In 2026, Jetstar is set to revolutionize its international flight offerings with a range of exciting new routes and expanded services. The airline is taking bold steps to grow its global presence, with new destinations in Bali, South Asia, and New Zealand, alongside a significant investment in Melbourne’s Avalon Airport. These moves are expected to enhance Jetstar’s position in the competitive international aviation market, offering more options for travellers to explore both regional and long-haul destinations.

New International Connections: Jetstar Takes Flight to South Asia

One of the most notable developments in Jetstar’s 2026 strategy is its expansion into South Asia. The airline will commence operations on its first-ever route to the region, with flights departing from Melbourne Avalon Airport to South Asia starting 25 August 2026. This direct service will run three times weekly, utilizing the modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its long-range capabilities and fuel efficiency.

The introduction of this new route highlights Jetstar’s commitment to tapping into South Asia’s growing tourism market. With increased demand for travel between Australia and South Asia, this new connection will offer tourists and business travellers alike a more affordable and efficient option for reaching the region.

Major Investment in Melbourne Avalon Airport

In addition to the new routes, Jetstar is making a significant investment in Melbourne Avalon Airport, enhancing its operational capacity and expanding its services. Starting on 23 March 2026, the airline will introduce a new service to Avalon, operating five times weekly with the Airbus A321LR aircraft, known for its efficiency and comfort on medium-haul flights. This expansion is set to provide a significant boost to Avalon’s airport traffic and is expected to improve access to Melbourne’s growing tourism market.

Avalon Airport’s increasing importance as a key hub for Jetstar is a reflection of the airline’s strategic growth plans in Victoria, offering more flight options for both domestic and international travellers. The new service will not only bolster tourism but will also contribute to the region’s economic growth by creating more jobs and increasing business opportunities in the area.

Sunshine Coast to Bali: A New Direct Connection

Jetstar is also tapping into the burgeoning demand for travel to Bali, with a new direct service from Sunshine Coast to Denpasar, launching on 24 March 2026. This direct flight offers a seamless connection to Bali via a brief 90-minute stop in Singapore. The new route makes it easier than ever for Australian tourists to access Bali’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and world-renowned resorts, reinforcing Bali’s status as one of the top holiday destinations for Australian travellers.

The Sunshine Coast to Bali route is expected to become particularly popular among Queenslanders looking for an affordable and direct travel option to the Indonesian paradise. This new connection offers travellers a convenient, hassle-free gateway to one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved destinations.

Connecting Newcastle to Singapore with a One-Stop Service

Another exciting addition to Jetstar’s network is the new service connecting Newcastle to Singapore, which will commence on 29 March 2026. This service will operate four times weekly, providing a one-stop, same-plane connection to Singapore, making it easier for Newcastle residents to access the bustling metropolis and surrounding destinations in Asia. With a smooth and efficient connection, this route is expected to attract both leisure and business travellers looking for a reliable, affordable way to reach Singapore and beyond.

Brisbane to Rarotonga: A First for Jetstar

Jetstar’s commitment to expanding its reach into the South Pacific is further demonstrated by the introduction of a new direct flight between Brisbane and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. This service, set to begin in May 2026, will mark the first-ever direct flight between the two destinations. Rarotonga, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, is a popular destination for Australians seeking a tropical getaway.

This new route strengthens Jetstar’s position as a leading carrier in the South Pacific, offering affordable travel options to one of the region’s most sought-after destinations. The addition of this route is also expected to benefit Rarotonga’s tourism industry by making it more accessible to international visitors.

Seasonal Service to Queenstown: A Gateway to New Zealand’s Adventure Capital

Jetstar is also expanding its services to New Zealand, with a seasonal service between Brisbane and Queenstown, launching 15 June 2026. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown attracts travellers with its stunning landscapes, world-class ski resorts, and outdoor activities. This new service will offer a direct connection to one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist hubs, providing Australians with an affordable option to explore this picturesque destination during peak travel seasons.

Increased Frequencies on Existing Routes

In addition to these exciting new routes, Jetstar is also increasing the frequency of its existing flights to New Zealand and Trans-Tasman destinations. From October 2025 to May 2026, Jetstar will operate up to 11 daily flights between Auckland and Christchurch, offering more flexibility and convenience for passengers. Other frequency increases include the Auckland-Dunedin route, which will see an increase to 10 flights per week, and the Auckland-Brisbane route, which will operate twice daily. These changes will help accommodate the growing demand for travel between Australia and New Zealand, further strengthening Jetstar’s presence in the region.

Jetstar’s Commitment to Growing Its International Network

Jetstar’s strategic route expansions and increased frequencies for 2026 are a testament to the airline’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of international travellers. By focusing on both new, high-demand destinations and increasing the capacity on existing routes, Jetstar is positioning itself to remain a key player in the competitive airline market.

The expansion of Jetstar’s network will not only benefit passengers but will also help stimulate economic growth in the regions it serves. Increased tourism and improved connectivity to key markets such as South Asia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific will generate more revenue, create jobs, and support local businesses across Australia and beyond.

Conclusion

Jetstar’s ambitious route expansions for 2026 reflect the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance its international connectivity and offer more diverse travel options for passengers. With new routes to Bali, South Asia, Rarotonga, and Queenstown, alongside increased services from Melbourne Avalon Airport, Jetstar is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for affordable, direct flights across the region. These developments highlight Jetstar’s commitment to providing more accessible travel options for Australians and international visitors alike, ensuring that 2026 will be another exciting year for the airline.

Singapore Airlines (SIA), the flagship carrier of Singapore and one of Asia’s most recognised airlines, has released its third‑quarter financial results for the fiscal year ended December 2025, reporting a significant 25.9 % rise in operating profit to S$792 million against record quarterly revenue of S$5.5 billion. This performance signifies resilient travel demand and strategic revenue management amid global aviation recovery. The earnings results reflect fundamental travel market dynamics, with robust passenger volumes supporting growth, even as net profit declined sharply due to the absence of a one‑off accounting gain recognised in the previous year. For travellers and aviation stakeholders, these results offer insights into airline health, travel demand patterns, and broader sector performance.

Quick Summary

• Singapore Airlines reported record third‑quarter revenue of S$5.5 billion, up 5.5 % year‑on‑year.
• Operating profit rose 25.9 % to S$792 million in Q3 FY2026.
• Net profit fell about 68.9 % to S$505 million due to absence of a one‑off gain from the prior year.
• Passenger traffic increased, with 10.9 million travellers carried and strong load factors.
• Cargo revenue showed a slight decline, reflecting softer market conditions.

Record Revenue Driven by Passenger Demand

Singapore Airlines’ third‑quarter performance was anchored by strong demand across passenger segments, leading to a record quarterly revenue of S$5.5 billion, up 5.5 % compared to the same quarter a year ago. The carrier carried 10.9 million passengers, marking a 6.3 % increase year‑on‑year, with the passenger load factor improving slightly to 87.5 %. This sustained demand highlights recovery momentum for international travel, particularly on key routes across Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America.

For frequent travellers and holidaymakers, this robust revenue outcome indicates greater connectivity and potentially stronger flight schedules, as airlines often scale services in response to demand and yield performance. Higher traffic volumes also point to an uptick in forward bookings and leisure travel confidence, especially in long‑haul travel markets.

Operating Profit Growth Highlights Core Airline Strength

Despite macroeconomic pressures affecting global aviation, Singapore Airlines achieved an impressive 25.9 % increase in operating profit to S$792 million for Q3. This result suggests that the airline’s route optimisation, revenue management strategies, and cost discipline have helped offset rising fuel and operational costs. Improved passenger yields, which include higher average fares and better cabin mix performance, also contributed to the elevated operating result.

For travellers, improved operating performance can translate into more stable flight operations, enhanced onboard service offerings, and continued network expansion, as financially stronger airlines are better positioned to invest in customer experience and service reliability.

Net Profit Drop Reflects One‑Off Gain in Prior Year

While core operations were stronger, Singapore Airlines reported a 68.9 % decline in net profit to S$505 million compared to the prior year. This sharp drop primarily reflects the absence of a one‑off, non‑cash gain of S$1.1 billion that was recorded in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year due to the disposal of Vistara following its merger with Air India. Additionally, the airline’s share of losses from associated companies increased, including full‑quarter losses from Air India, which weighed further on bottom‑line figures.

From a travel perspective, this churn in net profit does not diminish the underlying strength of passenger demand and operational revenue growth; rather, it illustrates how accounting factors and investment outcomes can influence headline net earnings independent of travel business performance.

Passenger and Cargo Trends in Q3

Singapore Airlines’ mixed performance across segments shows notable resilience in passenger traffic, which remains the primary revenue driver. Cargo operations, however, experienced a slight year‑on‑year decline in load factor and yields, reflecting broader softness in global air freight markets. Despite the cargo segment’s contraction, the airline’s ability to lean on passenger performance underscores the growing importance of people travelling for both leisure and business, particularly as global tourism rebounds.

For travellers, this signals that airfares may remain competitive on routes with strong leisure demand, although cargo trends might influence pricing strategies for belly cargo capacity on passenger flights.

Advantages for Passengers

Enhanced Flight Connectivity: Strong revenue growth and passenger demand often support fuller flight schedules and expanded seasonal services, benefiting travellers with more options.

Market Confidence: Rising operating profits reflect airline stability, reassuring business and leisure travellers about service continuity and reliability.

Potential Service Investments: Financial strength enables airlines like Singapore Airlines to invest in cabin upgrades, digital services, and loyalty benefits.

Yield Recovery Signals: Early signs of improved fare yields may stabilise pricing over time, reducing extreme fare volatility for certain key routes.

Disadvantages and Considerations

Net Profit Volatility: Despite strong revenue and operating growth, bottom‑line earnings volatility due to accounting gains or partner company performance can complicate investor sentiment.

Cargo Segment Weakness: Slower cargo performance could limit ancillary revenue that airlines use to subsidise lower passenger fares on some services.

Route Planning Uncertainty: Financial fluctuations might influence network decisions in marginal markets, potentially affecting service frequency or capacity on less profitable routes.

Fare Pressure Variability: While pricing recovery is emerging, fare competition and seasonality can still lead to unpredictable ticket prices.

What This Means for Travellers

Singapore Airlines’ Q3 results illustrate a robust operating performance and record revenue, underpinned by continued global travel demand. The 25.9 % rise in operating profit and strong passenger numbers reflect an industry adapting to post‑pandemic dynamics, where leisure travel and network optimisation drive growth. Travellers can interpret these results as a sign of airline financial resilience, expanded service reliability, and evolving connectivity opportunities. Nonetheless, fluctuations in net profit due to one‑off items and cargo market softness remind travellers that airline economics are multifaceted. Overall, healthy revenue and operating profitability point to positive momentum in the aviation landscape, particularly for frequent flyers and international tourists.

This spring, visitors to the lush island of Madeira will experience the island’s famed Flower Parade in a completely new way as organisers announce the event will be held over two Sundays in 2026 rather than the traditional single day. For many locals and tourists alike, the announcement has stirred excitement and heartfelt anticipation. Families planning holidays, couples seeking romantic getaways, and international travellers drawn to cultural celebrations are already revising itineraries to make the most of this expanded floral spectacle.

The decision, made by Madeira’s regional cultural and tourism authorities, reflects a thoughtful effort to spread joy, manage crowd flows more effectively and allow deeper engagement with one of Portugal’s most memorable spring events. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Funchal’s coastal boulevards and verdant hillsides, the two Sunday parades are expected to energise the island’s tourism scene while delivering twice the floral wonder and celebratory spirit.

A FESTIVAL ROOTED IN MADEIRA’S IDENTITY AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Madeira’s Flower Festival — known locally as Festa da Flor — honours the island’s rich botanical heritage and the arrival of spring with breathtaking creative expressions made entirely of flowers. Held annually in Funchal, the festival traditionally culminates with a grand parade where colourful floats, floral sculptures, traditional costumes and dance groups captivate residents and visitors alike. According to official event calendars posted by tourism authorities, the 2026 festival will run from late April through May, with the central parade taking place on Sunday 3 May and, for the first time ever, Sunday 17 May.

The bustling route along Avenida do Mar in Funchal has long served as the vibrant stage where local florists, community groups and artists showcase their creativity. Extending this to two Sundays allows more flexibility for attendees and participants and reduces crowding so every visitor can savour the floral artistry at a relaxed pace.

WHAT DRIVES THE TWO‑SUNDAY FORMAT: TOURISM PLANNING AND VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Officials from the Madeira Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Culture and Environment and the broader Visit Madeira promotional authority explained that the shift is part of a broader strategic vision to enhance the festival’s accessibility and cultural impact. By spreading the parade over two Sundays, organisers aim to:

• Ease Crowd Pressure: Allow visitors to enjoy parade views without the intense congestion of a single day, improving comfort and safety.
• Better Participation: Give each performance group and float designer more spotlight time and reduce logistical constraints on busy artists and volunteers.
• Boost Tourism: Encourage longer stays on the island, as travellers can plan to attend either or both parade dates.

This approach aligns with Madeira’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a year‑round destination for cultural tourism, not just a summer beach locale.

VIBRANT SCHEDULES AND FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS ACROSS MADEIRA

Beyond the main parade spectacles, the Flower Festival in 2026 will include a wide array of events celebrating nature, art and community spirit. Key elements of the festival schedule include:

• Flower Market: From late April to late May, central Funchal streets will host floral displays and local artisan stalls offering plants, floral products, crafts and regional delicacies.
• Classic Car Flower Parade: Scheduled for 10 May, this charming procession combines vintage automobiles and floral decorations as an artistic expression of heritage and creativity.
• Cultural Shows & Music: Throughout the month‑long celebration, venues across the island will host concerts, dance performances and floral exhibitions that reflect Madeira’s rich traditions and contemporary culture.
• Children’s “Wall of Hope”: A beloved community activity where children place flowers on a symbolic structure representing hope and renewal.

These colourful and diverse programmes are designed to engage visitors of all ages and deepen their connection with Madeira’s spirit and landscape.

TOURISM IMPACT: BOOSTING VISITOR NUMBERS AND EXTENDING STAYS

Madeira’s tourism industry sees a significant boost each spring due to the Flower Festival’s draw. According to regional tourism statistics and travel industry analysis, hotel occupancy rates during festival weeks routinely climb, with many visitors planning multi‑day stays specifically to catch the parade and related activities. The introduction of two parade dates is expected to lengthen the period when visitors feel encouraged to arrive and stay longer, strengthening the economic effect on hotels, restaurants, transport providers and cultural venues.

For local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and service sectors, the extended parade format presents an opportunity to welcome more visitors and showcase Madeira’s unique blend of scenic beauty, warm culture and vibrant street life.

LOCAL ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Residents of Funchal and the wider Madeira region embrace the Flower Festival as a source of pride and cultural identity. Floral artistry is deeply embedded in the island’s heritage; many families participate in preparations, from planting and arranging flowers to costuming and volunteer coordination. The two‑Sunday format reflects not just a tourism strategy but also a celebration of collective local creativity, inviting broader participation from schools, clubs, artisans and cultural organisations across Madeira.

For many residents, the festival is also a symbolic celebration of renewal after the quieter winter months — a moment when communities come together to share beauty and joy with the world.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR ATTENDEES AND INTERNATIONAL VISITORS

Travel planners and festival guides advise visitors considering travel to Madeira during the Flower Festival to:

• Book Accommodation Early: With two parade Sundays on the calendar, hotels and guesthouses in Funchal fill quickly, especially during early May.
• Reserve Parade Views: Some viewing areas along Avenida do Mar may offer ticketed grandstands or reserved seating for better vantage points.
• Use Public Transport: Festival days often bring increased pedestrian traffic; public transport helps manage access to key vantage spots.
• Check Local Schedules: Event times and performance line‑ups may shift — staying updated through official Visit Madeira websites ensures smooth planning.

These simple tips help ensure travellers enjoy the festival’s best moments without stress.

LOOKING AHEAD: A FESTIVAL EVOLVING WITH GROWTH AND HEART

Organisers and tourism experts alike see the expanded Flower Parade format as a thoughtful evolution of Madeira’s spring festival — one that strengthens its cultural authenticity while meeting rising interest from global travellers. The two Sunday parades promise not just twice the floral spectacle but also a more relaxed, immersive experience for visitors eager to explore one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations.

HUMANISED CLOSING PARAGRAPH

For visitors and families who have watched Madeira’s flower displays blossom into a treasured global event, the news of two parade Sundays feels like an invitation to celebrate deeper and longer. From first‑time international travellers to lifelong residents of Funchal who watch flowers float down the avenue year after year, the festival carries meaning beyond pageantry — it is a celebration of renewal, of community and of the simple joy that flowers bring into our lives. In 2026, with twice the opportunity to marvel at blooms and join in the music, laughter, colour and cheer, Madeira’s Flower Parade promises to be more than an event — it will be a cherished, unforgettable experience.

Deeply valued guests, Princess Hotels and Resorts Jamaica is excited to announce the reopening of Princess Grand Jamaica on March 1, 2026. This event will mark the return of the brand dual – resort experience on the breathtaking North Coast of Jamaica. With the recent reopening of Princess Senses The Mangrove on February 1, the resort offers two unique experiences to guests. While Princess Grand Jamaica is designed to create an animated, family atmosphere and has space to accommodate larger groups, Princess Senses The Mangrove, located next door, is more tranquil and serves as an adults-only escape. This will make Princess Grand Jamaica the perfect location for all types of guests, and in particular for multi – generational travel and long stays.

The natural beauty of Jamaica will also help Princess Grand Jamaica provide an unprecedented opportunity to families to reconnect and enjoy exciting activities, along with luxurious, spacious, oceanfront rooms. Princess Grand Jamaica will also mark an important milestone for Princess Hotels and Resorts, as the reopening of both venues will provide travelers with fully integrated services for an experience of a complete resort.

Princess Grand Jamaica: Family Friendly Resort

At Princess Grand Jamaica, multi-generational families are accommodated thanks to the various suite styles that are available. Each suite provides family members with magnificent, direct Caribbean views. Princess Grand Jamaica has 590 suites, and also includes Family and Master Suites that are ideal for large families and traveling groups.

An exciting part of the Princess Grand Jamaica is the large water park and aquatics section. Families are able to make use of the resort’s nanny services for young children, and Club Rio Kids and Club Rio Teens services, so that the adults can take a break and relax. The resort also features several calm Caribbean-exploration activities that can be done at your own leisure, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, and these activities can be completed at your own choosing.

Guests of the Princess Grand Jamaica can enjoy more than just the pool or the beach. Organized events include themed evenings, live shows, and entertainment to suit every age. The program is sure to include events that all family members will enjoy, with options to engage and entertain children, adults, and grandparents.

Dining with Princess Grand Jamaica is a culinary journey and an experience that every five-star hotel must offer. The themed bars and restaurants, with their professional staff, deliver an experience of stunning Jamaican and foreign dishes, with options including buffet, casual dining, or à la carte. The Jamaican beach hotel is designed to provide the fullest experience of the very best and freshest Jamaican cuisine. Guests of the hotel have the opportunity to enjoy themed evenings with carefully selected dishes from the Caribbean and various Jamaican islands. Those staying at Princess Grand Jamaica will also have numerous bars and lounges where they can enjoy a cocktail or two in a casual atmosphere while gazing at the lush beach from the terrace.

Spring Into Savings: Special Promotions

Princess Grand Jamaica is welcoming guests back with a ‘Spring Into Savings’ Special. Guests can save 60% on their stay with promotional bookings from March 1–31, 2026, with travel dates from March 1, 2026, to October 31, 2027. This offer has multiple blackout dates and restrictions. Although this offers limited dates to travel, it is an excellent value for guests to book a family vacation at the Princess Hotels & Resorts.

This offer is a representation of Princess Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to the luxury vacation experience for families and allows guests to experience Princess Grand Jamaica at a fraction of its cost.

The Role of Princess Senses The Mangrove

Customarily, at Princess Grand Jamaica, Princess Hotels & Resorts provides a tranquil and exclusive atmosphere for adults at The Mangrove, which benefits from being adjacent to Grand Jamaica. The Mangrove is an Adults-Only retreat that is now open as of February 1, 2026. It completes the atmosphere of Princess Grand Jamaica very well and provides a space for couples or adults who want a relaxing retreat.

With overwater wellness services, fine dining, and wellness, Princess Senses the Mangrove provides a tranquil balance to the vibrant, family-diverse energy at Princess Grand Jamaica. The joint partnership provides guests the opportunity to personalize their vacations to their desired tastes, whether it be fun or calm, or a combination of both, at this one-of-a-kind location.

Prestige and Awards for Princess Grand Jamaica

With the array of services provided by Princess Grand Jamaica, it comes as no surprise that the hotel has received numerous accolades. At the most recent World MICE Awards, it was the World’s and Caribbean’s Best New MICE hotel for 2025, as well as the World’s Best New MICE hotel. This has been awarded to them specifically for their potential for meeting, incentives, and group travel. These two awards add to the family and corporate group vacationing praise given to the hotel that is flexible and luxurious.

A New Resort Experience

Now that Princess Hotels & Resorts Jamaica has reopened Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove, they are once again offering a wide variety of vacation experiences for all travelers. The dual-resort concept is a great example of brand identity, offering flexibility, variety, and scale perfect for multigenerational travel. Visitors are able to enjoy the vibrant Princess Grand Jamaica, while couples and adults looking for a more calm and relaxing atmosphere can enjoy the adjacent resort, Princess Senses The Mangrove.

This integrated resort concept provides all visitors the ability to customize their stay, ensuring that they will create lasting memories in one of the most stunning locations throughout the Caribbean.

Conclusion

The Princess Grand Jamaica is now open after renovations. It is welcoming for families and adds to the offerings of Princess Hotels & Resorts. There is no other competitor when it comes to family and group vacations. There is nothing but water activities, loads of dining and accommodations, and two resorts connected. Princess Grand Jamaica will offer customers all of Jamaica’s true hospitality.

Princess Hotels & Resorts shows its commitment to its customers and world-class offerings through its ongoing innovations.

This year’s Spring Festival has seen a significant shift in travel patterns. Chinese tourists are increasingly choosing Southeast Asia over traditional favourites. Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia have seen a surge in bookings. Tour operators report that flights and hotels are filling faster than in previous years.

The appeal is clear. Southeast Asia offers warm weather, vibrant cultures, and affordable experiences. From tropical beaches to bustling markets, travellers are seeking both relaxation and adventure. Many travellers prefer short-haul flights and visa-friendly options. These destinations provide everything from family-friendly tours to immersive cultural activities, making them highly attractive for holidaymakers.

South Korea’s Growing Popularity

South Korea has also become a top choice for Spring Festival travellers. Cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island are attracting large numbers of visitors. Tourists are drawn to the mix of modern cities, historic sites, and cultural festivals.

Travel agencies note that younger tourists are particularly interested in urban experiences and shopping. Meanwhile, families enjoy traditional markets and scenic spots. South Korea’s safe environment, easy travel logistics, and welcoming atmosphere have strengthened its appeal. Many travellers see it as a convenient alternative to longer or more complicated trips.

Japan Experiences a Decline

In contrast, Japan has seen a decline in arrivals from Chinese tourists this Spring Festival. Cities that were previously crowded with holiday visitors report significantly lower numbers. Analysts suggest multiple reasons, including political concerns and logistical challenges.

Although Japan’s cultural heritage remains unmatched, many travellers now prioritise convenience, accessibility, and cost. Short-haul alternatives like Thailand and South Korea provide attractive experiences without the same travel complications. For global tourists, this is a reminder that even well-established destinations must adapt to changing travel preferences.

Long-Haul Destinations Gain Attention

Beyond Asia, other destinations are gaining interest. Countries like Oman, Kazakhstan, South Africa, Qatar, and Argentina have seen growth in bookings during this season. Travellers are increasingly open to exploring less conventional destinations that offer unique experiences.

Flight bookings to cities worldwide show that global tourists are balancing the desire for cultural exploration with travel safety and comfort. Many choose locations with favourable weather, convenient flight options, and immersive experiences. This trend shows that travellers are thinking strategically, seeking both novelty and accessibility.

Travel Insights for Global Tourists

For those planning holidays, several trends are worth noting. Shorter flights are highly preferred, particularly for family trips. Destinations that combine safety, culture, and convenience see the highest visitor numbers. Visa-friendly policies, local festivals, and affordable hospitality are key factors influencing choices.

Southeast Asia offers colourful celebrations, lively festivals, and beach resorts that cater to all ages. Thailand, for instance, is famous for its flower parades, temple ceremonies, and traditional markets. South Korea offers urban adventures, street food experiences, and scenic coastal escapes. Global travellers can take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy a safe, culturally rich holiday.

Top Recommendations

For the 2026 Spring Festival season, these destinations stand out:

• Thailand: Beaches, cultural festivals, markets, and vibrant city life.
• South Korea: Urban exploration, traditional sites, street food, and coastal scenery.
• Singapore: Modern city experiences, family-friendly attractions, and cultural diversity.
• Malaysia & Vietnam: Emerging favourites with multi-destination itineraries and natural beauty.

Combining short-haul trips with immersive experiences ensures a memorable holiday. Travellers are choosing convenience, variety, and cultural richness over established norms.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Spring Festival travel trends highlight a shift in how tourists choose destinations. Southeast Asia and South Korea are leading the way, offering attractive alternatives to Japan. Travellers now prioritise accessibility, affordability, and culturally immersive experiences.

For global tourists, this is an ideal time to explore these regions. Whether seeking vibrant city adventures, tropical relaxation, or family-friendly cultural tours, the options are abundant. The new travel patterns suggest that successful destinations are those that combine convenience, warmth, and unique experiences, providing unforgettable memories for all.

In an age when cruise ships are growing larger every year, one luxury brand is choosing a different course. Seabourn has confirmed that its current fleet size is exactly where it needs to be. The company has also made it clear that it is not seeking a sale or major structural change. For travellers, this decision carries meaningful implications for how luxury cruising will evolve in the coming years.

Rather than chasing scale, Seabourn is reinforcing a philosophy rooted in intimacy, destination depth, and personalised experiences. This approach reflects a broader shift in the travel and tourism industry, where discerning travellers are increasingly prioritising quality over quantity.

A Clear Signal to Luxury Travellers Worldwide

For global travellers planning high-end ocean journeys, stability matters. Seabourn’s decision to remain “right-sized” offers reassurance. It means the cruise line is not under pressure to dilute its product to support larger ships or higher passenger volumes. Instead, it can continue refining what it already does best.

This clarity helps travellers plan with confidence. It signals that future itineraries, onboard service standards, and destination experiences will remain consistent. In a travel landscape shaped by rapid expansion and consolidation, such steadiness is rare and valuable.

Why Smaller Ships Create Richer Journeys

From a tourism perspective, smaller luxury ships open doors that larger vessels simply cannot. Many culturally significant ports, scenic coastal towns, and environmentally sensitive regions restrict access to mega-ships. Seabourn’s fleet size allows it to reach these places with ease.

