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24 February 2026 at 02:02

İngiltərə Premyer Liqasında XXVII tura yekun vurulub.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Çelsi” azarkeşləri önündə “Bernli” ilə heç-heçə edib. “Qarabağ”ın Çempionlar Liqasındakı rəqibi “Nyukasl” səfərdə “Mançester Siti”yə uduzub.

Lider “Arsenal” Londonda “Tottenhem”ə qalib gəlib.

Turun son matçıdna “Mançester Yunayted” səfərdə “Everton”u məğlub edib.

İngiltərə Premyer Liqası
XXVII tur

21 fevral

Aston Villa – Lids 1:1
Qollar:
T.Abraham, 88 – Stax, 31.

Çelsi – Bernli 1:1
Qollar:
J.Pedro, 4 – Flemminq, 90+3.

Vest Hem – Bornmut 0:0

Brentford – Brayton 0:2
Qollar
: D.Qomes, 30. Uelbek, 45+1.

Mançester Siti – Nyukasl 2:1
Qollar:
O’Rayli, 14; 27 – Holl, 22.

22 fevral

Kristal Pelas – Vulverhempton 1:0
Qol:
Gessand, 90.

Nottingem Forest – Liverpul 0:1
Qol:
Makallister, 90+7.

Sanderlend – Fulhem 1:3
Qollar:
Le Fi, 76 – R.Ximenes, 54; 61-pen. İvobi, 85.

Tottenhem – Arsenal 1:4
Qollar:
Kolo Muani, 34 – Eze, 32; 61. Dyökereş, 47; 90+4.

23 fevral

Everton – Mançester Yunayted 0:1
Qol: Sesko, 72

Eddi: “Məqsədimiz qələbə qazanmaqdır”

23 February 2026 at 21:27

“Nyukasl”ın baş məşqçisi Eddi Hau Çempionlar Liqasında “Qarabağ”a qarşı keçirəcəkləri oyundan əvvəl fikirlərini bölüşüb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis matçla bağlı bunları deyib:

“Heyətdə rotasiyalar olacaq, amma məqsədimiz qələbə qazanmaq, ritmi itirməməkdir. İlk oyundakı nəticə önəmlidir, lakin mənimçün daha vacib olan sərgilədiyimiz futbol, oyunçuların davranışıdır”.

“Nyukasl” – “Qarabağ” oyunu sabah, saat 00:00-da start götürəcək. Komandalar arasındakı ilk matçda ingilislər qələbə qazanıb – 6:1.

NFL Combine invites by school: Alabama, Ohio State, LSU lead 2026 prospects class

Ty Simpson

NFL Combine invites by school: Alabama, Ohio State, LSU lead 2026 prospects class originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Every year, the NFL scouting combine is a chance for prospects to prove teams should take them in April's NFL draft.

As usual, the combine will feature more players coming from brand-name schools that played in the College Football Playoff last year. The SEC and Big 10 typically dominate these events, with many of best players coming from the same schools every year.

For the 2026 scouting combine, teams like Texas A&M, Alabama and Ohio State will have players all over the workouts. In fact, seven teams will have double-digit players at the combine in Indianapolis, producing a large portion of the players participating.

Here's a look at which schools will have the most players at the 2026 NFL scouting combine.

MORE: When is the NFL scouting combine?

NFL combine invites by school

RankSchoolNumber of invites
1.Texas A&M13
2.Alabama12
T-3.Ohio State11
T-3.LSU11
T-5.Oklahoma10
T-5.Miami10
T-5.Georgia10
T-8.Clemson9
T-8.Florida9
T-8.Indiana9
T-8.Iowa9
T-8.Penn State9

Texas A&M

Invites:

  • RB Le'Veon Moss
  • WR KC Concepcion
  • TE Nate Boerkircher
  • OL Chase Bisontis
  • OL Dametrious Crownover
  • OL Ar'maj Reed-Adams
  • OL Trey Zuhn III
  • DL Cashius Howell
  • DL Tyler Onyedim
  • DL Albert Regis
  • LB Scooby Williams
  • LB Taurean York
  • DB Will Lee III

The Aggies lead the way 13 players invited to the scouting combine, spread out pretty evenly between offense and defense. The three players to watch in this group are KC Concepcion, Chase Bisontis and Cashius Howell.

Alabama

Invites:

  • QB Ty Simpson
  • RB Jam Miller
  • WR Germie Bernard
  • TE Josh Cuevas
  • OL Parker Brailsford
  • OL Kadyn Proctor
  • OL Jaeden Roberts
  • DL Tim Keenan III
  • DL LT Overton
  • LB Justin Jefferson
  • LB Deontae Lawson
  • DB Domani Jackson

Alabama's Ty Simpson will be one of the most popular players at the combine, as the quarterback aims to secure a first-round reputation. Simpson is expected to participate in most workouts, while Germie Bernard, Kadyn Proctor and Tim Keenan III are also big names for the Crimson Tide

Ohio State

Invites:

  • RB CJ Donaldson
  • WR Carnell Tate
  • TE Will Kacmarek
  • TE Max Klare
  • DL Caden Curry
  • DL Kayden McDonald
  • LB Arvell Reese
  • LB Sonny Styles
  • DB Caleb Downs
  • DB Davison Igbinosun
  • DB Lorenzo Styles Jr.

Ohio State's star-studded combine invite is the most talented of all teams representd. The list features five potential first-round picks including Carnell Tate, Kayden McDonald, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs.

LSU

Invites:

  • QB Garrett Nussmeier
  • WR Aaron Anderson
  • WR Barion Brown
  • WR Chris Hilton Jr.
  • WR Zavion Thomas
  • TE Bauer Sharp
  • DL Patrick Payton
  • DL Jack Pyburn
  • LB Harold Perkins Jr.
  • DB Mansoor Delane
  • DB A.J. Haulcy

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is facing a big opportunity in the combine to raise his stock ahead of the NFL draft. Besides Nussmeier, Harold Perkins Jr. and Mansoor Delane are also interesting names to watch.

Oklahoma

Invites:

  • WR Deion Burks
  • TE Jaren Kanak
  • OL Febechi Nwaiwu
  • DL Gracen Halton
  • DL Marvin Jones Jr.
  • DL R Mason Thomas
  • DL Damonic Williams
  • LB Kendal Daniels
  • LB Owen Heinecke
  • DB Robert Spears-Jennings

Oklahoma's combine group is very heavy on defense, featuring four defensive lineman, two linebackers and a defensive back. however, WR Deion Burks is one of the better Sooners in the draft, along with DL R Mason Thomas.

Miami

Invites:

  • QB Carson Beck
  • WR CJ Daniels
  • OL Markel Bell
  • OL Anez Cooper
  • OL Francis Mauigoa
  • DL Rueben Bain Jr.
  • DL Akheem Mesidor
  • LB Wesley Bissainthe
  • DB Keionte Scott
  • DB Jakobe Thomas

Miami went to the National Championship last season, showing how talented the roster was. Rueben Bain Jr. and Francis Mauigoa are potential top-10 picks, while Akheem Mesidor and Keionte Scott are also expected to be taken high.

Georgia

Invites:

  • WR Dillon Bell
  • WR Zachariah Branch
  • WR Colbie Young
  • TE Oscar Delp
  • OL Monroe Freeling
  • OL Micah Morris
  • DL Christen Miller
  • LB CJ Allen
  • DB Daylen Everette
  • P Brett Thorson

Georgia consistently produces large swaths of NFL talent, and this year is no different. Zachariah Branch is the biggest name available, but other Bulldogs worth noting are Monroe Freeling, Christen Miller and CJ Allen.

MORETracking which players were franchise-tagged in 2026

Barcelona youngster set to miss 10/12 weeks through injury

Barcelona youngster set to miss 10/12 weeks through injury
Barcelona youngster set to miss 10/12 weeks through injury

Barcelona youngster Jofre Torrents is primed for a prolonged incoming spell on the treatment table in Catalunya’s capital.

This comes owing to an injury suffered this past weekend.

The name of left-back Jofre will of course be a familiar one to those of a Barcelona persuasion.

After bursting onto the first-team picture in Hansi Flick’s squad last summer, the Spanish starlet has since been a regular in matchday setups, giving rise to four senior appearances across the season to date.

Recent weeks have seen Jofre return to reserve team level in Catalunya, following the winter arrival of João Cancelo.

On Sunday, the 19-year-old therefore took to the pitch for Barca Atlètic, in a meeting with Alcoyano.

En route to an eventual 1-1 draw, though, Jofre was hauled off during the 2nd-half in evident distress, after picking up an ankle problem.

And as alluded to above, 24 hours on, the extent of this issue has been confirmed.

As per a statement across Barcelona’s website and social media platforms:

‘The medical tests carried out have shown that Jofre Torrents, a player from Barça Atlètic, has a syndesmosis injury to his left ankle. The estimated recovery time will be between 10 and 12 weeks.’

Conor Laird – GSFN

Celtic to earn close to £1m in Scottish Cup clash at Ibrox

Celtic to earn close to £1m in Scottish Cup clash at Ibrox
Celtic to earn close to £1m in Scottish Cup clash at Ibrox

Celtic look set to pocket almost £1m when they face Rangers in the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup Quarter Final next month. The clubs have already agreed that Celtic fans will receive the traditional ‘Celtic End’ in Govan but ticket prices mean that the club will be walking away with a sizeable sum.

While supporters will be looking forward to the Free Broomloan being draped in Green and White again, Rangers have quietly confirmed ticket prices for the game with Adults asked to pay £53 with concessions just £10 less. This estimates a ticket revenue from the game of over £2.5m.

Celtic are estimated to take around 37% of the gate receipts as per SFA rules, meaning that the Hoops could take around £925,000 in ticket revenue from the game. As some online have pointed out, this is more than the prize pot for winning the Scottish Cup in May.

The game has an added dynamic as the Scottish Champions travel to Ibrox for a second time in a week, meeting in the league next Sunday. Supporters lucky enough to get a ticket had to pay £56 for the pleasure of watching the title contenders battle it out.

Celtic supporters will be eager to hear updates for the sale, especially given the rare chance to enjoy the full allocation again. Rangers made it clear that this was a cup arrangement and the allocations would revert to the previously agreed European style allocation.

Commanders, OL Andrew Wylie agree to two-year deal

The Commanders are holding onto one of their top reserve offensive linemen.

They have agreed to a new deal with Andrew Wylie, who was set to become a free agent. Multiple reporters confirmed a report by Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team that the deal is for two years and is worth $7.5 million with an upside of $10.5 million.

Wylie started 29 games for the Commanders over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, but only started five of his 16 appearances during the 2025 season. He spent his first five seasons in Kansas City and started 59 games during his time with the Chiefs.

Left guard Chris Paul is still set for free agency in Washington. Backups Trent Scott, George Fant, and Lucas Niang also do not have contracts for 2026.

Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 official with old rivals to box at Sphere in Las Vegas

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will clash in a professional fight in September, 11 years after their first showdown, which was the most-lucrative boxing match in history.

On 19 September, Mayweather and Pacquiao will square off at the Sphere in Las Vegas, the same city where Mayweather outpointed his Filipino rival in 2015.

Their first fight still holds the records for most pay-per-view sales (4.6m) and highest gate ($72.2m) in boxing history.

American Mayweather will turn 48 on Tuesday, while Pacquiao is 47 years old. Each man is expected to compete in his own exhibition match this spring, before they share a ring live on Netflix.

Addressing the news in a press release, “Money” Mayweather kept it short and sweet: “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result.”

Meanwhile, “Pac Man” said: “Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history. The fans have waited long enough – they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix.

Floyd Mayweather (left) beat Manny Pacquiao on points in their 2015 fight (AP)
Floyd Mayweather (left) beat Manny Pacquiao on points in their 2015 fight (AP)

“I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines.”

As Pacquiao mentioned, Mayweather has an unbeaten pro record of 50-0 (27 knockouts), with his last pro contest taking place in 2018, when he beat UFC star Conor McGregor via TKO. Since then, he has competed in a number of exhibition bouts.

Pacquiao’s pro record stands at 62-8-3 (39 KOs), and he remains the only eight-weight world champion in boxing history, while Mayweather is a former five-weight title holder.

Pacquiao actually returned to pro boxing last summer, fighting then-champion Mario Barrios to a draw in their WBC welterweight title bout. He had contested an exhibition bout in 2024, and his previous pro bout was a 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas.

Pacquiao has been heavily involved in politics in the Philippines (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)
Pacquiao has been heavily involved in politics in the Philippines (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Pacquiao has also been heavily involved in politics in his home country, having served as a senator in the Philippines from 2016 until 2022, and having launched a failed presidential bid ahead of the 2022 election.

Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 sees Netflix continue its venture into boxing, with the streaming platform having hosted several high-profile fights since 2024.

In November of that year, influencer Jake Paul beat a 58-year-old Mike Tyson, defeating the heavyweight legend on points. In 2025, a trio of events followed: an undisputed title fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, with the Irishwoman going 3-0 in their trilogy; another undisputed contest as Terence Crawford beat Canelo Alvarez; and a crossover bout between Paul and ex-heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, who stopped the American in six rounds.

Pacquiao and Mayweather agree professional rematch

Boxing greats Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather have agreed a professional rematch in September.

Pacquiao, 47, and Mayweather, 48, will fight at Sphere in Las Vegas on Saturday, 19 September, with the bout live on Netflix.

Former world champion Mayweather announced he would come out of retirement for a fourth time last week.

It will be the American's first professional fight since beating mixed martial arts fight Conor McGregor with a 10th-round technical knockout in 2017.

Eight-weight world champion Pacquiao retired from the sport to focus on his political career in 2021 but returned to the ring last July to fight WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, who retained his title after a draw.

Mayweather and Pacquiao first met in 2015, in what was billed as the 'Fight of the Century'.

It was Mayweather who emerged victorious, beating Pacquiao via a wide unanimous decision in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao said: "Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history.

"The fans have waited long enough. They deserve this rematch.

"I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him."

Mayweather said: "I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result."

More to follow.

More boxing from the BBC

Updated 5-star recruits in the 2027 Rivals Industry Ranking

5-star recruits

Following the release of the updated Rivals300 rankings for the Class of 2027, there has been some significant movement among the 5-star recruits this cycle.

Five-Star Plus+ cornerback John Meredith IIIstill sits as the No. 1 prospect in the country in the Rivals Industry Ranking. But behind him there are a pair of new players in the top five, headlined by Ohio State EDGE commit David Jacobs moving up from No. 10 all the way to No. 2.

Three new players moved into five-star status with 20 players currently tabbed as five-stars. And in the coming months, that will expand to the full 32 to match the first round of the NFL Draft. The full list of five-stars can be found below:

The Rivals Industry Ranking is a proprietary algorithm that compiles ratings and rankings from all three primary recruiting media services. The Rivals Industry Ranking is the industry’s most advanced, complete, and unbiased measurement. It equally weights the primary recruiting media services as follows: Rivals (33%), 247Sports (33%), and ESPN (33%). 

1. CB John Meredith III

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 2
247Sports: No. 6
ESPN: No. 3
School:North Crowley (Fort Worth, TX)
Scouting Summary: Long and dynamic corner prospect with elite length and top-end speed. Can cover any body type at receiver that lines up against him. 6-foot-2, 180-plus pounds with 33-inch arms. Ran sub-22 in the 200m and jumped over 43 feet in the triple jump during his sophomore track and field season. Has the speed and hip fluidity to cover more sudden receivers and the physicality and length to handle bigger-bodied options. Excellent ball skills and ability to attack the football in the air. Needs to continue developing footwork and instincts in man coverage but has all the physical and athletic tools coaches covet at the position.

2. EDGE David Jacobs – Ohio State

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 12
247Sports: No. 1
ESPN: No. 4
School:Blessed Trinity Catholic (Roswell, GA)
Scout’s Take: “Jacobs looks to have one of the highest floors of the group and has done enough to earn a fifth star for Rivals. Jacobs is one of the more physically-developed edge rusher prospects in the cycle, checking in at around 6-foot-5, 235 pounds. He had a great junior season at Roswell (Ga.) Blessed Trinity, racking up 24 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. The Buckeye pledge has a quick first step and quality bend. He also had back-to-back good showings at the Under Armour All-America Game and the Polynesian Bowl in January. While Jacobs lacks prototypical length for top prospects at the position (sub 32-inch arms), the level of polish and high floor make him one of the safer bets of the 2027 edge rusher group at this point.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

3. IOL Maxwell Hiller

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 8
247Sports: No. 4
ESPN: No. 7
School:Coatesville (Coatesville, PA)
Scouting Summary: “Hiller adds a fifth star from Rivals and ascends into the top 10 of the Rivals300. The 6-foot-5 305-pounder had dominant film as a junior at Coatesville (Pa.) High that is deserving of being ranked as the top interior offensive lineman in 2027 at this juncture. Hiller pairs his ready-to-play size with plus movement skills and elite play strength. He locks on defensive linemen and imposes his will, driving defenders out of the play with regularity. Hiller is a nasty, physical competitor who works to finish blocks with authority. The coordination and hand placement also stand out. Given his advanced skill set, Hiller could be equipped for an early impact at the college level.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

4. OT Mark Matthews

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 3
247Sports: No. 3
ESPN: No. 10
School:St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Scouting Summary: High-upside offensive tackle prospect with top-notch physical and athletic tools for the position. Measured in at 6-foot-6 and around 280 pounds with plus length before his junior season. Added nearly 15 pounds to his frame early on in the offseason before his junior year. Has an ideal build for an offensive lineman with little bad weight and considerable mass in his lower body, helping to create a strong base. Tests as a strong athlete in the combine setting. New to football, first playing the sport as a freshman in high school. Took over the left tackle spot at South Florida powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas as a sophomore. A twitchy mover with outstanding movement skills. Already flashes an effortless kick slide despite playing offensive line for less than one year. Projects as a high-end pass protector. Played defensive line as a freshman before becoming an offensive lineman. Shows impressive competitiveness in the camp setting. Has a basketball background. Will need to continue adding play strength and working on his hand placement. Younger for the cycle, turning 16 years old in April of his sophomore year.

5. RB Kemon Spell – Georgia

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 11
247Sports: No. 7
ESPN: No. 8
School:McKeesport (McKeesport, PA)
Scouting Summary: All-encompassing running back that can win with power and elusiveness on inside and outside runs. 5-foot-9, 200-plus pounds with tremendous twitch and leg drive. Plays with low pad level and an excellent center of gravity in order to deliver blows and take them himself. Has breakaway speed in order to hit the homerun. Ran sub-11 in the 100m during his sophomore track season. Shows the ability to catch the ball away from his frame as a pass catcher. Has all the physical and athletic tools to make an immediate impact at the next level and beyond. Younger prospect for the cycle.

6. WR Monshun Sales

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 9
247Sports: No. 5
ESPN: No. 16
School:Lawrence North (Indianapolis, IN)
Scout’s Take: “Sales touts arguably the highest upside of any wide receiver prospect in the 2027 cycle. He’s a freaky athlete with sub-22.0 second speed in the 200 meters at 6-foot-4.5, 205 pounds. Sales is a vapor trail on Friday nights, showing the ability to take the top off defenses, by way of blistering man coverage on vertical routes. His ball skills have continued to improve, as he showed the ability to make adjustments and win in contested catch situations as a junior. We also like that Sales shows physicality at safety, working as a two-way player at Indianapolis Lawrence North.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

7. CB Joshua Dobson

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 7
247Sports: No. 12
ESPN: No. 5
School:William Amos Hough (Cornelius, NC)
Scouting Summary: Technically refined corner prospect with rare top-end speed and physical build. 6-foot-1, 180-plus pounds with over a 6-foot-5 wingspan. Excellent weight distribution throughout his frame. Can run with anyone on the field. Ran 10.78 in the 100m during his sophomore track season. Explosive and fluid athlete with tremendous change of direction. Very calm footwork and patience in coverage. Does an excellent job locating the football and playing through the receiver’s hands. Needs to continue developing physicality in run support, but is extremely advanced in cover ability.

8. DL Jalen Brewster – Texas Tech

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 1
247Sports: No. 17
ESPN: No. 1
School:Cedar Hill (Cedar Hill, TX)
Scouting Summary: Uber-athletic defensive line prospect with true game-wrecking ability. Measured in at around 6-foot-3, 300 pounds prior to his junior season. Tests as an elite athlete in the combine setting, easily cracking 5.0 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Carries that athleticism over to the field where he has flashes of dominance on Friday nights. Lines up all over the defensive line for Cedar Hill (Texas) while facing top competition. Dangerous pass rusher from any spot. Combines explosive get-off with the movement skills of a much smaller player, carrying elite testing numbers directly onto the field. Consistently collapses pockets and disrupts plays before they develop. Has legitimate game-wrecking moments on film. The quickness to dart into the backfield and the speed to hunt down ball carriers is eye-popping. May not possess premier length. Father was a third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys. Tracking as the top defensive line prospect early on in the 2027 cycle with the upside to be an early NFL Draft pick.

9. WR Easton Royal – Texas

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 5
247Sports: No. 24
ESPN: No. 12
School:Brother Martin (New Orleans, LA)
Scouting Summary: The most dynamic pass-catcher early in the 2027 cycle and a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Measured at around 5-foot-11, 185 pounds prior to his junior season. One of the fastest top prospects in the cycle, running a scintillating 10.3-second mark in the 100 meters as a sophomore. Brings that elite speed to the gridiron—lethal on vertical routes, easily pulling away from defensive backs downfield. Tough to tackle in the open field and will take it the distance if he finds space at the second level. Shows natural shiftiness as a route-runner, giving him the ability to separate at every level. Among the more productive top wide receivers in the 2027 cycle as a junior. Can continue improving his ability to attack catches with his arms extended, but has shown an expanded catch radius with several highlight-reel grabs. One of the youngest top prospects in the class with a late July birthday prior to his freshman season of college football. Athleticism, budding polish, and big-play ability make him one of the top overall playmakers in the cycle with the potential to develop into a first-round NFL Draft pick.

10. OT Kennedy Brown

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 15
247Sports: No. 15
ESPN: No. 2
School:Kingwood (Houston, TX)
Scouting Summary: Explosive and long-armed offensive tackle prospect with rare reach, heavy hands, and the athletic ability to dominate both phases up front. Measured around 6-foot-3, 280 pounds prior to his junior season with a wingspan over 7 feet and 11-inch hands. Tested as a good athlete in the combine setting. Worked at right tackle as a sophomore before moving to left tackle as a junior. Shows excellent striking power, using his length and punch to stun defensive linemen at the point of attack. Moves easily to the second level and looks to finish blocks with effort and physicality. Shorter than the typical top tackle prospect but makes up for it with elite reach and functional strength. Had some lapses in pass protection on junior film after transitioning to the left side, but the athletic traits and power profile remain evident. Projects as one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2027 cycle.

11. QB Elijah Haven

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 96
247Sports: No. 2
ESPN: No. 6
School:Dunham School (Baton Rouge, LA)
The Skinny: “Haven logged visits back to Auburn and Alabama last month, and is hammering out dates to return to both contenders this spring. The same goes for Florida and Kentucky, as the Rivals Industry Ranking No. 1 passer moves closer and closer toward locking in his college decision. Alabama has been the team in pole position after consecutive game-day visits in October and November, and another needle-moving visit back to Tuscaloosa for junior day last month. Haven’s next few visits are expected to be the final stops before locking in his commitment.” — Sam Spiegelman, Rivals National Analyst

12. TE Ahmad Hudson

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 52
247Sports: No. 9
ESPN: No. 22
School:Ruston (Ruston, LA)
The Skinny: “Nebraska is setting the pace in the recruitment of Hudson since his last visit to Lincoln in November. Nebraska was in line to get Hudson back to campus for a basketball game before weather derailed travel plans. Texas A&M and LSU continue to chip away with Hudson, a legacy target for the Tigers. LSU is going to be a threat for Hudson until he signs and are making strides behind the scenes to close the gap here.” — Sam Spiegelman, Rivals National Analyst

13. OT Cooper Hackett – Oklahoma

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 6
247Sports: No. 28
ESPN: No. 27
School:Fort Gibson (Fort Gibson, OK)
Scouting Summary: Hyper-athletic offensive tackle prospect with rare natural movement skills and a frame that points to immense long-term upside as one of the highest-ceiling linemen early in the 2027 cycle. Measured around 6-foot-7, 260 pounds with elite length (arms over 34 inches) and big hands prior to his junior season. Has the frame to add significant mass once in a college strength program. Lines up at right tackle for his high school, where his athletic traits immediately stand out. Moves with rare fluidity for his size and plays with surprising power through his lower half, generating torque and leverage at the point of attack. Shows balance and body control that project well to the next level. Displays loose flexibility and consistently lowers his pads to handle shorter defenders. Plays with a physical edge and looks to finish blocks through the whistle. Further showcases his athleticism as a disruptive defensive end. Doubles as a talented basketball player on the high school and AAU circuit who can run the court and play above the rim. Will need to add considerable mass and adjust to stronger competition at the next level, which could delay early playing time. Possesses an outstanding developmental profile with the big frame, movement skills, and multi-sport coordination that give him the upside to develop into an early-round NFL Draft pick.

14. IOL Albert Simien

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 10
247Sports: No. 34
ESPN: No. 25
School:Sam Houston (Lake Charles, LA)
Scouting Summary: Dominant interior offensive line prospect whose combination of length, functional mobility, and balance makes him one of the top linemen in the 2027 cycle. Measured just under 6-foot-3 and around 270 pounds prior to his junior season with plus length, including 34-inch arms. Lines up at left tackle for his high school, where he consistently controls the line of scrimmage. Dominant run blocker who manipulates defenders with his length, strength, and coordination. Moves easily to the second level and maintains leverage to seal running lanes. Has outstanding lower body flexibility as a mover. Equally effective in pass protection with controlled feet and strong balance in his set. Rarely off-platform and plays with a calm, steady demeanor. Shows up as a better athlete on the field than he tests in combine settings. Does not overwhelm from a stature standpoint and is slightly shorter than ideal for a top interior prospect, but compensates with technique, consistency, and competitive toughness. Well-rounded game, positional versatility, and dominant film make him one of the safest offensive line prospects in the 2027 cycle.

15. EDGE Zyron Forstall

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 146
247Sports: No. 8
ESPN: No. 11
School:IMG Academy (Fla.)
Scouting Summary: Electric pass rusher who is already showing signs of dominance as a high school underclassman. Measured in at 6-foot-3.5, 235 pounds prior to his junior season. Registers as a strong athlete in the combine setting. An apex predator off the edge. Flashes excellent first-step quickness, knifing into the backfield with regularity. Considerable power at the point of attack. Sinks his hips and drives through offensive linemen. Lives behind the line of scrimmage, where he’s an emphatic, physical finisher. Has shown early signs of a pass rush skill set with an explosive spin move. Also lines up as an off-ball linebacker at times. Motor runs white hot. Stalks down ball carriers from sideline to sideline. Totaled nearly 30 tackles for loss and double-digit sacks as a sophomore. Has game-wrecking qualities, forcing fumbles at a high rate. Looks to be one of the top overall prospects in the 2027 cycle early on.

16. WR Jamier Brown – Ohio State

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 48
247Sports: No. 11
ESPN: No. 9
School:Wayne (Wayne, OH)
The Skinny: The five-star pass-catcher has already been committed to Ohio State for over a year. He made his pledge on Nov. 23, 2024 and has shown no signs of backing off since, even with the departure of Brian Hartline. The Buckeyes inked five-star WR Chris Henry Jr. after a long-standing commitment and they’ll now hope to do the same with Brown. He’s the top-ranked prospect in Ohio.

17. SAF Honor Fa’alave-Johnson

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 36
247Sports: No. 19
ESPN: No. 19
School:Cathedral Catholic (San Diego, CA)
The Skinny: “USCOregonMiamiTexasLSU and Notre Dame make up the top six for the two-way standout but the Trojans continue to set the pace in his recruitment for various reasons. Being closer to home and the plan the Trojans have for him stand out plus there is a temptation to put on for the program that’s only two hours away and he grew up loving Reggie Bush.” — Adam Gorney, Rivals National Reporter

18. EDGE Anthony Sweeney

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 51
247Sports: No. 20
ESPN: No. 18
School:Good Counsel (Olney, MD)
The Skinny: The country’s No. 3 EDGE is set for a big spring with trips to Alabama on March 9, South Carolina on March 18, Auburn on March 24, LSU on March 28, and he will wrap up the month at local Maryland on March 31. April trips include Oregon on the 2nd, Texas Tech on the 4th and Texas A&M on the 11th. He already has official visits locked in with the Crimson Tide and Aggies this summer as well.

19. WR Eric McFarland

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 53
247Sports: No. 27
ESPN: No. 15
School:IMG Academy (Fla.)
The Skinny: Ohio State, USC and Texas A&M look to have separated from the pack when it comes to McFarland’s recruitment. He visited the Trojans and Buckeyes in January, will see them again this spring, and is also planning to get to College Station twice to visits the Aggies. Those three are also the only programs to lock in official visits for this summer so far.

20. ATH Xavier Sabb

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 62
247Sports: No. 29
ESPN: No. 17
School:Glassboro (Glassboro, NJ)
The Skinny: Oregon, Miami, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee are set to get the country’s No. 1 athlete on campus this spring, according to his father. The schools he’ll take official visits to are also set: Oregon, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Miami, Notre Dame. As a junior, Sabb had 59 catches for 897 yards and 13 touchdowns with two more scores via kick and punt return and a rushing touchdown. He also picked off four passes. Rivals’ Steve Wiltfong pegs Oregon and Alabama as the top two schools right now with Notre Dame a potential dark horse.

Netflix announces Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquaio rematch at Sphere

The most-purchased boxing match of all time is being run back as more than 11 years since Floyd Mayweather defeated Manny Pacquiao in their first encounter, the world will see them square off once again.

Streaming giant Netflix announced Monday that Mayweather and Pacquiao will square off in a professional rematch that headlines a Sept. 19 event at Sphere in Las Vegas. The announcement did not include key details such as number of rounds or the weight class in which the fight will be contested.

Mayweather defeated Pacquiao by unanimous decision in their 2015 "Fight of the Century" that drew 4.6 million pay-per-view buys.

Mayweather, 48, reportedly agreed to fight Mike Tyson in an exhibition bout in April and announced he'd return to professional competition thereafter. Sitting with a perfect 50-0 record, Mayweather has not competed as a pro since a July 2017 win over Conor McGregor. He's fought in various exhibition fights since, however, against the likes of Logan Paul, John Gotti III and others.

Pacquiao, 47, holds a 62-8-3 record and has been a bit more active in recent years. He's 1-1-1 in his past three professional boxing bouts. The most recent was a majority draw vs. Mario Barrios in July 2025. He's also competed in custom rules bouts in Japan.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. MANNY PACQUIAO

Two of the greatest icons in boxing history will meet again in the first-ever professional boxing match at Sphere in Las Vegas.

Saturday September 19
LIVE globally only on Netflix#MayPac2pic.twitter.com/3i5FtXBzgX

— Netflix (@netflix) February 23, 2026

Unless another combat sports event pops up there before September, Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 will mark just the second at Sphere – and the first boxing card. In September 2024, the UFC held its Noche UFC event at Sphere.

Meanwhile, Netflix continues to bolster its combat sports offerings, with Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov and Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano also on the 2026 schedule.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Netflix announces Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquaio rematch

Everton vs. Man United score, talking points, highlights as Carrick's men aim to bolster Premier League top-four hopes

Bruno Fernandes

Everton vs. Man United score, talking points, highlights as Carrick's men aim to bolster Premier League top-four hopes originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

JUMP TO:


HILL DICKINSON STADIUM, LIVERPOOL — Manchester United can open up a three-point gap in fourth place with victory over Everton on Monday night.

Michael Carrick lost his 100% record as Red Devils boss last time out, when Benjamin Sesko's dramatic injury-time equaliser salvaged a draw at West Ham.

United are fifth on 45 points, level with Chelsea above them and Liverpool below them.

Everton won the reverse fixture 1-0 at Old Trafford despite having Idrissa Gueye sent off for an on-field confrontation with team-mate Michael Keane.

Both men start tonight, with Everton right-back Jake O'Brien serving a suspension following his red card against Bournemouth.

Leny Yoro comes into the United defence in place of Lisandro Martinez, who is sidelined by a minor calf injury.

MORE: Can Man United win the Premier League? Title challenge under Michael Carrick sounds crazy — but possible

Everton vs. Man United final score

2nd HalfGoalscorers
Everton0_
Man United0_

Location: Hill Dickinson Stadium (Liverpool, UK)
Referee: Darren England

Keep track of every game and every goal via SN's live Premier League scoreboard.

Starting lineups:

Everton (4-2-3-1 right to left): 1. Jordan Pickford (GK) – 37. James Garner, 5. Michael Keane, 6. James Tarkowski, 32. Jarrad Branthwaite – 42. Tim Iroegbunam, 27. Idrissa Gueye – 45. Harrison Armstrong, 22. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, 10. Iliman Ndiaye – 11. Thierno Barry

Man United (4-2-3-1 right to left): 31. Senne Lammens — 2. Diogo Dalot, 5. Harry Maguire, 15. Leny Yoro, 23. Luke Shaw — 18. Casemiro, 37. Kobbie Mainoo — 16. Amad Diallo (30. Benjamin Sesko), 8. Bruno Fernandes, 10. Matheus Cunha — 19. Bryan Mbeumo

Everton vs. Man United key moments

51 mins: An opportunity for Mbeumo. Mainoo does well to curl a teasing ball into the Everton box. It spins off Tarkowski's shin and Mbeumo smashes over on the volley. He was off balance but that was maybe a better chance than he made it look.

46 mins: Everton have their best chance of the night so far within a minute of the restart. Dewsbury-Hall lays it off to Armstrong, who had the space and time to find a better finish than the one Lammens held onto unfussily.

4 minsTarkowski off the line! Cunha has a shot blocked and Amad is first to the rebound. Pickford takes some of the pace off it but it's trickling in before his centre-back hacks clear.

Everton vs. Man United reaction

Reaction from Michael Carrick and David Moyes will appear here after the match.

Everton vs. Man United team news

Everton team news

  • David Moyes had all but two first-team players to choose from,with Jack Grealish injured and Jake O'Brien suspended after his red card vs. Bournemouth. 
  • Former United youngster James Garner moved from midfield to right-back, with Jarred Branthwaite shifting across to left-back and Vitalii Mykolenko benched. Centre-back Michael Keane and central midfielder Tim Iroegbunam come into the lineup.

Man United team news

  • It is a similar situation for Michael Carrick with Patrick Dorgu and Matthijs de Ligt his only absentees. 
  • Mason Mount is back in the squad but will have to make do with a spot on the bench. 
  • Benjamin Sesko could start in place of Matheus Cunha after his late heroics against West Ham and Fulham in recent weeks. 

Everton vs. Man United upcoming schedules

Everton upcoming fixtures

DateCompetitionMatchLocation
Sat, Feb. 28Premier LeagueNewcastle vs. EvertonSt James' Park
Tue, Mar 3Premier LeagueEverton vs. BurnleyHill Dickinson Stadium
Sun, Mar 15Premier LeagueArsenal vs. EvertonEmirates Stadium

Man United upcoming fixtures

DateCompetitionMatchLocation
Sun, Mar. 1Premier LeagueMan United vs. Crystal PalaceOld Trafford
Wed, Mar. 4Premier LeagueNewcastlevs. Man UnitedSt James' Park
Sun, Mar. 15Premier LeagueMan United vs. Aston VillaOld Trafford

Real Madrid make long-awaited decision; Liverpool forced to act

Real Madrid make long-awaited decision; Liverpool forced to act
Real Madrid make long-awaited decision; Liverpool forced to act

Liverpool's centre-back headache

Liverpool wanted Schlotterbeck back at the end of 2025 and almost certainly still have him on their shortlist for the summer. The German's contract expires in 2027, with Dortmund essentially forced into selling him before that.

Now, if Real Madrid are to sign Schlotterbeck, Liverpool must look elsewhere. But that could also simply be at home - Ibrahima Konate, after all, is out of contract this summer.

But his options are drying up. Real Madrid won't sign him, it seems, while Bayern Munich have re-signed Dayot Upamecano. Marc Guehi's move to Manchester City rules them out, too.

West Indies smash second-highest T20 World Cup total - Check full list

NEW DELHI: The West Indies produced a batting spectacle for the ages, smashing the second-highest team total in T20 World Cup history during their Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium in the 2026 edition on Monday.

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The Men in Maroon piled up a staggering 254/6 in 20 overs — a tally bettered only by Sri Lanka’s 260/6 against Kenya in the 2007 T20 World Cup. It was just the second instance of a team crossing the 250-run mark in tournament history. The total also became the highest ever recorded against Zimbabwe in T20Is, surpassing India’s 234/2 at Harare in 2024.


West Indies’ 19 sixes equalled the joint-most in a T20 World Cup innings, matching the Netherlands’ effort against Ireland in Sylhet in 2014. It was also their third 250-plus total in T20Is, tying them with Zimbabwe for the joint-second most such scores.

Asked to bat first, West Indies did not have the ideal start. Brandon King fell for nine in the third over to Richard Ngarava, and Shai Hope was dismissed for 14 by Brad Evans as the side reached 55/2 at the end of the powerplay.

Shimron Hetmyer then ignited the innings. He launched two successive sixes off Graeme Cremer before taking 20 runs off Sikandar Raza in the next over to bring up a breathtaking 19-ball half-century — the fastest by a West Indian in T20 World Cup history.

At the halfway mark, West Indies were 115/2 and never looked back. Hetmyer and Rovman Powell stitched together a 122-run stand, with Powell reaching his fifty in 29 balls. Hetmyer’s explosive 85 off 34 balls — studded with seven fours and seven sixes — laid the foundation before he fell.

Despite late wickets, cameos from Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder and an unbeaten 31 off 13 balls by Sherfane Rutherford powered West Indies to a monumental 254/6.


Highest team totals in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup



TeamScoreOversOppositionGroundMatch Date
Sri Lanka260/620.0KenyaJohannesburg14 Sep 2007
West Indies254/620.0ZimbabweWankhede23 Feb 2026
Ireland235/520.0 OmanColombo (SSC)14 Feb 2026
England230/819.4South AfricaWankhede18 Mar 2016
South Africa229/420.0EnglandWankhede18 Mar 2016
Sri Lanka225/520.0OmanPallekele12 Feb 2026
India218/420.0EnglandDurban19 Sep 2007
West Indies218/520.0AfghanistanGros Islet17 Jun 2024
South Africa213/420.0CanadaAhmedabad9 Feb 2026
South Africa211/520.0ScotlandThe Oval7 Jun 2009




Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao to fight in September rematch on Netflix

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao met in Las Vegas in 2015.Photograph: Isaac Brekken/AP

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will face each other on 19 September in Las Vegas in a rematch of one of the biggest fights in boxing history.

Their first fight, in 2015, was generally seen as a tame affair with both fighters past their peaks. September’s bout, which will be streamed live on Netflix, is likely to be of a lower quality. Mayweather and Pacquiao will be 49 and 47 respectively when they fight. Mayweather’s last professional fight, which preserved his unbeaten record, came in 2017, although that was a glorified exhibition against UFC star Connor McGregor. Pacquiao fought for the WBC welterweight championship last year, but is far from the force he was in his prime.

Nevertheless, both fighters built up the rivalry on Monday.

“Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history,” said Pacquiao. “The fans have waited long enough – they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines.”

Mayweather, who won their fight in 2015 on points, was more direct. “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result,” he said.

Whatever the quality of the fight, it will earn the pair tens of millions of dollars. Pacquiao is a national hero in the Philippines while Mayweather forged a lucrative career from his boxing excellence and his willingness to play the villain.

Netflix has put significant resources into live sports in recent years. Its broadcast of Jake Paul v Mike Tyson in 2024 attracted 108 million live global viewers, making it the most-streamed sporting event in history. It has also shown NFL games on Christmas Day and provided live coverage of climber Alex Honnold scaling a Taipei skyscraper last month.

Battle Red Blog readers: How did you become a fan of the Texans?

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Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2 official for the Sphere in Las Vegas, fight streaming on Netflix

LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 02: Floyd Mayweather Jr. throws a left at Manny Pacquiao during their welterweight unification championship bout on May 2, 2015 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are running it back over a decade after their first encounter when the boxers meet in a rematch scheduled on Sept. 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, with the fight airing live on Netflix.

