed to concentrate on general principles of mindfulness. Each lecture lasted 60 minutes and did not include experiential practices.
Before and after the training and 1 month after the training was finished, participants completed assessments of mindfulness (the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire), and a cognitive test assessing their visual working memory for faces displaying emotions. In the cognitive test, participants first viewed two faces for one second. This was followed by a two-second blank screen (delay period), after which another face appeared.
Participants’ task was to indicate whether that final face was among the two initially shown. There were 48 such trials in one block. There were 5 blocks in total. All faces in one block displayed the same emotion and the emotion displayed was different in each block. The emotions the faces displayed were happy, sad, angry, fearful, and neutral.
The results showed that the mindfulness training resulted in improved working memory accuracy for facial stimuli across all examined emotional expressions except fear. One month after the training was finished, these improvements were still present. Participants from the training group performed better than those in the control group both immediately after the training and one month later.
Statistical analyses indicated that, after the training, participants processed information on faces they viewed more efficiently when making memory decisions regardless of the emotion the face displayed. The stronger this increase in processing efficiency was, the more accurate participants’ memory performance became.
“These findings demonstrate that mindfulness training induces lasting improvements in both accuracy and processing efficiency of visual working memory, independent of facial emotions, clarifying its cognitive mechanisms,” the study authors concluded.
The study contributes to the scientific knowledge on the effects of mindfulness training. However, it should be noted that the study used just a single working memory task, with a single type of stimuli. It remains unknown how much the findings would generalize to different working memory tasks and to stimuli that are not faces displaying emotions.
New research published in the journal Developmental Science provides evidence that the amount of time toddlers spend watching videos is associated with the specific types of words they learn, distinct from the total number of words they know. The findings indicate that higher levels of digital media consumption are linked to a vocabulary containing a smaller proportion of body part words and a larger proportion of words related to people and furniture.
The widespread integration of digital media into family life has prompted questions about its influence on early child development. Current estimates suggest that many children under the age of two spend roughly two hours per day interacting with screens, primarily watching videos or television.
Previous research has often focused on the relationship between screen time and the overall size of a child’s vocabulary. These earlier studies generally established that high exposure to low-quality programming correlates with a lower total number of words spoken by the child.
However, language acquisition is a multifaceted process. Children do not learn all words in the same manner. The acquisition of certain types of words relies heavily on specific environmental inputs.
“There is no doubt that use of digital media by young children has been on the rise in the past few years, and growing evidence suggest that this has impacts on their language learning, especially during the first few years of life,” said study author Sarah C. Kucker, an assistant professor of psychology at Southern Methodist University.
“For instance, we know that children who watch high rates of low-quality television/videos tend to have smaller vocabularies and less advanced language skills (this is work by my own lab, but also many others such as Brushe et al., 2025; Madigan et al., 2024). However, we also know that some forms of media do not have negative effects and can, in fact, be useful for language when the media is high-quality, socially-interactive, and educational in nature (work by Sundqvist as well Jing et al., 2024).”
“On top of this, we know that children’s language development and specifically their vocabulary learning is not an all-or-nothing, but rather that children learn different types of words at different times and in different ways – e.g. learning words for body parts is easier when you can touch the body part when named, and names for people (mama, dada) are learned earlier than most other nouns,” Kucker continued.
“When we put this together it means that we shouldn’t be looking at digital media’s influence on language as just an all-or-nothing, or blanket good-or-bad, but rather take a more nuanced look. So we did just that by looking at the types of words children are learning and the association with the time they spend with digital media.”
For their study, the researchers recruited 388 caregivers of children aged 17 to 30 months. This age range represents a period of rapid language expansion often referred to as the vocabulary spurt. Participants were recruited through online research platforms and in-person visits to a university laboratory. The researchers combined these groups into a single dataset for analysis.
Caregivers completed a comprehensive survey known as the Media Assessment Questionnaire. This instrument asked parents to report the number of minutes their child spent using various forms of technology, such as television, tablets, and video chat.
The researchers collected data for both typical weekdays and weekends. They used these reports to calculate a weighted daily average of screen time for each child. The data revealed that video and television viewing was the most common media activity. On average, the children in the sample watched videos for approximately 110 minutes per day.
To measure language development, caregivers completed the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory. This is a standardized checklist containing hundreds of words commonly learned by young children. Parents marked the words their child could say.
This tool allowed the researchers to calculate the total size of each child’s noun vocabulary. It also enabled them to break down the vocabulary into specific semantic categories. These categories included animals, vehicles, toys, food and drink, clothing, body parts, small household items, furniture and rooms, outside things, places to go, and people.
The researchers also analyzed the vocabulary data through a different lens. They classified nouns based on the features that define their categories. Specifically, they looked at shape-based nouns and material-based nouns.
Shape-based nouns usually refer to solid objects defined by their physical form, such as “ball” or “cup.” Material-based nouns often refer to nonsolid substances or items defined by what they are made of, such as “applesauce” or “chalk.” This distinction is significant in developmental psychology because physical handling of objects is thought to help children learn these concepts.
The researchers found that children with higher rates of video viewing produced a smaller proportion of body part words. In a typical toddler’s vocabulary, words like “nose,” “feet,” or “ears” are often among the first learned. However, as screen time increased, the density of these words in the child’s repertoire decreased relative to other word types.
In contrast, the researchers found a positive association between video time and words related to people. This category includes proper names, titles like “teacher” or “grandma,” and general terms like “baby.” Children who watched more videos tended to have a vocabulary composition that was more heavily weighted toward these social labels.
A similar positive association was found for the category of furniture and rooms. Heavy media users were more likely to produce words such as “couch,” “TV,” or “kitchen” relative to their peers with lower media use.
“While we expected that children with high media use would have fewer body part words in their vocabulary, we were surprised to find that children with high media knew relatively more people words and furniture words,” Kucker told PsyPost. “We suspect this may have to do with the content of the media highlighting those terms, or perhaps the physical context in which children are using media (e.g. while sitting on a couch or when working with mom), but the tools to capture this information are currently limited.”
The researchers found no significant relationship between video watching and the other semantic categories measured, such as animals, toys, or food. Additionally, the researchers found no evidence that video exposure altered the balance between shape-based and material-based nouns. The proportion of words related to solid objects versus nonsolid substances remained stable regardless of screen time habits.
The research highlights that the impact of digital media is not uniformly negative or positive. The findings suggest that screen time changes the landscape of early learning in specific ways.
“Most caregivers have heard the advice to avoid screen time with their young children,” Kucker said. “However, the reality is that that is very difficult to do 100% of the time in today’s tech-based world. What this study shows is that a high amount of low-quality videos/TV is associated with lower overall vocabulary sizes in 2-year-old children, but that that videos/TV may not impact all types of words equally.”
“For instance, children with more video/TV time have fewer names for body parts, but seem to learn most other nouns at relatively equal levels, potentially because some videos/TV do a good job teaching children some basics.”
“So do try to limit children’s screen time, but don’t fret about avoiding it completely,” Kucker explained. “Instead, consider the content and context for when the media is being used and why – high-quality, educational use, or those that are social (e.g. FaceTime, Zoom), may not be detrimental as long as children are still getting rich interactive play outside of the screen.”
As with all research, there are some limitations to consider. The data relied on caregiver reports, which can introduce memory errors or bias.
The study was also cross-sectional, meaning it captured a snapshot of the children’s lives rather than following them over time. It is not possible to determine causality from this data alone. For example, it is unknown if watching videos causes the change in vocabulary or if families with different communication styles rely more on media.
“We are currently looking at more longitudinal impacts of digital media on children’s language over time as well as individual differences across children, such as considering personality and temperament,” Kucker noted.
Additionally, the study focused primarily on the duration of screen time. It did not fully capture the specific content of the videos the children watched or the nature of the interactions parents had with their children during viewing. The researchers noted that educational content and co-viewing with a parent can mitigate potential negative effects.
“Not all media is bad!” Kucker said. “Media’s effect on children is nuanced and interacts with the rest of their experiences. I always like to tell parents that if your child watches an educational show for a few minutes so you can have a few minutes of quiet, that may be helping you to then be a better parent later which will more than offset that few minutes of media time.”
“Children who get rich, social experiences are often still developing in very strong ways even if they have a bit of high-quality screen time here and there. Just considering the content and context of the media is key!”
“We have a lot of work left still to do and understand in this area, and much of the support for this work has come from various grants and foundations, such as NIH and NSF,” Kucker added. “Without those funding avenues, this work couldn’t be done.”
Google announced an early preview of WebMCP, which is a protocol for how AI agents interact with websites. “WebMCP aims to provide a standard way for exposing structured tools, ensuring AI agents can perform actions on your side with increased speed, reliability, and precision,” wrote André Cipriani Bandarra from Google.
WebMCP enables developers to communicate with LLMs via your website about the actions certain buttons or links take. WebMCP allows websites to explicitly publish a “Tool Contract.” It uses a new browser API (navigator.modelContext). Instead of the AI guessing, the website provides a structured list of tools (e.g., function buyTicket(destination, date)). The AI can then “call” these functions directly.
Structured interactions for the agentic web. WebMCP proposes two new APIs that allow browser agents to take action on behalf of the user:
Declarative API: Perform standard actions that can be defined directly in HTML forms.
Imperative API: Perform complex, more dynamic interactions that require JavaScript execution.
These APIs serve as a bridge, making your website “agent-ready” and enabling more reliable and performant agent workflows compared to raw DOM actuation.
Use cases. Here are the use cases Google posted for an AI agent that can handle complex tasks for your users with confidence and speed.
Travel: Users could more easily get the exact flights they want, by allowing the agent to search, filter results, and handle bookings using structured data to ensure accurate results every time.
Customer support: Help users create detailed customer support tickets, by enabling agents to fill in all of the necessary technical details automatically.
Ecommerce: Users can better shop your products when agents can easily find what they’re looking for, configure particular shopping options, and navigate checkout flows with precision.
How to access the preview. You can apply for the preview to WebMCP over here.
In her third annual letter, Vidhya Srinivasan, VP/GM of Ads & Commerce at Google, lays out how AI is transforming shopping and advertising in 2026 — making experiences faster, more personal, and more seamless for both consumers and businesses.
Key trends:
Creators to commerce: YouTube continues to be a discovery hub, with creators acting as trusted tastemakers. AI is helping match brands to the right creators, turning influence into measurable business impact.
Search ads evolve: With conversational and visual queries on the rise, AI Mode is reimagining ads as part of the discovery journey. New formats, like sponsored retail listings and Direct Offers, aim to help users find products and services while giving brands meaningful ways to convert interest into sales.
Agentic commerce arrives: Google is standardizing AI-driven shopping with the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), letting consumers browse, pay, and complete purchases seamlessly in AI Mode. Early rollouts include Etsy and Wayfair, with Shopify, Target, and Walmart coming soon.
AI-powered creative and performance: Gemini 3 powers ad tools that automate creative production and campaign optimization. Generative tools like Nano Banana and Veo 3 let advertisers create studio-quality assets in minutes, while AI Max expands reach and drives performance.
Trust as a foundation: All these experiences are designed with privacy and security in mind. Data handling, agent actions, and ad personalization are grounded in Google’s 25-year standards for consumer trust.
Why we care. We are witnessing a shift in where and how buying decisions may happen — increasingly inside AI-driven search, creator content, and agent-powered checkout flows that could reshape traffic and conversion paths. These changes may offer new opportunities to reach high-intent shoppers, but they also suggest growing platform control over discovery, measurement, and transactions, which could affect competition, costs, and brand visibility.
For marketers, adapting to AI-mediated commerce is becoming more and more necessary to stay competitive.
The big picture: 2026 marks an expansionary moment for digital commerce and advertising — one where speed, personalization, and AI-driven insights remove friction, turning discovery into confident purchase decisions while keeping trust at the center.
As consumers lean into AI search, the industry has focused on the technical “how” – tracking everything from Agentic Commerce Protocols (ACP) to ChatGPT’s latest shopping research tools. In doing so, it often misses the larger shift: conversational search, which is changing how visibility is earned.
There’s a common argument that big brands will always win in AI. I disagree. When you move beyond the “best running shoes” shorthand and look at the deep context users now provide, the playing field levels. AI is trying to match user needs to specific solutions, and it’s up to your brand to provide the details.
This article explains how conversational search changes product discovery and what ecommerce teams need to update on product detail pages (PDPs) to remain visible in AI-driven shopping experiences.
How conversational search builds on semantic search
While semantic search is critical for understanding the meaning and context of words, conversational search is the ability to maintain a back-and-forth dialogue with a user over time.
Semantic search is the foundation for conversational visibility. Think of it like a restaurant: If semantic search is the chef who knows exactly what you mean by “something light,” conversational search is the waiter who remembers that you’re ordering for dinner.
Feature
Semantic search
Conversational search
Goal
To understand intent and context
To handle a flow of questions
How it thinks
It knows “car” and “automobile” are the same thing
It knows that when you say “how much is it?”, “it” refers to the car you just mentioned
The interaction
Searching with a phrase instead of keywords
Having a chat where the computer remembers what you were asking about before
Example
Asking “What is a healthy meal?” and getting results for “nutritious recipes.”
Asking “What is a healthy meal?” followed by “give me a recipe for that.”
AI blends them together. It uses semantic understanding to decode your complex intent and conversational logic to keep the thread of the story moving. For brands, this means your content has to be clear enough for the “chef” to interpret and consistent enough for the “waiter” to follow.
What conversational search and AI discovery mean for ecommerce
I recently shared how my mom was using ChatGPT to remodel her kitchen. She didn’t start by searching for “the best cabinets.” Instead, she leveraged ChatGPT as her pseudo-designer and contractor, using AI to solve specific problems.
Product discovery happened naturally through constraint-based queries:
“Find cabinets that fit these dimensions and match this specific wood type.”
“Are these cabinets easy for a DIY installation?”
Her conversations were piling up, allowing her to reach multiple solutions at once. Her discovery journey was layered. When ChatGPT recommended products to complete her tasks, she simply followed up with, “Where can I buy those?”
Brands and marketers need to stop optimizing for keywords and start optimizing for tasks. Identify the specific conversations where your product becomes the solution. If your data can’t answer the “Will this fit?” or “Is this easy?” questions, you won’t be part of the final recommendation.
“Recommend products” is the top task users trust AI to handle, highlighting a clear opportunity for brands, according to Tinuiti’s 2026 AI Trends Study. (Disclosure: I am the Sr. Director of AI SEO Innovation at Tinuiti.)
For your brand to be the one recommended, your PDPs must provide the “ground truth” details these assistants need to make a confident selection.
Step away from the keyword research tools and stop asking for “prompt volumes.” In an AI-driven world, intent is more important than volume. Before changing a single page, you need to understand the high-intent journeys your personas are actually taking.
To identify your high-intent semantic opportunities:
Audit your personas: Who is your buyer, and what are their non-negotiable questions? If you haven’t mapped these lately, start there.
Bridge the team gap: Talk to your product and sales teams. They know the specific attributes and “deal-breaker” details that actually drive conversions.
Listen to the market: Use sentiment analysis and social listening to find hidden use cases or brand problems. How are people actually using, or struggling with, your product in ways your brand team hasn’t considered?
Map constraints, not keywords: Identify the specific constraints (size, compatibility, budget) that AI agents use to filter recommendations.
How to build PDPs for AI search with decision support
Your PDP should operate like a product knowledge document and be optimized for natural language. This helps an AI system decide whether to recommend the product for a specific situation.
Name your ideal buyer and edge cases
Content should support better decision-making. Audit your PDPs to determine whether they provide enough detail on who the product is best for – and not for. Does the page explicitly name your ideal buyer, their skill level, lifestyle constraints, and deal-breakers?
AI shopping queries often include exclusions, and clearly outlining the important parts of your user search journey will help you understand where your products fit best.
Cover compatibility and product specifications
Compatibility feels synonymous with electronics (e.g., “Will my headphones connect to this computer?”). But think beyond one-to-one compatibility and expand into lifestyle compatibility:
Is this laptop bag waterproof enough for a 20-minute bike ride in the rain, and does it have a clip for a taillight?
Can I fit a Kindle and a book in this purse?
Will this detergent work with my HE washer?
Will this carry-on suitcase fit in the overhead compartment on every airline?
Is this “family-sized” cutting board actually small enough to fit inside a standard dishwasher?
People are searching for how products fit into their lifestyle needs. Highlight and emphasize the features that make your products compatible with their lifestyle.
Breaking down your customer search journey and listening to your customers’ concerns, either through AI sentiment analysis, social listening, or product reviews, will help you understand what you need to be specific about.
Apparel brands should add sizing and fit guidance. Maybe you’re comparing your size 10 jeans to competitors’ sizing, or considering sizing changes based on the cut or style of your other jeans.
Beauty or skincare brands need ingredient combination details. Is this product compatible with other common formulas? Can I layer it over a vitamin C serum?
Toy brands could include important details for parents. Does your product need to be assembled, and how long will it take? Can they assemble it the night before Christmas?
If your biggest customer complaint is understanding when and how to use your products, you’re likely not making it easy enough for them to buy. Better defining your product attributes helps users and LLMs alike better understand your products.
Write for constraint matching instead of browsing
AI shopping discovery is driven by constraints instead of keywords. Shoppers aren’t asking for “the best laptop bag.” They’re asking for a bag that fits under an airplane seat, survives a rainy commute, and still looks professional in a meeting.
PDPs should be written to reflect that reality. Audit your product pages to see whether they answer common “Can I …?” and “Will this work if …?” questions in plain language. These details often live in reviews, FAQs, or support tickets, but rarely surface in core product copy where AI systems are most likely to pull from.
Here’s what transforming your content can look like:
Traditional PDP copy
Laptop backpack
Water-resistant polyester exterior.
Fits laptops up to 15″.
Multiple interior compartments.
Lightweight design.
USB charging port.
PDP copy written for constraints
Laptop backpack
Best for: Daily commuters, frequent flyers, and students who need to carry tech in unpredictable weather.
Not ideal for: Extended outdoor exposure or laptops larger than 15.6″.
Weather readiness: Water-resistant coating protects electronics during short walks or bike commutes in light rain, but is not designed for heavy downpours.
Travel compatibility: Fits comfortably under most airplane seats and in overhead bins on domestic flights.
Capacity and layout: Holds a 15-15.6″ laptop, charger, and tablet, with room for a book or light jacket – but not bulky items.
Lifestyle considerations: Integrated USB port supports charging on the go (power bank not included).
LLMs evaluate how well a product satisfies specific constraints in conversational queries or based on predetermined user preference information.
PDPs that clearly articulate those constraints are more likely to be selected, summarized, and recommended. This type of copy should also help your on-site customers better understand your products.
Just because search platforms change doesn’t mean we should abandon everything we’ve learned in traditional optimization.
Technical SEO fundamentals still heavily apply in AI search:
Can crawlers access and index your site?
Are your product listing pages (PLPs) and PDPs clearly linked and structured?
Do pages load quickly enough for crawlers and users?
Is your most critical content accessible?
In conversational shopping, structured data is playing a different role than it did in traditional SEO strategies. In conversational shopping, it’s about verification.
AI systems use your schema to validate facts before they risk reusing them in an answer. If the AI can’t verify your price, availability, or shipping details through a merchant feed or structured data, it won’t risk recommending you.
Variant clarity is just as important. When differences like size, color, or configuration aren’t clearly defined, AI systems may treat variants as separate products or merge them incorrectly. The result is inaccurate pricing, incompatible recommendations, or missed visibility.
Most importantly, structured data must match what’s visibly true on the page. When schema contradicts on-page content, AI systems avoid recommending uncertain information.
Success on the digital shelf has moved beyond high-volume keywords. In this new era, your visibility depends on how well you satisfy the complex constraints users can provide in a single search. AI models are scanning your pages to see if you meet specific, nuanced requirements, like “gluten-free,” “easy to install,” or “fits a 30-inch window.”
The shift to conversational discovery means your product data must be ready to sustain a dialogue. The goal is simple: provide the density of information necessary for an AI to confidently transact on a user’s behalf. Those who build for these multi-layered journeys will own the future of discovery.
In a conversation on the OpenAI podcast, host Andrew Maine spoke with OpenAI executive Assad Awan, who detailed how ads will roll out in ChatGPT, who will see them and how the company plans to protect user trust.
Who will see ads:
Ads will appear for Free and Go tier users
Plus, Pro and Enterprise subscribers won’t see ads
Enterprise workspaces will remain fully ad-free
The guardrails: Awan emphasized that OpenAI is structuring ads around strict trust principles:
Separation: Ads are visually and technically separate from model answers
Privacy: Conversations aren’t shared with advertisers
Sensitive topics: Health, politics and other sensitive chats won’t show ads
Controls: Users can adjust or turn off personalization — or upgrade to remove ads
According to Awan, the model itself doesn’t know when ads are present and can’t reference them unless a user explicitly asks about one.
Zoom in. OpenAI internally prioritizes user trust over user value, advertiser value and revenue, Awan said — a framework meant to prevent ads from shaping how the model responds.
For small businesses. Awan described a future where AI acts as an advertising agent, helping small businesses run campaigns by describing goals in plain language rather than managing complex dashboards.
Why we care. ChatGPT ads could open a new, high-intent channel where businesses reach users during active conversations and decision-making moments. The platform’s focus on relevance, AI-driven matching and agent-style campaign tools could lower the barrier to entry for small and midsize advertisers while improving performance for larger brands.
If OpenAI succeeds in building a trusted ad environment, it may reshape how advertisers think about discovery and customer engagement in AI-driven interfaces.
What’s next. Early ad tests will be conservative, focusing on usefulness and relevance over volume as OpenAI refines formats and placement.
The big picture. Through advertising, OpenAI is aiming to scale ChatGPT access while maintaining a trust-first design — a balance the company says is central to its long-term strategy.
Google Ads is rolling out recommended experiments on the Experiments page, surfacing test ideas based on an account’s setup and performance data.
How it works: The platform suggests experiment opportunities — such as testing bidding strategies, creative variations, or new campaign features — and presents them directly inside the Experiments dashboard.
Each recommendation includes a preconfigured experiment setup
Advertisers can launch immediately or customize settings
Suggestions appear alongside the standard Create Experiment workflow
Why we care. By removing the need to build tests from scratch, Google is lowering the barrier to experimentation. Advertisers can act on optimization ideas faster and more consistently. However, advertisers should still ensure that the right tests/configurations are being launched to avoid wasted time and budget.
Zoom in. Example prompts include suggestions like enabling final URL expansion to improve campaign performance, displayed through in-dashboard popups tied to the Experiments interface.
The big picture. Google is increasingly embedding automated guidance into Ads workflows, nudging advertisers toward continuous testing and data-driven optimization.
First seen.This update was spotted by PPC News Feed owner, Hana Kobzová.
The Uniswap price chart just printed a sharp 15% intraday rise, and this time it’s not just retail noise. Infact, Whale transaction counts have spiked aggressively and the timing is hard to ignore. UNI recently tapped $2.35, a level closely aligned with late-2020 support zones. Now, heavy capital is stepping in post BlackRock news.
Is the rise from UNI’s lowest point in years a Coincidence? Maybe or Maybe not. let’s look closer for a much clearer perspective.
Why Whales Are Moving & Buying in Sync in Uniswap crypto
Over the past 24 hours, based on Santiment onchain data, 10 addresses have executed transactions exceeding $1 million. At the same time, more than 175 addresses moved over $100K each, both are classified as whale transactions. That’s not random liquidity shuffling, infact that’s concentrated involvement.
Meanwhile, whale cohorts holding between 1,000 and 1 million UNI have increased their balances. In plain terms, larger players aren’t just trading the bounce they’re mass accumulating.
On the Uniswap price chart, this activity coincides with price stabilizing near long-term structural support. And while broader market sentiment remains fragile, this sort of synchronized whale behavior tends to precede volatility one way or another.
Network Activity Rebound Supports Bullish View For Uniswap price
Now here’s where it gets interesting. Daily active addresses jumped to 1,853 from around 1,150 in prior days. That’s a material uptick in on-chain participation. Interest in Uniswap crypto isn’t just speculative but real users are interacting again and that’s the most positive thing happened.
At the same time, the 30-day MVRV ratio has improved. That metric essentially tracks whether recent buyers are underwater. With it recovering, traders from the past month are beginning to regain position strength. If momentum continues, short-term recovery pressure could build.
Still, let’s be real. A bounce doesn’t automatically mean a trend shift.
BlackRock Catalyst
So why the sudden spark in what was otherwise a bearish atmosphere?
Uniswap Labs and Securitize announced a partnership with BlackRock to enhance DeFi liquidity for institutional investors via the USD Institutional Digital Liquidity Fund (BUIDL). The collaboration enables on-chain trading of BUIDL shares through UniswapX, an auction-driven protocol.
That headline alone was enough to jolt the UNI/USD pair higher.
Institutional bridges tend to shift perception fast. And perception, especially in crypto, often drives short-term price action harder than fundamentals.
UNI/USD Key Deciding Resistance Looms
Now comes the harder part, as the intraday spike loved by all and bullish speculation already jumped. But, the worries has not over yet, as immediate resistance range sits between $5.50 and $7.00.
Clearing that band would suggest the Uniswap price is re-entering a broader bullish range. Failure to build above current momentum, however, could send UNUSD back into consolidation most likely under $4.00 again, until macro sentiment improves.
So, what’s next? For now, the Uniswap price analysis suggests that it is responding to whale accumulation, improving on-chain metrics, and an institutional headline. Whether this develops into a sustained move depends less on today’s spike and more on whether the broader market narrative decides to cooperate.
At the opening of XRP Community Day 2026, Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple, delivered a strong message to the global community, describing XRP as the “north star” and “heartbeat” of Ripple’s long-term strategy.
A celebration of the XRP community
Garlinghouse began his speech by welcoming XRP holders, developers, and partners from around the world, calling the event a celebration of the people building and supporting the ecosystem. He said the growth of XRP has been driven not only by technology but also by the strength of its global community.
XRP remains central to Ripple’s institutional strategy
According to Garlinghouse, XRP continues to guide Ripple’s institutional expansion. He explained that Ripple is focused on:
Expanding liquidity around XRP
Increasing real-world financial use cases
Strengthening enterprise adoption of the XRP Ledger
Building more on-chain financial infrastructure
He emphasized that institutions are increasingly looking for fast, low-cost cross-border payment solutions, and XRP remains a key part of that effort.
Ripple’s long-term vision toward 2030
Looking ahead, Garlinghouse said Ripple aims to grow into a global financial platform company by 2030, offering a wider range of infrastructure services while continuing to build trust across its ecosystem. He noted that utility, liquidity, and real-world adoption of XRP will remain at the center of the company’s mission.
The takeaway
Garlinghouse’s remarks reinforced Ripple’s commitment to XRP as a core part of its future, signaling that upcoming initiatives will focus heavily on expanding institutional usage and strengthening the real-world role of the XRP Ledger in global finance.
The LayerZero price doesn’t usually move quietly. This time, it detonated. A 38% intraday spike and over 75% in seven days. And suddenly, ZRO is the token everyone’s pretending they were watching all along.
What lit the match? Institutional gravity. An announcement confirming a Ark Invest CEO Cathie Wood’s advisory board addition hit the tape, reinforcing a clear narrative: finance is shifting on-chain, and LayerZero intends to be part of that infrastructure layer. Add to that a strategic investment from Tether tied to interoperability tech used by USDt0, and the story writes itself, as this shows credibility, capital, and long-term positioning.
But let’s be real. The market doesn’t move on vision alone. It moves on positioning.
LayerZero Price Surged WIth Institutional Boost
The news cycle delivered exactly what speculative markets crave for. Institutional attention, Reduced perceived project risk, Signals of long-term relevance and most importantly the fresh capital that’s looking for exposure.
That cocktail pushed the LayerZero price sharply higher and flipped sentiment fast. On the LayerZero price chart, the vertical structure is hard to ignore. ZRO/USD didn’t grind up. It sprinted.
And whenever a chart starts sprinting, traders start sweating.
Big Resistance Lies Ahead In ZRO/USD
Here’s the technical friction point. On the daily timeframe, ZRO/USD is facing resistance in the $2.45–$2.50 range. That’s the immediate ceiling. Price pushing beyond it won’t be easy, and the current hesitation suggests the rally may be running hot.
Now, the nearest round number support sits near $2.00, where possibly other major players are having eye at. If momentum cools and since overheated metrics suggest it might then that’s the level traders are quietly circling.
The broader LayerZero price prediction now hinges on one simple condition: a sustained daily close above $2.45–$2.50. Without that confirmation, upside targets near $2.90 and even $3.30 remain conditional, not promised.