For travellers, this translates into quieter harbours, less crowded shore visits, and deeper engagement with local culture. Guests can step directly into destinations rather than navigating busy terminals. This style of travel aligns with the growing demand for immersive, slow, and meaningful tourism experiences.

Fleet Changes Without Disruption to the Travel Experience

As part of its fleet management, Seabourn has confirmed the planned transition of one vessel out of service following the completion of its scheduled voyages. Importantly, this change has been designed to minimise disruption for guests and travel partners.

From a traveller’s point of view, the key takeaway is continuity. Scheduled sailings will operate as planned before the transition takes place. This careful handling reflects an industry-aware approach that prioritises guest trust and long-term brand value.

A Strategic Focus, Not a Retreat

Some travellers may wonder whether a stable fleet signals caution or slowdown. In reality, it reflects strategic confidence. Seabourn’s leadership views its existing fleet as well-matched to its brand promise and guest expectations.

Rather than investing in more ships, the focus is on enhancing onboard programming, refining itineraries, and elevating guest experiences. For travellers, this means more thoughtful route planning, stronger destination storytelling, and refined onboard enrichment.

What This Means for World and Long-Duration Cruises

For travellers considering extended voyages or world cruises, Seabourn’s approach offers a compelling proposition. Smaller ships are particularly well-suited to long journeys. They allow for flexible routing, varied port access, and a strong sense of community onboard.

Long-duration travellers often value comfort, familiarity, and attentive service. A right-sized fleet supports these priorities by maintaining favourable guest-to-staff ratios and avoiding the overstimulation common on very large ships.

A Broader Trend in Premium Tourism

Seabourn’s direction reflects a wider trend across premium tourism sectors. High-end travellers are increasingly seeking experiences that feel exclusive without being excessive. They want access, authenticity, and ease.

By choosing refinement over expansion, Seabourn positions itself firmly within this movement. It appeals to travellers who see luxury not as scale, but as space, silence, and substance.

Guidance for Travellers Planning Ahead

For those planning future cruises, this development encourages a more considered approach. Travellers should look beyond ship size and focus on itinerary quality, port diversity, and the ability to explore destinations in depth.

Seabourn’s steady fleet strategy suggests that its future voyages will continue to emphasise exploration over entertainment, and discovery over spectacle.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

In a rapidly evolving cruise market, Seabourn’s decision stands out for its clarity and restraint. For global travellers, it reinforces the idea that the most memorable journeys are not always the biggest ones.

By staying true to its scale and values, Seabourn is shaping a future where luxury travel feels personal, purposeful, and deeply connected to the world it explores.

Malaysia is gearing up for another record-breaking year in tourism with its bold strategy to attract 47 million visitors by 2026. After a successful 2025, the nation is betting on unique and immersive experiences to set it apart from its Southeast Asian neighbours. Food pilgrimages, wildlife treks, and farm stays are among the highlights of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, which aims to appeal to a growing demand for authentic, “live-like-a-local” experiences. This focus on niche tourism offerings is expected to further elevate Malaysia’s appeal and help sustain the tourism boom the country has been experiencing.

Durian Trails: A Unique Culinary Experience

One of Malaysia’s most distinctive offerings is its durian trails, with the country’s durian orchards gaining significant attention from food enthusiasts and adventurous tourists alike. Durian, a much-loved yet polarising fruit, is gaining popularity as a niche experience for visitors seeking out Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage. Visitors can embark on a journey to orchards like Bloopy Durians in central Malaysia, where tourists brave the challenging terrain to experience the fruit in its native environment. These farm visits provide an authentic experience where tourists can learn about the cultivation of durians and even spend the night on the farm, sampling the fruit straight from the trees.

For tourists like Harliandy Salim from Indonesia, the trip offers a chance to savour the unique taste of Malaysian durians, which are famed for their distinct flavour. Salim, who has visited Malaysia several times, explained that while durians are also found in Indonesia, the flavour of Malaysian durians stands out. This insight highlights the draw of local food experiences that tourists are increasingly seeking in today’s travel landscape.

Wildlife Treks and Rural Escapes: A Growing Trend

Malaysia is not just a culinary destination; it also offers abundant natural beauty and biodiversity, which is being promoted through wildlife treks and rural escapes. The country’s rich ecosystems are a key part of its tourism growth strategy, with areas like the Kinabatangan River in Sabah state becoming increasingly popular. The region is known for its wildlife, where tourists often spot pygmy elephants and orangutans in their natural habitats. These experiences are ideal for eco-tourists and nature lovers, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a destination for sustainable and experiential tourism.

In addition to wildlife experiences, rural escapes are becoming a significant draw. Tourists are seeking immersive stays in indigenous communities, where they can participate in local festivals and traditions. These “live-like-a-local” experiences are particularly appealing to travellers who want to engage with local cultures in a meaningful way, rather than just passively observing from a distance.

Expanding Flight Connectivity and Visa-Free Access

The surge in Malaysia’s tourism numbers has been supported by improved flight connectivity and visa-free access for key markets. With more international visitors now able to travel to Malaysia without a visa, particularly those from major outbound markets like China and India, the country’s tourism industry is seeing more arrivals than ever before. Malaysia’s accessibility has helped it stand out as a viable alternative to other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand and Bali, which have traditionally dominated the region’s tourism market.

Additionally, the country’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination has grown, especially as some of its regional competitors face challenges. For example, Thailand has been grappling with safety concerns related to human trafficking, which has somewhat tarnished its image. In contrast, Malaysia has been able to capitalise on its stable environment and growing reputation as a destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Niche Tourism Offers: The Key to Standing Out

To sustain the growth seen in 2025, Malaysia is focusing on niche tourism products that appeal to specific types of travellers. As Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, noted, there is a clear shift from passive sightseeing to more active, immersive experiences. This change is evident in the increasing popularity of places like Kudat in Borneo, where stargazing has become a key attraction, especially among younger tourists seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Additionally, as global tourism becomes more competitive, Malaysia is positioning itself to cater to the demand for high-end tourism experiences. The country has developed several luxury resorts and is also planning the establishment of premium marina facilities in Johor, which is expected to attract affluent travellers, particularly from markets like China, Singapore, and Europe. These luxury offerings are expected to boost the country’s tourism receipts in 2026.

Tourism’s Economic Importance

Tourism plays a critical role in Malaysia’s economy, accounting for a substantial portion of the country’s GDP and providing millions of jobs. In 2025, Malaysia welcomed 42.2 million visitors, a record number, and the government is aiming for even higher numbers in 2026. The expected increase in international receipts, projected to reach RM329 billion in 2026, underscores the economic importance of tourism for Malaysia. As the government allocates over RM700 million (S$228 million) for the sector in 2026, the country is doubling down on its tourism efforts to drive continued growth.

The tourism sector’s importance has also become more pronounced in the wake of a challenging global trade environment. With exports facing difficulties, tourism has emerged as a key growth area for Malaysia’s economy, and the government is keen to ensure the sector remains competitive. The allocation of funds is expected to support further marketing efforts, tourism infrastructure development, and the promotion of unique experiences that set Malaysia apart from other countries in the region.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While Malaysia has made great strides in its tourism industry, there are still challenges to overcome. One of the main obstacles is the competition from regional peers, which are also striving to attract international tourists. For example, in a bid to revitalise its tourism sector, the Philippines has waived visas for Chinese visitors, while Vietnam and Thailand are also enhancing their offerings to appeal to high-spending tourists.

Despite these challenges, experts believe Malaysia’s diverse range of offerings, including its unique food experiences, wildlife treks, and immersive rural stays, will continue to draw visitors. However, analysts such as Ms. Hannah Pearson, Director of Pear Anderson, a Southeast Asia tourism consultancy, warn that the target of 47 million visitors in 2026 may require considerable marketing efforts. The country’s success will depend on its ability to further refine its tourism strategies and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving global tourism landscape.

Conclusion

With its strong focus on experiential travel, Malaysia is positioning itself as an attractive destination for tourists seeking unique and immersive experiences. From durian trails and wildlife treks to farm stays and indigenous cultural experiences, the country is offering something different to appeal to a wide range of travellers. The Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign aims to build on the successes of 2025, driving continued growth in the sector. With the right investments in infrastructure, targeted marketing, and niche tourism products, Malaysia is poised to make further strides in its tourism ambitions, attracting a growing number of visitors in the years ahead.

The Lunar New Year travel trends in 2026 are creating a major shift in Asia’s tourism map. Japan, once a top destination for Chinese and international visitors, has seen a drop in arrivals. Meanwhile, Thailand is attracting more tourists than ever, becoming a hotspot for holidaymakers. Experts suggest that the timing of the Lunar New Year played a key role in altering visitor flows. Global travellers looking to plan holidays in Asia need to be aware of these changes to make smarter travel choices.

Japan’s Visitor Numbers Fall

Japan welcomed fewer tourists during the Lunar New Year period of 2026. Official data suggests a noticeable drop compared to previous years. Analysts attribute this decline to the shift in holiday timing, as the Lunar New Year occurred later than usual. Many tourists who would have visited in January postponed their trips, affecting hotels, airlines, and sightseeing spots. For travellers, this means that planning according to holiday dates is critical. Japan remains a cultural hub, but the smaller crowds provide a quieter and more relaxed experience this year.

Changing Chinese Travel Patterns

China has historically been the largest source of visitors to Japan during Lunar New Year. However, in 2026, fewer Chinese tourists travelled to Japan. Factors include changing travel habits, cost considerations, and alternative destinations gaining popularity. Many opted for Thailand, seeking beaches, festivals, and more affordable options. This demonstrates how holiday timing and regional trends influence tourism flows. Tourists planning trips to Japan should consider these fluctuations and book early to secure the best experiences.

Other Markets Step In

While Chinese visitor numbers fell, Japan still saw strong arrivals from South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. South Korea even became the largest source of tourists in January 2026. This trend highlights how diverse travel markets are helping maintain Japan’s tourism industry. Travellers can benefit from this by exploring attractions that might usually be crowded. From snowy mountains to historic temples, Japan continues to offer unique experiences without the heavy tourist traffic seen in previous years.

Thailand Emerges as Top Choice

Thailand has capitalised on these shifts, drawing significant numbers of international tourists during Lunar New Year 2026. Popular locations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai saw strong arrivals. Warm beaches, cultural festivals, and accessible infrastructure make Thailand highly appealing. Many Chinese travellers and others seeking sun, festivals, and vibrant street life chose Thailand over Japan. For tourists, this presents an opportunity to explore diverse experiences while avoiding more crowded destinations.

Smart Tips for Travellers

Global travellers must plan strategically during the Lunar New Year period. Early booking is essential to secure flights and hotels in high-demand areas. Considering alternative destinations like Thailand can provide a more enjoyable experience with fewer crowds. Travellers should monitor official tourism calendars, check local travel advisories, and adjust travel dates according to changing holiday schedules. Families, solo travellers, and couples can all benefit by being flexible and exploring new destinations in Asia. Planning with awareness ensures the best experience during peak travel times.

What This Means for Travel in 2026

The Lunar New Year travel trends 2026 show that Asia’s tourism landscape is changing. Japan, while still attractive, has fewer visitors during the holiday season. Thailand, on the other hand, is emerging as a preferred choice for international travellers. Tourists can enjoy both cultural richness and beach resorts while avoiding overcrowding. These shifts highlight the importance of flexibility, early planning, and attention to travel patterns. For anyone planning Lunar New Year trips, understanding these trends is key to enjoying a rewarding and stress-free holiday.

In a recent study by Tourism Australia, Bate Bay in southern Sydney has been named the best destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Among the top 10 beaches listed for 2026, Bate Bay stands out due to its tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for a quiet escape. With its sprawling 4.8-kilometre stretch of sand and calm ocean pools, this coastal haven offers visitors a unique opportunity to unwind and experience Australia’s serene beachside lifestyle.

Tourism Australia’s 2026 list was compiled after an extensive survey of over 12,500 beaches across the nation. The evaluation, which was conducted by Beach Ambassador Brad Farmer, considered multiple factors, including accessibility, natural beauty, and the ability to offer a ‘slow-travel’ experience. Bate Bay earned its spot at the top for its pristine environment and the peaceful atmosphere it provides.

A Tranquil Coastal Experience

Bate Bay, located in the heart of Cronulla, New South Wales, is home to nine stunning beaches, including some of Sydney’s longest, like the iconic Greenhills, Wanda, and Elouera beaches. This area is not only known for its scenic coastline but also for its quiet charm. It is a perfect example of Australia’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes while offering accessible coastal experiences. As noted by Brad Farmer, the beaches of Bate Bay are relatively untouched by large crowds, making them ideal for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

What sets Bate Bay apart is its blend of natural beauty and practical amenities. The area features four ocean pools, which are perfect for swimming and relaxing in the clear waters without the disturbance of waves. Gunnamatta Bay’s still-water bathing enclosure provides a peaceful spot for those preferring calm waters. The tranquil surroundings are complemented by the easy accessibility from the city centre via train, making it an attractive option for both local and international visitors seeking a quick retreat into nature.

The Criteria for Choosing Australia’s Quietest Beaches

Tourism Australia’s top 10 list was curated with a special focus on “quiet” beaches. Brad Farmer explains that the primary criterion for selecting these beaches was their ability to offer a peaceful, unhurried experience. In contrast to more tourist-heavy spots, these beaches maintain a calm ambiance, where visitors can enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves and the wind, rather than the noise of large crowds. Farmer highlights remote locations like Beachcomber Cove and Hellfire Bay, which are noted for their “slow-travel” appeal, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in nature and reflect on the area’s rich First Nations history.

These beaches are more than just quiet; they also hold cultural significance. Many, like those in Bate Bay, are steeped in stories passed down by the First Nations peoples, adding a layer of cultural depth to the experience. These factors combined make them a unique choice for those looking to escape the demands of modern life and reconnect with nature.

Promoting Regional Tourism and Economic Growth

In his comments, Tourism Minister Senator Don Farrell emphasized the role of regional beaches in boosting local economies. The quiet, undisturbed beauty of these beaches offers an opportunity to draw visitors away from the traditional tourist hotspots, thereby supporting local businesses and creating jobs in regional areas. Farrell also noted that the flow of American tourists to Australia had never been stronger, with 745,000 Americans visiting the country in the previous year and spending over $2 billion. Tourism Australia aims to capitalize on this interest by promoting lesser-known destinations, such as Bate Bay, which offer authentic and peaceful experiences.

As Robin Mack, Managing Director of Tourism Australia, mentioned, the annual list of top beaches not only serves as a guide for visitors but also helps raise awareness about the importance of preserving Australia’s coastal ecosystems. It encourages travelers to explore areas outside of the usual hotspots, promoting sustainable tourism and contributing to the growth of regional tourism.

Other Notable Beaches in Australia’s Top 10 List

Aside from Bate Bay, other notable beaches that made the cut include Pinky Beach in Western Australia, Beachcomber Cove in Queensland, and Tallow Beach in New South Wales. These destinations, like Bate Bay, offer visitors a chance to experience the serenity and natural beauty of Australia’s coastline. Each location has been carefully selected for its ability to provide a quiet escape, where visitors can enjoy the simplicity of nature without distractions.

Hellfire Bay in Western Australia and Godfreys Beach in Tasmania also made the list, standing out for their remote charm and the sense of peace they offer. For those looking to explore other parts of Australia, these locations provide unique opportunities to enjoy the country’s diverse natural landscapes.

A Sustainable Future for Australia’s Beaches

As more travelers seek out sustainable and quiet destinations, Australia’s beaches are becoming increasingly important for promoting eco-tourism. The country’s pristine coastline, from the quiet bays of Bate Bay to the rugged beauty of the Tasmanian beaches, plays a significant role in attracting environmentally-conscious visitors. By highlighting lesser-known beaches, Tourism Australia is helping to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that these beautiful locations remain untouched by overdevelopment.

The effort to promote these quiet escapes also ties into broader global tourism trends, where travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that allow them to slow down, disconnect, and appreciate nature’s simplicity. The beauty of Bate Bay and its fellow beaches lies not only in their physical characteristics but also in their ability to offer a retreat from the stresses of daily life, making them a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape in 2026 and beyond.

Conclusion

With its breathtaking coastline, accessible location, and serene atmosphere, Bate Bay in southern Sydney has rightfully earned its place as the best beach for a quiet escape in Australia. Tourism Australia’s list for 2026 highlights the country’s commitment to showcasing its diverse and pristine coastal landscapes, encouraging travelers to venture beyond the typical tourist destinations and experience the beauty of lesser-known beaches. These tranquil locations, like Bate Bay, not only offer peace and solitude but also support the growth of regional tourism and provide sustainable travel options for future generations. As more travelers seek out slow-travel experiences, Australia’s quiet escapes are poised to become even more popular, offering a refuge where nature and history come together in perfect harmony.

South Korea has introduced a landmark visa-free travel policy for Indonesian tourists. This move aims to simplify travel and encourage more visitors to explore Korea’s culture, cities, and natural landscapes. For global travellers, this development transforms the planning experience, allowing smoother entry and faster trips. The policy targets a broader goal of attracting 30 million visitors annually, showing Seoul’s commitment to tourism as a key economic driver. Visitors can now enjoy easier access to Korea’s bustling cities, tranquil islands, and iconic landmarks without the hassle of embassy applications or lengthy visa procedures.

Why Visa-Free Travel is a Boost for Tourism

Visa-free travel makes South Korea an increasingly attractive destination. Indonesian tourists, in particular, can now visit in small groups without applying for visas in advance. For first-time visitors, this opens doors to explore Seoul’s palaces, cultural hubs, and entertainment districts with peace of mind. Travellers can also venture to Busan for its beaches, seafood markets, and mountain trails, or Jeju Island for volcanic landscapes and waterfalls. Simplified entry ensures a stress-free start, making it easier for tourists to fully immerse themselves in Korea’s rich heritage, food culture, and vibrant pop culture scene.

Streamlined Transport and Entry Options

Alongside the visa-free travel initiative, South Korea is enhancing accessibility through better transportation. Regional airport connections are being expanded, reducing travel time for international visitors. High-speed trains connect Incheon Airport to major cities, making city-hopping convenient. Automated immigration processing is also being upgraded to help tourists move quickly upon arrival. These improvements make the experience seamless, supporting the growing number of visitors while enhancing the country’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination. Travellers can focus on exploration rather than logistics, which improves overall satisfaction.

South Korea’s Tourism Strategy

The government is treating tourism as a priority industry. Visa-free travel is a strategic step to boost inbound tourism and revenue. By targeting key markets such as Indonesia, South Korea aims to capitalise on growing outbound travel trends in Southeast Asia. Investments in accommodations, cultural experiences, and attractions support a high-quality visitor experience. From boutique hotels and guesthouses to upgraded tourist amenities, visitors are encouraged to explore both popular destinations and off-the-beaten-path locales. This strategy ensures Korea remains competitive in Asia’s booming travel market.

Tips for Travellers

For tourists planning to take advantage of South Korea visa-free travel, preparation is essential. Booking accommodations and key activities in advance ensures smoother experiences. Exploring cities beyond Seoul reveals hidden gems, from local markets to scenic nature trails. Respecting local customs, such as polite greetings and dress codes at temples, enhances cultural interactions. Travellers can also benefit from official tourism apps and guides to navigate the country efficiently. Planning with these insights allows visitors to fully enjoy South Korea’s diversity, from its modern cityscapes to serene rural regions.

Economic and Cultural Impacts

The visa-free policy is expected to boost South Korea’s tourism economy significantly. Last year, the country welcomed over 18 million visitors, and easing entry for Indonesian tourists is anticipated to push these numbers higher. More visitors translate to increased spending on hotels, dining, transportation, and entertainment. Beyond economics, the influx of tourists promotes cultural exchange, allowing visitors to experience Korean traditions, festivals, and cuisine firsthand. Visa-free travel strengthens South Korea’s position as a top global destination and highlights its readiness to host international travellers safely and comfortably.

Seasonal Attractions and Travel Highlights

South Korea’s diverse seasons offer unique experiences. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while summer showcases coastal beaches. Autumn paints forests in vibrant colours, and winter invites skiing and festive markets. Travellers taking advantage of visa-free entry can align their visits with seasonal events, local festivals, and K-pop concerts for unforgettable memories. Popular itineraries now include Seoul’s historic districts, Jeju Island’s natural wonders, and Busan’s beaches, combining cultural enrichment with leisure. Visa-free travel makes planning such multi-location trips simple and attractive.

Final Travel Insights

South Korea visa-free travel opens a new chapter for international tourism. With improved transport, simplified entry, and diverse attractions, visitors can enjoy richer experiences. Whether exploring bustling city streets, historic palaces, or natural landscapes, tourists now have more reasons than ever to visit. The initiative demonstrates Korea’s commitment to welcoming travellers, supporting global tourism, and providing convenient access for memorable adventures. For anyone considering a trip to Asia, South Korea has become an easy, attractive, and culturally immersive destination.

Samsung has just launched the Galaxy S26 series, and T‑Mobile is offering a great preorder deal for both new and existing customers. This is a good chance to get the latest Samsung phones at a lower price.

T‑Mobile is giving up to $600 off the new Galaxy S26 phones.  If you are adding a new line, the discount applies to select unlimited data plans such as Experience Beyond, Experience More, and Essentials.

For existing customers, the $600 discount is available on plans like Experience Beyond, Experience More, Better Value, Essentials, and legacy plans like Go5G Next and Go5G Plus.

Image via Samsung

The discount is applied as monthly credits, so you don’t have to pay the full amount at once. This makes it easier to upgrade to a new phone without spending too much. You can also get $40 off the new Galaxy Buds when you pre-order any of the new Galaxy S26 phones.

Preorders are live now, and the phones will start shipping soon. Whether you are upgrading your old phone or adding a new line, this is a good opportunity to save on Samsung’s newest flagship. Click here to visit the preorder page of the Galaxy S26 at T‑Mobile.

The post T‑Mobile offers huge discount on preorder of Galaxy S26 phones appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Google's Nano Banana is probably the best AI image generator and editor, and the company knows it's got a very popular tool in its hands. So much so, that Google is now working on integrating Nano Banana into one of its most popular apps: Google Maps. If that sounds rather strange to you, you're not alone, but this is apparently happening, as the folks over at Android Authority have discovered some relevant code strings in the latest version of Google Maps. These are laying the groundwork for Nano Banana coming to Maps. In case you're wondering how you'd even use Nano Banana in...

Match Overview

After a stunning stalemate in the first leg, Los Angeles Galaxy return home knowing the job is far from finished against Sporting San Miguelito. The MLS side entered the series as clear favorites despite inconsistent form, but couldn’t turn that edge into a road win, leaving the tie wide open heading into the decisive match in Southern California.

While the Galaxy still hold the advantage on their own field, Sporting proved it can compete and will believe an upset is within reach with a disciplined performance. With advancement on the line, this is shaping up to be a can’t-miss showdown.

Cristiano Ronaldo continues making headlines even after turning 41, moving closer to the elusive 1,000-goal milestone, a feat never achieved in soccer history. As Al Nassr set a club record in the Saudi Pro League with a 5-0 victory over Al Najma, the Portuguese icon shared a three-word message for teammates and supporters.

On Wednesday, February 25, Al Nassr traveled to face Al Najma, who entered the match bottom of the SPL table with just eight points. Heavy favorites from kickoff, the visitors asserted control early when Cristiano Ronaldo converted a seventh-minute penalty for his 965th career goal.

Kingsley Coman (31st minute), Inigo Martinez (42′, 80′), and Sadio Mane (52′) also found the net to seal a dominant 5-0 result. With the three points from Unaizah, Al Nassr moved to the top of the league standings with 58 points from 23 matches, two clear of Al Ahli.

After the win, Ronaldo took to social media to post a brief message: “Keep it going!” With a nine-match league winning streak, Al Nassr next travel to face Al Feiha on Saturday the 28th, where the veteran striker will look to extend his scoring run to six straight games.

Al Nassr break club defensive record

After a strong start to 2026, Al Nassr have found rhythm on both ends of the field, pairing Ronaldo-led attacking production with disciplined defending. Most recently, the club matched its record for most consecutive clean sheets in Saudi Pro League play.

The 5-0 win over Al Najma pushed that streak to seven straight league shutouts, the longest in club history. The previous mark was six, recorded between October 2014 and February 2015.

Asked about the run of defensive form, head coach Jorge Jesus praised his squad’s execution. “My team has implemented the defensive ideas we’ve worked on since the beginning of the season. Now the players are applying them with great discipline, and that’s due to their strong commitment,” the Portuguese said in the post-match press conference.

That solidity has extended across competitions: counting both SPL and continental matches, Al Nassr are now on a nine-game clean-sheet streak. The last goal they conceded came in a 2-1 win over Damac on January 21, meaning the run has lasted more than a month.

Son Heung-min’s tenure with LAFC has just begun. This is his first full year with the team after arriving in August 2025 from Tottenham. The production so far has been good, so the early exit in the victory over Real España in the Concacaf Champions Cup left some doubts that manager Marc Dos Santos explained.

The series was finished before it even started for how the first leg went. A 6-1 victory in Honduras made this match a mere obligation in Los Angeles to see what club came through to the competition’s next round. Tuesday’s 1-0 win gave only the concern of Son leaving the field at halftime.

Dos Santos gave a very calming description of why he made the substitution: “We originally planned to use Son and Denis Bouanga for only 45 minutes. The two players did not have a perfect preseason. Regaining their match rhythm was the most important thing. We had already informed them that they would only play the first half.”

LAFC secure Bouanga’s future

The victory in the Concacaf Champions Cup with the tranquility from Don Santos’ words weren’t the only good news for LAFC fans. The club has also secured they are keeping their top striker for many years to come.

Their decision was an easy one as they described: “LAFC has re-signed forward Bouanga to a contract extension as a Designated Player through 2028, with an option through the 2029-30 season.”

For the French striker his move to LAFC has been a great one that boosts a league title with many individual accolades. His numbers of 105 goals in 155 matches put him already in the legend status for the club.

LAFC’s next matches

LAFC opened the season with a 3-0 victory against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. This puts them as a clear candidate for the trophy albeit in a long calendar. What comes next are matches with Houston Dynamo on Saturday, FC Dallas a week later and St. Louis on March 14.

Barcelona has been subject to some refereeing mistakes in recent matches. The error that sparked the most controversy was the one that led to the loss to Girona, which gave Real Madrid the momentary lead in La Liga standings. Joan Laporta posted his thoughts on the recent resolution.

A previous complaint concerned an offside flagged on Pau Cubarsí in the 4-0 Copa del Rey defeat to Atletico Madrid. That incident sparked outrage at the club. This week the CTA of the RFEF, the Spanish federation’s technical committee of referees, sided with Barcelona.