Netflix officially announced the rematch on Monday following an initial report from Ring Magazine. This is the first boxing match held at the Sphere after UFC 306 took place there in 2024.

Widely recognized as two of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers in recent history, Mayweather and Pacquiao seemed like they were on a collision course for years, but never actually met until they finally clashed in 2015. On that night, Mayweather largely dominated the 12-round fight before earning a unanimous decision win.

Now, over 10 years later, the rivals are running it back after Mayweather recently announced plans to return from retirement for another professional fight following a planned exhibition against Mike Tyson that’s also expected in 2026.

Mayweather, 48, hasn’t fought professionally since he finished UFC superstar Conor McGregor in 2017.

As for Pacquiao, he also returned from a long absence when he booked a fight against Mario Barrios this past July. The fight ultimately went to a draw, although many believe that Pacquiao deserved the decision in the 12-round title fight.

Pacquiao has his own exhibition scheduled against Ruslan Provodnikov at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas on April 18.

Following that fight, Pacquiao shifts gears to prepare for the rematch against Mayweather, with the bout airing live on Netflix after their initial matchup became the biggest pay-per-view in history with over 4.4 million buys

“Earlier in my career, I spent weeks in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao’s training camps in Las Vegas and the Philippines,” Gabe Spitzer, Vice President of Sports at Netflix, said in a press release. “It was undeniable that they were the two hardest workers in boxing, and their wins and accolades were a product of that.

“Bringing this rematch to Netflix is a massive ‘full circle’ moment. We’re thrilled to combine their storied rivalry with the immersive technology of Sphere to deliver a landmark sporting event to our members worldwide.”

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 is the latest endeavor for Netflix in combat sports after previously hosting fights such as Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford, and the upcoming MMA fight between former UFC champion Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, which takes place in May.

Heat injury report vs. Bucks: Are Tyler Herro, Norman Powell playing?

Heat injury report vs. Bucks: Are Tyler Herro, Norman Powell playing? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat (31-27) are going for their fourth win in a row on Tuesday as they take on the Milwaukee Bucks (24-31).

Miami has faced injuries all season long, and this same momentum has followed them into their final regular-season push following the All-Star break.

In a list that includes nine players, the Miami Heat provided updates to Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and others.

Tyler Herro (ribs) and Norman Powell (back) among nine listed on Heat injury report vs. Bucks

According to the NBA's injury report, Tyler Herro (ribs), Norman Powell (back), Andrew Wiggins (toe), Pelle Larsson (finger), Dru Smith (calf), and Keshad Johnson (knee) are all listed as available and will play for the Heat on Tuesday.

Herro and Powell have been on minutes restrictions in the games following the All-Star break. Both of them could see a slight increase in playing time moving forward.

Nikola Jovic (back) is listed as doubtful, and Davion Mitchell (illness) is questionable for the contest, but both players travelled with the team with hopes to play, Heat insider Anthony Chiang mentioned.

As for the Bucks, they will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf), Alex Antetokounmpo (G League), and Taurean Prince (neck).

Miami is half a game behind the Philadelphia 76ers for the final spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. 

More Heat news:

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Set September Rematch at Netflix

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao (Tudum)

Get ready for another Fight of the Century, because Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. are set for a rematch this September — airing live on Netflix.

The athletes will hold the first-ever boxing match at the Sphere in Las Vegas on Sept. 19, 11 years after their May 2015 fight. At the time, Mayweather won via unanimous decision in what became the then-highest-grossing fight in boxing history.

“Earlier in my career, I spent weeks in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao’s training camps in Las Vegas and the Philippines,” Netflix vice president of Sports Gabe Spitzer told Tudum on Monday. “It was undeniable that they were the two hardest workers in boxing, and their wins and accolades were a product of that. Bringing this rematch to Netflix is a massive ‘full circle’ moment. We’re thrilled to combine their storied rivalry with the immersive technology of Sphere to deliver a landmark sporting event to our members worldwide.”

The live sporting event will be produced by EverWonder Studio, Hidden Empire and Limitless X Holdings, with promotion from Manny Pacquiao Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and CSI Sports/Fight Sports.

The news comes a week after Netflix set another high-profile fight between MMA stars Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano for May 16.

Mayweather Jr. vs. Pacquiao airs live Sept. 19 on Netflix.

The post Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Set September Rematch at Netflix appeared first on TheWrap.

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Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown

Jun 19, 2024; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics designated hitter Brent Rooker (25) hits an RBI single against the Kansas City Royals during the seventh inning at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Last season, home runs became a common occurrence for the Athletics. They had no trouble barreling up baseballs and putting them well over the fences. 

They finished the 2025 regular season with 219 homers, which ranked them seventh across MLB. Of the six teams ahead of them last season, four of them went on to become postseason clubs. 

So, with a returning core, fans should feel good about where their club stands. They could be in store for another big year offensively.

MORE: MLB analyst puts the spotlight on the Athletics' young arm to step up

Anticipating a crowded leaderboard for the Athletics' home run crown

Last year, the A's had five different players with 20 or more home runs. Lawrence Butler had 21, Tyler Soderstrom had 25, Brent Rooker had 30, Shea Langeliers had 31, and Nick Kurtz led the team with 36. 

Kurtz did not make his debut until late April, so those numbers from him could have been even bigger if he made the Opening Day roster. 

Kurtz would go on to win the AL Rookie of the Year award and is looking to carry that momentum into the 2026 season. However, it may be tough for him to lead the club in homers again, per Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter

"It took just 117 games for Nick Kurtz to launch 36 home runs en route to AL Rookie of the Year honors last season, and with elite batted-ball metrics across the board, that dizzying pace could be sustainable across a full 162-game slate. Shea Langeliers and Brent Rooker also reached 30 homers in 2025, so expect a compelling in-house leaderboard."

It could be a three-man race between Kurtz, Rooker, and Langeliers this year. And if all three can keep the pressure on one another to keep up, the A's might surprise plenty if they can get more consistent on the pitching side of things.

More MLB news:

Florida basketball's NET rankings after win at South Carolina

Florida basketball (21-6, 12-2) won its seventh straight SEC game against Ole Miss on Saturday, leading to a two-spot jump to No. 7 on NET rankings.

Florida started off at No. 33 in the initial NET rankings at the end of November and slowly climbed into the top 10 by early February. The Gators peaked at No. 7 two weeks ago but dipped back to No. 9 during the easy part of the SEC schedule. However, piling up wins has led to a return to Florida's season-high position.

During the 7-game win streak, Florida has won all but one contest (vs. Kentucky) by double digits, averaging a 21.6-point margin of victory. The good news is that most of the wins have come against quality opponents, and other teams have continued to climb up the NET, making the wins stronger.

The Gators are the only SEC team ranked inside the top 15, with Vanderbilt being the next closest at No. 16. Tennessee is just behind at No. 17, while Arkansas and Alabama control the Nos. 20 and 21 spots, respectively.

Florida has three remaining regular-season games against Quadrant 1 teams, including two in the upcoming week, and one Quadrant 3 matchup.

Breaking down Florida’s wins by Quadrant

Before going into Florida’s resume, it’s important to understand how the quadrants are divided. Where a game is played has as much to do with the quadrant as the quality of the opponent. As the rankings change, so does the quality of the wins.

  • Quadrant 1: Home 1-30, Neutral 1-50, Away 1-75
  • Quadrant 2: Home 31-75, Neutral 51-100, Away 76-135
  • Quadrant 3: Home 76-160, Neutral 101-200, Away 135-240
  • Quadrant 4: Home 161-353, Neutral 201-353, Away 241-353

Quadrant 1 Games

Florida is 8-5 in Quadrant 1 games.

Non-conference losses came against No. 2 Duke, No. 3 Arizona and No. 10 UConn. All three are considered very good losses. The Gators' non-conference Q1 win came against No. 35 Miami at a neutral site (Jacksonville), and UF lost to No. 47 TCU. The Hurricanes are firmly in Quadrant 1, while the Horned Frogs recently moved back within the top-50 threshold.

Several of Florida's SEC games have come against Q1 opponents. The Missouri (No. 61) loss on the road remains in Quadrant 1, which is good for the Gators, but Auburn is just outside of the top 30, dropping out of Q1 territory.

The Q1 conference wins came against No. 16 Vanderbilt (road), No. 17 Tennessee (home), No. 21 Alabama (home), No. 34 Georgia (road), No. 42 Texas A&M (road) and No. 71 Oklahoma (road). The most recent came against No. 29 Kentucky at home, which is just within the threshold.

Quadrant 2 Games

In Quadrant 2 games, Florida is 7-1, with wins over No. 34 Georgia, No. 67 LSU — both at home. The Gators beat No. 91 Ole Miss and No. 105 South Carolina during conference play.

The other three Q2 wins came during the non-conference schedule against No. 74 Florida State, No. 78 Providence and No. 87 George Washington, both at a neutral site. The Seminoles recently jumped into Quadrant 2 territory but are right near the threshold.

Florida's lone Quadrant 2 losses came against No. 33 Auburn. The Tigers continue to drift further from returning to Q1 territory.

Quadrant 3 and 4 games

The only Quadrant 3 game Florida played came at home against No. 105 South Carolina. Florida won that by 47 points.

Florida went 5-0 against Q4 teams, beating No. 180 Merrimack, No. 217 Colgate, No. 242 Dartmouth, No. 337 North Florida and No. 335 Saint Francis by an average of 33.6 points. Merrimack is the only one near the Quadrant 3 threshold of No. 160.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida basketball NET ratings after winning at South Carolina

Rams announce fun Robert Woods news a few days after retirement

Robert Woods

Rams announce fun Robert Woods news a few days after retirement originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Rams have had some great players come through their organization during Sean McVay's time with the team, especially at wide receiver.

Puka Nacua is currently dominating alongside Davante Adams, while Cooper Kupp was once a superstar for the Rams. Also previously with the team was Robert Woods. He played five years in Los Angeles and was great.

Woods recently announced his retirement, as the 33-year-old won't suit up anymore in the NFL. But that doesn't mean he's done with the league. The Rams announced some very fun news: Bobby Trees is coming back to the Rams, this time, as a coach.

Rams announce fun Robert Woods coaching news

In the Rams' announced coaching staff for the 2026 season, under the offensive staff, Woods was listed as the "Assistant WRs" coach.

Announcing our 2026 Coaching Staff! 📋 pic.twitter.com/sIOVqbIsNX

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) February 23, 2026

Among the other notable staff additions for the 2026 season are new assistant head coach Kliff Kingsbury and former Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders coach Brian Johnson as a Senior Offensive Assistant to the defense.

It's a new-look staff after having multiple coaches raided this offseason. But, for the Rams, it's shaping up to be a great one. Nate Scheelhaase stayed despite getting head coaching interest and is the new offensive coordinator.

But of the new hires, Woods is by far the most interesting. He didn't retire long ago, but didn't stay away from the NFL for long.

MoreRams' Super Bowl champion WR with two 90-catch seasons announces retirement from NFL

He's now helping the coaching staff as an assistant wide receivers coach. The longtime Rams wide receiver knows a thing or two about good wide receiver play.

Across five seasons and 68 games, Woods caught 367 passes for 4,626 yards and 23 touchdowns. He didn't make a Pro Bowl or an All-Pro, and wasn't healthy during the Super Bowl run, but Woods was one of the staples of the Rams' offense for years.

After a year with the Tennessee Titans and two with the Houston Texans, Woods tried out with the Pittsburgh Steelers but didn't make the roster or play in 2025.

He spent the first four years of his NFL career after being selected 41st overall with the Buffalo Bills. He joined the Rams afterwards, and now, nine years later, is joining the Rams again, this time as a coach.

More Rams news:

Detroit Lions officially announce 2026 coaching staff

The Detroit Lions officially announced their 2026 coaching staff on Monday, confirming multiple reported hires in the process.

The Lions previously announced the hiring of new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who comes over after three years as the Arizona Cardinals' OC and who replaces John Morton.

Detroit's release confirmed that former Giants offensive coordinator and interim head coach Mike Kafka is joining the Lions as its pass game coordinator and that Dan Skipper is joining as an offensive assistant. Kafka was previously reported to be joining in a "high-ranking offensive staff role."

The Lions revealed that Steve Oliver is taking over as tight ends coach after previously serving as assistant offensive line coach.

Defensively, safeties coach Jim O'Neil added the assistant head coach title. Here's the Detroit Lions' full 2026 coaching staff:

Detroit Lions 2026 coaching staff

Lions announce the 2026 coaching staff pic.twitter.com/TEIjIzcpM4

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) February 23, 2026
  • Head coach: Dan Campbell
  • Offensive coordinator: Drew Petzing
  • Defensive coordinator: Kelvin Sheppard
  • Special teams coordinator: Dave Fipp
  • Associate head coach / Wide receivers: Scottie Montgomery
  • Assistant head coach / safeties: Jim O'Neil
  • Quarterbacks: Mark Brunell
  • Running backs: Tashard Choice
  • Run game coordinator / Offensive line: Hank Fraley
  • Assistant wide receivers: Bruce Gradkowski
  • Pass game coordinator: Mike Kafka
  • Offensive quality control: Justin Mesa
  • Tight ends: Steve Oliver
  • Pass game specialist: David Shaw
  • Offensive assistant: Dan Skipper
  • Offensive assistant: Marques Tuiasosopo
  • Defensive assistant: Caleb Collins
  • Senior defensive assistant / Outside linebackers: David Corrao
  • Linebackers: Shaun Dion Hamilton
  • Defensive assistant: August Mangin
  • Run game coordinator / Defensive line: Kacy Rodgers
  • WCF minority coaching assistant / Defensive quality control: Dre Thompson
  • Passing game coordinator / Defensive backs: Deshea Townsend
  • Assistant special teams: Jett Modkins
  • Head strength and conditioning: Josh Schuler
  • Assistant strength and conditioning / Director of sports science: Jill Costanza
  • Assistant strength and conditioning: Cam Josse
  • Assistant strength and conditioning: Thadeus Jackson
  • Chief of staff / Head coach administration: Jesse Giambra

For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a likeFollow Josh on X, @JoshOnLions

This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions officially announce 2026 coaching staff

Rice and Domínguez power Yanks’ win over Pirates.

TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 18: New York Yankees Infielder Ben Rice (22) smiles as he warms up during the spring training workout on February 18, 2026 at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The thing about spring training is that, in the first couple weeks, most of the action involves players that you will not see in the regular season. The first few innings might be something fun, but after that it’s only for those who really crave baseball or are overtly interested in the team’s prospects.

Today, the Yankees got most of their damage done early and by the regulars, as four second-inning walks chased Bubba Chandler and both Ben Rice and Jasson Domínguez delivered clutch run-scoring hits that set the tone for a 6-2 win down in Bradenton. Despite traffic on the bases all day, the Yanks mostly kept the Pirates’ offense at bay, with former first-round pick Ben Hess turning the most heads with a strong outing late in the game.

Chandler got things started with a quick 1-2-3 first, which saw Domínguez strike out, sandwiched by both Ben Rice and Ryan McMahon popping out in foul territory.

Ryan Yarbrough gave up a leadoff single to Oneil Cruz, struck out Nick Gonzales, and jumped ahead of Bryan Reynolds 0-2 before walking him. That would prove to be costly, as after a flyout moved Cruz to third, Marcell Ozuna punched one through the right side for a go-ahead RBI single in the first for the Pirates.

Paul DeJong and Spencer Jones led off the second with walks off the usually frugal Chandler, who battled back to get the next two outs before walking both Zack Short and Payton Henry to force in a run, ending his day. After walking just four batters in 31.1 innings last year, he had four in 1.2 innings today.

Former Yankee farmhand Tyrone Yulie came in to face Rice, who smoked a 100.4 mph, two-run single through the right side. Domínguez joined the party a few pitches later, lofting an RBI double into right field to finish off a four-run second.

Yarbrough settled in after a challenging first, giving up a two-out double to Alika Williams between a pair of strikeouts. The second strikeout of the inning was ABS-assisted, as home plate umpire Macon Hammond originally called ball four to put Cruz on first, but the Yankees challenged, and it was overturned to strike three. Overall, not a bad day for Yarbrough, who struck out four in two innings.

Another former Yankee, Dennis Santana, tossed a scoreless third around an infield single by Max Schuemann and a walk by Short. Paul Blackburn took over for Yarbrough in the third and got into immediate trouble with an infield single and a walk. After threatening to walk the bases loaded with nobody out, Blackburn induced a 3-2 forceout before a clear 5-4-3 double play ended the third.

Gregory Soto pitched a 1-2-3 fourth for the Pirates. Blackburn got into more trouble with back-to-back singles in the bottom half. Fortunately, he pulled out another Houdini act, retiring three straight batters, capping it off with a filthy 2-2 curveball to Cruz to end the inning.

Kyle Nicolas retired the middle of the Yankees’ order quickly, including a strikeout of Spencer Jones, in the fifth. Dylan Coleman continued his bullpen audition in the bottom half and got into trouble, but the Pirates stranded two for the third straight inning.

The Yankees threatened to break the game open in the sixth off of Hunter Barco with two walks and a hit by pitch to load the bases, but Domínguez (batting from the right side) struck out, and McMahon slapped a liner the other way that was snagged by new third baseman Jhonny Severino.

Hess made his first appearance of the spring in the sixth as the regulars were removed from the game, and he was impressive, striking out Nick Cimillo and Omar Alfonzo in a quick, nine-pitch inning. Hess got up to 95 mph on his fastball and got three whiffs, including one on a looping curveball to retire Alfonzo.

The Yankees got an extra run in the seventh. Yanquiel Fernandez walked and stole second, Marco Luciano walked against pitcher Kyle Larsen (no, not the NASCAR driver), and Ali Sanchez reached on a throwing error by Severino that allowed Fernandez to score, making it 5-1 into the seventh inning stretch. Hess went back to work and flirted with trouble with a walk and a single allowed, but he struck out the side around it in the seventh.

Miguel Palma, a soft-hitting depth catcher signed away from the Astros this offseason, smacked a leadoff homer off of former Tigers reliever Beau Burrows in the eighth. George Lombard Jr. got his first at-bat of the game later that inning and walked, but was stranded.

After two strong innings, Hess faltered to start the bottom of the eighth, plunking Severino, allowing an RBI double to Cimillo to cut it to 6-2, and walking Alfonzo. He settled down with a 6-4-3 double play and got out of the inning by retiring former Yankee farmhand Brian Sanchez. That wrapped up a three-inning outing from Hess, who impressive on the whole.

Luciano’s leadoff walk in the ninth was stranded by Brandan Bidois, while Geoff Gilbert came on for the Yanks and got the final three outs, improving the spring record to 2-2.

The Yankees are back in action tomorrow, taking on the Blue Jays in Dunedin at 1:07. Will Warren is scheduled to make his first spring start, while Toronto’s starter is to be determined. The game will be available on the Gotham Sports App and MLB Network (out-of-market only).

Box Score

Rams hire former WR Robert Woods as assistant coach for 2026

Former Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Robert Woods retired from the NFL last week, signing a one-day contract with the team to make it official. He won’t be without a job in 2026, though. He’s already taking on a new role, this time as a coach.

The Rams announced their staff for 2026, and Woods has been hired as the team’s assistant wide receivers coach. It’s his first opportunity to coach, taking on this new venture less than a week after retiring as a player.

Woods has always been a favorite in Los Angeles, so it’s fitting that his first job will be with the team that signed him as a free agent in 2017. He’s from Gardena, Calif., went to USC and played five years with the Rams, winning one Super Bowl.

He played for Los Angeles from 2017-2021, winning a ring in his final season with the team. Woods was traded to the Titans in 2022 and finished his career with the Texans in 2023 and 2024. He did not play this past season after being cut by the Steelers in August.

Woods, 33, finished his NFL career with 367 catches, 4,626 yards and 23 touchdown catches, playing 12 seasons in the league after being a second-round pick by the Bills in 2013.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: LA Rams hire former NFL WR Robert Woods to coaching staff

Bishop Montgomery (Calif.) reveals 2026 football schedule

(Courtesy: Bishop Montgomery Football / @bmhsgridiron on Instagram)

High school football schedules for the 2026 season are coming out one-by-one out of every state around the country and one that is a breeding ground for college prospects is the Golden State, with a number of squads finalizing their fall slates.

One of the high school football programs that became very well known throughout the course of the 2025 campaign was the Bishop Montgomery Knights (Calif.). The Knights went through a tumultuous season, finishing winless at 0-9 and having fired longtime previous head coach Ed Hodgkiss after the Knights were forced to forfeit their Week 1 matchup against Mater Dei for not having enough players.

The Knights begin a new era under the watch of first-year head coach Oscar McBride, who led Murrieta Mesa (Calif.) from  0-9 in 2021 to winning a CIF title. During his time at Murrieta Mesa, McBride compiled an overall record of 29-21, which included a 10-5 mark in 2024. On Monday, Bishop Montgomery announced their official 2026 football schedule.

2026 Bishop Montgomery Football Schedule! Knight Nation we are proud to announce our upcoming schedule. Go Knights Football! #Rise#Together#WeRiseTogether#DestinationBishop@ask_oscar@knights_bmhspic.twitter.com/7Ol9GniUFc

— BMHS Football (@BMHSGridiron) February 23, 2026

The full Bishop Montgomery 2026 football schedule can be seen below, with all games schedule for 7 p.m. Pacific Time.

Bishop Montgomery Football 2026 Schedule

Aug. 21 — at Segerstrom
Aug. 28 — Bell Gardens
Sep. 4 — atSimi Valley
Sep. 11 — at John Muir
Sep. 18 —Santiago
Oct. 2 — St. Pius X – St. Matthias Academy
Oct. 9 — at Paraclete
Oct. 16 —Cathedral
Oct. 23 — St. Francis
Oct. 30 — at St. Paul

The Knights ended this past season ranked No. 640 in the final 2025 California High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Bishop Montgomery High School

Founded in 1957, Bishop Montgomery High School (BMHS) is a co-educational Catholic institution located in Torrance, California. The school offers a college-preparatory curriculum rooted in Catholic identity, challenging students to reach their potential through rigorous academics, faith formation, and diverse extracurricular activities. The 24-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a newly renovated STEAM center, media center, and athletic amenities. With an average class size of 24 and an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, BMHS fosters a supportive learning environment. The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its 99%-100% college matriculation rate and a global alumni network of over 17,800 members.

How to Follow California High School Football

For high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Golden State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the country.

Warriors get another injury blow ahead of upcoming back-to-back

Kristaps Porzingis didn't play in the Golden State Warriors' win over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, Feb. 22. The veteran big man reportedly woke up feeling sick, informing head coach Steve Kerr via text. Porzingis' absence was certainly a blow for the Warriors, especially as he'd made his debut for the franchise in their previous outing, a 121-110 loss to the Boston Celtics.

Now, it would appear that Porzingis is set to miss at least two more games. According to The Athletic's Anthony Slater, the veteran big man has not travelled with the team to New Orleans and, therefore, will not be available when Golden State faces off against the Memphis Grizzlies on the second night of a back-to-back.

"Kristaps Porzingis did not make the trip to New Orleans with the Warriors. It’s a quick two-gamer with a back-to-back in Memphis," Slater reported via X. "This would indicate Porzingis (out with illness yesterday) is expected to miss at least the next two games. Draymond Green did make the trip."

Porzingis isn't the only member of Golden State's roster that's dealing with injury issues. Kerr's team was also without Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Seth Curry, and Draymond Green for their game against the Denver Nuggets. However, Porzingis' health issues will continue to be a concern until he can string a sizeable run of games together. Furthermore, the Warriors will need Porzingis at his best if they're going to make any noise during the playoffs.

Without Porzingis in the rotation, Al Horford may keep his spot in the starting lineup. And considering the impact he made against Denver, that could be the right call.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors get another injury blow ahead of upcoming back-to-back

Proposed Dodgers blockbuster trade deadline deal sees Los Angeles complete Yoshinobu Yamamoto-led super rotation with $300 million two-time Cy Young

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Proposed Dodgers blockbuster trade deadline deal sees Los Angeles complete Yoshinobu Yamamoto-led super rotation with $300 million two-time Cy Young originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Dodgers already made every MLB fan that wasn’t their own groan this offseason when they landed Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz to add to their already stacked roster. However, they have a chance at the trade deadline to make everyone lose their minds.

Fansided’s Mark Powell proposes if the Detroit Tigers are worse than .500 by August 1st, they could make a deal that everyone’s predicting to happen, sending Tarik Skubal to Los Angeles.

MORE: Mets predicted to reunite with $1.4 million All-Star, would provide infield depth behind Francisco Lindor

“Detroit signed Framber Valdez and Justin Verlander over the last two weeks. In doing so, the Tigers tried to appease their fanbase. Scott Harris is willing to go on one last run with Skubal, even if it means losing draft capital. And I really can't blame them! The Tigers are too good to trade Skubal for prospects, and they'd never receive full value for him anyway. Instead, they'll likely settle for a compensatory pick. However, if the Tigers are hovering around .500 at the deadline, which isn't out of the realm of possibility, expect the Dodgers to be the favorites. No, LA doesn't need Skubal, but adding the best pitcher in baseball for a World Series pitch is incredibly enticing. At that point. Skubal won't be all that expensive,” Powell wrote.

In 2025, Skubal won his second Cy Young in a row, finishing with a 13-6 record, a 2.21 ERA, 241 Ks, and a WHIP of 0.891 in 195 innings pitched. He would become the ace of an already loaded rotation, and probably would give the Dodgers the best rotation in MLB history. 

MORE: Proposed Yankees blockbuster trade sees New York reunite with $67 million two-time All-Star ace, provide rotation depth to assist Max Fried

Skubal is projected to receive an eight-year, $300 million deal after this season, so he could be a rental for the Dodgers. However, with their love of deferrals, they could find themselves keeping him long-term as well.

Dodgers fans better hope and pray that the Tigers’ season goes up in flames, and every other MLB fan better hope the opposite.

MORE MLB NEWS

Proposed Tigers blockbuster trade sees Detroit land $340 million three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger as successor to Miguel Cabrera

Twins predicted to be dark horse for $61 million All-Star, former Cy Young candidate to replace Pablo Lopez

Padres predicted to be dark horse candidate for $9 million three-time Cy Young, two-time World Series champion ace to replace Dylan Cease

Patriots release RB Antonio Gibson

Running back Antonio Gibson's time is up in New England.

The Patriots announced Gibson's release on Monday afternoon. Gibson appeared in five games for the team in 2025 before missing the rest of the season with a torn ACL.

Gibson's release clears over $3 million in cap space for the Patriots. He will still account for $1 million in dead money.

Gibson ran 25 times for 106 yards and a touchdown while also returning a kickoff for a touchdown in his five appearances during the regular season. He had 120 carries for 538 yards and a touchdown during the 2024 season.

Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson remain the top two backs for New England.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2 fight details: Date, location announced for rematch of veteran boxers

Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao

Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2 fight details: Date, location announced for rematch of veteran boxers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Eleven years ago, the fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao was a can't-miss event between two generational boxers. Plenty has changed since Mayweather's win over Pacquiao, but the two might not be done with each other yet.

Mayweather is already venturing back into the ring with an exhibition fight against Mike Tyson in April, which will mark the veteran's ninth exhibition fight since retiring from professional boxing in 2017. 

Pacquiao, meanwhile, fought professionally in 2025 for the first time in four years, ending a bout with Mario Barrios in a draw.

Mayweather and Pacquiao have each spent time in retirement, but fans are set to get another chance to see them in the ring together. Here's what you need to know about a potential Mayweather vs. Pacquiao rematch.

MORE:Details on Floyd Mayweather's exhibition bout with Mike Tyson

Are Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao fighting?

Mayweather and Pacquiao will fight on Sept. 19 in Las Vegas, Netflix announced. Netflix will exclusively stream the bout.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. MANNY PACQUIAO

Two of the greatest icons in boxing history will meet again in the first-ever professional boxing match at Sphere in Las Vegas.

Saturday September 19
LIVE globally only on Netflix#MayPac2pic.twitter.com/3i5FtXBzgX

— Netflix (@netflix) February 23, 2026

Mayweather and Pacquiao, the greatest fighters of their generation, fought in a highly-anticipated bout on May 2, 2015, with Mayweather winning by unanimous decision. Mayweather would only fight professionally two more times before retiring to exhibitions in 2017.

Here are more details on the fight.

MORERanking the best 25 boxers under 25

When will Mayweather and Pacquiao fight?

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 is set for Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, Netflix announced.

Mayweather and Pacquiao each have exhibition fights lined up for April, with Mayweather fighting Tyson and Pacquiao taking on Ruslan Provodnikov.

Where will Mayweather and Pacquiao fight?

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 will be held at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

The first bout between Mayweather and Pacquiao took place at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, years before the Sphere was even built. 

MORE:Why did Terence Crawford retire?

Is Mayweather vs. Pacquiao a professional fight?

Despite Mayweather being nearly nine years into retirement from professional boxing, a second fight with Pacquiao is expected to be professional, rather than an exhibition.

Both Mayweather and Pacquiao are set to fight in exhibition matches in April, but a bout with Pacquiao would be Mayweather's first professional fight since his win over Conor McGregor in 2017 and put his undefeated record to the test. Pacquiao's last professional fight came in 2025.

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao weight class

The weight class for Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 isn't yet clear. The two greats faced off for the world welterweight title in 2015, but Mayweather, who will be 49 at the time of the upcoming fight, weighed in at close to 161 pounds for his most recent exhibition fight in 2024. The maximum welterweight limit is 147 pounds.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, came in at 146.8 pounds for his fight with Barrios in 2025, meaning he isn't far from the light middleweight and middleweight class.

Shohei Ohtani’s Healthy Offseason Spells Trouble for MLB

Was the Shohei Ohtani of the last two seasons just a prelude?

After his first healthy offseason with the Los Angeles Dodgers, it’s possible the best player in baseball could be even better.

Jack Harris of the California Post sat down with the Foul Territory show to discuss the Dodger, noting that when it comes to the two-way superstar, “nothing’s going to hold him back physically.”

“He was past the Tommy John recovery. He was past the shoulder surgery that he had last offseason, and it’s allowed him to come into camp in as good of a spot this early on as the Dodgers have seen him,” he said.

Team is Optimistic but Careful Regarding Ohtani

Ohtani is healthy, but he’s still coming off a grueling World Series run and is playing in the World Baseball Classic in March.

Though he’s likely not pitching in the WBC, Ohtani will still participate as designated hitter.

Feb 13, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani (17) throws in the bullpen during spring training camp. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

With him playing such a big role at the plate for Japan and the Dodgers, the team is hoping to keep him fresh for the playoffs late in the season by easing him into the pitching this year.

Thus far, the team has been reticent to definitively declare that Ohtani will pitch without restrictions on Opening Day.

“You’re going to see them be still a little more methodical with how he’s used over the course of the year, given the two-way workload and the fact that they want him to be as fresh as possible come October, but this is as close as we’re going to see back to a full-time two-way Shohei Ohtani,” Harris said.

As for what that could mean when Ohtani does take the mound, Harris said he expects shorter outings, at least at first.

“My guess is he’s not going to be fully ramped up for six or seven innings the first couple times he takes the mound this year as a pitcher,” Harris said.

Ohtani Won’t Pitch in WBC — Or Will He?

Ohtani isn’t supposed to pitch in the WBC at all, though he’s admitted there’s one situation that might force his hand.

If a repeat of his face off with former Angels teammate Mike Trout were to magically occur, he’d be tempted.

“Yeah, if Trout is coming up at the end, I might go in,” he said.

Fortunately for Dodgers fans, Trout is going to miss the WBC due to insurance issues.

Alabama football announces 2028 season opener vs. Sun Belt program

The Alabama Crimson Tide have officially announced their opening opponent for the 2028 college football season.

Per an announcement Monday, Alabama will officially open the 2028 college football at home inside Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium, doing so against the Georgia State Panthers. That game will be played Saturday, Sept. 2, in Tuscaloosa, with the start time and TV network announced at a later date.

Alabama and Georgia State have met only twice before, both of which have been Crimson Tide wins in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide won 63-7 back in 2010 during the first-ever meeting, with Alabama also winning the second in 2013, 45-3.

Georgia State is a long-time member of the Sun Belt conference, and led by head coach Dell McGee, are coming off a 2025 season that saw the Panthers finish 1-11 overall (0-8 Sun Belt). Since making the move to the FBS level prior to the 2013 season, Georgia State has recorded zero 10-win seasons, with their best campaign an 8-5 finish back in 2021.

Circle it. ‘28 home opener 🏈 pic.twitter.com/Zbg7L0HSNY

— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) February 23, 2026

Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football to host Georgia State Panthers in 2028 season opener

Florian Wirtz Injury Estimate: Slot Optimistic

Florian Wirtz had been set to start in Liverpool’s tricky match against bogey team Nottingham Forest on Sunday, but was replaced by Curtis Jones after an issue in the warm-up. Speaking after the fact, Liverpool boss Arne Slot clarified that the German attacker didn’t so much pick up an injury as feel a bit off — and Slot and his team chose not to risk him.

Slot is optimistic about Wirtz’s ability to feature in upcoming matches:

“We don’t think it is very serious, but he felt his back too much during the warm-up to start.

“He wasn’t able to be 100 per cent or even close to 100 per cent. I think after being in this league for six, seven or eight months, he now understands no matter how good you are on the ball, you need to be 100 per cent at this level.

“So, we decided not to play him. We hope and expect he will be able to be with us again next week but you never know how things work out.”

Reds will hope this holds true, as Liverpool were decidedly not inspiring when lacking one of the most creative players thus far this season. As the Reds finished in the top eight of the Champions League Group Stage they mercifully have no mid-week game this week, next facing West Ham United at home on Saturday.

Slot and his team will hopefully have Wirtz back to “100 per cent” by the side’s next outing. Though most things went Liverpool’s way in the weekend’s fixtures — and with Manchester United currently drawing away to Everton — a very strong finish to the season is required to qualify for top-level European football next season, and a healthy Florian Wirtz will go a long way in aiding that strong finish.

Question Time: Mad Max

Oct 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31) reacts in the dugout after being relieved in the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game three of the 2025 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The birds are singing, the snow is melting, and pitchers are getting hurt. Spring is here. The Jays have already lost Bowden Francis for the season. Shane Bieber is delayed, and now it sounds like Yimi Garcia will be as well. The Jays wisely invested in depth this winter. Cody Ponce was an interesting signing to shore up the back of the rotation, and Jose Berrios is still here after a winter of trade speculation. Eric Lauer is here too, and wants a starting job. He’s not in the top 5 right now, but he has a case and he’d crack most rotations in the league. The depth in AAA looks thin if you don’t think Ricky Tiedemann is a starter in 2026 (we’ll see about long term), but Jake Bloss should be working his way back by June. All of which is to say that the Jays have some shuffling to do but right now look set to field a very good five man rotation with some depth.

Enter Max Scherzer. The last time the future first ballot hall of famer walked off a mound, he’d held the fearsome Dodgers offence to one run over four and a third to start game 7 of the World Series, leaving with a lead and having out-dueled Shohei Ohtani. If the Jays had held on, it would be the crowning moment of one of the best pitching careers of his generation. But they didn’t, and so Scherzer wants to give the storybook ending one more try. It seems like if he pitches in 2026 it will be for the Blue Jays, and repots are that the talks are heating up.

For all his past greatness, he had a 5.19 ERA in the regular season last year and while the stats suggest he deserved a little better he’s firmly a #5 in 2026. As it is, he probably doesn’t crack the starting five even before Shane Bieber’s slow ramp up is completed. It’s hard to imagine him accepting a bullpen role. On the other hand, you never have enough pitching, and he brings a ton of leadership and (arguably psychotic) intensity to the clubhouse. My questions are: will the Blue Jays end up signing Scherzer, and should they?

Lindsey Vonn says surgery saved leg from being amputated after Olympic crash

Lindsey Vonn’s horrific leg injury was even more serious than originally realized.

The American skier said surgery saved her left leg from being amputated after she crashed during her downhill race on Feb. 8 at the Milano Cortina Olympics.

The complicated injury left Vonn with compartment syndrome in her leg, she said Monday in a four-minute Instagram video.

“Compartment syndrome is when you have so much trauma to one area of your body that there’s too much blood, and it gets stuck and it basically crushes everything,” Vonn said.

The condition required Team USA physician Dr. Tom Hackett to perform a fasciotomy in which he “filleted” Vonn’s leg open and “let it breathe,” she said.

Hackett had made the trip to Italy only because Vonn was attempting to compete on a torn ACL in her left knee — an injury she suffered days earlier when she crashed during her final Olympic warmup race.

“If I hadn’t torn my ACL, Tom wouldn’t have been there,” Vonn said Monday. “He wouldn’t have been there to save my leg.”

The Olympic crash left Vonn with a complex tibia fracture, as well as a broken right ankle that she revealed Monday.

After spending nearly two weeks in the hospital, Vonn moved to a hotel but is still unable to go home.

“It has been quite the journey and, by far, the most extreme and painful and challenging injury I’ve ever faced in my entire life,” Vonn said.

Vonn, 41, is a three-time Olympic medalist, including winning gold in the downhill at the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

She retired after the 2018 Olympics, but following multiple surgeries — including a partial knee replacement — Vonn made a surprise return to skiing in 2024.

This year’s Winter Games marked Vonn’s fifth trip to the Olympics. During Monday’s video, Vonn was moved to tears as she reflected on her comeback coming up short.

“I’ll be in a wheelchair for a while,” Vonn said, adding, “I hope I can be on crutches in a little bit, but we’ll see. … But I’m gonna get right to work on rehab and see what I can do, and take it one step at a time.”

American teammate Breezy Johnson won the downhill event after Vonn’s crash. That was one of 12 gold medals won by Team USA.

“Watching Team USA dominate has been really uplifting,” Vonn said.

____

‘He’s incredible’ — Luis Díaz explains Vincent Kompany’s role in his transfer to Bayern Munich

STUTTGART, GERMANY - AUGUST 16: Vincent Kompany, Head Coach of Bayern Munich is embraced by Luis Diaz of Bayern Munich following the Franz-Beckenbauer-Supercup 2025 match between VfB Stuttgart and FC Bayern München at MHPArena on August 16, 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by S. Mellar/FC Bayern via Getty Images) | FC Bayern via Getty Images

When a club attempts to sign a player, who the manager they will be working with and the subsequent discussions with the player are very important factors in convincing a player to join. When Bayern Munich worked to convince Luis Díaz to sign from Liverpool FC, Vincent Kompany was the manager sent to convince Díaz to sign. Given the Colombian only knew Kompany from his one season in the Premier League with Burnley, which ended in relegation, it might have initially seemed that Kompany was not going to be a positive aspect for him.

But the former Porto player saw beyond just that one season and was quickly impressed by Kompany.

He told me what he thought of me, what he wanted from me, and what role he saw me playing in the team,” Díaz said to Kerry Hau of his phone call with Kompany before the move to Bayern, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “That was a huge help. Even after the transfer was official and I arrived here, we sat down and talked about a lot of things – about football, but also about personal and family matters. And that’s an important point. I feel very comfortable with him as my coach. That’s why I think I’ll develop even more than I already have. You learn a lot about football from him. He likes intensity, he likes character – everyone defends, everyone attacks. All those things that are important for a team to work well. And as a person, he’s truly incredible. He pays attention to the little things, he cares about you. He even asks questions like, ‘How’s your family? Do you need any help? Just get in touch if you need anything.’ He’s incredible; there’s nothing more to say about him as a person. And I know he can achieve so much more than he already has. Kompany has been very important for me and for my ability to integrate so quickly and easily here.”

Kompany may not have had the best CV before his move to Bayern but he clearly has a great character and a good footballing philosophy. Often, if the player is willing to engage in a conversation, that is enough.

Juninho calls up Brazil Under-20s for Liga Evolução Beach Soccer final

Juninho calls up Brazil Under-20s for Liga Evolução Beach Soccer final
Juninho calls up Brazil Under-20s for Liga Evolução Beach Soccer final

Juninhi, coach of the Under-20 Beach Soccer National Team, has announced the squad for the final of the Conmebol Liga Evolución 2025Credits: Fabio Loayza/VSN

Coach Juninho has called up the Brazilian Under-20 Men's Beach Soccer National Team for the final of the CONMEBOL Liga Evolución 2025, which will take place on March 7 and 8, in Guarujá-SP.

In the list of ten athletes, the coach maintained the core of the team that won the North Zone group, a title that secured Brazil's place in the tournament's final against Paraguay, the winner of the South Zone group.