Why A Dip is Likely, Because of Overheating OnChain Signals
And here’s the uncomfortable part. CryptoQuant metrics flag the asset as overheated. Futures retail activity over the past 24 hours has surged, suggesting too many late entrants are piling in at once. Historically, when retail crowds futures positioning, larger players tend to reassess risk.
Volume bubble maps across both futures and spot markets echo that heating pattern. Translation? The move may be extended in the short term.
Now, could the LayerZero crypto rally ignore these warning signs and continue higher? Absolutely. Markets love squeezing doubters. But confirmation matters.
So what’s next in LayerZero price?
If buyers defend $2.00 and build structure, the narrative holds. If price reclaims and closes firmly above the resistance band, momentum traders will chase toward higher targets.
Until then, the LayerZero price sits at a crossroads charged with institutional narrative fuel, but flashing technical exhaustion lights at the same time.
Altay'ın stoperi Sefa Özdemir, sarı kart cezası nedeniyle Söke 1970 SK maçında forma giyemeyecek ve yerine genç savunmacı Yunus Efe Sarıkaya'nın oynaması bekleniyor.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə klubun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. “Real”ın da bu qərarından sonra Super Liqa layihəsi başlamadan başa çatıb.
2021-ci ildə Avropanın tanınmış 12 klubu yeni liqa yaratmaq niyyətində olduğunu açıqlayıb. İdeya müəllifi isə “Real”ın rəhbəri Florentino Peres olub. Daha sonra UEFA və FIFA-nın təzyiqindən sonra klubların əksəir layihədən ayrılıb.
“Barselona”nın da Super Liqadan çıxmasıyla layihəni tək dəstləkyən komanda “Real” qalmışdı.
“Barselona” İspaniya Kubokunun yarımfinal mərhələsində sabah “Atletiko” ilə qarşılaşacaq.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, Kataloniya təmsilçisinin hücumçusu Markus Reşford görüşdə iştirak etməyəcək. Bu barədə klubun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.
Dizindən zədə alan ingilis futbolçu Madridlilərlə matçı buraxacaq.
“Atletiko” – “Barselona” oyunu sabah, saat 00:00-da keçiriləcək.
AFFA Hakimlər Komitəsinin sədri Rəhim Həsənov Misli Premyer Liqasının 19-cu turunun oyunlarındakı mübahisəli epizodları şərh edib. Msport.az xəbər verir ki, o, […]
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Miguel Andujar and the San Diego Padres on Wednesday finalized their $4 million, one-year contract, a deal that allows him to earn an additional $2.2 million.
Andujar gets a $1.5 million salary, and the deal includes an $8 million mutual option for 2027 with a $2.5 million buyout.
His buyout can escalate based on plate appearances: $200,000 each for 200 and 250, $250,000 apiece for 300 and 350, $300,000 for 400, and $500,000 each for 500 and 600.
A nine-year major league veteran, Andujar has a .282 batting average with 53 homers and 223 RBIs for the New York Yankees (2017-22), Pittsburgh (2022-23), the Athletics (2024-25) and Reds.
FORT WORTH, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 20: Eric McAlister #1 of the TCU Horned Frogs carries the ball against the SMU Mustangs before scoring a touchdown against the SMU Mustangs during the first half at Amon G. Carter Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The NFL announced its 319 invitees to the 2026 Scouting Combine, which will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis from Feb. 26 through March 1. Five TCU Horned Frogs have been invited to participate in the event, which serves as a primer for the 2026 NFL Draft later this spring. WR Eric McAlister, FS Bud Clark, LB Namdi Obiazor, LB Kaleb Elarms-Orr and TE DJ Rogers are the TCU athletes who’ve received combine invitations.
The Horned Frogs have sent players to the combine in each of the last six years. Jack Bech and Savion Williams represented TCU last year, while Josh Newton, Jared Wiley and Brandon Coleman were three of the six Horned Frogs invited in 2024. TCU had nine players at the combine in 2023: Max Duggan, Kendre Miller, Derius Davis, Quentin Johnston, Steve Avila, Alan Ali, Dee Winters, Dylan Horton and Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson.
McAlister and Elarms-Orr were both named All-Big 12 First Team selections in 2025. McAlister led the Horned Frogs in receiving, catching 72 passes for 1,190 yards and 10 touchdowns. Elarms-Orr was TCU’s leading tackler on defense, finishing with 130 total tackles (60 solo stops) while adding four sacks and two pass breakups.
Clark was named an All-Big 12 Second Team player in each of his last two years at TCU. The sixth-year safety concluded his collegiate career with 214 tackles, 35 pass breakups and 15 interceptions. Obiazor, who was also a six-year college player, was a one-time All-Big 12 Honorable Mention who ended his time in Fort Worth with 302 total tackles (166 solo stops), 17 TFLs, 8.5 sacks, nine pass breakups, three interceptions and two forced fumbles.
Rogers had a career season at tight end in 2025, finishing with 34 receptions for 319 yards and two touchdowns. A former four-star prospect, Rogers ended his time at TCU with 53 catches for 539 yards and five touchdowns.
Tanking in the NBA is getting out of hand. Jaren Jackson Jr. made his debut with the Utah Jazz and had 22 points through three quarters. Then he sat down and watched a 15-point lead disappear. So did Lauri Markkanen. And so did Jusuf Nurkic. Utah lost. That was the point.
Every year, tanking happens. But the scale of it this season is staggering, and it's undermining the product. The Jazz are not alone in their mission to intentionally lose. The Grizzlies traded away Jackson and aren't rushing back Zach Edey or Ja Morant. The Pacers rested six veterans in a loss against the Jazz last week. The Bucks are keeping Giannis Antetokounmpo away from the court for as long as possible. Trae Young and Anthony Davis haven't played yet for the Wizards. The Bulls flipped half the team for a nonsensical roster with eight guards on it. The Nets and Kings aren't trying to win. Neither are the Mavericks. Even the team that just hit the jackpot is back in the tank.
That’s nine teams. We’re not even at the All-Star break. This is happening despite a 2019 lottery reform that flattened the odds so the three worst teams share a 14% chance at the top pick. That was supposed to fix things. It hasn't. No team is tanking to the extremes of the Process Sixers. But more teams are tanking into the top 10, because odds in the middle of the lottery now have a real chance of jumping into the top four like the Mavericks did one year ago, leaping from 11th to first to take Cooper Flagg. Since the 2019 reform, 11 of the 28 top-four picks have gone to teams with seventh-or-worse odds. Under the new rules, the NBA has matched decades of lottery chaos in just seven years.
(Hassan Ahmad/Yahoo Sports Illustration)
That's one reason tanking has reached this scale. The other? An absolutely stacked 2026 draft class. There are at least three players worthy of the first pick: Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, BYU forward AJ Dybantsa, and Duke big Cam Boozer. Even beyond them, the rest of the top 10 is stacked. Executives believe this draft has a chance to be historic.
“What’s happening is largely a byproduct of this draft class,” said one general manager of a playoff team. “But that doesn’t make it right. The league office needs to make an example out of someone. That's how you send a message.”
Adam Silver could punish a tanking team if he wanted with a massive fine or by stripping a pick. But tanking lives in gray areas. Is Utah resting stars in the fourth quarter more punishable than Washington keeping its new acquisitions in street clothes? The Jazz got fined $100,000 last year for resting Markkanen. In 2023, the Mavericks got hit for $750,000 for tanking out of the play-in and into the lottery. But teams treat those fines as a tax for better draft odds. The NBA's draft system directly rewards losing, and as long as that incentive exists, front offices will exploit it. Enforcement becomes whack-a-mole.
Plenty of half-measures have been floated over the years — wins-based odds, multi-year standings formulas, tournaments for lottery teams — but every one of them still ties record to draft position, which means every one of them can be gamed.
Is tanking inevitable? What if you could design a system that completely severs the link between losing and draft position? Here’s an idea: I call it the Lottery Wheel.
The basics of the Lottery Wheel
The premise is simple: remove a team’s record from the draft equation entirely. Use predetermined lottery odds assigned years in advance to every team. Those odds rotate annually. This system retains randomness through a lottery draw, and those odds would remain tradable, which would create an entirely new market for teams to rebuild without needing to lose on purpose.
The Lottery Wheel works by dividing the NBA's 30 teams into five tiers of six teams each. Every tier is assigned a percentage of the total lottery odds, and those odds are distributed equally among the six teams within that tier.
The Jazz are sitting their top players in fourth quarters in an attempt to tank games ... in February. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
Rich Storry via Getty Images
All 30 teams would be eligible for the lottery, not just the 14 teams that miss the playoffs. Why? Because if only non-playoff teams are eligible, you recreate a tanking incentive at the margins. Under any 14-team lottery in which all playoff teams are excluded, a team on the bubble has a genuine reason to lose its way out of the playoffs to retain lottery position.
Before the system launches, the NBA would seed every team into its starting position on the wheel based on cumulative record, with the worst teams selecting first. Once every team has its spot, the wheel locks in and rotates automatically.
The tiers would rotate on a five-year cycle, meaning every team passes through every tier exactly once over five years. The rotation is staggered — Tier 1, then Tier 3, then Tier 5, then Tier 2, then Tier 4 — so that no team ever has back-to-back premium years. Everyone knows where they'll be. Records are irrelevant. Odds are determined solely by which tier the wheel assigned to you that year. There is literally zero incentive to lose.
The Lottery Wheel’s odds
The NBA’s current lottery implementation talks about odds in the context of 1,000 combinations assigned to teams. For simplicity, the Lottery Wheel could use 600 combinations to evenly distribute odds within each tier:
Tier 1: 40 combinations per team (240 total)
Tier 2: 25 combinations per team (150 total)
Tier 3: 18 combinations per team (108 total)
Tier 4: 11 combinations per team (66 total)
Tier 5: 6 combinations per team (36 total)
A Tier 1 team has roughly a 6.7% chance at the No. 1 pick. That's the best seat at the table, but it's less than half of the 14% the current system gives the worst team. Even Tier 5 teams carry a 1% chance, which is comparable to what the 13th-worst team gets under today's rules. No tier is a dead year.
Every team would receive 40, 25, 18, 11, and six combinations over the five-year cycle. That's exactly 100 per team. The system is perfectly equitable by design. No franchise is advantaged or disadvantaged over time. The only variable is which years your premium odds fall.
How the order is determined
The top six picks are determined by a weighted lottery draw. All 30 teams are in the pool, and their odds are based on their tier assignment, plus whatever odds were acquired via trade. Each pick is drawn individually.
Here’s how those odds look:
Tier
Combos
#1 Odds
Top 3 Odds
Top 6 Odds
Tier 1
40
6.7%
19.5%
37.5%
Tier 2
25
4.2%
12.6%
25.2%
Tier 3
18
3%
9.1%
18.8%
Tier 4
11
1.8%
5.7%
11.8%
Tier 5
6
1%
3.1%
6.6%
Picks seven through 30 are slotted by tier. After the lottery draws the top six, the remaining teams fill in by tier order: all remaining Tier 1 teams go first, then Tier 2, then Tier 3, and so on. Those picks could be determined by randomizing their placement with a mini-lottery, similar to a reform idea presented by Boston Celtics executive Mike Zarren, which helped inspire my first Wheel concept published over a decade ago.
The second round would follow the same tier-based structure for every pick in the round, with placement randomized within each tier.
You might be thinking: A 6.7% chance seems kinda low for Tier 1 teams. True. But because of how slotting works, a Tier 1 team's floor is the 7-12 range. That's a lottery pick in today's system.
Owners of bad teams will ask: “Why would I vote for a system that stops rewarding me for being terrible?” But the Lottery Wheel shifts the rebuilding engine from losing games to winning trades.
The trade market would change
Under the current system, teams trade future draft picks. With the Lottery Wheel, odds would also be tradable. And that changes everything. Draft capital would also have a known, quantifiable value attached to it. It turns draft capital into a liquid currency. That's a fundamentally different rebuilding engine for teams trading away or acquiring odds.
Here's an example: It's the 2036 trade deadline. Toronto is at the top of the standings and in its Tier 2 year for the draft. That means Toronto has 25 combinations, a 4.2% shot at the first pick and a 25.2% chance at a top-six pick. In today’s NBA, a contender’s first is usually a pick in the 20s and rarely the centerpiece of a rebuild trade. But under the Lottery Wheel, suddenly a contender's pick has value. And New Orleans, a non-contender in its Tier 5 year, has a player that Toronto desires. So the Pelicans acquire that pick from the Raptors to increase their odds, and the Raptors get a player to compete for a title.
That's an approach that doesn't exist in the current system, and it's the kind of transaction that would replace tanking as the primary engine of rebuilding.
The honest problems
I’m not going to pretend this system is flawless. It isn’t. Let me address the biggest concerns head-on.
1. Chronically bad teams lose their safety net
This is the most legitimate objection. Under the current system, if you’re terrible for seven straight years, you get seven straight years of great odds. There at least appears to be a path out for terrible teams. Whereas, with the Lottery Wheel, you get one Tier 1 year, and in my proposal those odds are only 6.7%.
“You’re asking bad teams to give up the one thing that makes being bad tolerable,” said an executive who heard my proposal.
Fair point. But the current system doesn't necessarily help chronically bad teams either. Only one team with under 20 wins (Minnesota in 2020) has actually secured the top overall pick since the rules were changed in 2019. The most common outcome for the teams with the best odds? The fifth pick. This has happened seven times for the 21 teams that have had 14% odds. In other words, the NBA has already effectively removed the safety net. And unlike today, a bad team doesn't have to stay bad to improve its position. It can acquire better odds through trades at any point in the cycle, or simply get lucky in any given year. Even Tier 5 teams have a shot at the top six.
2. A contender could win the first pick
Yup. It's possible. But that's already possible under the current system, with the Thunder holding the rights to an unprotected first courtesy of the Clippers. In 2017, we saw the Celtics land the first pick with a pick they acquired from the Nets.
The lottery is inherently unpredictable. And so is the draft. Great players can be found anywhere. The Lottery Wheel makes it more of a regular thing for good teams to get high picks, but the question is whether it's better for randomness to exist within a system that incentivizes winning or one that incentivizes losing. If the price of eliminating tanking is that sometimes a great team lucks into a great player, that's a price worth paying.
The modern day draft is no longer “compensation for being bad.” It's simply how new talent enters the league. But losing is still rewarded because of the probability of moving up. That needs to change. And if a contender landing in Tier 1 feels like too much of an advantage — between the lottery odds and the guaranteed slotting floor of picks seven through 12 — the league could simply expand the weighted draw beyond six picks to soften that edge.
3. The known draft class problem
Everyone in the basketball world has a rough sense of which draft classes are loaded three to four years out. It’s not an exact science, of course. But a team whose Tier 1 year falls in a weak class gets unlucky through no fault of its own.
This was one of the classic criticisms of the Zarren “wheel” idea: if teams know in advance when they’ll be positioned well, elite prospects can time their draft entry to land in preferred situations. With modern NIL and two-year college stays on the horizon, that dynamic becomes even more plausible.
4. Expansion breaks the math
The NBA is almost certainly expanding to 32 teams at some point in the 2030s. Thirty divides cleanly into five tiers of six, but 32 doesn’t. The league would need to adjust to either four tiers of eight, or vice versa, or have tiers with uneven group sizes.
5. Some teams are still going to stink
Even if draft incentive disappears, teams will still protect assets with load management and minutes limits, and still prioritize development over short-term wins, and still make financially motivated choices by ducking the tax and dumping salaries. So yes, the Lottery Wheel removes draft-driven tanking, but it does not magically create 30 teams playing like it’s Game 7 every night.
Every one of those problems is an edge case, an optics concern, or something patchable with rules tweaks. But the numbers and percentages are adjustable. The structure is the point. The core mechanic is simple: your record has nothing to do with your draft position.
Realistically, a system like this couldn’t take effect until the 2030s. Teams have already traded picks over the next seven years under the existing rules. This is around the time when expansion is expected. Restructuring the draft alongside expansion would give the league a natural window to start from scratch with enormous benefits.
The benefits of the Lottery Wheel
With all 30 teams in the pool, you'd see teams on the playoff bubble like the Bucks, Bulls, Grizzlies, and Mavericks all still competing for a spot this year if their odds weren’t tied to being in the lottery.
More games would have meaning, making the regular season matter more. You would not see teams throwing out idiotic lineups or coaches installing bad game plans meant to increase their chances of losing. Instead, the focus shifts to winning games and developing players.
The Lottery Wheel also changes the conversation around resting players. The league's player participation policy would still exist since stars should play in marquee games. But the league would no longer have to guess whether a team is resting a player or tanking. That suspicion disappears. This is important not just for optics but for the genuine integrity of the league. The NBA has fully embraced sports betting and is making money off fans betting on games. Games that some teams are intentionally losing. The league can’t partner with sportsbooks and profit off fan engagement while allowing teams to deliberately lose.
The on-court product improves, and so does the off-court spectacle. This is a bigger, better TV product than the current four-pick drawing involving only non-playoff teams. With the Lottery Wheel system, every fan base in the league is watching because their team has skin in the game. Drawing only the top six picks keeps the truly franchise-altering picks subject to chance, while letting the tier structure do its work from pick seven onward.
No system is perfect. The Lottery Wheel has edge cases and implementation questions that would need to be worked through. But the question facing the NBA isn't whether a new system would be flawless. It's whether it would be better than what we have.
Fans are paying the price. Buying tickets days in advance is a gamble when you don’t know if the stars you’re paying to see will actually play. The league knows this is an issue, which is one reason why they created the NBA Cup (to give the early part of the season more meaning) and the play-in tournament (to make the playoffs more attainable for more teams). The NBA is an entertainment product, and it’s not just competing with other sports leagues anymore. It’s competing with everything: Netflix, YouTube, every other piece of content fighting for attention. The games need to matter.
The league’s open-mindedness for experimentation to improve that product is admirable. But the flattened odds have failed at influencing teams to care more about putting the best team on the floor every night of the long season. Nine teams are tanking before the All-Star break. Others will join them in the weeks ahead. The problem isn’t going away. The league needs to stop tinkering and start reimagining.
"You won't see that this year," Jazz general manager Austin Ainge said in June when asked about Utah’s tanking approach. He lied. And until the NBA stops rewarding teams for losing, they all will.
MILAN (AP) — Franjo von Allmen of Switzerland looks like a breakout star of the Milan Cortina Olympics after winning his third gold medal. Chloe Kim and a bunch of NHL stars are just getting started.
Von Allmen won the super-G in Bormio on Wednesday to become the third man with three victories in Alpine skiing at one Winter Games. It hadn't been done since 1968.
That's not a priority for von Allmen, though. He said he's just staying in the moment. As for history, “maybe in a few years it will be important for me,” he added.
Later Wednesday, Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the U.S. seek gold in the ice dance competition, and medals will be awarded in luge and speedskating.
NHL stars back on Olympic ice
The puck dropped on men's hockey on Wednesday, marking the return of NHL players to the Games for the first time since 2014.
Defending champion Finland got the action underway against Slovakia at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in the first game of the preliminary round.
It's an Olympic return for Slovakia's Juraj Slafkovsky of the Montreal Canadiens, who won bronze as a 17-year-old in 2022, and promptly scored the first goal of the men's tournament.
The NHL opted not to participate in the Pyeongchang Olympics of 2018 and pandemic-related scheduling issues prompted the league to skip the Beijing Games in 2022.
Chloe Kim off to a flying start
The halfpipe three-peat attempt began promisingly for Chloe Kim on Wednesday as she finished first in qualifying while competing with a shoulder brace.
After a shoulder injury disrupted her buildup to the Games, Kim credited her muscle memory and a “very well-behaved” shoulder for getting her through to the 12-athlete final on Thursday.
Elsewhere in the mountains, Elizabeth Lemley and Jaelin Kauf won gold and silver for the United States in women’s freestyle moguls skiing. Jens Luraas Oftebro of Norway overtook rivals and plowed through deep, slushy snow for gold in the Nordic combined normal hill event. And in the women's 15-kilometer individual biathlon, Julia Simon became the first Frenchwoman to win gold and teammate Lou Jeanmonnot took silver.
“Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who are injured, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community,” the statement said.
A standoff between Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych and the International Olympic Committee rumbled on as he again trained in a helmet decorated with portraits of Ukrainians killed in Russian attacks, many of them athletes. The IOC says it won't allow the helmet in competition.
As the case against Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. continues to unfold, the alleged victim has made it clear that she is willing to fully and complete cooperate.
Via Marc Raimondi of ESPN.com, lawyers representing WNBA player Rickea Jackson filed an official notice on Tuesday indicating that she is "willing to testify" against Pearce, if/when the domestic violence charges against him go to trial.
Jackson's attorneys also asked the court to devote "all possible resources and personnel" to the case to "conclude it as soon as practicable and bring justice to her and the people of the State of Florida."
Pearce faces five felony charges and one misdemeanor account arising from a Saturday incident during which he allegedly rammed Jackson's car multiple times before allegedly evading and resisting arrest.
Pearce, through his lawyers, has proclaimed his innocence as to all allegations. The NFL has said it will review the case under the Personal Conduct Policy.
Mar 2, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Minnesota offensive lineman Airentae Ersery (OL13) participates in the vertical leap during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is set to run from February 23, 2026 through March 2, 2026. As NFL fans, its a great opportunity for us to get a first look at potential 2026 NFL Draft prospects and begin identifying potential targets for the Denver Broncos.
The NFL announced its invite list on Wednesday, which I’ve parsed out into a table at the end of this post. From a position standpoint, it is heavy on the trenches and outside boundary positions. Here is a breakdown of each position group and the number of invited prospects:
Quarterbacks (15)
Running Backs (21)
Wide Receivers (46)
Tight Ends (27)
Offensive Linemen (57)
Defensive Linemen (62)
Linebackers (29)
Defensive Backs (53)
Specialists (7)
For me, I’ll be paying close attention to offensive and defensive linemen, linebackers, running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers. You can always add to the trenches, but they definitely need to figure out options at running back, tight end, and linebacker. We’ll see how they address the needs in free agency too, but that’s where my focus will be come NFL Combine time.
What players or position groups will you be focused on during the combine?
France’s Perrine Laffont took third with a score of 78.00.
Team USA now has 10 medals so far in the Winter Games, which puts them third overall — behind Norway’s 13 medals and Italy’s 11. Click here to find the latest medal count.
SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) — Baltimore Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday will have surgery on Thursday to repair a broken hamate bone in his right hand and will miss opening day.
Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias announced Wednesday that Holliday sustained the injury while taking batting practice last week.
Holliday, 22, hit .242 with 17 home runs, 55 RBIs and 17 stolen bases in 2025. He was the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2022.
Elias also said Wednesday that third baseman Jordan Westburg is recovering from a right oblique injury that could delay his participation in spring training games.
Could Roberto de Zerbi, Mauricio Pochettino or Harry Redknapp be options for Tottenham? [Getty Images]
Tottenham are searching for another manager after sacking Thomas Frank - and they want his immediate successor in place before the players return to training on Monday.
Frank had only been in charge since June, but, with the club 16th in the Premier League and just five points above the relegation zone, Spurs have ended his reign.
BBC Sport looks at the possible contenders - and you can have your say on who you think should replace Frank.
Mauricio Pochettino
[Getty Images]
Age: 53
Current status: United States manager
Major honours: Coupe de France (2020-21), Ligue 1 title (2021-22)
Tottenham fans still have a lot of affection for Pochettino, who managed them from 2014 to 2019.
The Argentine guided Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019, where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool, and also led them to second and third-placed finishes in the Premier League during his tenure.
Since his departure from Spurs in 2019, the London club have had Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo, Antonio Conte, Ange Postecoglou and Frank as permanent managers.
Pochettino has said he "would like one day to come back" to Tottenham, although a return appears unlikely unless Spurs are willing to wait.
He has had stints at Chelsea and Paris St-Germain, leading the French giants to the Ligue 1 title.
Pochettino is currently in charge of the United States and is set to lead them at the upcoming World Cup coming up, which the USA is co-hosting.
In addition, the US soccer federation would be owed what has been described by a well-placed source as "one of the biggest financial compensation fees in football history" if Pochettino left for another club before the World Cup.
Roberto de Zerbi
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Age: 46
Current status: Unattached
Roberto de Zerbi parted ways with French club Marseille by mutual consent on Wednesday morning.
The Italian led the French club to second in Ligue 1 last season but, after recently being knocked out of the Champions League and a 5-0 top-flight defeat by Paris St-Germain, he is back on the market.
De Zerbi has Premier League experience, having spent nearly two years at Brighton.
The former Shakhtar Donetsk coach led the Seagulls to sixth at the end of the 2022-23 season - the club's highest top-flight finish - and secured European qualification for the first time in their history.
Iraola has won plenty of admirers for his work as Bournemouth manager.
He was appointed by the Cherries in summer 2023 and finished 12th in the Premier League in his first season in England, before the south-coast side ended last season in ninth, with a club record top-flight points tally of 56.
Despite Bournemouth selling the likes of Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez and Illia Zabarnyi in the summer, they are currently ninth in the Premier League.
Iraola will be out of contract at the end of the season and, having been linked with Spurs before Frank's appointment, he could be another option.
The Spaniard was sacked from his first managerial job at AEK Larnaca in Cyprus before he took over at Spanish second-tier side Mirandes.
He then joined Rayo Vallecano prior to becoming Bournemouth boss, implementing an eye-catching high-pressing and high-energy style.
Oliver Glasner
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Age: 51
Current status: Crystal Palace manager
Major honours: Europa League (2021-22), FA Cup (2024-25)
Glasner is another manager who will soon be out of contract, having already said he will not sign a new deal with Crystal Palace and leave the club in the summer.
The Austrian will leave as an Eagles legend, having led them to their first major trophy with victory over Manchester City in last season's FA Cup final.
The win secured Palace a place in the Conference League - their first experience of a major European competition.
Glasner, who lost key player Eberechi Eze to Arsenal in the summer, also guided Palace to a victory on penalties against Liverpool in the Community Shield before the start of this season.
He started his managerial career at Austrian side SV Reid before stints at LASK, Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt.
Glasner won the Europa League with Frankfurt in 2022 when his side beat Rangers on penalties in the final.
Marco Silva
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Age: 48
Current status: Fulham manager
Major honours: Portuguese Cup (2014-15), Greek league title (2015-16), EFL Championship title (2021-22)
The Portuguese led Fulham, where he took over in July 2021, back into the top flight in 2022 and has helped them maintain their status since.
Silva started his managerial career in charge of Estoril, guiding them into the Portuguese top flight and the Europa League.
In his single season at Sporting he won the Portuguese Cup, and in his year at Olympiakos, who he also managed in the Champions League, he took them to the Greek league title.
Silva then had stints at Hull City and Watford before being appointed by Everton in May 2018 and, despite being sacked after 18 months in charge, has gone some way to rebuilding his standing at Fulham.
Xavi
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Age: 46
Current status: Unattached
Major honours: La Liga (2022-23)
The former Spain midfielder has been out of work since being sacked by Barcelona at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Having taken over at the Nou Camp in November 2021, he guided Barca to the La Liga title in 2022-23 in the season prior to his departure.
Who are the interim options?
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Tottenham may choose to wait until the summer to appoint a permanent manager and - like Manchester United - opt for an interim boss until the end of the season.
Former Netherlands defender John Heitinga joined Spurs as an assistant coach on 15 January and was previously part of Arne Slot's Premier League title-winning coaching staff at Liverpool.
Ryan Mason previously took temporary charge of Spurs after the sackings of Mourinho in 2021 and Conte in 2023 - and is out of work after being dismissed by West Brom in January.
Harry Redknapp, meanwhile, has said he would "love" to take over at Tottenham until the end of the season.
The 78-year-old, who managed Spurs between 2008 and 2012, told BBC Sport in January: "Confidence is key - [you have to] make them feel confident [and] put them in the right position.
"Tell them to start performing. You've got to be strong with them at the same time.
"They've got some good players, they just need to start performing, don't they?"
The NBA announced punishments stemming from the brawl during the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets game on Monday night, when four players were ejected from the game.
Moussa Diabate and Miles Bridges of the Hornets were sent to the showers early, along with Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart of the Pistons, because of the fight. The league handed down suspensions for all four players on Wednesday.
Diabate and Bridges have both been suspended for four games, while Duren will sit for two games and Stewart receives seven games for his involvement.
Detroit currently holds the top spot in the Eastern Conference at 39-13 and has the second-best record in the NBA. Duren has become a large part of what’s been built in Detroit as the team’s starting center. He’s averaging 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game and has been a walking double-double. Duren is posting a double-double average for the third consecutive season.