Laporta said: “The pressure on Jules Koundé was obvious. Nobody’s going to give us the lost point back. It was clear. Admitting the mistake is a step, but they are not giving the point back. We have mixed feelings. Let’s hope this does not get repeated.”

CTA’s full explanation

The controversial play was decisive in Barcelona’s defeat to Girona. With the match tied 1-1, Girona scored with just five minutes remaining. In the action, Claudio Echeverri stepped on Koundé in the lead up to the goal.

The CTA stated: “Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct clarifies that a reckless stamp constitutes a foul and a caution. Contesting the ball does not exempt a player from committing an offence. If a player steps on an opponent using excessive force, it must be sanctioned.”

Their resolution was that it was a foul: “The Girona forward removes the defender from the defensive action, and the infringement should therefore be punished with a foul and a yellow card. VAR should intervene, as this involves a clear and obvious error, and advise the referee to change the decision.”

Barcelona’s answer

Barcelona regained ground over the weekend to put the point margin back in their favor. That may have tempered the club’s response, but they posted a short message on social media: “Owning a mistake is a big step. Avoiding it is the next.”

One of the greatest defensive fighters of all time, Floyd Mayweather, returns to the ring this September for a rematch with fellow icon Manny Pacquiao. The man many believe to be heir to that technical throne – Shakur Stevenson – has weighed in on the match-up. Mayweather and Pacquiao will face off at The Sphere […]

The post Shakur Stevenson picks a winner in Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2: “He cooks him” appeared first on Boxing News.

UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 play-off turunda Galatasaray, 5-2 kazandığı ilk maçın rövanşında Juventus'a 3-2 mağlup olsa da son 16 turuna yükseldi. Cimbom böylece dev bir gelirin de sahibi oldu.

Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde mücadele eden temsilcimiz Galatasaray, play-off turu ilk maçında İtalyan devi Juventus'u 5-2 mağlup etmişti. Sarı kırmızılılar deplasmanda çıktığı ikinci maçta Juventus'a 3-2 mağlup olsa da son 16 turu biletini cebine koydu.

Cimbom bu başarının ardından Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde dev bir gelirin de sahibi oldu.

Galatasaray, daha önceki turları geçerek 42.5 milyon euro gibi büyük bir rakamı kasasına koymuştu. Son 16 Turu biletinin gelmesiyle birlikte Cimbom, 11 milyon euro'luk gelirin sahibi oldu. Bu rakam güncel kurla yaklaşık 600 milyon TL'ye karşılık geliyor.

Böylece, sarı kırmızılılar bu sezon Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde toplam 53.5 milyon euro'luk gelir elde etti.

UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 play-off turunda İtalyan devi Juventus'u eleyerek adını son 16 takım arasında yazdıran Galatasaray'ın, bir sonraki turda muhtemel rakipleri netleşti.

UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi play-off turu ilk maçında konuk ettiği Juventus'u 5-2'lik skorla geçen Galatasaray, rövanşta 3-2 yenilse de ilk karşılaşmada aldığı skorla adını son 16 turuna yazdırdı.

İŞTE MUHTEMEL RAKİPLER

Juventus'u eleyen sarı kırmızılılar, Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 turunda İngiliz ekipleri Liverpool ya da Tottenham'dan biriyle karşılaşacak.

KURA ÇEKİMİ YARIN

UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 turu kura çekimi, 27 Şubat 2026 Cuma günü saat 14.00'te İsviçre'nin Nyon kentinde gerçekleştirilecek.

Bu gün futbol üzrə UEFA Çempionlar Liqasında (ÇL) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün pley-off mərhələsinə yekun vurulub.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, keçirilmiş son 4 oyunla 1/8 finala yüksələn daha 4 komanda müəyyənləşib.

ÇL-in sonuncu qalibi olan PSJ Parisdə Fransanın digər təmsilçisi “Monako” ilə üz-üzə gəlib. Dörd qolluq görüşdə qalib müəyyənləşməsə də, PSJ ilk oyundakı qələbə sayəsində mərhələ adlayan tərəf olub.

“Atalanta” doğma meydanda Dortmund “Borussiya”sını sınağa çəkib. İlk oyundakı məğlubiyyətin əvəzini artıqlaması ilə çıxmış İtaliya təmsilçisi 1/8 finala yüksəlib.

“Yuventus” İtaliyada “Qalatasaray”la, “Real” İspaniyada “Benfika” ilə görüşüb. Madrid təmsilçisi doğma meydanda da qalib gəlməklə istəyinə çatıb. “Yuventus” isə Türkiyə nəhənginə 90 dəqiqədə 3 qol vurmaqla ümumi hesabı bərabərləşdirsə də, əlavə vaxtda iki qol vurmuş “Qalatasaray” mərhələ adlayan tərəf olub.

Xatırladaq ki, ötən gün keçirilmiş matçlardan sonra “Atletiko” (İspaniya), “Bayer” (Almaniya), “Bodo Qlimt” (Norveç) və “Nyukasl” (İngiltərə) komandaları da 1/8 finala vəsiqə qazanmışdılar.

UEFA Çempionlar Liqası
Pley-off mərhələsinin cavab oyunları
25 fevral

Atalanta (İtaliya) – Borussiya (Dortmund, Almaniya) 4:1
Qollar: Skamakka, 5. Zappakosta, 45. Paşaliç, 57. Samardziç, 90+8-pen – Adeyemi, 75.
İlk oyun – 0:2.

PSJ (Fransa) – Monako (Fransa) 2:2
Qollar: Markinyos, 60. Kvaratsxeliya, 66 – Akliuş, 45. Teze, 90+1.
İlk oyun – 3:2.

Yuventus (İtaliya) – Qalatasaray (Türkiyə) 3:2
Qollar: Lokatelli, 37-pen. Qatti, 67. Makkenni, 82 – Osimhen, 105+1. B.A.Yılmaz, 119.
İlk oyun – 2:5.

Real (İspaniya) – Benfika (Portuqaliya) 2:1
Qollar: Tçuameni, 16. Vinisius, 80 – Rafa Silva, 14.
İlk oyun – 1:0.

Atalanta are the only Serie A team left in the Champions League Round of 16 and will learn their next opponents, either Arsenal or Bayern Munich, on Friday.

Serie A have just one representative remaining in the Champions League Round of 16 following Inter and Juventus’ eliminations in the knockout play-off.

La Dea came back from two goals down against Borussia Dortmund, securing a memorable 4-1 win in Bergamo on Wednesday.

Inter suffered a 5-2 aggregate defeat against Bodo/Glimt, losing both matches, while Juventus nearly completed a comeback against Galatasaray but were eliminated with a 7-5 aggregate loss.

Defending Serie A champions Napoli had already been eliminated in the league phase.

Atalanta will face Arsenal or Bayern Munich in the Round of 16 and will know their next opponents on Friday.

The draw for the Round of 16, quarter-final and semi-final will take place on Friday, February 27 at 12:00 CET (11:00 GMT). The Europa League and Conference League draw will follow.

Champions League Round of 16 draw – rules and teams involved

“The eight winners of the two-legged knockout phase play-offs join the top eight sides from the league phase in the round of 16 draw,” UEFA said.

“The league phase top eight will be seeded for the round of 16 draw.”

Seeded (league phase top eight, ordered by league phase ranking)
Arsenal (ENG)
Bayern München (GER)
Liverpool (ENG)
Tottenham (ENG)
Barcelona (ESP)
Chelsea (ENG)
Sporting CP (POR)
Man City (ENG)

Unseeded (knockout phase play-off winners)
Real Madrid (ESP)
Paris (FRA)
Newcastle (ENG)
Atletico Madrid (ESP)
Atalanta (ITA)
Leverkusen (GER)
Galatasaray (TUR)
Bodø/Glimt (NOR)

The road to Budapest #UCL pic.twitter.com/6mpNCYADFP

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 25, 2026

The clubs in each seeded pair are drawn into one of two positions in the round of 16 against the relevant winners of the knockout phase play-offs, whose position is determined by the knockout phase play-off draw.

Four bowls are prepared for the draw, with the balls containing the names of each pair of seeded teams placed in the corresponding marked bowls according to the league rankings.

The draw will allocate the side of the bracket for all the seeded teams, starting with the teams ranked 7/8 and finishing with the teams ranked 1/2.

One ball is drawn from the bowl containing the two relevant ranked teams (i.e., the teams ranked 7 and 8) and opened to reveal the team. The first team drawn from this bowl is placed in their reserved spot on the silver side of the bracket. The other seeded team of the pairing is then drawn and displayed, and allocated to the corresponding reserved spot on the blue side of the bracket. The same procedure is followed for the remaining seeded teams.

Champions League Round of 16 – Road to the Final

As the teams were positioned in the bracket by the draw for the knockout phase play-off and the round of 16, the ties and the order of matches have already been determined by the positions of the teams from the previous rounds.

The teams qualifying from the round of 16 follow the bracket path until the final, and, as in the previous rounds, the team in the bottom row of each match pairing will play the second leg of the relevant tie at home.

The winners of the semi-final on the silver side of the bracket will be designated as the nominal home team for the final.

Champions League Round of 16 draw – where to watch

The draw will be streamed live on UEFA.com, UEFA.tv and the official UEFA Champions League app. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.

Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini spoke to the media rather than Luciano Spalletti after Champions League elimination to Galatasaray. ‘It’s fortunate Lloyd Kelly was there and not me’ on the red card.

The Bianconeri knew it was extraordinarily difficult after losing the first leg 5-2 in Istanbul when down to 10 men, and it seemed impossible when they had Kelly sent off here too at the 48^th minute.

Despite that, they still clawed their way back with another two goals after Manuel Locatelli’s penalty, from Federico Gatti and Weston McKennie, to force extra time.

They had a huge chance to win it with Edon Zhegrova, but the extra man ultimately showed with late Victor Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz goals to send Galatasaray into the Champions League Round of 16.

Chiellini takes the heat after Juventus exit

“Luciano is not here, because I think it is only right that a director is here tonight,” Chiellini told Amazon Prime Video Italia.

“We are exhausted and disappointed by this result, despite the performance. At the same time, we are very proud for the way we played.”

There was applause at the final whistle from the Juventus fans, who recognised the incredible effort that their team put in to turn this situation around.

“The feeling we must have is that this is a starting point to rediscover the spark that we’ve been lacking, as we go into the final weeks of the season,” continued Chiellini.

“If we want to look at Spalletti’s tenure, we got one and a half games wrong since he arrived. We haven’t been very fortunate when it comes to the incidents, but we have to keep going.”

The last time Juve sent Chiellini to speak to the media rather than Spalletti, it was to protest the Pierre Kalulu red card against Inter in Serie A.

How did the Bianconeri judge the Kelly red card, which was not just a second yellow, but changed to a straight red via VAR despite seeming entirely accidental?

“Let’s just say it’s fortunate Kelly was in that situation and not me,” replied the former Italy defender. “There’s nothing more I can say on that.”

Juventus had already been in crisis going into this match, managing only one draw from their last five competitive games, and their lack of fighting spirit was the main criticism.

At least that cannot be said tonight, as down to 10 men for over an hour, they only capitulated late on.

“We need to keep faith in these players and this coach. There is a process and that can mean a few negative results, despite good performances,” continued Chiellini.

“There are 12 games to go this season, where there is a lot at stake. The team is ready, we saw that tonight, and the growth process continues even with a few slip-ups and obstacles in our path.”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Juventus 3-2 Galatasaray

Are there regrets at the way the Champions League campaign went for Juventus?

“Not right now, we ended the league phase in good form, including a victory away to Bodo/Glimt, which we saw how difficult that was now. We beat Benfica, who troubled Real Madrid.

“The regret is that we could’ve gone further with a little more concentration, but now we have to concentrate on Roma this weekend and the remaining matches,” concluded Chiellini.

All Juventus fans at the Allianz Stadium gave the Bianconeri a standing ovation after Barış Alper Yılmaz scored the second goal for Galatasaray, eliminating the Serie A giants from the Champions League.

Juventus nearly completed a stunning comeback in the Champions League knockout play-off on Wednesday. Football Italia was among the accredited media in Turin tonight.

Juventus fans’ reaction to Champions League exit

Juventus levelled the score in regular time, going 3-0 up after a 5-2 loss suffered in Turkey a week earlier.

Victor Osimhen scored the first goal for Galatasaray in the extra time, and Alper Yılmaz finished it off with two minutes remaining, beating Mattia Perin on a counter-attack.

With just a few seconds left to play, all the Juventus fans at the Allianz Stadium stood up to give a standing ovation to the players who had been reduced to ten men at the beginning of the second half when Lloyd Kelly was given a straight red card.

Most of the supporters then walked out of the stadium, only to be insulted by the ultras in Curva Sud, who called their fellow fans “crappy.”

Ultras remained in the stands beyond the final whistle and continued to chant for the team.

Manuel Locatelli admits he ‘feels like crying’ after Juventus capitulated to Galatasaray in extra time. ‘We put our heart and soul into this game, this is the team we must always be.’

This was always going to be practically impossible to turn around the 5-2 first leg defeat in Istanbul, even more so after Lloyd Kelly was sent off in the 48^th minute with Juve 1-0 up on the night from a Locatelli penalty.

Nonetheless, they forced extra time with Federico Gatti and Weston McKennie goals, had a big chance to win it with Edon Zhegrova, then ultimately the extra man was felt with two late Victor Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz strikes.

Locatelli so proud of Juventus effort

Galatasaray enter the Champions League Round of 16, winning 7-5 on aggregate, but the Allianz Juventus Stadium crowd applauded their team’s truly heroic efforts down to 10 men for over an hour.

“I honestly feel like crying, we genuinely believed,” Locatelli told Amazon Prime Video Italia.

“We put our heart and soul into this game, even more than that. An incident made it all more complicated in the first leg, but today I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart.

“The atmosphere in the stadium was incredible, these are nights that stay with you. We soaked up the energy from them that we needed.”

Juve had been criticised for lacking a fighting spirit this season, but that could not be an accusation levelled at them this evening, coming so close to an incredible turnaround.

“We gave our heart and soul. I always ask the players to do that, and tonight we really did, so this is what we’ve got to carry with us going forward,” added Locatelli.

“This is the Juventus we wanted to see, and the one we must always be. We need to always try to play at this level. We are on the right track and mustn’t lose that believe.”

There were some big chances that went begging tonight, and Khephren Thuram was in tears on the touchline after McKennie equalised on aggregate.

“I think we can only compliment the players tonight for their efforts, mistakes can happen. Now we’ve got another important game coming up against Roma and must focus on that.”

Check out the player ratings for Juventus’ 3-2 win over Galatasaray, which, however, was not enough for the Bianconeri to qualify for the Round of 16 of the Champions League.

Juventus 3-2 Galatasaray player ratings

Perin 6.5 – Not too busy during the match, but still made a couple of decent saves.

Kalulu 8 – Provided the assist for Gatti’s goal, the second one for Juve, and was superb defensively (108′ Openda N/A).

Gatti 7 – Gave Juventus hope with the second goal of the night, but was slightly out of position when Osimhen scored the decisive goal for Galatasaray.

Kelly 4 – Forget the red card. The Englishman had had a bad game already, both defensively and in the build-up.

McKennie 9 – Honestly, I’ve never seen a footballer play as a left-back, left winger and centre forward in the same match. The USMNT star did so and with incredible quality, too. He scored the third goal and provided the assist for Zhegrova, but the Kosovo international miserably failed all alone in front of the goalkeeper.

Koopmeiners 6.5 – A great performance, first in midfield and then in defence, after Kelly was sent off. The Dutchman provided the assist for McKennie, but was sloppy in the build-up to Osimhen’s goal.

Locatelli 8 – Another big performance for the Italian midfielder, who recovered possession 13 times (via Sofascore), won 11 duels and had 85% passing accuracy (108′ Kostic N/A)

K Thuram 7 – Subbed off after missing a goal all alone in front of the goalkeeper. It would have been the 3-0 that McKennie scored just a few minutes later. Thuram wouldn’t know, and he was in tears when he arrived on the bench. Aside from that, he put in a solid performance with four recoveries and four duels won.  (77′ Adzic 5.5)

Conceicao 6.5 – His dribbling and pace caught the eye, as usual, but he still lacked the final touch, which is not a detail. (68′ Zhegrova 4.5 – He missed a huge, huge chance that could have won the game for Juve. Truly incredible.)

David 5 – No presence inside the box and a big chance missed right before the break. The substitution felt inevitable. (68′ Boga 5).

Yildiz 7 – No goals or assists, but he turned on the light every time he had the ball. Unlucky not to score in the first half. He ended the game limping, but played over 100 minutes. Heroic. (110′ Miretti N/A)

Coach: Spalletti 8 – He transformed Juventus after four defeats in the last five games. They put on the pitch all they hadn’t shown against Como: desire, pride, determination and quality. Juventus were aggressive and took risks all over the pitch. The referee didn’t help them, and the Bianconeri were eventually eliminated. It hurts, but Spalletti is surely proud of his players.

Galatasaray: Cakir 7; Sallai 5 (59′ Boey), Sanchez 6, Bardakci 5.5, Jakobs 4.5; Torreira 5 (103′ Singo 6.5), Lemina 6.5 (87′ Icardi 5.5); Alper Yilmaz 6, Gabriel Sara 5.5 (71′ Gundogan 6), Lang 5.5 (59′ Sané 5); Osimhen 7. Coach: Buruk 5.

Juventus staged a heroic comeback after Lloyd Kelly’s red card to force Galatasaray into extra time 3-0 on the night, but Victor Osimhen sealed their Champions League exit 5-7 on aggregate.

The Bianconeri had a very slim chance of qualifying after the 5-2 first leg defeat in Istanbul, where they had been leading 2-1 until collapsing with Juan Cabal’s red card. He was suspended along with Andrea Cambiaso, plus Emil Holm, Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik injured, Gleison Bremer only fit for the bench, and Kenan Yildiz starting despite not being at 100 per cent. Victor Osimhen shrugged off a knee issue to start with fellow ex-Napoli man Noa Lang, while Mario Lemina returned from suspension.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Their capitulation in the first leg was part of a general crisis for Juve, who had one draw in the last five competitive games going into this clash, going out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final and sliding to fifth in Serie A.

There were two big early chances, as Federico Gatti and Teun Koopmeiners couldn’t keep their headers down from six yards, but Mattia Perin made a great save on Osimhen’s volley from a flicked-on throw-in. The goalkeeper stepped in after a series of damaging Michele Di Gregorio howlers.

Osimhen sprinted back trying to help the defence, instead clattering makeshift left-back Weston McKennie for a yellow card, while Manuel Locatelli stung the goalkeeper’s gloves from distance and Francisco Conceicao curled wide on the resulting corner.

Kenan Yildiz forced a fantastic save from Urugcan Cakir at the near post after his shot took a deflection off Davinson Sanchez.

Davinson Sanchez also made an error to spark the Juve attack that resulted in a clumsy Torreira sliding tackle through the back of Khephren Thuram inside the area. Manuel Locatelli converted the penalty to get the Old Lady back in this tie at 3-5 on aggregate.

Locatelli converts from the penalty spot to open the scoring for Juventus!@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/NvLubtSpcg

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

Jonathan David’s very heavy first touch ruined a Kenan Yildiz roll across just before half-time, with Thuram drilling the rebound wide.

Juventus went a man down in Istanbul and it happened again in Turin, albeit in bizarre circumstances. Kelly landed awkwardly and on top of Baris Alper Yilmaz’s calf, so the referee awarded a second yellow card. As the defender was arguing he hadn’t done it on purpose, the referee was called over for the VAR review and changed it to a straight red card instead.

Lloyd Kelly receives a straight red card after VAR review for a challenge on Yılmaz @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/9v1LiIvVJJ

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

Even down to 10 men, Juve still threatened a goal when Kenan Yildiz squirmed between two and got the finish deflected inches wide of the near post.

Gatti also nodded over again, but finally got a finish on target when he tapped in at the back post on a Pierre Kalulu low cross from the right, making it 4-5 on aggregate.

Game very much alive

Federico Gatti extends the lead for Juventus, reducing the deficit to one against Galatasaray!@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/xThNTu3m7g

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

Osimhen fired over and it was so nearly 5-5 on aggregate with Thuram’s final contribution before being substituted, as he burst into the box and drew out the goalkeeper, floating his lob over the empty net.

Juve came even closer moments later, as Yildiz at full stretch volleyed the Jeremie Boga cross onto the upright from point-blank range.

It was only a warning, as an Edon Zhegrova free kick was knocked down by Koopmeiners for the McKennie header at the far post to make it 3-0 on the night, 5-5 on aggregate.

Weston McKennie fires ten man Juventus level in the tie against Galatasaray @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/qDoybNgSZP

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

Galatasaray threatened on the counter in stoppages, but Baris Alper Yilmaz chose completely the wrong pass for Osimhen, while Kenan Yildiz drilled wide from the edge of the box.

The teams could not be separated and it went to extra time, despite the Bianconeri being down to 10 men since the 48^th minute.

Juve continued to attack and should’ve scored a fourth when Boga rolled across from the left, but McKennie laid it off for Zhegrova to bend horribly wide from 12 yards.

Eren Elmali came sliding in at the far post, just unable to connect with the Leroy Sane cross, but Galatasaray did restore their advantage on aggregate when Gatti slipped trying to intercept the Baris Alper Yilmaz assist and Osimhen drilled the finish through Perin’s legs at the near post.

Victor Osimhen fires Galatasaray back in front on aggregate in extra time @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/TYGLZ5mMBP

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

Juventus kept pushing even with 10 men for an hour, as Zhegrova’s ferocious strike from a tight angle was palmed away, Filip Kostic slipping to fire the rebound wide, then Boga fired a couple of efforts off target.

In the final moments, an inspired Wilfried Singo through ball saw both Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz spring the offside trap, the latter beating on-rushing Perin for Galatasaray to qualify 7-5 on aggregate.

Yılmaz puts it beyond doubt for Galatasaray as they march into the Champions League round of 16 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/dlW3XgeE23

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 25, 2026

There was still applause from the crowd, who appreciated the extraordinary effort made.

Juventus 3-2 Galatasaray aet (5-7 agg)

Locatelli pen 37 (J), Gatti 70 (J), McKennie 82 (J), Osimhen 105 (G), Baris Alper Yilmaz 119 (G)

Sent off: Kelly 48 (J)

25-02-2026 20:00

Knockout phase play-offs

Juventus Stadium (Allianz Stadium)

Juventus

Galatasaray

0 2

3 - 2

Player statistic

Carlo Pinsoglio

-5'

1st half

		14'		Victor Osimhen
Lloyd Kelly		25'
Kenan Yıldız		31'
		33'		Roland Sallai
Manuel Locatelli		37'

2nd half

Lloyd Kelly		49'
		60'		Gabriel Sara
Federico Gatti		70'
Weston McKennie (Assist: Teun Koopmeiners)		82'

Extra time

		105+1'		Victor Osimhen (Assist: Barış Alper Yılmaz)
		111'		Ugurcan Cakir
		119'		Barış Alper Yılmaz (Assist: Wilfried Singo)

Match statistic

47

Possession %

53

28

Total shots

16

9

Shots on target

8

13

Shots off target

5

6

Blocked shots

3

9

Corners

4

2

Offsides

1

16

Fouls

14

Juventus

Galatasaray

Starting lineups

1

Mattia Perin

Goalkeeper

4

Federico Gatti

Defender

6

Lloyd Kelly

Defender

15

Pierre Kalulu

Defender

109'

19

Khéphren Thuram

Midfielder

78'

5

Manuel Locatelli

Midfielder

109'

8

Teun Koopmeiners

Midfielder

22

Weston McKennie

Midfielder

7

Francisco Conceição

Attacker

67'

30

Jonathan David

Attacker

67'

10

Kenan Yıldız

Attacker

103'

1

Ugurcan Cakir

Goalkeeper

42

Abdülkerim Bardakci

Defender

6

Davinson Sánchez

Defender

4

Ismail Jakobs

Defender

87'

8

Gabriel Sara

Midfielder

71'

34

Lucas Torreira

Midfielder

103'

99

Mario Lemina

Midfielder

87'

53

Barış Alper Yılmaz

Attacker

77

Noa Lang

Attacker

59'

7

Roland Sallai

Attacker

59'

45

Victor Osimhen

Attacker

Substitutes

3

Bremer

Defender

23

Carlo Pinsoglio

Goalkeeper

16

Michele Di Gregorio

Goalkeeper

50

Niccolò Rizzo

Defender

21

Fabio Miretti

Midfielder

103'

20

Loïs Openda

Attacker

109'

18

Filip Kostic

Midfielder

109'

7

Jeremie Boga

Attacker

67'

11

Edon Zhegrova

Attacker

67'

17

Vasilije Adžić

Midfielder

78'

23

Kaan Ayhan

Midfielder

12

Batuhan Sen

Goalkeeper

11

Yunus Akgün

Attacker

19

Günay Güvenc

Goalkeeper

22

Yaser Asprilla

Midfielder

90

Wilfried Singo

Defender

103'

10

Leroy Sané

Midfielder

59'

93

Sacha Boey

Defender

59'

20

Ilkay Gündogan

Midfielder

71'

9

Mauro Icardi

Attacker

87'

17

Eren Elmali

Defender

87'

The expansion will allow users to watch Reels on their televisions and provide big screen viewing capabilities for Instagram content.

The artificial intelligence platform was also used to generate professional complaints, according to a report from 404 Media in collaboration with Court Watch.

The platform also enhanced its Premium Lite subscription program as parent company Google looks to drive revenue for the business.

The partnership will allow defense applications and military systems to work with Grok’s models, per an Axios report.

China raises safety bar for L3 self-driving cars: mandatory standards to require 'Black Box' systems.

The post New chinese regulations push L3 autonomous vehicles closer to L4 capabilities with enhanced safety protocols appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.

The post Ethereum Undervalued, Bitcoin & XRP Remain Neutral Amid Recent Bullish Reversal appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Based on the 30-day Market Value to Realized Value (MVRV) Ratio, Ethereum (ETH) is mildly undervalued at -5.5%. Bitcoin (BTC), XRP (XRP), and Chainlink (LINK) remain neutral at -1.4%, -0.1%, and +3.3%, respectively. By contrast, Cardano (ADA) is mildly overvalued, with an MVRV ratio of +6.8%.

Source: Santiment

Bitcoin and the wider crypto market showcase a bullish trend reversal

The past day has seen an upward trend reversal in the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem, despite recent bearish momentum and sentiment.

Data shows that the average Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator has slightly surpassed its 9-day average, indicating a weak bullish momentum reversal.

BTC was up 7.78% in the past day to trade at $69,050 as ETH gained 13.31% to reclaim its $2,000 psychological level. Meanwhile, XRP and LINK gained +9.37% and 16.07%, respectively. Uniquely, Cardano has experienced a striking 20.07% upsurge to trade at $0.3115.