“We are going to play this final very focused on bringing the title back to Brazil. Once again, we will have our preparation at Granja Comary, with all the facilities for our players, which will be very beneficial. I would like to thank the CBF Beach Soccer management, Dr. Mauro Carmélio, Lavoisier Freire, and, of course, President Samir Xaud, for all the support to our sport. Now we must prepare well and fight on the field,” said Juninho.

The Liga Evolución brings together the adult and under-20 teams of Brazil and Paraguay, who will play one match in each category on Saturday (7) and Sunday (8). The champion country of the 2025 edition will be the one that accumulates the most points at the end of the four matches. Brazil won the first four editions, in 2017, 18, 19, and 22. The last title was shared with Paraguay, who also won in 2023 and 24.

Training with the complete delegations will begin next Saturday (28), at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (RJ).

Check out the call-ups:

Under-20 Beach Soccer National Team Call-up for the CONMEBOL Liga Evolución 2025Credits: CBF Disclosure

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Denis Shapovalov explains how his wife has been helping improve his tennis recently

Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images
Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images

Denis Shapovalov has explained how his wife, Mirjam Bjorklund, has helped improve his game this year.

Shapovalov is a former world number 10, and reached the semifinals of Wimbledon in 2021.

However, the Canadian has struggled to consistently recreate this form since then, with Shapovalov being ranked outside the top 20 since January 2023.

After reaching the semifinals in Dallas, Shapovalov has travelled to the tournament in Dubai, where he lives with Bjorklund, and explained how she has been helping his tennis this year.

Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images
Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

Denis Shapovalov reveals how wife Mirjam Bjorklund has been helping his tennis

Shapovalov and Bjorklund have been a couple since 2019, with the pair getting married in September last year.

Bjorklund is a former tennis player herself, and Shapovalov has told Tennis TV how she has been helping his game after he stopped working with coach Mikael Tillstrom.

“Yeah, to be honest I’m a bit kind of in the transition phase,” said Shapovalov. “I stopped working with Mikael a couple of weeks ago and she’s been helping me on court since then, especially while I’ve been here in Dubai. So yeah, she knows my game really, really well.

“So yeah, she was a player herself, she’s got a great tennis knowledge and yeah she’s…we are always communicating about my game and talking about it, so it’s easy for her to step in and help me out.

“I think she’s been great, I think a few things she’s given me over these last couple of weeks have been great and they helped in Dallas, so they can help me here as well…Yeah definitely a secret weapon both on and off the court. She’s a great wife, great person, so I’m very lucky in that.”

Shapovalov will have Bjorklund in his coaching box for his next tournament at the Dubai Tennis Championships, where he is playing Pablo Carreno Busta in the first round.

What did Mirjam Bjorklund achieve in her tennis career?

While Shapovalov is the more high-profile of the two, Bjorklund was also a WTA Tour player until last year.

Bjorklund achieved a career-high ranking of world number 123 in 2022, and won 10 ITF titles in her career.

The Swede also collected eight WTA tour-level wins, which includes Bjorklund collecting her only top 30 win against Elise Mertens in Bogota.

Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

Bjorklund never won a Grand Slam main draw match, but she did qualify for a major tournament on every surface.

After dealing with injuries in recent years, Bjorklund announced that she was retiring from tennis last year at just 27 years old, stating that she wanted to explore other avenues in life.

Since calling a day on her career, Bjorklund has been helping her husband Shapovalov, which appears to be working well according to him.

“A performance I’ll never forget” – Pep Guardiola singles out Manchester City star for special Newcastle praise

“A performance I’ll never forget” – Pep Guardiola singles out Manchester City star for special Newcastle praise
“A performance I’ll never forget” – Pep Guardiola singles out Manchester City star for special Newcastle praise

Pep Guardiola has credited one member of his Manchester City team for putting in a memorable performance against Newcastle on Saturday night.

The City manager was full of admiration for the effort shown by his side during a tense 2-1 victory that kept their Premier League title challenge up against Mikel Arteta’s firmly alive over the weekend.

While goals once again proved decisive, Pep Guardiola was keen to draw attention to the off-the-ball sacrifices from a number of his players that underpinned the result on an emotionally charged evening.

Played out in front of a lively crowd at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s win saw them close the gap on leaders Arsenal, but only after withstanding sustained pressure from a determined Newcastle side who tested Guardiola’s team until the final whistle.

Speaking to reporters after the clash, Guardiola was quizzed on the defensive contributions in particular offered by star striker Erling Haaland during the 2-1 win.

“I would prefer [him] don’t defend but when there is long balls and Erling’s at striker and has to go to central defender with [Dan] Burn and Joelinton at the end, all the pace in behind and the people – he had to help us,” said Guardiola.

The City manager continued, “Listen, I’m not a big fan to put Erling to defend but he helped us and I know after that how the people hugged him and celebrated [with] him and said their gratitude for helping us because Newcastle allowed us to do that, and only I’m a little bit sad for him because there are a lot of actions that we could’ve made the last pass to him and we didn’t find him.

“And it’s difficult for him to run, run, run, and fight, and they don’t give the balls to score goals. But sometimes the game is like that and he’s an incredibly generous player. Today is a performance I’ll never forget what Erling has done for us.”

Haaland also offered contribution at the other end of the field too, providing a crucial right-footed cross for Nico O’Reilly to head home, doubling Manchester City’s advantage in the first-half of the clash.

Quizzed on whether support from Omar Marmoush up front would allow for Erling Haaland to find himself in more crossing positions, Guardiola said, “No. Football, in the final third they play, but I want someone to cross to him! It’s what I want.

“But it was incredible movement, four players in the box. It was an incredible assist. One colleague of yours told me in a flash interview that he has made a lot, a lot of assists already this season. So the numbers are unbelievable and the work rate and many things.

“I’m really pleased. Sometimes I’m critical of him, but today I said, ‘Guy, without you, it would not be possible’. Erling has been outstanding today, outstanding.”

The praise capped off a night where Manchester City were required to dig deep as Nico O’Reilly’s two first-half goals ultimately proved enough, but the visitors ensured Guardiola’s side were under constant strain after the break.

For Pep Guardiola, Erling Haaland’s performance in all areas of the pitch embodied the collective mentality needed from the entire Manchester City squad in the season’s defining moments.

With the Premier League title race intensifying and every single point carrying even greater weight, such selfless displays may yet prove just as valuable as goals as Manchester City continue their pursuit of silverware.

Premier League referees announced: Matchweek 28

Premier League referees announced: Matchweek 28
Premier League referees announced: Matchweek 28

The officials for Matchweek 28 of the Premier League have been announced, and Playmaker are here to quickly run you through the referees for each game.

As ever, we have summarised the stats regarding which officials have taken charge of most top flight games this season, and which have dished out the most cards!


MOST PREMIER LEAGUE GAMES IN 2025/26 (Top 5 only)

  • Anthony Taylor 22 Games
  • Michael Oliver 21 Games
  • Chris Kavanagh 18 Games
  • Peter Bankes 18 Games
  • Samuel Barrott 16 Games

MOST BOOKINGS IN 2025/26 (Top 5 only)

  • Anthony Taylor 81 Yellow Cards
  • Peter Bankes 75 Yellow Cards
  • Stuart Attwell 75 Yellow Cards
  • Chris Kavanagh 66 Yellow Cards
  • Robert Jones 62 Yellow Cards

MOST RED CARDS IN 2025/26 (Top 5 only)

  • Peter Bankes 3 Red Cards
  • Thomas Kirk 3 Red Cards
  • John Brooks 3 Red Cards
  • Stuart Attwell 2 Red Cards
  • Darren England 2 Red Cards

Vikings Mock Draft Monday heading into the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine

Well, Vikings fans, it's time for another Mock Draft Monday. We are back on track to go over the NFL Draft with us fast approaching the NFL Scouting Combine that starts this week.

The best way to go over and process changes to the NFL Draft, of course, is to conduct another Mock Draft Monday. The Vikings now have the 18th pick in the draft, which is finalized, so we will now be able to properly gauge what players could be there for him.

So with that, let's go over the latest mock draft of the offseason for the Vikings.

Round 1: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida

Round 2: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Round 3: Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska

Round 3: Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)

Round 5: Drew Shelton, OL, Penn State

Round 6: Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia

Round 6: Andre Fuller, CB, Toledo

Round 6: TJ Guy, Edge, Michigan

Round 7: Eli Heidenreich, FB, Navy

Round 7: Patrick Payton, Edge, LSU

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings 2026 Mock Draft Monday heading into the NFL Scouting Combine

Jusuf Nurkić reportedly out for season with nose surgery as season-ending injuries pile up for Jazz

The Utah Jazz are running out of players to put in their front court. Utah Jazz center Jusuf Nurkić will undergo a season-ending surgical procedure on his nose, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. Nurkić has reportedly experienced complications of breathing and sleeping since fracturing his nose a few years ago.

Nurkić averaged 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists while shooting 50.3% from the field in his first season with the Jazz. The 31-year-old has also spent time playing for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trail Blazers and the Denver Nuggets.

Nurkić is the latest Jazz player to be ruled out for the rest of the season. Jaren Jackson Jr. was also ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on his left knee. Jackson was reportedly shut down to ensure his long-term health after a localized PVNS growth was discovered post-trade.

Jackson was acquired by the Jazz in a trade in February that sent multiple players and three future first-round picks to the Memphis Grizzlies. Jazz center Walker Kessler played in five games this season before undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

With Nurkić ruled out, expect the Jazz to go with Kyle Filipowski, 37-year-old Kevin Love and two-way contract player Oscar Tshiebwe. The Jazz could also experiment with playing star forward Lauri Markkanen at center, as long as he is not shut down.

The Jazz injuries come at a time when the league is trying to crack down on tanking, with teams near the bottom of the standings eyeing a loaded 2026 NBA Draft. The Jazz and the Indiana Pacers were recently fined for “overt tanking behavior." 

The Jazz and Pacers have been under scrutiny because both team have a chance to keeping their 2026 NBA Draft pick depending on where they land. The Jazz can only keep their pick if land in the top eight of the draft.

Teams such as the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards have also recently sat star players they recently acquired. The Jazz are 18-39, currently second to last in the West.

Red Bull's F1 showcase in the Marina was utter chaos

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, races on Marina Boulevard at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Red Bull's Showrun in San Francisco brought speed and chaos to the Marina on Saturday both on and off the track.

The annual showcase gave spectators a chance to witness some of the most suped-up vehicles out there racing down the Marina. However, much of the Formula 1 demonstration centered around what people weren't able to see and how they chose to solve that problem. 

Unless someone was standing by the street-turned-track barrier - including those who were just one or two rows behind - it was quite difficult to see the cars speeding by for the mere seconds they were visible. Witnesses on social media described attendees either practically on top of one another or standing on different structures surrounding the event. They stood on street signs, construction equipment and a shipping container, and they even sneaked onto the properties of surrounding residences. One video on TikTok showed police removing spectators who had made their way onto the balcony of a nearby apartment.

Tens of thousands of spectators flock to Marina Boulevard in San Francisco to watch the Red Bull Showrun presented by Ford Racing on Feb. 21, 2026. (Anadolu/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, exits his car after it catches fire at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.  (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Fans go to extreme lengths to see the racing at the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Aaron Colton does donuts at the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Some of the attendees took matters into their own hands and brought ladders and chairs from home so they could get a better view over the uncontained crowd. The number of people in the Marina on Saturday created some bottleneck situations, trapping aspiring spectators who had brought infants and dogs to the event. In one Reddit post, commenters confirmed witnessing altercations over the limited space. It also caused major traffic issues throughout the city on Saturday.

SFGATE reached out to various authorities about the fallout from the event. The San Francisco Fire Department directed SFGATE to the event's organizers. The Department of Building Inspection did not find any complaints submitted over possible damage done to nearby homes. SFPD's public information officer did not respond to inquiries about arrests and citations. Mayor Daniel Lurie's office also did not respond to a request for comment.

It wasn't just the spectators who had problems during the event, as the spectacle itself had its share of notable mishaps too. One race car caught fire while driver Yuki Tsunoda, of "Drive to Survive" fame, did some celebratory donuts on the street, and another hit a barricade in front of some spectators, causing the car's wing to fall off. Both drivers looked unscathed after their respective incidents. As for the financial damage, Red Bull's own FAQ site values F1 cars at an estimated $16 million.

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, exits his car after it catches fire at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Fans test their pit stop skills at the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

A Ford Raptor T1+ does donuts at the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Even the post-event hype video couldn't avoid a mistake, as the on-screen captions had Tsunoda calling the city "San Fransisco," a typo that Red Bull also had on its official schedule as of Monday morning. 

SFGATE local editor Kasia Pawlowska contributed to this report.

Yuki Tsunoda of Red Bull Racing at the Red Bull Showrun in San Francisco on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Christian and his two kids watch the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.  (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Scott Speed races at the Red Bull Showrun in the Marina on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, races on Marina Boulevard at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, greets fans at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, races on Marina Boulevard at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull's test and reserve driver, greets fans at the Red Bull Showrun on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Chris Partin/For SFGATE)

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This article originally published at Red Bull's F1 showcase in the Marina was utter chaos.

Lindsey Vonn says she almost lost her leg after Olympics crash: 'I can't tell you how painful it's been'

Lindsey Vonn wears a helmet and goggle as she races in an alpine ski women's downhill training, at the 2026 Winter Olympics
U.S. ski racer Lindsey Vonn trains at the Winter Olympics on Feb. 7 in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy. (Jacquelyn Martin / Associated Press)

Lindsey Vonn says her left leg almost needed to be amputated following her horrific crash while competing at the Milan-Cortina Olympics earlier this month.

In a video posted to Instagram on Monday, the U.S. ski racing legend said she has been released from the hospital more than two weeks after suffering a complex tibia fracture and other damage that led to compartment syndrome in the leg.

Vonn credited Dr. Tom Hackett, an orthopedic surgeon who works for Vonn and Team USA, for salvaging the limb. She also gave some indirect credit to the complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee that occurred during another crash on Jan. 30, just a week before the start of the Winter Olympics.

"I always talk about everything happens for a reason," Vonn said. "If I hadn't torn my ACL ... Tom wouldn't have been there. He wouldn't have been able to save my leg."

Read more:Lindsey Vonn says she has no regrets. Experts agree torn ACL didn't cause her crash

Vonn has won 84 World Cup races and three Olympic medals, including gold in the downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games. She returned to competitive skiing last year after a six-year hiatus. Vonn did not allow the torn ACL to prevent her from competing in what she has called her "fifth and final Olympics."

Despite completing multiple test runs, Vonn's Feb. 8 downhill race lasted 13 seconds before she crashed. She was airlifted from the Olimpia delle Tofane course in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

In addition to the previously reported complex tibia fracture, Vonn said Monday that she also fractured her fibular head and tibia plateau on her left leg during the crash.

Read more:Lindsey Vonn reveals that her beloved dog, Leo, died the day after her downhill crash at Olympics

"Just kind of everything was in pieces," said Vonn, who added that she also broke her right ankle during the accident.

Vonn said that all the trauma in her left leg caused a condition called compartment syndrome, which involves excessive pressure building up inside a muscle, either from bleeding or swelling, and can restrict blood flow and possibly lead to permanent injury.

"When you have so much trauma to one area of your body that there's too much blood and it gets stuck, and it basically crushes everything in the compartment so all the muscle and nerves and tendons, it all kind of dies," Vonn said.

Read more:U.S. Olympics hockey hero Jack Hughes' immediate future includes dental implants

"And Dr. Tom Hackett saved my leg. He saved my leg from being amputated. He did what's called a fasciotomy, where he cut open, like both sides of my leg, and kind of filleted open, so to speak, let it breathe. And he saved me."

At one point since the crash, Vonn said, she received a blood transfusion to raise her hemoglobin levels.

"I can't tell you how painful it's been," she said.

Read more:Records, proposals and controversy: The legacy of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Games

Vonn still has a long road to recovery. She said she's "very much immobile," confined to a wheelchair for the time being and then on crutches for at least two months.

"It will take around a year for all of the bones to heal and then I will decide if I want to take out all the metal or not," Vonn wrote in the Instagram post, "and then go back into surgery and finally fix my ACL."

She added in the video: "We have to take the punches as they come, so I'll do the best I can with this one. It really knocked me down, but I'm like Rocky. I'll just keep getting back up."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Contender power rankings, Cade's MVP case, Celtics/Lakers lessons, Team USA & Boozer vs. Dybantsa with John Fanta

Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor Show
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

On today’s Kevin O’Connor Show, KOC is joined by NBC broadcaster John Fanta to talk everything NBA. They start with Eastern Conference contender power rankings: who’s the number one team in the East? Could Cade Cunningham really be MVP?

Then, they turn to Team USA hockey’s gold-medal win against Canada before John tells the story of his call-up to the NBA on NBC by Mike Tirico.

Plus, they discuss if Anthony Edwards is the face of the league, address the troubles in Phoenix & Houston, and take a look at the top prospects in this year’s fiery draft class.

That and more, today!

Eastern Conference Contenders (1:39)
USA Hockey and John's NBC Career (43:16)
Draft Class (1:10:20)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 22: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics talks to head coach Joe Mazulla during the second half of their game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on February 22, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luiza Moraes/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 22: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics talks to head coach Joe Mazulla during the second half of their game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on February 22, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luiza Moraes/Getty Images)
Luiza Moraes

🖥️ Watch this full episode on the Yahoo Sports NBA YouTube channel

Check out all episodes of The Kevin O’Connor Show and the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. has perfect response to poor 2025 form

Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. has perfect response to poor 2025 form originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One thing we know about the NFL is that success isn't linear, and Jacksonville Jaguars star receiver Brian Thomas Jr. found that out the hard way in 2025.

After a stellar rookie season that saw Thomas post 1,282 yards and 10 TDs, many thought Year 2 would be even better...but it wasn't.

Thomas would post just 707 yards and 2 TDs on 47 receptions (had 82 in his rookie season), and that has led some to think his future might lie elsewhere, despite him only being with the Jaguars for two years.

And when reflecting on the season, Thomas Jr. gave the perfect response.

"It was just adversity, [which] gives you a lot to grow from," Thomas said via ESPN. "I wouldn't call it frustrating. I mean, it just gives you something to build off. You know what you've got to do and you know what you got to do to sustain [success]."

More:Saints' Cam Jordan gives huge vote of confidence for Tyler Shough as franchise leader

Thomas Jr.'s future oddly uncertain

Some think that Thomas Jr. will be on the trade block this offseason, mainly due to Travis Hunter's emergence, but it doesn't seem too feasible.

The biggest reason is, why would the Jaguars, who have contractual control over Brian, along with having him cheap, move on and potentially put the offense in a bind?

Yes, his 2025 stats were nowhere near his rookie numbers, but one down year doesn't mean the Jags should cut ties.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out over the coming weeks and months, but at least Brian is self-aware enough to take 2025 in his stride and not mope around about it.

More NFL news:

Steve Sarkisian updates transfer Laurence Seymore's eligibility

As the Longhorns approach spring practice, one of the subplots is Laurence Seymore. The OL transfer from Western Kentucky is currently in a fight to be granted a waiver for the 2026 season. After using his redshirt year at Miami(FL), Seymour sat after transferring to Akron, something he wouldn't have to do today. The argument is Seymore should have that year back so he can play for the Longhorns. 

Steve Sarkisian and the coaching staff are unlikely to give many assurances until they are certain, but there seems to be optimism. Inside Texas reported last week that Seymore hopes to hear from the NCAA early in March and they feel confident. Currently, it’s hard to predict what the NCAA is going to do but it seems Seymore’s could fit into a grey area of the NCAA rule. 

On transfer OL Laurence Seymore, Steve Sarkisian says the school is still waiting on a return from the NCAA about his waiver.

Seymore submitted a waiver before entering the portal, but was able to re-submit with a more "compelling" argument after arriving at #Texas.

Sark:…

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) February 23, 2026

It should be said if the NCAA doesn’t rule in Seymore’s favor, that is not the end of the process. The precedent has been set to take these matters to court and I’d expect that if the NCAA doesn’t grant Seymore’s waiver. It can’t be stressed enough how important Seymore is for Texas’ plans in 2026. He fits into the final starting spot on the OL, likely LG, and brings experience and elite pass protection. If the Texas OL is going to be a true strength of the team, Seymore likely has to be a part of it. 

#Texas HC Steve Sarkisian speaks on the offensive line additions out of the portal and the emphasis for all levels of the offense to improve. @kbohls with the OL Question. pic.twitter.com/0GJ9SEN09G

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) February 23, 2026

This process can be long and convoluted. Hopefully we hear early next week that Seymore has been granted a waiver and is clear to join the Longhorns as soon as possible. Steve Sarkisian gave us a small peek behind the curtain but the NCAA decision will come soon enough. A no from the NCAA doesn’t end the process but it sure saves Seymore some time and headache.

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas' Steve Sarkisian updates OL Laurence Seymore's eligibility fight

I almost lost my leg after crash, says Vonn

Lindsey Vonn of Team United States during Women's Downhill on day two of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics at Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre on February 8, 2026.
Lindsey Vonn said she wished her Winter Olympics had ended differently [Getty Images]

Lindsey Vonn says she nearly lost her leg after a heavy crash at the Winter Olympics - and has thanked the doctor who saved her from needing an amputation.

The American skiing great, 41, has had multiple operations since breaking her leg and ankle in the women's downhill event in Italy on 8 February.

Speaking in an Instagram video on Monday, she paid tribute to her surgeon for saving her leg and described the injury as "the most extreme, painful and challenging" of her career.

Vonn said her leg was "in pieces" and that she had compartment syndrome, a pressure inside a muscle, which restricts blood flow - and that the surgeon performed a fasciotomy, an emergency operation, to relieve the pressure.

"Dr Tom Hackett saved my leg - he saved it from being amputated," she said.

"He cut open both sides of my leg, so it was open and let it breathe so to speak. He saved me."

Vonn, who returned to the United States last week after four operations in Italy, said she has now left hospital and been moved to a hotel, describing it as a "huge step".

She added that she will be in a wheelchair "for a while" because in addition to the broken leg, she has also broken her ankle.

Vonn was racing at the Olympics in Cortina nine days after rupturing ligaments in her left knee when she struck a gate 13 seconds into her downhill run.

She was airlifted off the piste and diagnosed with a complex tibia fracture in her left leg.

Having returned to the USA, Vonn explained she had a six-hour reconstructive operation on Wednesday, but also needed a blood transfusion as she had "low haemoglobin due to all the blood loss and surgeries".

She added: "I turned a corner, and now I am out. It's going to be a long road, I'm in a wheelchair right now, very much immobile. I hope I can be on crutches in a little bit, but we'll see and be on them for at least two months."

Vonn said it could take a year for her bones to heal, adding: "Then I will decide if I want to take out all the metal or not, and then go back into surgery and finally fix my ACL [anterior cruciate ligament]."

No. 2 Houston Cougars dropped from top-seed in latest bracketology

No. 2 Houston Cougars dropped from top-seed in latest bracketology originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Houston Cougars faced consecutive losses to Iowa State and Arizona last week. A combination of a weakened defense and scoring droughts at critical moments led to defeats against two top Big 12 opponents, both of which are now ranked higher than the Cougars.

Kelvin Sampson’s Houston Cougars suffered consecutive scoring droughts that proved costly. Houston went scoreless in the final five minutes against Iowa State earlier in the week, then endured an eight-minute drought in the second half against Arizona at the Fertitta Center.

Arizona replaces Houston as a No. 1 seed. The Wildcats rebounded with victories against BYU and Houston. Sporting News Senior Writer Bill Bender ranks Arizona among the top seeds alongside Duke, Michigan, and Iowa State.

The Houston Cougars will take on the Kansas Jayhawks tonight at 8 pm, and all eyes will be on the Cougars' ability to overcome key painpoints that need to be corrected if they hope to run deep in March. 

More college basketball news:

Why Team USA women’s hockey turned down invitation to White House State of the Union address

United States women's hockey

Why Team USA women’s hockey turned down invitation to White House State of the Union address originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The United States ended the Olympics with a bang, winning gold medals in both the men's and women's ice hockey events.

While the men return with a heroes welcome, including a potential appearance at the White House State of the Union on Tuesday night, the women won't be in attendance. President Donald Trump invited the men to the event in a phone call on Sunday, and seemingly acknowledged a backhanded invitation for the women against his own wishes.

"I must tell you, we're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that," Trump told the team.

While it appears that the White House did give the women an official invitation to join on Tuesday, the team made the decision to turn it down in favor of returning to their professional or collegiate lives.

Here's why the women's hockey team will not be in Washington D.C. on Tuesday night.

MORE: Biggest winners and losers from the 2026 Olympics

Why Team USA women's hockey declined State of the Union invitation

In a statement, the United States women's hockey team said it turned down the invitation to attend the State of the Union due to logistical issues.

"We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women's Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement. Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment."

The women who play in the Professional Women’s Hockey League will resume their season over this weekend, with the first game being Thursday when the Montreal Victoire play the New York Sirens. Additionally, those still in college will return to their schools for games beginning on Friday.

Of the 23 players on Team USA's women's hockey roster, 16 play professionally in the PWHL while seven play for their college teams.

MORE: Final medal count, full table from 2026 Winter Olympics

Joan Laporta targets Real Madrid in new book

Joan Laporta targets Real Madrid in new book
Joan Laporta targets Real Madrid in new book

Former Barça president reignites Spanish football war

Joan Laporta targets Real Madrid in new book

Former Barcelona president Joan Laporta will release new book on 24 February sharing his version of the club’s recent crises.

Laporta prepares book ahead of elections

Former Joan Laporta who stepped down from his role at Barcelona ahead of the next elections, is set to publish a new book titled “This Is How We Saved Barcelona”

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the book will be officially released on Monday, with copies available in bookstores from 24 February.

Laporta uses the book to explain how he dealt with Barcelona’s severe financial crisis during his second term as president.

Financial crisis and key departures

In the book, Laporta details the difficult decisions taken over five year describing what he calls innovative solutions to fix what he viewed as chaotic financial situation at the club.

He also addresses the high-profile departures of Lionel Messi, former coach Ronald Koeman and club legend Xavi Hernandez. Laporta explains the context behind each exit and how those moments shaped Barcelona’s recent history.

The book also includes Laporta’s position on the European Super League project and Barcelona’s involvement in the controversial plan.

Laporta addresses the Negreira case

Laporta also uses the book to respond to accusations linked to the Negreira case stating that there is no clear evidence showing that payments made to companies connected to former referees official influenced referee appointments or match results.

He challenges critics to point out specific match, goal or decision that benefited Barcelona because of those payments. Laporta insists that no sporting advantage was gained.

The former Barcelona president also responds directly to comments made by Florentino Perez president of Real Madrid who recently described the Negreira case as the biggest scandal in football history.

Laporta counters by claiming that, for decades, many heads of Spain’s refereeing committees had close ties to Real Madrid, either as former players, officials or supporters.

He argues that this situation, in his view, represents a far greater controversy in Spanish football.

APT28 Targeted European Entities Using Webhook-Based Macro Malware

The Russia-linked state-sponsored threat actor tracked as APT28 has been attributed to a new campaign targeting specific entities in Western and Central Europe. The activity, per S2 Grupo's LAB52 threat intelligence team, was active between September 2025 and January 2026. It has been codenamed Operation MacroMaze. "The campaign relies on basic tooling and the exploitation of legitimate services

Xbox co-founder believes “Xbox is being sunsetted” — as Microsoft pivots to AI

24 February 2026 at 00:32
Xbox co-founder Seamus Blackley has raised concerns that Microsoft’s increasing focus on AI could sideline the Xbox brand. In a recent interview, he argues that Xbox is being “sunsetted” as the company pivots toward generative AI, though his comments remain speculative.

Firefox AI Kill Switch Moves From Beta to Mainline in 148 Release, Available Ahead of Launch

24 February 2026 at 01:39
Mozilla announced in early February that it had implemented its "AI kill switch" in a nightly build after severe community backlash, with the full release slated for Firefox 148. As of February 23, Firefox 148 is officially available for download via the download server ahead of the officially announced February 24 launch date. According to Mozilla, the AI features will remain disabled through updates once they have been disabled via the kill switch.

The AI kill switch isn't the only new change coming to Firefox 148, with Mozilla also slated to add features like a split view and HDR video streaming on Windows, with both features seemingly leaving experimental in build 148. Hardware acceleration is also expected to speed up PDF load times, and the sidebar will be getting a visual update with convenient access to bookmarks, history, AI tools, and the settings menu. As with other Firefox UI elements, the new sidebar is fully customizable in the settings menu.

DeepNude Online Stats – Track global laws and stats on AI-generated intimate imagery


DeepNude Online is a global database that tracks legislation, statistics, and educational resources related to AI-generated intimate imagery. It offers an interactive regulation map covering over 150 countries with details on criminal penalties, civil remedies, platform liability, and age restrictions. Use the site to compare regional approaches, explore trends and estimates on usage and harm, and access guidance for parents, educators, employers, and individuals. The platform updates regularly to support policymakers, researchers, and advocates working to combat non-consensual AI imagery.

View startup

Hundreds stranded overnight on planes as snow shuts down Munich Airport

24 February 2026 at 00:45
Lufthansa aircraft parked at airport gates in winter snow with ground crew and service vehicles.About 500 airline passengers were forced to remain overnight on grounded aircraft at Munich Airport after heavy snowfall disrupted operations and ground transport services, leaving several late-night flights unable to depart or return travelers to […]

Abercrombie & Kent Strengthens Leadership to Boost Trade Sales Focus

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG), which owns Crystal Cruises, has appointed Debra Fox Chief Sales Officer – Trade and expanded the roles of two SVPs, Matias Lira and Shawn Johnson, both of which will report to Fox. “This structure allows us to deliver even more focused support to our trade partners than ever before,”...

Cozumel, Mexico And Western Caribbean Calm Cruise Turns Tense After Ship Spots Boat on the Brink of Sinking!

24 February 2026 at 01:41
Cozumel, Mexico And Western Caribbean Calm Cruise Turns Tense After Ship Spots Boat on the Brink of Sinking!

A Western Caribbean cruise heading to Cozumel, Mexico turned into a life-saving mission when a passenger vessel encountered a small craft in distress and rescued five individuals at sea. The incident highlights the crucial humanitarian role commercial ships play and the international laws that require vessels to assist anyone in danger on the ocean.

Emergency Rescue Operation in the Caribbean

The incident occurred on February 16 while the cruise ship Carnival Celebration, operated by Carnival Cruise Line, was sailing through the Caribbean Sea during a seven-day Western Caribbean voyage departing from Miami. Crew members identified a small vessel experiencing distress and immediately initiated emergency response procedures. The ship altered its course and carried out a coordinated recovery operation, successfully bringing five stranded mariners safely onboard. The United States Coast Guard was notified and provided operational guidance throughout the rescue, ensuring that the operation followed established international maritime safety protocols. Officials have not released the identities or nationalities of the rescued individuals, and the cause of the emergency remains unknown.

Distress Vessel in Critical Condition

Passenger-recorded footage indicated that the small wooden craft was poorly constructed and at risk of sinking. Reports suggested the vessel had minimal equipment and limited structural stability, making it vulnerable to open-sea conditions.

Maritime safety authorities warn that improvised or inadequately equipped boats face serious risks in the Caribbean due to:

  • Strong currents
  • Sudden weather changes
  • Long distances from shore
  • Limited access to rescue services

Cruise Itinerary Continued After Rescue

The rescue took place during a scheduled Western Caribbean sailing, which included stops at:

  • Cozumel
  • Roatán
  • A private destination in the Bahamas

The ship returned to Miami on February 22, and the emergency response did not significantly disrupt the voyage schedule.

Modern cruise ships like Carnival Celebration are equipped with:

  • Onboard medical facilities
  • Emergency rescue equipment
  • Highly trained crew for maritime incidents

International Law Requires Rescue at Sea

The operation reflects a global legal obligation under maritime law. The United Nations framework, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), requires shipmasters to:

  • Assist any person found in danger at sea
  • Provide help as quickly as possible
  • Coordinate with appropriate rescue authorities

This obligation applies regardless of nationality or circumstances, provided the rescue does not endanger the assisting vessel or its passengers.

Cruise Ships as Critical First Responders

In open ocean regions like the Caribbean, commercial ships often serve as the nearest rescue units. Because of their size and resources, cruise vessels can:

  • Detect distress situations through radar and visual monitoring
  • Provide immediate shelter, food, and medical care
  • Coordinate with coast guard agencies and rescue centers

Crew members undergo specialized emergency training, including search-and-rescue coordination and safe transfer procedures.

Previous Maritime Assistance by the Cruise Line

This is not the first rescue operation involving Carnival vessels. In May 2025, another ship from the company assisted individuals aboard a distressed boat near Cuba during a voyage between Florida and Jamaica.

During that incident:

  • Five individuals requested rescue and were brought onboard
  • Others chose to remain on their vessel
  • Crew members provided food, water, and humanitarian aid
  • The U.S. Coast Guard was notified after the operation

Such events demonstrate the recurring humanitarian role of cruise ships in busy international waters.

Safety Challenges in the Caribbean

The Caribbean Sea is one of the world’s busiest maritime regions, used for tourism, commercial shipping, and small-vessel travel. However, safety risks increase significantly when boats lack:

  • Proper flotation devices
  • Communication equipment
  • Weather monitoring capability
  • Structural seaworthiness

Government maritime agencies strongly recommend these precautions to reduce the risk of emergencies.

Coordination with Maritime Authorities

Standard rescue protocol in international waters includes:

  1. Assessing the distress situation safely
  2. Contacting the nearest rescue coordination authority
  3. Conducting recovery under professional guidance
  4. Providing medical evaluation and basic necessities onboard
  5. Arranging transfer to authorities at the next suitable port

The involvement of the U.S. Coast Guard ensured the February rescue followed these established procedures.

What This Means for Travelers

For cruise passengers, such operations are rare but important reminders that cruise ships operate under strict international safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization. While voyages are primarily leisure experiences, cruise vessels also function as mobile emergency response platforms capable of assisting others in distress.

A Life-Saving Reminder of Maritime Responsibility

The successful rescue of five individuals in the Caribbean underscores a long-standing maritime principle: all ships share responsibility for protecting life at sea. As cruise travel continues to grow to destinations such as Cozumel and the Western Caribbean, the ability of large vessels to respond quickly to emergencies remains a vital component of global ocean safety. This incident demonstrates how swift action by trained crews, combined with coordination from government authorities, can prevent tragedy and reinforce the international commitment to humanitarian assistance on the world’s oceans.

The post Cozumel, Mexico And Western Caribbean Calm Cruise Turns Tense After Ship Spots Boat on the Brink of Sinking! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Thousands Of Passengers Grounded In Asia As UAE, Japan, Thailand, China, India, Hong Kong, Indonesia And South Korea Cancel 81 And Delay 2,757 Flights, Grounding Emirates, Air China, Japan Airlines, ANA, IndiGo, Cathay Pacific And Others In Dubai, Tokyo, Delhi, Bangkok, Beijing, And More

24 February 2026 at 01:35
Thousands Of Passengers Grounded In Asia As UAE, Japan, Thailand, China, India, Hong Kong, Indonesia And South Korea Cancel 81 And Delay 2,757 Flights, Grounding Emirates, Air China, Japan Airlines, ANA, IndiGo, Cathay Pacific And Others In Dubai, Tokyo, Delhi, Bangkok, Beijing, And More
Thousands Of Passengers Grounded In Asia As UAE, Japan, Thailand, China, India, Hong Kong, Indonesia And South Korea Cancel 81 And Delay 2,757 Flights, Grounding Emirates, Air China, Japan Airlines, ANA, IndiGo, Cathay Pacific And Others In Dubai, Tokyo, Delhi, Bangkok, Beijing, And More

Thousands of travellers stranded in Asia today as 2,838 flight cancellations and delays struck major Asian and Middle Eastern hubs: Dubai International (443 delays, 7 cancellations), Tokyo Haneda (414 delays, 13 cancellations), Delhi IGI (321 delays, 10 cancellations), Suvarnabhumi Bangkok (298 delays), Beijing Capital (253 delays, 6 cancellations), Hong Kong International (211 delays, 8 cancellations), Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta (177 delays, 20 cancellations), Incheon International (175 delays, 4 cancellations), Bengaluru International (140 delays, 1 cancellation), Phuket International (139 delays), Sultan Hasanuddin International (94 delays, 10 cancellations), and New Chitose (92 delays, 2 cancellations).
The most operationally impacted airlines include Emirates (170 delays, 5 cancellations), FlyDubai (152 delays), Air China (180 delays, 4 cancellations), Japan Airlines (156 delays, 4 cancellations), All Nippon Airways (129 delays, 3 cancellations), IndiGo (121 delays, 2 cancellations), Air India (106 delays, 3 cancellations), Cathay Pacific (97 delays, 7 cancellations), and Batik Air (31 delays, 20 cancellations). Other widely recognized carriers such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, British Airways, Air France, Vietnam Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, and SpiceJet also reported delays and/or cancellations.
The impacted regions include Dubai (UAE), Tokyo (Japan), Delhi (India), Bangkok (Thailand), Beijing (China), Hong Kong, Jakarta (Indonesia), Seoul (South Korea), Bengaluru (India), Phuket (Thailand), Makassar (Indonesia), and Sapporo (Japan).

  • Today’s Update: 2,757 delays and 81 cancellations recorded across 12 major airports.
  • Dubai International reported the highest number of delays (443).
  • Jakarta recorded the highest cancellation count (20).
  • Haneda recorded 414 delays and 13 cancellations.
  • Delhi logged 321 delays and 10 cancellations.
  • Bangkok saw 298 delays with no cancellations.
  • Air China recorded 180 delays, the highest airline delay total.
  • Emirates and FlyDubai combined for 322 delays at Dubai.
  • Cathay Pacific accounted for 7 of Hong Kong’s 8 cancellations.

Most Affected Asian Airports

Dubai International (UAE)

Dubai recorded 443 delays and 7 cancellations, the highest delay volume among all airports listed. Emirates and FlyDubai accounted for the majority of disruptions.

Tokyo Haneda (Japan)

Haneda logged 414 delays and 13 cancellations, with Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways contributing significant delay volume.

Indira Gandhi International – Delhi (India)

Delhi reported 321 delays and 10 cancellations, largely driven by IndiGo and Air India operations.

Suvarnabhumi – Bangkok (Thailand)

Bangkok saw 298 delays, making it one of the most delay-heavy but cancellation-free hubs today.

Beijing Capital (China)

Beijing Capital recorded 253 delays and 6 cancellations, with Air China responsible for the majority of affected flights.

Hong Kong International (China)

Hong Kong reported 211 delays and 8 cancellations, most cancellations linked to Cathay Pacific.

Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta (Indonesia)

Jakarta logged 177 delays and 20 cancellations, the highest cancellation count among all airports.

Incheon International (South Korea)

Incheon recorded 175 delays and 4 cancellations, with Korean Air contributing the majority of cancellations.

Bengaluru International (India)

Bengaluru saw 140 delays and 1 cancellation, primarily among domestic carriers.

Phuket International (Thailand)

Phuket recorded 139 delays, largely affecting regional and low-cost carriers.

Airlines Most Affected by Asia Flight Cancellations and Delays

Emirates

Emirates recorded 170 delays and 5 cancellations at Dubai International, contributing significantly to the airport’s overall 443 delayed flights.

FlyDubai

FlyDubai reported 152 delays at Dubai, making it one of the largest contributors to today’s delay volume across all hubs.

Air China

Air China logged 180 delays and 4 cancellations at Beijing Capital, the highest individual airline delay total recorded today.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines registered 156 delays and 4 cancellations at Tokyo Haneda, forming a major share of the airport’s 414 delayed flights.

All Nippon Airways

All Nippon Airways reported 129 delays and 3 cancellations at Haneda, reflecting sustained operational disruption.

IndiGo

IndiGo recorded 121 delays and 2 cancellations at Delhi, along with additional delays at Bengaluru and Dubai.

Air India

Air India logged 106 delays and 3 cancellations at Delhi, in addition to delays at other regional hubs.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific reported 97 delays and 7 cancellations at Hong Kong International, accounting for most of the airport’s cancellation total.

Batik Air

Batik Air registered 31 delays and 20 cancellations across Jakarta and Makassar, the highest cancellation count among airlines today.

Korean Air

Korean Air reported 51 delays and 3 cancellations at Incheon International, contributing to South Korea’s operational impact.