NFL player Keion White, a defensive lineman for the San Francisco 49ers, is recovering from surgery after he was shot in the ankle at a private party hosted at the San Francisco nightclub Dahlia’s. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out with their prayers and concerns on my behalf,” White wrote on Instagram. “I’ve undergone successful surgery.”
According to the SF Standard, which reviewed the police report regarding the shooting, a witness reports having witnessed White engage in a verbal altercation with Lil Baby before he was shot. The rapper was in town for an appearance at a Super Bowl event at the Grand Nightclub, and White was hosting a private event at Dahlia’s. It is currently unclear who shot White.
Representatives for Lil Baby did not immediately respond to Rolling Stone‘s request for comment.
“For those who know me, ya’ll know this won’t stop me from spreading peace and joy to the world,” White continued in his statement. “Full steam ahead. I’m in great spirits and ready to make the most of this off-season.” Keion was also in attendance at the Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie issued a statement on X, writing, “Any violent incident in our city is unacceptable, and I’m hoping Keion recovers quickly. I’ve spoken with SFPD and 49ers leadership — we are all grateful to our SFPD officers for their quick response. As always, I will continue working with San Francisco law enforcement to ensure our neighborhoods and our residents are safe.”
San Francisco Police Department spokesman Evan Sernoffsky told The New York Timesthat an investigation is underway. “Our officers are working diligently on this investigation,” he said, “and we’re following multiple leads.”
WNBA star Rickea Jackson is willing to come forward and tell her story, following frightening allegations against Atlanta Falcons star James Pearce Jr. Pearce was arrested for a domestic violence incident just days after appearing at the NFL Honors ceremony as a Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist.
Pearce is facing five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, after allegedly intentionally crashing into Jackson’s car after she ended a three-year relationship and asked her to no longer contact him.
He was also accused of striking a police officer with his vehicle as he attempted to evade arrest.
Now, Jackson said she is “willing to testify” against Pearce, and her representation requested the court use “all possible resources and personnel” in the case to “conclude it as soon as practicable and bring justice to her and the people of the State of Florida.”
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. (27) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Pearce, who was released after posting $20,500 bond on Sunday, received a pre-trial stay-away order from Jackson after his arrest. The two had been dating since their time as star athletes at the University of Tennessee.
Jackson, who stars for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, was in Miami, where she plays in the Unrivaled women’s 3×3 basketball league. She has withdrawn from the league’s one-on-one tournament.
Falcons aware of incident
The Falcons addressed Pearce’s arrest and the incident with a very brief statement over the weekend.
“We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time,” the statement read.
Sep 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson (2) against the Phoenix Mercury during a WNBA game at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
While the Penn State Nittany Lions have certainly got back on track in terms of the recruiting trail, they just received a big blow from a five-star in the 2027 class.
In-state offensive lineman Maxwell Hiller revealed his final four schools and unfortunately, did not end up including the Nittany Lions. His final list of schools comes down to Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, and Penn State's Big Ten rival Ohio State. He has already set up several visits in the summer for his top three. This news comes almost a week after Penn State lost out on five star running back Kemon Spell, who chose to commit to Georgia over the Nittany Lions.
While Penn State aren't out of it, they still have very few opportunities to secure Hiller's signature. After all, the last offer Penn State had for Hiller came when James Franklin was still the head coach. Matt Campbell has not yet given any indication that he holds the same opinion of Hiller as his predecessor.
Still, during Hiller's time in South Carolina, where he is set to meet with the Gamecocks on June 19th, Campbell could also try to maneuver his way into the conversation, given his plans to head to South Carolina as well. Considering the fact that Penn State has already missed on a big five star recruit in-state with Spell, Campbell may not want to take any chances with Hiller.
Hiller is the No. 10 overall recruit nationally and the No. 2 player in the state of Pennsylvania.
For most of us, the dream of playing professional football as a Philadelphia Eagles star died in high school. We all remembered how much that hurt, so imagine giving 15 years or more to something. Brandon Graham told us before the 2024 NFL season that it would be his last ride with the Birds.
He and his teammates won the Super Bowl, his second. It seemed the perfect walk-away act. Something happened, though. When it came time to hang up the cleats and officially call it a career, Graham seemed to waffle.
Trust us. We get it.
It's a game he played as a youth and one he was still playing in his mid-thirties. Think about that for a few. Every spring and summer, the body begins preparing for the next offseason and training camp.
"If Howie (Roseman) makes that call, I’m coming back! One more!"
That settles that. Now, let's talk about the particulars.
Graham is one of 20 Eagles whose contracts expire at the start of the new league year. They all become free agents if Philadelphia doesn't offer them an extension.
If Graham plays anywhere, it will be in Philadelphia. No one can imagine him in another jersey at this point. He certainly won't play anywhere else, but if we haven't learned anything else, we've discovered that there is plenty of tread left on his tires.
Graham won't play forever, even if it seems as though he could if he wanted to. Will Howie Roseman's first-ever draft choice return for one more run? He's open to it. We'll see if the Eagles grant him that opportunity.
Los Angeles Rams veteran offensive tackle Rob Havenstein announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday in an Instagram post. Havenstein was the Rams’ longest-tenured player and a four-time team captain after the franchise (then-based in St. Louis) drafted him with the No. 57 overall pick in 2015.
“11 years, 150+ starts, 4 time captain, 4 NFC West Championships, 2 NFC Championships and 1x Super Bowl Champion. What a ride it’s been! I can look back on my career and smile knowing I have given everything I had and more to the game I love,” Havenstein wrote on Instagram. “In saying that, I am officially retiring from the NFL.”
Havenstein played for the Rams for all 11 seasons of his NFL career and started in all 148 regular season games he played with the team. He was also the starting right tackle for Los Angeles when the Rams won Super Bowl LVI.
The 33-year-old started in seven games for Los Angeles this season but missed multiple games with an ankle injury. The Rams placed him on the injured reserve, and he was expected to return in time for the playoffs but was ultimately ruled out of the NFC Championship game.
Who Will Start in Havenstein’s Position Next Season?
The Rams have already had the opportunity to test out some younger players in the offensive line when Havenstein was out with the ankle injury this season.
Third-year offensive tackle Warren McClendon Jr. impressed Rams head coach Sean McVay with his performance this season. McVay told reporters earlier this month that McClendon has earned a starting spot next season if Havenstein retires.
“No question,” McVay said, per ESPN’s Sarah Barshop. “He has. He’s done great. He played really well.”
McClendon is signed to a four-year, $4.08 million rookie contract and will return to the Rams next season.
Manchester City announce new £5 million per year Automative Partner
Premier League giants Manchester City have confirmed a deal to appoint a brand new Official Automative Partner at the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy.
The latest sponsorship agreement and partnership represents another significant commercial step for the English giants as they continue to expand their global portfolio of partners while placing a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability.
The new partnership also aligns with Manchester City’s wider strategy of working with forward-thinking brands that reflect the club’s long-term environmental and technological ambitions.
Now, as confirmed by Manchester City on Wednesday morning, the club have unveiled a brand new partnership with BYD to become the Official Automotive Partner of the club, covering both its men’s and women’s first teams.
It has been detailed that BYD and DENZA cars and other vehicles will be supplied to the club, while BYD Group will also be responsible for vehicle charging and energy-storage batteries at City Football Academy.
BYD will feature on Manchester City’s training kit sleeve of the men’s first team, and from next season the women’s first team, while there will also be brand presence across the Etihad Stadium with LED advertising and the logo on headrests of the dug-out area.
Supporters can also expect to see one of the company’s cars lead the official Manchester City men’s first team bus into the Etihad Stadium for Premier League and domestic-cup home fixtures, the statement confirmed, while BYD will also support future global community initiatives working closely with City Football Foundation.
Chief Executive Officer at City Football Group, Ferran Soriano said as part of the statement confirming the agreement, “BYD are global leaders within their field. Leaders in delivering excellence through technology and innovation.
“Leaders with purpose, to make the world a better place. All values that Manchester City share. As a Club, we are driven by a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation.
“We partner with industry leaders to create a more environmentally sustainable future, starting with our facilities.
“This is why we are so proud to be BYD’s chosen partner and commit to work together for a better and more sustainable future for the duration of this multi-year partnership.”
According to the report of Łukasz Bączek, BYD Group’s deal with Manchester City will be worth over £5 million per year.
The partnership further underlines City’s commercial strength and global appeal, with BYD becoming the latest high-profile brand to associate itself with the club’s on-pitch success and off-pitch vision.
For supporters, the deal will be most visible through branding at the Etihad Stadium and on training wear, while behind the scenes it marks another step towards greener infrastructure at City Football Academy.
With the agreement described as a multi-year partnership, both parties will be hoping the collaboration delivers long-term value, reinforcing Manchester City’s position at the forefront of modern football both commercially and environmentally.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 10: Romeo Doubs #87 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL wild card playoff game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on January 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The San Francisco 49ers bringing Deebo Samuel back a year after he requested a trade would feel like a “vibes” move. The San Francisco 49ers bringing in Green Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs this offseason would feel like a move to address some of the issues the offense had in 2025.
The 49ers need a wide receiver who thrives at the intermediate level but can also excel at the short and deep levels. Doubs is 6’2″ and turns 26 in April. He caught 55 passes last season with an average depth of 12.9 yards. Doubs was a first-down machine, as 76.4 percent of his receptions moved the chains.
The 49ers didn’t have an isolation receiver last year. It was telling that when the team needed someone to go to, Kyle Shanahan drew up plays for Jauan Jennings rather than Ricky Pearsall. Nobody would argue that Pearsall brings more to the table as a whole, but situationally, you can’t ignore that.
Through the first half of the season, Doubs aligned isolated on a career-high 34.8 percent of his snaps, which was the 9th-highest in the NFL up to that point. Doubs being productive in that role should be another reason the Niners interest is piqued. Watching Doubs have 124 yards on eight receptions in a playoff setting shouldn’t hurt, either.
Doubs would be a little different from the “YAC bro” type of receivers the 49ers are accustomed to using. He only broke five tackles last season and only had one game with over 20 yards after the catch. It’s also not something to view negatively.
One could argue it’s time for the Niners to evolve from the early Shanahan days and move on from the “Deebo types” and rely on the 6’2″ wideouts who can make plays down the field. Doubs had five receptions of over 20 yards last season. On 32 targets from the 10-19 (intermediate) range, he had 16 receptions, averaging 17.2 yards per reception with an average separation of 2.3 yards.
Doubs could take over the “Third and Jauan” role as well. Doubs caught 13 of his 24 targets on third down, 12 resulting in a first down, for an average of 14.38 yards per reception. How Doubs was used on third downs would make him a good fit. Here are a handful of examples:
Green Bay would isolate him on 3rd & 3, and Doubs would win on a slant for a first down.
3rd & 6 as the isolated receiver, Doubs catches a 6-yard curl after separating underneath and gains 10 yards after the catch.
3rd & 2 from the slot, runs by the cornerback for a 33-yard touchdown
3rd & 1 as the isolated wide receiver, runs a corner route for a 33-yard gain
3rd & 8 as the isolated receiver, wins on an out route for a first down
That’s Doubs winning on five different routes, all on third down and to different areas of the field.
Jennings and Deebo’s route tree was somewhat predictable. You could sit on specific routes because you knew the odds of Deebo running anything to the sideline or Jennings beyond 12 yards were slim. That’s not the case with Doubs.
I don’t want to make it seem like Doubs is the next Terrell Owens. His frame makes it difficult to win in contested situations. On 25 targets last year, there was a “tight window,” or the separation was under a yard, and Doubs only caught five of those passes. It’s worth pointing out that some of those were jump balls that didn’t have a chance, and most were down the field — the average was 16.8 air yards per target. Still, Doubs didn’t finish the play.
Spotrac’s market valuation predicts that Doubs will command $12 million per season. Pearsall, on one side, with Doubs on the other, at that price in this offense would make everybody better. Adding Doubs would allow the 49ers not to feel like they’re forced to select a receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft, too.
The 49ers would still be missing their Brandon Aiyuk or true WR1, but the offense would be in a much better position with Doubs on the roster heading into the draft.
Ronald Araujo received call from Real Madrid star during mental health battle
Barcelona star Ronald Araujo appears to be on the right track after battling anixety and subsequently depression over the past 18 months. The Uruguayan has stated that ‘the worst is behind me’, following his return to football in January. He took a leave of absence in December in order to recover.
The imposing central defender had lost his starting place for Barcelona, and when sent off against Chelsea in late November decided to stop. Araujo returned to action in January, and made his first start last week against Albacete. During an in-depth interview on Tuesday, Araujo opened up about his battles, and explained that he felt he was on an upward trajectory.
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior called Araujo
While the rivalry between clubs is often fierce, first and foremost, players relate to players. Diario AS explain that during Araujo’s battle, he received a call from Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, with whom he has gone to battle on a number of occasions. Towards the end of 2025, during his leave of absence, the Brazilian asked how he was doing and offered his support and encouragement.
Image via Movistar+
After the Spanish Supercup final, Araujo and Vinicius could be seen embracing, as was the case with Dani Ceballos and Dani Carvajal, who asked how he was.
Araujo: ‘I’m not going to give names, but in encouraged me’
During his interview with MD, Araujo was also asked about the support he had received from players at other clubs.
“That really surprised me. When I decided to stop, I didn’t imagine it causing so much reaction, but, of course, we’re at Barca. Players from other teams in Italy, Germany… They appreciated what I had done. Some told me they had gone through the same thing but had kept quiet because maybe they were getting paid, they were afraid to stop, afraid of how people would react… Many praised what I had done.”
“They told me not to be ashamed, that what I had done was incredible. Some told me it was what they wanted to do but hadn’t had the courage. I’m not going to name names. But that gave me a little encouragement.”
Araujo was also highly complementary of Barcelona Director of Football Deco, and manager Hansi Flick with their handling of the matter, as well as his teammates. Araujo is not the first footballer and won’t be the last to struggle with his mental health, but it remains infrequent that players will address it in public.
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 9: Kyle Allen #8 of the Detroit Lions throws a pass during the NFL 2025 game against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s been a while since the Detroit Lions have had a staple at backup quarterback. The longest-tenured backup (not third string) the team has had under coach Dan Campbell was Teddy Bridgewater who was on the team for two seasons, granted he didn’t come back for year two until he was done coaching his high school football team. Before Campbell was the coach, the Lions were in a similar situation at backup quarterback, a revolving door of players coming in and stepping out.
I had to go back from 2014-16 where the team had Dan Orlovsky as the backup quarterback for three-straight seasons, and before him, the team had Shaun Hill from 2010-13. What I’m getting at is the team could use some consistency at its backup quarterback spot, someone who will be here during the whole season and continue to stick around for a while. The team could finally have that in Kyle Allen.
Let’s discuss whether the Lions should keep Allen around for another year, or if they should keep that revolving door swinging.
The Lions were looking to give former third-round pick Hendon Hooker some competition for the backup job with Bridgewater signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The team believed Hooker could win the backup job, but wanted to make him earn it instead of handing it over. Detroit signed Allen to a one-year deal for $1.27 million.
With Allen’s past, he was looked down upon as the obvious third-string option and the job would be something Hooker should win. While Hooker wasn’t impressing greatly, he was in his third year in the league and second training camp after missing a majority of his rookie year in 2023. The team drafted him to be a potential backup so it was understandable that they had that confidence in him before the season began. By September, Allen was projected to be an afterthought or practice squad guy.
Actual role in 2025
Note: PFF grades reflect a minimum 20% snaps at that position. Allen didn’t hit this threshold
Season stats — 3 games (0 starts): 0-for-2 for 0 yards, three carries for -3 yards. 16 offensive snaps
Despite all of the slander Allen got from multiple people (myself included), he impressed in training camp and the preseason and defeated Hooker for the backup job. While it looked close in practice, Allen was clearly the better gamer, and he took care of the football in the preseason, unlike Hooker. With that, not only did the Lions give him the backup quarterback job, they ended up cutting Hooker from the roster, leaving the team with only two quarterbacks. They would later add C.J. Beathard to the practice squad as the clear QB3.
Allen didn’t see much playing time, only appearing in garbage time in three games and while he never completed a pass, it didn’t matter overall.
Outlook for 2026
Contract status: Unrestricted free agent
Pros of re-signing
Allen returning would be a cheap and easy decision for the team. He could be the next version of Hill or Orlovsky where he could stick around for a few years, learn, and help Goff out during film sessions and practice. While Goff is a veteran himself, having another quarterback who has been in the league for a while helps offer a second pair of seasoned eyes. That could be especially helpful as Detroit installs their new offense under Drew Petzing.
Who knows? Maybe Allen has another strong showing in the preseason, and if Detroit likes their third-string option, they could trade Allen for some draft capital in 2027.
Cons of re-signing
The team could find a better backup than Allen. Someone like Joe Flacco would be an option. Upgrading the backup would cost some extra money, but that could be worth it to provide some insurance at the most important position. Outside of that, there really isn’t a downside.
Is there interest from both sides?
I don’t see why not. Detroit saw the value in Allen and believed he was better than someone they drafted. So the Lions clearly like him.
I would lean towards Allen liking Detroit for seeing his skills and trusting him. He isn’t going to win any starting jobs around the NFL, so he’s a career backup at this point. Unless he wants to go somewhere else that would offer him more money, another year in Detroit makes sense for both sides.
Cost?
Allen deserves a little bit of a pay bump for winning the backup job last year. He’s earned roughly the same amount of money the past three years, with his biggest deal being for $2.5 million with the Houston Texans back in 2022. I don’t think he gets that much of a pay bump, but I could see him warranting $1.5 to $1.75 million on another one-year deal unless the team wants to commit to him longer. The max I could see is a two-year deal for $3 million.
Conclusion
Overall, I see it as a slam dunk decision to bring back Allen in 2026. While the offensive coordinator has changed, he will be right alongside Goff in that adjustment, whatever it may be. He knows the roster and coaching staff, and I don’t think the team would sign someone to try and uproot Allen out of Detroit. The team needs to have better consistency at the backup quarterback spot and Allen is the best fit for that.
What do you think the Lions should do with Kyle Allen? Vote in the poll below and let us know in the comments.
Oct 5, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Detroit Lions guard Tate Ratledge (69) spikes the football while celebrating a touchdown during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
The Detroit Lions 2025 NFL Draft class is still very much a work in progress, but the team did get some contributions from a few rookies. It’s far too early to judge an entire draft class after one season, but we can certainly congratulate and celebrate specific individuals who showed a lot of promise in their first NFL season.
Here are our nominations for 2025 Detroit Lions Rookie of the Year. Your vote at the bottom of the page will determine the winner, so don’t forget to use the poll!
Despite the offensive line’s overall struggles, Ratledge stepped in as a first-year starter, worked through typical rookie growing pains, and finished the second half of the season looking like one of the best rookie offensive linemen in football. An imposing presence in the run game, he led the team with nearly 1,100 snaps while starting every game and paving the way for several explosive runs by Jahmyr Gibbs. He more than lived up to the value Brad Holmes found in him as a second-round pick.
Erik Schlitt: Tate Ratledge
Ratledge earned a starting job in training camp and then went on to take 99% of the team’s offensive snaps in 2025. According to PFF, Ratledge only gave up two sacks on the season, earned a 70.3 overall grade from PFF, which ranked him 20th amongst all NFL guards (who played at least half their team’s offensive snaps), while his 73.5 run blocking grade was among the top 10. Ratledge should be a fixture on the offensive line for several years to come.
Jeremy Reisman: Tate Ratledge
While there was no real competitor for Ratledge this year, he’s fully deserving of the award. When many rookies are hitting a wall come November or December, Ratledge was playing some of his best football. From Weeks 12-18, Ratledge posted a 73.1 PFF grade, good for 15th among all NFL guards over that span and just behind All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson (73.6). He will enter 2026 with expectations of being a good, if not great, starter.
Meko Scott: Tate Ratledge
The 2025 rookie class may not have wowed anyone like previous years, but the play from Tate Ratledge gave me a lot of hope for the future. We saw Ratledge start in all 17 games and truly have to learn on the fly as that offensive line went through a lot of change and poor play. However, in spite of that we saw, Ratledge displayed his grittiness by playing through injuries and his improvement throughout the season in the run game, where he received a 73.5 run blocking grade from PFF. There will need to be improvement in his pass protection, but I think we saw enough from the Lions second-round pick to believe he can be a quality piece to this offensive front for years to come.
John Whiticar: Tate Ratledge
I’m expecting a sweep for Ratledge, as there was nobody else in the conversation. I wouldn’t say that Tyleik Williams had a bad season, but I was hoping he would have a larger role by the end of the year. Elsewhere, your candidates are Isaac TeSlaa and his acrobatic-yet-limited catches or Miles Frazier and his 46 snaps. Ratledge not only gets the award by virtue of starting, but he was genuinely good. For a rookie campaign, it was a good starting point.
Ryan Mathews: Tate Ratledge
The Lions’ second-round pick gets the nod for his steadily improving play throughout the season. Ratledge finished the season t-15th among guards in PFF’s EFF metric (97.9)–a PFF signature stat measuring pressure allowed on a per-snap basis with weighting toward sacks allowed–and from Week 12 through the end of the season, he finished t-third (99.0) in that same statistic, allowing just six pressures and zero sacks over the final seven games of 2025.
Brandon Knapp: Tate Ratledge
The only rookie who was considered a starter for the entire season, Ratledge is the clear and obvious choice. He wasn’t perfect but he showed he was just what this team needed on the offensive line and has a bright future ahead of himself.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Mason Barnett #63 of the Athletics pitches in the top of the third inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sutter Health Park on September 26, 2025 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images) | Getty Images
*In an effort to make the nomination voting easier for everyone, I will comment, “NOMINATIONS”, and you may reply to that with your picks and upvote the player you’d like to see on the next nominee list.
After just barely losing last round to outfielder Devin Taylor, right-handed starter prospect Mason Barnett was the clear winner for the 11th-best prospect in the A’s system as voted on by A’s fans. Barnett, the headline return piece from Kansas City the A’s got back in exchange for Lucas Erceg, made his big league debut this past season, getting a quick cup of coffee in the big leagues. The righty didn’t look all that great in Triple-A this past season, his first at that level, and he predictably struggled against higher competition in the big leagues. The team will continue letting him develop in Triple-A to open the year but he’s likely one of the first callups when an injury inevitably pops up. We’ll all be hoping he takes advantage of that chance when it comes.
The next nominee joining the remaining four is right-handed pitcher Gunnar Hoglund. Another far ago top trade return, Hoglund’s professional career has been dogged by seemingly never-ending injuries. After four years climbing the minor league ladder he finally made it to the big leagues this past season after dominating at Triple-A to open the year. And he looked good over his first couple of starts in the big leagues. Unfortunately the injury bug seemed to crop up again as he struggled hard in his final few starts with the A’s, The righty would undergo hip surgery in mid-June, prematurely ending his rookie season. There haven’t been any reports of any sort of setbacks but we’ll be finding out soon if there have been since everyone is reporting in for duty.
The process for this public vote is explained below. Please take a moment to read this before participating:
Please only vote for one. The player with the most votes at the end of voting will win the ranked spot. The remaining four players move on to the next ballot where they are joined by a new nominee.
In the comments, below the official voting, the community will nominate players to be put onto the ballot for the next round. The format for your comment should be “Nomination: Player Name”.
If a prospect is traded, his name will be crossed out, and all other players will be moved up a space. If a prospect is acquired, a special vote will be put up to determine where that player should rank.
The voting continues! Who will be voted as the 12th-best prospect in the A’s system? Here’s a quick rundown on each nominee— the scouting grades (on a 20-to-80 scale) and scouting reports come from MLB Pipeline.
White’s right-handed power is legitimate and he can hit the ball a long way to all fields thanks to his strength and bat speed. He might be known for his home run totals but he’s a better overall hitter than people think, finding the barrel consistently and limiting strikeouts. His knack for contact can lead to him expanding his strike zone, but he doesn’t swing and miss very often.
It will be White’s bat that carries him to the big leagues. He’s a well-below-average runner who likely lacks the range and tools to stick at third base, where he toiled as a sophomore and junior, earning praise for playing through a shoulder injury at LSU in 2023. He’s likely headed to first base long term, which could give the A’s a glut of serious offensive talent between him and first-rounder Nick Kurtz.
At the plate, Morii features a smooth left-handed swing with tremendous balance. His power stands out, as he clubbed 45 home runs as a high schooler. He is considered an advanced hitter with good barrel control. On the mound, his fastball has been clocked as high as 95 mph and sits around 92-93. He also brings a splitter with nasty movement, a true 12-to-6 curveball and a tighter slider with solid bite and depth, though that offering will probably require some fine-tuning. Having only been pitching with regularity for less than two years, Morii’s arm is relatively fresh as he enters the organization.
Morii’s high-octane throwing arm plays well at shortstop, but some evaluators see a possibility of moving to third base as his 6-foot-1 frame fills out. While scouts see Morii’s long-term future in the batter’s box, the A’s plan on giving him every opportunity to succeed as a two-way player, with excitement already building over his impressive physical traits and desire to become one of the next great players out of Japan.
The 6-foot-3 right-hander has gained velocity steadily in his years as a pro and has touched as high as 99 mph this season. He typically sits around 94 mph, working north-south with the pitch while getting most of his whiffs up and to the armside. He played off that with a 76-79 mph curveball that could have more slurvish tendencies, but at its best, it snapped downward to fool batters sitting on the high heat and it had produced a 47 percent miss rate at the time of the trade. He also utilizes an 83-86 mph split-change to miss bats, but it stands out more for its separation than movement profile.
Baez took a major jump in workload but didn’t let his control improvements suffer. That certainly helps his starting chances, as does his 50.1 percent ground-ball rate from 2024. He’s still only 22, but with his place on the roster now set, the A’s (never afraid to move guys quickly) could try to see what it looks like in the big leagues in a relief role to ease him in.
Though Hoglund may never get back the electric stuff he possessed earlier in his career, the A’s were encouraged to see his fastball velocity tick back up to the low-90s. He has also experimented with adding a two-seamer and cutter. His low-80s slider now features more sweeping action and works as his main secondary pitch. He has also improved his low-80s changeup, creating a solid three-pitch mix that is enhanced by a strong ability to consistently throw strikes.
Now three years removed from Tommy John, the A’s are hopeful that Hoglund can develop into a solid back-end rotation piece, especially if he can successfully develop a fourth pitch. The Florida native was regularly going deep into starts in his big league cameo (6.40 ERA with 23 strikeouts to 11 walks across 32 1/3 innings) before going down with the injury and is expected to make a full recovery before the 2026 season.
The A’s were working on some mechanical adjustments with Miller prior to his injury. His electric fastball ticked up to 96 mph in high school and displayed excellent movement down in the zone. The mid-80s slider is a hard breaker and was showing signs of improvement. His low-80s changeup showed some potential as an average third pitch.
There was real excitement within the organization for Miller’s professional debut. His three-pitch mix and large 6-foot-6 frame give off the potential of a workhorse-type starting pitcher in the big leagues. The A’s also loved the competitiveness they saw from him on the mound while scouting him. After an unfortunate delay, he finally got his first opportunity to make an impression this summer.
* * *
Programming Note: Each CPL vote will run for around 48 hours, so don’t delay in making your vote!
Head coach Brian Smith made it clear where the mentality of No. 20 Mizzou wrestling is at with two duals remaining in the regular season – “It’s Big 12 time.” The Tigers advanced to 11-7 after a win against the, at the time, No. 16 West Virginia Mountaineers. The victory was one of their most complete performances of the season against a quality opponent as they extended their win streak to three.
Tiger Style’s lineup from 165lbs to 285lbs swept West Virginia, continuing to be the team’s biggest strength. When you include 157lbs wrestler Teague Travis, who lost by an 8-0 major decision to No. 4 Ty Watters, the top half of the lineup only looks stronger.
The penultimate dual of the regular season is also the final home meet for Mizzou, which means it will be senior night. There are two seniors in the starting lineup in No. 15 Teague Travis (157lbs) and No. 12 Evan Bates (197lbs), who Smith will try to send off in style against the No. 18-ranked Oklahoma Sooners on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
All individual rankings are according to InterMat.
Oklahoma Overview
The Sooners are led by head coach Roger Kish, who is in his third season with the program. In those three seasons, Oklahoma has gone 23-15 overall and 9-13 in Big 12 play. Kish led them to back-to-back seventh-place finishes in the conference in his first two seasons.
This season has a chance to be the Sooners’ best yet in the Kish era, as they’re currently 10-4 overall and 3-3 in Big 12 matches. Oklahoma is 2-1 in its last three duals, the one loss coming against No. 3 Iowa State and one of the wins was an upset against No. 13 Northern Iowa.