Source: CoinMarketCap

Events leading up to the recent crypto rally

Tech company Nvidia recently reported record-breaking earnings driven by demand in artificial intelligence (AI). Due to the strong correlation (98%) of crypto with the S&P 500, the news fueled renewed risk appetite in investors of both stocks and crypto.

Capital rotation from BTC to altcoins has contributed to their recent rallies as investors seek higher returns from riskier assets. Bitcoin dominance is now at 58-60%, while the Altcoin Season Index reads 34/100, indicating a mixed market for Bitcoin and Altcoins. 

This week, Bitcoin ETFs saw $257.7M in net inflows, effectively ending a five-week outflow streak.

Near-term market outlook 

At press time, the overall crypto market cap totaled $2.38 trillion, having gained 7.50% in the last 24hours.

Should the current rally hold, the crypto market could test the $2.59T (50% Fibonacci) level. Falling below $2.35T (78.6% Fib) would indicate a loss in momentum, validating a weak bullish theory.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The former competition director of Joe Gibbs Racing claimed Wednesday the Pro Football Hall of Fame coach is suing him for “daring to leave” the NASCAR team when the situation surrounding Gibbs' grandson became untenable at the organization.

Chris Gabehart admitted in his declaration filed in the Western District of North Carolina that he did take photographs on his phone of a JGR excel file and other projects that he had played a role in developing. But Gabehart insisted his own forensic audit proved the information was never shared with any other organization.

JGR has sued Gabehart for allegedly embarking on “a brazen scheme to steal JGR’s most sensitive information" and on Tuesday night added Spire Motorsports to the suit. JGR also requested a restraining order preventing Gabehart from working for the rival team.

JGR alleges Gabehart took proprietary information from the team to bring with him to his new role at Spire.

Gabehart is challenging that narrative and claims his 13-year tenure at JGR began to unravel when he was pressured last season to crew chief Ty Gibbs, the grandson of the team owner, despite having been promoted to competition director at the end of 2024.

“I notified JGR that the job was not, at all, as advertised. I was promised a COO-type role overseeing all competitive operations with autonomy to lead,” Gabehart wrote in the declaration. “Instead, I found myself constantly intertwined with Coach Gibbs, senior JGR executives and family members when making even routine competition decisions — a dysfunctional organizational structure that I could not continue in.”

Gabehart claims he expressed “serious concerns” about how Ty Gibbs' No. 54 team was managed, specifically that it was not held to the same standards as the teams for Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe and Denny Hamlin, and that the car “was managed directly by Coach Gibbs and everyone in the organization knew it.”

Gabehart said he conceded to pressure to crew chief Ty Gibbs in a behind-the-scenes role and then in late June he called nine consecutive races on the pit box for the young driver. He maintains he offered specific examples of the No. 54 team's differential treatment that undermined him as competition director, specifically that Ty Gibbs “was not held to the same meeting attendance standards as others on the team.”

When the situation came to a head near the end of last season, Gabehart claims he began working on a separation agreement with JGR and was told to say he was “on vacation” if anyone asked why he was not working. He maintains JGR stopped paying him in November as negotiations over his parting grew contentious and talks eventually ceased.

JGR has since sued, claiming Gabehart violated his contract and stole confidential team trade secrets when “his demands for additional authority were rebuffed by JGR’s owner.” JGR claims Gabehart has caused more than $8 million in damages to the organization.

Gabehart maintains he paid for his own forensic audit and it showed "there is no evidence I transmitted, distributed, used or otherwise shared any JGR confidential information. No text messages. No email attachments. No dissemination whatsoever.

“This lawsuit is not about protecting trade secrets,” Gabehart claimed, “it is about punishing a former employee for daring to leave.”

JGR was founded by Joe Gibbs in 1992 after he won three Super Bowls as Washington’s football coach. Gibbs is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and NASCAR Hall of Fame and now co-owns JGR with his daughter-in-law, Heather.

Heather Gibbs is the mother of Ty Gibbs, who is at the start of his fourth full Cup season driving for his grandfather. Ty Gibbs was successful in NASCAR's second-level series, where he won 12 races and the 2022 championship. His father, Coy, was found dead in his hotel room the morning after Ty won the championship.

Ty Gibbs moved to the Cup Series in 2023 and is winless in 125 starts. The 23 year old finished a career-best 15th in the 2024 Cup standings.

Gabehart joined JGR in 2012 as an engineer, worked his way to crew chief for Hamlin, and became competition director ahead of the 2025 season. Gabehart spent six seasons as Hamlin’s crew chief and the duo won 22 Cup races — two of which were the Daytona 500 — and qualified for the championship finale three times.

Hamlin finished fifth or better in six seasons under Gabehart, while Hamlin’s wins and laps-led were second-best in the Cup Series during that period.

The lawsuit filed by JGR contends its own forensic audit after Gabehart said he no longer wanted to work for the organization found Google searches about Spire Motorsports, folders titled “Spire” and “Past Setups” and more than a dozen images of JGR files containing confidential information and trade secrets.

Gabehart admits to taking the photos and creating the “Spire” folder, but said the folder was for his own evaluation of whether or not to join the rival race team.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

Hilary Knight doesn't want to let what she called a “distasteful joke” by President Donald Trump about the gold-medal winning U.S. women's Olympic hockey team get in the way of a historic performance by American women across all sports at the Milan Cortina Games.

“We’re just focusing on celebrating the women in our room, the extraordinary efforts," Knight told ESPN on Wednesday. “And continue to celebrate three gold medals in program history as well as the double gold for both men’s and women’s at the same time.”

Knight, a two-time gold medalist whose 15 goals and 33 points in Olympic competition are the most by a U.S. hockey player at the Games, said she's not focusing on an offhand comment by Trump after the American men topped Canada for gold in overtime on Sunday.

Talking on a speakerphone in the postgame locker room, Trump extended an invitation to the White House to the men's team, then added, “We’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that.” The president later joked that if he didn't extend the invitation, he would probably be impeached.

While the vast majority of the men's team flew to Washington on Tuesday and visited Trump in the White House before being guests at the State of the Union, many of the women's players were on the way back to their professional or college clubs.

USA Hockey, which said it was “honored” by the invitation, cited logistical issues as the major hurdle that prevented the women's team from stopping by the White House. The team was originally scheduled to fly commercially into New York on Monday, but was forced to reroute through Atlanta due to a snowstorm in the Northeast.

Several players were going to stick around New York for promotional purposes, even ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Those scheduled appearances had to be canceled because of flight changes.

Knight lamented that the video — which included several players laughing after Trump's comments — took on a life of its own and didn't convey the true nature of the relationship between the men's and women's teams.

“I think the guys were in a tough spot,” Knight said. "So I think it’s a shame this storyline and narrative has kind of blown up and overshadowing that connection and genuine interest in one another and cheering each other on.”

Kelly Pannek, a forward on the women's team, told reporters, “the video is what it is" but added it was a “special feeling” spending time with the men's team after they won the first Olympic gold for the U.S. in 46 years. Pannek believes there is mutual respect and support on both sides of the relationship.

Goaltender Jeremy Swayman told reporters in Boston after returning to practice with the Bruins that the men “should have reacted differently” to Trump's remarks.

“To share that gold medal with them is something that we’re forever grateful for,” Swayman said. "And now that we’re home we get to share that together forever and see the incredible support we have from the USA and share this incredible gold medal.”

The earliest the U.S. women could make a visit would be in late spring after the conclusion of the Professional Women's Hockey League season.

Knight called the dustup a “really good learning point” and hopes that it will affect the way women are talked about both inside and outside of the sports world.

The U.S. won 12 gold medals in Milan Cortina, with women playing a hand in eight of them.

“Women aren’t less than," Knight said. "And their achievements shouldn’t be overshadowed by anything else other than how great they are.”

___

AP Winter Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

All Juventus fans at the Allianz Stadium gave the Bianconeri a standing ovation after Barış Alper Yılmaz scored the second goal for Galatasaray, eliminating the Serie A giants from the Champions League.

Juventus nearly completed a stunning comeback in the Champions League knockout play-off on Wednesday. Football Italia was among the accredited media in Turin tonight.

Juventus fans’ reaction to Champions League exit

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Luciano Spalletti Head Coach of Juventus FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Juventus levelled the score in regular time, going 3-0 up after a 5-2 loss suffered in Turkey a week earlier.

Victor Osimhen scored the first goal for Galatasaray in the extra time, and Alper Yılmaz finished it off with two minutes remaining, beating Mattia Perin on a counter-attack.

With just a few seconds left to play, all the Juventus fans at the Allianz Stadium stood up to give a standing ovation to the players who had been reduced to ten men at the beginning of the second half when Lloyd Kelly was given a straight red card.

TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Most of the supporters then walked out of the stadium, only to be insulted by the ultras in Curva Sud, who called their fellow fans “crappy.”

Ultras remained in the stands beyond the final whistle and continued to chant for the team.

Michigan State hit a home run when it hired women's basketball coach Robyn Fralick, and it continues to show as she is in the home stretch of her third year as the leader of the program. Despite the on-court success the Spartans have been having, Fralick's prowess has been well received off of the court as well.

The latest feather in the cap of the Spartans head coach, Fralick has been named an assistant coach for the women’s U18 National Team. She will be joined by Notre Dame head coach Niele Ivey, who will serve as the team's head coach, and California head coach Charmin Smith. They will be leading the FIBA U18 AmeriCup team this summer.

The 2026 🇺🇸 #USABWU18 Coaching Staff 🫡

🔹 @IrishCoachIvey
🔹@CoachFralick
🔹 @21charmin

» https://t.co/6oFAVzfDaKpic.twitter.com/gQysTEyirb

— USABJNT (@usabjnt) February 24, 2026

Spartan fans will be quick to give congratulations to Fralick on a tremendous honor.

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Robyn Fralick named assistant coach for Team USA at the FIBA AmeriCup

Patriots Host SEC’s Top Edge Rusher For Combine Interview, Potential 1st-Round Pick originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New England Patriots have the No. 31 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and all signs point to the team investing in their edge rush in the first round.

There have been several names thrown around, and head coach Mike Vrabel himself confirmed that they hosted more than 10 edge rushers for interviews before the start of the NFL Combine on Thursday.

Insider Evan Lazar reported that among those 10 is Texas A&M linebacker Cashius Howell.

Howell had the most sacks among draft-eligible players in college football’s premier conference, the SEC.

The 22-year-old wrapped up two highly productive years for the Aggies with 11.5 sacks during the team's playoff run. He played five college seasons, with his career beginning at Bowling Green, where he recorded 9.5 sacks as a redshirt sophomore. 

Very few players in this draft class have more than his 27 sacks during their college career. However, at just 6-foot-2, he leaves a lot to be desired as far as the NFL prototype pass-rush build is concerned.

Clearly, his size has not hindered the linebacker from getting into the backfield in college. But it does show up in the run game on numerous occasions.

He is a bendy pass rusher who has polished moves, but he is not entering the league as a three-down defensive end. His NFL comparison is Will McDonald IV of the New York Jets. 

BUCKHANNON, W.Va. — Frankfort’s Ana Mendoza won a championship at 100 pounds in the North Regional wrestling competition Sunday at Buckhannon-Upshur High, and 18 locals qualified for the state tournament.

Sunday marked the first time West Virginia held regionals for girls wrestling, with a corresponding South Region event at Parkersburg High School taking place the same day.

The girls state tournament will be held at Marshall Health Network Arena on March 7.

West Virginia has held a girls state championship since 2020, though it has been unsanctioned and not run by the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC).

Last week, the WVSSAC Board of Directors voted to approve girls wrestling as a preliminary sanctioned sport beginning with the 2026-27 school year.

More than 300 girls wrestlers participated this year, hailing from 86 schools across the state.

At Sunday’s North Regional tournament, Mendoza was Frankfort’s lone state qualifier and the lone wrestler from an area school to win a regional championship.

The top eight performers in each weight class qualified for states.

Moorefield, which was fourth in the team competition, had seven top-eight finishes. Two took third place in Lee Anne Coon (100 pounds) and Kailyn Penkov (185), two were fourth in Annie Barr (126) and Grace Simmons (132), two ended fifth in Jalee Lender (152) and Kourtney Smith (235) and Morgan Malone placed eighth at 138 pounds.

Keyser finished sixth as a team and had five state qualifiers: Morgan Jones (126 pounds, second place), Mya Burgess (132, second), Kandice Dixon (107, third), Libby Delsignore (114, 5th) and Khloe Cosner (152, eighth).

East Hardy’s Morganne Miller was the runner-up in the 145-pound class, Madilyn Funk was sixth at 120 pounds, and Chloe D’Amico placed eighth at 132.

Petersburg’s Kaitlin Booth was seventh at 114 pounds, and Hampshire’s Avery Steinmetz placed eighth at 120.

Md. Regionals Friday at Garrett College

MCHENRY — The two-day Maryland Class 2A/1A West Region wrestling tournament begins Friday at Garrett College.

Competition begins with the girls individual tournament on Friday at 4:30 p.m.

The co-ed region tournament on Saturday begins at 9:30 a.m.

Admission is $12 and is free for ages 6 and under. Tickets can be purchased on the GoFan website or app. There will be no on-site ticket sales.

COLLEGE PARK — In the first year of Northern’s and Southern’s swimming programs, the two schools combined to send six athletes to the Maryland state championship meet.

The meet was held last Saturday at the University of Maryland’s Eppley Recreation Center.

Northern sent five student-athletes while Southern had one.

Rowan Rikhye of the Huskies was one of three freshman boys to podium in the Class 3A/2A/1A meet.

He placed eighth in the 200-yard freestyle, timing 1:51 flat, and was 10th in the 100 freestyle at 51:44.

Rikhye was the only freshman in the top 10 of the 100 freestyle.

“Rowan delivered a truly remarkable performance this season,” Northern assistant coach Somi Rikhye said. “What makes this even more extraordinary is that he accomplished all of it while battling illness throughout the week. His toughness, talent, and drive set the tone for what we believe will be an incredible future.”

Freshman Lilah Rikhye finished 18th in the girls’ 200 individual medley, finishing in 2:29:97.

“Lilah also had an outstanding season and proved herself as one of the top emerging swimmers in the state,” coach Rikhye said. “Competing in the 200 medley, she achieved a personal best and finished 18th in the state as a freshman, an incredible accomplishment. Her work ethic and discipline have been exceptional all year.”

Kirstin Ellis, Mary Thrush, Lula Faulkner and Lilah Rikhye combined for the 200 freestyle relay, placing 22nd with a time of 2:01:52.

It was a season-best time by 3:07 seconds.

“Our freshman relay group showed something truly special this year,” coach Rikhye said. “The four swimmers consistently improved with every race, working together and growing as a unit. Their chemistry, commitment, and steady progress point to enormous potential in the years ahead.”

Northern was the recipient of the Doug Southerland Sportsmanship Award, given to the team that shows the best overall sportsmanship during the state title meet.

“We are also incredibly honored to have received the Sportsmanship Award,” coach Rikhye said. “In our first year, Northern Garrett High School made a splash at the state level and proudly represented Western Maryland. We felt welcomed and respected at both regional and state meets, and that meant a great deal to our team.”

Southern’s Kathryn Sweitzer qualified in two events.

Sweitzer placed 19th in the 500-yard freestyle, timing 6:03:26 and 22nd in the 100 backstroke at 1:11:87.

“Kathryn is Southern’s first swimmer to compete at the State Meet,” Southern head coach Alison Sweitzer said. “It is exciting to see her pride at being able to represent her school at this level. Swimming is a sport rooted in consistency. She trains day in and day out, often when no one is watching. The enthusiasm from her fellow teammates and support from the Southern community as a whole was wonderful.”

Northern had seven swimmers on the roster this season, while Southern had four.

Competing at states against schools with up to 1,200 students, both programs feel optimistic about the future.

“This first season was a success in so many ways,” coach Sweitzer said. “Southern had four swimmers who excelled, improved, and represented the Rams in a special way,”

“Records were made, and we had critical support from our fellow Northern team. Members of the Indoor Track team and our very own Student Member of the Board volunteered to work our home meet. This program will grow and enrich so many Garrett County students.”

Boston Celtics rookie Hugo Gonzalez received quite the praise from Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic after their two teams squared off this past Sunday. Both players have played for Real Madrid basketball team at a young age, helping pave the way for their NBA careers, with Doncic becoming one of the best players in the world, since entering the NBA in the 2018 draft.

Speaking with reporters after the game on Sunday, Doncic said it was very special to play against Gonzalez after their previous encounters with Real Madrid, to which the Celtics rookie took a lot of respect from. Doncic said Gonzalez is an amazing person and amazing player, and on Tuesday night, Gonzalez responded by saying the Lakers star is an example for everybody.

Hugo González responded to Luka Dončić's well wishes for him after their first matchup in LA the other day with @RealBobManning tonight: "It was great ... for any guy that's coming out of the (Real Madrid) academy, he's an example for everybody." @CLNSMediapic.twitter.com/3q2HLHNqNr

— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) February 25, 2026

"He's an example for everybody," Gonzalez told CLNS Media. "The best situation you could ever be in (in Real Madrid), he's also a great person and we have a great relationship. He did his first two camps in Madrid in the city that I was living in, and I asked him for a photo, I was lucky that his first two camps were in my city."

Doncic would add to his praise for Gonzalez, saying he's a "high-effort player, who is all around the court. It's only his first year, he's still has time to learn and I think he's going to be a very important piece for every team he plays for."

Coming to Boston as the 28th overall pick in this year's draft, Gonzalez has earned the trust of Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla with his aforementioned high effort, and tenacious defense. On a team that has had opportunities for others to shine due to injury and the loss of Jayson Tatum, Gonzalez has surprised many by making a considerable rookie impact.

Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:

Blue Wire: https://tiny.ee/CdKp

iTunes: https://tiny.ee/RK47

YouTube: https://tiny.ee/cOW3

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Hugo Gonzalez and Luka Doncic share mutual respect for each other

Patriots, Bills, Ravens named possible trade suitors for $96 million wide receiver originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

When it comes to wide receiver-needy teams, all eyes are on Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown.

That's because Brown has been floated as a trade candidate this offseason thanks to his dissatisfaction with the Eagles' offense in recent years.

While head coach Nick Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman have said they want to keep the wideout, they also didn't close the door on a trade.

"Will A.J. be here next season? I think we're still in a spot, like, I can't guarantee how anything is going to play out into next season. I'm thinking I'm going to be the coach next season, but you can't guarantee anything past tomorrow," Sirianni said.

In an article ranking the top trade candidates this offseason, ESPN's Ben Solak put Brown on the list and believes there's a 60% chance he gets dealt.

Solak listed the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens as possible suitors if Brown hits the trade block.

Brown's individual play seemed to fall off a touch last season, but it's fair to believe his frustration with the offense led to some disinterested play. An acquiring team is risking that Brown is beyond his athletic prime (he will turn 29 this summer), but he has only one year of guaranteed money on his deal, so it would not be too big of a commitment. And the recent ceiling of Brown's play has been top-five receiver level. He had 1,003 yards last season, and he has tallied at least seven touchdowns in each of the past four campaigns.

Predicted chance of getting traded: 60%
Potential team fits: Patriots, Bills, Ravens

All three of those teams make sense as landing spots for Brown.

The Patriots could cut Stefon Diggs this offseason thanks to a huge cap hit. Even if they bring him back, the Pats need more depth in a room that is otherwise young and unproven.

The Bills are in rough shape at wide receiver after striking out on Keon Coleman in the draft and Joshua Palmer in free agency in recent years. Khalil Shakir is a solid target for Josh Allen, but Buffalo needs a lot more and preferably a true No. 1.

Baltimore's need at receiver isn't as dire, but there's definitely still a need there. Zay Flowers has been a reliable target for Lamar Jackson, but he doesn't have much support from Rashod Bateman and DeAndre Hopkins is a pending free agent.

We like the Patriots as the most likely landing spot for Brown of these three teams thanks to their cap space, stable of draft picks and head coach Mike Vrabel's connection with Brown from their days together with the Tennessee Titans.

The Bills have all the motivation in the world to make a strong push for Brown, but they are in rough shape financially and acquiring Brown could seriously hinder the team's ability to address multiple other needs.

Baltimore is a middle-of-the-road option with a sufficient amount of cap space, but the Ravens also have bigger fish to fry on defense and could opt to spend their resources there instead of investing in another wideout.

More NFL News

• Jets trade rumor could lead to deal with Eagles or Texans
• Vikings trade rumor could lead to deal with Giants, Steelers or Raiders
• 49ers' Mac Jones admission is good news for Steelers, Vikings, Jets, Dolphins
• Maxx Crosby update from Raiders sends mixed signals to potential suitors
• Malik Nabers injury update from Giants at combine gives target return date

MOOREFIELD, W.Va. — Moorefield completed a regular season sweep of No. 3 Frankfort winning 58-54 at home on Tuesday.

The Yellow Jackets (7-13) won 48-47 on Jan. 14.

Tied at 32 heading to the fourth, The Jackets outscored the Falcons (13-8) in the fourth quarter 16-12.

Cyrus Kump scored five points in the fourth and finished with a team-high 20 for Moorefield.

Shawn Reed scored six of his 13 points in the final frame while Jackson Helmick hit a pair of triples and scored 10 points.

Jeremy Phillips led both teams with 26 points for Frankfort, scoring 18 in the first half with five triples.

Kycin Waites and Ken'Yen Smith each scored 10 points for the Falcons.

Frankfort led 18-14 after one and 32-31 at halftime.

Moorefield's junior varsity won 35-21 led by Luke Stutler with 18 points and Bill Lewis with 10.

Jordan Morris led the Falcons with seven points.

Frankfort hosts Musselman on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Moorefield's at Pocahontas County on Thursday at 7:15 p.m.

East Hardy 66, Pendleton County 34

FRANKLIN, W.Va. — East Hardy shut down Pendleton County in the second half, holding the Wildcats (13-7) to nine points in a road win on Tuesday.

Leading 17-9 after one and 37-25 at halftime, the Cougars (17-4) outscored Pendleton 13-2 in the third quarter and 16-7 in the fourth.

Gideon Good scored 10 points in each half and led both teams with 20 points for East Hardy.

Joseph Price scored 11 of his 18 points after halftime while Evan Hamilton finished with 14 points.

Chase Owens led the Wildcats with 11 points.

The Cougars end the regular season at Petersburg (14-5) on Wednesday.

The Maryland Class 1A West Region I playoff brackets were finalized this week with the Fort Hill boys and Southern girls capturing the top seeds.

Fort Hill, which won the Western Maryland Athletic Conference for a fourth straight year with a 7-1 record, earned a first-round bye to the region semifinals by virtue of its 15-6 finish.

The two-time reigning state runner-up Southern girls also snagged a bye to the last four of the region following their 17-5 season. The Rams won the WestMAC for a third straight season, finishing 8-0 a second year in a row.

The Fort Hill boys will take on the winner of No. 4 Mountain Ridge (11-9) and No. 5 Northern (9-12), a region quarterfinal matchup that takes place on Friday at 6 p.m. in Frostburg.

Elsewhere in the quarterfinals, No. 2 Southern (14-8) hosts No. 7 Hancock (5-16) on Friday at 6 p.m., and No. 3 Allegany (12-8) welcomes No. 6 Clear Spring (6-16) on Friday at 5:30 p.m.

Fort Hill has won the last three 1A West Region I championships, advancing to the state semifinals in 2022-23 and '23-24 and falling in the quarterfinal round last season to eventual state champion Cambridge-South Dorchester.

On the girls side, the Rams will await the team that emerges victorious from No. 4 Fort Hill (10-11) and No. 5 Mountain Ridge (10-12), which tips off on Saturday at 1 p.m. in Cumberland.

The region semifinal in Oakland will take place on Tuesday, March 3, at 6 p.m. according to Southern Athletic Director Matt Redinger.

The other two region quarterfinals are also both slated for Saturday at 1 p.m.

No. 2 Allegany (14-6) hosts No. 7 Clear Spring (3-16), and No. 3 Northern (13-8) welcomes No. 6 Hancock (5-13).

Southern has won the past two 1A West Region I championships. Both runs ended as state runner-up to Pikesville, which has won the past five Class 1A titles under Michael Dukes.

Md. state finals move to UMBC

The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association announced earlier this month it's moving the boys and girls state championship games to UMBC’s Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena beginning this year.

The championship games previously were played at the University of Maryland's XFinity Center.

It will mark the first time the boys finals will be held at a site other than the University of Maryland since 1947. It was held at the XFinity Center from 2003-25, Cole Field House from 1956-01 and Ritchie Coliseum from 1947-55.

Those sites hosted both state semifinals and final until 2021 when the state moved to hold semifinals at neutral sites and the boys and girls finals both at Maryland.

Before that, the girls semifinals and finals took place at Towson University between 2014-19, UMBC from 1993-2013 and Catonsville Community from 1973-92.

W.Va. girls playoffs begin Thursday

The West Virginia girls region tournaments begin later this week.

The West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission did away with sectional tournaments last season, opting instead for single-elimination region play to begin immediately.

Keyser (16-3) is the No. 1 seed in the Class AAA, Region II playoffs and needs to win just one game to qualify for the state tournament for a third straight season.

The Golden Tornado will face the winner of No. 4 Elkins (8-9) and No. 5 Bridgeport (6-15) in the region co-finals in a state qualifier on Tuesday, March 3, at 7 p.m.

Hampshire (13-8) is seeded third in the same region and plays a first-round game against No. 6 Robert C. Byrd (6-15) on Thursday at 7 p.m.

If the Trojans win, they'll play a state qualifier against No. 2 Lewis County (13-7) on Tuesday, March 3, at 7 p.m.

In the Class AA, Region II playoffs, No. 4 Moorefield (7-13) hosts No. 5 Frankfort (11-10) in the first round on Friday at 7 p.m. The Yellow Jackets swept the Falcons, 53-34 and 38-27, during the regular season.

The winner of that contest will square off with the victor of No. 1 Lincoln (13-8) and No. 8 South Harrison (2-13) in the region co-finals for a spot in the Class AA state tournament on Thursday, March 5, at 7 p.m.

Petersburg had its four-year state tourney berth streak snapped last year, and it hopes to start another. The Vikings (14-6), seeded third, welcome No. 6 Braxton County (9-13) on Friday at 7 p.m. in their playoff opener.

That game's victor faces the winner of No. 2 Philip Barbour (14-8) and No. 7 Berkeley Springs (11-10) for a berth at states on Thursday, March 5, at 7 p.m.

In the Class A, Region II playoffs, No. 5 Paw Paw (7-7) heads to No. 4 Pendleton County (9-11), No. 6 East Hardy (1-16) visits No. 3 Tygarts Valley (11-6), and No. 7 Union (1-13) hits the road to face No. 2 Pocahontas County (17-2).

All three first-round matchups take place on Thursday at 7 p.m.

Juventus staged a heroic comeback after Lloyd Kelly’s red card to force Galatasaray into extra time 3-0 on the night, but Victor Osimhen sealed their Champions League exit 5-7 on aggregate.