What Can Affected Passengers Do?

  • Check airline apps and official websites for real-time status updates.
  • Contact airline customer service regarding rebooking or compensation policies.
  • Monitor airport announcements for gate changes.
  • Retain boarding passes and receipts for potential claims.
  • Review travel insurance coverage where applicable.
  • Arrive early at airports experiencing high delay volumes.
  • Consider alternative routes if cancellations persist.

Learn More

Overview of Asia Flight Cancellations

Today’s disruption pattern shows heavy delay concentration at major hubs including Dubai (UAE), Tokyo (Japan), Delhi (India), Bangkok (Thailand), Beijing (China), Hong Kong, Jakarta (Indonesia), and Seoul (South Korea). Cancellation intensity was highest in Jakarta (Indonesia) and notable in Tokyo (Japan), Delhi (India), Hong Kong (China), and Dubai (UAE).
Among major global carriers, Emirates, Air China, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, IndiGo, Air India, and Cathay Pacific recorded the largest operational impacts. U.S.-based carriers including United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines also experienced cancellations or delays at select hubs.
The disruption spans multiple countries: United Arab Emirates, Japan, India, Thailand, China, Indonesia, and South Korea, affecting some of the busiest aviation corridors in Asia and the Middle East.
With 2,757 delays and 81 cancellations recorded today, operational strain remains concentrated at high-traffic international gateways and major national carriers.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware

The post Thousands Of Passengers Grounded In Asia As UAE, Japan, Thailand, China, India, Hong Kong, Indonesia And South Korea Cancel 81 And Delay 2,757 Flights, Grounding Emirates, Air China, Japan Airlines, ANA, IndiGo, Cathay Pacific And Others In Dubai, Tokyo, Delhi, Bangkok, Beijing, And More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Hundreds of Travellers Stranded at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas as 32 Flights Are Delayed and 27 Cancelled Disrupting American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Bahamasair and More Across Nassau and Key US Routes

24 February 2026 at 01:34
Hundreds of Travellers Stranded at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas as 32 Flights Are Delayed and 27 Cancelled Disrupting American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Bahamasair and More Across Nassau and Key US Routes
Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport faces 32 delays and 27 cancellations, disrupting Bahamas and US travel routes.

Lynden Pindling International Airport became the center of travel disruption today after aviation data confirmed 32 flight delays and 27 cancellations, creating uncertainty for passengers traveling between the Bahamas, the United States, and other Caribbean destinations. For families heading home, honeymooners extending their stay, and business travelers rushing to make connections, the shifting departure boards told a story of interruption that felt deeply personal.

The Bahamas relies heavily on smooth aviation connectivity. According to the Government of The Bahamas and the Ministry of Tourism, Aviation and Investments, Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) serves as the primary international gateway into the country, handling millions of passengers annually and linking Nassau to major cities across North America, Europe, and the wider Caribbean region. When disruptions hit Nassau, the ripple effects are felt far beyond the runway.

Scale of Today’s Disruptions

The total of 59 combined disruptions — 32 delays and 27 cancellations — marks a significant operational disturbance for a country whose tourism economy depends on reliable air access. Nassau is not only a vacation hotspot but also a key transit hub for travelers heading to Out Islands and cruise embarkation points.

Bahamas Civil Aviation Department (BCAD) regulations, aligned with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards, require strict operational oversight during weather irregularities, technical issues, or airspace constraints. When conditions fall outside acceptable safety margins, airlines and airport authorities must prioritize passenger safety over schedule reliability.

AirlineCancelled (#)Cancelled (%)Delayed (#)Delayed (%)
JetBlue1266%211%
Delta Air Lines642%00%
United466%116%
American Airlines418%14%
Bahamasair12%1332%
Caribbean Airlines00%150%
interCaribbean Airways00%150%
Southwest00%2100%
Western Air00%925%
Air Canada00%233%

While the exact operational trigger behind today’s disruptions has not been formally detailed, aviation authorities in the Bahamas regularly cite weather volatility, air traffic congestion from U.S. corridors, and aircraft rotation issues as common contributing factors.

Weather and Regional Aviation Sensitivity

The Caribbean aviation system operates within one of the world’s most weather-sensitive regions. The Bahamas Department of Meteorology routinely monitors tropical disturbances, high winds, and sudden storm development that can affect flight sequencing. Even brief weather shifts can force holding patterns, departure ground stops, or aircraft repositioning.

Given Nassau’s geographic proximity to Florida and other southeastern U.S. states, disruptions in American airspace frequently cascade into Bahamian operations. When major U.S. hubs experience congestion or ground delays, aircraft scheduled to depart for Nassau may arrive late — creating knock-on delays for return segments.

In highly interconnected aviation networks, one delayed aircraft can disrupt multiple subsequent flights throughout the day.

AirportCancelled (#)Cancelled (%)Delayed (#)Delayed (%)
Lynden Pindling Int’l (NAS)146%125%
John F Kennedy Int’l (JFK)5100%00%
Boston Logan Int’l (BOS)3100%00%
Newark Liberty Int’l (EWR)2100%00%
LaGuardia (LGA)1100%00%
Philadelphia Int’l (PHL)1100%00%
Reagan National (DCA)150%00%
Fort Lauderdale Int’l (FLL)00%327%
Orlando Int’l (MCO)00%133%
Providenciales Int’l (PLS)00%1100%
Marsh Harbour (MHH)00%350%
San Andros (SAQ)00%120%
Exuma Int’l (GGT)00%240%
Rock Sound Int’l (RSD)00%112%
Grand Bahama Int’l (FPO)00%428%
Inagua – Matthew Town (IGA)00%1100%
Stella Maris (SML)00%116%
San Salvador – Cockburn Town (ZSA)00%150%
Toronto Pearson Int’l (YYZ)00%120%

Tourism Economy Under Pressure

Tourism accounts for a substantial portion of the Bahamian economy. Government tourism data consistently highlights the importance of steady airlift capacity, particularly from U.S. cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, New York, and Charlotte.

When 27 flights are cancelled in a single day, hotels, tour operators, water excursion companies, and transportation providers immediately feel the impact. Visitors arriving late may miss prepaid excursions. Departing travelers may require extended hotel stays. Cruise passengers risk missing embarkation windows.

For Nassau’s hospitality sector, timing is everything.

Passenger Experience on the Ground

Inside the terminals at Lynden Pindling International Airport, delays create a domino effect: longer lines at service counters, increased demand for rebooking assistance, and limited availability on alternative flights.

Travelers navigating cancellations must often choose between waiting for the next available departure or rerouting through U.S. hubs. During peak travel seasons, replacement seats can be scarce.

Airline passenger rights in the Bahamas vary depending on the carrier’s country of registration. Many international airlines follow U.S. Department of Transportation compensation policies for flights operating to or from the United States. Passengers are typically advised to consult directly with airlines regarding accommodation, meal vouchers, or rebooking procedures.

Aviation Infrastructure and Operational Resilience

Lynden Pindling International Airport underwent a major redevelopment project completed in phases during the past decade, positioning it as one of the Caribbean’s most modern airport facilities. Operated by Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), the airport was designed to improve capacity, passenger flow, and storm resilience.

However, even modernized facilities remain vulnerable to operational bottlenecks when flight volumes spike unexpectedly. Caribbean hubs often operate with narrower margins for disruption recovery compared to mega-airports in larger nations.

Aviation experts note that smaller markets face a particular challenge: aircraft rotation flexibility is limited. If one aircraft operating Caribbean routes goes out of service due to maintenance or crew constraints, alternatives may not be immediately available.

Travel Advisory for Passengers

Travelers flying through Nassau in the coming days are advised to:

  • Check airline flight status frequently before departing for the airport
  • Arrive early to allow time for rebooking assistance if needed
  • Monitor weather advisories from the Bahamas Department of Meteorology
  • Consider travel insurance for missed connections and unexpected overnight stays
  • Avoid tight same-day cruise embarkation schedules

Morning departures often experience fewer cascading delays compared to late-afternoon flights, as aircraft rotations have not yet accumulated disruption from earlier legs.

Broader Caribbean Aviation Context

The Caribbean aviation ecosystem is deeply interconnected. A disruption in Nassau may influence connecting flights in Freeport, Montego Bay, Kingston, or even Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Regional aviation authorities emphasize that safety compliance remains the overriding priority. Temporary inconvenience is preferable to compromised operational standards.

As global travel demand remains strong, especially for tropical leisure destinations, airports like Nassau continue balancing growth with resilience planning.

Looking Ahead

While today’s figures — 32 delays and 27 cancellations — represent a notable operational strain, aviation systems are designed to recalibrate quickly once constraints ease. Airlines typically reposition aircraft overnight to stabilize the following day’s schedule.

For travelers sitting in departure lounges today, however, the disruption feels immediate. A cancelled flight might mean missing a wedding, postponing a long-awaited vacation, or spending another night away from home. Airports are transit spaces, but the emotions tied to travel are deeply human.

In Nassau, where turquoise waters and white-sand beaches symbolize escape and relaxation, travel interruptions can feel especially jarring. Yet the resilience of Caribbean travel lies in its adaptability. Flights resume, departure boards turn green again, and the steady rhythm of arrivals and departures continues.

For now, passengers are urged to remain patient, stay informed, and prioritize flexible travel planning as Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport works to restore full operational flow.

The post Hundreds of Travellers Stranded at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas as 32 Flights Are Delayed and 27 Cancelled Disrupting American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Bahamasair and More Across Nassau and Key US Routes appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Historic Bomb Cyclone Strikes US: New York Braces for Worst Snowstorm in One Hundred Fifty Years!

24 February 2026 at 01:33
Historic Bomb Cyclone Strikes US: New York Braces for Worst Snowstorm in One Hundred Fifty Years!

A powerful winter storm, intensifying into what meteorologists are calling a “bomb cyclone,” has wreaked havoc across the northeastern United States. As of February 23, 2026, six states have declared states of emergency, and millions of residents are facing widespread power outages, school closures, and severe travel disruptions. The storm has already blanketed New York City with up to 14 inches of snow, and forecasts warn that conditions will worsen in the coming hours. Experts are anticipating this storm may be one of the worst in the city’s history, potentially ranking among the top 10 snowstorms of the last 150 years.

Snowfall and Blizzard Warnings Affect Millions

Currently, over 69 million people across the northeastern United States are under winter weather alerts, with blizzard warnings stretching for more than 600 miles along the eastern seaboard. The storm’s intensity has already reached alarming levels, particularly in New York City, where 11 inches of snow have been reported in some areas. In some parts of Long Island and New Jersey, snowfall totals are expected to approach two feet, while powerful winds are causing hazardous conditions, including gusts of up to 85 mph in certain locations.

The storm’s potential to become a “bomb cyclone” means that it could rapidly intensify, with pressure dropping significantly in a 24-hour period, a hallmark of particularly destructive storms. This meteorological phenomenon has heightened concerns across the region, especially in New York City, which is bracing for the worst of the storm.

Travel Disruptions and Airport Chaos

The storm has already disrupted travel across the region, with thousands of flights canceled and delayed. Airports in New York, Boston, and Philadelphia have been particularly affected. LaGuardia and JFK airports have seen more than 1,000 flight cancellations combined, while Boston Logan International has also reported significant delays and cancellations.

At Boston’s Logan International, stranded travelers were seen walking through empty terminals as a result of the storm’s impact on air traffic. With over 6,000 flights canceled across the United States and thousands more delayed, the travel chaos continues to grow. The impact on public transportation has also been severe, with train and bus services suspended in several affected states. New Jersey Transit has halted operations, advising travelers to check for updates before heading to the station.

Power Outages Affecting Hundreds of Thousands

As the storm progresses, more than 650,000 people across the northeastern US have been left without power. The largest outages have been reported in Massachusetts, where nearly 280,000 customers are without electricity. Other states, including New Jersey, Delaware, and Rhode Island, are experiencing widespread outages, which are expected to increase as the storm continues. These power disruptions are further complicating emergency responses and efforts to clear snow and restore normalcy.

With high winds, downed power lines, and icy conditions, repair crews are facing significant challenges in restoring power. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until the storm subsides.

New York City’s Emergency Response and Worker Efforts

New York City is in full emergency response mode, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani visiting local administrative services to thank workers for their tireless efforts during the blizzard. More than 2,600 sanitation workers have been deployed, along with 2,300 snowplows, to clear streets and make the city passable. The city’s sanitation department is working around the clock to manage the snow accumulation and prevent road closures from worsening the travel chaos.

Despite these efforts, the storm’s severity has caused major disruptions, including a travel ban in place across many parts of the city. Non-essential vehicles are prohibited from traveling on city streets, highways, and bridges to ensure public safety and allow emergency services to operate effectively. With snow continuing to fall at a rapid pace, city officials are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

States of Emergency and Ongoing Alerts

Six states that are New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Delaware, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, have declared states of emergency as the storm’s intensity grows. These emergency declarations enable state and local governments to mobilize resources and allocate funds to respond to the extreme weather conditions. Blizzard warnings are in effect across the region, and residents are being urged to remain in safe locations as the storm impacts roads, airports, and utility services.

The national weather service has issued advisories for potentially life-threatening conditions, including “whiteout” snowstorms, which are making travel particularly dangerous. As the storm shifts northeastward, the worst-hit areas will continue to face extreme conditions throughout the night, with forecasts suggesting the storm could last for several more hours.

Impact on Daily Life and Preparation for Ongoing Conditions

The storm’s effects have been widespread, with Central Park seeing 15 inches of snow and Times Square transformed into a snow-covered winter wonderland. The severity of the snowstorm has also led to temporary closures of public spaces, and city officials have urged residents to respect these restrictions in order to protect public safety.

With the storm expected to last for at least another day, local authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. In addition to the travel and power disruptions, emergency services are facing delays, and residents are advised to stock up on essentials and prepare for possible extended periods without power.

Conclusion: A Historic Storm with Widespread Impact

The ongoing blizzard in the northeastern United States is shaping up to be a historic weather event. As it intensifies into a potential bomb cyclone, officials are taking all necessary precautions to mitigate the storm’s impact. With over 69 million people affected, and hundreds of thousands of homes without power, the storm’s disruptive force will likely continue to impact daily life across the region for several days. As cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia brace for worsening conditions, residents are urged to heed all safety warnings and stay informed on emergency services and travel advisories.

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Hyderabad Dreams Big: New Chalet Hotels Luxury Landmark to Transform the City of Pearls

24 February 2026 at 01:32
Hyderabad Dreams Big: New Chalet Hotels Luxury Landmark to Transform the City of Pearls

Imagine a city where ancient history meets a glittering future. Hyderabad is about to welcome a new crown jewel in its skyline. Chalet Hotels Limited has officially approved a grand project in Madhapur. This luxury hotel will offer 330 exquisite rooms for travelers. It is more than just a building made of bricks and gold. It is a promise of warmth and world-class hospitality for every visitor. This project marks a heartbeat of growth for the local community and the tourism industry.

A New Era for Telangana Tourism

The Board of Directors of Chalet Hotels Limited shared their vision on February 23, 2026. They plan to build a massive luxury destination. This site will sit in the heart of the Madhapur business district. According to the Ministry of Tourism, infrastructure is the backbone of travel. This new hotel will strengthen that backbone significantly. It will cater to international business travelers and leisure seekers alike. The project includes 36,255 sq. ft. of vibrant retail and commercial space. This blend creates a complete ecosystem for the modern traveler.

Strategic Investment in Hospitality

The financial commitment to this project is truly impressive. Chalet Hotels will invest approximately ₹6,328 million. This converts to a staggering ₹633 crore. The company will use its own earnings and strategic debt for funding. Government data shows that such investments create thousands of local jobs. This project follows a “warm shell lease” development model. It ensures the hotel meets the highest standards of safety and design. By FY2029, this property will join the prestigious Chalet Hotels portfolio.

Boosting the “Big-Box” Strategy

Chalet Hotels is known for its “big-box” strategy. They focus on large-scale hotels in major Indian cities. This will be their third major property in the city. They already operate the famous Westin Hyderabad Mindspace. Adding 330 more luxury rooms helps meet the rising demand. Hyderabad is a global hub for IT and pharmaceuticals. The Ministry of Commerce highlights the city as a top investment destination. More rooms mean more capacity for global summits and large conventions. This directly boosts the local economy through increased footfall.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience

Tourism thrives when guests feel comfortable and inspired. The Madhapur location is perfect for this goal. It is very close to the bustling Hitec City area. Travelers can access work hubs and shopping centers easily. The integrated retail space will showcase local and global brands. This creates a lively atmosphere for guests. The government’s “Visit India” initiatives prioritize such high-quality infrastructure. A luxury stay often defines a traveler’s memory of a city. This hotel aims to make those memories unforgettable.

A Hub for Global Travelers

The leadership at Chalet Hotels emphasized the importance of this expansion. The MD and CEO noted that Hyderabad is a key market. They believe the city has immense potential for luxury growth. The project will align with the latest sustainability norms. Modern travelers often look for eco-friendly luxury options. By following national building codes, the project ensures safety and longevity. This development will likely attract more direct international flights to the city. Better lodging always leads to better connectivity.

Economic Impact and Growth

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) often tracks such major projects. Large hospitality projects stimulate the local supply chain. From furniture to food, local businesses will benefit. The ₹6.3 billion investment will circulate through the Hyderabad economy. It will support artisans, engineers, and hospitality professionals. This project is a vote of confidence in India’s tourism future. It shows that the industry is resilient and ready to expand.

A Gateway to the Future

This project is scheduled for completion by the 2029 fiscal year. It represents a long-term commitment to the state of Telangana. The tourism board expects a rise in high-net-worth visitors. These visitors contribute significantly to the state’s revenue. With 330 luxury rooms, the hotel can host massive corporate events. It will also be a top choice for grand Indian weddings. Such events bring people from all over the world to Hyderabad. Each guest will experience the unique blend of Hyderabadi culture and modern luxury.

As the sun sets over the Hussain Sagar Lake, the city prepares for a bright tomorrow. This new luxury hotel is not just an investment in property. It is an investment in the smiles of tired travelers. It is an investment in the dreams of young professionals joining the workforce. We see a future where Hyderabad stands tall as a global tourism giant. This project is a giant leap toward that beautiful reality. Every room will tell a story of comfort and care. The city of pearls is ready to shine even brighter for you.

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Seaplane Asia and NexAvian Partner at Singapore Airshow to Transform Air Mobility and Boost Southeast Asia Tourism

24 February 2026 at 01:30
Seaplane Asia and NexAvian Partner at Singapore Airshow to Transform Air Mobility and Boost Southeast Asia Tourism

In a game-changing move for the future of aviation, Seaplane Asia and NexAvian Pte. Ltd. have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 2026 Singapore Airshow, setting the stage for a new era of air mobility across Southeast Asia. This partnership holds immense potential for boosting regional connectivity and tourism by introducing cutting-edge, sustainable aviation technologies.

A Partnership Shaping the Future of Aviation

Seaplane Asia, renowned for its expertise in amphibious aviation, has teamed up with NexAvian, a leader in emerging aviation technologies. This collaboration blends both companies’ strengths: Seaplane Asia’s solid operational experience and NexAvian’s technological prowess in advanced air mobility (AAM). Their combined vision aims to make Southeast Asia a hub for sustainable and efficient air transport, ensuring future-proof solutions for the region’s aviation industry.

Boosting Regional Connectivity and Tourism

This partnership has the potential to transform the tourism landscape across Southeast Asia. By introducing new air mobility solutions, Seaplane Asia and NexAvian will significantly enhance regional connectivity, making remote destinations more accessible to travelers. Air travel options will be safer, more efficient, and more sustainable, attracting more international tourists to Southeast Asia.

Thailand, an early focus market for the partnership, stands to benefit immensely from this collaboration. With a growing tourism sector and a rising demand for innovative travel options, Thailand’s unique tourist attractions—from its beautiful islands to its cultural treasures—will be more easily reached by air. This could spark a tourism boom, bringing in more visitors and increasing the number of flight operations, further driving the local economy.

Strengthening the Air Mobility Ecosystem

As part of the MoU, Seaplane Asia and NexAvian will engage with government agencies, regulators, and industry leaders throughout Southeast Asia. They plan to collaborate on creating technical standards, developing regulatory frameworks, and contributing to the region’s broader Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) ecosystem. This collaboration will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of air transport in the region.

The agreement outlines the involvement of both companies in various working groups, national AAM framework development, and technical discussions aimed at pushing the boundaries of aviation technology and ensuring safety. The partnership will also focus on improving infrastructure, including water aerodromes and vertiports, which are critical for the next generation of aviation.

Both companies will also participate in key conferences, government presentations, and networking events across Southeast Asia. These efforts are expected to ensure that sustainable air transport solutions are integrated into the region’s tourism infrastructure, benefiting both travelers and local communities.

Driving Investment and Innovation in Sustainable Aviation

Seaplane Asia and NexAvian’s collaboration isn’t just about enhancing air mobility; it’s also about creating new business opportunities. Through joint ventures, feasibility studies, and advisory engagements, the partnership will explore future aviation projects, including hybrid-electric and amphibious aircraft demonstrations.

This forward-thinking approach will attract investors, technology providers, and infrastructure developers who are eager to capitalize on the growing market for advanced air mobility solutions in Southeast Asia. The partnership’s emphasis on sustainability is particularly important as governments across the region prioritize green technologies and carbon reduction in the aviation sector.

The collaboration will also create opportunities for tourism partners who seek innovative ways to enhance visitor experiences. With more sustainable and efficient air travel options, tourists will be able to enjoy a more seamless and environmentally-friendly journey, aligning with global trends in sustainable travel.

A Sustainable Vision for the Future

Seaplane Asia and NexAvian’s partnership is more than just a business collaboration—it’s a step towards a sustainable and connected future for Southeast Asia. With a shared commitment to advancing safe and scalable mobility, both companies are ready to support the development of next-generation air transport technologies. Their focus on sustainability and practical mobility solutions aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism options.

With the new technologies introduced by this partnership, travelers will be able to experience Southeast Asia in a whole new way. Remote islands, previously difficult to access, will become more accessible, bringing the region’s stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and unique experiences to a wider audience. Moreover, the environmental benefits of this collaboration will appeal to conscious travelers who prioritize sustainability in their journeys.

A New Era of Tourism in Southeast Asia

The collaboration between Seaplane Asia and NexAvian marks the beginning of a transformative period for aviation in Southeast Asia. This partnership holds the promise of revolutionizing regional connectivity, improving tourism accessibility, and supporting sustainable practices in air transport.

As the region prepares to embrace the future of aviation, tourists can look forward to a new chapter of seamless, eco-friendly travel across Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations. With this partnership, the region is poised to lead the way in advanced air mobility, ensuring that the future of travel is not only efficient and safe but also sustainable for generations to come.

This collaboration could very well be the catalyst for the next great tourism boom in Southeast Asia, making the region one of the most desirable destinations for travelers worldwide.

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Hong Kong’s Countryside Harvest Festival 2026: A Spectacular Fusion of Music, Dance, and Nature at Yan Chau Tong

24 February 2026 at 01:30
Hong Kong’s Countryside Harvest Festival 2026: A Spectacular Fusion of Music, Dance, and Nature at Yan Chau Tong

The Countryside Conservation Office (CCO), under the Hong Kong Environment and Ecology Bureau, is preparing for a monumental cultural event—the Countryside Harvest Festival 2026. Titled “Hong Kong Soundscape – Opera & Dance,” this one-day music festival will take place on 1 March 2026, at the stunning Yan Chau Tong in Mirs Bay, which is an officially recognised “Outstanding Example of Beautiful Bays” by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

This extraordinary event is part of the 54th Hong Kong Arts Festival’s “Festival PLUS” programme. With the scenic backdrop of the bay’s natural beauty, this festival will not only celebrate art and nature, but also draw international attention to the region’s cultural and ecological significance.

A Global Artistic Experience in the Heart of Hong Kong’s Countryside

The festival will be directed and conducted by Tan Dun, one of the world’s most acclaimed composers, renowned for his work in classical music and film scores. As a UNESCO Global Goodwill Ambassador and Hong Kong’s Ambassador for Cultural Promotion, Tan Dun has curated a unique and original musical composition inspired by the natural landscapes of Hong Kong’s northeastern New Territories. His work will explore the relationship between music, dance, and the natural environment, creating an immersive experience for both locals and tourists.

Tan Dun’s personal involvement in the festival highlights the cultural significance of this event. He has brought together a diverse group of artists, with musicians and dancers from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas collaborating on the performance. This fusion of local and international talent promises to deliver a truly memorable cultural spectacle.

The open-air performance, held against the magnificent coastal and mountainous scenery of Yan Chau Tong, is expected to captivate attendees and further elevate the region’s reputation as a prime destination for cultural tourism. The interaction of music, dance, and nature will create a powerful sensory experience that underscores Hong Kong’s commitment to promoting both artistic and environmental conservation.

The Role of Yan Chau Tong and the Festival’s Conservation Message

The venue itself, Yan Chau Tong, plays a crucial role in the event’s ecological message. Recognised by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment as an “Outstanding Example of Beautiful Bays,” Yan Chau Tong’s unspoiled beauty provides a fitting backdrop for an event that celebrates nature. The festival’s organisers are keen to raise awareness about the conservation importance of the region, urging visitors to appreciate its natural beauty while also recognising the need to protect it for future generations.

This aligns with Hong Kong’s broader push to balance urban development with environmental sustainability, ensuring that nature is preserved even as tourism grows. The festival is an excellent platform to highlight these conservation efforts, reinforcing the message that tourism can serve as both a driver of economic growth and a tool for environmental education.

On-site Concert and Accessibility for Visitors

While the online broadcast will cater to a global audience, there is also an opportunity for the public to experience the live concert on-site. From 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm on 1 March 2026, the performance will be open to visitors, with an on-site live concert session held outdoors. Visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring their own food and water for the occasion.

Transportation to the event will be available via regular kaito ferry services operating from Ma Liu Shui and Sha Tau Kok to Lai Chi Wo. In addition, complimentary ferry services will run between Sha Tau Kok and Lai Chi Wo on the event day, providing a convenient and sustainable mode of travel for attendees. Tickets for the ferry ride will be available free of charge, with 250 seats per sailing. They can be reserved through the official website starting from 20 February 2026.

For attendees boarding at Sha Tau Kok, it is important to note that a valid Sha Tau Kok Frontier Closed Area Permit is required. Applications for this permit must be submitted through the Hong Kong Police e-Services system at least two working days before the event date.

Boosting Tourism and Promoting Hong Kong’s Cultural Identity

The Countryside Harvest Festival 2026 is set to become a key event in Hong Kong’s cultural tourism calendar. With its combination of world-class music, dance, and breathtaking natural scenery, the festival will not only celebrate the artistic achievements of Hong Kong and its international collaborators but also drive tourism to the New Territories, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and unspoiled landscapes.

The festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with both local and international tourists in a meaningful way, connecting them with Hong Kong’s cultural identity and natural beauty. The event will highlight the importance of conservation while showcasing the region as a vibrant, artistic, and ecologically responsible destination for travellers from around the world.

In addition, the live broadcast of the event ensures that Hong Kong’s cultural tourism message extends far beyond its borders. As more people around the world are introduced to Hong Kong’s natural and artistic treasures, the event promises to boost the city’s profile on the global stage.

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India Tourism Honours Dekho Apna Desh Winners, Hosting Hospitality Education Expo In Goa: Here’s What You Need To Know

24 February 2026 at 01:28
India Tourism Honours Dekho Apna Desh Winners, Hosting Hospitality Education Expo In Goa: Here’s What You Need To Know

The seaside tourism hub of Goa played host to a dynamic blend of awards, skill workshops and career guidance as India Tourism, under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, organised the Dekho Apna Desh Brochure Making Contest award ceremony alongside a Hospitality Education Expo at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Goa, Porvorim, on 18 February 2026. Students, parents and teachers experienced the campus transform into a showcase of India’s tourism diversity and hospitality careers, creating a warm, aspirational atmosphere around the country’s visitor economy.

Celebration of young tourism storytellers

The event, conducted through India Tourism’s regional set‑up, recognised student teams whose brochure designs creatively promoted domestic destinations in line with the Ministry’s Dekho Apna Desh vision of encouraging Indians to explore their own country. Participants were felicitated for imaginative layouts, compelling narratives and the ability to package local culture, heritage and experiences into travel‑ready collateral aimed at inspiring real journeys across India.

Officials noted that the contest complements wider Ministry efforts such as Incredible India and Utsav portals, which collectively spotlight destinations, festivals and experiences to enhance India’s appeal for both domestic and international travellers. The contest format also nudges schools to integrate tourism awareness into co‑curricular activities, giving students an early sense of how creative communication can influence travel decisions.

Industry leaders champion experiential learning

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), attended as Chief Guest and underlined that experiential learning and hands‑on exposure are crucial if students are to shape the next generation of Goa and India’s tourism offerings. He was stated to have encouraged learners to view national tourism initiatives as platforms to contribute ideas rather than just observe from the sidelines.

Shri Mohamed Farouk, Deputy Director General and Regional Director (West & Central Region), Ministry of Tourism, highlighted that platforms such as the Hospitality Education Expo help nurture skilled professionals who can support the Ministry’s broader mandate of developing and promoting tourism across the country. His remarks indicated that bridging classroom learning with industry expectations will be central to sustaining quality standards and visitor satisfaction across Indian destinations.

Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing & IT), GTDC, joined as Guest of Honour, reinforcing the role of strategic marketing, digital presence and product development in keeping Goa competitive as a year‑round tourism destination.

Hospitality Education Expo: campus meets real‑world tourism

The Hospitality Education Expo at IHM Goa gave attendees an interactive window into how hospitality skills translate into guest experiences at hotels, cruises and tourism enterprises across India. Representatives from prominent brands such as Indian Hotels Company Limited, The Park Hotels, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Carnival Support Services India Pvt. Ltd. engaged directly with students, sharing insights on emerging trends, service excellence and global career pathways.

Beyond booth interactions, the Expo emphasised practical demonstrations: sessions on flower arrangement, terrarium making and towel art showcased the detailed craftsmanship that underpins memorable stays in hotels and resorts. These workshops helped students appreciate how small, thoughtful touches contribute significantly to guest satisfaction and repeat travel, a core objective of India’s tourism strategy.

Clear academic pathways into tourism careers

A focused presentation explained the role of the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) in standardising hospitality education across India, along with course options at IHM and the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) route into the system. Speakers outlined how structured programmes in hotel management, tourism and allied services can lead to roles across front office operations, culinary arts, travel trade, cruise operations and destination management.

The discussion aligned with the Ministry of Tourism’s emphasis on skilling and capacity building through dedicated divisions that support human resource development and quality enhancement in the sector. Students and parents were given a realistic view of progression from classroom to internship to full‑time roles in hotels, tourism boards and travel companies, linking education choices directly with the growth of India’s visitor economy.

Strengthening India’s tourism ecosystem from Goa

Nearly 250 students, along with parents, teachers, Ministry officials and industry representatives, participated in the programme, turning the IHM Goa campus into a microcosm of India’s wider tourism ecosystem for a day. By combining recognition of young ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ brochure creators with immersive exposure to hospitality education and industry trends, the initiative reinforced Goa’s image as not just a leisure destination but also a hub nurturing future tourism professionals.

The participants developed deeper emotional ties to various Indian destinations while understanding their potential contributions to the tourism industry through their roles as storytellers, hoteliers, tour designers, and destination managers. The Ministry of Tourism continues its work to establish tourism as a fundamental element of national development through its ongoing initiatives.

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JetBlue Faces Widespread Travel Turmoil with 778 Flight Cancellations and 30 New Delays, Affecting Major Airports in United States, France, Dominican Republic and Beyond

24 February 2026 at 01:25
JetBlue Faces Widespread Travel Turmoil with 778 Flight Cancellations and 30 New Delays, Affecting Major Airports in United States, France, Dominican Republic and Beyond
JetBlue

JetBlue is currently facing widespread travel turmoil, with 778 flight cancellations and 30 new delays disrupting travel plans for countless passengers. The severe disruptions have impacted major airports across the United States, France, the Dominican Republic, and beyond. This turmoil comes as a result of severe storms affecting the U.S., along with operational bottlenecks and staffing issues that have compounded the situation. Passengers flying through key hubs like John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York and Boston Logan (BOS) are experiencing lengthy delays and cancellations, with flights to destinations like Paris and Santiago also heavily impacted.

Travelers are urged to stay updated on their flight status and check for rebooking options. The ripple effect of these cancellations is being felt across various international routes, making it crucial for passengers to stay informed as the airline works to restore normal operations.

Travel Disruption Hits Multiple Destinations: JetBlue Flights Severely Affected

JetBlue has been significantly impacted by widespread disruptions, with a large number of flight cancellations and delays across various routes. Passengers planning to fly with the airline are facing extensive delays, as well as cancelled flights, particularly affecting major airports in the United States and international destinations. This disruption has caused severe inconvenience for travellers across a variety of destinations, and with the number of affected flights continuing to rise, passengers are left in uncertainty about their next steps.

Total Delays and Cancellations: The Scale of the Impact

JetBlue has experienced a total of 778 cancelled flights, which represents a staggering 81% of its total scheduled departures. Additionally, 30 flights were delayed, accounting for 3% of the airline’s total flights. These cancellations and delays have disrupted both domestic and international services, severely affecting passengers’ travel plans.

Airports, Cities, and Countries Affected

JetBlue’s operations at key airports have been hit the hardest, with multiple U.S. cities and international destinations being impacted. Some of the most severely affected airports include:

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City, which saw a high number of cancellations and delays across various routes. This airport serves as a major hub for JetBlue and has connections to numerous U.S. and international destinations.
  • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), another major base for JetBlue, also faced significant cancellations, particularly on flights to and from domestic locations like Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, as well as international destinations.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) was similarly affected, with numerous delays on routes to and from New York City.
  • Internationally, airports like Charles de Gaulle in Paris (CDG) and Cibao International Airport (STI) in the Dominican Republic were also affected by JetBlue’s disruptions, highlighting the reach of the disruption beyond the United States.

Affected Passengers: What Can You Do Now?

If you are among the affected passengers, here’s what you can do:

  1. Check for Alternate Flights: Given the large number of cancellations, passengers should immediately check JetBlue’s official website or mobile app for rebooking options. The airline may offer alternative flights to your destination, or in some cases, waive change fees for affected travellers.
  2. Customer Service and Refunds: For those unable to secure a new flight or who prefer to cancel their trip, JetBlue offers customer service options for refunds. Make sure to contact their customer support team through their helpline or online chat for assistance with refund requests or compensation for your disrupted travel.
  3. Stay Updated: Given that the situation remains fluid, passengers are advised to stay updated with the latest information from JetBlue regarding further cancellations or delays. Monitoring airport displays and signing up for flight status alerts can help you stay informed in real-time.
  4. Accommodation and Meal Assistance: In the case of long delays or overnight cancellations, JetBlue may offer accommodation or meal vouchers to affected passengers. Ensure you inquire about available options upon contacting customer support or at the airport.

Analysis: Why Are Passengers Affected?

The primary reason for this widespread disruption remains unclear, but several factors could be contributing. Severe weather conditions, operational bottlenecks, or even staffing shortages may be at the root of these delays and cancellations. Passengers flying during peak travel periods, especially over weekends, are also likely experiencing greater impacts due to the higher number of flights.

Key Takeaways

With 778 cancellations and 30 delays impacting major airports and cities both in the U.S. and internationally, JetBlue passengers are experiencing severe travel disruptions. As the situation develops, it is critical to stay in touch with the airline and act promptly to secure alternative flights or refunds. Understanding your rights as a passenger and knowing the steps to take can help ease the frustration caused by these unexpected disruptions.

Source: FlightAware

Image Credit: JetBlue

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Thousands of Travellers Stranded at Punta Cana, Las Américas, and Cibao International Airport in Dominican Republic as 45 Flights Are Delayed and 95 Cancelled Disrupting Aeromexico, Viva, Aerobus, Interjet and Major US and Caribbean Routes

24 February 2026 at 01:21
Thousands of Travellers Stranded at Punta Cana, Las Américas, and Cibao International Airport in Dominican Republic as 45 Flights Are Delayed and 95 Cancelled Disrupting Aeromexico, Viva, Aerobus, Interjet and Major US and Caribbean Routes
Dominican Republic airports report 45 delays and 95 cancellations, disrupting Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Santiago travel routes.

Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Santiago, Dominican Republic — Travelers across the Dominican Republic faced a day of mounting uncertainty after three of the country’s main international airports recorded a combined 45 delays and 95 cancellations, creating widespread disruption across Caribbean and US-bound routes. For many passengers, what began as routine travel quickly turned into hours of waiting, rebooking, and recalculating plans.

From honeymooners bound for Punta Cana’s resorts to Dominican families returning from overseas visits, the disruption reshaped itineraries and raised fresh concerns about aviation resilience during high-demand travel periods.

Punta Cana International Airport Sees Highest Delay Volume

At Punta Cana International Airport, the nation’s busiest tourism hub, authorities reported 34 delays and 32 cancellations. As the primary arrival point for international leisure travelers, Punta Cana’s operational health is closely tied to the Dominican Republic’s tourism-driven economy.

The airport handles a substantial share of arrivals from the United States, Canada, and Europe. When cancellations occur at this scale, the effects extend beyond terminals — hotel transfers, excursion bookings, and cruise connections often require last-minute adjustments.

According to the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism, Punta Cana consistently ranks as the country’s top gateway for international visitors. Any disruption here reverberates quickly through the hospitality sector.

Las Américas International Airport Faces Capital Connectivity Strain

At Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo, officials recorded 8 delays and 31 cancellations. Serving the capital city, Las Américas plays a dual role in both business and tourism travel.

As the primary airport for government, diplomatic, and corporate travel, cancellations at Las Américas can affect regional trade and administrative movement. Aviation authorities including the Junta de Aviación Civil (JAC) and the Instituto Dominicano de Aviación Civil (IDAC) oversee regulatory compliance and operational standards at the airport.

Government aviation guidance frequently emphasizes that schedule irregularities may result from aircraft rotation challenges, crew logistics, airspace coordination, or weather conditions affecting origin or destination airports.

Cibao International Airport Records High Cancellation Ratio

In Santiago, Cibao International Airport reported 3 delays and 32 cancellations, marking one of the highest cancellation ratios among the three hubs.

Cibao serves northern Dominican communities and is particularly important for the Dominican diaspora traveling between the island and major US cities. A high cancellation count here disproportionately impacts returning residents and family travelers.

Because many diaspora routes operate on limited weekly frequencies, rebooking options may be more constrained compared to larger hubs, extending passenger inconvenience.

Government Oversight and Aviation Stability

The Dominican Republic’s aviation framework operates under the supervision of IDAC and JAC, both responsible for ensuring safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

While authorities have not indicated any systemic safety issue, aviation experts explain that disruption clusters often stem from interconnected factors including:

  • Aircraft scheduling constraints
  • Air traffic congestion at international hubs
  • Weather disturbances in connecting cities
  • Crew availability and duty-time regulations

Given the Dominican Republic’s heavy reliance on North American routes, operational challenges abroad can cascade into Caribbean schedules rapidly.

Tourism and Economic Ripple Effects

Tourism represents a cornerstone of the Dominican economy. When airports experience elevated cancellations, hotels, transport providers, and tour operators feel the secondary effects.

Travel advisors note that passengers arriving after long delays often shorten excursions or adjust resort bookings. Short-stay travelers may lose significant vacation time due to overnight rerouting.

Despite these challenges, industry analysts stress that the Dominican Republic has historically demonstrated strong operational recovery after disruption events. Punta Cana’s public-private airport model has invested heavily in terminal upgrades and capacity enhancements in recent years.

Travel Advisory for Passengers

Aviation authorities recommend that travelers:

  • Confirm flight status before leaving for the airport
  • Allow additional buffer time for connections
  • Monitor airline notifications closely
  • Review flexible change or rebooking policies
  • Consider travel insurance for interruption coverage

Passengers traveling in the coming days are encouraged to remain proactive as airlines reposition aircraft and stabilize scheduling flows.

A Personal Impact Beyond the Numbers

Behind the combined 140 disruptions are personal stories — families waiting at departure gates, children growing restless in terminals, and couples adjusting milestone celebrations.

Air travel remains one of the most complex logistical systems in the modern world, dependent on synchronized coordination across countries and time zones. When even one segment falters, the ripple travels quickly.