In shared matchups with teams that the Tigers have wrestled this season, there were mixed results. Most recently, the Sooners took down Arizona State 31-9, a dual that Mizzou only won 22-17. As mentioned above, Oklahoma downed Northern Iowa 23-18 while the Tigers fell to the Panthers 22-14 on Dec. 14. From those two duals, it would appear that the rivals down south have the advantage, but their respective results against West Virginia skews the data.
Mizzou dominated the Mountaineers in its last dual to a 26-13 win, but suffered a narrow 19-17 defeat against them on Jan. 18. Teams change so much throughout this season because of health and hot stretches, but it appears that both programs are wrestling their best at this very moment in the season.
Looking at the Sooners’ lineup, their strengths benefit the Tigers. Mizzou has one of the best stretches from 157lbs to 285lbs, which is also where the bulk of Oklahoma’s talent is at. The Sooners have seven ranked wrestlers, two in the top 10 of their respective divisions.
The top wrestlers are No. 8 redshirt sophomore Carter Schubert (174lbs), No. 10 senior Brian Soldano (184lbs) and No. 11 senior DJ Parker (197lbs). The strengths of their lineup align with the Tigers.
Key Matches
Regarding injury updates, the 165lbs starter will still be No. 26 redshirt junior J Conway, as it appears graduate Max Mayfield could be out for the rest of the season. It is unclear if the 149lbs starter, No. 22 redshirt senior Joshua Edmond, will wrestle or not. Oklahoma is expected to be with its usual rotation.
With that background information laid out, let’s get into some of the swing matches that could decide the dual result.
174lbs: No. 9 R-JR Cam Steed (MIZ) vs No. 8 R-SO Carter Schubert (OU)
This matchup has already occurred once this season. It was the first tournament of the season, the Tiger Style Invite, where Steed lost to Schubert by a 6-5 decision. Steed struggled mightily in what was his season debut, ending with a 2-2 record. He’s not the same wrestler at this point in the campaign, but neither is Schubert.
Steed is 3-0 in his last three matches, including a victory by fall against No. 14 Brody Conley (WVU) last Friday. Schubert is also undefeated in his last three matches, including decision wins over No. 12 Jared Simma (UNI) and No. 13 MJ Gaitan (ISU).
197lbs: No. 12 R-SR Evan Bates (MIZ) vs No. 11 SR DJ Parker (OU)
Parker didn’t wrestle at the Tiger Style Invite, so this will be the first time the two will wrestle against each other this season. This is a prime opportunity for Bates to earn a marquee win, as he is putting forth some of his best wrestling of late.
Both come into this match undefeated in their team’s last three matches, but Bates has seen tougher competition. He defeated No. 14 Rune Lawrence (WVU) by a 7-4 decision last Friday. Parker hasn’t seen a ranked opponent in a while, but has taken three straight major decision wins.
285: No. 25 R-SO Jarrett Stoner (MIZ) vs No. 21 SR Juan Mora (OU)
These two faced off in the heavyweight championship at the Tiger Style Invite. Mora took that bout by an 11-5 decision.
It’s going to be an uphill battle for Stoner, but this is undoubtedly his last chance to make a statement before the conference tournament. Mora is 2-0 in Oklahoma’s last three duals, both wins coming via tech fall. This is a dual that will likely be decided by single digits, and Stoner could be put in a must-win situation.
Since both rosters have similar strengths, gaining some insurance wins in the lighter weight classes could be a deciding factor in the match’s outcome.
Mizzou trails in the all-time dual history 16-33, and will look for revenge after losing 23-13 in Norman last season.
Report – Oaktree Ready To Make Exception To Inter Milan New Policy To Extend Veteran Midfielder’s Contract
Inter Milan owners Oaktree are reportedly ready to let the club management offer Henrikh Mkhitaryan a new contract.
According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInter1908, the American fund is ready to make an exception to the club’s new policy.
Furthermore, the Armenian midfielder turned 37 in January.
As such, Inter had little interest in offering him a new deal until recently.
However, things have changed.
Inter Milan Owners Oaktree to Offer Henrikh Mkhitaryan New Contract
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Oaktree’s new policy focuses on lowering the squad’s average age.
Additionally, they’re reducing long-term commitments to players in the twilight of their careers.
Therefore, players like Matteo Darmian, Francesco Acerbi, Yann Sommer, and Stefan de Vrij are likely to leave San Siro.
Indeed, they’ll all be out of contract in June, with Inter reluctant to renew their deals.
Yet, that doesn’t apply to Mkhitaryan, who has played a prominent role in Cristian Chivu’s system this season.
Biathlete Julia Simon was triumphant again, winning a gold medal in the 15km individual biathlon race at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
Simon missed only once during her time on the shooting range and rebounded from a penalty in the first standing stage. Her teammate, Lou Jeanmonnot, took home the silver, and Bulgaria’s Lora Hristova won bronze.
But Simon, who also won gold in biathlon mixed relay for France, is fortunate that she was able to compete in the Olympics at all.
Last October, Simon was charged and found guilty of theft and credit card fraud, accused of using the bank card of France teammate Justine Braisaz-Bouchet.
Simon racked up more than €2,000 ($2,300 USD) in online purchases and was given a three-month suspended sentence and fined €15,000 ($17,781.60 USD) by a French court.
"I can't explain it. I don't remember doing it. I can't make sense of it," Simon said during her trial.
The 29-year-old Simon admitted to the crime and apologized for her actions.
She was allowed to compete in Italy after the French ski federation handed her a six-month ban, including a five-month suspension. Simon received a 30,000-euro ($34,600) fine, with 15,000 euros suspended by the ski federation.
Simon won an Olympic silver medal for France in the mixed relay at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games.
Cristiano Ronaldo missed his third consecutive game for Al-Nassr as the Saudi Arabian club defeated Arkadag FC of Turkmenistan 1-0 on Wednesday in the first leg of the round of 16 in the AFC Champions League Two.
Abdullah Al-Hamdan scored the only goal of the game in Asia’s second-tier competition to put Al-Nassr in control ahead of next week’s return match in Riyadh.
Ronaldo — who has yet to win a major trophy since joining Al-Nassr in December 2022 — has been absent amid reports that he is unhappy with how the club is being run by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which also owns Riyadh rival Al-Hilal and Jeddah clubs Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad.
In the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier club tournament, Algeria international Houssem Aouar scored a hat trick as Al-Ittihad routed Al-Gharafa of Qatar 7-0 in the penultimate round of group stage games. The result ensured the two-time champion joined Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal in the round of 16.
The top eight teams from each of the two 12-team groups — based in the west and east regions of Asia — advance to the knockout stage. Al-Wahda of the United Arab Emirates and Iran’s Tractor SC have also secured qualification with a game to spare.
In the East Zone, Australia’s Melbourne City advanced with a 2-1 win at Ulsan HD in South Korea to join Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Vissel Kobe and Machida Zelvia in the second round.
BBC Sport Scotland's Andy Burke has been answering some of your Scottish rugby questions as Gregor Townsend's men prepare to host England after losing their Six Nations opener in Italy.
Graeme asked: Do you think the SRU see what we fans see with Gregor Townsend and Sean Everitt? And if they don't, what are they seeing that we aren't?
Andy answered: It's hard to know what those at the top of Scottish Rugby are seeing because they engage very little with the media, either on or off the record.
When chief executive Alex Williamson did a briefing after Scotland's disappointing autumn, he said "nothing has changed" in terms of the plan to have Townsend leading Scotland into the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Performance director David Nucifora is coming to the end of his contract and seems to have little appetite to make significant changes, as was demonstrated by the baffling contract extension for Edinburgh coach Everitt.
If the SRU bosses cannot now see the strength of feeling among the fans for a change then they either are not paying attention, or they do not care.
Perhaps having given Townsend an extension less than six months ago, Williamson and Nucifora are unwilling to admit they made the wrong call.
A win over England on Saturday will take a little sting out of the situation, but a bad defeat and those fans may well make their feelings clear at Murrayfield.
Liam asked: Where do we go from here? After the two losses in the autumn and in Rome, all these teams know we have no stubbornness about us. First time in a while I have no faith in this team. All that talk after November, to produce that? It's shameful.
Andy answered: Where do Scotland go from here? How many times have we asked that question?
Another loss to England and the fear is this could turn into a disastrous Six Nations. A trip to Cardiff follows in round three and while Wales are poor right now, Steve Tandy will have them fired up and I can't help but feel they have one big performance in them in this championship.
Conversely, wins over England and Wales puts them back in the hunt and restores a bit of positivity.
The problem with this Scotland team is even if they do end England's 12-game winning run, would you be confident they will back it up with three strong performances? No.
The team looks a little lost after the capitulation against Argentina and last weekend's poor showing in Rome.
If they can't muster a bit of fire and ferocity against England then it will only confirm that this coaching regime has run its course.
AC Milan received a major boost on Wednesday, Feb. 11 as Christian Pulisic returned to full team training.
Pulisic has dealt with a number of minor injuries of late, most recently missing Milan's 3-0 win at Bologna on Tuesday, Feb. 3 due to bursitis.
But with his return to group training, the American star now appears on track to return for a match at Pisa on Friday, Feb. 13.
In addition to his recent bout with bursitis, Pulisic has also dealt with a hamstring injury for several months. The Pennsylvania native has started three of the Rossoneri's last seven league matches.
Pulisic is Milan's leading scorer with 10 goals in all competitions, but he hasn't scored or assisted a goal yet in 2026.
The match at Pisa is massive for Milan's title hopes. Max Allegri's men enter the match in second place, trailing Inter by eight points with a game in hand.
With Pisa currently in the relegation zone, picking up full points will be a must for the Rossoneri.
[BBC]Eric Ramsay has lost three and drawn three in his six games in charge of West Brom [Shutterstock]
There is no denying that the start of Eric Ramsay's reign as Albion boss was nothing short of a disaster.
The Baggies picked up one point from the Welshman's first four matches in charge, and the key reason was the volume of goals they were shipping.
In that quartet they conceded a whopping 12 goals, dropping Albion into the relegation zone and decimating their goal difference.
Something had to change, and it has.
Ramsay has taken Albion back to basics in so many ways over the past week.
First, the team has reverted to the more familiar shape the club has largely deployed over the past few seasons under a variety of managers.
The reversion to a familiar 4-2-3-1 has seemed to breed confidence, and the players look far more at home. There has also been a strong focus on stemming the tide of goals against.
Albion were dire defensively away at Portsmouth, conceding 20 shots on goal, an xG against of 2.57 (their worst of the season) and subsequently let in three goals.
However, this has been followed by back-to-back clean sheets against Stoke and Birmingham - the first time Albion have achieved such a feat since September 2024.
Blues created chances, but through sheer will and determination, Albion kept their clean sheet intact.
This effort, desire and determination was all too sadly lacking in the defeats by Norwich and Portsmouth, but there has been a clear shift in mentality and total buy-in from the players since the switch back to a back four.
All of this gives Albion a clear foundation to build on as they go into a massive run of games after the FA Cup weekend.
The Baggies face Coventry at The Hawthorns, and then their next three fixtures are against teams currently sitting in 18th, 23rd and 17th places respectively.
It is a vital run of games against relegation rivals which will likely go a long way to determining their fate.
Of course 0-0s are not going to carry Albion to safety, and it is worth acknowledging the elephant in the room which is they have scored just once in their past five fixtures.
Ramsay's next task is to resolve the issues at the top end of the field so Albion can turn one point into three.
But the first job was to stop the defeats. Albion had lost nine of their past 12 games prior to last Saturday.
Now he has done that, Ramsay has given the players confidence, belief and a platform to go and hopefully win some big games.
As the new league year rapidly approaches, mock drafts are flying left and right, with the Pittsburgh Steelers predicted to go signal-caller in ESPN's latest mock draft.
According to the new mock draft created by ESPN's Field Yates, the Steelers will attempt to find their quarterback of the future with the 21st overall pick in Round 1 — Ty Simpson of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
"…The pros for Simpson? He can throw with pristine accuracy, improvises in the pocket and has enough arm strength to drive the ball downfield," Yates wrote. "The cons? His decision-making waned down the stretch, as he had four interceptions and a combined 62.6% completion percentage in Alabama's final six games.
Regardless, I think the Steelers could take a chance on him here. They might bring back quarterback Aaron Rodgers if he doesn't retire, but that is far from a certainty. And while new head coach Mike McCarthy has praised Will Howard, he was a sixth-round pick last year. It feels unlikely Pittsburgh would completely anchor its future around him."
While it's difficult to fault Yates for predicting the Steelers to address such an important position, there are other, more pressing roster needs that could be filled at Pick No. 21 — such as a top wide receiver.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
Feb 28, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; A general overall view of large helmets at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine Experience at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Seven Texas Longhorns will be among the more than 300 NFL Draft hopefuls in Indianapolis later this month for the 2026 NFL Combine after the invitations were announced on Wednesday.
Guard DJ Campbell, tight end Jack Endries, linebacker Trey Moore, linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., cornerback Malik Muhammad, and safety Michael Taaffe were the seven former Texas players invited to the combine, leaving defensive end Ethan Burke as the notable exclusion.
It wasn’t immediately clear why Burke wasn’t invited after recording 26.5 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, an interception returned for a touchdown, two forced fumbles, and three blocked kicks across 52 games in his Texas career.
The Oklahoma Sooners have a chance to put together one of the largest classes in the 2026 NFL draft after a 10-2 season and College Football Playoff berth. As announced by the NFL on Tuesday morning, 10 Oklahoma Sooners were invited to the NFL draft combine in Indianapolis from February 23 through March 2.
The players invited:
Deion Burks, WR
Jaren Kanak, TE
Febechi Nwaiwu, OL
R Mason Thomas, EDGE
Marvin Jones, Jr. EDGE
Gracen Halton, DT
Damonic Williams, DT
Owen Heinecke, LB
Kendal Daniels, LB
Robert Spears-Jennings, S
This year has a chance to surpass the seven players drafted in 2022. Since then, Oklahoma's draft classes have trended downward while Brent Venables and his staff rebuilt the roster. All 10 players invited to the combine have a chance to be selected. So do players like Jaydn Ott and Derek Simmons.
R Mason Thomas and Gracen Halton are the Sooners likely to be selected the highest due to their athletic traits and production at the collegiate level. Thomas was projected to go at the end of the first round in a recent mock draft from NFL.com. Halton's ability to penetrate and create pass rush pressure from the interior will be incredibly valuable at the NFL level.
Owen Heinecke's eligibility remains a question to monitor. His petition for another season was denied by the NCAA as expected, but there were plans to appeal that decision. As Heinecke awaits the NCAA's decision, he also has to prepare for the NFL draft.
The NFL draft looks like it will be a big weekend for the Oklahoma Sooners, led by these 10 invitees to the Senior Bowl. The NFL draft takes place from April 23 to 25 in Pittsburgh.
Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes, and opinions.You can also follow John on X @john9williams.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joey Porter didn’t hold back against former teammate Ben Roethlisberger. The retired quarterback launched his podcast, “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger,” while Porter has been commonly featured on Cam Heyward’s “Not Just Football” show.
Porter used the platform to call out Roethlisberger. He sent a strong message to the two-time Super Bowl champion, saying he needed to stop talking about “Steelers business.”
“The sht that [Roethlisberger did]… that we don’t talk about is crazy,” Porter said. “Like, out of anybody that should talk, he should never grab a microphone and really talk Steelers business. Because if we’re talking Steeler business, his a** is foul of all foul. Like, the sht that he did is foul of all foul. He’s not a good teammate.
“[I] won a Super Bowl with him. But the person? He’s just not a good teammate. Like, he knows that. Anybody in the Steeler building knows that. But we protected him. Because I’ve only won one Super Bowl, and that was my quarterback. So do I love my quarterback? Yeah, but is he a good person? No.”
Ben Roethlisberger was one of the best quarterbacks of his generation, but as great as he was on the field, controversy followed him off of it. He was accused of sexual assault on two separate occasions in 2009 and 2010. He was not criminally charged for either accusation.
Porter and Roethlisberger played together from 2004-07. They won Super Bowl XL together, but outside of that, it seems that Porter didn’t have the best experience with Roethlisberger outside the facility.
Ben Roethlisberger urged Steelers to hire a external coach after Mike Tomlin’s exit
In the wake of Mike Tomlin’s exit as the Steelers head coach, Ben Roethlisberger exhorted the team not to hire from within. Instead, he wanted them to sign a external coach. The Steelers ended up landing Mike McCarthy, a Pittsburgh native.
They still have questions to answer, especially at the quarterback position. Aaron Rodgers would be open to a return, but just like last season, we might have to wait a couple of months for his decision.
TORONTO — The Detroit Pistons were involved in a brawl with the Charlotte Hornets. A day later on Tuesday, Feb. 10, the NBA handed out suspensions.
The Pistons' top-two centers have been suspended for fighting: Isaiah Stewart is suspended seven games, and Jalen Duren is suspended two games, the league announced Wednesday, hours before the Pistons' final game before the All-Star break against the Toronto Raptors.
On the Hornets' side, Moussa Diabate, a Michigan alumnus, gets a four-game suspension, and Miles Bridges, a Michigan State alumnus, must also sit four games.
All four players were ejected from Monday's game − a 110-104 Pistons win − in middle of the third quarter.
Moussa Diabaté LOST it 😳 Swung on Jalen Duren after the face shove bodies flying, whistles screaming, 4 EJECTIONS. Pure chaos. Pure hoops. pic.twitter.com/OKWeI1SI5V
With 7:09 remaining in the third, Diabate and Duren exchanged words after Diabate delivered a hard foul. Duren shoved Diabate in the face, and Bridges responded by shoving Duren. Diabate then threw a punch at Duren and had to be held back by coaches and teammates as he continued pursuing Duren.
A few moments later, Bridges broke free and swung at Duren. That's when Stewart ran from the bench onto the court to fight Bridges, throwing punches at his head.
The fight happened as the Pistons were pulling away, leading 70-62. The Pistons were on a 23-7 run, dating to the second quarter, to eliminate an eight-point deficit.
"When you go back and watch the film, they ran multiple guys at JD," Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said after the win. "JD and Stew consider themselves to be brothers, and if you run two guys at one guy and you’ve already crossed the line, human instinct tells him to protect his little brother. I hate to see it, again, but that’s the nature of what happened. I hate it for Stew because of the things that are gonna follow, but again, we weren’t the ones that crossed the line tonight and initiated this."
Isaiah Stewart suspension: How many games will he miss?
Stewart has been suspended seven games. Stewart has been the Pistons' top rim protector and is having a career season, averaging 10 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. He was named NBA Defensive Player of the Month for January.
Stewart has been ejected eight times in his NBA career, second-most on the Pistons since 1997-98 behind only Richard Hamilton (11), according to ESPN. Duren's five ejections are fourth-most.
Jalen Duren suspension: How many games will he miss?
Duren has been suspended two games. He is averaging a career-best 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds. He was selected as a first-time All-Star for Sunday's exhibition showcase game in Inglewood, California.
Pistons schedule: Which games will Isaiah Stewart miss?
The Pistons will be shorthanded Wednesday when they visit the Toronto Raptors in their final game before the All-Star break. Here's their upcoming schedule, including the next 12 games over the next month:
All times Eastern.
Wednesday: at Raptors, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 19: at Knicks, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 21: at Bulls, 8 p.m. (Duren eligible)
Feb. 23: vs. Spurs, 7 p.m.
Feb. 25: vs. Thunder, 7 p.m.
Feb. 27: vs. Cavaliers, 7 p.m.
March 1: at Magic, 6 p.m.
March 3: at Cavaliers, 7 p.m. (Stewart eligible)
March 5: at Spurs, 8 p.m.
March 7: vs. Nets, 6 p.m.
March 8: at Heat, 6 p.m.
March 10: at Nets, 7:30 p.m.
Pistons depth chart at center
Duren is the starter and Stewart is the backup, leaving Paul Reed as the lone center on the 15-man roster. Tolu Smith is on a two-way contract and at 6 feet 11, would be primed to see playing time behind Reed.
Paul Reed stats
Reed, 26, is undersized at 6 feet 9 and 210 pounds. He is in his sixth NBA season after being the third-to-last pick, No. 58 overall, in the 2020 NBA Draft out of DePaul by the Philadelphia 76ers.
He's known by the nickname "BBall Paul" thanks to his X account handle.
Reed averages 5.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists over 12.2 minutes per game in 37 games this season for the Pistons. He shoots 59.1% from the field, and has made 9 for 24 3-point attempts (37.5%) this season.
In six starts in 2025-26, Reed averages 26.6 minutes and scores 11.8 points on 57.4% shooting with 8.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists, plus 13 total steals and seven blocks.
Reed's career numbers in the NBA:
297 games.
34 starts.
12.5 minutes per game.
Five points per game.
55.4% field-goal shooting.
68.6 free-throw shooting.
Four rebounds per game.
0.9 assists per game.
0.8 steals per game.
0.7 blocks per game.
0.7 turnovers per game.
Paul Reed stats in playoffs
Reed has appeared in 37 playoff games in the NBA, making two starts in 2023 replacing an injured Joel Embiid. Reed has averaged 3.3 points on 54.7% shooting and 3.9 rebounds over 10.9 minutes per playoff appearance.
Last season, Reed played in Games 2-6 in the Pistons' first-round series against the New York Knicks, after Stewart was unable to play. Reed averaged 2.8 points (5-for-8 shooting, 4-for-6 on free throws), three rebounds and a steal in 10.6 minutes in the series.
Paul Reed contract with Pistons
Reed signed a two-year, $10.9 million contract with the Pistons last summer. He makes $5.3 million for 2025-26. The second year at $5.6 million is nonguaranteed until Jan. 10, 2027, according to the sports salary website Spotrac.
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TORONTO — The Detroit Pistons were involved in a brawl with the Charlotte Hornets. A day later on Tuesday, Feb. 10, the NBA handed out suspensions.
The Pistons' top-two centers have been suspended for fighting: Isaiah Stewart is suspended seven games, and Jalen Duren is suspended two games, the league announced Wednesday, hours before the Pistons' final game before the All-Star break against the Toronto Raptors.
On the Hornets' side, Moussa Diabate, a Michigan alumnus, gets a four-game suspension, and Miles Bridges, a Michigan State alumnus, must also sit four games.
All four players were ejected from Monday's game − a 110-104 Pistons win − in middle of the third quarter.
Moussa Diabaté LOST it 😳 Swung on Jalen Duren after the face shove bodies flying, whistles screaming, 4 EJECTIONS. Pure chaos. Pure hoops. pic.twitter.com/OKWeI1SI5V
With 7:09 remaining in the third, Diabate and Duren exchanged words after Diabate delivered a hard foul. Duren shoved Diabate in the face, and Bridges responded by shoving Duren. Diabate then threw a punch at Duren and had to be held back by coaches and teammates as he continued pursuing Duren.
A few moments later, Bridges broke free and swung at Duren. That's when Stewart ran from the bench onto the court to fight Bridges, throwing punches at his head.
The fight happened as the Pistons were pulling away, leading 70-62. The Pistons were on a 23-7 run, dating to the second quarter, to eliminate an eight-point deficit.
"When you go back and watch the film, they ran multiple guys at JD," Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said after the win. "JD and Stew consider themselves to be brothers, and if you run two guys at one guy and you’ve already crossed the line, human instinct tells him to protect his little brother. I hate to see it, again, but that’s the nature of what happened. I hate it for Stew because of the things that are gonna follow, but again, we weren’t the ones that crossed the line tonight and initiated this."
Isaiah Stewart suspension: How many games will he miss?
Stewart has been suspended seven games. Stewart has been the Pistons' top rim protector and is having a career season, averaging 10 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. He was named NBA Defensive Player of the Month for January.
Stewart has been ejected eight times in his NBA career, second-most on the Pistons since 1997-98 behind only Richard Hamilton (11), according to ESPN. Duren's five ejections are fourth-most.
Jalen Duren suspension: How many games will he miss?
Duren has been suspended two games. He is averaging a career-best 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds. He was selected as a first-time All-Star for Sunday's exhibition showcase game in Inglewood, California.
Pistons schedule: Which games will Isaiah Stewart miss?
The Pistons will be shorthanded Wednesday when they visit the Toronto Raptors in their final game before the All-Star break. Here's their upcoming schedule, including the next 12 games over the next month:
All times Eastern.
Wednesday: at Raptors, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 19: at Knicks, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 21: at Bulls, 8 p.m. (Duren eligible)
Feb. 23: vs. Spurs, 7 p.m.
Feb. 25: vs. Thunder, 7 p.m.
Feb. 27: vs. Cavaliers, 7 p.m.
March 1: at Magic, 6 p.m.
March 3: at Cavaliers, 7 p.m. (Stewart eligible)
March 5: at Spurs, 8 p.m.
March 7: vs. Nets, 6 p.m.
March 8: at Heat, 6 p.m.
March 10: at Nets, 7:30 p.m.
Pistons depth chart at center
Duren is the starter and Stewart is the backup, leaving Paul Reed as the lone center on the 15-man roster. Tolu Smith is on a two-way contract and at 6 feet 11, is primed to see playing time behind Reed.
Paul Reed stats
Reed, 26, takes over as the starting center for the next two games with Duren suspended. Reed is undersized for the position at 6-9 and 210 pounds. He is in his sixth NBA season after being the third-to-last pick, No. 58 overall, in the 2020 NBA Draft out of DePaul by the Philadelphia 76ers.
He's known by the nickname "BBall Paul" thanks to his X account handle.
Reed averages 5.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists over 12.2 minutes per game in 37 games this season for the Pistons. He shoots 59.1% from the field, and has made 9 for 24 3-point attempts (37.5%) this season.
In six starts in 2025-26, Reed averages 26.6 minutes and scores 11.8 points on 57.4% shooting with 8.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists, plus 13 total steals and seven blocks.
Reed's career numbers in the NBA:
297 games.
34 starts.
12.5 minutes per game.
Five points per game.
55.4% field-goal shooting.
68.6 free-throw shooting.
Four rebounds per game.
0.9 assists per game.
0.8 steals per game.
0.7 blocks per game.
0.7 turnovers per game.
Paul Reed stats in playoffs
Reed has appeared in 37 playoff games in the NBA, making two starts in 2023 replacing an injured Joel Embiid. Reed has averaged 3.3 points on 54.7% shooting and 3.9 rebounds over 10.9 minutes per playoff appearance.
Last season, Reed played in Games 2-6 in the Pistons' first-round series against the New York Knicks, after Stewart was unable to play. Reed averaged 2.8 points (5-for-8 shooting, 4-for-6 on free throws), three rebounds and a steal in 10.6 minutes in the series.
Paul Reed contract with Pistons
Reed signed a two-year, $10.9 million contract with the Pistons last summer. He makes $5.3 million for 2025-26. The second year at $5.6 million is nonguaranteed until Jan. 10, 2027, according to the sports salary website Spotrac.
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NBA All-Star Weekend is here, and fans can tune in to all their favorite events on NBC and Peacock. The festivities tip off on Friday with the Rising Stars Challenge at 9:00 PM ET and HBCU Classic at 11:00 PM ET.
NBA All-Star Saturday features the State Farm 3-Point Contest, Kia Shooting Stars and the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest all tipping off at 5:00 PM ET.
The weekend closes with the 75th All-Star Game on Sunday, broken into four mini-games beginning at 5:00 PM ET.
See below for additional information on the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest and how to watch all of the other exciting events featured on NBC and Peacock. Peacock will feature 100 regular-season NBA games throughout the course of the 2025-2026 season.
The second-year man out of Arizona has averaged 7.6 minutes per game across 21 appearances for the Heat this season. He's seen most of his playing time with the G League's Sioux Falls Skyforce.
Jase Richardson, Orlando Magic
The rookie first-rounder has logged 12.2 minutes per game, and he scored a career-best 20 points against the Washington Wizards on January 6. Richardson is the son of two-time Slam Dunk Contest winner Jason Richardson.
Carter Bryant, San Antonio Spurs
The first-year man from Arizona is averaging 3.3 points and 1.9 rebounds across 9.3 minutes per game, but he had the best game of his career in Tuesday's win over the Lakers, going for 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, a steal and three three-pointers across 27 minutes.
Jaxson Hayes, Los Angeles Lakers
Hayes is a regular part of LA's rotation, logging 17.3 minutes per game with six starts. A lethal lob threat, he ranks 19th in the Association with 75 dunks this season.