The Bianconeri had a very slim chance of qualifying after the 5-2 first leg defeat in Istanbul, where they had been leading 2-1 until collapsing with Juan Cabal’s red card. He was suspended along with Andrea Cambiaso, plus Emil Holm, Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik injured, Gleison Bremer only fit for the bench, and Kenan Yildiz starting despite not being at 100 per cent. Victor Osimhen shrugged off a knee issue to start with fellow ex-Napoli man Noa Lang, while Mario Lemina returned from suspension.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Juventus start team eleven before the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Their capitulation in the first leg was part of a general crisis for Juve, who had one draw in the last five competitive games going into this clash, going out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final and sliding to fifth in Serie A.

There were two big early chances, as Federico Gatti and Teun Koopmeiners couldn’t keep their headers down from six yards, but Mattia Perin made a great save on Osimhen’s volley from a flicked-on throw-in. The goalkeeper stepped in after a series of damaging Michele Di Gregorio howlers.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray reacts against Federico Gatti of Juventus FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Osimhen sprinted back trying to help the defence, instead clattering makeshift left-back Weston McKennie for a yellow card, while Manuel Locatelli stung the goalkeeper’s gloves from distance and Francisco Conceicao curled wide on the resulting corner.

Kenan Yildiz forced a fantastic save from Urugcan Cakir at the near post after his shot took a deflection off Davinson Sanchez.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Kenan Yıldız of Juventus FC drives the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Davinson Sanchez also made an error to spark the Juve attack that resulted in a clumsy Torreira sliding tackle through the back of Khephren Thuram inside the area. Manuel Locatelli converted the penalty to get the Old Lady back in this tie at 3-5 on aggregate.

Jonathan David’s very heavy first touch ruined a Kenan Yildiz roll across just before half-time, with Thuram drilling the rebound wide.

Juventus went a man down in Istanbul and it happened again in Turin, albeit in bizarre circumstances. Kelly landed awkwardly and on top of Baris Alper Yilmaz’s calf, so the referee awarded a second yellow card. As the defender was arguing he hadn’t done it on purpose, the referee was called over for the VAR review and changed it to a straight red card instead.

Even down to 10 men, Juve still threatened a goal when Kenan Yildiz squirmed between two and got the finish deflected inches wide of the near post.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Referee João Pinheiro shows the red card to Lloyd Kelly of Juventus FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Gatti also nodded over again, but finally got a finish on target when he tapped in at the back post on a Pierre Kalulu low cross from the right, making it 4-5 on aggregate.

Osimhen fired over and it was so nearly 5-5 on aggregate with Thuram’s final contribution before being substituted, as he burst into the box and drew out the goalkeeper, floating his lob over the empty net.

Juve came even closer moments later, as Yildiz at full stretch volleyed the Jeremie Boga cross onto the upright from point-blank range.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus FC celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

It was only a warning, as an Edon Zhegrova free kick was knocked down by Koopmeiners for the McKennie header at the far post to make it 3-0 on the night, 5-5 on aggregate.

Galatasaray threatened on the counter in stoppages, but Baris Alper Yilmaz chose completely the wrong pass for Osimhen, while Kenan Yildiz drilled wide from the edge of the box.

The teams could not be separated and it went to extra time, despite the Bianconeri being down to 10 men since the 48^th minute.

Juve continued to attack and should’ve scored a fourth when Boga rolled across from the left, but McKennie laid it off for Zhegrova to bend horribly wide from 12 yards.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates with teammate Kenan Yıldız after scoring the third goal of his team during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Eren Elmali came sliding in at the far post, just unable to connect with the Leroy Sane cross, but Galatasaray did restore their advantage on aggregate when Gatti slipped trying to intercept the Baris Alper Yilmaz assist and Osimhen drilled the finish through Perin’s legs at the near post.

Juventus kept pushing even with 10 men for an hour, as Zhegrova’s ferocious strike from a tight angle was palmed away, Filip Kostic slipping to fire the rebound wide, then Boga fired a couple of efforts off target.

In the final moments, an inspired Wilfried Singo through ball saw both Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz spring the offside trap, the latter beating on-rushing Perin for Galatasaray to qualify 7-5 on aggregate.

Yılmaz puts it beyond doubt for Galatasaray as they march into the Champions League round of 16 💫@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/dlW3XgeE23

There was still applause from the crowd, who appreciated the extraordinary effort made.

Juventus 3-2 Galatasaray aet (5-7 agg)

Locatelli pen 37 (J), Gatti 70 (J), McKennie 82 (J), Osimhen 105 (G), Baris Alper Yilmaz 119 (G)

Sent off: Kelly 48 (J)

Joe Gibbs Racing has asked a federal court to enforce an 18-month non-compete clause against its former competition director Chris Gabehart that would prevent him from accepting a similar position with Spire Motorsports.

JGR contends in a document filed in US District Court in Charlotte, North Carolina, that since Gabehart wasn’t terminated “without cause,” the non-compete restriction applies.

JGR is requesting a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction that would prevent Gabehart and Spire Motorsports from competing against JGR. Spire Motorsports has announced it has hired Gabehart as its chief motorsports officer.

The hearing on the request for the restraining order is scheduled for Friday.

JGR is seeking more than $8 million in compensatory and punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.

On Wednesday, the day after JGR added Spire Motorsports to its federal suit, a summons was issued informing Spire it had been named in JGR’s civil action. Spire must file its response within 21 days.

JGR maintains the injunction it requests doesn’t prohibit Gabehart from working in stock car racing or at Spire. It only prevents him from performing the same job functions he performed at JGR for “a limited and identified number of competitive teams.”

JGR contends that Gabehart’s actions “injured JGR’s standing in the marketplace by diminishing the value of its trade secrets, reducing JGR’s competitive advantages, and enabling Spire—and potentially other competitors—to unfairly compete against JGR in NASCAR races.”

Gabehart’s former employer contends that allowing Gabehart and Spire to compete against JGR would be in violation of Gabehart’s contractual obligations. JGR also wants the temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction issued to keep the two from “retaining, using, disclosing, and misappropriating JGR’s confidential information and trade secrets.” The team also contends that Gabehart agreed not to recruit JGR employees for 18 months after his termination from JGR.

JGR contends that the day after Gabehart announced his decision to leave the Huntersville, North Carolina, team in November 2025, he sat down at his JGR issued computer while it was connected to JGR’s network, and for 15 minutes used his personal cell phone to take at least 20 pictures of several things including:

• How much JGR pays its drivers.
• Complete team payroll details.
• JGR’s revenues from sponsors, partners, and other sources of income for 2024, 2025, and 2026 NASCAR seasons.
• JGR’s comprehensive post-race audit and analyses of team and driver performance for the 2025 NASCAR season.
• JGR’s pit crew analytics for the 2024 NASCAR season.

JGR also contends that Gabehart saved JGR files on his personal Google Drive showing:

• JGR’s car setups during the 2025 season.
• Proprietary engine outputs and recommended gear shift points.
• The manner in which JGR sorts, picks out, and runs tires through a race.
• How JGR measures its own cars’ fuel usage during a race and predicts other teams’ fuel usage.

Six schools have made the cut for Downingtown East (Pa.) four-star EDGE Abraham Sesay.

The 6-foot-4.5, 225-pounder told Rivals’ Hayes Fawcett on Wednesday that he’s down to Duke, Florida State, Miami, Notre Dame, Penn State and South Carolina.

Sesay is the No. 77 overall prospect and No. 10 EDGE in the 2027 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 4 recruit in Pennsylvania.

Rivals ranks Sesay higher than other recruiting services. He checks in as the No. 38 recruit, No. 5 EDGE and No. 3 player in the Keystone State in the updated Rivals300.

There’s a noticeable omission from Sesay’s top six, as Ohio State entered this week as the program trending for his pledge, per the Rivals Recruiting Prediction Machine. The Buckeyes were among the teams that had him on campus back in the fall.

This story will be updated with more information.

When the Pittsburgh Steelers go on the clock in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft, they could go any number of directions with that choice. The consensus among NFL draft pundits is wide receiver with quarterback a distant second. Today, we are taking a look at two different mock drafts from two of the most respected draft analysts in the industry to see if they agree on the Steelers.

First up we have Mel Kiper Jr. from ESPN. Kiper decided to roll the dice on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 21 overall pick. Here's what he had to say about the pick:

The Steelers have to think about the QB position with a longer-view lens. They could bring back Aaron Rodgers or opt for another veteran stopgap to keep them in contention next season, but even if they go that route, they should still address their future at the position. Simpson has just 15 starts to his name, and his 2025 season was uneven, but his game has a lot of promise. He navigates the pocket well and threw 28 touchdown passes to just five interceptions last season. Pittsburgh could let him learn behind a veteran for a little while before turning the offense over to him.

Next up it's NFL Network's Bucky Brooks. He opted for USC wide receiver Makai Lemon with that Steelers first-round pick. Here's what Brooks had to say about it:

If Mike McCarthy gets Aaron Rodgers to stick around for another year, the Steelers could take a wideout with exceptional running skills to elevate a passing game that will feature more short and intermediate throws. Lemon is a versatile playmaker with a game that will enable him to work effectively from out wide or in the slot at the pro level.

The reality of this situation is that Pittsburgh could be eyeing down this exact scenario. And to be honest, whether or not the Steelers bring back quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the option of taking Simpson would still be on the table. Simpson has a perfect opportunity at the NFL Scouting Combine to close the gap between him and Fernando Mendoza, separate himself from that next tier of quarterbacks and cement his spot in the first round.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Comparing Steelers' picks from two major mock drafts

There is so much going on during the week of the NFL Scouting Combine. News flies around at a furious pace as all the teams congregate in Indianapolis.

For as much happens on the field with potential draft prospects testing their physical abilities, there is even more that goes on behind what fans will see through a camera.

One of the most crucial things will be teams meeting with prospects for the first time. It is a chance for front offices to get an impression of who they could very well be drafting in a few months.

The Cincinnati Bengals are no exception here. Players’ agents leak out which teams talked to their guy, and we as fans can get a microcosm of who a team might be interested in.

Is this a perfect science? No, obviously not. However it can be a piece to the puzzle we see finished following the draft.

Here is who the Bengals have reportedly met with at the Scouting Combine

• Miami DL Rueban Bain Jr.
• Ohio State LB Sonny Styles
• Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey
• Ole Miss DT Zxavian Harris
• Clemson DT Peter Woods
• Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald

Four years ago, the Cleveland Browns “won” the Deshaun Watson sweepstakes by getting the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback to agree to a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract. But before they could get him to sign on the dotted line, the Browns had to send three first-round picks, a third-round pick, plus two fourth-round selections.

Those draft picks turned into DT Jordan Davis, RB Jahmyr Gibbs, WR Brian Thomas, WR Jalin Hyatt, RB Dameon Pierce, and TE Cade Stover. It’s been deemed as the worst trade in NFL history, which stings for a Browns franchise that was already desperate enough to make such a bold move for who they thought would be their franchise quarterback for years to come.

Yet, Watson has been anything but. He’s yet to start more than seven games in a single season with the Browns, and has only made 19 starts in three seasons in Cleveland. He’s completed just 61.2% of his passes for 3,365 passing yards, 19 TDs, 12 interceptions, while leading the Browns to a 9-10 record in the process.

Now 30 years old, Watson is headed into the final year of his contract, but he has a cap hit of $80.7 million. Considering how poorly he’s played as a member of the Browns, while given his enormous cap hit, some have wondered if the new coaching staff wouldn’t have any interest in having Watson as part of the new-look QB room.

Yet, according to first-year head coach Todd Monken, that couldn’t be further from the case. Rather, he sounds excited for the opportunity to work with Watson, and possibly even help the QB regain his elite form from his days in a Texans uniform.

If there’s any semblance of hope that the Browns can still get some positive production out of Watson, then it’s up to Monken to figure it out. If not, Watson will be a free agent at the end of the 2026 season anyway, and then the Browns can finally move forward from arguably their biggest mistake yet. Or, maybe Watson can prove everyone wrong and get back to being the MVP candidate he was in Houston.

Related: Cleveland Browns Hire 75-Year-Old Former NFL Head Coach

Related Headlines

• Carolina Panthers Considering Quarterback Trade Offers
• San Francisco 49ers Admit They’re Willing to Trade Coveted Pro Bowler
• Buffalo Bills Viewed as Trade Fit for Young Pro Bowl Receiver

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Dallas Stars surged into the Olympic break on a six-game winning streak. The Minnesota Wild won their last five games to finish 8-1-1 before the NHL 's three-week schedule pause.

Both teams have maintained top-five records in the league for much of the season — and they've constantly been trying to catch the rival Colorado Avalanche.

Such has been the predicament in the powerful Central Division, where the NHL's siloed playoff format would pit the Stars against the Wild in the first round if the standings were to stay this way. The Avalanche would then be favored to face the winner in the divisional bracket, likely bouncing two of the top five teams in the league from the postseason by the second round.

“It’s a fun division to be a part of,” Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson said, “because every game really matters.”

The Avalanche went 37-9-9 for an NHL-leading 83 points before the break, a sparkling record that has actually lost some luster from earlier this winter. They led the division by 12 points on Jan. 11, but the Wild (34-14-10) with 78 points and Stars (34-14-9) with 77 points have narrowed their gaps.

Colorado came out of the break with a game at Utah on Wednesday, when Dallas hosted Seattle. Minnesota had an extra day before playing at, conveniently, Colorado on Thursday.

“They become a little bit more human now and are losing a few games, so if we win tomorrow and get on a little run we might be able to catch up some ground to them,” Gustavsson said after practice on Wednesday.

Colorado and Dallas play three more times. The Stars won the first matchup with the Avalanche in a shootout. Dallas and Minnesota meet twice more, having split their first two games. The Avalanche and the Wild play two more times after splitting their first two matchups, with the Wild's win coming in a shootout.

“We pretty much have to sweep them, and we’ve got to greatly outplay them to take that spot,” Stars center Matt Duchene said. “So could it be done? Yes. Will it be done? Probably not, to be honest, but that’s OK. It feels like in our division we’ve got go through the gauntlet every year, and we’re ready for that.”

The Avalanche had four players competing in the Olympic gold medal game in Italy on Sunday, alongside three from the Wild and two from the Stars. The three teams combined sent 23 players to the Winter Games, making the final stretch all the more intriguing. Not only will each club need to recreate the momentum it had prior to the break, but the Olympians — particularly the Americans and Canadians — must be reintegrated after not getting the time off that most of their NHL peers had.

The Stars are expecting to miss leading scorer Mikko Rantanen for multiple weeks after he suffered a lower-body injury with Finland in the Olympics.

“My experience with these streaks is that when you have a big break like this, it kind of interrupts the rhythm,” Stars coach Glen Gulutzan said.

But that doesn't mean he's expecting a fade, considering his team's recent performance.

“There was a very clear visual of what our players felt they were doing better and we as coaches felt we were doing better in those five or six games than we had prior,” Gulutzan said, “and I that hasn’t left us.”

With defensemen Quinn Hughes and Brock Faber and forward Matt Boldy winning gold medals for the U.S. and then heading to the White House during their whirlwind celebratory return, the Wild will have three key players who've been on the go the whole time. But they're young — and the experience ought to help them come playoff time, coach John Hynes said.

“When you get in those environments of high-stakes games, really it’s like three Game 7s because you have a quarterfinal, and then you have a semifinal, and then you have a medal game, and they’re all one and done,” Hynes said, as he broke down the benefits: “The preparation, understanding of how to play in those situations with that type of pressure and fanfare and knowing that one mistake could cost the game.”

___

AP Sports Writer Stephen Hawkins in Dallas contributed to this report.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL

Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League Round of 16 after a 2-1 victory over Benfica on Wednesday, which ensured a 3-1 aggregate success in their play-off round tie.

As per Diario AS, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa gave his thoughts on the match. He explained that it was difficult for his side in the opening stages, but they got better as proceedings went on.

“In any game you’re not going to have it easy. You’re going to suffer, it’s the best competition in Europe. They pressed us, it was difficult for us to get out, there was space at the back and we didn’t take advantage of it. Until we corrected that a little after half time, and that’s when we did better. We went from strength to strength.”

Arbeloa: Tchouameni is going to score goals for Real Madrid

Arbeloa was pleased with the performance of Aurelien Tchouameni, who scored Real Madrid’s equaliser on the night.

“Tchouameni’s goal was very important. We’ve talked about it a lot these days, he’s at a spectacular level. If he was able to accompany, he was going to score goals. It’s the first of many he’s going to score, I hope.”

Vinicius “must be our leader and our reference” – Arbeloa

Arbeloa also heaped praise on Vinicius Junior, who scored once again.

“He played a great game, very unbalanced, scoring goals, creating danger. He has a lot of MVPs at home so it is good for Tchouameni to get this one – he does the dirty work that is usually not recognised much. When Mbappe was there we already needed him, and now that he is not, we need him much more. He must be our leader and our reference. We have seen that he can make a difference.”

Image via Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Arbeloa clarifies Asencio, Mbappe injury cases

Raul Asencio was forced off in the second half after taking a blow to his head, and Arbeloa has confirmed that the Real Madrid defender has gone to hospital. However, he does not believe the issue to be serious.

“It looks like something with the neck, it doesn’t seem serious. He has gone to the hospital, hopefully it is just a scare. The blow has been tremendous, our stomachs have shrunk. But it looks like it’s going to be nothing.”

Arbeloa also explained the situation with Kylian Mbappe, who dropped out of the squad to face Benfica at the last minute.

“I can’t say the difference between discomfort and injury. The best thing was to stop and recover. He can’t play. We hope he will be back in a few days or weeks.”

Delivering a performance full of courage and once again reduced to 10 men in the second half, the Red and Whites stood up to PSG in the Champions League play-off return leg and exit the competition with their heads held high (2-2).

The upset was within reach. Ahead at half time, the AS Monaco players – later reduced to 10 men around the hour mark and then trailing – kept believing until the very end as they stood up to PSG, the reigning Champions League holders (2–2). A cruel elimination in the playoffs that should not overshadow the courage-filled performance of the Rouge et Blanc. Match report. ✍️

The context 📅

Beaten 2-3 in the first leg at the Stade Louis-II after playing with a numerical disadvantage for 45 minutes, the Rouge et Blanc still had every chance in this Champions League playoff against PSG. But to do so, they needed to deliver a complete performance and overturn a statistic provided by Opta, which stated that, since the away goals rule was abolished, 92% of teams that won the first leg away from home have gone on to qualify.

We’ll have to play our game while taking every factor into account, even if we shouldn’t overthink things. Above all, we’ll try to stick to the game plan we want to implement tomorrow and approach it with a mindset focused on pushing toward an outcome that keeps all hopes alive, and obviously, the earlier in the match, the better.

The lineup 👥

For the second leg, Sébastien Pocognoli lined his team up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, as Maghnes Akliouche returned to the starting XI behind Folarin Balogun and alongside Mamadou Coulibaly. Aladji Bamba, who impressed off the bench in Lens, started in midfield with Lamine Camara. Meanwhile, Denis Zakaria was once again deployed in central defence, alongside Wout Faes and Thilo Kehrer, who was absent last week.

The scenario 🎞

Backed by nearly 1,500 Monaco supporters in the away end, the Rouge et Blanc made a strong start as a Wout Faes effort went just wide (5′). DDominant and present in every duel, they then came close to opening the scoring through Mamadou Coulibaly, but his effort from six yards sailed over the bar (9’). Shortly after, a header from Thilo Kehrer also skimmed past Matvei Safonov’s post (11’).

Effective pressing from Monaco

Having applied intense pressure in PSG’s half, as shown by the five ball recoveries in the attacking third in the opening half-hour, the club from the Rock carved out another chance through Lamine Camara, whose long-range strike was saved by PSG’s Russian goalkeeper (30’). The two sides then went blow for blow: first Folarin Balogun forced Safonov into a fingertip save (38’), before Bradley Barcola saw his effort crash against the crossbar (41’).

A perfect 24th birthday for Maghnes

As the match was heading toward a goalless half time, Mamadou Coulibaly played a clever pass into the box for Maghnes Akliouche to finish with the help of the post on his 24th birthday (0–1). A #MadeInLaDiagonale goal that level the score in the playoff!

Right after the restart, PSG threatened through João Neves, whose dinked header was pushed away for a corner by Philipp Köhn (50′). Unfortunately, the Monégasques were once again reduced to 10 men after Mamadou received a second yellow (59′).

A terrible seven minutes

The situation turned disastrous, especially as Monaco conceded an equaliser in the very next play via Marquinhos (1-1, 61′), then fell behind when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia doubled PSG’s aggregate lead from close range (2-1, 66′). Sébastien Pocognoli then maked a triple substitution, which saw Christian Mawissa return to action (74′). PSG subsequently dominated possession, and it took a superb save from Philipp to stop a powerful Désiré Doué shot (78′).

An almost miraculous feat

The Red and Whites absorbed the pressure and then broke on the counter through Simon Adingra, who found Jordan Teze to score the equaliser (2-2, 91′). An equaliser was possible in stoppage time, and from a final free kick from Lamine Camara, Wout Faes’ header narrowly missed the target (94′).

Frustratingly, the referee blew the final whistle shortly afterwards to confirm the draw on the night (2-2), meaning a cruel elimination for AS Monaco in this Champions League play-off. Now, attention turns to the 24th matchday of Ligue 1 and the home game against Angers on Saturday (19:00) at Stade Louis-II.

The highlights 🎥

5′: Faes’ attempt went wide of Safonov’s goal 9′: Coulibaly’s shot from six yards goes over the bar 11′: Kehrer’s angled header goes left of the post 30′: Camara’s long-range strike saved by Safonov 31′: Doué’s powerful shot from the edge of the box sails well over 38′: Balogun forces Safonov into a fingertip save from a lob 41′: Barcola hits the crossbar45′: Akliouche opens the scoring with a left-footed shot off the post (0-1)50′: Köhn turns away Neves’ dinked header for a corner61′: Marquinhos scores the equaliser from close range (1-1) 66′: Kvaratskhelia scores from close range after Köhn’s save (2-1)78′: Köhn makes a near-post save from Doué91′: Teze converts Adingra’s cross to equalize (2-2)94′: Faes narrowly misses a header from Camara’s cross

The stat 📊

Maghnes Akliouche has been involved in four goals in 10 Champions League matches this season (1 goal, 3 assists), matching his output in the same number of appearances last season (2 goals, 2 assists). At 24, the Monaco player becomes the first player for a French club to score on his birthday in the Champions League since Ángel Di María (who scored twice at 29) and Edinson Cavani (30) for PSG on February 14, 2017, against Barcelona.

🗓️ The match sheet:

Wednesday 25 February 2026 (21:00) – Parc des Princes

Champions League – Second leg play-off: PSG 2-2 AS Monaco

Half time: 0-1

Goals: Marquinhos (61′), Kvaratskhelia (66′) for PSG; Akliouche (45′), Teze (91′) for AS Monaco

Yellow cards: Zakaria (24′), Vanderson (48′), Coulibaly (55′), (59′) for AS Monaco

Red cards: Coulibaly (59′) for AS Monaco

PSG: Safonov – Hakimi, Marquinhos ©, Pacho, Nuno Mendes (Hernandez, 80′) – Zaïre-Emery (Dro Fernández, 88′), Vitinha, João Neves – Barcola (Lee, 69′), Doué (Ramos, 88′), Kvaratskhelia

Substitutes: Chevalier, Marin, Beraldo, Hernandez, Zabarnyi, Lee Kang-In, Dro Fernández, Mbaye, Ramos

Coach: Luis Enrique

Paris Saint-Germain secured their place in the Champions League last 16 after a 2-2 draw with AS Monaco in the second leg of their playoff tie.

Holding an aggregate advantage from the first leg, PSG did enough over the two matches to progress despite being pushed hard at the Parc des Princes.

Monaco began with intent and were rewarded just before the break.

Mamadou Coulibaly slipped a precise pass into the path of Maghnes Akliouche, who finished first time into the bottom corner via the post to give the visitors the lead on the night.

The goal levelled the tie’s momentum and underlined Monaco’s positive approach.

PSG had threatened earlier through Bradley Barcola, whose effort struck the crossbar from a tight angle, but the hosts struggled to impose sustained control in the opening half.

The turning point arrived shortly before the hour mark.

Coulibaly, already on a booking, was shown a second yellow card for a late challenge on Achraf Hakimi, reducing Monaco to ten men.

PSG capitalised almost immediately.

Desire Doue advanced down the right and delivered a low cross that was turned home by Marquinhos from close range to restore parity on the night.

With the extra man advantage, the holders began to dominate territory and possession.

Their pressure told again in the 66th minute.

Hakimi’s powerful effort was parried by Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Kohn, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia reacted quickest to convert the rebound from inside the box.

At 2-1 on the night, PSG looked in control of both the match and the tie.

Monaco, however, refused to fade completely.

Deep into stoppage time, Jordan Teze collected a loose ball in the area and fired into the bottom corner to make it 2-2.

The late equaliser added drama but did not alter the outcome.

PSG’s aggregate lead remained intact, ensuring their qualification for the knockout stages for a 14th consecutive season.

The performance showed Monaco’s resilience, particularly before the red card shifted the balance.

It was a professional if imperfect evening for PSG, as they managed the key moments required to progress.

The holders now await their next opponents in the last 16, with the ambition of defending their European crown still firmly alive.

Manchester United were briefly linked with a move for Victor Osimhen in the past, but the transfer never materialised. The Red Devils were looking to address their No. 9 position under former manager Erik ten Hag when the Nigerian was running riot at Napoli.

Osimhen spent parts of his career at Wolfsburg and Lille, but it was at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium that he became a household name. The Nigerian scored 31 goals in 39 games across competitions in the 2022/23 campaign, helping the Partenopei lift the Serie A title.

United were in the market for a new striker in the summer of 2023 and Osimhen was identified as an option. However, the Red Devils opted against a move for the 27 year old and signed Rasmus Hojlund instead from Atalanta.

Former United striker coach Benni McCarthy, who spent two years at Old Trafford from the summer of 2022, has now shed light on the club’s decision to snub the Nigerian.

AFCON concerns

Speaking to Newsday on the BBC World Service, McCarthy insisted that AFCON played a key role in the Premier League giants’ decision not to pursue Osimhen. He said: “If you spend £100m on a player, you don’t want to lose him for AFCON. I think he would have been very successful there. But it [AFCON] was a big stumbling block.”

“Losing him for so many important matches, the team suffers not having the main striker there. So the decision was made. Literally [a] big part was because of the AFCON and Victor Osimhen’s name got scratched off – not a player of interest because of that.”

Osimhen stayed at Napoli for another season, and joined Galatasaray initially on loan in 2024 before the move was made permanent last summer. This season, the Nigerian has scored 15 goals and set up five more in 23 appearances in all competitions.