As operations gradually normalize, travelers across Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Santiago hope for steadier departure boards and smoother journeys ahead. For a nation whose economy and global connection rely so heavily on aviation, restoring rhythm to its runways is more than operational recovery — it is a return to momentum.

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Samsung announces Galaxy Book 6 lineup arrival in the US on March 11

24 February 2026 at 01:04

Samsung has officially announced that its new Galaxy Book 6 series will be available in the US starting March 11, 2026. The lineup includes the Galaxy Book 6 Ultra, Galaxy Book 6 Pro, and Galaxy Book 6.

The Galaxy Book 6 series is designed to be faster, smarter, and easier to carry, making them great for work, school, and everyday use. It uses the new Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors to help the laptops run smoothly and quickly. You can open apps fast, switch between tasks easily, and enjoy better overall performance.

Samsung has also improved the cooling system. The Galaxy Book 6 Ultra has a bigger cooling system to keep the laptop from getting too hot. For the first time, the Galaxy Book 6 Pro 16-inch also has a cooling system like this. This helps the laptops stay cool and work well, even when you use them for a long time.

Samsung Galaxy Book 6 Laptops

Source – Samsung

The Galaxy Book 6 Ultra and Galaxy Book 6 Pro can play videos for up to 30 hours on one charge. This means you can use them all day without worrying about charging.

The laptops are thin and light, so they are easy to carry in a bag. The Galaxy Book6 Ultra is 15.4mm thick, and the Galaxy Book6 Pro 16-inch is even thinner at 11.9mm. They also have a clean and modern design in a grey color.

Prices start at $2,449.99 for the Ultra, $1,599.99 for the Pro, and $1,049.99 for the Galaxy Book 6. Customers can reserve them now on Samsung’s website or in stores.

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7 Samsung flagships getting February 2026 security patch

24 February 2026 at 00:31

Samsung has begun rolling out its February 2026 security update for seven of its flagship Galaxy devices. These devices are Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, Galaxy Z TriFold, Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy S24 FE.

The latest update improves security, stability, and overall performance, helping these devices run more smoothly and stay protected against vulnerabilities. The update is currently live for users in Korea and will expand to more countries soon.

The update for these 7 Samsung flagship phones comes with the following firmware versions:

  • Galaxy Z Fold 7 – F966NKSS8AZB2
  • Galaxy Z Flip 7 – F766NKSS8AZB2
  • Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE – F761NKSS8AZB2
  • Galaxy Z TriFold – F968NKSS3AZB2
  • Galaxy Z Flip 6 – F741NKSS3CZB2
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6 – F956NKSS2CYKE
  • Galaxy S24 FE – S721NKSSACZB2
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

As per the official details, this update brings 37 security fixes in total. 25 come from Google for Android, while 12 are provided by Samsung. It also improves system stability and reliability, clears unnecessary files and cached data, and may update some stock apps automatically.

To install the update, open the Settings app, go to Software update, and tap Download and install. After the download finishes, tap Install now to apply the update. Installing it ensures your device stays secure and performs at its best. Also, it makes your Galaxy device ready for the upcoming update, which includes One UI 8.5.

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New Casio Edifice slim metal bezel watches coming to Europe

24 February 2026 at 01:04
Casio has listed new Edifice EFR-575 series watches at its online stores in various European countries. The EFR-575D-4A, the EFR-575C-8A and the EFR-575CL-5A each have a gradated dial, surrounded by a slim metal bezel. Features of the water resistant model include a 1-second stopwatch and a basic date display.

Major shake-up at Xbox: Insider speaks of historic job cuts and a “dagger” in the console’s back

After the unexpected leadership shake-up at Xbox, an alleged insider leak is adding to the uncertainty. While new chief Asha Sharma has promised a renewed focus on creativity and hardware following the departures of Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond, the source warns of large-scale layoffs and a bleak future for the Xbox console.

Ex-President's shift away from Xbox consoles to cloud gaming reportedly caused friction

23 February 2026 at 23:42
Former Xbox President, Sarah Bond, may have championed the criticized This Is an Xbox initiative. In a report from The Verge, co-workers shared concerns about the devaluing of Xbox consoles. New Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma hinted that the company realizes the importance of first-party hardware.

Samsung led European smartphone market in 2025, Apple and Honor grew the most in the Top 5

24 February 2026 at 00:01

According to a new release by Omdia, Samsung led the European smartphone market (excluding Russia) in 2025, with 46.6 million units shipped and a 35% market share. Apple was in second with 36.9 million units and 27% market share, followed by Xiaomi with 21.8 million shipments and a 16% slice of the pie, Motorola with 7.7 million units shipped and 6% market share, and Honor reaching the Top 5 for the first time with 3.8 million devices shipped for a 3% market share. Interestingly, Apple and Honor were the only Top 5 brands actually growing in Europe compared to 2024, by 6% and 4%,...

Arsenal TV Schedule: View the Gunners Games On TV

24 February 2026 at 01:29
Arsenal TV schedule and streaming links For supporters of Arsenal in the United States, keeping track of Mikel Arteta’s squad is essential as the Gunners compete across multiple domestic and European fronts. Whether they are playing at the world-class Emirates Stadium or traveling for a Tuesday night Champions League fixture, this is your definitive guide […]

Arsenal TV schedule and streaming links

For supporters of Arsenal in the United States, keeping track of Mikel Arteta’s squad is essential as the Gunners compete across multiple domestic and European fronts. Whether they are playing at the world-class Emirates Stadium or traveling for a Tuesday night Champions League fixture, this is your definitive guide to finding Arsenal on US television and streaming.

Arsenal: At a Glance

  • Manager: Mikel Arteta
  • Stadium: Emirates Stadium (London, England)
  • Major Honors: 13 League Titles, 14 FA Cups
  • Key Players: Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Viktor Gyökeres

Where to Watch Arsenal Matches in the US

The broadcasting landscape for the 2025/26 season is split across several platforms. To ensure you never miss a kickoff, here is where each competition lives:

Premier League (NBC, USA Network, Peacock)

As one of the “Big Six,” Arsenal is a staple of NBC’s weekly coverage.

  • Peacock: Approximately half of Arsenal’s 38 league matches are exclusive to Peacock. This includes both weekend and midweek fixtures.
  • USA Network & NBC: The most high-profile “Game of the Week” matchups typically air on these cable channels.
    • DirecTV Stream: Offers the most “traditional” channel-surfing experience and includes both NBC and USA Network in its base packages.
    • Sling Blue: Often the most cost-effective way to get USA Network and NBC (available in select major markets).
    • Hulu + Live TV: A comprehensive option that includes NBC and USA Network. A major perk here is that it often includes ESPN+ in the bundle, which you’ll need for Arsenal’s FA Cup matches.
  • Telemundo & Universo: These networks provide Spanish-language coverage for selected Premier League games.

UEFA Champions League (Paramount+, ViX)

Arsenal’s European journey is broadcast through CBS Sports.

  • Paramount+: Every Champions League match, from the League Phase through to the Final, is streamed live in English.
  • ViX: The home for Spanish-language streaming of the Champions League.

FA Cup (ESPN+)

The Gunners are the most successful club in FA Cup history. In the US, every round of this tournament is found exclusively on ESPN+.

Carabao Cup (Paramount+)

The League Cup (Carabao Cup) is broadcast via CBS/Paramount. Most Arsenal fixtures in this competition will stream on Paramount+.

The Arsenal Squad

Under the leadership of Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal squad has evolved into one of the most technical and resilient units in world football.

The team is built around a core of world-class talent, including Martin Ødegaard, whose vision dictates the tempo of the game, and homegrown star Bukayo Saka. The 2025/26 season has also seen the integration of marquee signings like Viktor Gyökeres and Martín Zubimendi, who have added clinical finishing and midfield stability respectively.

Defensively, the partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães remains the foundation of the team, supported by versatile internationals like Riccardo Calafiori and Jurriën Timber.

Lionel Messi’s star Argentina teammate reveals who he ranks above them ahead of 2026 World Cup

24 February 2026 at 01:01
One of Lionel Messi's star teammates in Argentina revealed the which national team he sees above them ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Lionel Messi will carry the responsibility of leading Argentina as defending champions into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Albiceleste still regarded as one of the strongest national teams in the world. However, one of Messi’s national-team teammates recently shared his candid opinion on which side he currently ranks above them with less than five months until the tournament begins.

Despite being world champions and back-to-back Copa América winners, several Argentine stars have struggled to replicate that success at club level, particularly in Europe. One of the few exceptions has been Alexis Mac Allister, now a key figure for Liverpool, helping the club win last season’s Premier League title.

Also an integral piece of Argentina’s national team, Mac Allister spoke with YouTubers Agusneta and Teo D’Elia about the upcoming Finalissima against Spain, scheduled for March 27: “At that time, the Finalissima with Italy wasn’t talked about much. But the fact of going back to Qatar… it’s going to be nice.

Asked whether Argentina or Spain currently deserve the title of best national team, the midfielder offered a frank assessment. “Right now, I see Spain above us. I think Spain and France are the two best, and we’re up there too,” he stated. “I feel like they’re in a very good moment. Obviously, playing a World Cup isn’t the same as playing qualifiers, whether in South America or Europe,” he added.

Alexis Mac Allister of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team's third goal during the South of American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier between Argentina and Brazil.
Alexis Mac Allister of Argentina celebrates after scoring.

After Argentina’s dominant 3-0 win over Italy in the last Finalissima, Mac Allister also suggested the next edition won’t be as straightforward. “But they have very good players, they’re in a good moment, and it’s going to be difficult,” he said, while also stressing confidence in his own side: “We’re confident — we’re moving forward.

So far in the 2025-26 season, Mac Allister has experienced a dip alongside the rest of Liverpool’s squad, with the club currently sitting sixth in the league, recording four goals and four assists in 38 appearances across all competitions. Still, the Argentine star remains one of the few players virtually guaranteed a place alongside Messi, not only for the Finalissima but also for the 2026 World Cup.

Will Argentina feel the lack of competitiveness?

Argentina dominated the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first national team to secure a berth and finishing top of the standings with 38 points from 18 matches, nine ahead of second-place Ecuador. Spain, meanwhile, enter the Finalissima in strong form and with more recent high-level competitive minutes.

European qualifiers took place in September, October, and November, with Spain topping their group with five wins and one draw. By contrast, during the October and November international windows, Argentina played only three friendlies (against Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Angola) matches far less demanding than what they will face at the World Cup, especially with the Finalissima looming as their next major test.

Lionel Messi of Argentina.

Marcus Rashford future seems complex as Barcelona reportedly target a Premier League star as stellar reinforcement

24 February 2026 at 00:13
Despite his impressive scoring and creative output, Marcus Rashford would face serious difficulties in continuing at Barcelona. Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, the Blaugranas are reportedly targeting a Premier League star, which would complicate the Englishman’s signing.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Hansi Flick has led Barcelona to establish themselves as one of the most dominant attacking sides. Not only has Raphinha delivered an impressive goal-scoring level, but so have Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford. As a result, the Englishman has caught the attention for a potential permanent transfer. However, the Blaugranas are reportedly targeting a Premier League star as well, opening up other possibilities.

Despite establishing himself as one of the team’s best players, Marcus Rashford does not appear to have his future at Barcelona fully secured. In order to sign the Englishman on a permanent deal, the Blaugrana are looking to reduce the value of his purchase option, while the Red Devils seem reluctant to do so, as they are not ruling out giving him continuity under Michael Carrick. In light of this, they are reportedly setting their sights on a Manchester City star.

According to El Nacional Cat, the Blaugrana are targeting Savinho, who has been shining at Manchester City. For Hansi Flick, the Brazilian is key in terms of dribbling, one-on-one ability, change of pace and breaking down compact defenses, fitting the profile better than Rashford. To approve his departure, Pep Guardiola’s side would have set a price of €45 million — around €10 million more than Marcus’ purchase option.

Even though Savinho has caught Barcelona’s attention, the Brazilian has not managed to impress in the Premier League in terms of impact. In the 2025–26 season, he has only scored two goals and provided three assists in 23 matches. His current form is far from that of Marcus Rashford, who has settled in by scoring 10 goals and delivering 13 assists in 34 matches for the Blaugranas, offering more certainty than the 21-year-old star.

Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, reacts alongside Savinho.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, reacts alongside Savinho.

Not only Savinho: Barcelona reportedly eye LaLiga rising star for 2026-27

Looking toward the future, Barcelona appears to be targeting a long-term signing for the left wing, as Raphinha is already 29 years old. Because of this, a permanent move for Rashford seems complicated, since he is already 28 and would not represent a bet on the future. In this context, the option of signing Savinho gains traction, given his impressive projection. However, the Blaugranas are also reportedly targeting a young star from LaLiga.

According to Diario Sport, the Blaugranas are closely monitoring the progress of Jan Virgili, who joined RCD Mallorca this season after leaving Barcelona Atlètic. Although they transferred him, they retain a 40% stake in any future sale, making his potential return more feasible. Hansi Flick sees his arrival as a positive step, as Virgili is an academy-trained talent already making an impact in LaLiga, indicating a promising future.

Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona.

Netflix officially announces Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao 2 with date and venue

24 February 2026 at 01:30

Following reports that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao were close to finalising a deal for a rematch, the fight has now been made official. Mayweather and Pacquiao fought in 2015 following around six years of demand for the match-up. Mayweather won a unanimous decision and would go on to retire undefeated two years later. Pacquiao […]

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Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao rematch date and location reported

24 February 2026 at 00:20

and look set to do battle once again. It was announced on Friday that Mayweather plans to return to professional boxing later this year, following his exhibition with Mike Tyson, which is reported to take place in the Congo in April. Another exhibition bout that has been recently announced is a clash between Pacquiao and […]

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Dursun Özbek'e çifte savaş! Dışarıda TFF, içeride muhalefet

Konya deplasmanında alınan 2-0'lık mağlubiyet Galatasaray'da taşları yerinden oynattı. TFF ile girilen demeç savaşları camiayı tatmin etmedi. Muhalefet, Konya'ya giden yöneticilerin 'Hak yeniliyorsa Konya'da neden sustunuz?' diye eleştirdi. Başkan Dursun Özbek de tepkilerden hesabına düşeni aldı.

Galatasaray’ın Konya deplasmanından 2-0’lık mağlubiyetle dönmesi, sarı-kırmızılı camiada sadece puan kaybına değil yönetim krizine de yol açtı. Maçın ardından hakem kararları üzerinden TFF ile "demeç savaşları" başlasa da, camia içindeki muhalefet faturayı yönetime kesti.

Yönetim Konya’da yaşanan puan kaybını "haksızlığa uğradık" argümanıyla savundu. TFF ile kulüp arasında sert açıklamalar havada uçuştu. Ancak bu hamleler muhalefeti tatmin etmedi. Muhalif sesler yönetimin haksızlıklara karşı yerinde ve anında tepki veremediğini savunuyor.

Konya'ya giden yöneticilerin haksızlık olduğuna inanıyorlarsa maç sonunda neden konuşmadıkları sorgulandı. Genel Sekreter Eray Yazgan’a yönelik sezon başındaki tatil organizasyonlarının sadece belirli "liseli" arkadaşlara verildiği ve diğer ajansların neden devre dışı bırakıldığı dedikodularının ayyıka çıktığı iddia edildi.

Muhalefet, faturanın sadece teknik direktör Okan Buruk’a kesilmesine de karşı çıkıyor. Eleştirilerin odağındaki isimler ise Başkan Dursun Özbek ve Metin Öztürk var.

Galatasaray Başkanı Dursun Özbek'in neden deplasmanlara gitmediği sorgulanıyor. Gitmiyorsa da GS TV’yi evine çağırıp açıklama yapması gerektiğinin altı çiziliyor. Yönetimin bütün hesabı 'Okan Buruk’a iyi takım verdik' diyerek teknik heyete yıkmasının haksızlık olduğu iddia ediliyor.

Juventus'un gözü Okan Buruk'ta! Spaletti'nin yerini alacak

Juventus'ta Luciano Spalletti'nin koltuğu sallantıda. Şampiyonlar Ligi'ndeki 5-2'lik Galatasaray şoku ve ligdeki kötü gidişatın ardından yönetim düğmeye bastı. Kaderi Galatasaray ve Roma maçlarına bağlı olan İtalyan hocanın koltuğu için adaylar arasında Okan Buruk'un adı da dikkat çekiyor.

Juventus yönetimi, son 5 resmi maçında galibiyet yüzü göremeyen Luciano Spalletti'ye son bir şans tanıdı. İtalyan teknik adamın geleceği, bu hafta oynanacak iki kritik karşılaşmaya endekslenmiş durumda.

1: Galatasaray ile oynanacak Şampiyonlar Ligi rövanşı. İlk maçtaki 5-2'lik ağır yenilginin ardından tur için mucize aranıyor.

2: Serie A'da oynanacak AS Roma karşılaşması. Ligde ilk 4 yarışından kopmamak adına bu derbi hayati önem taşıyor.

İddialara göre bu iki maçtan beklenen sonuçlar (turun geçilmesi veya ligde galibiyet) gelmese dahi yönetim, sezon ortasında bir kaos yaşamamak adına Spalletti'nin görevine hemen son vermeyebilir. Ancak bu durum, Spalletti’nin "sezon sonu gidici" olduğu gerçeğini değiştirmez. Yönetim tecrübeli hocayla gelecek sezon yola devam etmeme konusunda karar alır. Arayışlara başlar.

İddianın en dikkat çeken kısmı ise Juventus yönetiminin yeni teknik direktör arayışlarıyla ilgili. Galatasaray'ın başında sergilediği performans ve Juventus'a karşı alınan 5-2'lik net galibiyet, Okan Buruk'un ismini Torino devinin listesine soktu.

Juventus yönetiminin, Spalletti sonrası dönem için Okan Buruk ile temas kurabileceği veya en azından hocanın durumunu yakından takip edeceği ileri sürülüyor.

İtalyan medyası, Buruk'un modern oyun anlayışının ve Galatasaray'daki başarılarının Juventus yönetiminin "yeni nesil teknik adam" profiline uyduğunu belirtiyor.

Spalletti için kum saati dolmak üzere. Galatasaray rövanşı sadece bir Avrupa maçı değil, aynı zamanda Juventus'un gelecek planlamasında Okan Buruk isminin ne kadar ciddileşeceğini belirleyecek bir "vitrin" sınavı olacak.

Fenerbahçe'nin kaybedilen puanın faturası ona kesildi

Fenerbahçe Kasımpaşa karşısında beklediği galibiyeti alamadı. Son dakikalarda öne geçse de son saniyelerde yediği golle berabere kaldı. Fatura ise stoperlere kesildi.

Fenerbahçe'nin düşme hattındaki Kasımpaşa ile berabere kalması taraftarları çileden çıkardı. Galatasaray'ın puan kaybettiği bir haftada yine ayağına gelen şansı değerlendiremeyen sarı-lacivertlilerde fatura stoperlere kesildi.

Sakat olduğu için maç kadrosunda yer almayan Milan Skriniar'ın yokluğunda Fenerbahçe sahaya Çağlar Söyüncü ve Jayden Oosterwolde ile çıktı. Ancak önce 23. dakikada Çağlar Söyüncü, 40. dakikada da Jayden Oosterwolde sakatlanarak oyundan alındı.

Bu zorunlu değişiklikler maçın akışını da değiştirdi. Stoper mevkisine Yiğit Efe ve Guendouzi geçti. Fenerbahçe özellikle ikinci yarı rakip ceza sahasına yüklendikçe yüklendi ancak aynı zamanda kendi bireysel hatalarla kalesinde tehlikeler de yaşadı.

Ve uzatma dakikalarında Asensio ile öne geçmeyi başaran Fenerbahçe bu skoru koruyamadı ve sadece 6 dakika sonra kalesinde golü gördü.

Fenerbahçeli taraftarlar da sosyal medyada en çok iyi bir stoper almayan yönetime sitem etti. Özellikle Skriniar'ın oynamadığı haftada maçın daha 23. dakikasında sakatlanan Çağlar Söyüncü'ye büyük tepki gösterdi.

TFF'de Galatasaray depremi! İstifalar gündemde

TFF'de Galatasaray depremi büyüyor. Resmi hesaptan yapılan paylaşımlar bardağı taşırdı! Riva koridorlarında profesyonellerin bile 'fake' sandığı skandal sonrası istifa sesleri yükseldi. Başkan İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu'nun 'Kurtlar Vadisi' tarzı yönetim anlayışı sarı-kırmızılı camiayı ayağa kaldırdı. TFF'nin alenen taraf tuttuğu iddiaları daha da artmaya başladı.

Türk futbolu, TFF'nin resmi sosyal medya hesabından yapılan son paylaşımın yankılarıyla sarsılıyor. Riva kulislerinden gelen bilgilere göre, Galatasaray camiasının büyük tepkisini çeken bu gelişme sonrası TFF içerisinde "Galatasaraylı" olarak bilinen isimlerin istifası gündemde.

TFF içindeki birçok profesyonel ve yönetici, kurumun kurumsal kimliğinden uzaklaşan bu paylaşım karşısında şoke olmuş durumda. İddialara göre, TFF çalışanlarının %80’i ilk etapta paylaşımı "hacklenme" veya "sahte içerik" sandı. Açıklamanın resmi hesaptan paylaşılması, kurum içindeki liyakat tartışmalarını da alevlendirdi.

Başkan İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu’nun yönetim tarzı, Galatasaray çevrelerinde "Kurtlar Vadisi" benzetmelerine yol açtı. Baskıların dozajı artmaya başladı.

- Fenerbahçe ve Beşiktaş hakemlere tepki gösterdiğinde sessiz kalan TFF, neden sadece Galatasaray söz konusu olduğunda "taraf" gibi hareket ediyor?

- "Delikanlılık" ve "yerlilik" vurgusu yapıp, ilk fırsatta yabancı hakem getirmek ne kadar tutarlı?

Sarı-kırmızılı camiaya göre tarihte ilk kez bir federasyon, bir kulübü bu kadar aleni şekilde hedef alıyor.

Şampiyonlar Ligi maç günü yapılan basın toplantıları ve hakem yorumcusu edasıyla canlı yayınlarda kulübü eleştiren bir TFF yapısının, Türk futbolunda kutuplaşmayı zirveye taşıdığı vurgulanıyor.

Stoper gelecekti Murillo geldi! Beşiktaş krizi fırsata çevirdi

Beşiktaş'ın Göztepe galibiyetinde başrolü oynayan Amir Murillo'nun transfer öyküsü, tam bir strateji savaşına sahne oldu. Siyah-beyazlılar stoper için masadayken, Marsilya'da De Zerbi ile köprüleri atan Panamalı yıldızı bir telefonla renklerine bağladı. Sergen Yalçın'ın "Planımızda yoktu, fırsat transferiydi" dediği o tarihi restin tüm detayları gün yüzüne çıktı.

Göztepe maçındaki performansıyla alkış toplayan Amir Murillo’nun Beşiktaş’a transfer hikayesi, tam bir "film senaryosu" tadında çıktı.

Transfer döneminin kapanmasına sadece 2 gün kala, Marsilya Teknik Direktörü Roberto De Zerbi, takıma bir mesaj vermek amacıyla Amir Murillo’yu kadro dışı bıraktı. Bu beklenmedik gelişme, Beşiktaş Sportif Direktörü Serkan Reçber’in radarına anında takıldı.

murillo

Aslında Beşiktaş’ın gündeminde başka bir Marsilyalı isim (stoper CJ Egan-Riley) vardı. Ancak Marsilya cephesinden gelen "De Zerbi, Murillo'yu kadro dışı bıraktı, ister misiniz?" mesajı her şeyi değiştirdi.

Serkan Reçber, vakit kaybetmeden Murillo’nun numarasını aldı. Oyuncuyla görüşme gerçekleştirdi. Beşiktaş’ın projesinden etkilenen Murillo, gelmeyi kabul edince De Zerbi’den geri adım geldi.

De Zerbi, oyuncusuna "Seni sadece takıma mesaj vermek için kadro dışı bıraktım, bir hafta sonra geri döneceksin" dese de Murillo’nun cevabı net oldu:

- Ben takıma mesaj vereceğiniz oyuncu değilim. Bana takım bul dediniz, ben de Beşiktaş’a gidiyorum!

Göztepe maçındaki etkili oyunun ardından efsane teknik adam Sergen Yalçın da Murillo transferini şu sözlerle övdü:

- Amir öyle bir oyuncu. Tam fırsat transferi. Son dakikada ortaya çıktı. Aslında sağ bek planlamamız yoktu ancak Amir'i görünce hemen aldık.

Kasımpaşa bütün sezon bu maçı beklemiş

Kasımpaşa Fenerbahçe karşısında öyle bir futbol oynadı ki, izleyenler "bütün sezon bu maçı beklemiş" dedi.

Kasımpaşa zor günlerden geçti. Kulübün sahipleri hapse girdi. Sonra TMSF'ye devredildi. Son olarak da Kazancı Holding satın aldı.

Teknik direktörlük koltuğunda Fenerbahçe'nin eski teknik direktörü, futbolcusu, kaptanı ve sportif direktörü Emre Belözoğlu oturduğu İstanbul ekibi sezonun en iyi futbolunu oynadı.

Maç boyunca Fenerbahçe'nin ataklarına "Çanakkale geçilmez" savunmasıyla direnen Paşalılar, kıran kırana mücadelesini son saniyeye kadar sürdürdü.

Sosyal medyada ise Kasımpaşa'nın bu mücadelesine ilginç yorumlar yapıldı.

"Kasımpaşa bütün sezon bu maçı beklemiş", "Madem bu kadar iyi takımdınız neden şimdiye kadar oynamadınız" gibi sayısız yorum yapan taraftarlar, özellikle Fenerbahçe kökenli isimlerin hırsını manidar buldu.

Düğün ve cenaze

Fenerbahçe bu akşam en büyük sevinci ve en büyük üzüntüyü aynı anda yaşadı. Karşılaşmanın uzatma dakikalarında gol bulan sarı-lacivertli tribünler sevinçten çılgına döndü. Herkes maçın böyle biteceğini düşünüyorken Kasımpaşa'nın şok eden golü geldi.

Fenerbahçe için tarihi bir gece yaşandı. Kasımpaşa'yı ağırlayan sarı-lacivertli ekip maç boyunca rakibinde açık aradı, bulamadı. Düşme hattının içinde yer alan Emre Belözoğlu'nun öğrencileri, sanki bütün sezon bu maçı bekliyormuşçasına oynadı. Fenerbahçe'nin gol ayaklarına izin vermedi.

Ancak sarı-lacivertlilerin baskısı de bitmedi. Tedesco'nun öğrencileri karşılaşmanın 90+5'inci dakikasında Asensio ile aradığı golü buldu. Hem tribündeki onbinler, hem ekranları başındaki milyonlar sevince boğuldu.

Fenerbahçe tarafında düğün bayram, Kasımpaşa tarafı ölü evi gibiydi. Maç yeniden başladı. Herkes karşılaşmanın böyle biteceğinden emindi. Ama öyle olmadı.

Sahneye 90+11. dakikada Jim Allevinah çıktı. Kasımpaşa'nın bütün gece yapmaya çalıştığı "puan kapma" hayalini gerçekleştiren golü attı. Bu sefer de roller değişti.

Kasımpaşa sevince boğulurken sadece 6 dakika süren sevinç sonrası Fenerbahçe şok oldu. Üzüntüden kahroldu.

Maç başladığı gibi berabere bitti. Fenerbahçe için tarihi bir gece olarak kayıtlara geçti.

Trendyol Süper Lig'de puan durumu

Trendyol Süper Lig'de 23. hafta, oynanan tek maçla tamamlandı.

Haftanın kapanış mücadelesinde Fenerbahçe, konuk ettiği Kasımpaşa ile 90+11. dakikada yediği golle 1-1 berabere kalarak lider Galatasaray ile zirve yarışında puan eşitleme fırsatını kaybetti.

Deplasmanda TÜMOSAN Konyaspor'a 2-0 mağlup olan Galatasaray, 55 puanla liderliğini sürdürdü. Trabzonspor, konuk olduğu Gaziantep FK'yi 2-1 yenerek 3. sıradaki yerini korurken Beşiktaş ise sahasında Göztepe'yi 4-0'lık skorla geçerek İzmir temsilcisinin önünde 4. sıraya yerleşti.

- Sonuçlar

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasında oynanan maçlar ve alınan sonuçlar şöyle:

Çaykur Rizespor-Kocaelispor: 2-0

ikas Eyüpspor-Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği: 1-0

Corendon Alanyaspor-RAMS Başakşehir: 1-2

TÜMOSAN Konyaspor-Galatasaray: 2-0

Zecorner Kayserispor-Hesap.com Antalyaspor: 1-0

Gaziantep FK-Trabzonspor: 1-2

Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük-Samsunspor: 0-0

Beşiktaş-Göztepe: 4-0

Fenerbahçe-Kasımpaşa: 1-1

- Puan durumu

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasının ardından puan durumu şöyle oluştu:

- Gelecek haftanın programı

Trendyol Süper Lig'de 24. haftanın programı şöyle:

27 Şubat Cuma:

20.00 RAMS Başakşehir-TÜMOSAN Konyaspor (Başakşehir Fatih Terim)

20.00 Trabzonspor-Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük (Papara Park)

28 Şubat Cumartesi:

13.30 Kasımpaşa-Çaykur Rizespor (Recep Tayyip Erdoğan)

16.00 Kocaelispor-Beşiktaş (Turka Araç Muayene Kocaeli)

20.00 Galatasaray-Corendon Alanyaspor (RAMS Park)

20.00 Göztepe-ikas Eyüpspor (Isonem Park Gürsel Aksel)

1 Mart Pazar:

16.00 Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği-Zecorner Kayserispor (Eryaman)

20.00 Samsunspor-Gaziantep FK (Samsun Yeni 19 Mayıs)

20.00 Hesap.com Antalyaspor-Fenerbahçe (Corendon Airlines Park Antalya)

Fenerbahçe'ye darbe 'uzaktan' gelmedi

Fenerbahçe'den puan kopararak lider Galatasaray'la puanını eşitlemesine izin vermeyen Kasımpaşa'nın teknik heyeti ve kadrosundaki tanıdık isimler dikkat çekti.

Fenerbahçe'nin Kasımpaşa'yla berabere kalarak Galatasaray'ı yakalama fırsatını kaçırması taraftarları kahretti. Sarı-lacivertlilerin karşısında teknik adam olarak uzun yıllar kaptanlığı, teknik direktörlüğünü ve sportif direktörlüğünü yapan Emre Belözoğlu'nun yanı sıra İrfan Can Kahveci ve Cenk Tosun'un da olması dikkat çekti.

Düşme potasından kurtulmak isteyen ve çalkantılı günler geçiren Kasımpaşa, sezonun en iyi performansını sergiledi. Teknik direktör Emre Belözoğlu, maç boyunca bir saniye bile yerinde durmadı. Sürekli oyuncularına emirler yağdırdı.

Futbolculuk kariyerinin aksine teknik direktörlük serüveni pek parlak gitmeyen Emre'nin bu hırsı oyuncularına da sirayet etti. Fenerbahçeli oyuncularla kıran kırana mücadele eden Kasımpaşalı oyuncular, tribünlerdeki az sayıda seyircisini mutlu etti.

Asensio, kariyer rekorunu kırdı

Fenerbahçe'nin İspanyol yıldızı Marco Asensio, kariyer rekorunu kırdı.

Fenerbahçe sahasında Kasımpaşa'yla 1-1 berabere kaldı.

Sarı-lacivertlilerin İspanyol yıldızı Marco Asensio, kariyer rekorunu kırdı.

Sezon başından beri göz kamaştırıcı bir performansa imza atan Asensio, kariyerinde daha önce en çok gol kaydettiği sezonu 2021-2022 sezonunda Real Madrid formasıyla 10 gol atarak yaşamıştı.

Asensio, Kasımpaşa ağlarına 90+5. dakikada attığı golle bu sezonki 11. golüne ulaşarak rekorunu kırdı.

Super Liqa: “Fənərbağça” “Kasımpaşa” ilə bacarmadı

23 February 2026 at 23:30

Bu gün futbol üzrə Türkiyə çempionatında (Super Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 23-cü turunun oyunlarına yekun vurulub.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma baş tutub.

Turun qapanış matçında “Fənərbağça” doğma meydanda “Kasımpaşa” ilə üz-üzə gəlib. Tərəflər bu qarşılaşmadan hərəyə 1 qol və 1 xalla ayrılıblar.

Beləliklə, geridə qalmış 23 turdan sonra 55 xala malik “Qalatasaray” vahid liderdir. 53 xalı olan “Fənərbağça” ikinci, 48 xal toplamış “Trabzonspor” üçüncü pillədə qərarlaşıb. “Beşiktaş”ın 43, “Göztəpə”nin 41, “Başakşəhər”in 36, “Samsunspor”un 31 xalı var.

Türkiyə, Super Liqa
23-cü tur
20 fevral

Rizəspor – Kocaelispor 2:0
Qollar: Mihaila, 13. S.Akaydın, 57.

21 fevral

Eyüpspor – Gənclərbirliyi 1:0
Qol: M.Altunbaş, 90+1.

Alanyaspor – Başakşəhər 1:2
Qol: Haderqyonay, 67 – Selke, 14. Şomurodov, 44-pen.

Konyaspor – Qalatasaray 2:0
Qollar: A.Demirbağ, 75. Kramer, 81.

22 fevral

Kayserispor – Antalyaspor 1:0
Qol: T.Sarıarslan, 89.

Qaziantep – Trabzonspor 1:2
Qollar: Bayo, 22 – F.Auqusto, 24. Onuaçu, 27.

Beşiktaş – Göztəpə 4:0
Qollar: Ndidi, 9. Murilyo, 36. Olaytan, 59. Hyon-Qyu, 74.

Karagümrük – Samsunspor 0:0

23 fevral

Fənərbağça – Kasımpaşa 1:1
Qollar: Asensio, 90+5 – Allevina, 90+11.

Milan angered by four refereeing decisions in last two Serie A matches

24 February 2026 at 00:54

Milan have recently expressed their frustrations to the Italian refereeing association (AIA), but this has not had much of an effect, as the Rossoneri feel that four major decisions have gone against them during their last two Serie A matches. 

Milan slipped to a surprise 1-0 loss at home against Parma on Sunday evening, their first league defeat since the opening weekend of the 2025-26 season. They remain in second place, but now find themselves 10 points shy of league leaders Inter. 

Milan have recently been in contact with the AIA to express their frustrations about recent calls that have gone against them, but according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri decided against making a formal complaint to the AIA after the Parma match.

Still, they feel that another two decisions went against them during Sunday’s 1-0 loss against Parma.  

Which refereeing decisions have angered Milan?

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The first incident in question is the lack of punishment for Parma goalkeeper Edoardo Corvi following the collision that led Ruben Loftus-Cheek to be stretchered off and needing surgery on his jaw. 

Replays showed that Corvi did not get to the ball, which was headed clear by defender Emmanuele Valeri, but that he did make clear and forceful contact with Loftus-Cheek, who lost several teeth during the incident, but has since been discharged from hospital after suffering a fractured alveolar bone. 

Milan were also annoyed by the decision to award Parma’s Mariano Troilo’s goal, which put the Rossoneri 1-0 down in the 80th minute. 

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Mariano Troilo,Edoardo Corvi and Emanuele Valeri of Parma Calcio celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
FEBRUARY 22: Mariano Troilo,Edoardo Corvi and Emanuele Valeri of Parma Calcio celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The on-field decision had been to disallow the goal for an attacking foul on Davide Bartesaghi in the Milan area, but referee Marco Piccinini was later referred to the VAR screen and subsequently overturned his decision, handing Parma the lead with 10 minutes to go. 

As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Piccinini had not made a clear and obvious error in his decision to disallow Troilo’s goal, and therefore it should not have been an incident for VAR to review. 

Aside from the Parma match, Milan feel that they were also hard done by in their recent 1-1 draw with Como

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 18: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
FEBRUARY 18: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

They feel that Como head coach Cesc Fabregas should have been sent off for interfering with Alexis Saelemaekers while the game was being played, and that Ignace van der Brempt should have also seen red for a bad tackle on Strahinja Pavlovic, which left the Serbian injured while the Belgian went away unpunished.

Lazio confirm Rovella surgery on fractured collar bone

23 February 2026 at 23:56

Nicolo Rovella is facing several months on the sidelines as Lazio have confirmed that the midfielder has undergone surgery to fix a fractured collar bone he suffered during Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Cagliari

Rovella withdrew after 59 minutes of Lazio’s 0-0 stalemate against Cagliari at the Unipol Domus on Saturday afternoon with what was later confirmed to be a fracture to his clavicle, otherwise known as his collar bone. 

Lazio have confirmed in a statement on Monday evening that the four-time Italy international has had surgery to repair the damage and that the procedure was ‘perfectly successful’. 

CAGLIARI, ITALY - FEBRUARY 21: Nicolò Rovella of Lazio injured  during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Sant'Elia on February 21, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
CAGLIARI, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Nicolò Rovella injured during the Serie A match against Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Sant’Elia on February 21, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Rovella will begin a personalised recovery programme within the next few days, and reports in Italy suggest that it will take him around two months before he is in a position to return to competitive first-team action. 

This means that Rovella will likely miss out on Lazio’s upcoming fixtures against Torino, Atalanta in the Coppa Italia, Sassuolo, Milan, Bologna, Parma, Fiorentina and Napoli. 

What Lazio said about Rovella injury 

Nicolò Rovella of SS Lazio during the SS Lazio training session infront of the fans at the Formello sport centre on January 04, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Nicolò Rovella during the training session infront of the fans at the Formello sport centre on January 04, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

S.S. Lazio announces that Nicolò Rovella underwent surgical intervention this afternoon for the reduction and osteosynthesis of a fracture to his right collarbone, sustained during the match played in Cagliari,” read a statement on Monday evening. 

“The procedure was perfectly successful. The player will begin the specific rehabilitation program in the coming days, under the constant monitoring of the biancoceleste medical staff.”

Serie A | Fiorentina 1-0 Pisa: Kean lifts Viola out of relegation zone

23 February 2026 at 23:31

Moise Kean registered his third Serie A goal in as many games to lift Fiorentina out of the relegation zone with a 1-0 victory over local rivals Pisa on Monday evening. 

Fiorentina made several alterations to their starting line-up following Thursday evening’s 3-0 victory over Jagiellonia in the Conference League play-off round first leg, with Kean, Manor Solomon, Nicolo Fagioli and Marco Brescianini among the players to return to the Viola XI. Pisa made just two changes following their 2-1 defeat against Milan last weekend, with Samuel Iling-Junior and Marius Marin coming into the XI in place of Matteo Tramoni and Michel Aebischer. 

Click here to read more about how today’s teams lined up.

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 23: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Fiorentina were the better of the Tuscan teams across the first half in Florence, and needed less than 13 minutes to find the lead against their local rivals: Kean couldn’t have asked for a simpler chance. 

Jack Harrison’s cross in from the right flank was headed clear by Rosen Bozhinov, but only as far as Cher Ndour on the follow-up. Simone Canestrelli made a mess of his attempted clearance of Ndour’s shot and inadvertently sent it into the path of Kean, who was unmarked less than 10 yards out from goal. 

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 23: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina scores a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina scores a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Fagioli and Dodo tried to test goalkeeper Nicolas with a pair of shots from the edge of the area midway through the first half, but they were unable to find the target through a congested penalty area. 

Kean tried to find the back of the net with a header a few minutes before the interval, but got too far underneath Brescianini’s ball in from the left and saw his effort go over the crossbar for a goal-kick. 

Fagioli tested Nicolas from a free-kick from just over 25 yards out a few minutes after the break, but this was nothing that the Brazilian stopper wasn’t able to handle. 

Ndour saved his best attempt of the game for the 87th minute, rifling an effort towards the top corner of the net from the edge of the area, but Nicolas got a strong wrist behind it and sent it behind for a corner. 

Pisa were unable to register a shot on target across the 90 minutes. 

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 23: Idrissa Toure' of Pisa Sporting Club in action against Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: Idrissa Toure’ of Pisa Sporting Club in action against Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

This result lifts Fiorentina out of the relegation zone and into 16th place, but are not entirely clear of danger just yet given that they are still level on points with Cremonese (17th) and Lecce (18th). 

Pisa remain stuck in 19th, on the same tally of points as Hellas Verona (20th). They remain nine points off safety after 26 matches. 

Fiorentina 1-0 Pisa 

Kean 13’. 