Youngest Dunk Contest winner: Kobe Bryant, 18 years old (1997)
Notable Slam Dunk Contests
1986 - Spud Webb Elevates
Webb was a late sub for Michael Jordan, and the 5'7 guard answered the call with a shocking display of bounce to claim the win over teammate Dominique Wilkins.
1988 - His Airness Takes Flight
The most famous dunk of Jordan's illustrious career came at the 1988 Slam Dunk Contest when he took down Dominique Wilkins with a slam from the free throw line that earned him a perfect 50.
2000 - Vinsanity Unleashes
Widely regarded as the best Dunk Contest of all time, Vince Carter unleashed a series of jaw-dropping jams to defeat Tracy McGrady and Steve Francis. After nailing a between-the-legs windmill, he famously declared, "it's over."
2008 - Superman and the Cupcake
Dwight Howard donned his Superman cape for one of the Dunk Contest's most iconic finishes. He defeated Gerald Green, who blew out the candle on a cupcake placed on the rim.
2016 - LaVine vs. Gordon
The only contest that can hold a candle to the 2000 event featured a barrage of spectacular dunks from two of the NBA's most athletic finishers. LaVine narrowly won after a remarkable back-and-forth with Gordon.
Peacock NBA Monday will stream up to three Monday night games each week throughout the regular season. Coast 2 Coast Tuesday presents doubleheaders on Tuesday nights throughout the regular season on NBC and Peacock. On most Tuesdays, an 8 p.m. ET game will be on NBC stations in the Eastern and Central time zones, and an 8 p.m. PT game on NBC stations in the Pacific and often Mountain time zones.
Check local listings each week. Both games will stream live nationwide on Peacock. NBC Sports will launch Sunday Night Basketball across NBC and Peacock on Feb. 1, 2026. For a full schedule of the NBA on NBC and Peacock, click here.
How to sign up for Peacock:
Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You’ll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC & Bravo hits—Peacock is here for whatever you’re in the mood for.
NBA on NBC 2025-26 Schedule
Click here to see the full list of NBA games that will air on NBC and Peacock this season.
The Philadelphia Phillies have turned their franchise around in the last few years, making the postseason for the first time in a while during the 2022 season, and since then, continually made the postseason year after year.
But, while they've made the postseason, have gotten incredible pitching performances and MVP-type offensive seasons during that time, the Phillies have also had some bad defense, especially in the outfield.
According to Baseball Savant's Fielding Run Value, the Phillies have two players on their roster who, since the 2018 season, are the worst two fielders in all of Major League Baseball.
Phillies have 2 worst fielders in MLB on roster in same outfield
Nick Castellanos, the Phillies' long-time right fielder, has a -90 Fielding Run Value. It's a staggeringly terrible number, as Castellanos, since 2018, has been the worst fielder in Major League Baseball by a wide margin.
The second worst FRV? Only a -57 FRV. The difference between the two is -33 Fielding Run Value, which is the same difference as the 2nd-worst fielder to the 40th-worst fielder in MLB since 2018.
Speaking of that 2nd-worst fielding in Major League Baseball since 2018, according to Fielding Run Value, who is it? None other than Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies newly minted $150 million designated hitter.
If fans ever wondered why Schwarber is a designated hitter-only, this statistic should make it clear. His defense is behind only Castellanos for worst in MLB over the last eight years.
Fielding Run Value is only one metric, but even Baseball Savant's Outs Above Average doesn't favor either. Castellanos is still last with -75 OAA, while Kyle Schwarber is at a -65 OAA, the bottom two marks for all outfielders since 2016.
The Phillies had signed the two worst fielders in Major League Baseball history since Statcast came into play. While they both were tasked with outfield work, that's changing.
Schwarber is a DH only now, and his incredible offense more than makes up for the poor defense if he needs to play the outfield for a game or two.
Castellanos is going to be traded or cut before the 2026 regular season begins. He won't be on the roster this upcoming season, and the Phillies will, instead, get much better defensive play in right field from Adolis Garcia.
It only took two games, but I’ve seen enough. Where do I sign the petition to do away with court storming?
Three days after UNC fans embarrassingly stormed the court (twice!) after beating Duke -- their most hated rival who they should always expect to beat at home -- Miami fans stormed the court Tuesday after beating UNC, an ACC foe who was only favored by one point and now sits behind the Hurricanes in the standings.
If you think I'm here this morning to laugh at the Tar Heels for how quickly karma caught up to them... well, you're right, I am laughing. But I'll get to them later. I'm also here to say court storming needs to end. Technically, the practice is already against ACC rules. But the schools need to do more to stop it. We just saw three of them in four days between three teams separated by 3.5 games in the same conference. I know I’ve been in a football-induced coma the last three months since the start of college basketball season, but is this the standard now?
Forget about court storming being dangerous for a moment, or a Duke staffer getting bloodied during UNC's bum rush Saturday — though both things are true — court storming needs to end because it apparently doesn't hold much meaning anymore. Forgive my ignorance, but I thought these things were reserved for the unlikeliest of wins. Games where the home team has close to no chance, which wasn't remotely the case in either of these games.
I didn’t think UNC was even allowed to court-storm, what with 21 Final Four appearances and six national championships to the school’s name. I know times have been rough the last few years, but that was embarrassing behavior for a blue blood. UNC earned every bit of that $50,000 fine. This is like when the dab went viral about 10 years ago and older people started doing it. Suddenly, it wasn't cool anymore. At least Kansas still has shame, restraining from rushing the court after handing No. 1 Arizona its first loss of the season Monday.
Call me old school, but court stormings don't hit the way they used to. Let’s get ahead of the inevitable catastrophic injury from a storming that never should've happened and end it now.
Cheating Olympian's ex breaks silence
You've surely heard by now of the Norwegian Olympian who confessed to cheating on his girlfriend after winning bronze in the biathlon. If not, Charles Curtis has a good recap here of the stunning and unnecessary admission by Sturla Holm Laegreid.
Today, it's time to hear from the girlfriend... or ex-girlfriend to be more accurate.
Manchester United's winning streak was snapped at four games yesterday, meaning the fan refusing to get a haircut until they win five straight will have to wait a little longer, though the team is very aware of the fan's pledge.
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Lacrosse season is back, folks. After a busy first few days of the season, not much has shifted in the rankings yet, although that will certainly change in a hurry given certain developments in Evanston on Monday night. For now, let’s take a look at where things stand in the first in-season IWLCA Coaches Poll, which was released after Sunday’s contests.
1. North Carolina (1-0, 0-0 ACC)
Movement: none
Last Week: 19-11 win at No. 21 James Madison
This Week: at No. 13 Syracuse
The reigning national champions are back, and they look as scary as ever. The loss of Ashley Humphrey will certainly dampen the Tar Heels’ prospects this season, but they can take solace in the fact that reigning Tewaaraton Award winner Chloe Humphrey has plenty of time remaining in Chapel Hill. The younger Humphrey had seven points in the season opener against JMU, and UNC cruised to a victory, leading 16-6 after three quarters of play.
2. Northwestern (1-1, 0-0 B1G)
Movement: none
Last Week: 20-12 win at No. 3 Boston College, 10-9 loss vs. Colorado
This Week: vs. No. 20 Army, vs. Central Michigan
Well, that was quite the two-game stretch to open the Wildcats’ season. NU began by looking every bit like its national-championship contending self in its season opener, blowing out Boston College on the road behind huge offensive performances from Madison Taylor, Aditi Foster and others. Then, the ‘Cats mystifyingly lost their home opener to unranked Colorado, committing a whopping 18 turnovers and simply playing out of sync despite the incredible offensive talent they possess. Lots of blame can go around for a shocking upset defeat, but most of all, reigning Tewaaraton finalist Maddie Epke really struggled on Monday, committing four turnovers and failing to record a single shot. Epke is extremely talented and certainly has better days in front of her, but regardless, the Wildcats’ loss will hurt their Week Two ranking, serving as a wake-up call for this squad going forward.
3. Boston College (0-1, 0-0 ACC)
Movement: none
Last Week: 20-12 loss vs. No. 2 Northwestern
This Week: vs. No. 16 Notre Dame
After the losses of Rachel Clark and others, the Eagles have had to retool quickly, and they weren’t able to find their footing against an elite Wildcat squad in their season opener. BC couldn’t contain the multi-pronged Northwestern attack, suffering a tough loss to begin its season against the same NU team that ended its 2025 year with a dramatic Final Four comeback win. Boston College will certainly remain as a top contender this season, but improvement in its next contest against a ranked Notre Dame squad is paramount.
4. Stanford (1-0, 0-0 ACC)
Movement: up one spot
Last Week: 23-7 win at UC Davis
This Week: at No. 9 Clemson, at Vanderbilt
The Cardinal managed to leapfrog Florida in the latest edition of the IWLCA coaches poll, making a statement with a blowout victory over UC Davis on Saturday. Stanford had a whopping four players put up hat tricks, showcasing its depth against an Aggies team that let up 10 goals in the second quarter alone. The Cardinal are looking dangerous, and if they can manage to take down Clemson this week, they should be well-positioned as the biggest threat among teams that did not qualify for the Final Four a year ago.
5. Florida (0-0, 0-0 Big 12)
Movement: down one spot
Last Week: none
This Week: vs. No. 17 Michigan, at No. 19 Loyola Maryland
Florida got docked through no fault of its own in the coaches poll after Stanford’s blowout victory over UC Davis, as the Gators’ expected season opener against Loyola Maryland was postponed until Feb. 17. Now, Florida has a tough week ahead, facing off against two ranked teams. The Gators will certainly enter 2026 with a vengeance after 2025’s blowout 20-4 Final Four loss at the hands of the Tar Heels.
6. Maryland (1-0, 0-0 B1G)
Movement: up one spot
Last Week: 9-5 win at No. 13 Syracuse
This Week: vs. No. 12 Virginia
The Terrapins won in a dogfight at the JMA Wireless Dome on Friday, holding onto a 6-1 halftime advantage to come through with a massive road win. Five goals from junior attacker Lauren LaPointe proved huge, but junior goalkeeper JJ Suriano was the MVP of Maryland’s season-opening victory. Suriano dominated to the tune of a whopping 16 saves, putting up a stellar .762 save percentage against a ranked foe. UVA poses another tough ACC test for the Terps, who will look to get some more offensive variety going to reduce their reliance on LaPointe and stellar goalie play.
7. Princeton (0-0, 0-0 Ivy League)
Movement: down one spot
Last Week: none
This Week: none
Similarly to Florida, Princeton dropped a spot in the rankings through no fault of its own, as the Tigers did not play a game in the season’s opening days. Unlike the Gators, Princeton doesn’t have a game this week either, as its season opener doesn’t come until a matchup against Loyola Maryland on Feb. 21. The Tigers will look to build on an impressive Ivy League championship and Elite Eight run from a season ago.
8. Johns Hopkins (1-0, 0-0 B1G)
Movement: none
Last Week: 17-7 win at Liberty
This Week: at No. 19 Loyola Maryland, at No. 14 Duke
The Blue Jays took care of business in their season opener behind eight goals from Ava Angello, who tied her best career single-game scoring mark and single-handedly outscored the Flames. Two goals apiece from Taylor Hoss, Laurel Gonzalez and Lacey Downey were key, and Johns Hopkins’ defense was also stellar, holding Liberty to 19 shots and 10 shots on goal. The Blue Jays are looking like they could be dangerous in the Big Ten, and if they can win their three upcoming ranked road matchups against Loyola Maryland, Duke and Penn, they’ll have a truly stacked early-season resume.
9. Clemson (2-0, 0-0 ACC)
Movement: up three spots
Last Week: 20-5 win vs. Vanderbilt, 18-1 win vs. Furman
This Week: vs. No. 4 Stanford, at Queens
The Tigers surged into the top 10 after obliterating Vanderbilt with 13 first-half goals and 20 tallies in all, including five from Brooke Goldstein. The coaches poll gave Clemson major credit for its dominance, but the Tigers weren’t satisfied. They nearly shut out Furman on Tuesday, allowing just eight total shots all game alongside big offensive performances from Alexa Spallina (six goals) and Regan Byrne (four goals). Clemson looked scary (albeit against lighter competition) in its first two games, and now, the question becomes whether the Tigers can survive their first true test in an early-season ACC opener against the Cardinal.
10. Navy (1-0, 0-0 Patriot League)
Movement: up six spots
Last Week: 12-10 win at No. 12 Virginia
This Week: vs. Villanova
How about the Midshipmen with an early-season upset? On Friday, Navy marched into Charlottesville, Va., and pulled out a gritty 12-10 victory over the Cavaliers, riding the momentum established by its 16-7 draw control advantage. The Midshipmen also outshot UVA 33-21, generating multi-goal games from four different players as a result. Navy is a balanced team, and although its next three games are all against unranked opponents, its Feb. 28 home tilt against Florida should be an electric watch where the Gators could very well be on upset alert.
Just missed the cut: Penn (opens season on Feb. 14 vs. Drexel), Virginia (lost to Navy), Syracuse (lost to Maryland)
Myles Garrett made the trip to Italy to support his girlfriend, Chloe Kim, in the women's halfpipe Olympic competition.
Action got underway for the gold medalist with qualifying runs on Wednesday. Naturally, Kim put up the top score, and the Cleveland Browns superstar was there cheering her on.
In fact, Garrett had an incredible view, which he shared on his Instagram story:
Myles Garrett had a great view of @ChloeKim’s top qualifying run on the halfpipe in Livigno.
Kim will go for gold on Thursday. The final will get underway at 1:30 p.m. ET.
Garrett will surely be there again, of course. He's coming off a season in which he set the NFL's single-season sacks record, so he knows what big achievements feel like.
For Kim, who is also the reigning world champion, she'll try to prove that she remains the absolute best at what she does, and Garrett will be right alongside her, with a great view, cheering her on.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
A prominent NFL mock draft brings a “curveball” pick by the New York Giants with their first-round selection that the organization should seriously consider.
The 2025 NY Giants campaign was another miserable one. After 18 weeks, the team finished with a 4-13 record, a year after ending their previous season with a 3-14 mark. It is why head coach Brian Daboll was fired in November, and the organization was very aggressive to hire one-time Super Bowl winner John Harbaugh to replace him.
Although the Baltimore Ravens fired Harbaugh last month, he is still one of the most-respected coaches in the league after posting a 180-113 record during his 18 years in Baltimore. His arrival has created a huge amount of excitement about what the NY Giants can do in 2026 and beyond. However, if they are going to succeed in the Harbaugh era, they must start hitting on NFL Draft picks.
The franchise has another big opportunity in April when they are on the clock at No. 5 in Round 1 of the event. Furthermore, they don’t need to use the selection on a quarterback since they think they have a long-term option in 2025 first-rounder Jaxson Dart. Meaning the NY Giants can take the best player available.
Since the season ended, most mock drafts have the G-Men taking a wide receiver, an offensive tackle, and even top cornerbacks in Round 1. However, ESPN NFL expert Field Yates offered a different option in his brand new mock draft for the outlet.
“This is my first curveball, as many early mock drafts have linked the Giants to a wide receiver or offensive tackle in this spot,” Yates wrote. “Those are completely understandable, especially if Wan’Dale Robinson and/or Jermaine Eluemunor depart in free agency. But Downs has my attention as the first pick of the John Harbaugh era.”
Why the NY Giants should use their first pick in 2026 on Caleb Downs
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Many football experts believe the Ohio State star is the most NFL-ready player among the top prospects this year. He was the undisputed top star and leader of a defense many felt was the best in the country in 2025. What makes him special beyond his physical gifts is his very high football IQ and his unique versatility at the position.
The NY Giants defense, despite some high-level talent, was not good last season. Bringing in a stabilizing figure in the secondary who can be used in multiple ways could be a great help to the talented pass rushers the team has up front, including Brian Burns.
However, if that doesn’t sway you, let Yates explain why Downs is a very likely pick for a head coach who built his success in Baltimore off of consistently good defenses.
“Perhaps no current coach better understands the value of top-flight safety play, as Harbaugh coached Ed Reed and Kyle Hamilton in Baltimore,” he wrote. “While the Giants have starters in Jevon Holland and Tyler Nubin, Downs has the upside to change an entire defense as a force multiplier with his deep range and in-the-box skills.”
There are now three names seemingly in the running to succeed Roberto De Zerbi as manager of Olympique de Marseille, as per a report from L’Équipe.
De Zerbi’s fate was decided in the early hours of Wednesday morning, with the Italian’s 18-month stint at OM coming to an end by mutual consent. He leaves the club fourth in Ligue 1 and still in the Coupe de France, although a 3-0 defeat against Club Brugge put an abrupt end to their UEFA Champions League campaign.
Habib Beye and Sergio Conceicao are two names being considered by Marseille, whilst L’Équipe understands that Éric Chelle is also in the mix. The Malian national, who played professionally in France, has been offered to OM, the publication understands.
He most recently lead Nigeria to a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), beating Egypt on penalties in the third-place play-off, following their elimination at the hands of Morocco, also on penalties.
Manchester City boss Andree Jeglertz has called for the introduction of video assistant referee (VAR) technology in the Women's Super League
WSL leaders City saw their 13-game winning streak ended by a 1-0 defeat by Arsenal on Sunday, but remain eight points clear at the top of the table.
City felt Gunners midfielder Mariona Caldentey should have been sent off in the second half for bringing down Lauren Hemp just outside the penalty area with only goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar to beat.
Referee Abigail Byrne judged Caldentey won the ball and waved play on.
"I've seen pictures from different angles and for me, it's very clear it is the wrong decision," Jeglertz said before his side's WSL match against Leicester City on Friday (13 February, 19:00 GMT).
"We can't do anything about it now. As long as the players are working to develop, I'm pretty sure the referees are working to develop. I'm sure in the future we will develop the game in that way.
"I think VAR should be [introduced]. I know there are some challenges with that, but it should be in our league because it's the most fair way for these situations."
Arsenal manager Renee Slegers called for the introduction of VAR in November after her side had an equaliser against Chelsea incorrectly disallowed for handball.
Swerve Strickland at a Super Bowl party - Miikka Skaffari/Getty Images
AEW has never lacked for stables during its short history, especially these days when the Don Callis Family has enough members to spin-off into another stable. Last week on "AEW Dynamite," the promotion seemed to hint that a stable could be making a return, when Prince Nana was spotted carrying an Embassy towel while he and Swerve Strickland were being interviewed backstage.
During a Fightful Select Answers Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp was asked whether the Embassy towel was simply a nod to Nana's past, or if it was a sign that he and Strickland could be bringing the stable back. While he had no definitive information, Sapp strongly believes it is a sign that the stable could be returning, citing the pride Nana and Strickland had in the Embassy's history and the Embassy robe originally worn by the late Jimmy Rave (and later adopted by Strickland), as well as previous statements from Nana regarding the group's importance.
First founded by Nana in early 2004, the Embassy quickly became one of the top heel factions in Ring of Honor; though initially disbanding in 2006, Nana would revive the group on a few occasions, most notably in 2009 and 2011. Among the names to make up The Embassy over its several incarnations are Rave, Alex Shelley, Abyss, Angelina Love, Jade Chung, Xavier, Claudio Castagnoli, Shawn Daivari, Erick Stevens, Necro Butcher, Rhino, Michin, and newest AEW signee Tommaso Ciampa.
After seemingly disbanding for good in 2017, Nana revived the stable again at ROH Death Before 2022, building the stable around Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun, and Toa Liona; nearly a year later, the group merged with Strickland's Mogul Affiliates to form the Mogul Embassy. The group would continue on for another year before Cage, Kaun, and Liona turned on Strickland and Nana, effectively ending the group.
Expectations have a way of sharpening disappointment. Few teams felt that edge more acutely in 2025 than the Baltimore Ravens. A season that opened with Super Bowl aspirations ended not with a playoff run, but with unease. Questions lingered about direction, durability, and how a roster built to contend somehow finished on the outside looking in.
This is typically the time of year when franchises recalibrate. They take stock, compare themselves to teams that rose and teams that fell, and try to locate where they truly stand. After all, only one of the NFL's 32 teams achieves its ultimate goal. Fourteen make the postseason. Eighteen stay home. Baltimore, painfully, landed in the latter group.
"Baltimore's priority is reaching a new contract with Lamar Jackson and getting the two-time NFL MVP back on track on the field. The first issue is reducing Jackson's $74.5 million salary cap number, and owner Steve Bisciotti spoke to Jackson about the urgency to create more cap room before the start of free agency in March. Then, Baltimore's new coaching staff will look to build a scheme around Jackson, who is coming off 2,549 passing yards and 21 touchdowns -- both of which are his lowest since 2022. The good news: Jackson has won NFL MVP the past two times Baltimore hired a new offensive coordinator."
It's a sober assessment, one that seems respectful of the talent, but it's also one that is shaped by results. The Ravens aren't being dismissed, but they're no longer being presumed either. A ranking of fourteenth reflects where Baltimore lives right now. They're caught between what they believe they should be and what they have actually proven.
We all remember how the season ended. Tyler Loop’s final field-goal attempt sailed wide right, and with it went every remaining hope of a playoff run, a hope that was drowned out by the cheers of a satisfied Pittsburgh Steelers fan base.
Pittsburgh, of course, would go on to lose in the Wild Card Round... again. That offered some consolation, though nothing close to what a deep Ravens run would have meant.
Yes, this roster felt capable of postseason noise. Yes, the arrival of a new coaching staff has injected fresh optimism. But Lamar Jackson’s contract situation remains unresolved, and redemption has been deferred, not delivered.
The Ravens' 30th anniversary season didn't go according to plan. Now, they face a familiar but urgent truth: there’s nowhere to go but up in 2026. And for what it's worth, if you're looking for perspective, the Cincinnati Bengals, Steelers, and Cleveland Browns ranked 16th, 21st, and dead last, respectively.
The Ravens may have fallen short, but they're still very much in the fight. Fourteenth isn't a ceiling or a condemnation. In this sense, it’s more of a challenge, and in Baltimore, challenges are supposed to serve as motivation.
The Jaguars will be without a first-round pick in this year's draft after moving up for Travis Hunter last April.
However, GM James Gladstone still maintains quite a bit of flexibility entering the 2026 NFL draft. In total, the Jaguars have 11 picks, giving Gladstone the ability to move around the draft board.
In addition to that, four of those picks are in the top 100, providing the Jaguars with the opportunity to add some immediate impact players.
Given the current construction of the roster, this feels like an offseason where the Jaguars could focus more heavily on the defensive side of the football.
With help from Pro Football Focus' 2026 NFL draft big board, here are the top draft prospects from Indiana.
First, it was Francisco Lindor. Then, it was Jackson Holliday. And then? It was Corbin Carroll. All three big names suffered hamate injuries as MLB spring training kicked off in Florida and Arizona.
So... what's going on here? Is it time for "HamateGate" headlines?
Let's start with the answer to the question you have: What is a hamate bone? It's small bone in the wrist that's got a hook near the pinky finger. There have been plenty of hamate injuries in the past that were fixed by surgery... but three in the first couple of days of spring training? Huh?
For those unfamiliar, the hamate bone — which could cause Corbin Carroll, Francisco Lindor and Jackson Holliday to miss Opening Day — is a small, hook-shaped bone on the palm, just underneath the pinky, that is particularly susceptible to breaking. While the recovery is typically…
What could be going on here? There's no official word, but could it be related to something these players worked on in the offseason? Specifically with swinging the bat?
AMD’s next-generation “Medusa Halo” CPUs will be gaming MONSTERS AMD’s Strix Halo processors bring together strong Zen 5 CPU cores with a powerful RDNA 3.5 GPU. While “Gorgon Halo” will refresh this range as the Ryzen AI Max 400 series, AMD has something much bigger planned with “Medusa Halo”. Rumour has it that this chip […]
Blizzard president Johanna Faries describes the studio’s relationship with Xbox as highly empowered, emphasizing support, communication, and creative agency following Microsoft’s acquisition.
In an exclusive interview, Blizzard president Johanna Faries confirms “exciting conversations” about potential TV adaptations, but stresses that any project must meet the company’s high creative standards.
Honeycomb's more affordable Bravo Throttle Quadrant Lite cuts down on some of its controls, leaving novice players with the essentials at an entry-level price.
Blizzard President Johanna Faries on the studio's 35th anniversary, its "highly empowered" future with Xbox, and keeping Battle.net a "shining star" for all players.
MSI has released MSI Afterburner 4.6.7 Beta 2, adding support for its upcoming GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning series and introducing new PSU-level protection features tied to 16-pin (12VHPWR / 12V-2×6) power connectors. The headline addition is integration with MSI's GPU Safeguard+ system, available on select MEG Ai1x00 and MPG Ai1x00TS power supplies. A new PSU.dll plugin enables telemetry monitoring directly inside Afterburner, including voltage, current, power, temperature, efficiency, and fan speed. Supported MPG units can also report per-pin current data for 12VHPWR and 12V-2×6 connectors. If overcurrent or current imbalance is detected on the 16-pin connector, the app will load reduce the GPU power limit (typically to 75% on NVIDIA GPUs, 25% on AMD GPUs) and display an on-screen warning, allowing users to inspect the cable connection. Sound alerts can also be enabled.
Beyond PSU integration, Afterburner 4.6.7 Beta 2 updates the Voltage/Frequency curve editor with zoom and pan controls, adjustable node sizes, and improved curve manipulation with preserved per-point offsets. While adding support for upcoming RTX 5090 Lightning cards in advance is nice, the more notable addition is the monitoring-to-action pipeline that links PSU connector telemetry directly to automatic GPU power reduction in case of a fault.
Microsoft recently announced a potentially major change in how Windows handles applications and software. The update comes with a new security model for the operating system. According to Microsoft Distinguished Engineer Logan Iyer, the change is expected to significantly improve security and trust across the Windows ecosystem.
After acquiring a $1.5 billion stake in Epic Games in 2024, Disney began outlining plans to build what it calls a "persistent social universe" where users can play, watch, shop, and engage with its many properties. That vision – still light on specifics – could soon include the debut of...
RED NOW streamlines short-form content creation with one-click video generation for TikTok and other platforms. Paste a link to start and produce ready-to-post clips without complex editing. The platform supports formats like vlogs, product marketing, reviews, tutorials, and more. RED NOW also outputs structured shot lists and timing guides, helping creators plan and execute content faster while maintaining a consistent style and workflow.
Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 is shaping up to be a season of extraordinary journeys for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and family fun. With new itineraries across Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and Southeast Asia, this season promises to bring the magic of Disney to the high seas like never before. From first-time cruisers to seasoned Disney fans, these voyages are designed to offer an immersive experience for everyone.
European Elegance and Scenic Adventures Await
This summer, Disney Cruise Line will introduce its Disney Wish ship to Europe, offering sailings ranging from three to ten nights. Guests will explore historic coastal towns and breathtaking natural landscapes, including the medieval streets of Croatia, the cultural gems of northern Italy, and Norway’s striking fjords.
Travellers will enjoy a blend of cultural immersion and relaxation. Whether wandering through Italian piazzas, sampling local delicacies, or marveling at Norway’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, European cruises offer something for every age. These itineraries are ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a mix of sightseeing and serenity.
Alaska’s Majestic Wilderness Reimagined
Alaska continues to be a highlight of Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027. Departing from Vancouver, ships will offer seven-night journeys through stunning coastal landscapes, glaciers, and fjords. Families can engage in guided excursions that reveal the region’s wildlife, indigenous culture, and pristine wilderness.
Alaska’s voyages combine adventure and tranquility. From whale watching to exploring charming port towns, these trips provide a rare opportunity to experience some of the world’s most scenic and untouched environments. This is a perfect choice for travellers looking for both excitement and the chance to unwind amidst nature.
Caribbean and Bahamian Escapes
The Caribbean and Bahamas remain favourites for summer cruising, with Disney Cruise Line offering an array of itineraries to suit short getaways or longer journeys. Ships will sail from Florida to private islands, where families can enjoy sun-drenched beaches, water sports, and themed entertainment.
Short three- and four-night trips provide quick escapes, while longer seven- to ten-night itineraries allow for immersive exploration. These tropical cruises are designed to balance adventure with relaxation, combining pristine beaches, local culture, and Disney’s signature entertainment at sea.
Fort Lauderdale and Southeast Asia Opportunities
Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 also expands its reach beyond traditional US routes. Fort Lauderdale will serve as a hub for Caribbean and Bahamian sailings, offering options for both short and longer stays. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian voyages will depart from Singapore, providing families across the region with the chance to experience Disney magic on shorter three- and four-night trips.
These options open new possibilities for global travellers who want Disney experiences without extensive transoceanic travel. They cater to both international tourists and regional visitors seeking family-friendly cruises with cultural insight.