Victor Osimhen Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Hojlund, meanwhile, failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford and was offloaded last summer on loan to Napoli, who have an option to sign him permanently at the end of this season.

Osimhen could have been a hit at Old Trafford

McCarthy insisted that Osimhen had all the qualities to be a hit at the Theatre of Dreams, adding: “He scores goals, he works exceptionally hard, and he’s a player [who is] immune to the noise.”

“Playing for Man Utd won’t have a lot of effect on him because of what the boy has gone through [in] his life. Where he comes from, he’s seen way worse than this. Him not scoring for five games in a row won’t affect him. He’ll just keep going on because he knows what struggle is about.”

“[It] made me kind of sad as well because, my whole career, I fought to represent my country because I’m African.”

United signed Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig last summer in a bid to strengthen the position once again. The Slovenian has been in impressive form since the turn of the year, and has scored eight goals from 24 games in all competitions this season.

Final Thoughts

United have lacked a potent goalscorer like Osimhen for a while, and the Nigerian could certainly have been a superb addition to their squad. However, that ship has sailed and if recent signs are any indication, Sesko could finally be the No. 9 the Red Devils have craved.

Featured image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Batters, pitchers and catchers will be able to challenge the umpire’s calls of balls and strikes this season using the Automated Ball-Strike system, and one of the pitchers best positioned to take advantage of the new rules is none other than Los Angeles Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

As detailed by Eno Sarris, Dan Hayes and C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic, fastballs thrown high in the strike zone make up a large proportion of pitches that umpires incorrectly called balls.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dodgers Nation (@dodgersnation)

And in 2025, Yamamoto was among the league leaders in that category, tying for fourth place.

Both Yamamoto and Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants had 15 such pitches, behind the Athletics’ Luis Severino with 22, the Milwaukee Brewers’ Quinn Priester with 17 and the Tampa Bay Ray’s Zack Littell with 16.

It’s possible, of course, that these incorrectly called balls will be countered by incorrectly called strikes.

Why Do Umpires Struggle With High Fastballs?

The Athletic asked Cincinnati Reds pitcher Hunter Greene, who’s noticed that high fastballs are less likely to be called strikes.

“A lot of umpires have issues with high-velocity throwers, like they’ll move (flinch) and that will (mess) up their pitch calling,” Greene said. “It’s been like that for a long time.”

Will ABS Change How Yamamoto Plays?

Some pitchers told The Athletic they’re waiting to see if any adjustments will be necessary due to the addition of ABS, while others said they’re expecting to work the top corners of the zone more, knowing that they can remedy incorrect calls.

Yamamoto, the reigning World Series MVP, probably won’t want to change too much, as he has far more to lose than to gain.

That said, if he wants to win the Cy Young Award as the National League’s best pitcher, he might need a little extra beyond just his unconventional warmups.

A few challenges turning called balls into high strikes could be the difference between strikeouts and hits, and between stranded runners and earned runs.

What do you think? Should Yamamoto adjust at all given the addition of ABS? Let us know in the comments.

The Juventus Men’s First Team put in a brave and commendable performance on the pitch against Galatasaray to win 3-2 on the night, but it wasn't enough to secure a place in the next round of the Champions League as it was a 5-7 aggregate defeat. 

Having gone down to ten players at the start of the second half, the Bianconeri still managed to take the game into extra time. However, two goals in extra time for the Turkish side saw the match end 3-2, bringing the Bianconeri's European adventure to an end.

THE MATCH REPORT

At the Allianz Stadium, Juventus approached the match against Galatasaray with bravery, pace and great attacking intent, taking control of the game from the very first minutes. The Bianconeri got off to a flying start, as Kenan Yildiz sent a precise cross into the box, where Federico Gatti rose at just the right moment, but the header went just wide. In the 10th minute, another cross, this time from the right, created danger. Chico Conceicao sent in an inviting ball which Teun Koopmeiners pounced on but failed to find the target. The Bianconeri's pressure did not let up as the minutes passed. In the 22nd minute, Manuel Locatelli tried to surprise the Gala defence with a shot from distance, but the visiting goalkeeper deflected it for a corner. From the resulting corner, Conceicao attempted a left-footed curler towards the far post, but it went just wide. 

On the half-hour mark, Yildiz took matters into his own hands inside the box, skipped past a man and shot towards the near post, and the deflection almost fooled Ugurcan Cakir, who managed to stretch out and deny Luciano Spalletti's side the lead. However, a goal was clearly on the way and it arrived in the 37th minute. Khephren Thuram was brought down in the penalty area and the referee pointed to the spot: Locatelli stepped up and coolly beat the visiting goalkeeper to make it 1-0, sending the Allianz Stadium into raptures. It was a deserved half-time lead for Juventus.

The second half began with a shock as Lloyd Kelly was sent off, forcing Juventus to play the entire second half with ten players. However, the momentum of the match remained unchanged as Juventus continued to dominate. In the 55th minute, Yildiz once again set the Allianz Stadium alight with a sensational slalom run: he accelerated, skipped past several opponents and burst into the penalty area, but his shot was deflected wide at the last moment. Eight minutes later, Locatelli delivered a precise free kick for Gatti's header, but it went just over the bar.

The second goal came in the 70th minute and was a deserved reward for Juventus' pressure: Pierre Kalulu's shot-cross crossed the box, and Gatti pounced again at the far post to make it 2-0 with great determination. Juventus continued to push forward. In the 77th minute, Thuram slipped into the box, taking advantage of a favourable bounce, and tried a lob, but the ball went over the bar. Two minutes later, Yildiz met Jeremie Boga's cross with a diving header and hit the post, just missing out on a third goal. In the 82nd minute, Juventus scored their third goal, as Koopmeiners cleverly flicked the ball on to Weston McKennie, who, from two yards out, slotted home to make it 3-0, a goal that brought the tie back to level terms on aggregate.. After ninety minutes of high intensity and entertainment, the match went into extra time.

The first half of extra time began with a huge chance for Edon Zhegrova, who, after receiving a pass from McKennie, who in turn had been set up by Boga, had the opportunity to make it 4-0 with his left, but he failed to find the post to Cakir's right. Just as the first quarter of an hour seemed to be coming to an end, Galatasaray scored through Victor Osimhen. Zhegrova came close to scoring again at the start of the second half of extra time, but his left-footed shot was saved by Cakir and fell to Filip Kostic, who volleyed over the bar. With one minute to go, Galatasaray scored again, this time through Baris Yilmaz. That was the end of a great performance by Juventus, but it was not enough to keep them in Europe.

Gallery | Playoff UCL | Juventus-Galatasaray

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

Finding value in the MLB Rookie of the Year market is a tricky game. 

Teams are incentivized to start their best rookies on the Opening Day roster (bonus draft pick if that player wins the award after spending the whole season in MLB), but that hasn't had a 100% success rate.

The most highly-touted rookies, such as Trey Yesavage and Konnor Griffin, have seen their price tags shorten, and they aren't as appealing.

I'm looking further down the MLB odds board for my AL and NL Rookie of the Year predictions as spring training continues.

Odds to win 2026 AL Rookie of the Year

Player
Trey Yesavage	+370
Munetaka Murakami	+600
Kazuma Okamoto	+600
Carter Jensen	+600
Tatsuya Imai	+850
Kevin McGonigle	+900
Samuel Basallo	+1000
Dylan Beavers	+1300
Connelly Early	+1400
Chase DeLauter	+2000
Colt Emerson	+2200
Payton Tolle	+2200
Travis Bazzana	+2200
Walker Jenkins	+2500
Carson Williams	+4500
Spencer Jones	+5000
Brice Matthews	+5000

Odds from DraftKings, one of our best betting apps. Sign up with our DraftKings promo code, or get one of our other sportsbook promos.

Odds as of 2-25. 

Odds to win 2026 NL Rookie of the Year

Player
Konnor Griffin	+280
JJ Wetherholt	+425
Nolan McLean	+500
Sal Stewart	+1100
Moises Ballesteros	+1300
Bubba Chandler	+1400
Justin Crawford	+1600
Bryce Eldridge	+1800
Logan Henderson	+2000
Owen Caissie	+2000
Carson Benge	+2200
Rhett Lowder	+2500
Jonah Tong	+3000
Andrew Painter	+3000
Quinn Mathews	+3500
Joe Mack	+3500
Jhostnyxon Garcia	+4000
Charlie Condon	+4500
Robby Snelling	+4500
Thomas White	+5000
Aidan Miller	+5000

Odds as of 2-25.

MLB Rookie of the Year futures bets

Projecting Rookie of the Year is the most daunting of the MLB awards. And for that reason, I tend to shy away from it during preseason except for some speculative long-shot wagers. When Paul Skenes won in 2024, I waited until after his first start. His odds got longer because he only went four innings, and perhaps some doubt emerged. He put that to rest pretty quickly.

Obviously, there's risk here, too. If Skenes shoved in his first start, then I would never have gotten that value boost. It's why I'm holding off on pulling the trigger on Konnor Griffin. He smoked two home runs in a spring game this week, which may explain why he's now the betting favorite in the NL, but there is still some risk that he gets sent to the minors to start the season. I would rather risk it and grab him at better odds or not bet him at all.

Your inclination may be to target players who are locks or almost locks to make their team's Opening Day roster. But sportsbooks aren't offering great numbers there. For as good as Trey Yesavage was in the postseason, I don't want to bet on him at +370 after he pitched more innings than he ever had before. So, for now, I try to make educated long-shot dart throws.

Bet	Odds	Bet date	Units
Bubba Chandler	+1400	February 25	0.25
Chase DeLauter	+2000	February 25	0.25

Bubba Chandler wasn't as highly touted as Skenes, but he wasn't super far off, either. He posted a 1.83 ERA over his first 39 1/3 innings at Triple-A in 2024. Those numbers took a bit of a dive last season, but his first taste of MLB hitting went pretty well. The 4.02 ERA wasn't amazing, but he had a low walk rate, didn't surrender home runs, and had a 2.66 FIP that suggests at least some positive regression.

With Griffin taking all the headlines at Pittsburgh Pirates camp, it's perhaps easy to forget that Chandler likely has a rotation spot on Opening Day unless things go all the way sideways this spring. His ace upside is enough to take a flier here.

Chase DeLauter is currently projected to open the season in the Cleveland Guardians outfield. Injuries have slowed his progression a bit, but he is a dangerous hitter, which is exactly what Cleveland needs. He doesn't strike out (15.8% K-rate in 42 minor-league games last year) and has major home run potential from the left side.

Players I'm keeping an eye on throughout spring training: Carson Benge (Mets), Andrew Painter (Phillies), Joe Mack (Marlins), Robby Snelling (Marlins).

Benge and Painter could crack their respective Opening Day rosters, which makes their current prices pretty appealing. Painter isn't far removed from Tommy John surgery, though, and the Phillies may take it slowly with him, meaning we could get a better number if we wait. 

Past Rookie of the Year winners

Previous AL RoY winners

Although all players have an equal chance of winning the AL Rookie of the Year Award, the honor has been claimed disproportionately by outfielders since its inception in 1949. Outfielders have 24 victories compared to 17 for pitchers and 17 for shortstops. Catchers are bringing up the rear with just two ROY victories over the past 73 years.

Year	Player
2025	Nick Kurtz (1B)
2024	Luis Gil (SP)
2023	Gunnar Henderson (3B/SS)
2022	Julio Rodriguez (OF)
2021	Randy Arozarena (OF)
2020	Kyle Lewis (OF)
2019	Yordan Alvarez (OF)
2018	Shohei Ohtani (P/OF)
2017	Aaron Judge (OF)
2016	Michael Fulmer (SP)
2015	Carlos Correa (SS)
2014	Jose Abreau (1B)
2013	Wil Myers (OF)

Popular MLB futures markets

• MLB World Series odds
• MLB MVP odds
• MLB Cy Young odds
• MLB playoff odds
• MLB HR title odds

Previous NL RoY winners

No franchise has won more Rookie of the Year awards than the Dodgers. "The Blue Crew" have claimed 18 RoY trophies dating back to the club's early days in Brooklyn.

However, unlike the AL — where the West has been the recent home of the top rookies — the NL East has housed six of the last 13 RoYs, with a mix of outfielders, infielders, starting pitchers, a catcher, and even a reliever.

Year	Player (Team)
2025	Drake Baldwin (C)
2024	Paul Skenes (SP)
2023	Corbin Carroll (OF)
2022	Michael Harris (OF)
2021	Jonathan India (2B)
2020	Devin Williams (RP)
2019	Pete Alonso (1B)
2018	Ronald Acuna Jr. (OF)
2017	Cody Bellinger (1B/OF)
2016	Cory Seager (SS)
2015	Kris Bryant (3B)
2014	Jacob deGrom (SP)
2013	Jose Fernandez (SP)

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

When last year's Champions League finalists Inter Milan were knocked out by Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday, it seemed as if Italian football was on the brink of making unwanted history.

With Atalanta trailing by two goals and Juventus three down after their first-leg ties, there was a real possibility of a Champions League last 16 without any Italian clubs for the first time since 1987-88, when the competition was still the European Cup.

But, while Juventus ultimately came up short despite an impressive fightback against Galatasaray, Atalanta have become the somewhat unlikely saviours of Italian football in the Champions League.

Trailing 2-0 to Borussia Dortmund from the first leg of their knockout phase play-off tie, they scored three goals in 57 minutes - before converting a dramatic last-second penalty after Karim Adeyemi's goal had looked to have forced extra time.

"Everyone had written us off," said Atalanta defender Davide Zappacosta.

"This match showed once again how strong this group is - we always believe and we never give up."

Why Atalanta's progress is important for Italian football

Since the reintroduction of the last-16 knockout round to Europe's showpiece competition in 2003-04, there has always been at least one Italian representative.

Not since 1987-88, when Napoli went out in the first round of the European Cup to Real Madrid, has Serie A had no teams in the last 16 of the competition - or first knockout round when it took other formats.

After Inter's exit on Tuesday, many Italian football experts were labelling it a disaster for the sport in their country.

"It is a piece of history," said journalist Vincenzo Credendino. "Speaking about Italy and Inter, this is one of the worst pieces."

Another Italian football journalist, Daniele Verri, said all three sides failing to make the knockouts would have been a "complete debacle, a disaster for our clubs".

Atalanta's progress - and the manner in which they battled through - at least provides hope, although it doesn't get easier for them in the last 16, with either Arsenal or Bayern Munich awaiting.

But against Dortmund, they showed the kind of self-belief that will stand them in good stead against either the Premier League or Bundesliga leaders.

"Now Atalanta are the darlings of Italian football," former West Brom and Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies said on BBC Radio 5 Live.

European football expert James Horncastle added: "They're sort of Serie A's Bodo/Glimt in many respects.

"They were a yo-yo club until about eight years ago and we've not only seen them win a European trophy and reach three Coppa Italia finals but really establish themselves in the Champions League."

Football journalist Nicky Bandini described Atalanta's comeback win as "significant" for Italian football, adding: "I think there would be more of a feelgood factor that carries over for a team like Atalanta than there would be for Juventus or for Inter because they haven't been traditionally one of the big teams of Italian football."

'A dream come true' - how Atalanta defied the odds

While Inter and Juventus have a rich and successful history in Europe's premier club competition - they have won five European Cups/Champions League titles between them - Atalanta are relative minnows by comparison.

They first played in the competition in 2019 and have reached the last 16 twice before, with their best run being to the quarter-finals on their debut.

They did win the Europa League in 2024 but in their past two Champions League appearances, have failed to make the knockouts.

The Italians had never before overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit, underlining the difficulty of the task they faced against Dortmund.

But the showed great spirit and desire, even after the disappointment of Adeyemi's goal leveling up the tie after Atalanta had worked so hard to go from 2-0 down to 3-2 up on aggregate.

"It's an unforgettable night, a dream come true," Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino said.

"We put everything into this performance: heart, soul, spirit and courage. We played an Atalanta-style match, and that's why we're so happy with what we achieved."

Atalanta captain Marten de Roon added: "We knew we had to play the perfect match and we did.

"We suffered when we had to, attacked when we had to, and in the end the result is deserved."

• Follow your club with BBC Sport
• Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast
• Get football news sent straight to your phone

It has not been the best of times for The Vision over the last several months. Though the group added Logan Paul and Austin Theory to the fold, they also saw Seth Rollins get booted from the group after going down with injury, followed by Bron Breakker being sidelined himself a few months later with a serious hernia. The injury bug caught up with the group again this week too, as Bronson Reed suffered a torn bicep during an Elimination Chamber qualifying match, putting him on the shelf as well.

Unfortunately, it appears it's also going to force Reed to go under the knife. PWInsider reports that Reed was immediately sent to Birmingham, Alabama following "Raw" this week, with the idea that he would get surgery to repair his torn biceps as soon as possible. The travel was fortunately not too long for Reed, as "Raw" took place in Atlanta, Georgia, meaning the Vision member only needed to drive a couple of hours for his evaluation.

It's unclear whether Reed has had the surgery by now, or if he was merely evaluated upon arriving in Birmingham, with the surgery set to occur later. Regardless, Reed will still have to miss significant time. No date has been set for when Reed can return to the ring, though a biceps injury typically takes between 3 to 9 months to heal, depending on the severity of the tear.

The injury forced WWE to make changes on the fly, as Reed was originally scheduled to win his Elimination Chamber qualifying match against Jey Uso and Original El Grande Americano, thus putting him in the Men's Chamber match this weekend. In addition, Reed was also penciled in for a match at WrestleMania 42 in April, though it's unclear who he would've been wrestling.

Read more: WWE Botches That Left Wrestlers Seriously Injured

Don't miss any of the major wrestling headlines. Sign up to our free newsletter for the biggest stories, sent straight to your inbox. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

As we continue on with spring training, it’s time for a little night baseball. Tonight, the Yankees will welcome the Nationals into Steinbrenner Field, which will feature our first look at one of the newest members of the Bronx Bombers.

Tonight, Ryan Weathers will take the mound for his first appearance as a Yankees. The team acquired him in a trade from the Marlins over the offseason, and he seems mostly slated to be a depth arm, who could appear as a starter or out of the bullpen (more likely the former than the latter, at least to begin 2026). However at 25 years old, he’s still young enough that there’s hope he could develop into something intriguing.

After loading up yesterday’s lineup, this one has fewer expected regulars. Amed Rosario, Jasson Domínguez, and Ben Rice make up the top third of the order, and even the middle one of those three has some questions about his Opening Day roster status. Besides that, we will get a look at prospect George Lombard Jr. tonight.

CJ Abrams and Dylan Crews are the big names in the Nats’ lineup tonight, while Andrew Alvarez will take the mound for them.

We hope that you’ll come join us in the game thread for tonight’s matchup, and here’s everything you need to know on how to catch the action.

How to watch

Location: George M. Steinbrenner Field — Tampa, FL

First pitch: 6:35 pm ET

TV broadcast: YES Network

Radio broadcast: none

Online stream: Gotham Sports App, MLB.tv, Nationals.tv

Manuel Locatelli admits he ‘feels like crying’ after Juventus capitulated to Galatasaray in extra time. ‘We put our heart and soul into this game, this is the team we must always be.’

This was always going to be practically impossible to turn around the 5-2 first leg defeat in Istanbul, even more so after Lloyd Kelly was sent off in the 48^th minute with Juve 1-0 up on the night from a Locatelli penalty.

Nonetheless, they forced extra time with Federico Gatti and Weston McKennie goals, had a big chance to win it with Edon Zhegrova, then ultimately the extra man was felt with two late Victor Osimhen and Baris Alper Yilmaz strikes.

Locatelli so proud of Juventus effort

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Manuel Locatelli (2nd R) of Juventus FC takes a penalty kick to score his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

Galatasaray enter the Champions League Round of 16, winning 7-5 on aggregate, but the Allianz Juventus Stadium crowd applauded their team’s truly heroic efforts down to 10 men for over an hour.

“I honestly feel like crying, we genuinely believed,” Locatelli told Amazon Prime Video Italia.

“We put our heart and soul into this game, even more than that. An incident made it all more complicated in the first leg, but today I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart.

“The atmosphere in the stadium was incredible, these are nights that stay with you. We soaked up the energy from them that we needed.”

Juve had been criticised for lacking a fighting spirit this season, but that could not be an accusation levelled at them this evening, coming so close to an incredible turnaround.

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus FC celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

“We gave our heart and soul. I always ask the players to do that, and tonight we really did, so this is what we’ve got to carry with us going forward,” added Locatelli.

“This is the Juventus we wanted to see, and the one we must always be. We need to always try to play at this level. We are on the right track and mustn’t lose that believe.”

TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Khephren Thuram of Juventus FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)

There were some big chances that went begging tonight, and Khephren Thuram was in tears on the touchline after McKennie equalised on aggregate.

“I think we can only compliment the players tonight for their efforts, mistakes can happen. Now we’ve got another important game coming up against Roma and must focus on that.”

Teams in Champions League knockouts: Final standings, list of clubs qualified for knockout rounds in 2025/26 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The end of January was crunch time in the UEFA Champions League as teams battled it out for a place in the knockouts.

Heading into the final matchday of the league phase, only a handful of sides had been eliminated from contention for at least a spot in the knockout-stage playoff round.

With all games kicking off at the same time on matchday eight, it promised to be a frenetic ending to the first phase of the 2025/26 tournament. And, boy, it did not disappoint.

With the knockout playoffs having concluded on Wednesday, we now know which teams will compete from the Round of 16 onwards.

Here is a run-down of how things look in terms of teams qualifying for knockout-stage proper.

MORE: Champions League top scorers 2025/26 | All-time leading UCL goal-scorers

Teams in Champions League knockouts

The top eight from the league phase qualified automatically for the Round of 16, and they are joined by the eight winners of the knockout playoffs.

It's an extremely coveted position as those sides not only avoid the peril of a playoff matchup but are also seeded in the Round of 16 draw, so they will be partnered with an opponent that finished lower in the table.

Seeded teams in bold

Champions League league phase 2025/26 final standings

Final standings for Champions League league phase

Qualified for Round of 16:

1. Arsenal
2. Bayern Munich
3. Liverpool
4. Tottenham Hotspur
5. Barcelona
6. Chelsea
7. Sporting CP
8. Manchester City

Entered Round of 16 playoffs:

9. Real Madrid
10. Inter Milan
11. Paris Saint-Germain
12. Newcastle United
13. Juventus
14. Atletico Madrid
15. Atalanta
16. Bayer Leverkusen
17. Borussia Dortmund
18. Olympiacos
19. Club Brugge
20. Galatasaray
21. Monaco
22. Qarabag
23. Bodo/Glimt
24. Benfica

Eliminated from Champions League:

25. Marseille
26. Pafos
27. Union Saint-Gilloise
28. PSV
29. Athletic Club
30. Napoli
31. Copenhagen
32. Ajax
33. Eintracht Frankfurt
34. Slavia Prague
35. Villarreal
36. Kairat

Teams in Champions League Round of 16 and knockout playoffs

After matchday seven in 2025/26, Arsenal and Bayern Munich were the only teams to have mathematically guaranteed a bye to the Round of 16. The remaining six saw their spots confirmed on January 28.

Teams qualified for Champions League Round of 16

Teams qualified for Champions League knockout playoffs

Below the top eight Round of 16 byes, the next 16 clubs qualify to the knockout-round playoffs.

Positions 9-16 were seeded in the playoff-round draw and had the preferred second-leg home match, while positions 17-24 were unseeded.

Teams in Champions League knockout playoffs 2025/26

Teams eliminated from Champions League 2025/26

On matchweek seven, only four teams had their interest in the competition completely ended, meaning 30 of the 36 competitors still had something at stake on January 28.

Teams eliminated from the Champions League league phase

When are the Champions League knockout playoffs 2025/26?

The first legs of the playoff matches took place over February 17-18, 2026. The return legs were a week later over February 24-25.

When are Champions League Round of 16 games 2025/26?

The Round of 16 games will be played over March 10-11, and March 17-18. 

Tom Orsborn: Darko Rajakovic on what he learned about Victor Wembanyama coaching him at All-Star Game: “Super-focused kid… He’s really on a mission to be one of the best players.”

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Darko Rajakovic on Victor Wembanyama: 'He's really on a mission to be one of the best players'

Jon Krawczynski: The plan is for Jules Bernard to remain in Iowa right now.

Twitter

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The plan is for Jules Bernard to remain in Iowa right …

Lamar's manager, Gina Rodriguez, told us he wanted to shake his marijuana use -- out of concern it could lead to doing hard drugs again.

TMZ.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Lamar's manager, Gina Rodriguez, told us he wanted to …

The stars of AEW are currently in Denver, Colorado for this week's episode of "AEW Dynamite" and the taping of this weekend's episode of "AEW Collision," but one man who won't be involved in those shows is "The Mad King" Eddie Kingston.

Pro Wrestling Junkies took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to announce that Kingston, who was supposed to be doing a meet-and-greet with fans at an event this weekend has had to pull out due to medical reasons. Kingston was also supposed to host a seminar alongside his tag team partner Ortiz, but that has been temporarily postponed as Ortiz has reportedly agreed to go ahead with seminar free of charge if enough people want it to happen. 

Mike Johnson of PWInsider has since confirmed that the reason for Kingston pulling out of all scheduled events for this week is due to the former ROH World Champion suffering from severe migraine headaches, and will be focusing on his health for the immediate future. Pro Wrestling Junkie have offered a full refund to those who had bought tickets for the meet-and-greet. 

Kingston has been back in AEW for just over five months at the time of writing after missing 16 months of action due to a serious knee injury. He returned on the Zero Hour portion of the 2025 AEW All Out pay-per-view where he beat Big Bill, before forming a short-lived team with Hook. However, when Hook re-joined The Opps at Full Gear 2025, Kingston ended up challenging Samoa Joe for the AEW World Championship on the Winter is Coming edition of "Dynamite" in a losing effort. Since then, Kingston has reunited with Ortiz, who had also missed over a year of action due to injury, and feuded with the Grizzled Young Veterans. That rivalry came to a violent end on the February 7 episode of "Collision" where Kingston, Ortiz, and The Rascalz defeated the Grizzled Young Veterans, Bryan Keith, and the aforementioned Big Bill in a Parking Lot Fight.

Read more: AEW Stars: Meet Their Spouses & Partners

Don't miss any of the major wrestling headlines. Sign up to our free newsletter for the biggest stories, sent straight to your inbox. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

The Atlanta NWSL franchise doesn’t start league play until 2028, but that hasn’t stopped them from making history.

According to Sportico’s Kurt Badenhausen, Aflac will be the front-of-jersey sponsor on a seven-year deal worth $28 million. Atlanta NWSL have shattered a women’s sports record.

The current record-holders were the Portland Thorns with Ring that set a new record for average annual value, with Bay FC and Sutter Health follow just behind at $2.5 million per year.

The WNBA’s record is believed to belong to the Golden State Valkyries and Chase, according to Sportico.