23-02-2026 17:30
MatchDay 26

Player statistic

1st half
Moise Kean Goal 13'    
    37' Antonio Caracciolo
2nd half
Dodô 47'    
    62' Marius Marin
    79' Juan Cuadrado
Giovanni Fabbian 90+2'    
Jacopo Fazzini Yellow card 90+2'    

Match statistic

56
Possession %
44
15
Total shots
7
5
Shots on target
1
6
Shots off target
5
4
Blocked shots
1
4
Corners
3
0
Offsides
2
8
Fouls
19

Fiorentina
Pisa

Starting lineups

43
Goalkeeper
2
Defender
78'
65
Defender
6
Defender
5
Defender
27
Midfielder
4
Midfielder
44
Midfielder
88'
17
Attacker
19
Attacker
78'
20
Attacker
86'
12
Goalkeeper
4
35
Defender
46'
2
Defender
3
Defender
5
15
Midfielder
68'
6
Midfielder
81
46'
19
46'
32
Attacker
76'

Substitutes

10
3
Defender
21
Midfielder
1
Goalkeeper
53
Goalkeeper
29
Midfielder
60
Defender
62
Defender
63
Midfielder
22
Midfielder
78'
15
Defender
78'
91
Attacker
86'
80
Midfielder
88'
1
Goalkeeper
7
Attacker
33
Defender
10
Midfielder
39
Defender
14
26
8
Midfielder
99
Midfielder
34
Goalkeeper
20
Midfielder
46'
17
Attacker
46'
9
Attacker
46'
11
Midfielder
68'
36
76'

Amazon’s King of Meat is Getting Shut Down in April 2026 and Anyone Who Bought it is Getting a Refund

24 February 2026 at 00:43

Two cartoon characters wielding weapons run through a fiery arena in a game titled 'King of Meat,' surrounded by skeleton

Do you remember that game from Amazon and Glowmade at Gamescom ONL 2024 that put Geoff Keighley in its trailer and looked like a more medieval version of Fall Guys? No? Well, to remind you (unless you're one of the 10 people playing it on Steam right now who need no reminder), that game was King of Meat, a co-op party platformer that dropped four friends into a medieval, community-built obstacle course. That's what King of Meat was, with 'was' being the keyword here, because today, Amazon and Glowmade announced on the game's official website that its servers are going […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/king-of-meat-shut-down-april-2026-amazon-glowmade/

TSMC & Huawei Are Far From Exploring 3D Packaging For Smartphone SoCs, Instead Focusing On Improving Manufacturing Processes Due To Thermal Constraints

24 February 2026 at 00:04

TSMC and Huawei aren't focused on moving on 3D packaging technology anytime

The biggest hindrance to smartphone chipsets unlocking their potential is heat dissipation, and while TSMC’s 2nm process is expected to introduce some efficiency improvements, the ever-growing complexity and size of these SoCs mean that newer packaging needs to be adopted to break through the performance ceiling. One tipster notes that the industry has been discussing about companies like TSMC and Huawei exploring 3D packaging for the smartphone category, but the reality is that this technology offers far too many drawbacks for it to be adopted for this specific sector. Instead, these firms appear to focus solely on improving manufacturing processes. […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/tsmc-and-huawei-focused-on-improving-node-than-3d-packaging-due-to-heat-generation/

Bungie Confirms That Cheaters in Marathon Will be “Permabanned” When Caught, “No Second Chances”

23 February 2026 at 23:50

A close-up of a character with glowing red eyes wearing a hood in the game Marathon.

Bungie's upcoming first-person PvEvP extraction shooter, Marathon, will be out on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S in a little more than a week from the time of this writing, and as you might expect, there has been a lot of communication and marketing from the team as we get closer to the game's release. The most recent of which arrived today, in the form of a new blog post on the official Bungie website, all to do with the game's networking and security. The blog post highlights the game's dedicated server networking and how elements like Fog of War […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/marathon-cheaters-will-be-permabanned-no-second-chances-says-bungie/

How personality and culture relate to our perceptions of artificial intelligence

23 February 2026 at 23:00

A recent study reveals that a person’s cultural background, personality traits, and technical skills shape how they view the impact of artificial intelligence on their overall well-being. The findings suggest that feeling competent with new technology and possessing a sense of personal control lead to more positive experiences with artificial intelligence. The research was published in the Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science.

As artificial intelligence becomes a regular part of daily life, from personalized internet recommendations to healthcare planning, questions have emerged about how these tools affect mental health and happiness. Previous research tends to focus on the positive contributions of these technologies in specific fields like education or medicine. Less is known about how an individual’s unique psychological traits influence their daily interactions with these systems.

Most existing studies also focus heavily on Western populations. This leaves a gap in understanding how people from different cultural backgrounds experience artificial intelligence.

“Public reactions to artificial intelligence are highly polarized. While some people see AI as exciting and beneficial, others express concern, discomfort, or even fear about its societal and personal consequences,” explained study authors Magnus Liebherr of the University of Duisburg-Essen and Raian Ali of Hamad Bin Khalifa University.

“Much of the public debate focuses on the capabilities of the technology itself, but psychological research suggests that people’s responses to new technologies are strongly shaped by individual differences. We therefore wanted to understand which personal factors are associated with how people perceive AI’s impact on their well-being.”

In particular, the researchers aimed to see how cultural differences, personality types, and a psychological concept called “locus of control” affect whether people view these tools as helpful or harmful. Locus of control refers to how much a person believes they have the power to influence events in their own life. Sociologists generally classify Arab cultures as collectivist, meaning they emphasize group harmony, social bonds, and community cohesion.

The United Kingdom represents a more individualistic culture, where personal autonomy and individual rights tend to take precedence. The researchers suspected these foundational cultural differences might shape how societies embrace new and potentially disruptive software.

“This geographical diversity was particularly important given the different cultural contexts in which AI is adopted and used,” Liebherr and Ali told PsyPost. “As we discussed in our work “Who lets AI take over? Cross-national variation in willingness to delegate socially important roles to artificial intelligence” (Yankouskaya et al., 2026), cultural factors play a significant role in how people approach and integrate AI technologies into their lives.”

The researchers conducted an online survey involving 562 participants between the ages of 18 and 60. The sample was split evenly, featuring 281 individuals from the United Kingdom and 281 individuals from Arab countries. To qualify for the Arab sample, participants had to reside in a Gulf nation, ensuring a shared cultural and political background.

The participants completed several psychological questionnaires. First, they rated their own competency in using and managing artificial intelligence on a scale from one to six. Next, they answered questions designed to measure five major personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Neuroticism is a trait associated with a tendency to experience anxiety and negative emotions.

Participants also completed an assessment to determine their locus of control, indicating whether they felt their life was guided by their own actions or by outside forces. Finally, they answered a modified well-being questionnaire. This specific survey asked them to rate how often they felt positive emotions, engagement, meaning, and accomplishment when thinking about artificial intelligence and its presence in society.

The data revealed significant cultural differences in how people view these technologies. Arab participants reported that artificial intelligence contributed much more positively to their well-being than British participants did. The British group actually scored higher on measures linking artificial intelligence to negative emotions and feelings of loneliness.

The scientists found that technical skills played a massive role in shaping user attitudes. Across both cultural groups, individuals who reported higher competency with artificial intelligence perceived the technology as having a much more positive impact on their well-being. This provides evidence that understanding how these systems work and knowing how to use them helps reduce uncertainty and increases the perceived benefits of the technology.

“We expected personality traits to be the dominant predictors, but AI competency emerged as equally strong in predicting positive perceptions of AI,” Liebherr and Ali said. “This was encouraging because personality traits tend to be relatively stable, whereas competency can potentially be improved.”

Personality traits also strongly predicted user experiences, though the specific traits mattered differently depending on the culture. Individuals who scored high in neuroticism tended to view artificial intelligence as less beneficial and more concerning in both the British and Arab groups. This aligns with broader psychological concepts suggesting that people who are naturally prone to anxiety are more sensitive to the potential risks of new technologies.

“Another notable finding was the consistent role of anxiety-related traits: individuals who are generally more prone to worry tended to perceive AI more negatively across both cultural groups,” the researchers explained.

Other personality traits varied by region. Extraversion and conscientiousness predicted positive perceptions of artificial intelligence in the Arab sample. Agreeableness predicted positive perceptions in the British sample.

“This suggests that the influence of personality on attitudes toward AI may vary across cultural contexts, possibly due to other culture-related variables moderating this relationship,” Liebherr and Ali told PsyPost. “These cultural variations highlight the complexity of how personal and cultural factors interact in shaping AI perceptions.”

A consistent finding across both cultures was the importance of an internal locus of control. Participants who believed they were largely in control of their own life paths viewed artificial intelligence as a positive contributor to their well-being. The scientists suggest that feeling a strong sense of personal agency helps people feel more comfortable integrating new tools into their routines.

The statistical models used by the scientists explained a substantial amount of the differences in user attitudes. The tested variables accounted for 31 percent of the varied perceptions in the British sample and 47 percent in the Arab sample. The analysis also revealed that demographic factors like age and gender did not influence how individuals perceived the technology’s contribution to their well-being.

“A central message of the study is that people’s experiences with AI are shaped not only by how AI products are designed but also by their own characteristics and skills,” Liebherr and Ali said.

As with all research, there are a few limitations in mind when interpreting these findings. The study is correlational, which means it cannot prove that specific traits directly cause positive or negative views of artificial intelligence. High technical competency might lead to more positive perceptions, but people with positive attitudes might also simply be more motivated to learn about the technology.

The researchers also point out that the survey measured people’s subjective perceptions of their well-being, rather than objective changes in their mental health. The survey did not specify which types of artificial intelligence the participants should think about when answering the questions. A person might have a very different reaction to a helpful medical tool than they would to an automated hiring system or a social media algorithm.

“Future research should examine how these psychological factors interact with specific AI applications and how perceptions change over time as people gain experience,” Liebherr and Ali said. “It is also important to investigate both potential benefits and risks of AI use. For example, conversational AI systems may provide support and information, but there is also a need to study whether heavy reliance on such systems could have unintended negative consequences for well-being.”

“As we explored in our work “Can ChatGPT be addictive? A call to examine the shift from support to dependence in AI conversational large language models” (Yankouskaya et al., 2025), understanding the full spectrum of AI’s impact, from enhancement to potential problematic use, is crucial for developing responsible AI systems and usage guidelines. We are also interested in understanding how interventions aimed at improving AI competency and sense of control might positively influence well-being outcomes.”

“A practical implication of our findings is that improving people’s competency and skills in AI (not just their understanding) may help them feel more comfortable with these technologies,” the researchers added. “For developers and policymakers, this means providing transparent systems, clear explanations, and opportunities for users to build skills and maintain a sense of control. Explainable AI (XAI) is particularly important in this regard.”

“Our study found that internal locus of control (the belief that one can influence their own outcomes) was a significant predictor of positive AI perceptions. By helping users understand how AI makes decisions, XAI can enhance this sense of control, which in turn may lead to more positive perceptions of AI’s contribution to well being. Supporting users in developing competency and providing them with tools to understand and control AI systems may be just as important as improving the technology itself.”

The study, “Artificial Intelligence vs. Users’ Well-Being and the Role of Personal Factors: A Study on Arab and British Samples,” was authored by Magnus Liebherr, Areej Babiker, Sameha Alshakhsi, Dena Al-Thani, Ala Yankouskaya, Christian Montag, and Raian Ali.

World Baseball Classic 2026: Schedule, bracket, rosters, format, teams and how to watch the international baseball tournament

After a three-year wait, the World Baseball Classic is back. Team Japan will look to defend its title after taking down Team USA in the 2023 final. That contest ended in the most dramatic way possible, as Shohei Ohtani faced his then-teammate Mike Trout with the game on the line in the ninth inning. 

Delivering an encore to that at-bat will be a tall task for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but it helps that some of the biggest names in baseball have committed to playing in the tournament this time around. 

With the 2026 World Baseball Classic fast approaching, here's everything you need to know about the event, including the schedule, bracket, rosters and where you can watch every game.

2026 World Baseball Classic schedule

The 2026 World Baseball Classic begins March 5 and runs through March 17. Games will be played in four stadiums spread across Puerto Rico, Japan and the United States. 

The pool stage will run from March 5 to March 11. The quarterfinals will occur March 13 and March 14. The semifinals will take place March 15 and March 16, setting up the WBC final on March 17 in Miami.

2026 World Baseball Classic teams

A total of 20 teams will take part in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Those teams are broken up into five pools to begin the event. Here's how each pool shakes out:

Pool A

Puerto Rico
Cuba
Canada
Panama
Colombia

Pool B

United States
Mexico
Italy
Great Britain
Brazil

Pool C

Japan
Australia
Korea
Czechia
Chinese Taipei

Pool D

Venezuela
Dominican Republic
Netherlands
Israel
Nicaragua

2026 World Baseball Classic format

The 2026 WBC will begin with the pool stage. In this stage, teams will play every other team in their pools. Puerto Rico, for example, will play the four other teams in Pool A during this portion of the tournament. After that, the two teams with the best records in each pool will advance to the quarterfinals. In the event of a tie, head-to-head record is the first tiebreaker. From there, things get slightly more complicated, with the "lowest quotient of runs allowed divided by the number of defensive outs recorded in games between the teams that are tied" coming into play, per ESPN.

In the quarterfinals, the winner of Pool A will play against the runner-up from Pool B, and the winner of Pool B will play the runner-up from Pool A. The same format will occur on the other side of the bracket featuring the winners and runners-up from Pools C and D. The tournament is a single-elimination bracket, meaning teams that lose are eliminated. 

The four teams left standing after the quarterfinals advance to the semifinals. Teams are reseeded for the semifinal round, so a team from Pool A could face a team from Pool D for the first time in the semifinal. Once again, games are single-elimination.

The two teams that advance to the final will play one winner-take-all game to determine the champion.

Here are your finalized pools and schedule for the 2026 #WorldBaseballClassic.

The Championship Game will be played March 17, 2026 at loanDepot Park in Miami.

Full ticketing information for the 2026 tournament is available at https://t.co/h4Fi0dLx07. pic.twitter.com/t8q8Nopf4k

— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) April 9, 2025

Previous World Baseball Classic winners

Since the first World Baseball Classic in 2006, three countries have won the championship. Here are the winners — and runners-up — from the five previous editions of the WBC.

2006: Japan defeated Cuba 10-6
2009: Japan defeated South Korea 5-3
2013: Dominican Republic defeated Puerto Rico 3-0
2017: United States defeated Puerto Rico 8-0
2023: Japan defeated United States 3-2

Japan has won three of the five World Baseball Classics, with the Dominican Republic and the United States taking the other two editions of the tournament.

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 21:  Shohei Ohtani #16 of Team Japan celebrates with his teammates after the final out in the top of the 9th inning to defeat Team USA 3-2 during World Baseball Classic Championship at loanDepot park on March 21, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Christopher Pasatieri/Getty Images)
Shohei Ohtani celebrates with his teammates after the final out of the 2023 World Baseball Classic. (Photo by Christopher Pasatieri/Getty Images)
Christopher Pasatieri via Getty Images

2026 World Baseball Classic rosters

Many MLB superstars have committed to the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Team USA will feature MLB stars including Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, Bryce Harper and Bobby Witt Jr. A full rundown of Team USA's roster can be viewed here. 

Japan should also have plenty of MLB talent once again, led by Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani, however, will not pitch in the event. Team Japan will also feature Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and new MLB additions Kazuma Okamoto and Munetaka Murakami.

The Dominican Republic is also loaded with talent. Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are among the MLB stars playing for the country in 2026. They'll be joined by Brayan Bello, Sandy Alcantara, Ketel Marte and Julio Rodriguez, among others.

Mexico and Venezuela also have some MLB stars on their rosters. Mexico will feature Alejandro Kirk, Jarren Duran and Randy Arozarena. Venezuela will have Ronald Acuña Jr., Jackson Chourio and Salvador Perez.

MLB players will appear across the rest of the WBC rosters, too. Nolan Arenado will play for Puerto Rico, which will be without Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa due to insurance issues. Vinnie Pasquantino will play for Team Italy. Jose Quintana will play for Colombia. And Liam Hendriks will take the mound for Australia.

For a comprehensive list of MLB players in the 2026 WBC, go here.

How to watch the 2026 World Baseball Classic

World Baseball Classic games will air on FOX Media in 2026. Games will appear on FOX, FS1, FS2, the FOX Sports App, FOX One and Tubi. FOX Deportes will carry 28 games in Spanish during the event. 

The 2026 World Baseball Classic championship game will be broadcast on FOX.

What prospects had the most bench press reps at the NFL combine?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea warms up prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium.

The NFL scouting combine is underway in Indianapolis. One of the challenges prospects face is the bench press. That would be to do as many reps of 225 pounds as possible. It isn't easy no matter what position for a player or their size. However, there have been some who have wowed everyone with their feats of strength. Will anyone set a mark for reps in the 2026 NFL combine? What are the most in the history of the event? Who are the prospects who did more than 40?

Igor Olshansky: 2004

San Diego Chargers defensive end Igor Olshansky.

Reps: 41

Terna Nande: 2006

Quarterback Justin Zwick #12 of the Ohio State Buckeyes carries the ball for a first down as he is chased by Miami (OH) Redhawks defenders Steve Burke #36 and Terna Nande #32.

Reps: 41

David Molk: 2012

Michigan Wolverines offensive linesman David Molk (50) and quarterback Denard Robinson (16).

Reps: 41

Jordan Roos: 2017

Tennessee Titans guard Jordan Roos (70) leaves the field after losing to the Houston Texans.
Titans Texans 111

Reps: 41

Vita Vea: 2018

Washington Huskies defensive lineman Vita Vea (50) reacts following his blocked punt.

Reps: 41

Isaac Sopoaga: 2004

Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Isaac Sopoaga against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Reps: 42

Tank Tyler: 2007

Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Glenn Dorsey (72) and defensive tackle Tank Tyler (93) react.

Reps: 42

Russell Bodine: 2014

Bills offensive lineman Russell Bodine during training camp.

Reps: 42

Harrison Phillips

New York Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips (97) hangs out with his child before an NFL Week 10 game between the New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns.

Reps: 42

Larry Allen: 1994

Dallas Cowboys tackle Larry Allen in action against the Arizona Cardinals at Sun Devil Stadium.

Reps: 43

Scott Young: 2005

Scott Young of the Philadelphia Eagles poses for his 2007 NFL headshot at photo day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Reps: 43

Brodrick Bunkley: 2006

Denver Broncos defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley comes out to the field before the start of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Reps: 44

Jeff Owens: 2010

In this 2010 photo provided by the NFL, Jeff Owens of the Philadelphia Eagles poses.

Reps: 44

Dontari Poe: 2012

Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle Dontari Poe is introduced before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Arrowhead Stadium.

Reps: 44

Netane Muti: 2020

Denver Broncos NFL guard Netane Muti

Reps: 44

Mike Kudla: 2006

Mike Kudla of the Pittsburgh Steelers poses for his 2006 NFL headshot.

Reps: 45

Mitch Petrus: 2010

Mitch Petrus (62) participating in drills during the third day at Giants training camp at the University of Albany campus on Aug. 3, 2010.

Reps: 45

Leif Larsen: 2000

Dominic Rhodes #33 of the Indianapolis Colts struggles against Leif Larsen #97 of the Buffalo Bills.

Reps: 45

Stephen Paea: 2011

Running back LaMichael James #21 of the Oregon Ducks rushes with the ball past tackle Stephen Paea #54 of the Oregon State Beavers.

Reps: 49

Justin Ernest: 1999

The Bench Press station at the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center.

Reps: 51

This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Most bench press reps at NFL scouting combine

The USA men’s hockey team utterly failed to meet the cultural moment

Like many United States hockey fans, I grew up loving Miracle. I wasn't born yet when the United States stunned the Soviet Union en route to the gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics, but I knew the story as if it were my own lived memory.

I was, however, alive for Sidney Crosby's golden goal for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics that took down the United States. As a teenage Philadelphia Flyers fan who saw her greatest NHL rival score for her greatest international rival, the goal broke my heart. I had suffered many disappointing sports results before and have since, but none have stuck with me the way Crosby's goal has over the years.

So, to see the United States men's hockey team finally win Olympic gold in my lifetime was a dream come true. What has happened since has been nothing short of a disappointment.

As the celebrations from the 2-1 overtime win over Canada spilled off the ice and behind closed doors, FBI director Kash Patel joined Team USA in the locker room in a leaked video that has since gone viral. In the video, Patel is seen celebrating and drinking beer with the team, whose victory came on the same day an armed man breached the perimeter at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago property. The FBI has since taken the lead investigating the incident.

Then, in another video posted amidst the postgame celebrations, Patel was seen holding up a cell phone to the hockey team for a call with President Trump. Included in the call is a moment where Trump and the team seemingly share a laugh about having to invite the United States women's team — who also won gold against Canada — to the White House as well.

all of them laughing about inviting the women’s team. every single one of them pic.twitter.com/fspZvWwlZv

— greta theft autumn ✿ (@2007warpedtour) February 23, 2026

President Trump: We'll do it at the White House... we'll just have some fun, we have medals for you guys. And we have to, I must tell you, we're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that?

United States men's hockey team: [Laughter and cheers]

Trump: I do believe I probably would be impeached, okay?

Team: [More laughter]

I'm sure I'm not the only one that feels as if a bucket of cold water has been dumped on your head after listening to that exchange.

Let's take a step back for a second. The 2026 Winter Olympics was a record-breaking one for the United States. In Milan and Cortina, the United States won 12 gold medals, the most ever for the country in a winter Olympics. Of those 12 golds, eight were won by women. Alysa Liu won the United States' first women's individual gold in figure skating since Sarah Hughes in 2002. Bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor became the oldest Winter Olympian to win an individual gold at age 41. Mikaela Shiffrin took home gold in the women's slalom, completing her redemption tour after failing to medal in Beijing in 2022.

As for hockey, Hilary Knight is now the all-time leading point scorer and goal scorer for the United States after her tying tally in the gold medal game. Laila Edwards also became the first Black woman to win gold in hockey for the United States after the team's dramatic 2-1 overtime victory.

So much of the success Team USA had at these Olympics was at the hands of women. But, for most of the Games, the White House has either been silent in the face of these victories or has actively disparaged athletes that have spoken out against the United States politically. It wasn't until the men's hockey team won gold over its long-standing rival that the Trump administration decided to hand out praise and victory calls.

Given the NHL reportedly has the second-highest percentage of right-leaning athletes out of the five major sports leagues in the United States, it shouldn't come as a surprise.

If you’re a long-time fan, you knew that hockey culture would rear its ugly head again. In 2023, multiple NHL players declined to wear Pride Night jerseys in a move that ultimately saw the league ban specialty warmup jerseys. The Chicago Blackhawks sexual assault scandal rocked the NHL in 2021, but multiple members of the organization in Stan Bowman, Joel Quenneville and Kevin Cheveldayoff have either retained their jobs or have gotten new ones in the years since the news broke.

And, just last October, the Vegas Golden Knights signed free agent goaltender Carter Hart. Hart was one of the five players found not guilty on sexual assault charges in the Hockey Canada sexual assault case that had two juries dismissed before a verdict was reached.

This is just the latest blow to the NHL's often-mocked motto of "hockey is for everyone". For fans, it's yet another example of the "best sport, worst league" adage ringing true once more.

But hockey has had an unprecedented pop culture surge recently in the form of Heated Rivalry, which has brought in droves of women and members of the LGBTQ+ community to hockey's doorstep. Not only that, USA hockey star Quinn Hughes became an internet sensation these Olympics after acknowledging his hilarious vacant, seeing-ghosts stare that has captured many people's hearts.

With hockey at the peak of its popularity in the pop culture zeitgeist, the United States men's team failed to meet the moment and then some.

It's especially disappointing considering the lip service the men's team paid to the women throughout the Olympics. Multiple members of the men's team attended games in support of their Team USA peers, and Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk both had high praise for the United States women in their pursuit of gold.

Auston Matthews: "Watching them, being around them, they're a very determined group. There's a lot of high-end players there. Some girls that have been around for a little bit & some that are coming up that are extremely impressive. We're rooting for them big on Thursday." https://t.co/B9z3Oq7V6B

— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) February 18, 2026

And after the gold medal game, Jack Hughes told NHL reporter Jackie Redmond that Megan Keller was the first person on his mind after scoring the golden goal for the United States. Just a few days prior, Keller was the hero for the United States women with her overtime goal against Canada.

The Hughes brothers also have a deep connection to the United States women's hockey program. Their mother, Ellen Weinberg-Hughes, was part of the US women's national team that won silver at the 1992 world championships. Since then, Weinberg-Hughes has been a player development consultant for the United States women's national team and no doubt contributed to the gold medal the team won at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

All of that feels so hollow now in the face of the team's embarrassing postgame moments with Patel and Trump. To laugh at a joke disparaging your United States teammates and peers who won the same accomplishments as you just a few days prior is incredibly disappointing behavior.

It leaves such a sour taste to the end of what has been an exceptional Olympics, not just for the United States but the entire world. The Olympics bring people together from different backgrounds, cultures and locations to celebrate great achievements in sport. Every handful of years, we are treated to some of the most thrilling victories and crushing defeats imaginable, all wrapped up in poignant human emotion.

Since winning gold at these Olympics, Alysa Liu has gone viral for her joyous, carefree attitude that shone through in her free skate performance. Liu's overt joy in her body language and her words has been such a breath of fresh air in a sport that is often cruel if you bring less than your absolute best. It's a message that has reverberated outside of sports too, as people have taken Liu's approach to mental health and have applied it to their own lives.

On the Olympic stage, it's not just about sports. The United States men's hockey team showed that themselves as they brought Johnny Gaudreau's jersey onto the ice to celebrate as a tribute to his passing back in 2024. The team even brought his children out to take part in the celebratory on-ice team photo.

Zach Werenski and Dylan Larkin brought Johnny Gaudreau's children on the ice for their gold medal photo ❤️ 🥇 pic.twitter.com/qBrr9esL77

— ESPN (@espn) February 22, 2026

That is what the lasting message of this hockey team should have been. Not laughing at jokes about their peers, not going mask off after the doors close, but a celebration of life, of joy and of a teammate that tragically passed away way too soon.

In NBC's final sign off after the game as the team was still celebrating on the ice, Mike Tirico had touching words to say on the lasting legacy of this game for those who were watching.

"So, for all the young people. Not just the hockey, but all the Olympics you've watched: Those dreams are formed now," Tirico said. "Go chase them and go get them; because our country loves sports and it brings us together unlike anything else.

"And if you didn't know that," he added, "if you haven't been watching the last two weeks, you saw it in Team USA hockey."

This article originally appeared on For The Win: The USA men’s hockey team utterly failed to meet the cultural moment

Packers warn season-ticket holders who "repeatedly resell"

If you're a Packers owner, they can't take away your stock certificate. They can, however, take away your season tickets.

The Packers have issued another warning to folks who own season tickets and sell them on the secondary market.

"Our Season Ticket Holders are central to Lambeau Field's significant homefield advantage and gameday experience," Packers vice president of sales and business development Craig Benzel said in an item posted on the team's website. "We continue to emphasize the purpose of having season tickets, which is to attend games and contribute to that atmosphere. Simply put: Packers Season Ticket Holders who purchase their tickets with the sole intent of reselling them should not be Packers Season Ticket Holders."

While the Packers have not applied a magic number that will lead to revocation of season tickets, the article states that "Season Ticket Holders who repeatedly resell their season tickets, whether on the secondary market or through ticket brokers (directly or indirectly), may have their renewal ability impacted without further warning."

Citing a waiting list of more than 155,000, the Packers want as many seats as possible to be filled with Packers fans.

Each team controls its tickets. And while some franchises rely on fans of the visiting team to fill a stadium that would otherwise have empty seats, the Packers have more than enough fans to overload Lambeau Field with people wearing cheeseheads. For anyone who re-sells to someone who'd be more inclined to wear a cheese grater, the outcome eventually will be not great.

U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declines Trump invite to State of the Union

Gold medalist Hilary Knight #21 of Team United States celebrates after the medal ceremony for Women
Gold medalist Hilary Knight #21 of Team United States celebrates after the medal ceremony for Women's Ice Hockey after the Women's Gold Medal match between the United States and Canada on day 13 of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 19, 2026 in Milan, Italy. Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images

The U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declined an invite to President Donald Trump‘s State of the Union address on Monday, shortly after a clip of Trump making light of the women’s team made the rounds.

Both American squads won gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, taking down the Canadian team in their respective finals. On Sunday, Trump invited the men’s team to his annual speech and joked about the inclusion of the women’s team.

“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” Trump said, adding that he “probably would be impeached” if he didn’t.

Everything about this is so genuinely gross but the “I guess I have to invite the women’s team too or else I’ll get impeached” is fucking crazy. Britta Curl is that your boy? Abbey Murphy you cool with this? pic.twitter.com/dTgpBF7hda

— Maya🇵🇸🇱🇧 (@ilyasamsHOEnov) February 23, 2026

Trump celebrated the men’s hockey win on social media, lauding the team on Truth Social after their overtime victory.

“Congratulations to our great U.S.A. Ice Hockey team. THEY WON THE GOLD. WOW!” he wrote.

When the women’s team won just days earlier, Trump remained silent.

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On Monday, the women’s team shared in a statement that they would not be attending the State of the Union. The statement made no mention of Trump’s comments, citing “academic and professional commitments” for the athletes’ decision.

“We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement,” a USA Hockey spokesperson said. “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate.”

The post U.S. Women’s Hockey Team declines Trump invite to State of the Union appeared first on Salon.com.

Stephen Jones: We haven't gotten to point where we can agree on Brandon Aubrey extension

The Cowboys agreed to a new contract with running back Javonte Williams over the weekend and they are poised to use the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, but those aren't the only pieces of business they are contending with ahead of the new league year.

Kicker Brandon Aubrey is set to be a restricted free agent if the team cannot sign him to an extension in the coming weeks. Aubrey has made over 88 percent of his field goals in three seasons with Dallas and he's 35-of-44 from beyond 50 yards, which could make him a target for other teams even though restricted free agents have usually wound up staying put in recent years.

On Monday, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said that the team has been in discussions about a new deal with the kicker for months without finding the common ground needed to get something done.

"We just finished up Javonte," Jones said, via Jon Machota of TheAthletic.com. "We’ve been in talks with Aubrey since before the season started. That’s been a journey. We haven’t been able to get to a point where we can all agree so it hasn’t gotten done, but we’d love to get him done."

If the Cowboys can't extend Aubrey, they will likely tender him a contract as a restricted free agent. They could use the first- or second-round tender in order to guarantee themselves compensation if they choose not to match an outside offer for Aubrey's services while the lowest tender would not give them anything back should Aubrey wind up leaving for another team.

Steelers free agency scouting report: S Bryan Cook

The Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of roster needs to address in the upcoming free agency period, particularly at safety, where there are a few key names to watch closely.

Currently, the Steelers have Jalen Ramsey and potentially DeShon Elliott atop the safety depth chart, but Bryan Cook of the Kansas City Chiefs would make an ideal acquisition for Pittsburgh’s defense.

Stats

2022 (16 games): 0 interceptions, 2 passes defended, 33 combined tackles2023 (12 games): 1 interception, 2 passes defended, 42 combined tackles2024 (17 games): 2 interceptions, 5 passes defended, 78 combined tackles2025 (17 games): 0 interceptions, 6 passes defended, 85 combined tackles

Fit with Steelers defense

With Chuck Clark and Kyle Dugger scheduled to hit free agency in March, as well as questions surrounding Elliott's availability after missing most of the 2025 season with a knee injury, Cook would pair nicely with Ramsey as Pittsburgh's starting safety duo.

One of the league's top safeties last season against both the run and the pass, Cook possesses a versatile skill set that allows him to line up in the box, at nickel, or as the deep safety, which could help Pittsburgh's secondary rebound in a big way in 2026.

Contract prediction

We at Steelers Wire predict Cook, projected by Spoctrac to command an average annual value of $14.2 million, could sign a four-year, $60 million contract in free agency.

For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2026 free agency scouting report: Chiefs S Bryan Cook

Lions 2026 coaching staff has Mike Kafka as pass game coordinator

New Detroit Lions assistant Mike Kafka will have the title of pass game coordinator, and Lions strength coach Mike Clark is retiring after five years with the team.

Kafka was hired as a high-level assistant last month after first interviewing for the offensive coordinator position. The Free Press previously reported he was brought in to work with the passing game.

David Shaw, last year's pass game coordinator, is now a pass game specialist, the Lions announced Monday, Feb. 23, when they unveiled their entire coaching staff for the 2026 season.

New York Giants interim coach Mike Kafka looks on in the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, Nov. 23, 2025.

THE OTHER NEW GUY: New Lions OC Drew Petzing can transform offense: 'It's in his veins'

The Lions have just three new assistants on their coaching staff: Kafka, offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and offensive assistant Dan Skipper, who retired after a nine-year playing career to go into coaching.

They previously announced Petzing's hire to replace John Morton as coordinator.

Among other changes, Scottie Montgomery is now the team's associate head coach/receivers coach after serving as assistant head coach and receivers coach last year, safeties coach Jim O'Neil is assistant head coach and safeties coach, Bruce Gradkowski has been elevated from offensive assistant to assistant receivers coach, defensive quality control coach Caleb Collins is a defensive assistant and assistant offensive line coach Steve Oliver is the new tight ends coach.

Clark, Dan Campbell's former strength coach at Texas A&M, joined the Lions as director of sports performance in 2021 after a long career in high school, college and the NFL. He worked with Campbell at A&M from 1995-98.

Jill Costanza, the Lions' director of sports science, added assistant strength and conditioning coach to her title.

Among the departures from last year's staff: Morton was fired after the season, tight ends coach Tyler Roehl left to become offensive coordinator at Iowa State and assistant receivers coach Seth Ryan was hired as New York Jets pass game coordinator.

Dave Birkett covers the Lions for the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at dbirkett@freepress.com. Follow him on BlueskyX and Instagram at @davebirkett.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions announce titles for new coaches Mike Kafka, Dan Skipper

Stephen Curry could become Klay Thompson's teammate again, but not on the Warriors

Stephen Curry Klay Thompson IMAGN 02232026

Stephen Curry could become Klay Thompson's teammate again, but not on the Warriors originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It has been a fascinating season on and off the court for Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors' longtime superstar guard has been nursing a knee injury of late, but at 37 years old, he is averaging 27.2 points per game on a Warriors team that largely appears locked in to a Play-In Tournament spot.

Off the court, Curry in November split with longtime sneaker partner Under Armour, where he had been under contract since 2013. The breakup has gotten a bit acrimonious; Sole Retriever reported last week that Under Armour had "migrated" the vast majority of Curry Brand's Instagram followers to their basketball-specific account

MORE: Klay Thompson just signed a lifetime contract but not with the Warriors or Mavericks

Curry remains a sneaker free agent, but Sole Retriever reported Monday that he has narrowed his search down to three brands. Anta, the Chinese brand that has a long affiliation with Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson, is one of the finalists.

Uniting Curry and Thompson under the same roof again, four years after they won their fourth NBA championship together with the Warriors, would be tremendously appealing for Anta, which signed Thompson to a "lifetime" contract extension earlier this month.

The chance of this reunion happening gained traction over the NBA All-Star break, when Curry was seen working out in a pair of Anta shoes -- with the Curry brand logo emblazoned on them.

Steph was spotted during ASW wearing a pair of the ANTA Enclosion Type 2 with his Curry Brand logo on the heel 👀🤔 @StephenCurry30pic.twitter.com/jrY4UGhxod

— Sole Retriever (@SoleRetriever) February 22, 2026

More NBA news:

St. John’s men’s basketball moves up to No. 15 in AP Top 25 poll

Feb 21, 2026; New York, New York, USA; St. John's Red Storm forward Dillon Mitchell (1) goes up for a dunk attempt in the second half against the Creighton Bluejays at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

After two consecutive weeks of standing put at No. 17, St. John’s finally enjoyed upward movement in the AP Top 25 men’s basketball poll.

The Red Storm jumped two spots to No. 15 in the latest poll released on Monday afternoon, overtaking Texas Tech and North Carolina after they suffered road losses to unranked teams during the week. They were also ranked 15th in the USA Today Coaches Poll.

A NEW NO. 1 IN THE AP TOP 25🔥 @DukeMBB takes over the top spot!

What do you think of the latest rankings? pic.twitter.com/1kWvGzW9WP

— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) February 23, 2026

St. John’s is coming off another undefeated week that included a six-point win over Marquette and a 29-point drubbing of Creighton at home. As winners of their last 13 games, the Red Storm currently own the second-longest winning streak in Division I men’s college basketball, and the longest among power-conference teams. The Red Storm’s 15-1 record in Big East play is the program’s best mark through 16 conference games since the 1984-85 team, which went to the Final Four.

Conference rival UConn dropped one spot to No. 6 following their shocking 91-84 upset loss to Creighton last Wednesday. St. John’s and UConn were the only two Big East teams ranked for a fifth consecutive week. Villanova received 15 points in the poll, which was the third-highest total among unranked teams receiving votes.

The 15th-ranked Red Storm will take on the UConn Huskies (25-3, 15-2 Big East) on Wednesday, February 25 at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, Connecticut. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., and the game can be streamed on Peacock.

Fresh Faces on the Forty: Freshman DL James Johnson

As spring camp draws near, we enter the home stretch of the new faces around Austin. Today, it’s all about the Miami product on the defensive line, James Johnson. The former Georgia commit flipped to the Longhorns in July and has now made his way to Austin. He joins one of the best and deepest DL rooms in the country and continues Kenny Baker’s streak on the recruiting trail. 

Highschool Stats: 101 tackles, 42 TFLs, 12 sacks in two seasons 

Johnson joins the Longhorns from the Sunshine State, joining the parade of elite Florida products to come to Texas. He comes in at 6’3”, 285lbs with elite athletic ability and explosivity. The negative from his high school career has been health. He missed time in his junior and senior seasons with lower body injuries, something that’ll likely need time to get to 100%. He’ll be granted that time with the talent in front of him in the DT/EDGE room. 

Texas flips blue chip DL James Johnson from Georgia 🤘 pic.twitter.com/mOfflilFGN

— John Burrows (@JohnBurrowsCFB) July 15, 2025

Johnson, like many of the Longhorns class, has a longer timeline. He’s unlikely to see the field much, if at all, in 2026 but could factor into the rotation in 2027. He’ll have a prime chance to get healthy, learn from the likes of Hero Kanu and Alex January and hit the ground running this time next year. Now, he could move out and fit into the Justus Terry role in Will Muschamp’s offense. That’ll show itself but the future is bright for Johnnson. 

Welcome to the Forty, @JamesJohnson_52 🤘#AllGas26 | #NSD26pic.twitter.com/bGqDS9TrCG

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) December 3, 2025

Johnson will be given plenty of time to adapt to college football and find his footing. Rocky Cummings enters a LB room that is searching for depth and he’ll have a chance to immediately step up. We’ll get into the Carlsbad product who could surprise some Longhorns fans this spring.

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Fresh Faces on the Forty: Johnson adds more athleticism to DL room

Why left tackle needs to be top priority for Bears this 2026 offseason

The NFL offseason is in full swing, where teams are looking to accomplish what the Seattle Seahawks did in winning the Super Bowl, which involves improving the roster through free agency, the NFL draft and trades. For the Chicago Bears, that could be the difference in another second-round exit, winning the Super Bowl, or taking a step backward.

Heading into the offseason, the Bears have a few glaring needs -- the defensive line (both tackle and end), safety and left tackle. Some may think one is more important than the other, but the truth is, they probably need to address all of them if they want to have success again in 2026. 

While the Bears appeared to have found a potential left tackle of the future in rookie Ozzy Trapilo, he suffered a ruptured patellar tendon during the wild-card playoffs that will sideline him for an unknown amount of time. That means Chicago needs to find a solution at left tackle, be it short-term or long-term.

Trapilo really started to grasp the position as a rookie, but now he’s going through a very difficult recovery process. Free agent Braxton Jones is not likely to return, and while Theo Benedet will be back in 2026, he's not the long-term answer.

The good news is the other four positions on the offensive line are set, which leaves an important hole to fill at left tackle. Chicago should think long and hard about addressing it in a big way. 

No rule says that the Bears can’t address both the defensive line and left tackle. Elite resources should be used on both. They revamped most of their offensive line last offseason; there is no reason they can’t do that to their defensive line this time around while also addressing left tackle.