Themed Cruises Add Extra Excitement
Adding a unique twist, Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 will feature themed voyages that bring beloved characters and stories to life. Guests can enjoy Marvel-themed adventures, engaging in heroic activities and interactive experiences suitable for all ages. Pixar-themed cruises offer immersive storytelling, playful activities, and character interactions that delight both children and adults.
Themed sailings enhance the magic, combining Disney entertainment with destination-focused travel. These journeys are highly sought after and provide a memorable way to experience cruise travel beyond typical sightseeing.
Planning Your Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027
Early planning is crucial for securing the best cabins and itineraries. Families and travellers are encouraged to consider route lengths, destinations, and themed options when booking. Cruises are designed to accommodate a range of interests, from adventure seekers to those preferring relaxation and luxury.
Whether exploring the historic coasts of Europe, the glaciers of Alaska, the tropical waters of the Caribbean, or the cultural richness of Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 offers a voyage for everyone. These cruises deliver world-class entertainment, immersive experiences, and scenic wonders that make travel planning exciting and rewarding.
Travellers worldwide can look forward to a season of unforgettable memories at sea. Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 ensures that family vacations, cultural exploration, and leisurely escapes are combined with the magic and comfort that Disney is known for.
Baltic Ground Services’ subsidiary Gulfstream Oil has extended its aviation fuel supply cooperation with Mavi Gök Airlines (MGA) at Riga Airport (RIX) for another year beginning in April 2026. The renewed agreement continues Gulfstream Oil’s role as the fuel supplier for Mavi Gök’s aircraft at the Latvian hub, supporting the airline’s operations and capacity planning in the Baltic region. The extension reflects ongoing confidence in the operational relationship and underlines Riga Airport’s importance as a regional connection point for scheduled and charter flights.
Introduction In a strategic development for aviation operations at Riga Airport, Gulfstream Oil, the aviation fuel supply unit of Baltic Ground Services (BGS), has formally renewed its fuel supply cooperation with Mavi Gök Airlines for an additional year from April 2026. The agreement ensures that Gulfstream Oil will continue providing fuelling services to Mavi Gök’s fleet at one of the Baltic region’s busiest international airports. While not issued through a government agency, the renewal has been confirmed by official corporate releases from BGS and aviation industry reporting. The ongoing cooperation underscores the importance of reliable fuelling infrastructure to maintain airline schedules, passenger connectivity and operational continuity for carriers serving Riga as a hub.
What the Extended Cooperation Involves The fuel supply cooperation covers the provisioning of Jet A‑1 aviation fuel to Mavi Gök Airlines’ aircraft at Riga Airport (RIX), facilitating the airline’s flight operations through the Baltic gateway. Gulfstream Oil, operating under the broader BGS organisation which provides ground handling, fuel supply and logistics services, will continue to deliver fuel, technical support and coordination with airport operations for scheduled flights and charters. The extension has been confirmed to run for another year beginning in April 2026, following the initial cooperation that began several years earlier.
Riga Airport’s Role and Regional Context Riga Airport is Latvia’s largest airport and a significant regional hub for passenger and cargo flights connecting the Baltic states with Western Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East and beyond. Reliable aviation fuel supply is a core part of airport operations, enabling airlines to serve both scheduled and charter routes. Since Gulfstream Oil is a key fuel supplier at Riga, the renewed agreement with Mavi Gök Airlines reinforces the airport’s infrastructure stability and the airline’s commitment to maintaining its route network through this gateway.
Advantages for Travellers Improved Operational Reliability Ensuring a stable aviation fuel supply at Riga Airport helps minimise the risk of last‑minute flight delays or cancellations caused by fuel shortages. Passengers benefit from greater confidence in scheduled departure and arrival times, which supports smoother itinerary planning for both leisure and business travel.
Sustained Connectivity Through Riga The continued cooperation between Gulfstream Oil and Mavi Gök Airlines supports sustained air services that leverage Riga as a hub. Travellers connecting through Latvia can expect continuity in route options, particularly to regional destinations that rely on stable ground services.
Support for Seasonal and Charter Services Renewed fuel supply arrangements are especially important during peak travel periods and for charter operations. Passengers on charter flights heading to popular European destinations can expect dependable fuelling services, reducing operational disruptions during busy travel windows.
Operational Efficiency for Airlines By securing its fuel supply partner for another year, Mavi Gök Airlines can focus on service quality and network planning rather than logistical uncertainties, which can translate into more reliable service for passengers.
Industry Confidence and Growth Signals The extension signals confidence in Riga Airport’s infrastructure and the continued growth of aviation services in the Baltic region, which can contribute to passenger traffic stability and potential new route development.
Disadvantages and Traveller Considerations Limited Direct Consumer Impact Fuel supply agreements are a backend operational matter that travellers do not experience directly; while they support flight reliability, the renewal does not guarantee new routes or lower fares.
Airline Operational Risks Still Exist While fuel supply arrangements are secured, other factors such as crew shortages, weather disruptions, and air traffic control constraints can still affect flight schedules, which travellers should be aware of.
Potential Cost Pass‑Through Though fuel supply stability is beneficial, fluctuations in aviation fuel market prices could be reflected in future airfare costs, affecting passenger travel budgets.
Niche Market Focus Mavi Gök Airlines operates a selective route network; the renewal supports continued operations but does not necessarily expand consumer choice on a broader scale unless accompanied by new route announcements.
Conclusion The extension of aviation fuel supply cooperation between Gulfstream Oil and Mavi Gök Airlines at Riga Airport highlights the importance of secure and consistent fuelling operations to support airline schedules in the Baltic region. While the agreement itself is a backend logistics arrangement, its continuation contributes to operational reliability that benefits travellers through reduced risk of fuel‑related disruptions. For passengers, this development supports sustained connectivity via Riga’s airport infrastructure, particularly for regional and charter services. At a strategic level, the extension signals confidence in the airport’s capabilities and underlines the critical role of ground services in maintaining robust travel networks in Northern Europe.
In South Africa, agritourism is becoming popular. Visitors help local farmers and get to enjoy the diversity of life on the farm. Since the agricultural sector is a vital part of South Africa’s economy, farmers are starting to include agritourism as part of their business to connect with the community.
Agritourism is the combination of farming and tourism, giving travelers the opportunity to experience life on a farm. There are farm stays, wine tastings, berry picking, farm-to-table dining, and wellness retreats. Tourists get to appreciate the land and the story of the food.
Growing Interest in Agritourism
The agritourism sector has seen rapid growth worldwide, with a compound annual growth rate forecasted at 11.5% from 2022 to 2030. South Africa is catching up with this global trend, contributing to the expansion of the sector. In 2024, the local agritourism market generated $180.6 million and is set to grow to $295.5 million by 2030.
This growth reflects the increasing appeal of agritourism as a viable and valuable opportunity for farmers. By offering new experiences, farmers can showcase their produce, share their stories, and engage visitors in ways that go beyond traditional farming activities.
Factors Fueling Agritourism Growth
Several key factors are contributing to the rise of agritourism in South Africa:
Demand for Authentic Experiences: There is a growing demand from city dwellers for nature-based, peaceful getaways that offer a slower pace of life. Agritourism satisfies this demand, offering a return to nature and farm life.
Post-Pandemic Travel Trends: The COVID-19 pandemic shifted travel preferences toward local, outdoor, and wellness-focused experiences. This trend continues to influence the growth of agritourism.
Sustainability and Wellness: As travelers become more conscious of environmental issues, they are increasingly drawn to experiences that emphasize sustainability and wellness. Agritourism fits this demand by promoting eco-friendly practices and local produce.
Economic Diversification: Farmers are exploring agritourism as a way to supplement their income from traditional farming activities. This diversification allows them to thrive even as they face the financial pressures of rising input costs.
Rural Development: Agritourism is recognized by both government and local municipalities as a tool for rural revitalization. It has the potential to create jobs, boost local economies, and foster sustainable development.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide
Agritourism is more than just an economic opportunity; it also acts as a bridge between urban and rural experiences. It helps foster an appreciation for agriculture and educates visitors about food production and its role in ensuring food security. By participating in agritourism, visitors not only support local farmers but also learn about the intricacies of farming, from growing crops to raising livestock.
Opportunities for Farmers
For farmers, agritourism offers an opportunity to diversify their income and reduce reliance on traditional farming. In addition to enhancing farm incomes, it provides a chance to build stronger relationships with customers, create brand loyalty, and promote their products directly to consumers.
Farmers can also enhance their farm’s brand image through storytelling, giving visitors insight into the agricultural process. With agritourism, farmers can turn their land into a source of education, entertainment, and empowerment for both themselves and their visitors.
Expanding Beyond the Western Cape
While the Western Cape remains the primary hub for agritourism, renowned for its wine estates and scenic farm stays, more regions in South Africa are becoming popular agritourism destinations. Provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal are seeing growing interest from travelers, especially near nature reserves and along popular tourist routes. These areas offer untapped potential for farmers to diversify and cater to the growing demand for agritourism experiences.
The rise in interest outside the Western Cape suggests that South Africa’s agritourism market is expanding rapidly. Farmers in these regions are exploring new ways to connect with visitors and create unique, memorable experiences that cater to the evolving needs of the tourism sector.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite its potential, agritourism faces several challenges, particularly in rural areas. Inadequate infrastructure, including poor roads, lack of public transport, and inadequate signage, can make it difficult for visitors to access farms. Additionally, many farmers struggle to secure the necessary funds to improve facilities and enhance the visitor experience.
To overcome these challenges, the government and municipalities are encouraged to invest in rural infrastructure. Programs and initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and support for agritourism businesses can help unlock the full potential of this sector.
Nedbank Agriculture is already supporting farmers with funding to develop facilities, implement modern technology, and train specialized staff to provide a high-quality experience for visitors. Through such initiatives, agritourism can flourish, benefiting both farmers and the communities they support.
Environmental Awareness and Conservation
Agritourism also promotes environmental stewardship. Many farms involved in agritourism prioritize sustainability, biodiversity, and responsible land use. This aligns with broader environmental goals and contributes to a greener future for South Africa’s agricultural landscape. Farmers are increasingly embracing eco-friendly practices, using their platforms to raise awareness about environmental conservation.
By participating in agritourism, travelers are also supporting these green initiatives and helping preserve the land they visit. This creates a more sustainable and responsible tourism model that benefits both the environment and the economy.
Conclusion
For South African farmers, agritourism is much more than an economical opportunity; it’s a means for them to showcase their craft and creates a more personal relationship with customers. With continued expansion of the agritourism sector, the gap between urban and rural can finally close. Stable job rural job opportunities can also be a result of the growing agritourism sector. The future of agritourism in South Africa is incredibly optimistic for both farmers and tourists.
Europe cruise travel is rapidly growing in popularity among global travellers. Cruising allows visitors to explore multiple countries without the hassle of moving between hotels every day. Passengers can enjoy stunning coastlines, historic cities, and cultural experiences, all while staying on a floating hotel. For first-time travellers, understanding the nuances of cruising can transform the journey from ordinary to extraordinary. A well-planned Europe cruise trip balances sea comfort, shore exploration, and cultural immersion. This travel guide provides expert insights for travellers seeking a seamless, unforgettable Mediterranean adventure.
Preparing for Your Cruise: Smart Planning Matters
The first step in any Europe cruise adventure is careful planning. Arriving at the embarkation city at least a day before departure helps avoid stress caused by flight delays. Passengers should ensure travel documents, including passports and visas, are up to date. It’s wise to research the cruise line’s policies, including boarding procedures and medical protocols. Packing strategically with essentials, comfortable shoes, and layered clothing ensures readiness for both sea days and city explorations. By preparing thoughtfully, travellers can enjoy a smooth start to their European cruise and focus on the experiences ahead.
Life Onboard: Comfort, Entertainment, and Routine
Cruise ships offer a variety of amenities designed to keep passengers comfortable and entertained. From pools, spas, and gyms to evening shows and lounges, the onboard environment allows for relaxation during days at sea. Cabins serve as a home base, reducing the need to repack for each stop. Daily routines, such as enjoying breakfast at a preferred café or attending scheduled activities, provide a sense of familiarity. Yet, this Europe cruise travel guide encourages travellers to balance routine with adventure by taking advantage of shore excursions and local cultural experiences to make the most of every destination.
Exploring Ports: Key Destinations and Insights
European cruise itineraries often include iconic ports in Italy, Spain, France, and Greece. Cities such as Barcelona, Naples, Marseille, and Santorini provide rich historical, culinary, and scenic experiences. Travellers are advised to research each port’s attractions and distances from the dock, as some may require transport like buses or taxis to reach city centres. Joining organised local tours or exploring independently can enhance the experience, depending on personal preference. Planning ahead ensures that each stop is maximised for sightseeing, cultural immersion, and authentic local interactions, making every day on a European cruise rewarding.
Cultural and Culinary Experiences
One of the highlights of a European cruise is engaging with local culture. Travellers are encouraged to visit markets, museums, and historic districts, sampling local dishes and learning about traditions. Italian cuisine, French seafood, and Spanish tapas offer memorable culinary experiences. Engaging with local communities and learning a few basic phrases enhances interactions and creates meaningful memories. A thoughtful Europe cruise traveller respects cultural norms, helping preserve local heritage while enjoying authentic experiences ashore. Balancing sightseeing with immersive cultural engagement is essential for a well-rounded cruise adventure.
Practical Tips for First-Time Cruise Travellers
Effective planning is crucial for a successful cruise. Travellers should always carry identification and cruise cards, check port logistics, and pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Researching each port’s transport options, operating hours, and highlights reduces stress. Travellers are also advised to prioritise a few meaningful excursions over trying to do everything. Checking weather forecasts and packing accordingly ensures comfort during unpredictable Mediterranean climates. Being organised, informed, and adaptable allows first-time cruise passengers to fully enjoy both sea days and port visits, making their European cruise an unforgettable journey.
Sustainable Travel and Responsible Tourism
Modern European cruises are increasingly focused on sustainability. Travellers are encouraged to respect local environments, avoid single-use plastics, and follow heritage site regulations. Exploring on foot, supporting local businesses, and engaging responsibly with communities enhances the travel experience while reducing negative impacts. This Europe cruise travel guide highlights that mindful tourism benefits both visitors and the destinations they explore. Sustainable practices ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy Europe’s iconic ports and natural beauty, making ethical travel a priority for responsible cruisers.
Conclusion: Why a European Cruise Is a Must-Do Experience
Europe cruise travel combines convenience, culture, and comfort, offering a unique way to explore multiple countries in one journey. Travellers can enjoy the luxury of a floating hotel, immerse themselves in history and cuisine, and create memories that last a lifetime. With proper planning, an open mind, and a sense of adventure, a Mediterranean cruise can become a transformative travel experience. This guide provides the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate ports, plan excursions, and make the most of life onboard. Europe cruises are not just holidays; they are gateways to discovery, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Thailand Joins Netherlands, Germany, UAE, Ireland, Vietnam, Qatar, and More Nations in Unleashing Powerful Tourism Growth with Groundbreaking Digital Campaigns, Cutting-Edge Marketing Strategies, and Unstoppable Strategic Partnerships for 2026. As the global tourism industry continues its recovery in 2025 and 2026, several nations are spearheading innovative initiatives to attract international travelers, with digital campaigns, creative marketing strategies, and strategic partnerships playing pivotal roles. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, collaborations with major international platforms, and tailored offers, countries like Thailand, the Netherlands, Germany, and others are positioning themselves to capture a larger share of the global tourism market, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability in a highly competitive travel landscape.
As 2026 rapidly approaches, tourism boards around the world are strategizing and implementing groundbreaking campaigns to reignite their countries’ travel sectors. From digital innovation to powerful partnerships, these nations are ready to welcome tourists with open arms, using new tools and tailored experiences that cater to modern travel demands. Among these trailblazers is Thailand, joining forces with several other countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, the UAE, Ireland, Vietnam, and Qatar in a bold attempt to revamp global tourism. Here’s a look at how each of these nations is driving the tourism sector forward through unique, attention-grabbing campaigns.
Thailand: Leading the Charge with Revolutionary Digital Tourism Campaigns
Thailand’s tourism board, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has launched an ambitious campaign called Zhong Tai Yi Jia Qin, aimed at boosting Chinese tourism through strategic partnerships with major digital platforms such as Qunar.com, Fliggy, Klook, and Tongcheng. With China being one of the largest outbound travel markets, Thailand’s focus on connecting with Chinese travelers through innovative digital solutions and strategic marketing initiatives has already shown significant success.
One of the standout features of the campaign is the Holiday Air-Tel Scheme, which bundles flights, hotel accommodations, and shopping discounts through Thai Airways and King Power. This scheme is specifically designed to target peak travel periods like the Chinese New Year, Qingming Festival, and other important Chinese holidays, ensuring that Thailand stays at the forefront of the global tourism stage. These digital-first campaigns are designed to build long-lasting relationships with Chinese tourists, solidifying Thailand’s position as the top destination in Southeast Asia.
Netherlands: Collaborative Efforts to Revitalize European Tourism
The Netherlands, along with other European countries such as Germany, Belgium, and Austria, is tapping into its rich cultural heritage and unique offerings to attract tourists post-pandemic. The country’s new tourism campaign focuses on leveraging digital storytelling and cross-border partnerships to enhance visitor experience and increase foot traffic. This initiative is closely tied to the European Union’s broader strategy of revitalizing travel within Europe and targeting key global markets, particularly North America, Asia, and the Middle East.
With the launch of several joint marketing campaigns with other EU countries, the Netherlands is making it easier for international visitors to explore more than just the well-known Amsterdam canals. By promoting not only cities but also hidden gems like Groningen, Haarlem, and the Dutch countryside, the Netherlands aims to diversify its tourism offerings and keep visitors engaged year-round.
Germany: Harnessing Digital Innovation to Boost Global Visitors
Germany is on the fast track to tourism recovery, thanks to its innovative digital campaigns and creative marketing strategies. One of the standout features of Germany’s tourism efforts is the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to give potential visitors an immersive preview of the country’s attractions. From exploring the castles of Bavaria to navigating the streets of Berlin, Germany is bringing its top destinations directly to digital screens worldwide.
In addition to VR and AR, Germany’s national tourism office is teaming up with global influencers and travel bloggers to showcase the country’s hidden gems through authentic storytelling. With new visa facilitation programs and special offers for international tourists, Germany is gearing up to welcome even more visitors in 2026, making it a major player in Europe’s tourism revival.
UAE: A Bold Push for International Visitors with ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ Campaign
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a different route by focusing on its luxury tourism offerings. The “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign is all about attracting affluent tourists from Europe, Asia, and North America, with a focus on Dubai’s luxurious hotels, high-end shopping malls, and world-class events. This strategic push is designed to showcase the UAE as an ultimate winter escape, particularly for travelers seeking a unique blend of luxury and adventure.
Beyond winter tourism, the UAE is also investing in sustainable tourism initiatives to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly travel. Through green initiatives, cultural experiences, and partnerships with international airlines, the UAE aims to expand its tourism industry and position itself as a leader in luxury and sustainable travel for the coming years.
Ireland: Digital Campaigns and Immersive Experiences for the Modern Traveler
Ireland is doubling down on digital marketing campaigns to target travelers in the U.S., UK, and Australia, encouraging them to visit the country’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. With a new emphasis on social media influencers and travel bloggers, Ireland’s tourism board is bringing fresh, engaging content to younger travelers who seek authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The country’s digital campaigns are also focused on tailored experiences such as culinary tours, music festivals, and adventure travel, all of which can be customized through online platforms. Ireland is aiming to position itself as the go-to destination for both nature lovers and those looking for a deep cultural connection.
Vietnam: Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Travel Take Center Stage
Vietnam has made significant strides in promoting eco-tourism, wellness travel, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) tourism. With the launch of 79 tailored tourism initiatives, the country is using a combination of digital platforms and community-based tourism to attract environmentally-conscious visitors. From UNESCO heritage sites to its breathtaking coastlines, Vietnam is promoting its sustainable travel credentials to travelers who prioritize responsible tourism.
The country’s 2026 tourism roadmap includes collaborations with international airlines and eco-focused influencers to bolster the brand of Vietnam as a sustainable tourism leader. With its rich cultural and natural offerings, Vietnam is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for travelers looking for an authentic, eco-friendly vacation.
Qatar: Influencer-Led Marketing Drives Tourism During Key Seasons
Qatar has embraced a new influencer-led tourism strategy, capitalizing on the power of social media to promote its luxury tourism, sports events, and cultural festivals. Qatar’s tourism board is focusing on seasonal campaigns, particularly around major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and Qatar National Day, using influencers to give a personal and relatable perspective on what to expect from the destination.
The country’s focus on digital storytelling, coupled with targeted seasonal offers for high-end travelers, is making Qatar a top contender in the luxury tourism market. With exclusive packages and VIP experiences, Qatar is positioning itself as a world-class destination for both cultural exploration and high-end leisure.
Other Nations Driving Tourism in 2025–2026
Several other nations are also driving tourism growth with innovative marketing campaigns and tourism strategies:
Norway: Known for its dramatic landscapes and sustainability efforts, Norway is increasing its focus on eco-tourism, offering travelers the chance to connect with nature through glamping and remote retreats.
Spain: The Spanish Tourism Office is using interactive digital campaigns to target new visitors, particularly those interested in gastronomy tourism, beach holidays, and cultural heritage.
France: With its new #MonParis campaign, France is pushing its lesser-known destinations alongside traditional favorites like Paris, aiming to highlight regional culture and off-the-beaten-path activities.
Japan: With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, Japan is launching a multi-phased tourism strategy to attract international visitors to both its urban centers and remote regions, showcasing its blend of tradition and modernity.
As countries worldwide embark on innovative tourism campaigns, the focus is clear: digital innovation, sustainability, and unique, tailored travel experiences are at the forefront of the tourism recovery strategy for 2025–2026. Whether through digital campaigns, strategic partnerships, or luxury offerings, nations like Thailand, Netherlands, Germany, UAE, Ireland, Vietnam, and Qatar are positioning themselves as the top travel destinations for modern tourists. By aligning their marketing strategies with changing consumer behaviors and travel trends, these countries are setting the stage for a tourism boom in the years to come.
Thailand Joins Netherlands, Germany, UAE, Ireland, Vietnam, Qatar, and More Nations in Unleashing Powerful Tourism Growth with Groundbreaking Digital Campaigns, Cutting-Edge Marketing Strategies, and Unstoppable Strategic Partnerships for 2026. These nations are using innovative digital campaigns and strategic partnerships to attract international visitors and drive tourism growth in 2025 and 2026, ensuring they stay competitive in a rapidly evolving travel market.
Through creative and impactful campaigns, these nations are ensuring that they are not only attracting visitors in the short term but also building long-term, sustainable tourism industries that will continue to thrive well into the future.
Russia’s aviation regulator Rosaviatsia has confirmed that two major Russian carriers, Rossiya Airlines (part of Aeroflot) and Nordwind Airlines, will temporarily suspend commercial flights to Cuba after a severe shortage of aviation fuel on the island made it impossible to reliably operate scheduled services. The suspension follows warnings from Cuban authorities that jet fuel supplies will be unavailable for international flights, prompting Russia to prioritise repatriation of tourists and adjust flight operations until fuel availability improves.
Introduction Several Russian airlines have informed civil aviation authorities they will halt flights to Cuba due to an acute shortage of jet fuel (Jet A‑1) at Cuban airports, forcing airlines to either cancel services or operate limited return flights for repatriation before suspending operations. Government agencies and aviation regulators have noted that the fuel crisis, driven by broader geopolitical pressures and energy shortages on the Caribbean island, has left Cuba unable to guarantee refuelling for inbound and outbound flights, compelling carriers to pause commercial operations until the situation stabilises. The move potentially disrupts travel plans for thousands of tourists and highlights vulnerabilities in international aviation operations when key infrastructure and fuel supplies become constrained.
Government and Aviation Authority Confirmation According to Rosaviatsia, Russia’s federal aviation authority, Russian carriers will suspend scheduled flights to Cuba after ensuring outbound repatriation of tourists currently on the island. The announcement identified Rossiya Airlines and Nordwind Airlines as the carriers adjusting operations in response to Cuba’s inability to provide aviation fuel. Rosaviatsia’s statement indicated that services will remain suspended “until the situation changes,” with Russian and Cuban authorities actively seeking alternative ways to resume flights in both directions once fuel availability is confirmed.
Fuel Crisis in Cuba: Official Notices and International Context Cuba’s aviation authorities have officially warned international airlines via a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that jet fuel supplies at all major airports on the island will be unavailable from early February through at least mid‑March, affecting hubs such as José Martí International Airport (Havana), Varadero, Santa Clara, Camagüey and others. The crisis has compelled airlines such as Air Canada to suspend services due to the lack of guaranteed fuel on arrival, while some carriers explore technical stops in other countries for refuelling. International transport and energy analysts attribute the fuel shortage to disruptions in oil deliveries following geopolitical pressures, which have cut off traditional fuel supply chains to Cuba.
Operational Adjustments and Tourist Repatriation Before the suspension, Russian carriers planned to operate return flights from Havana and Varadero to Moscow to repatriate passengers. Several thousand Russian tourists were on the island when the crisis intensified, and carriers are prioritising bringing them home safely. Aviation authorities noted that scheduled departures to Cuba might be limited or cancelled while inbound flights are not advised, given the inability to refuel on the island. Negotiations between Russian and Cuban officials are underway to assess possible fuel supply arrangements and contingency plans for future operations.
Advantages for Travellers Enhanced Safety and Reliability The suspension of flights in response to a fuel shortage ensures that airlines do not operate services without guaranteed refuelling, reducing the risk of in‑flight diversions, delays or emergencies due to inadequate fuel reserves. Certainty in Repatriation Measures With airlines prioritising outbound flights to bring tourists home, travellers currently on the island receive a clear plan for evacuation, which helps avoid uncertainty and logistical challenges during the crisis. Focused Operational Planning The pause in flights allows carriers to reassess schedules and routes, adjusting operations to ensure that future services only resume once fuel supplies and ground operations can be guaranteed, increasing long‑term reliability.
Disadvantages and Traveller Considerations Service Disruption and Cancellation Passengers planning trips to Cuba face cancellations or indefinite suspensions of flights, which can affect holiday plans and incur additional accommodation or repatriation expenses. Increased Travel Costs Alternative arrangements, such as rerouting via third countries for refuelling or booking flights with different carriers, may raise travel costs and complexity for passengers. Uncertainty in Future Operations The fuel crisis introduces ambiguity about when flights will resume, making planning future travel to Cuba unpredictable and potentially forcing travellers to choose alternative destinations. Impact on Island Tourism The broader tourism infrastructure in Cuba is under strain as energy shortages extend beyond aviation fuel, leading to reduced hotel operations and logistical support for visitors.
Conclusion The temporary suspension of Russian commercial flights to Cuba amid an aviation fuel shortage marks a significant disruption in travel and international airline operations. With Rosaviatsia and carriers coordinating repatriation efforts, travellers on the island are being brought home as airlines pause services until fuel availability improves. For passengers, the suspension emphasises the importance of confirmed ground support and fuel access in international aviation; while safety and operational certainty are prioritised, travel plans face notable uncertainty and potential adjustments. As Cuba’s energy crisis continues to affect aviation infrastructure, travellers and airlines alike must navigate evolving conditions, reshaping travel patterns in the region.
Disney Cruise Line is set to make history in 2027 by sending its Disney Wish ship to Europe. This marks the first time a Wish-class vessel will operate European itineraries. Travellers from all over the world can now experience a magical blend of themed entertainment and European culture. The Disney Wish will sail from Southampton in the UK, Barcelona in Spain, and Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy. Cruises will range from three to ten nights, giving families and travellers the flexibility to explore Europe on short getaways or longer journeys.
With this new deployment, Disney Cruise Line is redefining European cruising. Passengers can expect scenic coastlines, historic cities, and immersive onboard experiences, all while enjoying the comforts of a world-class cruise ship.
Southampton: The Perfect Gateway to Northern Europe
Southampton is a historic port city on England’s southern coast. It will serve as the main departure point for Northern European Disney Wish itineraries. From here, travellers can embark on cruises visiting stunning fjords, charming harbours, and vibrant cities in Scandinavia and the Netherlands.
Southampton offers excellent transport connections, making it easy for international tourists to reach before boarding. While on board, passengers can enjoy family entertainment, themed dining, and interactive activities designed for all ages. The city itself is a great place to explore before the cruise, with its maritime history, cultural sites, and modern amenities, creating the perfect start to a European adventure.