On November 12, 2025 the NWSL awarded its 17th franchise to Atlanta and owner Arthur Blank, alongside AMBSE. The club will begin play in 2028 with home matches being played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Women’s sports investment continues to pour in and skyrocket. What record will be set next?

Superstar receiver A.J. Brown and Mike Vrabel spent three years together with the Tennessee Titans. They won many games together. They came to the doorstep of the Super Bowl together. To simplify things, they went through a lot together. And when Brown was unceremoniously traded from Tennessee, the safest assumption was that Vrabel had nothing to do with it. Vrabel's own unceremonious firing by the Titans said it all.

Flash forward to the present, and a seemingly disgruntled Brown might have his days numbered as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. That's at least according to curious comments from Philadelphia head coach Nick Sirianni at the NFL Scouting Combine, who, per ESPN, was noncommittal about Brown's future with the Eagles. Given how unhappy Brown was with the Eagles' offensive operation in 2025, it's probably foolish to guarantee he will still be wearing Eagles green come September.

In other words, now is the time to spark up all of your Brown trade ideas, dearest readers. If not now, when?

Don't look now, but Vrabel's reigning AFC champion New England Patriots need a top playmaker. The coach's combine comments about his continued relationship with Brown will likely only serve as kindling for any trade rumors.

Mike Vrabel was asked about his existing relationship with A.J. Brown, who the Patriots coach drafted when he was with the Titans. The #Eagles WR recently spoke about his bond with Vrabel on the Julian Edelman-Rob Gronkowski podcast.

The Patriots, for reasons other than the… pic.twitter.com/tVgIcelwK5

— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) February 25, 2026

Honestly? Vrabel's thoughts about Brown and his habit of checking in with him now and then seem pretty harmless to me. It's very common for coaches and players who like each other to stay in touch even when they're no longer on the same team. It happens all the time. None of what Vrabel said here strikes me as a development that suggests the Patriots are about to acquire Brown from the Eagles. At least, not at face value.

Even still, hearing how Vrabel continues to be in Brown's corner is interesting from a trade perspective. If the Patriots didn't need a No. 1 receiver, it'd probably be safe to overlook Vrabel's comments entirely. But since they do, anything that he says about Brown will (understandably) be somewhat overanalyzed for the foreseeable future.

Until we get meaningful clarity about Brown's ongoing dynamic with Eagles leadership, that won't change.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: A.J. Brown's Eagles trade rumors fed by Mike Vrabel's curious comments

Why Patriots Should Steer Clear Of Signing This Three-Time Pro Bowl Guard originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New England Patriots might be considering shifting players along the offensive line, and one possibility is moving Jared Wilson from left guard to center.

If New England decides to move Wilson from left guard, the Patriots might consider filling the left guard position with a potential free agent.

However, the Patriots should not look to the soon-to-be free agent guard Wyatt Teller.

Teller just wrapped up his eighth season in the NFL, his seventh with the Cleveland Browns, during which he played in 13 games. Once regarded as one of the top guards in the league, Teller made three Pro Bowl appearances from 2021 to 2023. It seems that his performance is starting to decline.

The 31-year-old guard experienced a setback this past season, with Pro Football Focus ranking him 40th out of 81 guards and giving him the 65th-best pass blocking grade at his position.

New England's offensive line struggled, allowing 48 sacks during the regular season, and one area of concern was left tackle Will Campbell's performance in the postseason.

The Patriots need to find a left guard who can excel in pass protection and help Campbell begin to develop his game. While Teller is a fantastic locker room presence, he may not have the same level of play he once did.

More NFL: Patriots Linked To NFL's Highest-Ranked WR Trade Prospect In Shocking Report

• Norwich City have won 2-0 against Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship at Carrow Road
• Substitute Mathias Kvistgaarden and Paris Maghoma scored City's goals in the first half
• Kvistgaarden replaced Mohamed Toure who limped off after seven minutes
• Former Norwich striker Iwan Roberts and BBC Norfolk's Rob Butler took your calls and thoughts on the game
• Listen to Canary Call on BBC Sounds here
• Subscribe to the BBC Sounds Norwich City page here

Watch: Canary Call after Norwich City v Sheffield Wednesday

Stoke manager Mark Robins spoke to BBC Radio Stoke after their 2-1 Championship win over Oxford United.

"I'm pleased with some of the performance and the result, immensely.

"I am pleased with the way the supporters stuck by us and helped us get that result over the line.

"When there is an opponent sat in front of you with a low block or a mid block then it is really difficult to break down. We knew we had to play in a certain way, and I thought we got the balance almost spot on.

"The only disappointment for me was the defending on the set-play and we allowed them back into the game when we should have been one, two or three up by that stage.

"We were brave, took the ball in good positions, and to all intents and purposes did the right thing a lot of the time. I'm still looking for more. It isn't quite there yet, but it was enough to win the game. It was a really good three points. It is a step forward for us."

• Listen to Stoke City content on BBC Sounds

Charles Oliveira is familiar with both UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and interim champ Justin Gaethje.

Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) is expected to unify the title against Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC), who captured the interim belt by defeating Paddy Pimblett last month at UFC 324.

Oliveira (36-11 MMA, 24-11 UFC) was knocked out by Topuria in their vacant lightweight title fight at UFC 317 last June. During his title reign, Oliveira choked out Gaethje at UFC 274 but was stripped of his belt prior after missing weight.

"A fight's a fight, but my money will be on Topuria to win," Oliveira told MMA Junkie through an interpreter.

Oliveira will challenge Max Holloway (27-8 MMA, 23-8 UFC) for the BMF title when they rematch in the UFC 326 headliner March 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (Paramount+). A win could set him up for another shot at Topuria, but Oliveira is more concerned with re-gaining the belt.

"The reality is I'm not looking for rematches, I'm not looking for revenge on the guys who have fought me," Oliveira said. "I'm just looking to fight, and I want to win, and I want to be the champion. So, whoever has the belt, that's who I'm fighting. It's not specifically looking for that rematch with him."

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Charles Oliveira makes Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje prediction

Birmingham City manager Chris Davies said his team failed to compete with Millwall in their 3-0 defeat at The Den.

Davies told BBC Radio WM: "I said to the players that we have to hold our hands up and say we didn't deserve anything from that match. We were well below the competitiveness required when you come to a place like this, firstly to keep clean sheets and then to have a go yourself in the game.

"This is a timely reminder of how challenging this league is, and what you have to do in every single game, and we weren't good enough.

"Their tails were up but it wasn't [a case of] carving us open, a lot of it was setpieces. The first [goal] was off a long throw was a great finish to be fair, an outstanding moment of quality.

"The second was a shot off a post and a rebound. These are really sloppy mistakes from our point of view and the third was a wide free kick, so it wasn't a game where we were having massive problems generally, but when it comes to the basics, the bouncing balls and ugly side to the game, we were short and it cost us."

Now there are 16 teams left in the fight for the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026.

The last four qualifiers from the round of 16 playoffs were decided this Wednesday (25).

A day that began with Atalanta advancing in epic fashion. And ended with more insanity.

The round of 16 matches will be determined next Friday (27) starting at 8 AM (Brasília time).

But there are already predictions, as UEFA determined the possible matchups since the playoff draw.

It is possible, for example, to have Barcelona against the current champion PSG.

We could also have the already "traditional" Manchester City vs. Real Madrid again.

The teams that qualified directly for the round of 16 and were just waiting will be the hosts in the round of 16.

These are Arsenal (1st), Bayern (2nd), Liverpool (3rd), Tottenham (4th), Barcelona (5th), Chelsea (6th), Sporting (7th), and Manchester City (8th).

The quarterfinal and semifinal matchups are also already known. Check them out below:

Division of qualifiers by country 🌍

English football continues with 100% of the teams that started the competition in the league phase. 

Exactly 1/3 of the qualifiers compete in the Premier League.

Five secured their spots in the league phase via the English Championship and Tottenham thanks to the Europa League title.

Bundesliga and La Liga also show strength with three representatives each. 

See the division below: 

🏴 England - Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Newcastle

🇪🇸 Spain - Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, and Real Madrid

🇩🇪 Germany - Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen 

🇳🇴 Norway - Bodø/Glimt

🇫🇷 France - PSG

🇵🇹 Portugal - Sporting

🇹🇷 Turkey - Galatasaray

🇮🇹 Italy - Atalanta 

📅 Dates for the next phases:

Round of 16: March 10/11 and 17/18

Quarterfinals: April 7/8 and 14/15

Semifinals: April 28/29 and May 5/6

Final: May 30, 2026, at Puskás Aréna, in Budapest

Featured photo: Reproduction/UEFA

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Clemsonbasketball continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, and another highly regarded prospect in the 2028 class is set to get his first extended look at Tigertown.

Four-star forward Braxton Bogard will take an unofficial visit to Clemson on March 7, according to multiple recruiting outlets. Bogard is currently ranked as a top 40 national prospect in the 2028 class and is considered one of the premier forwards in his cycle.

Bogard stands 6-foot-8, 210 pounds, and plays at Archbishop Spalding High School in Severn, Maryland, a program that has produced several high-level Division I talents. His blend of size, skill, and versatility has made him a fast riser nationally, and Clemson is now firmly on his radar early in the process.

View this post on Instagram

Bogard’s game is built around offensive polish and positional flexibility. Evaluators describe him as a modern forward who can score in multiple ways, featuring a smooth turnaround jumper from the post, soft touch around the rim, and enough perimeter skill to play facing the basket. He shows bounce finishing above the rim and the body control to convert through contact.

That versatility was on display when Bogard earned co-MVP honors at the Pangos All-East Frosh/Soph Camp, an event that consistently features many of the nation’s top underclassmen. His performance there helped solidify his status as one of the most intriguing long-term prospects in the country.

ESPN no longer has Clemson basketball as a lock for NCAA Tournament https://t.co/AqSPUWOSSOpic.twitter.com/c9ZTqbGLbp

— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) February 25, 2026

While Clemson’s 2028 board is still taking shape, Bogard’s early interest suggests mutual curiosity between both sides. The visit gives the Tigers a chance to showcase their player development infrastructure, NBA pathways, and vision for how Bogard could fit into the program long term.

Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson to host four star 2028 forward Braxton Bogard

UConn men's basketball will deliver a high-stakes send-off to its Hartford fanbase Wednesday evening, needing a win over No. 15 St. John's to remain in contention for an outright Big East title and avenge a heartbreaker at Madison Square Garden. 

The Huskies bounced back after a stunning mid-week stumble to Creighton in the conference title race, breezing past Villanova over the weekend thanks to a dominant second half. Meanwhile, St. John's will look to defend the nation's second-longest active winning streak at PeoplesBank Arena, last losing to Providence Jan. 3. 

Here's everything you need to know ahead of Wednesday's titanic Big East clash:

How to watch

Wednesday's matchup will air on Peacock and NBC Sports Network, with tip-off set for 7 p.m. ET. It will also be available on the radio via the UConn Sports Network, Fox Sports Radio 97.9 and a series of local affiliates. 

Matchup preview

St. John's exploited the most glaring weakpoint in UConn's highly efficient defense - the Huskies' .41 free throw to field goal ratio is among the worst in the country - when the two teams met earlier this month, attempting 31 foul shots in an 81-72 win. Star Red Storm center Zuby Ejiofor accounted for 10 of these attempts in a 21-point, near triple-double performance and has been one of the nation's most proficient players in drawing fouls, requiring a concerted effort from UConn's frontcourt to keep him off the glass and the charity stripe. 

On the other end, UConn will look to rediscover its typically whizzing ball movement against a stingy St. John's defense, as the Huskies registered just 14 assists on 29 made field goals and a negative assist-to-turnover ratio for the first and only time this season when the two teams met in New York City. Silas Demary Jr. accounted for nine of UConn's turnovers in a mercurial performance for the Huskies point guard, finishing with 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists. 

UConn looking to activate bench

Dan Hurley received a breakthrough performance from his reserves against a high-caliber Big East opponent in Villanova, as UConn outscored the Wildcats 22-8 in bench points over the weekend. The Huskies coach only afforded his bench players 28 total minutes during UConn's first meeting with the Johnnies, and will likely hope to provide more of a respite this time around against St. John's up-tempo, high-pressure defense. 

 "I think I've mismanaged my bench probably for the past two weeks, and I've got to get those guys on the court. They're a big reason why we had some of the best non-conference wins of anyone this year."

This article originally published at Live updates: No. 6 UConn vs. No. 15 St. John's in Big East showdown.

Turtle Savings turns saving money into simple, addictive games. Choose challenges like 100 Envelopes, 52 Weeks, or Bingo, move money to your own bank account, and mark envelopes to see your stack grow. The app tracks progress, celebrates wins, and shows a live scoreboard so you stay motivated without handing over your cash. Join thousands of savers and crush goals faster with bite-sized daily actions.

View startup

A dramatic travel disruption has hit Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) this week as 23 flights were cancelled, leaving scores of passengers stranded and scrambling for alternate travel plans. Families en route to the island, weekend tourists returning home and business travellers alike found departure boards filled with cancellations and rebooking notices upon arrival. The human toll of the disruption was clear as frustrated flyers grappled with hotel costs, extended wait times, and frantic calls to airlines to secure seats for later departures. This disruption has rippled along the East Coast travel network, affecting connections in Boston, New York, and Providence as weather and operational issues compound pressure on regional flights.

WHAT HAPPENED — MASS CANCELLATIONS AT A SMALL ISLAND AIRPORT

According to aviation data and flight tracking services, Nantucket Memorial Airport recorded 23 cancellations and 0 delays for flights scheduled over a key travel period. While smaller regional airports typically avoid the scale of disruptions seen at major hubs, this cluster of cancellations marks one of the more significant interruptions at ACK in recent memory. Local carriers — including Cape Air and larger partners — had to scrap scheduled routes to and from Boston Logan International Airport, New York hubs, and other Northeast cities. Several factors converged to trigger this disruption, chief among them severe winter weather sweeping the northeastern United States and coastal Massachusetts. Weather systems in the region have led to widespread cancellations at other airports, and Nantucket’s position as an island airport with limited runway options and de‑icing resources made it especially vulnerable.

THE WEATHER BEHIND THE CANCELLATIONS

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm and blizzard warnings across parts of New England and the East Coast, with intense wind, snow and coastal flooding expected to persist during storm events. These conditions have forced multiple airports to reduce, delay or cancel flights as runway conditions change suddenly and visibility drops. At Nantucket Memorial Airport, the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean exposes runways and operating surfaces to strong gusts and rapidly changing precipitation. Even when larger nearby hubs like Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) manage partial operations, smaller facilities often have less redundancy in staffing and de‑icing capacity, increasing the likelihood of cancellations when weather turns severe.

PASSENGERS SHARE EXPERIENCES OF CHAOS AT ACK

Travellers caught up in the cancellation wave reported scenes of confusion and distress at the terminal, where once‑bound flyers were faced with rebooking desks and digital screens flashing “CANCELLED.” One family whose journey to visit relatives was disrupted described exhausted children, packed waiting areas, and multiple calls to airline customer service lines. A group of business flyers lamented the knock‑on effect: missing meetings, high last‑minute accommodation costs, and frustration over shifting itinerary assurances.

Many travellers echoed similar sentiments — voices tinged with frustration, fatigue, and occasional sympathy for overwhelmed airline staff doing their best to offer solutions. Airport personnel were seen providing voluntary vouchers, hotel referrals, and helping passengers join long rebooking queues as closely as possible to their original travel timeframe.

AIRLINES RESPOND, OFFER SUPPORT AND REBOOKING OPTIONS

In response to the cancellations at Nantucket Memorial, airline partners including Cape Air and connecting carriers issued statements emphasizing passenger safety and flexibility in rebooking. Airlines have activated waivers allowing travellers to change flights without penalty and have increased staffing at customer support lines to manage the surge in re‑accommodation requests.

Airport authorities reiterated that safety considerations — including runway conditions, aircraft de‑icing and forecasted winds — were critical in making cancellation decisions. While difficult for travellers, maintaining safe flight operations remained the priority for all parties involved.

ECONOMIC IMPACT ON ISLAND TOURISM AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Nantucket is a popular island destination — particularly for winter retreats and holiday travel — with many travellers relying on timely air connections. Such widespread cancellations can have a local economic impact, as delayed or stranded visitors may incur additional lodging and transport costs while island businesses face uncertainty in guest flows.

Local hospitality operators noted that while some visitors spent extra nights in Nantucket due to cancellations, others chose to leave entirely, reducing expected patronage at restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Tourism officials emphasised that while weather effects are largely unpredictable, communication between airlines, airport officials, and local businesses remains crucial for managing visitor experience and expectations.

REGIONAL RIPPLE EFFECT — IMPACT ON EAST COAST TRAVEL NETWORK

The disruptions at Nantucket Memorial didn’t occur in isolation. Airports throughout the Northeast and Mid‑Atlantic have been grappling with weather‑related flight issues, with significant cancellation numbers reported at hubs including Boston Logan, New York area airports and others. These larger network disruptions often cascade into smaller regional airports like ACK as downstream connections fail to materialise or aircraft are retasked to cover priority routes.

Travellers connecting through major airports to reach Nantucket found that even after departing on schedule from larger cities, weather conditions closer to the island forced flight cancellation within minutes of planned arrival times. Aviation analysts note that this “domino effect” is a familiar pattern during intense weather events and highlights the interconnected nature of modern air travel.

ADVICE FOR FUTURE TRAVELLERS THROUGH ACK

Travel advisories from both airline partners and federal agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) caution passengers to check flight statuses in real time and be prepared for sudden schedule changes, especially during winter months. Flyers are encouraged to arrive early at terminals, monitor conditions via airline apps, and contact customer support promptly if travel changes are announced.

Weather forecasts remain a key tool for planning, but rapid coastal weather shifts — especially in island regions like Nantucket — can outpace even the most detailed forecasts. Passengers heading to or from ACK should retain flexibility in their itineraries and consider alternate routing if continuity is critical.

HUMANISING THE LASTING IMPACT OF CANCELLED FLIGHTS

For many travellers, the disruption at Nantucket Memorial Airport was more than a footnote in aviation statistics — it became a tangible experience of uncertainty and inconvenience. Parents juggling tired children and luggage, business travellers abandoning plans for the day, and holiday makers left rearranging celebrations all shared moments of frustration amid shifting flight boards and long queues. Yet amid the chaos, strangers offered seats in crowded waiting areas, airline staff worked tirelessly to assist, and airport volunteers helped distribute refreshments and information.

By nightfall, although operations began to normalise, many whose flights were cancelled earlier remained en route with revised tickets or plans to depart the following day. The impact of the 23 cancelled flights was felt not just in airport lounges but in homes and schedules across the East Coast travel network — a stark reminder of how weather and operational constraints continue to challenge even established transport hubs in the modern era.

CruiseVoices.com, a groundbreaking AI-powered cruise planning and booking platform, has officially launched today in Carolina Beach, NC, with the mission of transforming the way travelers research, compare, and book cruise vacations worldwide. This innovative platform combines an intelligent AI concierge, a vast library of over 170 expert cruise guides, and an interactive community forum — all at no cost to users.

Revolutionizing Cruise Planning

Planning a cruise vacation often feels like navigating through a labyrinth of information, with travelers having to browse multiple cruise line websites, peruse outdated forum posts, or spend hours coordinating with travel agents. Despite the cruise industry serving over 35 million passengers annually, planning tools have remained relatively unchanged for years. CruiseVoices.com was built to tackle this very problem, offering a solution that provides travelers with a comprehensive, modern, and accessible way to plan their dream cruise holidays.

At the core of CruiseVoices.com is its AI-powered concierge. This intelligent assistant acts like a personal travel advisor, allowing travelers to easily communicate their preferences — from destination choices and cabin types to the number of people traveling and their budget. In return, the AI recommends specific cruise lines, ships, and cabins that match the user’s needs. It doesn’t stop there; the AI concierge can also assist in arranging flights to departure ports, booking hotels for pre-cruise stays, finding car rentals, recommending shore excursions, and offering travel insurance options, all in a single conversation.

A Tool Built for Travelers

Steve, Co-Founder and CTO of CruiseVoices, explained, “We wanted to build the tool we wished existed when we started planning our own cruises. Every other option out there either requires you to do all the research yourself or pay someone to do it for you. Our AI concierge does it instantly and at no cost to the traveler.”

This user-friendly approach, paired with advanced AI technology, offers a seamless and personalized cruise planning experience that is unprecedented in the industry.

Comprehensive Planning Tools for Every Traveler

CruiseVoices.com’s Trip Planner provides a comprehensive, full-screen booking experience, which allows users to explore detailed ship images, view real-time recommendations, and directly book their cruises. With information on over 150 ships from all the major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, MSC, Disney, Princess, and Virgin Voyages, the platform covers a wide range of options to suit any traveler’s preferences.

Additionally, the platform features more than 170 expert articles on cruise tips, ship reviews, port guides, and destination advice. Each article is designed to help users make informed decisions about their cruise journey, whether they are seasoned travelers or first-time cruisers.

Building a Cruise Community

Another key feature of CruiseVoices.com is its vibrant community forum, which includes over 50 dedicated sections covering various aspects of cruising. From cruise line discussions to individual ship reviews, destination guides, trip reports, and crew life insights, the forum serves as a valuable resource for travelers to share experiences, ask questions, and engage with fellow cruisers. New content is published daily, and the articles are automatically shared on the platform’s social media channels, including Facebook, X, and Pinterest, helping to keep the community connected and informed.

A Sustainable and Automated Platform

CruiseVoices.com was created by husband-and-wife duo Steve and Kim, who managed to develop the entire platform from scratch in less than three weeks, with an investment of under $500. The platform runs entirely on automated infrastructure, which means that content is published and distributed to social media channels without manual intervention. This automated system ensures that users have access to the most up-to-date information at any time.

Kim, the Co-Founder and CEO, pointed out that the cruise industry generates over $72 billion annually, with online bookings being the fastest-growing segment. She also mentioned that first-time cruisers were increasing by 30% each year and emphasized that these travelers required a modern, intelligent tool to help them navigate their options. She stated that this was precisely what they had built.

Free and Accessible for All Travelers

CruiseVoices.com is fully live and available now, offering travelers the opportunity to access all of its features for free. No account is required to interact with the AI concierge or browse the community forum, making it a convenient and hassle-free platform for cruise enthusiasts.

As the cruise industry continues to grow, CruiseVoices.com aims to be the go-to resource for anyone planning their next cruise vacation, offering personalized assistance, expert advice, and a supportive community all in one place. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this platform provides all the tools you need to plan, compare, and book your perfect cruise in minutes.

CruiseVoices.com is ready to serve travelers globally, with the hope of making cruise planning more enjoyable and accessible for all.

Conclusion

CruiseVoices.com, launched in Carolina Beach, NC, is poised to change the landscape of cruise planning. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, expert guides, and a supportive community, it provides a seamless, user-friendly experience for travelers worldwide. For those seeking to book their next cruise, this platform is a must-visit, offering convenience, personalization, and a wealth of information all in one place.

The cruise industry is starting to use Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as a more environmentally friendly option to traditional fuels. Thanks to its ability to cut down on harmful sulfur and other pollutants, LNG is being recognized as a more environmentally friendly fuel option for the cruise industry. After coming to terms with LNG’s potential, the industry brought to the forefront the concerns surrounding the operational challenges, specifically, the issue of methane slip.

Shifting Focus: Methane Slip and Refining LNG Performance

Although LNG as a fuel source for cruise ships has previously been regarded as a possibility with many uncertainties, recent developments, specifically the construction of the Icon of the Seas and all ships in MSC Cruises’ LNG fleet, have proven that LNG can be used to operationally fuel large and heavy cruise ships. It is important to note that these ships, including Euribia, World Europa, and World America, have been operational in congested itineraries and heavily trafficked cruise ports, further demonstrating that LNG is no longer an auxiliary fuel but rather a fundamental fuel in the shipping industry.

When LNG became an industry standard, developers began looking for ways to refine and improve it, particularly to alleviate concerns of something called “methane slip.” Methane slip occurs when unburned methane escapes during an LNG combustion process, and is especially concerning for the industry as methane is a powerful greenhouse gas. Cruise ship operators and engine manufacturers alike have focused on how to keep slip emissions to a minimum.

Environmental Partnerships: The Beginning of Progress

Several independent studies have verified that methane slip on LNG-powered vessels has the potential to be limited. For example, Brittany Ferries’ Salamanca’s annual methane slip is 1.57 percent, a staggering number compared to the contractual emissions shortfalls and the default regulatory frameworks. The cruise operators it continues to report slip emissions that consistently remain below the still relevant and used default values.

Advancements in emissions control have provided an increased lag time for LNG-powered cruise vessels compared to the other fossil-based options for marine fuels. The regulatory frameworks are outdated, as the operational emissions of the vessels are significantly better than anticipated in the regulatory frameworks.

Improvements in engine technology are key to making the next generation of LNG performance possible within the cruise ship sector. Wärtsilä 46TS-DF engines featuring NextDF technology, which substantially reduces methane slip, will be deployed on MSC’s World Asia. This engine will be able to achieve a methane slip value of 1.1% within a broad operational load range. This will redefine the industry’s benchmark for methane slip emissions.

Future LNG-powered cruise vessels, as well as smaller and mid-sized LNG-powered vessels will be able to incorporate this technology via the Wärtsilä 31DF and Wärtsilä 25DF engines. This allows a wider variety of vessels to achieve significant greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption improvements. Operators can extend the environmental compliance improvements to their sustainability efforts by minimizing their fleet’s environmental footprint.

Renewable Liquid Natural Gas in The Cruise Ship Industry

The Cruise Ship industry has established the use of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) as fuel in its vessels, and now the industry will look to further incorporate the use of renewable LNG fuels. Bio-LNG (Renewable Liquid Natural Gas) and Synthetic LNG (sLNG) fuels will allow the industry to further reduce its emissions and use fuels that are, in differing ways, more environmentally friendly than LNG. The first bio-LNG maritime bunkering operation was conducted in July 2025 at the Port of Barcelona, Spain. This operation has proven that renewable methane can be used in LNG systems and existing infrastructure, which will allow us to further sustain the systems that have previously been constructed and used in maritime travel. This operation also demonstrated the ability to use biological/renewable LNG systems in the ship travel system. 

Bio-LNG can also incorporate the emissions reduction goals that are set for the industry, and set it above many other alternative fuels. An external study showed that Bio-LNG can reduce emissions by as much as 80% in comparison to Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO), which dominates the industry. This also shows the ability to sustain the long-term goals for using natural gas (in the form of LNG) to power ships, as the transition to bio and synthetic LNG can be achieved without major refits to the vessels. 

With the growing availability of Bio-LNG and Synthetic LNG, the cruise ship industry will be able to reduce the use of its carbon fuels without the need to change its vessels or systems. This compatibility also supports the long-term goals for the industry’s environmental sustainability.