If the Bears add a star pass rusher, it will take some pressure off Montez Sweat and likely increase his production. In doing so, they will have the pass rush needed for the defense to take a step forward. They were turnover merchants in 2025, and that allowed them to win a few extra games. Repeating that turnover margin in 2026 is unlikely, so getting the pass rush going is a must.

If the Bears address one issue and not the other, they may find themselves looking for answers at the end of next season. At that point, the fresh new smell will be gone. The 2026 season is about competing for the big prize, winning the Super Bowl. Failing to at least make a run will be a massive disappointment.

If Chicago doesn't solidify left tackle and add significant help to the defensive line, they are down a bad path. There are plenty of avenues (NFL draft, free agency, trades) to get this done. It's on general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson to find the right help.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears need to prioritize left tackle this 2026 offseason

A key player for Manchester City is getting back to his best

A key player for Manchester City is getting back to his best
A key player for Manchester City is getting back to his best

Rodri has had to battle through the first half of this season to return to his best for Manchester City. You could see and sense Rodri’s frustration as niggling injuries and rust prevented him from having a bigger impact during the early stages of the 2025/26 season. Pep Guardiola told the media ahead of Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Newcastle that City had rushed their midfield general back too early and they’d expected too much from a player who was coming from a long way back in terms of his fitness. Watching Rodri recently, it is clear that he is getting back to his best, which could be crucial to Manchester City’s Premier League title bid.

Pep Guardiola has shared that Manchester City brought Rodri back too soon but he is now getting back to his best.

Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s win over Newcastle, in quotes relayed by ESPN, Pep Guardiola explained that Rodri was thrust into action too soon earlier this season. The Manchester City manager revealed: “He came back too early. Our desire to get him back, him especially, he came back early, that’s why it was longer. It’s a good lesson.

Human beings have a time for recovery. There are players who can recover earlier, like Bernardo [Silva] for example or Phil [Foden], and other ones need more time. Still it’s not his best but every time his mood and his training and his playing [is improving]. He’s a special player.

Pep Guardiola’s assessment illustrates just how much time Rodri needed to get back to his best. The Spanish midfielder needed time to get his body right. He was provided that opportunity earlier this season, and you can now see the benefits of Rodri’s period of rest.

Rodri was superb for Manchester City against Newcastle. He played a key role in Manchester City’s attacking play, and his ability to spread the play with his cross-field passing was a key element in City’s performance. Manchester City picked up a vital win at the Etihad, and Rodri’s influence in City’s win could not be overlooked. Rodri has battled his way back to his best, and as this season enters a critical phase, Manchester City’s midfield general looks poised to play a key role for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Rodri’s influence will be massive for City across the back end of this season.

Playing in midfield alongside Bernardo Silva and Nico O’Reilly has allowed Rodri to get back to his best, as has a significant period out of the team to rest his body. Now, with Pep Guardiola’s side in four competitions up to their necks, Rodri’s influence will be massive for Manchester City.

Rodri remains one of, if not the best, holding midfielders in European football. That fact has remained while Rodri battled his way back to full fitness. In terms of players who can dictate a match for Manchester City, there almost isn’t another City player who can consistently dominate and influence a match like Rodri can. Manchester City needs Rodri to provide leadership and control the midfield in their upcoming matches. Now that the Ballon d’Or winner looks back to his best, he looks set to do exactly that over the back end of this season.

Rodri has worked his way back from a long way back to resemble the Ballon d’Or winner that he is. That could be crucial to Manchester City’s bid to win multiple competitions this season and with Rodri at his best anything is possible for Pep Guardiola’s side.

PREVIEW | Juventus vs Galatasaray - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | Juventus vs Galatasaray - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | Juventus vs Galatasaray - team news, lineups, predictions

Juventus and Galatasaray face off this Wednesday at the Juventus Stadium in UEFA Champions League.

Last time out, Juventus slipped to a 0-2 defeat against Como 1907 (Serie A 2025/26). In their last encounter, Galatasaray were beaten 2-0 by Konyaspor (Turkey Super Lig 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Galatasaray winning 5-2.

Unavailable

Juventus

Galatasaray

  • Metehan Baltacı - Suspension Through Sports Court

Last starting XIs

Juventus ( vs Como 1907 2026-02-21): Michele Di Gregorio, Federico Gatti, Lloyd Kelly, Teun Koopmeiners, Weston McKennie, Khéphren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, Andrea Cambiaso, Fabio Miretti, Lois Openda, Kenan Yildiz

Galatasaray ( vs Konyaspor 2026-02-21): Uğurcan Çakır, Sacha Boey, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Wilfried Singo, Evren Elmali, Gabriel Sara, Mario Lemina, Leroy Sané, Yunus Akgün, Roland Sallai, Mauro Icardi

Did you know...by playmaker stats

MANAGERS

  • Luciano Spalletti faced Okan Buruk on one occasion, recording a loss.
  • Okan Buruk faced Juventus on one occasion, recording a win.
  • Luciano Spalletti faced Galatasaray on one occasion, recording a loss.

TEAMS

  • Away from home, Galatasaray currently has one draw in the last 16 matches.
  • Galatasaray currently has one loss in the last six matches.
  • Galatasaray has conceded goals in three consecutive matches.
  • At home, Juventus currently has one loss in the last 18 matches.
  • At home, Juventus is coming off two consecutive games without a win.
  • Juventus currently has one win in the last seven matches.
  • Juventus has conceded goals in six consecutive matches.
  • Juventus is coming off five consecutive games without a win.
  • Juventus is coming off three consecutive losses.

HEAD TO HEAD

  • Juventus and Galatasaray have faced each other seven times, with Galatasaray having the advantage: three wins, against one victory for Juventus.
  • At the Juventus Stadium, Juventus has an advantage in the duels against Galatasaray: one win in three matches. Galatasaray has never won on Juventus' ground, with two draws recorded.
  • In the Champions League, seven matches were played between the two teams, with Juventus winning once, three draws and three victories for Galatasaray.

Michigan football's coaching exodus: Where did they land?

There has been a changing of the guard in Ann Arbor, and with that, there have been a lot of changes to the coaching staff.

With Kyle Whittingham taking over the Michigan football program, he mostly cleaned house, but initially kept two coaches (running backs coach Tony Alford and defensive line coach Lou Esposito) before Esposito chose to try his hand at the NFL, following Jesse Minter to Baltimore. But otherwise, everyone else above the line is out.

However, three of Michigan's other eight position coaches found new homes in the past 24 hours.

On Sunday, though it had been previously reported, it was officially announced that secondary coach LaMar Morgan is bound for Norman, taking on the cornerbacks coach position with Oklahoma. That means he will return to The Big House in Week 2 in the 2026 season.

Welcome to Norman, @coachdmc and @CoachLMorgan!

🔗 » https://t.co/7bNf2vLYmApic.twitter.com/PuJtuZCdvV

— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) February 22, 2026

He's not the only one to land a job in short order.

On Monday, Texas announced its entire coaching staff, above and below the line, and two Michigan position coaches ended up in Austin (on the other side of the Red River Rivalry). Per the update, former tight ends coach and co-offensive coordinator Steve Casula as well as Texas native and special teams coach JB Brown have been hired as analysts for the Longhorns.

Excited to announce new additions and staff promotions within our football program 🤘 pic.twitter.com/7fcvMZxAoW

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) February 23, 2026

Here is where every assistant from last year's team has landed:

  • Offensive coordinator - Chip Lindsey (Missouri)
  • Offensive line - Grant Newsome (New York Giants - asst. OL coach)
  • Wide receivers - Ron Bellamy (unknown)
  • Tight Ends - Steve Casula (Texas - analyst)
  • Running backs - Tony Alford (Michigan)
  • Defensive coordinator - Wink Martindale (unknown)
  • Defensive line - Lou Esposito (Baltimore Ravens)
  • Linebackers - Brian Jean-Mary (Notre Dame)
  • Defensive backs - LaMar Morgan (Oklahoma - cornerbacks)
  • Special teams - JB Brown (Texas - analyst)

This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football: Where former coaches landed after changes

USA-Canada Hockey Finale Draws Significant Action, Differing Liabilities

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The U.S. men’s hockey team’s first Olympic gold medal since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” had a significant impact on North American sports betting operators.

Key Takeaways

  • The USA-Canada men’s final was one of the most-bet hockey games ever at DraftKings.

  • FanDuel reported that over two-thirds of the moneyline wagers were on the U.S.

  • One Canadian operator was saved by Team USA’s overtime win.

The 2-1 overtime thriller over Canada in Sunday’s early-morning, dramatic finale was a huge hit with bettors.

“Despite the early start time for our customers, the Men’s Gold Medal game generated tremendous betting activity - ranking among the most-bet hockey games in DraftKings Sportsbook history,” Johnny Avello, the director of DraftKings Sportsbook, told Covers on Monday. “As expected, Team USA drew strong support from our American customers, while Canada saw significant backing from customers in Ontario.” 

Unforgettable finish

Sunday’s final put hockey on a big stage, and the game didn’t disappoint. 

“This was an outstanding Olympic tournament capped by a thrilling gold-medal matchup, and the momentum from this game should carry into the remainder of the NHL season and through the Stanley Cup Playoffs,” Avello said.

The favorite to capture Gold before the Olympics began earlier this month, the Canadian team entered the final against the U.S. at -125 on the moneyline, with the American squad listed at +105. 

FanDuel reported that 77% of the wagers and 70% of the handle backed the U.S. The operator had to pay out the vast majority of bets when Jack Hughes snuck the puck between goalie Jordan Binnington’s legs less than two minutes into 3-on-3 OT hockey.   

USA needed a finisher. Jack Hughes delivered. #WinterOlympicspic.twitter.com/DBWsSAEXbe

— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) February 22, 2026

Dagger to Canada

North of the border, BET99 said it took a ton of action in Ontario in many forms, including odds boosts and specials, for months, creating “significant liability.”

“That exposure only grew when Canada went down a goal early, and bettors jumped on inflated in-play prices that topped out at +200 before (Cale) Makar evened the score at 1-1,” BET99 Sportsbook manager Cliff Adelman told Covers on Monday. “Unsurprisingly, Canadian pride showed at the betting window. From puck drop to Jack Hughes' OT dagger, 95% of live bets backed Canada to win.” 

That saved the operator from a massive loss with Canada getting Silver, but it put BET99 in a precarious position. 

“While BET99 trading team sported Team Canada jerseys and shared the same tension as our players with every missed opportunity, the final result brought a welcome sigh of relief from a (profit-and-loss) perspective,” Adelman said. “It was a classic case of patriotic money pouring in and a reminder that when Canada plays for gold, the betting action follows.”

Futures liability

As big a win as it was for the Americans, it was as disappointing for Team Canada and its betting backers. BetMGM listed the Canadian superteam with odds of +115 to capture gold right before the start of the Olympics. Canada was getting 45.4% of the handle and 42% of the tickets. 

By the time they reached the semifinals, the odds were down to -130. 

A scare from Slovakia might’ve given futures bettors cause for concern, but on paper, Canada was still the best team. However, the U.S. squad wasn’t too far behind. BetMGM listed the Americans second at +200 before the tournament, when they were getting 36.6% of the wagers and 48.5% of the money.

By the time the U.S. team reached the semifinals against Sweden, the odds were down to +125, and the Americans surpassed Canada with 59.3% of the bets. The Canadian team held 55.3% of the money, but Team USA was the bigger liability.

Connor McDavid is the MVP of men's Olympic tournament! 🇨🇦

McDavid was (+600) to win the award pre-tournament.

2024 Conn Smythe Trophy 🟰 Loss in SCF
2026 Olympic MVP 🟰 Loss in Gold Medal Game pic.twitter.com/mKBHlpa84d

— BET99 Ontario (@BET99ON) February 22, 2026

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.

What was Rondale Moore's cause of death? What we know so far

As the community continues to mourn Rondale Moore, Trinity High School football star turned NFL wide receiver, the New Albany Police Department is continuing to investigate.

Moore was found dead in the garage of a property in the 1600 block of Ekin Avenue in New Albany Feb. 21, according to previous reporting. He was 25 years old.

Here's what we know so far:

How did Rondale Moore die? New Albany Police issues statement on cause of death

In a statement provided to USA TODAY, New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey said Moore died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"Due to consideration for Moore's family, we are not releasing specific case information," he added.

A spokesperson for the Floyd County Coroner's Office said Moore's autopsy has not been completed.

Who was Rondale Moore?

A New Albany, Indiana, native, Moore transferred from New Albany High School to Trinity High School to play football in 2016. He was a first-team All-State selection as a senior at Trinity in 2017, where he helped the team win a state championship with an undefeated season. After graduating high school in 2018, Moore went on to play three seasons at Purdue. As a freshman, he caught 114 passes for 1,258 yards and 12 touchdowns, became a first-team All-American and won the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player.

In 2021, Moore was a second-round NFL draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals, where he played for three seasons before he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. He missed the entire 2024 season after suffering a knee injury during training camp. Moore was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, though he suffered another knee injury during a preseason game against the Houston Texans, forcing him to sit out for the season.

Jeff Brohm, Purdue football, NFL release statements following Rondale Moore's death

Moore's death prompted a number of tributes from previous coaches, including University of Louisville football coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue. Moore originally committed to the University of Texas at Austin before deciding to attend Purdue, according to previous reporting.

"Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach. The ultimate competitor that wouldn’t back down from any challenge," Brohm, a fellow Trinity alumnus, said in a post to X Feb. 21. "Rondale had a work ethic unmatched by anyone. A great teammate what would come through in any situation. We all loved Rondale. We loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all of our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family. We love him very much.”

In a statement to X Feb. 21, Purdue football officials said Moore would be remembered as a legendary Boilermaker, adding their thoughts and prayers are with Moore's loved ones.

The Purdue Football family is deeply saddened by the news of Rondale Moore’s tragic passing. An All-American with an infectious smile, Rondale was a joy on and off the field. Someone who left this world too soon, Rondale will be remembered as a legendary Boilermaker.

Our… pic.twitter.com/ONh5YI1aTR

— Purdue Football (@BoilerFootball) February 22, 2026

Trinity High School remembered Moore in a statement posted to Facebook Feb. 22.

"Rondale was a wonderful young man — a relentless competitor, a humble teammate, a respected leader, and a serious student. He represented Trinity with pride in our halls, on Friday nights, at the college level, and on the professional stage," the post states. "More importantly, he treated people well. Younger players looked up to him. Coaches trusted him. Teachers appreciated him. He made the building better simply by being in it."

Moore also received tributes from members of the NFL, including the Arizona Cardinals and the Minnesota Vikings. In a statement posted to X Feb. 21, the NFL Players Association said Moore's death serves as a reminder to prioritize mental health and for players to check on their teammates.

"In moments like this, we are reminded of how much our players carry, on and off the field," the post reads.

Jason Frakes and Leo Bertucci contributed.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Rondale Moore's cause of death released in statement

Winners and losers from a record-breaking NASCAR Cup race at Atlanta

Motorsport photo

Let's start off this week's edition of 'Winners and Losers' by just applauding the minds behind the Atlanta reconfiguration. The new version of this historic track has quickly asserted itself as one of the best on the schedule, and consistently puts on the most exciting races. On Sunday, 14 different drivers took a turn out front with a record 57 lead changes.

And despite all of the chaos and carnage, it was the exact same result as one week ago as Michael Jordan and Tyler Redddick celebrated the win, further extending their advantage in the championship standings.

As is the case with many of these chaotic races, we couldn't possibly include every winner and loser, but here's a look at some of the biggest and most interesting winners/losers from a sensational race around EchoPark Speedway: 

WINNER: Tyler Reddick has no fender, and that's no problem

Watch: Reddick on second win: 'Sometimes things are just meant to be'

Reddick's Atlanta win might actually be more impressive than his dramatic Daytona 500 triumph. The #45 car was wrecked, spinning down the frontstretch with its right-front fender completely missing within 50 laps of the finish. And yet, the team bolted fresh tires to the wounded car and Reddick stormed back through the field. He went from being the pusher on an overtime restart to driving off with the win, going back-to-back in a feat not seen in the NASCAR Cup Series since 2009. 

LOSER: Hocevar's great run gets overshadowed...again

Christopher Bell crashes in overtime restart

Christopher Bell crashes in overtime restart

Carson Hocevar had another fantastic run on Sunday, and yet another shot at securing his first win in the Cup Series. Ultimately, he finished fourth, but just like last year's race at Atlanta, he didn't reach the checkered flag without ruffling a few feathers. He spun Logano in an honest mistake in the middle of the race, but once he could sniff the race lead in overtime, Hocevar let his aggression get the best of him. He wedged his way between Bell and Wallace seconds into the first overtime restart, and Bell went crashing into the outside wall. And on the final lap, he drove Wallace directly in the wall before driving off with a top-five finish. Based on his recent social posts, he doesn't really care about the run-ins, and that will make for some great television, but it won't make his season any easier on the track.

WINNER: SVG goes off-roading and scores his best oval finish yet

Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet

Shane van Gisbergen's best result on an oval in the NASCAR Cup Series was tenth before Atlanta, but now it's sixth. The 3x Supercars champion even got as high as fourth on the final lap, but what made his run more impressive was what he had to battle back from. SVG was moments away from a potential third-place finish in Stage 2 when Kyle Larson came down, sending him through the infield grass (and partially airborne). As the team worked to get the car right after that, SVG spun on his own, taking a second trip through the infield. But despite all that, he still surged forward at the end with fresh tires, and was integral in getting teammate Ross Chastain into a podium spot with a mighty shove at the white flag. Oh, and we're heading to a road course next week...

LOSER: Bubba Wallace and what could have been

Watch: Bubba Wallace left thinking 'what could've been' after EchoPark

It felt like deja vu as Reddick celebrated on the frontstretch while Michael Jordan consoled Wallace in the pit lane, similar to the scene we saw at Daytona one week ago. And while a tough loss at the 500 was due to circumstances beyond Wallace's immediate control, he was surely kicking himself after Atlanta. The #23 was in control with teammate Reddick pushing, but when they got clear of the outside line, Wallace went up in front of the ever-aggressive Hocevar, and he nearly went all the way to the wall, giving Hocevar and pusher Chastain just enough room to shuffle him out of line. While he finished a disappointing eighth, the good news is that Wallace is second in the championship standings. But as Reddick celebrates back-to-back wins, Wallace knows just how close he was to standing in his place in Victory Lane.

WINNER: Daniel Suarez shines at Spire

Daniel Suarez, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

Daniel Suarez, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

After a top five run in the Bowman Gray exhibition race, Suarez has hit the ground running with Spire Motorsports. He avoided the last-lap wreck at Daytona to bring home the team's best finish, and then pushed Hocevar to a double top-five for the team at Atlanta. Suarez now sits inside the top ten in points, and seems to be gelling nicely with his new team.

LOSER: Kyle Larson's race-ending error

Kyle Larson crash damage, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Kyle Larson crash damage, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Larson took full responsibility for this, admitting he 'screwed up' on the final lap of Stage 2. Larson was in the top line through Turn 4 with the green-and-white checkered flag in sight, but he chose to cut all the way down to the bottom. He did this while unaware of SVG, who had just charged by multiple cars and was now to Larson's inside. Contact was made, and Larson violently slammed the outside wall, costing him a lot of points and ending a promising day. Larson's race ended over 100 laps shy of the finish, but he still led more laps than anyone besides the race winner.

WINNER: Zane Smith quietly remains top five in the standings

Zane Smith, Front Row Motorsports Ford

Zane Smith, Front Row Motorsports Ford

No one is really talking about the FRM driver, but they should be. He had a shot to win the Daytona 500 after winning a stage in the season-opener, ultimately finishing sixth and avoiding the frontstretch melee. At Atlanta, he finished an impressive seventh with another clean run that now has him fifth in the championship standings. It's early days, but still a great start for the No. 38 team. Last year, he led just 22 laps and scored five top tens, but after just two races in 2026, he's at ten laps led and two top tens. Smith is well on his way to having his best season yet in the Cup Series if he can keep it up.

LOSER: All the drivers already falling behind in the points

Christopher Bell, No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota; Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Christopher Bell, No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota; Alex Bowman, No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet

Speaking of the points, there's some very notable drivers facing fairly deep holes already in the 2026 season. Bell wrecked from the front row in overtime, and that combined with another late-race crash at the 500 means he is 31st in points right now. And even with just 25 points scored through the first two races, there's several other big name drivers in worse spots. Alex Bowman sits 32nd in the No. 48 Hendrick Chevy, Bell's JGR teammate Ty Gibbs is 33rd, Austin Dillon 34th, Todd Gilliland 35th, and rising star Connor Zilisch is 36th -- last among full-time drivers after two wrecks to start his rookie campaign. 

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

⚠️ RB Bragantino announce punishment for defender after sexist remarks

⚠️ RB Bragantino announce punishment for defender after sexist remarks
⚠️ RB Bragantino announce punishment for defender after sexist remarks

RB Bragantino announced the punishment of defender Gustavo Marques for his sexist remarks following the defeat and subsequent elimination against São Paulo.

On that occasion, Gustavo Marques said that referee Daiane Muniz should not "officiate a game of this magnitude," referring to the quarterfinal match of the Paulistão.

This Monday (23), RB Bragantino stated that Gustavo Marques will receive a fine amounting to 50% of his total earnings.

In addition, the defender will not be included in the squad for the match against Athletico, at 7:00 PM on Wednesday (25), at Cícero de Souza.

Besides the punishment imposed by the club, Gustavo Marques may also be punished by the Sports Justice system.

According to CNN, the defender may be charged under Article 243-G of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD).

The article mentions "committing a discriminatory, disdainful, or outrageous act, related," among others, to prejudice based on sex."

The penalty in such cases is a suspension of five to ten matches, in addition to a fine ranging from R$ 100 to R$ 100,000.


Featured photo: Ari Ferreira/RB Bragantino

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Dodgers Hit With Concerning Blake Snell Outlook for Opening Day

Feb 17, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) and pitcher Blake Snell (7) warm up during a Spring Training workout at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Dodgers may need to get ready for starting pitcher Blake Snell to miss the start of the season as his ramp-up for the season progresses slowly.

According to The Athletic’s Katie Woo, Snell is throwing off the flat ground, but he is still far from getting ready for a true start, with a little more than a month left until the season starts.

“Time’s ticking, but like I told him the other day, Opening Day is not necessarily a hard and fast target for us,” manager Dave Roberts said.

Snell is known for starting slow, especially given his injury-prone nature, but then pushing things up in the second half of the season.

Feb 17, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) and pitcher Blake Snell (7) warm up during a Spring Training workout at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
Feb 17, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) and pitcher Blake Snell (7) warm up during a Spring Training workout at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

Last season, Snell got injured early, battling with shoulder discomfort, and missing the first half, stretching the team’s depth amid a run of injuries.

Dave Roberts says Blake Snell isn’t ready to start ramping up too much just yet in Spring Training:

“He’s playing catch, he’s throwing. Once he gets off the mound, throws a pen, faces hitters, we’ll know more.”

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) February 16, 2026

However, the lefty was more than ready for the actual start of the postseason stretch, being the dominant, front-of-the-line starter that the team needed, especially with a weak bullpen.

Blake Snell learned his lesson in 2025

Snell does not seem concerned about his slow start, expressing confidence that he understands his body and is in no rush to return to the mound.

After seemingly rushing back, the Cy Young award winner wants to take things slowly.

“I’ve been playing catch, been throwing. It feels good,” Snell said at DodgerFest.

“But I’m just going to take my time. Last year, I was rushing. I wanted to pitch so bad. But I’m going to take my time. The goal is to be ready Opening Day, but I’m going to take my time. I’ll know more once I’m [at Spring Training], throwing bullpens, pitching in games.

“Last year, I had so much to prove. I got way too excited and was really pushing to get to spring, get through spring. This year, I’m going to be a little slower just in how I ramp up — be a lot more smarter on that.”

The Dodgers, meanwhile, enter the season with as much pitching depth as ever, and that will allow Roberts and the organization to give Snell all the room that he needs.

“Whatever is best for Blake — or any of our pitchers, for that matter — we’re going to do,” Roberts said.

“Where he’s at, once we get to Spring Training and how his arm feels, there’s a buildup from there. If it doesn’t line up with Opening Day, the first series, then it doesn’t.”

Indie Wrestler Nicolth Hernandez-Lucero Detained By ICE, Family Sets Up Fundraiser

Nicolth Hernandez-Lucero with her trainer Gangrel
Nicolth Hernandez-Lucero with her trainer Gangrel - Gangrel

Over the last month, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, better known as ICE, has become entangled with pro wrestling, most notably thanks to AEW star Brody King, who's anti-ICE activism has translated into anti-ICE chants on AEW programming. Now, another ICE/wrestling related story has emerged, and it's one that will do little to quell the anti-ICE chants at AEW shows or other wrestling events.

Almost two weeks ago, independent wrestler Nicolth Hernandez-Lucero was detained by ICE agents while driving home. The incident was recorded by Hernandez-Lucero's husband Noah Lazega, who was on the phone with her at the time of her arrest. Hernandez-Lucero remains in ICE custody to this day, while Lazega has launched a GoFundMe to help her legal battle; so far, he has raised $20,749 out of a goal of $28,000. Among the most notable names to make donations are former AEW Women's World Champion Kris Statlander, and WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, under her real name Rebecca Quin.

Hernandez-Lucero first debuted as a wrestler back in 2018, after receiving training from former WWE star Gangrel. She would form a tag team with her sister, Tiffany, called the Lucero Twins, and found singles success in 2019, when she won the GWA Women's Championship for Gangrel's wrestling promotion, the Gangrel Wrestling Asylum. 

It's unclear if Hernandez-Lucero has continued her wrestling career over the last few years, however, as her last recorded match, according to Cagematch, was in 2023, while Lazega's GoFundMe for Hernandez-Lucero describes her as working as a surgical technician. Days after news of Hernandez-Lucero being detained broke, Gangrel took to Facebook to offer support for his student, sharing the link to Lazega's GoFundMe page.

Read more: 6 Wild Interviews Wrestling Stars Did With Howard Stern

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Jets quarterback plan expected to take shape at NFL Scouting Combine

Jets quarterback plan expected to take shape at NFL Scouting Combine originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets are coming off a brutal 2025 season, and Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey might be on the hot seat.

To help cool things down, the Jets need to fix their quarterback room. After taking a $40 million gamble on Justin Fields that didn't work out, the Jets need to find a new offensive leader this offseason. Their plan isn't known just yet.

But, as Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic notes, the Jets' plan at quarterback might take shape at the NFL Scouting Combine. With prospects meeting with teams, and teams all in attendance, the Jets' plan at quarterback could take shape in the next week.

Jets expected to get some answers at QB during NFL Combine

The Jets could wind up taking a rookie in the 2026 draft class, or they could sign or trade for a veteran like Kyler Murray, Malik Willis, or Mac Jones. Their decision could begin taking shape soon.

"If Glenn is on the hot seat, is he more likely make an expensive gamble on someone such as Willis, Jones, or Murray?" Rosenblatt writes. "Some of the answers to those questions will start to take shape in Indianapolis."

The NFL Scouting Combine is a good time for teams to get a lay of the land before the offseason truly begins. This is the first big offseason date for the NFL, and for the Jets, it's a great opportunity to begin formulating a QB plan.

MoreJets urged to 'kick the tires' on trades for Eagles and Texans backup QBs

If the Jets meet with prospects and fall in love with one, they would be able to take them wherever they want with plenty of draft capital.

They could also talk to other teams and get an idea of what it could cost to trade for someone like Murray or Jones, or even someone like Tua Tagovailoa.

But, regardless of what the Jets wind up deciding, the NFL Combine is a huge time for the Jets, as they will likely get a better idea of the QB landscape this offseason at the Combine.

More Jets news:

NBA Star Eyes 2028 LA Olympics Despite Reports Stating 2024 Olympics Were His Last

United States shooting guard Stephen Curry (4) and guard LeBron James (6) and guard Kevin Durant (7) celebrate with their gold medals on the podium after defeating France in the men's basketball gold medal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena on Aug 10, 2024.

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant told ESPN he plans to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. He will turn 40 years old in September 2028 and will be looking to win his fifth Olympic gold medal with Team USA.

“Hell yeah, I want to play,” Durant said, per ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill. “I would love to, but I’ve got to stay on top of my game. I’m not expecting, I want to produce on the floor and make Grant and whoever is making the decisions, want to put me on the team. I don’t want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can help the team win.”

“Today, yeah I feel like I’ll put my name in that hat.”

Durant has been Team USA’s leading scorer in three of his four Olympic appearances throughout his career. He broke Team USA’s scoring record with 156 total points and 34 three-pointers at the 2012 London Olympics. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he averaged a US Olympic record 20.7 points per game. 

Durant is the only four-time Olympic gold medalist in men’s basketball history.

Durant Debunked Rumors That 2024 Paris Olympics Were His Last

It was widely believed that the 2024 Paris Olympics would be the last with Durant, LeBron James and Stephen Curry on the squad. While James confirmed he will not participate, Durant and Curry have yet to confirm if they will participate in 2028.

“You guys, the media, have projected that,” Durant told ESPN, per Goodwill. “That narrative, where did the last dance thing come from? I didn’t say I wasn’t playing. LeBron said he wasn’t. You didn’t hear that from me or Steph.”

United States shooting guard Stephen Curry (4) and guard LeBron James (6) and guard Kevin Durant (7) celebrate with their gold medals on the podium after defeating France in the men's basketball gold medal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena on Aug 10, 2024.
Aug 10, 2024; Paris, France; United States shooting guard Stephen Curry (4) and guard LeBron James (6) and guard Kevin Durant (7) celebrate with their gold medals on the podium after defeating France in the men’s basketball gold medal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

James could retire as early as the end of the 2025-26 NBA season. Meanwhile, Curry is signed through 2027 with the Golden State Warriors and recently told People Magazine he was not planning to retire in the near future.

“I’ll declare itself, whenever the time comes to call it quits, which I don’t think is anytime soon,” Curry told People.

Durant signed a two-year, $90 million contract extension with the Rockets, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, in October.

Photo Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

The post NBA Star Eyes 2028 LA Olympics Despite Reports Stating 2024 Olympics Were His Last appeared first on LA Sports Report.

Brazil U20s impress, squad depth shines at Copa Sul-Americana

Brazil U20s impress, squad depth shines at Copa Sul-Americana
Brazil U20s impress, squad depth shines at Copa Sul-Americana

The Brazil Women's U-20 National Team is experiencing in the South American Championship the moment that coach Camilla Orlando has emphasized since the beginning: evolution throughout the competition. With each game, Brazil has become more consistent and confident, turning words into performance on the field, which is reflected in results and in the collective strength that has become the team's main trademark. For Camilla Orlando, Brazil’s greatest asset lies precisely in the preparation of the entire group and the shared mentality among the athletes.

The numbers prove this collective strength. Brazil has already had 13 different players score goals in the tournament, highlighting a distributed, unpredictable, and difficult-to-mark attack. The variety of goal scorers shows that the team does not depend on a single athlete and reinforces the confidence built throughout the campaign.

Camilla Orlando during the match against Argentina in the final hexagonal of the South American U-20 ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images / CBF

“Our greatest strength is the power of our group, our squad. Everyone is being prepared to play at any moment, and they have embraced this idea. Even when a player is out, she knows she’ll be ready when the opportunity arises. We’ve had goals from different players, and that is very special,” the coach emphasized.

Among the individual highlights is forward Brendha, Brazil’s top scorer in the competition, with four goals. She is just behind Argentina’s Kishi Núñez, who has one more goal and leads the top scorers’ list in the South American Championship. Even in great form, Brendha made a point of valuing the collective work and the environment built within the group.

Staff

Forward Brendha during a match of the South American U-20 Championship in ParaguayCredits: Staff Images / CBF

“I am very happy with this moment, but none of this would be possible without my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who believes in my work. It’s the result of a lot of daily effort, and when the opportunity comes, I try to make the most of it. Scoring for the National Team is a dream for all of us,” she said.

Leader of the final hexagonal, Brazil returns to the field next Wednesday (25th), at 6 p.m., at the Centro de Alto Rendimento de Futebol Feminino Stadium in Paraguay, to face Ecuador, the runner-up in the decisive phase. With a victory, the Brazilian National Team will be very close to securing the title and crowning a campaign marked by the maturity and commitment of a group that has evolved together with each match.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Monday Morning Minnesota: The “PabNo” Edition

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 19: Pablo Lopez #49 of the Minnesota Twins walks to the dugout after pitching against the Cleveland Guardians in the third inning of the game at Target Field on September 19, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It is truly just my luck that right after I published last week’s Monday Morning Minnesota, we started getting reports about Pablo Lopez having a potential elbow issue. Now, Pablo is out for the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery, and Joe Ryan was diagnosed with lower back inflammation, which might jeopardize his ability to pitch in the World Baseball Classic. Anyways, keep an eye out for the injury report today for the Twins; I apologize in advance for any misfortune this article may cause.

The Past Week on Twinkie Town:

Elsewhere in Twins Territory:

In the World of Baseball:

  • The MLBPA’s prep for the upcoming labor negotiations hit a snag as executive director Tony Clark resigned after an internal investigation. Jeff Passan at ESPN examines the fallout from Clark’s resignation and what the union should do in this new chapter.
  • The MLB.com beat writers get together and provide one dark horse candidate for each team’s Opening Day roster.
  • David Adler at MLB.com gives us 11 players to watch out for at the World Baseball Classic.

Cowboys' Stephen Jones: We know George Pickens is going to be here

Don’t expect George Pickens to become a free agent.

USA TODAY Sports predicted the wide receiver would remain in Dallas at least for next season. Cowboys chief operating officer and co-owner Stephen Jones confirmed the team plans to place Pickens under the franchise tag – at least for now.

Jones told a group of reporters at the NFL combine the Cowboys will franchise tag Pickens as they continue to negotiate a long-term extension.

“I wouldn’t put any timeframe (on a contract),” Jones told reporters. “Once you have a tag, you have a tag. We know George is going to be here.”

Pickens is coming off career-high year. He notched single-season bests in catches (93), receiving yards (1,429) and touchdown grabs (9). He was named a second-team All-Pro for the first time in his career.

The Cowboys traded for Pickens prior to the 2025 season hoping he wouldn’t be just a one-hit wonder.

The franchise tag for wide receivers is worth approximately $28.8 million, per Over The Cap.

The tag is a safety net for the Cowboys as they don’t want to lose one of their best players in free agency. However, coming to an agreement on a long-term extension could present some challenges.

Dallas is already paying wideout CeeDee Lamb an average annual salary of $34 million. The Cincinnati Bengals are the only team in the NFL paying two wide receivers more than $28 million per season.

Another factor is Pickens is represented by agent David Mulugheta. Mulugheta also represents Micah Parsons. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Mulugheta were at a standstill last year when Parsons was seeking an extension. Jerry Jones believed he and Parsons had a deal without speaking to Parsons’ agent. Contract talks broke down and Parsons was ultimately traded to the Green Bay Packers.

It remains to be seen if the Cowboys and Mulugheta can come to a long-term contract agreement for Pickens. Though, the Cowboys do plan for Pickens to be in Dallas for 2026.

“We want Pickens here. Think the world of him,” Stephen Jones said. “I want him here. I love him and I think he wants to be here. All that is a plus.”

NFL free agency: Ranking the top 100 NFL free agents of 2026

Follow USA TODAY Sports' Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: George Pickens to get Dallas Cowboys franchise tag

PREVIEW | PSG vs Monaco - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | PSG vs Monaco - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | PSG vs Monaco - team news, lineups, predictions

PSG and Monaco clash this Wednesday at the Parc des Princes of the UEFA Champions League.

Last time out, PSG triumphed 3-0 against Metz (Ligue 1 2025/26). In their last match, Monaco prevailed 2-3 against Lens (Ligue 1 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with PSG winning 3-2.

Unavailable

PSG

  • Ousmane Dembélé - Calf Injury
  • Fabián Ruiz - Knee Injury
  • Senny Mayulu - Calf Injury
  • Quentin Ndjantou - Hamstring Injury

Monaco

  • Takumi Minamino - Torn Knee Ligaments
  • Aleksandr Golovin - Red Card Suspension
  • Mohammed Salisu - Cruciate Ligament Tear
  • Maghnes Akliouche - Hip Injury
  • Kassoum Ouattara - Calf Injury
  • Paul Pogba - Calf Injury
  • Mamadou Coulibaly - Yellow Card Suspension

Last starting XIs

PSG ( vs Metz 2026-02-21): Matvey Safonov, Achraf Hakimi, Lucas Beraldo, Illia Zabarnyi, Lucas Hernández, Lee Kang-in, Dro Fernández, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Désiré Doué, Gonçalo Ramos, Bradley Barcola

Monaco ( vs Lens 2026-02-21): Philipp Kohn, Wout Faes, Caio Henrique, Jordan Teze, Thilo Kehrer, Denis Zakaria, Lamine Camara, Mamadou Coulibaly, Simon Adingra, Krépin Diatta, Folarin Balogun

Did you know...by playmaker stats

MANAGERS

  • Luis Enrique faced Sébastien Pocognoli on two occasions, recording one win and one loss
  • Sébastien Pocognoli faced PSG on two occasions, recording one win and one loss
  • Luis Enrique faced Monaco on seven occasions, recording five wins, one draw, and one loss

TEAMS

  • Away from home, Monaco comes from two consecutive games without losing.
  • Monaco comes from three consecutive games scoring goals.
  • Monaco comes from three consecutive games conceding goals.
  • At home, PSG currently has one loss in the last 11 games.
  • At home, PSG comes from four consecutive games scoring goals.
  • At home, PSG comes from four consecutive games without losing.
  • At home, PSG comes from two consecutive victories.
  • PSG currently has one loss in the last seven games.
  • PSG comes from nine consecutive games scoring goals.
  • PSG comes from two consecutive games without losing.
  • PSG comes from two consecutive victories.

HEAD TO HEAD

  • PSG and Monaco have faced each other 116 times, with Monaco having the advantage: 49 wins, compared to 38 victories for PSG.
  • At Parc des Princes, PSG has an advantage in duels against Monaco: 20 wins in 53 games. Monaco has 19 victories.
  • In the Champions League, a match was held between the two teams, with PSG winning.

Liverpool's move to sign phenomenal striker is now on

Liverpool's move to sign phenomenal striker is now on
Liverpool's move to sign phenomenal striker is now on

Liverpool have an exciting striker who can now join the club after some phenomenal performances.

The Reds are still a little lightweight in attack. Alexander Isak's injury has definitely taken a toll on Hugo Ekitike.

The Frenchman has become Liverpool's sole no.9 for the last few months and required to play every minute of every game.

That hasn't been easy on Ekitike. Yet he's still delivering impressive numbers with 19 goals and assists so far this season.

Isak's return should hopefully alleviate the pressure on the Frenchman.

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However, long-term it is becoming clear that Liverpool cannot rely on Isak and Ekitike alone, especially if they want the two players to play together.

In an ideal world, they need a third striker. A back-up option who can operate behind Isak and Ekitike but who has the potential to be competing with them as well.

When looking for back-up options, there is no better team to search for potential gems than at Red Bull Salzburg. How many of the club's best players made their names at one of Red Bull's clubs?

Ibrahima Konate, Dominik Szoboszlai and Sadio Mane. Not to mention Takumi Minamino and Naby Keita also all played for Red Bull, four of them represented Red Bull Salzburg.

The Austrian giants have a knack for finding the best talents worldwide, particularly when it comes to attacking talent.

This is the club that also helped Erling Haaland, Benjamin Sesko and many others break onto the scene.

Now there's another special forward following in their footsteps who was previously unavailable due to an ACL injury but a potential move for him is now on again.

Karim Konate has long been considered as the best striker talent to come through at Salzburg since Haaland. In his entire career so far he has averaged a goal or assist every 83 minutes for his current team.

This equals to 49 goal contributions in just over 4062 minutes played.

It's an incredible record and it just gives you a taste of the kind of player he is. Konate is an advanced forward who thrives inside the box and who loves to find space and get himself into goal-scoring opportunities.

He has elite movement, a great burst of speed and excellent finishing attributes.

At just 21-years-old, he looks like he can go to the very top of the game.

© IMAGO - Karim Konate Liverpool

However, an ACL injury he suffered last season looked to potentially derail or even curtail his promising career. Konate missed over a year of football.

He came back towards the end of December and was gradually phased back at Salzburg.