Barcelona: Mediterranean Culture at Your Fingertips
Barcelona is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and an ideal starting point for Mediterranean cruises. Before setting sail, visitors can explore iconic landmarks, such as Gaudí’s architectural wonders, enjoy sunny beaches, and sample the city’s renowned culinary delights.
Disney Wish sailings from Barcelona will visit Mediterranean hotspots including Italian ports, French Riviera towns, and Spanish islands. Each stop offers a unique cultural experience—from historic towns to picturesque coastlines. Families can combine the magic of Disney onboard with sightseeing onshore, creating a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Civitavecchia, the cruise port near Rome, offers travellers easy access to Italy’s rich heritage. Passengers can visit the eternal city’s iconic landmarks, explore ancient ruins, and savour authentic Italian cuisine. The Disney Wish will also sail to other Mediterranean destinations, such as the Greek islands and Adriatic ports in Croatia.
These destinations provide breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and family-friendly experiences. Cruisers can enjoy guided tours, beach days, and local traditions, making every stop an unforgettable part of their journey. This combination of cultural immersion and Disney magic ensures a European holiday unlike any other.
Onboard Experiences That Make Every Voyage Magical
The Disney Wish is designed for travellers of all ages. Families will enjoy themed entertainment days, interactive activities, character meet-and-greets, and specially curated dining experiences. Adults can relax in quiet lounges, indulge in fine dining, or enjoy spa services.
Every day at sea is filled with entertainment and opportunities for fun, ensuring that travellers feel immersed in Disney’s unique storytelling. The ship’s family-friendly facilities, pools, and clubs create a memorable holiday for everyone onboard.
Why Disney Wish Europe 2027 Should Be on Your Bucket List
The Disney Wish Europe 2027 deployment is a landmark moment in cruise tourism. For travellers seeking a mix of European sightseeing and themed family entertainment, this is a unique opportunity. From Norwegian fjords to Italian cities and Croatian coastlines, passengers can explore Europe in comfort and style.
Booking early is recommended, as this historic European deployment is expected to attract travellers worldwide. Families, couples, and solo adventurers alike can enjoy the mix of magic, culture, and luxury that Disney offers. With sailings from Southampton, Barcelona, and Rome, it’s never been easier to turn a European cruise into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The Disney Wish Europe 2027 season promises unforgettable memories, breathtaking destinations, and magical experiences. Whether you want to stroll ancient streets, relax on Mediterranean beaches, or experience Disney’s world-class entertainment at sea, this cruise season is a must for any global traveller seeking adventure and family-friendly fun.
Amora Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment of Tamer Habib as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), a decision that underscores the company’s commitment to growth and operational excellence in the competitive hospitality industry. Habib brings over 30 years of industry expertise to the role, having held influential positions at some of the world’s leading hotel brands, including Marriott, Hyatt, Intercontinental and Stamford.
Extensive Experience in the Hospitality Industry
Habib’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Amora Hotels and Resorts, a company known for its strong values and proud Thai heritage. Having served as the Vice President of Operations for Amora previously, Habib’s deep knowledge of the brand’s operations will be key to strengthening its global presence. His extensive career trajectory in the hospitality sector positions him as a dynamic leader, well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the brand.
Throughout his career, Habib has honed his expertise in hotel management, strategic planning and global expansion. His leadership has played a pivotal role in driving operational efficiency and enhancing guest experiences, which are essential to maintaining the competitive edge in the hospitality industry. At Amora Hotels and Resorts, Habib is poised to bring a wealth of knowledge and a strategic vision focused on expanding the company’s footprint, particularly in Australia and Asia.
Focus on Global Expansion and Operational Efficiency
As the new COO, Habib will be at the helm of Amora Hotels and Resorts’ ambitious plans for growth. A primary focus of his role will be driving the brand’s expansion in Australia’s gateway cities, with a strategic outlook that envisions significant growth over the next five years. The company’s portfolio, which currently includes properties in major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide, is set to grow further, solidifying Amora’s presence in key markets across the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition to regional expansion, Habib’s leadership will prioritize operational efficiency, ensuring that Amora Hotels and Resorts continues to meet the ever-evolving demands of guests. By reinforcing the group’s core values—Accountability, Service Excellence, Innovation and Collaboration—Habib aims to foster a culture of excellence that empowers employees and delivers high-quality experiences to guests.
A Clear Vision for the Future
In his statement, Habib expressed his excitement about the new challenges and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of working closely with the management and operational teams to achieve the company’s growth objectives. By staying true to Amora’s founding values, he intends to enhance the operational performance across the group, ensuring alignment with the company’s long-term goals. Habib’s leadership philosophy includes a strong focus on empowering the workforce, which he believes is key to driving success and sustaining growth in the competitive hospitality sector.
As the new Chief Operating Officer, Tamer Habib’s vision for Amora Hotels and Resorts is clear: to expand the brand’s footprint, improve operational performance and provide guests with an exceptional experience that reflects the company’s Thai heritage and core values. With his leadership, Amora is poised to embark on a new phase of growth and expansion, cementing its reputation as a leading player in the global hospitality market.
This appointment positions Amora Hotels and Resorts for continued success, as the brand capitalizes on its strong values and experienced leadership to further solidify its position in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape. With Tamer Habib at the helm, the future looks promising for the company and its growing portfolio of properties worldwide.
German leisure airline Condor has confirmed plans to wet‑lease two Embraer E190‑100LR regional jets from German Airways for its Summer 2026 schedule. The aircraft will operate selected city feeder services into and out of Frankfurt Airport, supplementing Condor’s existing Airbus narrow‑body fleet and enhancing connectivity to its medium‑ and long‑haul flights. The move aims to offer greater flexibility in capacity, meet varying demand on regional routes and strengthen feeder connectivity ahead of the peak travel season.
Introduction Germany’s Condor is expanding its operational strategy for the 2026 summer season by entering into a wet‑lease agreement with German Airways for two Embraer E190‑100LR aircraft to operate selected feeder flights to and from Frankfurt Airport. This arrangement will see German Airways provide the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (ACMI) while Condor integrates these regional jets into its network to connect smaller cities with Condor’s long‑haul and leisure services. The decision reflects Condor’s response to seasonal demand dynamics, network optimisation goals and the broader imperative in European aviation to ensure reliable connections between regional markets and major hubs.
What the Announcement Means for Condor Operations Condor’s agreement to wet‑lease E190 regional jets from German Airways marks a notable shift in how the carrier manages feeder traffic. The E190‑100LR is a 94‑seat regional jet designed for efficient short‑ and medium‑haul operations. Under the wet‑lease arrangement, German Airways will operate the E190s under Condor flight numbers and schedules, allowing Condor to serve routes with lower demand that may not justify larger Airbus aircraft while maintaining a seamless booking and service experience for passengers. The wet‑lease supports Condor’s broader network strategy by improving operational flexibility in a competitive European market.
Strategic Context Within German Aviation Condor’s decision to deploy E190 wet‑lease aircraft aligns with ongoing efforts by European carriers to optimise regional feeder networks and capacity allocation. The agreement comes at a time when demand for air travel continues to recover from pandemic‑era disruptions and leisure travel to and from Germany is projected to remain strong during summer 2026. By securing additional regional capacity through wet‑lease rather than purchasing new aircraft, Condor can adapt to fluctuating seasonal demand without committing to long‑term fleet expansion. The choice of the E190 also reflects a focus on operational efficiency and right‑sizing capacity for city pairs where larger jets may be underutilised.
Advantages for Travellers Improved Regional Connectivity Passengers on secondary and regional routes tied to Frankfurt will benefit from increased connectivity options, allowing easier access to Condor’s long‑haul flights without the need for extensive ground transfers. Flexible Capacity Allocation The addition of E190s enables Condor to adjust capacity more precisely on routes with variable demand, potentially leading to more flight options or better scheduling for travellers. Enhanced Travel Experience Operating regional jets on feeder routes can reduce the risk of overbooking and improve punctuality by using appropriately scaled aircraft for low‑demand sectors, which is particularly advantageous during peak summer travel. Seamless Integration Across Network Because the wet‑leased aircraft will operate under Condor’s brand and flight numbers, passengers can enjoy consistent service levels, baggage handling and connectivity to onward flights across Condor’s broader network.
Disadvantages and Challenges for Travellers Limited Aircraft Amenities Regional jets like the Embraer E190 typically offer fewer onboard amenities than larger Airbus aircraft, which may affect comfort on longer feeder sectors. Connection Complexity Introducing additional feeder services can increase the number of flight legs for some passengers, potentially leading to longer total journey times compared with direct services on mainline aircraft. Schedule Dependence Wet‑lease operations must be carefully coordinated; any disruptions in German Airways’ crew or operational performance could impact Condor’s feeder schedules, with ripple effects on connecting travellers’ plans. Seasonal Focus The wet‑lease arrangement is tied to the Summer 2026 schedule, meaning enhanced connectivity may not extend year‑round, and passengers travelling outside the peak season could see reduced options.
Industry and Market Perspective The use of wet‑lease regional jets reflects a broader trend in European airline operations where carriers increasingly leverage ACMI agreements to manage capacity and maintain a balance between cost, demand and efficiency. For Condor, this strategy allows agile responses to seasonal peaks without the capital expenditure and risk associated with expanding its own fleet size. The partnership with German Airways, a specialist in wet‑lease services, also taps into expertise in crew‑operated feeder services, which is critical for maintaining reliability and schedule integrity during busy travel periods.
Conclusion Condor’s announcement to wet‑lease Embraer E190s from German Airways for select feeder flights into and out of Frankfurt represents a strategic initiative to strengthen its regional base ahead of the 2026 summer travel season. By integrating right‑sized regional aircraft under Condor flight operations, the airline aims to enhance connectivity for travellers in secondary markets while maintaining efficient capacity management. For passengers, the move promises expanded route options, seamless connections and flexibility on seasonal services, although regional jet comfort and scheduling complexity remain considerations. This development highlights how European carriers are adapting fleet strategies and partnerships to meet evolving travel demand while bolstering network performance
Germany is bracing for major travel disruptions as Lufthansa pilots and cabin crew stage a 24-hour strike on Thursday, 12 February 2026, due to an ongoing dispute over pension benefits, job security, and the airline’s restructuring efforts. The strike, backed by both the Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) pilots’ union and the UFO union representing flight attendants, comes after months of stalled negotiations and will lead to widespread cancellations and delays, severely impacting flights across Germany’s busiest airports, including Frankfurt and Munich. With the airline already grappling with financial challenges, this walkout is set to cause significant chaos for passengers, affecting both domestic and international travel.
Germany is gearing up for one of the most significant travel disruptions in recent history, as Lufthansa pilots and cabin crew unite in a 24-hour strike. The move, backed by the Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) pilots’ union and the UFO union representing flight attendants, comes amid deepening disputes over pension payments, job security, and restructuring efforts within the airline. As passengers around the world brace for impact, the situation promises to bring massive flight cancellations, widespread delays, and severe disruptions to travel, particularly in Germany’s busiest airports.
A Storm Brewing Over Lufthansa’s Workforce
Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship carrier and a major player in global aviation, has found itself at the center of an escalating labour dispute that has now reached a boiling point. The 24-hour strike, which will take place on Thursday, 12 February 2026, is the result of long-running negotiations between the airline and its workforce over pension schemes and job security.
What Sparked the Strike?
The core issue at hand is a dispute over pension benefits. Pilots represented by the VC union have been pushing for more favourable retirement terms, arguing that current arrangements are inadequate given inflation and rising living costs. The union’s demands go beyond merely increasing pension payments—they are asking for terms that better reflect the growing financial strain faced by employees.
The UFO union has also played a pivotal role in the strike action. Its members, including cabin crew from Lufthansa CityLine, are protesting the planned closure of CityLine, a subsidiary that has been central to Lufthansa’s regional operations. Employees fear that the relocation of operations to new subsidiaries will not only affect their job security but also undermine their working conditions and long-term career prospects.
Lufthansa’s decision to shutter CityLine, announced nearly a year ago, has sparked outrage among staff. The transition to lower-cost subsidiaries is viewed as an attempt to cut costs at the expense of employee welfare, a sentiment that has only fueled the fires of resentment within the workforce.
Strike Details: When and Where Will the Impact Be Felt?
The 24-hour strike will begin at 00:01 local time on Thursday, 12 February 2026, and will continue until 23:59 local time. Lufthansa’s main hubs—Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Munich Airport (MUC)—will be particularly hard-hit. However, the strike is expected to affect all airports across Germany, including major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Stuttgart. Passengers flying in or out of Germany are advised to expect major disruptions, including cancelled flights, delays, and long queues.
The disruption extends beyond just passenger flights. Lufthansa Cargo, which handles freight services, is also part of the strike action. This will likely affect the transportation of goods to and from Germany, potentially leading to logistical headaches for international businesses relying on airfreight. With global supply chains already under pressure, this strike is set to have far-reaching consequences.
Lufthansa’s Response to the Strike
As the strike draws nearer, Lufthansa’s management has issued statements condemning the union’s decision to escalate the situation. The airline has described the strike as a “needless escalation”, accusing the unions of pushing the dispute to a point of no return. Lufthansa executives have expressed a willingness to negotiate, but have also stressed the need for cost-cutting measures in light of the airline’s financial difficulties.
In its latest earnings report, Lufthansa revealed that it had seen a significant drop in earnings for 2024, with profits falling by nearly 20% compared to previous years. This decline in financial performance, exacerbated by rising costs, aircraft delivery delays, and worker walkouts, has led the airline to explore cost-saving measures, including staff reductions and restructuring efforts.
One of the most controversial measures announced by Lufthansa was the decision to cut 4,000 jobs, or nearly 4% of its workforce. While this move was framed as essential for the airline’s long-term survival, it has been met with fierce opposition from unions, who argue that the cuts and restructuring efforts are being made at the expense of employees’ livelihoods.
The Disruption: What Passengers Can Expect
The impact of the 24-hour strike on passengers will be far-reaching and devastating. Lufthansa is already bracing for widespread flight cancellations and significant delays at major airports. The strike is expected to disrupt both domestic and international flights, leaving passengers stranded at airports across Germany.
In addition to Lufthansa’s mainline flights, services operated by Lufthansa CityLine and Lufthansa Cargo are also likely to be affected. As the airline faces operational chaos, it’s expected that travelers may experience long waits at check-in counters, long security lines, and massive queues at customer service desks. Airport lounges will likely see large numbers of frustrated passengers seeking information and assistance, making for a tense atmosphere at key airports.
Travelers flying on other airlines that share codeshares with Lufthansa or rely on Lufthansa’s air traffic routes may also experience delays or cancellations, as Lufthansa is integral to Europe’s air traffic system. A ripple effect will likely be felt in airports across the continent.
EU Passenger Rights
For those impacted by the strike, the European Union’s air passenger rights regulations (EC 261/2004) offer some degree of protection. Passengers whose flights are cancelled or significantly delayed are entitled to rebooking, refunds, and, in certain cases, compensation of up to €600, depending on the flight distance and delay time.
Passengers will also be entitled to meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if their flight is cancelled and they are forced to wait overnight. Lufthansa has committed to providing updates to affected passengers, and those traveling on Thursday are advised to stay in constant contact with the airline for rebooking options.
Broader Implications for Lufthansa and European Travel
This strike is not just a blow to Lufthansa, but it also represents a wider issue within European aviation. Lufthansa is one of the most influential players in Europe’s air transport sector, and its difficulties reflect the broader challenges faced by the industry. Rising costs, supply chain disruptions, staff shortages, and the ongoing economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have all placed pressure on airlines.
The 24-hour strike will likely increase the widespread frustration felt by travelers and business customers who rely on timely air transport. With air travel being one of the most popular ways to travel between European cities, the strike’s impact will be felt well beyond Germany’s borders.
As Lufthansa’s strike unfolds, it raises important questions about the future of the airline and the wider aviation industry. With cost-cutting measures, job losses, and industrial action becoming increasingly common, passengers and industry stakeholders alike are left to wonder what this will mean for the long-term viability of major carriers like Lufthansa.
Lufthansa’s management insists that these actions are necessary for the airline’s financial health, but the unions argue that it is the workers who are bearing the brunt of the airline’s efforts to recover from its financial struggles. The strike has now become a symbol of the growing tension between airlines, unions, and employees, and travellers will continue to feel its effects for the foreseeable future.
Germany is facing major travel disruptions as Lufthansa pilots and cabin crew strike for 24 hours on 12 February 2026, driven by a dispute over pension benefits and job security amid the airline’s restructuring plans. The strike will cause widespread cancellations and delays, particularly affecting key airports like Frankfurt and Munich.
For those impacted by the strike, patience and flexibility will be key. As the situation develops, passengers are urged to stay informed, check their flight status, and be prepared for the potential for significant delays and cancellations. The impact of this strike is only beginning to be understood, and it could have lasting repercussions for both Lufthansa and its passengers.
Bitcoin volatility spiked on the back of surprisingly strong US nonfarm payrolls numbers, but traders retained $50,000 BTC price targets. Will a Fed rate decision lead to a bullish outcome?
The EU plans to ban crypto transactions with Russia by shutting down all related channels, but analysts question whether the measure is fully enforceable.
Danske Bank said it is opening access to Bitcoin and Ether ETPs for self-directed clients after years of caution on crypto, citing rising customer demand and clearer EU rules.
Sam Bankman-Fried seeks a new FTX trial, alleging DOJ witness pressure and citing a declaration disputing the prosecution’s insolvency claims, according to a new filing.
The product will let institutions use custodied Bitcoin as onchain collateral without moving assets or transferring control, with Morpho set as the initial liquidity partner.
Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy S26 series will launch on February 25. Ahead of the official reveal, new leaks have shown detailed images and specifications. Now, new renders of the Galaxy S26 Plus and Galaxy S26 Ultra show the phone in black color from different angles.
YTECHB has shared the renders of the Galaxy S26 Plus and Galaxy S26 Ultra, highlighting small design changes and the updated camera setup.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra shows the biggest design change in its rear camera. It now has a single camera island inspired by the Galaxy Z Fold 7 instead of the old separate rings. This design gives the back a clean, modern look. Buttons, speakers, ports, and the S Pen remain in the same positions as before. The black color makes it look elegant and professional.
Image via YTECHB
On the other side, the Galaxy S26 Plus looks similar to the base model, with a slightly larger 6.7-inch display. It appears in Black, which gives both phones a sleek, premium appearance.
According to the previous reports, Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus has a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz, Exynos 2600 processor in some markets, 12GB RAM, and 256/512GB storage. It features a 50MP main, 10MP telephoto (3x), 12MP ultrawide, and 12MP front camera, plus a 4,900mAh battery with 45W wired and 15W wireless charging.
On the other hand, Galaxy S26 Ultra to offer a 6.9-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 12/16GB RAM, 256GB–1TB storage, a 200MP main camera, 50MP ultrawide, 50MP periscope, and 10MP telephoto. It has a 5,000mAh battery with 60W wired and 15W wireless charging.
Both models will be available in multiple colors, but the Black variant stands out for its clean, timeless look. Fans can see the Galaxy S26 series in action when Samsung officially unveils it on February 25.
Deal | If you’ve been eyeing Google’s latest flagship, now’s a pretty good time to make your move. The entire Pixel 10 lineup is seeing discounts, with up to $300 off across virtually all configurations.
Garmin has delivered a new update for many of its older high-end smartwatches. The first of its kind, Beta Version 26.02 introduces a new feature while also addressing numerous outstanding bugs.
The Xiaomi Pad 8 and Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro have passed a key hurdle before being released globally. Unlike their Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra counterparts, Xiaomi's new high-end tablets will be available internationally with the same hardware as in China.
On February 10, the Battlefield 6 development team released an in-depth community update on the upcoming Season 2. The post has since amassed more than 240,000 views and over 380 comments – figures that highlight not only continued interest in the game, but also a divided community.
According to official information, Android 17 – codenamed “Cinnamon Bun” – is set to launch shortly. This comes as a surprise, as a developer preview is usually released before the beta phase begins. However, Google appears to be skipping that step and is expected to roll out the beta to the first Pixel devices in the coming days.
Garmin has started issuing a new update for one of its recent LTE smartwatch releases. Rolling out globally, Software Version 16.23 contains several new features and addresses multiple outstanding bugs.
Nintendo Switch emulator Kenji-NX has been updated, and it's a major one. The latest version brings a range of changes, and improvements for the Snapdragon 8 Elite phones are among the highlights.
The Sharp P Series laser projectors for commercial use have been launched in the US. The company highlights two models, the XP-P621U-W and the XP-P701U-W, with the latter offering up to 7,000 lumens brightness. Other features of these WUXGA projectors include an integrated speaker and an HDBaseT input.
The Gigabyte GO27Q24G is a new 1440p glossy WOLED monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate and USB-C. Promising sharper and clearer images than matte OLED panels, it's now available in China for under $400, with a global release expected later.
The Infinix Note 60 series is coming soon, and it includes the Pininfarina-designed Note 60 Ultra. Yesterday the brand announced that some members of the family will be using Snapdragon chipsets by Qualcomm. Not the 'vanilla' Note 60, though.
This device has just been spotted in the Geekbench online database, with the model number X6879. It's powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 SoC, paired, in the model that ran the benchmark, with 8GB of RAM.
Of course, Infinix could be offering additional RAM options upon launch. The phone will run Android 16 with Infinix's recently unveiled...
Before facing Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick sent a pointed message about Real Madrid.
Barcelona are on the verge of another final, as they will take on Atletico Madrid this Thursday in the Copa del Rey semifinals. Ahead of that matchup, head coach Hansi Flick delivered a message with a subtle jab at Real Madrid.
During the pre-match press conference against Los Colchoneros, shared by Marca, the coach was asked whether he agreed with those who thought Barcelonahad an overly easy path to the semifinals, having not faced any La Liga teams up to that point.
“Ask Real Madrid,” Hansi Flick replied with a smile and a slight shrug, prompting silence in the conference room followed by some laughter from reporters at the German coach’s cheeky response.
Flick was, of course, referring to the fact that Real Madrid had a similar path but still failed to reach the decisive stages of the tournament. They narrowly overcame Talavera, a third-division Spanish team, 3-2, and then were eliminated in the round of 16 by second-tier clubAlbacete.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid’s head coach, watches on during the Copa del Rey loss to Albacete.
Barcelona’s path in the 2025-26 Copa del Rey
Beyond Hansi Flick’s remark, which aimed to underscore that any opponent can be dangerous if underestimated, it’s undeniable that Barcelona reached the Copa del Rey semifinals without facing any team even remotely comparable in quality to theirs.
Their tournament debut came against C.D. Guadalajara, a third-division Spanish team, which they defeated 2-0. In the round of 16, they faced Racing de Santander from the second division, again winning 2-0.
In the quarterfinals, the Blaugranas met Albacete, the team that had eliminated Real Madrid in the previous round. As in that earlier matchup, the second-division club posed a tough challenge for Barcelona, who managed a narrow 2-1 victory.
Barcelona face tough challenge against Atletico Madrid
Those matches against lower-division opponents are now behind them, and Barcelona now face an extremely difficult challenge against Atletico Madrid in the semifinals, which will now be played over two legs. They also know that if they advance to the final, they will face another La Liga team, either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad.
Ahead of Thursday’s first leg against Los Colchoneros at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Flick will have to cope with the absence of Marcus Rashford, sidelined due to a knee issue. At the same time, Raphinha is not at full fitness, leaving questions about who will start on the left wing.
Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig square off in the 2025–26 DFB Pokal quarterfinals. Fans in the United States can find complete information here on kickoff time and where to watch nationwide, including television listings and streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Bayern vs RB Leipzig on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO
Bayern vs RB Leipzig
WHAT
DFB Pokal
WHEN
2:45pm ET / 11:45am PT • Wednesday, February 11, 2026
One of the DFB-Pokal’s leading title contenders takes the stage in the quarterfinals as Bayern Munich continue their latest domestic title push. Fueled by a strong current form, Bayernremain a favorite in any competition they enter, but a trip to the semifinals is far from guaranteed.
Standing in their way are RB Leipzig, a side that has endured an inconsistent campaign yet now finds itself with a prime chance to make a statement, knock out the tournament’s top contender, and secure a spot in the final four.
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The American winger, who has been one of the standout performers in Italy this season, remains under contract at San Siro until summer 2027. However, developments behind the scenes have sparked renewed speculation.
Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of a growing transfer narrative once again, with Premier League clubs circling and uncertainty quietly building around his long-term future. The American winger, who has been one of the standout performers in Italy this season, remains under contract at San Siro until summer 2027. However, developments behind the scenes have sparked renewed speculation.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches on home soil, every decision surrounding his career path carries added significance. For now, Christian Pulisic continues to focus on his performances on the pitch, but off it, the landscape is shifting, and some of Europe’s biggest clubs are watching closely.
The American’s resurgence in Serie A has not gone unnoticed. Since arriving at Milan from Chelsea, he has re-established himself as a key attacking figure, combining consistency, durability, and decisive moments. His performances this season have placed him among the most productive players in his squad, and that resurgence has reignited interest from England.
Liverpool and Arsenal are said tohave been monitoring his situation, while Tottenham and Manchester United have also been mentioned in various reports. There is no suggestion that a formal bid has been made, but the timing of his contractual situation has created an opportunity in a market that rarely stands still. “Several English clubs are interested in the American for next season, and they’re ready to make AC Milan an offer to bring him back to the Premier League…”, Calciomercato suggests.
Pulisic’s value has risen significantly after a stable and productive campaign in Italy, and analysts have highlighted his season as one of the most impressive by an American player in Europe in recent years. For Premier League clubs reassessing their attacking depth, he represents both experience and versatility.
Why the contract situation matters now
Behind the speculation lies a simple but increasingly important reality: Pulisic’s contract extension has not been finalized despite earlier reports of an agreement in principle. His current deal runs until June 2027, but the absence of formal paperwork has raised questions both internally and externally.
This delay has coincided with renewed media attention and interest in England, where clubs are constantly scanning the market for opportunities. Even without a transfer request, the lack of clarity naturally fuels speculation.
Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States.
The timing is crucial, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. A strong tournament on home soil could elevate Pulisic’s market value further, while entering the final phase of his contract would weaken the club’s negotiating position.
Where do Pulisic and Milan stand each?
The mystery surrounding the situation becomes clearer when examining the positions of both sides. As per Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb,Pulisic is reportedly waiting for a formal contract offer, having expected his renewal to be finalized months ago. Apparently, the winger has been left “disconcerted” by the delay, although his positive stance toward the club has not changed.
At the same time, the club views his renewal as the next major priority, especially after securing goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s extension, the report adds. Officials remain confident that an agreement will be completed and see him as a central pillar of the long-term project.
AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic and Mike Maignan.
Despite the uncertainty, neither side has publicly suggested a desire to part ways. Instead, the situation reflects timing, priorities, and the complex administrative nature of modern contract negotiations.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring
Despite Barcelona’s dominant form, they face a significant setback ahead of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atlético Madrid. A key teammate of Lamine Yamal has missed the latest training session and been ruled out of the match, complicating Hansi Flick’s plan.
Barcelona have firmly established themselves as the in-form team in Spain, maintaining an impressive winning streak. They’ve also rediscovered their most potent attacking lineup, with Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal leading the charge. However, coach Hansi Flick faces a significant challenge. A key teammate of Lamine has been ruled out of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atlético Madrid, complicating their path forward.
According to Barcelona on X (formerly Twitter), Marcus Rashford will be absent for the match against Atlético Madrid.After the most recent game against RCD Mallorca, the Englishman experienced knee pain. Although the injury does not appear to be serious, coach Hansi Flick revealed that the forward was not fit to play and leaving him out is a precautionary measure. His absence is a major blow for the Blaugranas, who are now short of attacking options.
Like the Englishman, Raphinha also missed Barcelona’s final training session before the Copa del Rey semifinals. Although he has not been ruled out, his presence in the starting lineup is unlikely, as he trained separately from the group. With Rashford sidelined and doubts surrounding the Brazilian, coach Hansi Flick will be forced to make significant adjustments to his squad, complicating his chances of defeating Atlético Madrid.
Unlike previous matches, the Blaugranas will likely rely on Ferran Torres as the left winger, leaving Robert Lewandowski as the only option at center forward. Due to Pedri’s absence, Dani Olmo will not be available as an attacking option, as he is expected to anchor the midfield alongside Frenkie de Jong. Despite these absences, Barcelona still boast strong squad depth, keeping them as favorites against Atlético Madrid.
𝐌𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓
The first team player Marcus Rashford has pain in his left knee after taking a blow in the game against Mallorca on Saturday at Spotify Camp Nou.
Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid also face key absence setback
Atlético Madrid are not on a positive run of results, having won just two of their last five matches. In addition, coach Diego Simeone has not managed to find the ideal balance within the squad, raising doubts about their competitiveness. Like Barcelona, who are dealing with the absences of Raphinha and Rashford, Los Colchoneros are also facing the loss of a key player, creating uncertainty ahead of the Copa del Rey clash.
After suffering a muscle injury in the match against Real Betis, Pablo Barrios has been ruled out of Atlético Madrid vs. Barcelona, as he will be sidelined for a month. In response, coach Simeone stated that his absence is deeply felt, as he is their best midfielder and the central axis of the team. In his place, they could turn to Rodrigo Mendoza or Obed Vargas in an attempt to restore balance to the side.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match.
Coach Enzo Maresca has left the door open for the departure of a $60M Chelsea signing, citing a lack of playing time as the January transfer window approaches.
When Enzo Maresca joined Chelsea from Leicester City in July 2024, one of the biggest challenges was managing the massive squad of 43 professional players eligible for the first team at the start of the season. With the winter transfer window approaching, the Italian coach has left the door open for a $60M signing to depart due to a lack of playing time.
One of the significant acquisitions during Roman Abramovich’s ownership was Ben Chilwell. The left-back, who had established himself as one of the Premier League’s best during his time at Leicester City and with the England national team, joined Chelsea in August 2020 for €50M ($60M at the time). Despite his early promise, Chilwell has struggled to find a place in Maresca’s system, prompting speculation about his future.
In Friday’s pre-match press conference, Maresca didn’t shy away when asked about unhappy players in the squad. “There are players that unfortunately didn’t play a lot with us in all the competitions, like Chilwell, like Carney (Chukwuemeka). Probably they are the first ones who want to leave because they work every day, they train every day, and they want to play games. If they don’t play games, probably they’re thinking about leaving.”
The contrast between Chilwell’s role this season and last season is striking. Despite missing significant time during the 2023-24 campaign due to injuries, the left-back was still a key starter under Mauricio Pochettino, logging 1,172 minutes across 21 games, and being the second captain of the team.
This season under Maresca, Chilwell’s situation has been drastically different. Despite remaining fit and training consistently, he has been relegated to the sidelines. Excluded from Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League roster, Chilwell has only played 45 minutes across all competitions this season—coming on as a second-half substitute in a 5-0 EFL Cup win against AFC Barrow.
Early signs of Chilwell’s marginalization
Maresca hinted at Chilwell’s diminished role during the preseason. When asked about the left-back’s position, the coach said, “The reason he did not play versus Inter was because, with Chilly (Chilwell), it is quite clear. Even though I love the way he is, the problem is that he is struggling a bit to find the right position.
“This morning we had 22 players training and if you ask all of them they will say they want to play against City on Sunday. But that is impossible. When you train every day and do not get any minutes it is not good for them or for me. I need to make a decision and probably it is better to leave and go and get minutes. The transfer window is open so we’ll see what happens,” Maresca said, already hinting Chilwell to look for a future out of Chelsea.
More Chelsea players on the way out
Chilwell isn’t the only player facing an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge. According to Fabrizio Romano, Carney Chukwuemeka and Cesare Casadei are also exploring January exits in search of more minutes. Meanwhile, Marc Guiu’s situation remains unresolved.
Casadei has attracted interest from multiple Serie A clubs and could leave on loan or through a permanent transfer. Chukwuemeka, on the other hand, has suitors across Europe, including Italy. AC Milan, who pursued the midfielder during the summer, could reignite their interest in January.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Chelsea at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, England on 14 September 2024.
This year, the discourse surrounding Rodri’s win over Vinicius illustrates the difficulties in defining one player's impact over another's.
The Ballon d’Or, an award designed to recognize soccer’s single most dominant player, always comes with an element of controversy. This year, the discourse surrounding Rodri’s win over Vinicius illustrates the difficulties in defining one player’s impact over another’s. Rodri, who was pivotal in City’s historic treble-winning season, earned his recognition by excelling in both club and international play, underscoring his influence in a deeply talented team.
With Rodri becoming only the second Spanish men’s player to claim the Ballon d’Or, this year’s award has generated unique tensions and left Real Madrid disappointed and vocal about the outcome. His win marked a momentous achievement for Spanish soccer, making him only the second Spanish player to take home the Ballon d’Or. For Manchester City, the victory was a source of pride, particularly in the face of a strained relationship with Real Madrid, who were noticeably absent from the ceremony in Paris. The Spanish giants had expected Vinicius Júnior to claim the title, with club president Florentino Perez even planning to send a large delegation to the event.
However, according to reports, as soon as Madrid’s management discovered that Vinicius would not be winning, they scrapped their planned Paris festivities. Perez canceled a five-hour broadcast initially scheduled for the club’s official television station, emphasizing the disappointment within the club and among Vinicius’ supporters.
France Football’s efforts to maintain secrecy
Before the announcement, France Football, the organizer of the Ballon d’Or, emphasized that the winner’s name would not be leaked to the press. Nevertheless, rumors reached Vinicius’ camp last week, just a day before the award ceremony, with sources from the Spanish Football Federation confirming Rodri’s win. These reports sent shockwaves in Spain, where there was confidence in the Brazilian’s chances had remained high until the final hours.
Rodri, reportedly confident of his position, is said to have openly discussed his expectations with teammates. This display of self-assuredness, along with Madrid’s last-minute discovery, added to the growing tension between the two clubs, who have historically enjoyed a complex rivalry on and off the field.
How votes were cast: Breaking down points
L’Equipe, a French sports newspaper, reported that the final point tally between Rodri and Vinicius was close, with only 41 points separating the two(1170 vs 1129). Each journalist was asked to rank their top ten players, with points awarded as follows: 15 points for first place, 12 points for second, 10 for third, and so on, down to 1 point for tenth place. With a maximum of 1,485 points up for grabs, only 100 journalists were designated voters this year, and one, representing Syria, did not cast a vote.
Interestingly, five journalists placed England’s Jude Bellingham as their top pick. In addition to Bellingham, four votes were cast for Carvajal in first place, two for Toni Kroos, and one each for Mbappe, Lookman, Haaland, and Lautaro Martinez. The varied opinions illustrate the breadth of talent in the global football arena and the inherent subjectivity of selecting a single winner.
However, the distribution of votes also raised eyebrows. Three journalists omitted the Brazilian from their top ten entirely, sparking further criticism from Los Blancos’ supporters, who argue that his season deserved higher recognition.
With the Sporting Lisbon-Manchester City duel in the UEFA Champions League on sight, Pep Guardiola praised Ruben Amorim's job in Portugal.
Excitement is building for the UEFA Champions League clash between Sporting Lisbon and Manchester City, a match poised to be pivotal in securing a top spot for both teams. Beyond the competition, fans are anticipating the strategic face-off between managers Pep Guardiola and Ruben Amorim, soon to be the next Manchester United coach. When asked about Amorim, Guardiola had only words of admiration.
Guardiola and Amorim last faced each other in the 2021-22 Champions League Round of 16, where City dominated with a 5-0 win in the first leg. However, in discussing the upcoming matchup, Guardiola expressed a note of caution.
“It’s the same manager, the patterns are pretty similar, they changed players. In that game, it wasn’t easy, but we arrived in the first half four, five times and scored four, five goals. We were clinical, but I think they improved,” said Guardiola in an interview with TNT Sports.
Though he has yet to meet Amorim personally, Guardiola expressed his respect and enthusiasm for Amorim’s move to the Premier League: “I don’t know him, but from outside, he looks like a lovely guy. When I see him in the dugout he behaves much, much better than me. Honestly, I am really pleased that he is coming to England to play (with) United. I think both clubs have a lot of respect in the hierarchy.”
Amorim will lead Sporting for two final matches before moving to Manchester United, giving both managers a preview of each other’s tactics ahead of future encounters in England.
Amorim: “Guardiola is the best coach in the world”
Since their last encounter, Amorim has built an impressive reputation, establishing Sporting as one of Portugal’s top teams and holding his own against Europe’s elite. Before the game, he made a comment about Guardiola that might stir mixed feelings among United fans.
“It’s a massive game, for me he’s the best coach in the world – I know it’s tough for Manchester United fans- and I think it’s the best team in the world. So it’s going to be a tough game, we are near the qualification for playoff, so this game is very important,” Amorim said on talks with TNT Sports.
The occasion holds special significance for Amorim, as it will be his last home game with Sporting at Estádio José Alvalade: It’s also my last game in Alvalade, so that’s the focus; the objectives of Sporting, my last game in Alvalade. I know everybody in England are taking ideas for this game, but for me it’s just that.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola speaks to the media during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD3 training and press conference at Manchester City Football Academy on October 22, 2024 in Manchester, England.
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will be leading an official task force regarding player welfare. FIFA is assembling the group amid widespread concerns over fixture congestion. Several clubs, coaches, and players have recently joined together to voice their frustrations on the issue. Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, announced this past summer that they may […]
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will be leading an official task force regarding player welfare. FIFA is assembling the group amid widespread concerns over fixture congestion. Several clubs, coaches, and players have recently joined together to voice their frustrations on the issue.
Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, announced this past summer that they may boycott the 2025 Club World Cup. This came after FIFA revealed that the competition would be heavily expanded. The tournament has typically been contested by just seven clubs. Nevertheless, the new competition, which is set to be played in the United States next summer, will now feature 32 teams.
Just days after Real’s statement, FIFPro, the global soccer players union, announced legal action against FIFA. While the case was triggered by several decisions by the governing body, it essentially centers around the Club World Cup. FIFPro officially represents nearly 65,000 professional soccer players across the globe.
2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri then claimed that players could soon go on strike if FIFA keeps increasing fixture lists. Several players, including Real’s Thibaut Courtois, supported the remarks by the Manchester City star. Rodri unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury just days after the claim.
Wenger has worked extensively with FIFA since Arsenal departure
FIFA is attempting to combat the overwhelming backlash by implementing the new task force. Following his departure from coaching, Wenger was hired by FIFA to become their Chief of Global Football Development. In the role, the Frenchman is essentially responsible for growing and developing the sport.
Along with this position, Wenger also works as a key member of the Football and Technical Advisory Panel. The job allows the former manager to submit input on potential official rule changes in the sport. Wenger has since pushed for a controversially major alteration to the offside law.
FIFA is asking Wenger and the task force to discuss player welfare issues with “key stakeholders” in soccer. “The objective of the task force is to examine how suitable and effective safeguards for players can be implemented, also taking into account practical considerations from operational, medical, regulatory, and legal perspectives,” read a FIFA statement.
Following the talks, the task force will then make their recommendations regarding the issue. FIFA claims that the panel will also review “scientific research” on players’ physical and mental health in dealing with fixture congestion. According to the governing body, the task force is expected to work on the task throughout the “coming weeks.”
Wenger previously voiced support for expanded Club World Cup
Despite coordinating a task force on player welfare, the 2025 Club World Cup is expected to go on as planned. Wenger is notably a vocal proponent of the controversially expanded tournament. In fact, the Frenchman previously claimed that increasing the Club World Cup to 32 teams will help make soccer more “global.”
Along with defending FIFA’s decision to expand the fairly unpopular competition, Wenger also believes players are essentially treated better now than ever before. The former coach claimed that the “welfare of the players… has increased dramatically” in recent decades. Wenger made the assertion by pointing to various improvements in injury prevention, recovery work, and nutrition.
Vinicius Junior believes that his recent Ballon d'Or snub was because he regularly fights racism. The Real Madrid star, widely seen as the frontrunner for the annual award, ultimately finished second behind Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Aware that he was not going to collect the trophy, Vinicius opted not to attend the ceremony in France. […]
Vinicius Junior believes that his recent Ballon d’Or snub was because he regularly fights racism. The Real Madrid star, widely seen as the frontrunner for the annual award, ultimately finished second behind Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Aware that he was not going to collect the trophy, Vinicius opted not to attend the ceremony in France.
Vinicius’s Real teammates echoed the Brazilian star’s sentiments. None of the Spanish club’s players or representatives were in attendance on the night. The move by the reigning European champions was mostly ridiculed for being selfish.
Following the event, Vinicius took to social media to voice his frustrations. “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready,” the winger wrote on X. Because the remark could fall under different connotations, Reuters later attempted to get clarification on the statement.
According to the news agency, the player’s management team responded by saying that “the football world is not ready to accept a player who fights against the system.” Vinicius previously signed on with Roc Nation Sports after the American company acquired Brazilian agency TFM in 2023.
Brazilian star has been combating racial abuse in Spain for years
Vinicius has regularly been the target of racial abuse since he joined Real in 2018. As a result, the star has been vocal about making changes within the system to combat the deplorable acts. He was in tears while publicly speaking on the issue earlier this year.
Despite claims that the star may move away from Real because of the ongoing problem, Vinicius asserted that he would remain in Spain to play for the team that he loves. According to the Brazilian, leaving the club would “give the racists exactly what they want.”
LaLiga officials have seemingly been slow in attempting to curb racial abuse during matches. A Spanish court, however, recently gave a Mallorca fan a 12-month suspended sentence for hurling racial insults during two separate matches. One of the players to be abused was Vinicius.
The ruling was later applauded by LaLiga president Javier Tebas. The league executive claimed at the time that soccer supporters who commit racial abuse should receive jail time. Nevertheless, it remains unclear if the outcomes of similar cases will follow this path.
Brazilian outlets attribute Vinicius Ballon d’Or loss to Copa America
Although the comments made by Vinicius Junior’s management staff are certainly eyebrow-raising, reports out of Brazil have a different take on the issue. Multiple media outlets in the player’s home country essentially blamed the Ballon d’Or snub on Brazil’s failure at Copa America 2024.
Despite entering the tournament as one of the favorites, Brazil shockingly fell at the quarterfinal stage. Uruguay topped their South American rivals in the match following a penalty shootout. Vinicius did not play in the game after picking up yellow cards in the team’s two previous fixtures.
Personal accolades are certainly a significant factor in the Ballon d’Or voting process. However, team success, both for club and country, also plays a major part in selecting a winner as well. This is a specific area where Rodri separated from Vinicius in the voting.
While Brazil struggled, Rodri guided Spain to the Euro 2024 championship. The midfielder’s stellar display earned him plaudits as the tournament’s best player as well. In total, Rodri has only lost once in his last 85 total games between Spain and City.
Manchester United wants to move quickly in its pursuit of Sporting manager Ruben Amorim. After a string of poor results, the Red Devils finally sacked Erik ten Hag on Monday. The now-former head coach departed the club as they sit 14th in the current Premier League standings. Almost immediately after the news regarding Ten Hag […]
Manchester United wants to move quickly in its pursuit of Sporting manager Ruben Amorim. After a string of poor results, the Red Devils finally sacked Erik ten Hag on Monday. The now-former head coach departed the club as they sit 14th in the current Premier League standings.
Almost immediately after the news regarding Ten Hag broke, Amorim became the frontrunner to succeed the Dutchman at United. Before being heavily linked with United, the Portuguese coach was expected to potentially replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
Nevertheless, the reigning English champions will reportedly not step up efforts to target Amorim at the moment. City officials are still hopeful that Guardiola will sign a new contract extension and remain at the helm. The Spaniard’s current deal is set to expire in June. With City seemingly out of the way, United has a free run at Amorim.
The coach has also given the Red Devils the green light to discuss an agreement with Sporting. Because he is still under contract with the Portuguese club, United brass have to pay his release clause. This fee is reportedly around $11 million. Negotiations are expected to move quickly, as the Red Devils want Amorim on the sidelines for their matchup with Chelsea on Sunday.
Portuguese coach would bring key experience to his new club
Amorim’s managerial stock has skyrocketed in a relatively short amount of time. At just 39, he is currently seen as one of the top young managers in all of Europe. He has previously guided Sporting to the double in his first full campaign in charge. The coach then followed this up with another Primeira Liga title this past season.
Not only has Amorim collected trophies at Sporting, as well as Braga before that, but he has done so while taking over tough situations. Both Portuguese top-flight teams were struggling before he arrived. Assuming he does join United, Amorim will bring experience in successfully righting the ship with him to Manchester.
Along with possessing positive character and leadership traits, Amorim should boost player development at United. In particular, the coach has a history of developing young players into stars. This would certainly seem to benefit current Red Devils such as Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, Amad Diallo, and Leny Yoro.
Tactically, Amorim prefers a 3-4-3 formation, which typically transitions to a 5-2-3 when out of possession. Holding on to the ball, however, is key for the Portuguese coach. Under Amorim, Sporting currently dominates the Primeira Liga with an impressive 65% possession rate. The club also leads the league with 25 total shots per game and a successful pass rate of nearly 90%.
Amorim would likely need ample time to turn things around at United
United and its fans will welcome these figures. At the moment, the Red Devils do not even come close to any of these specific statistics. However, while Amorim is a top choice for United, patience would be mandatory.
For instance, there are clear squad issues up and down this United roster. Despite spending over $700 million on new players during the Ten Hag era, the Red Devils still need significant changes within the team. As a result, it could take time for the club to begin challenging for a Premier League title. Hiring Amorim should be a long-term project.
Amorim, or any other manager that would enter the fray, should also not expect this spending spree to continue in January. The Guardian claims that the new manager will have limited funds during the next transfer window.
United has attempted to balance the books in recent months due to the previous overspending. The club is also shelling out a hefty sum by making the managerial change. Along with paying Amorim’s salary and his $11 million release clause, United also has to pay Ten Hag a $17 million severance package.
Manchester City and Spain sensation Rodri claimed the 2024 Ballon d'Or on Monday in one of the most controversial moments in the award's history. Almost all saw Real Madrid winger Vinicius as the clear frontrunner to win the award that goes to the best player in the world for any given season. Real Madrid, with […]
Manchester City and Spain sensation Rodri claimed the 2024 Ballon d’Or on Monday in one of the most controversial moments in the award’s history. Almost all saw Real Madrid winger Vinicius as the clear frontrunner to win the award that goes to the best player in the world for any given season. Real Madrid, with Vinicius leading the way, won the Champions League and LaLiga. He scored 24 goals and tacked on eleven assists in all competitions in the 2023/24 season. That included a brace against Bayern Munich in the semifinals of the Champions League. He also dethroned Rodri and Manchester City in the quarterfinals, providing a brace at the Etihad in a 3-3 draw.
Rodri’s claim to success was his performance at the European Championship with Spain. While Vinicius and Brazil floundered in the United States this summer, Spain was dominant. Rodri won the award for Player of the Tournament as Spain did not lose the entire tournament. Yet, that was one international tournament. Rodri was not the best player on his club team this past season, much less the best in the world. Vinicius, who won the award as the best player in the UEFA Champions League, is a far more deserving candidate.
This is not to discredit Rodri. He is assuredly one of the best players in the world currently. Had Vinicius not performed so well with Real Madrid in the 2023/24 season, few would argue against Rodri being a deserving recipient of the 2023/24 Ballon d’Or. Yet, the Ballon d’Or has lost credibility as a true representation of the best player in the world.
Instead, it goes to the best player in an international tournament. In 2024, the award goes to Euro 2024 champion Rodri. In 2023, Lionel Messi won the award because of his World Cup performance in Qatar, not necessarily what he did with PSG and especially Inter Miami. Before then, Karim Benzema won the award as something of an undisputed champion. Yet, even before that, Lionel Messi won again because of the Copa America.
Ballon d’Or for Rodri draws more controversy to once proud award
Benzema’s triumph in 2022 is a rare occurrence of a player winning the Ballon d’Or as the player with both the best statistics and trophies. That means we are now in the third straight year of the player having the best season not winning the Ballon d’Or. The verbiage in this case is also important. Lionel Messi may have been the best player in the world in 2021 or 2023. In 2021, Robert Lewandowski had more goal contributions, including scoring in all but four games that he played in for the Bundesliga. However, the Ballon d’Or voters were enamored with the Copa America win.
Before then, Luka Modric won the Ballon d’Or after guiding Croatia to the World Cup Final. That was a fantastic achievement. However, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both had stronger cases for what they brought to their clubs and countries.
Over the years, the Ballon d’Or has become a popularity contest. It is refreshing in some regard to see Rodri win the award from his role as a defensive midfielder. Still, this is a product of his time with the Spanish national team. Had the award been given out at the immediate conclusion of the 2023/24 season, Vinicius would have won. It is hard to fathom that seven games at the Euros are enough to take that award away from him.
Inconsistency has become common for the Ballon d’Or, and it is leading to the overall distrust of the award as a true measure of greatness. The Real Madrid conglomerate of players and staff are not going to Paris because of their disappointment in Vinicius not receiving the Ballon d’Or. On one hand, it is disrespectful to Rodri and the other candidates. Yet, everyone thought Vinicius was the frontrunner. Broadcasters in El Clasico even said that Vinicius was going to win the award during the game against Barcelona. Now, though, the soccer world is left confused by the latest iteration of the popularity contest.
RB Leipzig Managing Director Johann Plenge, who has been with the club since it was in the fifth tier of German soccer, has opened up about the possibility of Bundesliga clubs playing league games abroad in a revealing new interview. Ask any fan of a Bundesliga club which league is most likely to play league […]
RB Leipzig Managing Director Johann Plenge, who has been with the club since it was in the fifth tier of German soccer, has opened up about the possibility of Bundesliga clubs playing league games abroad in a revealing new interview.
Ask any fan of a Bundesliga club which league is most likely to play league games abroad, and the guaranteed answer is either La Liga, Premier League, or both. Mention the Bundesliga in that same conversation, and you’ll get an avalanche of reasons why the German league will never play overseas.
So, when the 39-year-old RB Leipzig executive addressed the topic last week, Plenge told World Soccer Talk, “I don’t see it [happening] in the near future, no.”
However, he didn’t rule it out from happening in the long term.
He said, “Never say no to anything. In the end, this is important, football has to develop its product the way the fans would like to have it. The fan is in the center of everything, and if the majority of the fans would like to adopt a format, or talk about where cup finals should take place, these are discussions you would have to be open for.”
Bundesliga playing overseas? More work needs to be done first
Plenge prefaced the surprise comment by mentioning all of the steps that need to happen before the possibility of playing games overseas.
“For us in Germany, [having games played overseas] is not a discussion we need to have at the moment. We have to have easier discussions such as how we can improve our product, strengthen the relationship with foreign broadcasters, etc. I think this is three, four, or five steps too far [ahead], but we should focus on the next immediate steps first. [For example], the tender of the Bundesliga is currently running.
“So we have to do our homework first there before we can talk about having Bundesliga matches somewhere out of Germany or even out of Europe.”
Plenge’s frank comments received some pushback from reporters.
Plenge reiterated, “I think [playing games overseas] should not be the discussion we’re having next season or the next two, three or four years. How performance will look like in ten or fifteen years, I would leave it up to the fans about how they would like to have it. The Bundesliga has to structure the competition the way the fans want it.
“We would not say categorically no to whatever the fans would like to have the structure and location of where to play Bundesliga matches.”
A telltale sign of where the Bundesliga’s head is at is the recent signing of a deal with Relevent Sports, the agency that is trying to bring La Liga games to the United States, who also work closely with the English Football League and UEFA Champions League. For instance, it’s no secret that there have been several reports about the possibility of EFL and Champions League games being played in the United States in the future, so the link up with Relevent is clear.
Relevent is the common thread that binds them all together. Not only that but Relevent will be handling the Bundesliga’s marketing and communications in the United States. That may mean a new broadcaster in the future, but it could open the door for games being played stateside too.
“[The Bundesliga clubs] have some great stories to tell. We have to tell and distribute them properly. This is what the Bundesliga is doing at the moment. We just had the Relevent deal in place for the Americas. We think this will help the Bundesliga to grow. We have to be more than brave to try out new things.”
Plenge discussed innovation in the Bundesliga and how an example of this was the RB Leipzig bodycam that was used during last summer’s friendly versus Aston Villa, as well as in a training session during preparations for a Champions League match last week.
RB Leipzig blazes a trail
RB Leipzig is among one of a small group of innovative, forward-thinking Bundesliga clubs that are pushing the envelope in Germany.
As Plenge explained, “The conversations we do have with Bayern, Borussia Dortmund, Leverkusen and Frankfurt, they’re very driven about the future of how we can innovate the Bundesliga. There are some clubs that are the frontrunners of these conversations, and we want to be part of these.
“But the others who are not the drivers, they are open to discuss and to hear. And then we have to evaluate the impact for the fan and the commercial impact.”
Overall, Germany itself appears to be struggling with half of the country wanting transformative change, while the other half wants to remain traditional. For instance, many of the country’s government offices still use fax machines, which is just one example of many of the excessive bureaucracy in Germany.
At the same time, Germany has been seen as one of the most innovative countries in the world. It’s this clash between tradition and innovation that appears to be happening in the Bundesliga too. For now, though, the ultimate decision about playing games overseas rests with the supporters of Bundesliga clubs. It’s not going to be happening anytime soon, but the fact that the conversation is even happening is a big leap (forward or backward, depending on your viewpoint) for German football.
Liverpool’s Italian winger, Federico Chiesa, might be on the move again. This time, back to Serie A, as several top Italian clubs express interest in a January loan deal. After joining Liverpool in a late summer transfer from Juventus, Chiesa has faced challenges settling into the Premier League. Particularly due to recurring fitness concerns and […]
Liverpool’s Italian winger, Federico Chiesa, might be on the move again. This time, back to Serie A, as several top Italian clubs express interest in a January loan deal. After joining Liverpool in a late summer transfer from Juventus, Chiesa has faced challenges settling into the Premier League. Particularly due to recurring fitness concerns and limited match time. This has reportedly prompted the Reds to consider a potential temporary move for the Italian star.
Liverpool’s $13 million acquisition of Chiesa seemed a bargain when the Reds signed the Euro 2020 winner from Juventus. The 27-year-old, however, arrived at Liverpool without a full preseason. The Bianconeri’s manager Thiago Motta had sidelined him, which contributed to his lack of fitness and match sharpness. Following a delayed start, Chiesa made his Liverpool debut in a Champions League match against Milan on September 17. He came on as a substitute in a 3-1 victory.
His debut was followed by a Premier League appearance off the bench against Bournemouth. He eventually started his first game for Liverpool in an EFL Cup clash against West Ham; impressing fans by providing an assist in a 5-1 win. However, since that promising outing, Chiesa has been limited by an unspecified injury. It has kept him on the sidelines and raised concerns over his readiness for the Premier League.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot emphasized the importance of Chiesa adapting to the physical demands of English soccer. “He missed a complete preseason… That has not so much to do with the Italian league or the Premier League, but with him missing a complete preseason, which is so difficult for every player”, he added. “It’s a big disappointment for him that he is going in and out of training sessions all the time. I feel sorry for him.”
January loan back to Serie A on the cards for Chiesa?
Reports suggest that Liverpool are considering a loan arrangement to help Chiesa regain consistent playing time. Given his previous success in Italy, several top Serie A clubs, including Inter, Milan, and Roma, are said to be monitoring the winger’s situation. They are supposedly eager to bring him back to familiar territory where he has enjoyed much success.
Liverpool might agree to a loan if the right terms are met, including coverage of a portion of Chiesa’s $8 million annual salary. However, sources indicate that they are unlikely to consider any permanent transfer. Chiesa, who has a deal with the English giants until 2028, remains part of the club’s long-term plans despite his current setbacks. The Italian has a history of ailments that have reduced his market worth and restricted his playing time with Juventus. His current health difficulties are only the latest setback in this unfortunate trend.
Since joining Liverpool, the talented forward has only been available for three games, marking a challenging adaptation period amid fitness limitations and the high intensity of the Premier League. Nonetheless, he remains a player with strong potential. His stellar record with Fiorentina and Juventus, where he played in 235 games and contributed consistently, is proof of this. In that time, he scored 47 goals and added 43 assists.
Chiesa’s value as long-term asset for Liverpool
While Liverpool is open to options for Chiesa to regain form, the club recognizes the potential benefits of keeping him. With Liverpool competing in multiple tournaments, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, having depth on the bench, particularly in the winger position, could prove advantageous.
The winger also offers a valuable alternative for Liverpool should Mohamed Salah or other attacking players face injuries later in the season. Slot noted, “He signed a long-term contract so we will see what he brings for us,” underscoring Liverpool’s intent to maintain Chiesa as a key figure in the squad despite his early challenges.
Some analysts argue that a move back to Serie A could help Chiesa regain his previous form, while others believe that staying in Liverpool could allow him more time to adapt to the Premier League’s unique demands. Chiesa’s return to Italy, even temporarily, would allow him to play more consistently in an environment he knows well and regain the confidence needed to perform at his peak.
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