Changes in Regulations and What They Mean for the Industry

More recent changes in regulations pertaining to cruise lines have positively impacted the adoption of LNG for the cruise lines. The European Union now allows ship owners to use “actual” methane slip values instead of the previously required and more rigid “default” values.” This means an operator who invests in new technologies aimed at lowering methane slip may receive more credit for their investment and reduced emission costs.

For cruise operators, regulatory flexibility is a must for the future. It provides a way to refine emission estimations and may affect fuel choices and investments for many years to come (decades). The more LNG-powered vessels that come into operation (starting with the Icon and Oasis classes vessels and InTui-tion, Sphere, and World class vessels), the more LNG will become a ‘standard’ product in the cruise industry.

LNG and Sustainability in the Cruise Industry

The LNG-fueled vessels will become a common sight in the ports of the Mediterranean, and soon in ports of Cyprus, Greece, and Barcelona. This means cruise lines have begun to reduce their environmental footprint.

LNG’s increasing role in the cruise sector is linked to the adoption of breakthrough engine technologies, the use of new-age renewable LNG, and improvements to the control of methane emissions. These changes are not only focused on emissions reductions, it is the beginning of the commitment of the cruise industry to the principles of sustainable travel for future generations.

Conclusion: Sustainability in Cruise Travel with LNG

The growing use of LNG fuel in the cruise industry is a positive step in the right direction, with advancements in engine technologies and LNG becoming more sustainable. The regulation shifts to include actual operational performance have made LNG-fuelled cruise ships a viable option for the future of sustainable cruise travel. The industry’s response to the use of LNG fuel is an improvement in the fuel’s level of acceptance and sustainability. LNG has become the expectation for many cruise operators.

The continued investment and expansion of LNG fleets by cruise lines demonstrates industry compliance with regulation. Equally important, it creates the foundation for sustainable travel to be a reality, and for a more environmentally friendly and operationally efficient cruising to be available for many years to come.

China’s inbound travel sector has seen a significant boost in early 2026 with the announcement of several key developments aimed at enhancing international tourism. These changes include the expanded visa-free entry for travelers from the UK and Canada, new flight routes connecting Australia to Beijing, and the opening of luxury hotels in Chengdu. These initiatives are part of China’s broader efforts to further integrate into the global tourism economy and solidify its position as a top destination for both leisure and business travelers.

Starting February 17, 2026, ordinary passport holders from the UK and Canada are now eligible for visa-free entry into China. This policy allows travelers to stay for up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting family, or transit purposes. This visa exemption will remain in effect until December 31, 2026, and represents a significant step in China’s ongoing efforts to open its doors to international visitors.

These new travel policies, along with strategic investments in airline routes and luxury accommodations, are expected to further strengthen China’s tourism infrastructure, driving both short-term visits and long-term growth in the sector. With increasing global interest in China’s cultural, historical, and business opportunities, 2026 looks set to be a defining year for the country’s tourism and hospitality industries.

Expanded Visa-Free Entry: UK and Canada Citizens Can Now Enter China Without a Visa

Starting February 17, 2026, the Chinese government has implemented an expanded visa-free entry policy for ordinary passport holders from the UK and Canada. This move is part of China’s strategy to stimulate both tourism and business travel, further integrating the country into the global tourism economy.

Who is Eligible for the Visa-Free Policy?

Ordinary passport holders from the UK and Canada are eligible for visa-free entry to China. Travelers can stay for up to 30 days, with the visa-free status applicable to several purposes: business, tourism, visiting family or friends, and transit. This policy has been set to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, providing ample time for travelers from these two countries to explore China’s rich culture and history.

Scope of the Visa-Free Entry

This new policy marks a significant step in China’s push to expand its visa-free programs. While China currently offers a 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy to citizens from 54 countries, the visa-free entry for the UK and Canada represents a deeper commitment to expanding access to its major cultural and business hubs. These travelers are not required to apply for a visa if their stay is within the 30-day limit.

New Flight Routes: China Eastern Airlines to Launch Sydney to Beijing Daxing Service

China Eastern Airlines has further solidified its commitment to boosting connectivity between Australia and China by announcing the launch of a new flight route from Sydney to Beijing Daxing. Set to commence on March 30, 2026, the service will operate three times a week, utilizing an Airbus A330-200 aircraft for the year-round route.

Key Features of the New Sydney to Beijing Daxing Route

• Flight Frequency: Three times a week.
• Aircraft: Airbus A330-200, a wide-body aircraft offering a comfortable travel experience.
• Layovers: Passengers will benefit from a strategic technical stop in Wuhan. With a single boarding pass and through-checked baggage, travelers will not need to re-clear their luggage during the brief stop, ensuring a seamless journey to Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).

This new route significantly enhances connectivity between Australia and Northern China, tapping into both the tourism and business sectors. It is part of China Eastern Airlines’ broader strategy to strengthen its network and promote travel between key global markets.

Emirates & Loong Air Interline Agreement Expands Chinese Domestic Reach

Emirates, a global leader in international aviation, has partnered with Hangzhou-based Loong Air to further expand its reach in China’s domestic market. This interline agreement, effective immediately, enables Emirates passengers to seamlessly connect to 22 additional destinations across China through Loong Air’s hubs in Hangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong.

What Does the Agreement Mean for Travelers?

Travelers flying with Emirates can now book multi-airline itineraries with a single ticket and enjoy a unified baggage policy and consistent fare conditions. This agreement significantly expands Emirates’ existing network in China, which already includes partnerships with major carriers like Air China and China Southern Airlines. The expanded connectivity covers crucial regional economic and cultural hubs such as Zhengzhou, Changchun, Haikou, Xiangyang, and Dazhou, unlocking new travel opportunities for passengers.

By strengthening its ties with Loong Air, Emirates continues to assert its presence in China’s thriving domestic market, catering to the growing demand for both leisure and business travel within the country.

Luxury Hospitality Growth: IHG Brings Palm Springs Hotel Chengdu into Vignette Collection

In tandem with the expansion of flight routes, the hospitality sector in China is also seeing substantial growth. The InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has officially added the Palm Springs Hotel Chengdu to its prestigious Vignette Collection, a luxury brand known for offering immersive, culturally enriched hotel experiences.

The Significance of This New Luxury Hotel in Chengdu

The Palm Springs Hotel Chengdu, located in the Hi-Tech District near the New Century Global Center, will offer a unique stay experience that reflects the region’s cultural and historical richness. This addition to IHG’s Vignette Collection underscores the growing demand for high-end, culturally immersive luxury stays. It caters to travelers seeking more than just a place to stay, offering them an opportunity to engage deeply with local culture, architecture, and art.

This new project aligns with the broader trend of China’s luxury hospitality sector, which continues to see an influx of international hotel brands investing in major cities like Chengdu. These luxury properties are designed to provide travelers with personalized experiences, tapping into the demand for unique stays rather than standardized corporate hotels.

Looking Ahead: China’s Inbound Travel Landscape in 2026

China’s inbound travel sector is clearly on the rise in 2026, driven by policy changes, new airline routes, and enhanced hospitality offerings. The expanded visa-free entry for UK and Canadian passport holders, the launch of new international flight services, and the rapid growth of luxury hotel options all contribute to the country’s evolving tourism landscape.

With the Chinese government pushing for greater international connectivity and continued investment in tourism infrastructure, 2026 is set to be a pivotal year for China’s inbound travel industry. As the world’s second-largest economy continues to open up to global visitors, these developments will likely set the stage for even greater growth in the coming years.

Greece is roaring back into the spotlight. Evangelos Marinakis is making waves. Capital Group is doubling down on crude oil tankers. And Capital Tankers is about to explode onto the public markets. This is not a quiet listing. This is a bold maritime strike.

Greek shipping tycoon Evangelos Marinakis is launching Capital Tankers on Euronext Growth Oslo. The goal is clear. Build a publicly traded, pure-play tanker company. Rival the biggest names in the crude oil tanker segment. Challenge Frontline. Stand shoulder to shoulder with Euronav. Dominate the tanker market.

Capital Tankers will be incorporated in the Marshall Islands. It is targeting a listing by mid-March. It may uplist to the main Oslo Stock Exchange. It may also pursue a dual listing in the United States. The ambition is global. The timing is sharp. The message is loud.

This is Greece asserting power in global shipping again.

Evangelos Marinakis Bets Big on the Crude Oil Tanker Segment and Refuses to Blink

Evangelos Marinakis is not testing the water. He is diving deep. Capital Group has placed a large bet on the crude oil tanker segment. Now Capital Tankers will carry that bet into the public arena.

The strategy is simple and fierce. Focus only on crude oil tankers. Offer investors a pure-play tanker company. Keep exposure to spot and short-term markets. Capture volatility. Capture upside. Move fast.

Capital Tankers will take over vessels ordered by Capital Maritime & Trading. That parent group has a strong public markets track record. It backs NASDAQ-listed Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp. That credibility matters.

Jerry Kalogiratos, CEO of Capital Tankers, calls it a unique opportunity. He says the fleet will be the youngest and most technologically advanced crude tanker fleet in the public markets. That is not modest language. That is a challenge to the giants.

Capital Tankers wants to stand tall in the crude oil tanker segment. And it wants to do it quickly.

Oslo Listing Frenzy: Capital Tankers Targets Up to $345 Million in Explosive Private Placement

Capital Tankers is moving with precision. It has engaged Fearnley Securities and Pareto Securities as joint global coordinators. Clarksons Securities and SB1 Markets are acting as joint bookrunners. The aim is clear. Raise as much as three hundred and forty-five million dollars through a private placement including overallotment.

The filing is expected around early March. The listing could follow days later. The speed signals confidence.

Euronext Growth Oslo has become a magnet for shipping listings. It is dynamic. It is visible. It gives access to capital hungry for maritime exposure.

But this is just the beginning. Capital Tankers is exploring an uplisting to the main Oslo Stock Exchange. It is also considering a dual listing in the United States. That move would unlock deeper liquidity and a broader investor base.

Capital Tankers is not thinking small. It is building a global equity story around crude oil tankers.

Fleet Power Play: Thirty Tankers Built to Shake the Market

When fully delivered, Capital Tankers will control a fleet of thirty crude oil tankers. That number matters. It places the company directly in the heavyweight arena.

The fleet will include twelve VLCCs. Ten Suezmax vessels. Eight Aframax or LR2 tankers. This is a diversified crude oil tanker platform.

Three vessels are already operating. Five more are expected within months. Twenty-two additional tankers are on order.

Capital Tankers also holds thirteen options at fixed prices extending into the future. That gives flexibility. That gives control.

Most vessels will be LNG dual-fuel capable or LNG-ready. They will be fitted with scrubbers. That means better efficiency. That means regulatory readiness.

Compared to Euronav’s fleet of thirty-one tankers and Frontline’s seventy-five, Capital Tankers is entering the race with serious firepower.

The crude oil tanker segment just gained a new contender.

Marshall Islands Incorporation with Greek Backbone and Global Reach

Capital Tankers will be incorporated in the Marshall Islands. That is common in global shipping. It offers flexibility and efficiency.

But the backbone remains Greek. Evangelos Marinakis. Capital Group. Capital Maritime & Trading. These names carry weight.

The structure is designed for speed and global investor appeal. It aligns with international maritime norms. It ensures operational efficiency.

Capital Tankers will also benefit from a first right of refusal for a decade on tanker newbuilds or long-term vessel employment opportunities that Capital Maritime & Trading encounters. That pipeline is powerful.

This means Capital Tankers may access future growth before competitors even see it.

The crude oil tanker strategy is long-term. The capital markets strategy is flexible. The ambition is unmistakable.

Spot Market Strategy: High Risk, High Reward, High Drama

Capital Tankers will focus on spot and short-term exposure. That means earnings can swing. But it also means capturing peaks.

In volatile oil markets, crude oil tanker rates can surge. A spot-heavy fleet can capitalise fast.

This strategy is not defensive. It is aggressive. It seeks upside. It rides market cycles.

Supported by a competitive operating cost structure, Capital Tankers aims to stay lean. Lower costs. Stronger margins. Greater resilience.

In the crude oil tanker segment, timing is everything. Exposure matters. Flexibility wins.

Capital Tankers is building a model designed to react, pivot, and profit.

A Direct Challenge to Frontline and Euronav

Let us be clear. Capital Tankers is not entering a quiet niche. It is stepping into an arena ruled by giants.

Frontline stands as the largest crude oil tanker company. Euronav remains a formidable force.

Capital Tankers is positioning itself to rival the largest companies in the sector. That language is deliberate. It signals intent.

With thirty vessels planned, LNG dual-fuel capabilities, scrubbers, and a modern design, the fleet aims to compete on technology and efficiency.

Youth matters. Technology matters. Cost control matters.

Capital Tankers wants investors to see a pure-play crude oil tanker champion backed by a proven Greek shipping powerhouse.

The battle lines are drawn.

Capital Tankers: A New Era for Greek Shipping Ambition

Greek shipping has long dominated global seas. Evangelos Marinakis represents a modern chapter in that story.

With Capital Tankers, Greece signals renewed ambition in the crude oil tanker segment. The company blends tradition with innovation. It pairs public market access with operational scale.

The Euronext Growth Oslo listing is just the first milestone. The potential uplisting. The possible US dual listing. The fleet expansion. The fixed-price options. The right of refusal.

Each piece builds a larger narrative. Capital Tankers is not merely listing shares. It is crafting a bold maritime platform.

For investors seeking exposure to crude oil tankers, Capital Tankers offers scale, youth, and backing. For competitors, it offers pressure.

The crude oil tanker market has a new force.

And it carries the name Capital Tankers.

Australia’s coastline is world-renowned for its natural beauty, diversity, and pristine beaches, and the 2026 Best Australian Beaches list showcases the very best the nation has to offer. From the iconic, golden sands of Bate Bay in Sydney’s south to the hidden gems nestled in the rugged landscapes of Tasmania and the tropical paradise of Queensland, this year’s selection promises to take beach lovers on an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re seeking remote, untouched beaches for tranquility, crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim, or vibrant coastal towns for adventure, Australia’s top 10 beaches for 2026 offer something for everyone. Each destination has been handpicked for its unique charm, beauty, and commitment to coastal conservation, ensuring a sustainable future for these breathtaking spots.

The list, curated by an esteemed beach expert and Tourism Australia’s Beach Ambassador, is designed to not only celebrate the beauty of Australia’s beaches but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these natural wonders. Each year, the study highlights the best beaches across the entire nation, covering every state and territory. The 2026 list brings attention to a variety of breathtaking beaches, from the rugged, wild cliffs of Tasmania to the tropical, serene coves of Queensland, and even a unique inland beach in the Northern Territory. Australia’s coastline offers an incredibly diverse mix of beach experiences, and the study ensures that all 12,500-plus beaches in the country receive recognition for their ecological and cultural significance.

Bate Bay Beaches – New South Wales
Taking the crown as the best beach in Australia for 2026 is the pristine Bate Bay, located in the Sutherland Shire, south of Sydney. This stretch of coastline is known for its natural beauty, with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. The area is surrounded by national parks, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and nature, as well as beach lovers and surfers looking to catch some waves.

Pinky Beach – Western Australia
Tucked away on the iconic Rottnest Island, Pinky Beach is an untouched paradise in Western Australia. Known for its vibrant, turquoise waters and the surrounding rugged beauty of the island, this beach is an absolute must-see. The stunning contrast between the white sand and the clear blue water creates an idyllic setting, making it a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the sand.

Beachcomber Cove – Queensland
Queensland’s Beachcomber Cove offers a unique coastal experience with its sheltered, calm waters, ideal for those looking to explore the underwater world. The cove is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, and its pristine waters are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. It’s a serene spot for those who prefer a more peaceful beach experience.

Tallow Beach – New South Wales
Situated in the Byron Bay area, Tallow Beach is known for its wild and natural beauty. It’s less crowded than the popular Byron Bay beaches, providing a more secluded experience. The beach is home to beautiful dunes and offers stunning views, particularly at sunrise. It’s the perfect place for a long walk along the shore or a relaxing day by the ocean.

Hellfire Bay – Western Australia
Located in the stunning Cape Le Grand National Park, Hellfire Bay is a true hidden gem. Its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands create a tropical paradise. Hellfire Bay is a favorite spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, swimming, and wildlife watching.

Godfreys Beach – The Nut – Tasmania
Tasmania’s Godfreys Beach, set against the dramatic backdrop of The Nut, a towering volcanic formation, is a striking location that attracts those seeking adventure and natural beauty. The beach is perfect for a scenic walk, wildlife spotting, and photography, with the surrounding cliffs adding to the uniqueness of the landscape.

Inskip Point – Queensland
Inskip Point, located on the beautiful Fraser Coast in Queensland, is known for its stunning views and abundant wildlife. The beach is a popular spot for camping, fishing, and four-wheel driving. It is also a gateway to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Mount Martha – Victoria
Mount Martha Beach is a tranquil haven in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Known for its shallow, calm waters, it’s an ideal location for families and those looking for a relaxing beach experience. The beach is surrounded by beautiful parklands and has a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to spend a day by the water.

Smoky Bay – South Australia
Located on the Eyre Peninsula, Smoky Bay offers a secluded escape with stunning views of the coastline. The beach is renowned for its clear, warm waters and is perfect for fishing, swimming, and relaxing by the ocean. The calm waters are also ideal for families with children, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful getaway.

Ellery Creek Big Hole – Northern Territory
Nestled in the heart of the Northern Territory, Ellery Creek Big Hole is a remarkable inland oasis, encircled by towering rock formations. This freshwater pool offers an idyllic setting for swimming and relaxing picnics, all while immersing visitors in the raw, untamed beauty of the Australian outback. Its secluded location and tranquil waters provide an ideal retreat from the fast-paced world, offering peace and serenity in one of the most striking landscapes of the region.

This year’s list offers a mixture of iconic and off-the-beaten-track beaches, each providing a unique Australian experience. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or breathtaking natural beauty, these top 10 beaches for 2026 are a must-visit. From remote, untouched beaches to lively, vibrant coastal spots, Australia’s beaches continue to captivate visitors with their diversity and unparalleled beauty. As always, the study aims to raise awareness of the importance of coastal conservation, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy these extraordinary landscapes.

A TUI Fly flight originating from Amsterdam and headed to Montego Bay, a prime tourism hub in Jamaica, encountered a mid-flight diversion to Bermuda before rerouting to Cancun, Mexico. This incident highlights vulnerabilities in long-haul tourism travel to popular Caribbean destinations. The event has sparked concerns over how such disruptions affect tourism recovery in Montego Bay, Bermuda, and Cancun.

The Boeing 787 aircraft departed Amsterdam Schiphol Airport carrying passengers eager for Montego Bay‘s beaches and resorts, key draws for European tourism. Crew opted for an emergency landing at Bermuda‘s L.F. Wade International Airport after detecting an onboard situation requiring immediate attention. Such decisions prioritize safety but inevitably delay arrivals to tourism-reliant spots like Montego Bay.

Bermuda Steps In as Critical Diversion Hub

Bermuda served as the first stop, leveraging its position in the North Atlantic for transatlantic emergencies. Airport authorities there mobilized emergency services swiftly upon the aircraft’s arrival. This quick response minimized further risks but stranded travelers away from their Montego Bay tourism plans.

Bermuda‘s aviation infrastructure handles such diversions routinely, supporting tourism indirectly by ensuring safe passage to nearby Caribbean islands. However, limited hotel capacity at L.F. Wade meant overnight stays for passengers, extending disruptions. This scenario underscores Bermuda‘s role in bolstering regional tourism safety nets while exposing capacity strains during peak winter travel.

The diversion to Bermuda forced logistical rearrangements, including crew rest adjustments per international regulations. Passengers received accommodations and updates, yet the shift postponed their Montego Bay itineraries. Tourism operators in Jamaica noted potential ripple effects on bookings as news spread.

Reroute to Cancun Alters Tourism Trajectories

After stabilization in Bermuda, the flight proceeded not to Montego Bay but to Cancun, altering the journey for all aboard. Cancun International Airport welcomed the aircraft, providing onward options amid the unplanned arrival. This leg highlighted Mexico’s readiness to absorb diverted tourism traffic from Caribbean routes.

Cancun, a powerhouse in tourism with its Riviera Maya attractions, absorbed the influx without reported hitches. Ground handling facilitated rebookings, though some passengers faced extended waits. The move to Cancun instead of Montego Bay prompted questions on routing decisions post-diversion.

This path change impacted tourism dynamics, as Cancun gains unexpected visitors while Montego Bay sees shortfalls. Airlines like TUI Fly must balance safety with tourism schedules, often leading to such compromises.

Impact on Caribbean Tourism Ecosystem

The multi-stop ordeal disrupts tourism flows to Montego Bay, Bermuda, and Cancun, core pillars of Caribbean economies. Montego Bay relies on direct European charters for hotel occupancy and excursions; delays erode traveler confidence. Early 2026 data shows tourism arrivals dipping amid such incidents.

Bermuda benefits from emergency landings by showcasing facilities, potentially boosting its niche tourism appeal. Yet, overuse could strain resources during high season. Cancun‘s flexibility aids tourism resilience, diverting guests to its resorts and boosting local spending unexpectedly.

Overall, Caribbean tourism faces challenges from aviation unpredictabilities. Stakeholders push for enhanced medical kits and diversion protocols to safeguard tourism volumes. Winter sun-seekers from Europe, TUI Fly’s core market, may hesitate, affecting Montego Bay and Cancun occupancy rates.

TUI Fly’s Response and Operational Adjustments

TUI Fly coordinated with Bermuda and Cancun authorities to manage the situation efficiently. Aircraft inspections cleared it for the next leg, adhering to global standards. Crew changes ensured compliance with flight time limits, preventing further halts.

The airline adjusted its network, swapping planes for subsequent flights. This flexibility maintains tourism links but incurs costs passed subtly to fares. Passengers received compensations, fostering loyalty amid tourism disruptions.

Lessons for Future Tourism Travel

Incidents like this emphasize robust contingency planning for tourism carriers. Diversions to Bermuda and Cancun test regional cooperation, vital for Caribbean tourism growth. Travelers to Montego Bay should monitor updates and opt for flexible bookings.

Enhanced onboard tech and training mitigate risks, preserving tourism momentum. Montego Bay, Bermuda, and Cancun continue drawing crowds, undeterred long-term by single events. Yet, cumulative disruptions could slow 2026 tourism rebounds.

Broader Implications for Regional Tourism

Caribbean tourism thrives on seamless flights; this event spotlights inter-island dependencies. Montego Bay‘s Sangster Airport awaits diverted passengers, ready with transfers. Cancun‘s hub status shines, potentially capturing spillover tourism.

Governments in Jamaica and Mexico monitor such cases to refine policies. Bermuda‘s aviation authority logs data for improvements. Sustained tourism requires airlines to prioritize reliability on routes to these destinations.

Image Credit: TUI Belgium

The official tourism organization of Napa Valley, which promotes the famous California wine region, has launched a new marketing campaign that will transform visitor perceptions of luxurious travel experiences. The campaign, which uses the title “Live a Little or a Lot,” enables visitors to Napa Valley to choose their own way of experiencing the region between its peaceful environments and its luxurious offerings. The destination will provide visitors with customized luxury experiences through this initiative, which serves both guests who want to enjoy quiet time and those who want to experience high-end vacations.

Napa Valley is well-known for its world-class wineries, scenic landscapes, and sophisticated dining options. However, the new campaign acknowledges that luxury is a highly personal experience. Some travelers may prefer a serene afternoon sipping wine in a vineyard, while others may wish to indulge in Michelin-starred meals, exclusive spa treatments, or extravagant experiences like seven-course wine-paired lunches aboard a restored 1915 Pullman rail car. The campaign celebrates these diverse preferences, encouraging individuals to design their own version of the “good life.”

‘Live a Little or a Lot’ was created in collaboration with independent full-service agency The Shipyard and is being promoted in key markets such as California, New York, and Texas. It will run across various media channels, including connected TV (CTV), social media, digital displays, and print, alongside strategic editorial and branded content partnerships with publications like Modern Luxury, Condé Nast, VinePair, and Wine Spectator.

Tailored Travel: A New Era of Luxury

In today’s travel climate, many individuals seek experiences that reflect their personal tastes, moving away from generic, algorithm-driven itineraries. Napa Valley’s new campaign captures this shift by offering visitors the flexibility to explore Napa Valley’s five distinct towns, Calistoga, St. Helena, Yountville, Napa, and American Canyon, each with its own unique vibe. Whether travellers are looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure filled with luxury, they can tailor their visit to meet their own expectations.

The campaign includes six captivating 30-second spots that showcase a wide range of Napa Valley experiences. From intimate moments in vineyards to lavish nights in luxurious accommodations, these spots display Napa Valley’s versatility. One standout example is the Michelin-starred dining experiences set against the stunning backdrop of the valley’s rolling hills and sun-drenched vineyards.

Amanda Moul, Vice President of Account Management at The Shipyard, noted that Napa Valley’s challenge was to convey its world-class offerings while ensuring they remained accessible to a broader audience. The balance between high-end luxury and approachable indulgence is at the heart of the “Live a Little or a Lot” campaign. Napa Valley offers an experience for every kind of traveler, with elevated yet attainable options for everyone.

A Destination for Every Traveller

While Napa Valley is synonymous with fine wine and opulent experiences, the destination is not just for those with deep pockets. In fact, many of Napa’s most charming and memorable experiences are accessible, making the region an attractive choice for all types of visitors.

For those seeking adventure, the Napa Valley Vine Trail offers over 47 miles of walking and biking paths that connect Napa’s wineries, charming towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can take in the valley’s natural beauty while enjoying the outdoor activities Napa has to offer. Beyond the vineyards, Napa Valley also boasts hot air balloon rides, art galleries, golf courses, and wellness retreats. This variety ensures that Napa is a versatile destination, appealing to a broad spectrum of travellers.

Moreover, Napa Valley‘s commitment to sustainable tourism practices enhances the experience. Local wineries and restaurants are increasingly adopting eco-friendly measures, such as using organic farming methods and reducing waste, making Napa an attractive destination for eco-conscious visitors. The region continues to support sustainable initiatives while delivering the high-quality experiences that Napa is famous for.

Napa Valley’s New Campaign Offers Something for Everyone

The “Live a Little or a Lot” campaign from Visit Napa Valley invites travelers to define luxury on their own terms. By highlighting the diverse experiences the region offers, from laid-back vineyard visits to luxurious stays and extravagant experiences, Napa Valley establishes itself as a destination that accommodates all preferences. Whether seeking an intimate escape or a lavish indulgence, Napa Valley is now more accessible than ever, and travelers have the freedom to curate a truly personal experience.

Napa Valley will attract different types of travellers in 2026 because its world-class facilities and luxury services make the destination accessible to all visitors. The expanding destination shows that different people have unique ways to experience luxury in their own “good life” through the various options available in Napa Valley.