This worked a treat. In 316 minutes so far, Konate already has five goal contributions. He scored against Aston Villa in the Europa League and has netted both in the Austrian Cup and the Austrian Bundesliga.

That quick start shows that there should be no concerns about his injury. Thankfully, young players can bounce back a lot easier from an ACL blow. Konate got the very best treatment and he's come back and started how he left off.

It's clear he is a phenomenal striker and it's also very clear now that he is free of his injury he can absolutely join Liverpool. Behind Ekitike and Isak, he's the perfect option.

Cooper Flagg’s Tonight Show debut scrapped as Mavericks get stranded

Cooper Flagg’s Tonight Show debut scrapped as Mavericks get stranded originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The week was lining up to be another milestone in Cooper Flagg’s already electric rookie season.

A road matchup in Brooklyn. A national late-night television appearance. Another reminder that the 19-year-old is not just producing numbers, but becoming a face of the league.

Instead, a blizzard changed the itinerary.

Severe winter weather across the Northeast forced the Dallas Mavericks to remain in Indianapolis following their 134-130 win over the Indiana Pacers. With thousands of flights canceled and major delays at New York-area airports, the team was unable to travel in time for Flagg’s scheduled appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

What was supposed to be a celebration of his rapid ascent became a weather casualty.

A spotlight put on hold

Flagg’s planned late-night debut would have marked another symbolic step in a season filled with them. Not many rookies are invited onto a national talk show before the All-Star break. Even fewer do it while serving as the offensive engine of an NBA franchise.

The Mavericks chose caution over chaos. Rather than risk uncertain travel conditions, the team stayed put and adjusted its schedule. Head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the unpredictability of the situation, noting that travel in these conditions comes with no guarantees.

For Flagg, the disappointment is understandable. The opportunity represented more than television exposure. It was validation that his impact has extended beyond box scores.

MORE:  Michael Jordan was supposed to boost NBC’s NBA coverage. Instead, he’s barely there

From Duke star to Dallas cornerstone

Flagg entered the league carrying massive expectations after his lone collegiate season with the Duke Blue Devils. Selected No. 1 overall in the 2025 draft, he immediately became central to Dallas’ future plans.

Through 49 games, he is averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists in just over 34 minutes per night. He is shooting 48.2 percent from the field and over 80 percent from the free-throw line. His 999 total points lead the team.

The raw numbers are impressive. The milestones are even louder.

Flagg became the youngest player in league history to score 40 points in a game. He later delivered a 49-point, 10-rebound performance, becoming the first rookie since Michael Jordan in 1985 to post a 49-and-10 stat line. He also strung together four consecutive 30-point games, another mark that underscores just how quickly he has adapted to the professional level.

Dallas is not easing him into responsibility. He is initiating offense, closing games and defending across positions. For a franchise transitioning into a new era, he has already become the centerpiece.

An injury adds another layer

The travel setback arrives as Flagg works his way back from a left midfoot sprain suffered before the All-Star break. He has progressed out of a walking boot and resumed light workouts, but remains day to day.

That context matters. The Mavericks are thinking long term. Protecting a 19-year-old cornerstone takes precedence over short-term headlines, whether that means missing a game or a television appearance.

Still, the optics are notable. In a matter of weeks, Flagg went from record-setting rookie to injured observer to weather-delayed guest. The momentum has paused, even if briefly.

The bigger picture

The snowstorm may have canceled one appearance, but it has not cooled the momentum surrounding Flagg’s first season. His profile continues to rise. His production continues to validate the hype.

The Mavericks will eventually make their way to Brooklyn. The Tonight Show invitation can be rescheduled. And Flagg’s return to full health appears to be trending in the right direction.

Rookie seasons are rarely linear. They are defined by surges and interruptions, bright lights and sudden detours.

For Cooper Flagg, this is just another chapter in a year that continues to command attention.

More NBA news

MSU women's basketball rising in latest AP Poll

After two consecutive losses to top ten teams had them tumbling down the polls slightly, the Michigan State women's basketball team is back on the rise in the midst of a two-game winning streak as the regular season draws to a close. On Monday, the Spartans came in at No. 15 in the latest poll, up three spots from last week.

The Spartans were heavily buoyed in this poll by their huge, 14-point road win over No. 22 Minnesota. They also blew out Northwestern at home. The Spartans will have one more opportunity to catapult up the polls in the regular season when they host No. 13 Ohio State on Sunday.

Elsewhere in the Big Ten:

  • UCLA is still at No. 2
  • Michigan fell to No. 8 after a loss to Iowa, while Iowa is up four spots to No. 9
  • Ohio State is at No. 13 after beating USC
  • Maryland is still at No. 14
  • Minnesota actually moved up one spot despite the loss to MSU, thanks to their win over Ohio State

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan state news, notes, and opinion. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @IAmBrewster.

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: MSU women's basketball rising in latest AP Poll

Team competition vaults Arizona State swimming, diving to elite level

At the end of each Arizona State swimming and diving practice, the team doesn’t go straight back to the locker room to change and move on with its day. While still in the water or on the deck, team members will congratulate each other for strong performances. A shoutout not just to their teammates but their friends.

“Other people’s success is equally as exciting on this team than your own success,” said junior butterfly and freestyle specialist Grace Lindberg. “If not, sometimes more exciting.”

And the team has experienced plenty of success. Arizona State’s swimming and diving program is one of the best in the country. The men’s team has won three consecutive conference championships, including two in the old Pac-12 Conference and last year in its first season in the Big 12 Conference. The women’s team also won last year’s title in the Big 12.

Lindberg called the team’s dynamic special because of how close everyone is. But that collides with the other side of ASU’s identity — the one that has swimmers and divers compete against their teammates for a spot in each meet.

Lindberg said the team views in-practice competition as necessary for the team to achieve its goals. The success of the individual helps the success of the team. 

Behm calls this time of the season the easiest because they’re focusing on optimizing rest for swimmers. However, the team still faces some challenges. The NCAA restructured its schedule for some championship races, meaning they have to pick and choose who will race specific events.

The team has to send in its event groups one week before the NCAA Championship, so Behm has been testing different groups all season long.

But Behm said the team's preparation for the championship season doesn’t start with the mid-season evaluations. It doesn’t start at the beginning of the season, either. Behm said the preparation process starts when the athletes are still in high school.

“I think it starts when the kids commit,” Behm said. “Now, it’s when they’re a junior in high school, telling them it’s literally every day. Now that college sports have gotten even more competitive, it’s like you’re competing for a spot on the team and then a spot on the travel roster and all of that (every day).

“They’ve got to show up, and then it’s just raising the bar from there.”

The Big 12 championships are Feb. 24-28 with the NCAA Zone Diving Championships March 9-11. The Zone Diving Championships are five regional meets that determine which divers will compete in the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships.

The NCAA women’s Swimming Championships are March 18-21, and the men’s NCAA Championships, March 25-28.

The Arizona State men’s team won its first national title following the 2023-24 season and placed sixth at NCAAs a year ago. With a perfect 9-0 start to this season, the men have high expectations.

“We want to perform at the highest level during Big 12s, but leading up to (the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championship),” said junior butterfly specialist Ilya Kharun, who is a two-time Olympic bronze medalist. “I think it’s all just really good work all going up to the big championship season.”

The men’s perfect start includes a tri-meet win against two top-10 programs, Stanford and California, Berkeley, in late October. About a month later, the Sun Devils beat two more top-15 programs, Virginia and Tennessee, at the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association Dual Meet Challenge.

The women’s team is 4-5-1 this season and has won three meets in a row to start 2026. The Sun Devils took down Grand Canyon in early January, won the Big 12 West Championship meet and defeated Arizona in early February.

The women’s team also gained experience racing against top competition in the Dual Meet Challenge, which will prepare them for the upcoming championship season. Lindberg said she was proud of how the team performed in that meet.

“The preparation to race an unranked team, versus the preparation to go to a national championship, versus the preparation to race the No. 1 team in the country, even though the meet is going to look a little bit different, it’s the same mentality every time,” Lindberg said. “It’s about me and my teammates … and how we’re going to show up and just do what we know how to do.

“If we do that, we’re pretty confident that everything else is going to take care of itself.”

Tyler Bednar is a graduate student at Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Team competition vaults ASU swimming, diving to elite level

Arnold Palmer Invitational aims to be a kid friendly PGA Tour event

The Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard aims on going the extra mile to be kid-friendly in 2026.

From free admission to a junior golf clinic to special viewing and autograph areas for youngsters, the API is pulling out all the stops make sure people of all ages enjoy the week at Bay Hill Club & Lodge for the eighth event on the PGA Tour's schedule.

Let's start with admission. All kids 15 and younger will get in free (when accompanied by a ticketed adult) all week, including the four days of competition (March 5-8).

Jordan Spieth signs his autograph for a young fan after the second round of the 2023 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard at Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando.

On Monday, March 2, the Arnold Palmer Invitational Junior Clinic presented by VyStar Credit Union takes place. This event is open to the public, but participants do need to register through the First Tee Central Florida. In all, there will be anywhere from 100 to 150 kids and families at Bay Hill for a one-hour program featuring PGA Tour professionals, who will talk all things golf as well as instructional training. There will also be fun challenges for junior golfers to hit various shots and try different clubs. 

Kids are going to love a few of the perks created just for them: special viewing areas to watch the tournament, as well as kids-only spaces to get autographs. The Autograph Zone presented by Chick-fil-A will have the "Little Nuggets Autograph Area," an area right next to the practice putting green near the clubhouse and the first tee, where kids can get up close to the pros and get autographs from their favorite players. Out on the course, near the sixth and near the 10th green, will be several family-only spaces where little ones can get unobstructed views of the action.

For those families with small children, the Orlando Health Family Care Suites will be a hit. Located near the 10th as well as in Arnie's Army Fan Village, these areas will provide families, in particular those with nursing moms, a dedicated space that will be air-conditioned and stocked with free diapers, a changing table, a private nursing area, a phone charging station and lots of comfy seating. These family care suites open at 10 a.m. each day and stay open through the end of play each day.

Bay Hill Explorers are back. Debuting last year, this addition has proven to be popular as kids get to participate in a scavenger hunt around the golf course. The goal for the explorers is to collect stickers at 10 different locations and add them to their exclusive Bay Hill Explorers booklets.

Last but not least, there will be Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard merchandise just for kids. This youth merch will be in the Fanatics tents, one located near the 18th hole/main entrance, the other near the 1st tee/clubhouse.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Arnold Palmer Invitational: What's new for kids in 2026

Inter Academy Camp USA: the Club strengthens its presence in the United States

Inter Academy Camp USA: the Club strengthens its presence in the United States
Inter Academy Camp USA: the Club strengthens its presence in the United States

Inter strengthens its presence in the United States and announces the launch of Inter Academy Camp USA, a new and ambitious project dedicated to promoting the Inter brand and its values across the Atlantic.

Following the opening of Inter Academy New England, Rockers (California), and Strikers (Virginia), Inter is expanding its footprint in the United States with Inter Academy Camp USA, a programme aimed at bringing the Nerazzurri Youth Sector's technical, educational, and value-based methodology across the country. Activities will kick off in June 2026 and will be organised in partnership with IM Elite Soccer Camps Corp.

In its first year, eight cities will be involved: San Diego, Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, Washington D.C., New York, Fort Lee (New Jersey), and Miami. The Club was present in some of these during last summer's FIFA Club World Cup, confirming its commitment to building and consolidating its US fanbase.

The project will roll out gradually and systematically: in its second year, activities will expand to twelve cities, and by the third year, they will reach sixteen, creating a wider presence across the country and deeper engagement with local communities.

Each camp stop will last five days, from Monday to Friday, and will be coordinated by the official Inter Academy staff, with three Club coaches assigned to each location. Young participants will enjoy a full educational experience, training on the pitch according to the technical and methodological principles of the Nerazzurri Youth Sector and embracing the values that have always defined Inter: passion, inclusion, commitment, and a sense of belonging.

The initiative is part of Inter's ongoing growth in the United States, where, in recent years, the Club has been active in numerous sporting and engagement activities, including Academy programmes, fan events, and initiatives linked to international competitions.

A Pair of Vikings Make the Cut as NFL Free Agency Awaits

A Pair of Vikings Make the Cut as NFL Free Agency Awaits
Jeffrey Becker

NFL free agency is soon to arrive, down to weeks rather than months. The chatter around football is thus offering up plenty of top free agents lists.

A noteworthy example emerged from Gregg Rosenthal of the NFL website. A total of 101 players get dropped down into the mix, with a pair of Vikings getting looped into the discussion. At No. 70 is receiver Jalen Nailor and at No. 95 is linebacker Eric Wilson.

Pair of Vikings Listed on NFL’s Top 101 FAs

Consider a central truth that every team needs to remember: the best contracts pay for future performance, not past performance.

In Nailor, the league will get to consider someone who has often demonstrated high-end talent and work ethic but hasn’t ever cleared 5oo yards in a single season. A team may nevertheless see someone who is about to explode if the right opportunity arises. Likewise, Wilson is someone who offers a ton of ability, but one wonders if he can replicate — much less surpass — what he did last season.

Vikings defenders agains the new York Giants in 2025
Dec 21, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Jalen Redmond (61) reacts with linebacker Eric Wilson (55) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Consider the accompanying blurb for Jalen Nailor.

From Rosenthal: “Nailor was stuck behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison and didn’t have a quarterback who could throw to the middle of the field in his contract year. He has fans as a speedy slot receiver.”

Bringing Jefferson and Addison into the mix makes sense, but note that there’s a two-way street that’s coming into play. Yes, the WR1 and WR2 in Minnesota stole targets, but they also stole defensive backs’ attention. Nailor therefore got easier looks than if he had been the top option.

Plus, Nailor is more than a slot a receiver even if that ends up being his primary home in a new spot. Last season, Nailor has 382 snaps in the slot, 268 snaps out wide, 2 snaps inline, and 1 in the backfield (PFF). Some of those AFC heavyweights like Kansas City, Baltimore, and Buffalo make sense.

Whoever signs Jalen Nailor may end up getting a pass catcher who can win deep, pile up around 750 yards, and score 10+ touchdowns.

Vikings players Justin Jefferson, Jalen Nailor, and J.J. McCarthy in 2025 at Dallas in 2025
Dec 14, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor (1) celebrates after a touchdown catch with wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) and quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images.

Meanwhile, Eric Wilson snags a brief analysis. The Rosenthal assessment: “Wilson’s blitzing breakout season in Brian Flores’ Vikings defense was such a blast to watch that it would’ve felt wrong leaving him off this list.”

First, it wasn’t just blitzing as an off-ball linebacker. Wilson lined up as an edge rusher and often performed quite well despite being smaller.

No doubt, though, Rosenthal is correct that the explosion from Mr. Wilson was fun. What’s fascinating is whether he’ll be able to offer a repeat performance. If so, does he get the chance to do so in the Twin Cities?

The Vikings are working with a very thin linebacker spot. LB1 Blake Cashman is still around, but he’s entering the final year of his contract, has battled some injury, and is going to be 30 in May.

Does it make sense to drop medium money into Wilson, a 31-year-old linebacker coming off a career-best season? Only if the contract pays for future play and not what was a perfect storm last year. Retaining Brian Flores makes a new deal for the veteran more likely.

Sep 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson (55) celebrates after a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

At the very top of the free agent list is QB Malik Willis. Ending up in Minnesota would mean competing for the top job alongside J.J. McCarthy. Plenty of speculation that Willis will leave Wisconsin behind for Minnesota.

The Vikings are in a ton of cap debt, but there are various ways that money can get cleared out to make the finances workable.


PREVIEW | Real Madrid vs Benfica - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | Real Madrid vs Benfica - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | Real Madrid vs Benfica - team news, lineups, predictions

Real Madrid and Benfica clash this Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu of the UEFA Champions League.

Last time out, Real Madrid slipped to a 2-1 defeat against Osasuna (La Liga 2025/26). In their last match, Benfica prevailed 3-0 against AFS (Primeira Liga 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Real Madrid winning 1-0.

Unavailable

Real Madrid

  • Dean Huijsen - Muscle Injury
  • Jude Bellingham - Hamstring Injury
  • Rodrygo -
  • Éder Militão - Muscle Injury

Benfica

  • Nuno Félix - Rotura de ligamentos do joelho
  • Gianluca Prestianni - Suspended
  • João Veloso - Shoulder Injury

Last starting XIs

Real Madrid ( vs Osasuna 2026-02-21): Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Raúl Asencio, David Alaba, Álvaro Carreras, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Arda Güler, Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior

Benfica ( vs AFS 2026-02-21): Anatoliy Trubin, Alexander Bah, Nicolás Otamendi, António Silva, José Neto, Richard Ríos, Enzo Barrenechea, Sidny Cabral, Rafa Silva, Andreas Schjelderup, Vangelis Pavlidis

Tottenham Hotspur Are In Talks To Sign This Talented Forward: Good Choice For Tudor?

Tottenham Hotspur Are In Talks To Sign This Talented Forward: Good Choice For Tudor?
Tottenham Hotspur Are In Talks To Sign This Talented Forward: Good Choice For Tudor?

In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey revealed that Tottenham Hotspur are in talks to sign Al-Hilal forward Darwin Nunez. It has been mentioned that Spurs are facing competition in the form of Newcastle United in the race to land the Uruguay international.

Nunez’s Impressive Form In Saudi Football

Nunez has enjoyed a good run of form at the Saudi club as he has put in a string of productive displays for them in the final third. The Uruguayan talent has scored nine times and picked up five assists in 24 appearances for Al-Hilal this season across multiple competitions.

The 26-year-old is currently among the best strikers in the Saudi Pro League. Furthermore, he has got some previous experience in the Premier League from his time at Liverpool. Thus, it is no surprise that Spurs want to land him next summer.

His current contract at the Saudi club will run out in the summer of 2028, which could make it difficult for the North London club to sign him on a cut-price deal this off-season.

Tottenham Hotspur

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – SEPTEMBER 13: Darwin Nunez of Team Al-Hilal FC celebrates scoring their first goal during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Hilal and Al Qadsiah at Kingdom Arena on September 13, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)

Is Nunez A Good Choice For Tottenham Hotspur Boss Igor Tudor?

Nunez is proficient at finding a yard of space for himself to get some strikes in at goal. He has got the vision to create a few promising chances in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet.

Standing at 1.87m, the Uruguay international can use his strong 1.87m frame to dominate the opposition defenders in the air. As mentioned earlier, Nunez is already quite familiar with the Premier League and won’t take much time to settle into life at Tottenham.

Nunez would inject more pace and goals into Spurs head coach Igor Tudor’s frontline. He is more than capable of earning a regular first-team spot at the North London club in the coming seasons.

At 26, Nunez has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for Tottenham to pursue later this summer. He might even help the North London giants challenge for a major trophy in the future. With all things considered, Tudor would be wise to get him on board at the end of this season.

HS FOOTBALL: LFC standouts selected to PSFCA East Roster for Small-School all-star game

Four Lackawanna Football Conference and Times-Tribune All-Region players were selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches’ Association Small-School (Class 1A-Class 3A) East-West all-star game.

Lakeland quarterback David Naniewicz and teammate Weston Loomis, a defensive lineman, Lackawanna Trail linebacker Tyler Jervis, and Scranton Prep defensive back Will McPartland are part of the East Roster that was announced Monday morning.

Former Western Wayne head coach Shane Grodack is an assistant coach for the game that is scheduled for May 17 at noon at Cumberland Valley High School.

Wyoming Area offensive lineman Max Getzie, Berwick defensive lineman JJ Leonard, and Hanover Area coach Eric Richardson are also part of the East participants.

The roster for the Big School (Class 4A-Class 6A) will be announced on Tuesday.

Naniewicz, who is headed to Lackawanna College, and Loomis, who committed to the University of Rochester, led Lakeland to the LFC Division II and District 2 Class 2A championship this past season.

Both were three-year starters for the Chiefs, who had an 11-2 overall record.

Naniewicz, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound dual threat, was the LFC Division II Coaches’ Offensive Player of the Year. He completed 125 of 198 passes with six interceptions. He threw for 1,743 yards and 17 touchdowns. He also led the team with 938 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. He finished his career with 3,758 yards passing and 35 touchdowns and had 1,464 yards rushing with 24 touchdowns.

Loomis, a 6-1, 260-pound two-way LFC Division II Coaches’ all-star lineman, had 47 total tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery.

Jervis helped Lackawanna Trail win the LFC Division III and District 2 Class 1A championships. The Lions finished 12-2 overall. Jervis, a 5-10, 160-pound outside linebacker, led the Lions with 87 and had seven tackles for loss. He had five sacks, four interceptions, and three fumble recoveries and returned two interceptions and two fumbles for touchdowns this season.

McPartland, a 6-foot-1, 195-pound multi-talented athlete, returned from a torn ACL suffered in the state playoffs during his junior season and led the Cavaliers to the District 2 Class 3A championship.

Grodack resigned as the head coach at Western Wayne following last season. He had a three-year record of 20-14, which included the program’s first 10-win season in 2024.

TGL gives golfers first opportunity to represent their home cities

America’s most popular sports are almost always played by athletes who represent the nation’s biggest or most influential cities. Golf is the exception.

Golf is almost always played individually. Even when team events do exist, like the Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup and a select few events on the PGA Tour schedule, they still don’t assign players to teams by city like most other major sports.

TGL, a new golf league presented by TMRW Sports, is changing that.

This new venture, with its litany of technological innovations, also provides golfers a previously impossible opportunity: to play their sport at the professional level for their home city.

“It means the world to me,” said Sahith Theegala, a PGA Tour pro and Southern California native who plays in TGL for the Los Angeles Golf Club. “All my family is still in L.A. and it’s still home for me.”

TGL is an indoor league and relies on a 64-foot wide simulator screen for most shots and a rotating green (and bunker) complex for short game play.

The league features six teams representing cities across the U.S. A seventh team, the Motor City Golf Club of Detroit, will be the league’s first expansion team when it reaches its third season.

Theegala, who played at Pepperdine University, was so attached to L.A. that three days after the death of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant in a helicopter crash in January 2020, the then-senior wore his Bryant jersey over his golf shirt as he putted out for his fourth NCAA tournament victory.

Sahith Theegala waits near the 6th green during the second round at the 2026 WM Phoenix Open on Feb. 6.

Six years later, Theegala’s L.A. ties still run deep.

“I was just honored that they even chose me for the (L.A. Golf Club) team,” Theegala said, “and to play for my hometown is pretty epic.”

Another of the original six teams, the Boston Common Golf Ballfrogs, are represented by two New England natives, including Michael Thorbjornsen, raised in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

“Just being affiliated with an entity or a team now that is stationed in Boston or in Massachusetts is pretty cool,” Thorbjornsen said.

Thorbjornsen, just 24 years old and only recently added to the Ballfrogs’ roster as a designated alternate, proved pivotal in his team’s first victories in the young league.

Thorbjornsen arrived at TGL's home base, the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, sporting a Drake Maye jersey. Maye, the quarterback for the New England Patriots, was in the midst of building a case for MVP and leading his team to the playoffs at the time.

“There’s definitely a sense of pride in being a part of that team,” Thorbjornsen said. “A lot of people have a lot of pride in where they’re from and where they grew up, so having another team to back and have some passion for is great for everyone.”

Will Neary is a graduate student at Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: TGL gives golfers first opportunity to represent their home cities

Have you ever met a Raiders player or coach in real life? Tell us about it!

Jan 4, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; The Las Vegas Raiders shield logo at midfield at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

We’re beyond the Super Bowl but not quite to the start of the new league year so it’s a somewhat quiet time in the NFL. Let’s pass the time by talking about the Raiders. 

Where’s the most random place you’ve run into a Raiders player or coach, and who was it?

I’ll start. While I’ve met countless Raiders over my the course of my career, I’ll harken back to my first encounter. I was about 10 and I was in the Boy Scouts and because I was a big fan, I was selected to sit with Raiders offensive lineman George Buehler and help him during an autograph session at a big event at Stanford. It was a lifetime memory and George was so cool, I’ve become a lifetime fan. Now, let us know about your Raiders’ experiences.

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Florida Gators gear up across MLB as Spring Training begins

As spring training unfolds for Major League Baseball, a strong party of former Florida Gators baseball stars stand ready to make their mark in the 2026 season. Florida's pipeline to the pros is deep with position players and pitchers scattered across Opening Day rosters and big-league camp invites.

One of the highest profiles is Wyatt Langford, the Texas Rangers outfielder and former fourth-overall pick, coming off a breakout 38-home-run season and poised for another big year. Also in big-league camp is veteran outfielder Harrison Bader, whose 2025 performance (.277, 17 HR) helps anchor the Philadelphia Phillies.

Beyond the stars, several Gators are in camp as non-roster invitees or preparing for minor-league duty with big league dreams. Pitchers like Brandon Sproat and Phillip Abner strengthen Florida's professional footprint. Veterans like Jonathan India and A.J. Puk add seasoned depth to their respective club camps as they aim to secure roles for 2026.

Together, these alumni reflect the Gators' enduring impact on the professional ranks. From elite young hitters to experienced arms, Florida's MLB representation sets the stage for a continued legacy.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Former Florida standouts ready for 2026 MLB season

🔴 Solet limps off in Bologna: muscle blow for Udinese 🚑

🔴 Solet limps off in Bologna: muscle blow for Udinese 🚑

The Monday Night of the 26th round of Serie A sees Vincenzo Italiano's Bologna hosting Kosta Runjaic's Udinese at the Dall’Ara.

Watch the entire Serie BKT live on OneFootball for only €9.99 per month. Click here to purchase the LaB Channel Monthly Pass without automatic renewal.

The Rossoblù come with enthusiasm after a 1-0 victory over Brann in the first leg of the Europa League playoffs and an away win of 2-1 against Torino. They are now looking to return to a home victory, which has been missing since December 4th.

Udinese, on the other hand, comes from a 2-1 home defeat against Sassuolo and still has to do without Davis.


🔴 Article constantly updated, for the live text click on the match card above


🚑 Solet stops again: INJURY and substitution!

MINUTE 10 - Bad news for Udinese, as they lose Solet due to a muscle strain in the adductor.

The defender initially stays on the ground and requests to be substituted, but then tries to push through before eventually giving up. Bertola comes in to replace him.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.

10 Most Memorable Things We Witnessed at 2026 Winter Games

Megan Keller joins her fellow Team USA athletes in the parade during the Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony at Verona Olympic Arena on Feb. 22, 2026 in Italy. Credit - Sarah Stier—Getty Images

On the eve of the opening ceremonies of the Milano Cortina Olympics, one of those irresistibly viral stories started percolating around the internet.

In a press conference, a journalist asked an official from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) about a report in a German tabloid that ski jumpers were injecting hyaluronic acid into their penises in order to enlarge their private areas, which would presumably give them an aerodynamic advantage in the sport. A bemused official promised to look into it.

Uh oh.

This was one of those stories that could have consumed the global media that descended into Milan and the Italian Alps for the duration of these Games. Winter sports experts would be called upon to play amateur urologists. 

Thankfully, that didn’t happen. Perhaps weeks, months, or years from now, a 2026 Olympic ski jumper from Norway will be busted for crotch violations. But the main storylines to emerge from that winter sports empire were its lead in the gold and overall medal counts, and the awe-inspiring athletic machinery that is cross-country skier Johannes Høsflot Klaebo, winner of six golds at these Olympics—a new winter record for a single Games.

But we can’t forget the Norwegian biathlete who broadcast his infidelity to the globe. The Olympics will always stage absurdist theater. A Canadian curler cursed. Ice dancing judges did their cringey judging. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) pulled the credentials of a Ukrainian skeleton racer who insisted on honoring slain athletes on his helmet. The display violated rules against in-competition political protest, determined the IOC, sparking much debate.

Not a scandalous one. The Milano Cortina Olympics closed out unscathed from an unmitigated disastrous event (think: Ryan Lochte). Though let’s not be blinded to the Olympic challenges ahead: the IOC seems eager to let Russia back into the Games, even though the aggression against Ukraine is ongoing and, according to a whistleblower who spoke to the New York Times, the head of its anti-doping agency reportedly participated in a doping scheme. The official, Veronika Loginova, dismissed the claim as “fantasy.” 

The Games always offer discomfort. And moments of joy—in its purest form—as well as pain and surprise. While Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic comeback ended with a frightening crash in Cortina d’Ampezzo, overall, Team USA broke its winter gold medal record, set on home soil at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games.

Here are 10 Milano Cortina memories that will forever stand out to TIME’s veteran Olympic correspondents.

The fallible quad god

Skating. Where to start? Coming to Milan, I was prepared for a busy and eventful Olympics. The U.S., after all, had world champions in three of the four events—in men, women, and ice dance. With that many reigning champions, Team USA was also expected to win gold in the team event. Seemed like a no-brainer.

So I was prepared to write gold medal stories and weave in themes of the U.S.’ strength in skating in the absence of the Russian teams, who have historically produced Olympic champions in all four disciplines. But things, as everyone knows by now, didn’t quite go as planned.

While the U.S. won gold in the team event, thanks to a clutch performance by “Quad God” Ilia Malinin, even Malinin seemed off his game in Italy. Ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates finished behind the French team of Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron after controversial judging despite pretty clear mistakes by the French. And then Malinin, among the most consistent skaters in recent years, had the entire arena gasping when he popped and fell on jumps.

One thing that struck me after that event was Malinin’s maturity, at 21, in addressing what had happened. Before he left the kiss and cry, he congratulated the gold medalist, Mikhail Shaidorov from Kazakhstan, who secured the first gold in figure skating for his country. Probably the last thing Malinin wanted to do was face the media with our obvious and, in the moment, painful questions when his emotions were still raw. But he was frank and insightful, admitting that the pressure of being at his first Olympics might have finally gotten to him, revealing that as he took his starting position, the negative thoughts started flooding in.

Malinin didn’t want that performance to be his last memory of his first Olympics, so he was fortunate to be invited to skate at the exhibition gala, to erase, in some ways, the program that didn’t remotely reflect the extent of his skills and talent. It was a deeply emotional and raw program that he said was meant to remind the world about how harmful the pressures created by social media and public expectations can be. — Alice Park

Silver linings

A few Olympians who were strong contenders for gold instead picked up silvers and relished their accomplishment. For example, Eileen Gu, who represents China, and Chloe Kim of the U.S. were all smiles after picking up silvers in their competitions (for Gu, slopestyle and Big Air freeskiing; for Kim, halfpipe snowboarding). A reporter asked Gu—who later won gold in the halfpipe event on the last day of competition—if her achievement at these Olympics felt more like two golds lost or two silvers gained. Gu laughed at the inquiry.

“I'm the most decorated female freeskier in history,” Gu said. “I think that's an answer in and of itself. How do I say this? Winning a medal at the Olympics is a life-changing experience for every athlete. Doing it five times is exponentially harder, because every medal is equally hard for me, but everybody else's expectations rise, right? And so the two medals lost situation, to be quite frank with you, I think it's kind of a ridiculous perspective to take.”

The Canadian women’s hockey athletes might not agree. After they came within minutes of triumphing over the rival U.S. in a second straight gold medal game—before a Hilary Knight goal tied it, and a filthy Megan Keller move ended it in sudden death overtime—the Canadian players filed off the ice dejected, in tears, looking grief-stricken. Perhaps in team sports, the promise of achieving something so spectacular as a collective builds up so much anticipated joy that, when you fall short, any medal seems worthless. Those Canadian faces offered a reminder that, for some, second-place just hits different. — Sean Gregory

Capturing gold

Having spent the last two weeks at the Milano Ice Skating Arena, all of my memorable moments involve the rink in some way. I got a little obsessed with watching Jordan Cowan, from On Ice Perspectives, the company he created after leaving competitive figure skating, document the sport on film. Cowan developed a special camera rig that he carries onto the ice and that moves smoothly to capture quick turns and perspectives that bring viewers as close to skating next to the athletes as possible. Cowan started his company by producing videos while skating with skaters during their programs—just while they trained or did exhibitions. But for the first time at the Olympics, he recorded the athletes as they were introduced and as they left the ice following their programs. During the exhibition gala, he skated onto the ice during their programs to capture, close-up, moments from their programs. Wearing a custom-made white suit to blend into his frozen environment, he introduced a new, more intimate perspective for audiences that will hopefully make skating—and skaters—even more relatable. (It was Cowan’s camera that captured U.S. gold medalist Alysa Liu’s exuberant expletive as she skated off the ice following her program.) Cowan’s biggest challenge? Making sure he didn’t skate into the plush toys that fans threw onto the ice for the skaters. And did I mention he films while skating backward? — A.P

Paper train

Early one Sunday afternoon, en route to covering the women’s 500-m speedskating event, I sat on a Milan metro, scrolling on my cell phone to keep track of Olympic happenings. Most people on the train were looking at screens. At one station, an elderly Italian couple stepped onto the train. The man took an empty seat next to me; the woman sat across from us. I made a motion towards her with my hands, indicating I was more than happy to switch seats, so they could be next to each other. She politely shook her head no; she was fine where she was. I said something along the lines of, “Ah, you need a break from him, don’t you?” She seemingly spoke no English and had no idea what I was talking about.

They both opened up newspapers and started reading them. Seeing two newspapers being read by Italian senior citizens, in a sea of electronic devices, made me all warm and happy. It was time for me to transfer: I waved goodbye to the woman as I stepped by her onto the platform. I looked back—she got up to join her husband. But she dropped her paper on the floor, while going to look at her phone. — S.G.

Family affair

I didn’t even see it happen. I had my phone camera focused on Lindsey Vonn’s family—sisters Karin and Laura, and father Alan Kildow—as Vonn started her sprint down the Cortina d’Ampezzo mountain on Feb. 8 in the women’s Olympic downhill competition. My goal was to capture their reaction, in the second row of the spectator section, if Vonn could somehow return from an ACL rupture she suffered a little more than week prior, and take the downhill lead away from American teammate Breezy Johnson. All at 41-years-old. And perhaps she’d hold on and win gold. What a story that would be. 

So while I didn’t see Vonn’s ski pole hit a gate, and her go careening down the mountain at full speed, the looks of horror on her family’s faces, and the ensuing hush over the crowd as medics rushed to Vonn’s attention, said it all. I put my phone in my pocket. Dance music kept blaring over the loudspeaker, as Vonn’s family members teared up with anxiety. I found those thump-thump tunes so inappropriate for this somber moment. Later, I was told that the organizers kept it playing so spectators didn’t have to hear Vonn screaming in pain on the mountain. 

Read More: Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic Crash, Through The Eyes Of Her Family

Fans waved to Vonn as she was helicoptered off the slope and taken to a local hospital. Thankfully, her life wasn’t in danger. But after at least four surgeries on a broken leg in Italy, and another back home in the U.S., Vonn has a long recovery ahead of her. “No regrets,” Vonn wrote about her comeback a few days later on social media. Tough day for an unquestionably tough—and unforgettable—athlete. — S.G.

Voluntary kindness

Because skating events occurred at night in Milan, they weren’t over until close to midnight. By the time I was wrapped up and ready to return to the hotel, it was usually close to 1:30 or 2 a.m. I will be forever grateful for the two volunteers who one night, upon seeing me climb the rickety metal stairs to the metro station looking either exhausted or completely pitiful, asked, “Tutto bene?” They then quietly sat in the same empty train car with me so I wouldn’t feel alone, and gave me a nod when they got off a few stops before me. Grazie mille, as always, to the Olympic volunteers. — A.P.

Health comes first

As a health writer, I always enjoy when I’m able to combine my day job with the Olympics. It doesn’t happen often, but during the Tokyo and Beijing Games, which occurred during the COVID pandemic, it came in handy. So at this Olympics, I visited the medical clinic that the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee set up in the Olympic Village to help athletes with any health needs they might have. They also had a team in the mountains, who were instrumental in coordinating the care for Vonn when she crashed during her run. In the Village, the doctors told me their biggest request was for tests for flu, colds, RSV, and COVID. The clinic had a rapid test that could provide quick results and help athletes get the right treatment to keep them on their training and competitions schedules as much as possible. The clinic also provides physical therapy, massage, and mental health services for anyone who needs them. It was a crowded place after competitions and training sessions. — A.P.

Saved by a pasta

Thank heavens for pizzoccheri, the buckwheat pasta dish that’s a staple of Valtellina valley of northern Italy, where snowboarding, freestyle skiing, men’s alpine, and the new Olympic sport of ski mountaineering was staged at these Games. Olympic organizers tend to offer media members terrible food options at the venues in which they’re working. That may sound like a complaint. But it’s fact. I’m still trying to expunge from my palette the microwavable cheesy lasagna thingy I had to eat at the hockey area, in order to fuel up for a night with pucks.

So when a colleague introduced me to pizzoccheri, served with potatoes and cabbage, in Bormio, it was a game-changer. Anything you can stuff in your gullet in the afternoon, by the piles, so you don’t starve while waiting for a bus in the snow after Big Air after midnight, counts as an Olympic treasure. Pizzocheeri is comfort. Pizzoccheri is gold. — S.G.

Orange crush

The last time I covered speedskating in depth at a Winter Olympics was at the first one I was assigned to as a reporter: the Torino Games, two decades ago. I don’t remember the sport being that much fun. Two skaters, racing against the clock around a long oval, in an antiseptic urban facility, bored me. Two American stars, Shani Davis and Chad Hedrick, were locked in a prolonged spat over something regarding teamwork. It all seemed so tiresome. 

Fast forward to 2026: I’ve totally changed my tune. The Milan subway rides to the speedskating venue, with the orange-clad Dutch speedskating fans, helped: they brought delightful energy to the proceedings. “My hands are sweaty,” one guy dressed in orange told me, anticipating the showdown between American Jordan Stolz and Jenning de Boo of the Netherlands in the 500-m, on Feb. 14. “But no matter what, we celebrate.” 

Stolz got the best of de Boo that day, as he had three days prior, in the 1000-m. And the time-trial nature of speedskating, I found, added to the drama. It was easy to tell, for example, that Stolz was faster than de Boo as they skated in a pair. But was he faster than the rest of the field? As each skater crossed the finish, all eyes darted to the scoreboard, where times and placement were revealed. For a nanosecond, there’s mystery. Brief suspense is suspense nonetheless. 

On Saturday, the IOC announced that speedskating won’t be held in host country France in 2030. Organizers are loath to build new venues for short-term use, so they’ll put the sport in either Italy or the Netherlands. If I’m assigned the 2030 Games—bosses, let’s run it back please!—I doubt I’d stray far from the home country, just to cover one sport. But I’ll miss the group glances at the clock. And of course, the Dutch. — S.G.

Closing time

After Paris set the trend by moving the Opening Ceremony from a stadium to the Seine, there seems to be a new ultimatum of finding creative locales for the bookend Opening and Closing Ceremonies. The Italian Olympic Committee opted to close out the Milano Cortina Olympics in Verona, about an hour’s train ride from Milan. No cookie-cutter modern stadium would do. How about one that was built around 30 AD?

Renamed the Verona Olympic Arena, the venue has a long history of hosting sporting events, beginning with gladiator battles, as well as cultural extravaganzas like concerts. It’s been restored in part over the years but maintains much of its ancient roots. Passing through the stone arches, climbing up the deep stone steps and imagining the spectators and entertainers from centuries ago making the same journey was a reminder that then or now, the tradition of gathering to celebrate, and to put aside feudal, political or personal differences, is a unifying and still-needed practice that will always stand the test of time.

One of the themes of the Closing Ceremony was an homage to opera and the arts, both of which have a rich tradition in not only Verona, but in Italy. It celebrated the power of music to connect through common human experiences of love, compassion, joy, and heartbreak. It was the perfect place, and the perfect message with which to close out the Milano Cortina Olympics of 2026. — A.P.

Write to Sean Gregory at sean.gregory@time.com.

Draft Wire tabs Auburn's Connor Lew as top center ahead of NFL Combine

Connor Lew ranked the top center prospect in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft before the start of the NFL Scouting Combine, according to Draft Wire of USA Today.

A total of four centers were ranked in their rankings, with Lew coming in at No. 1, Sam Hecht (Kansas State) at No. 2, Matt Gublin (Michigan State) at No. ,3 and Jake Slaughter (Florida) at No. 4.

The Tigers recruited Lew out of Kennesaw Mountain in Acworth, Georgia, as a four-star recruit. He spent three seasons at Auburn and took over as the starting center his freshman year.

This previous season, Lew suffered a torn ACL in the Tigers' loss to Missouri in October. He decided to forego his senior season and enter the NFL Draft, where he has been seen as a top talent at his position across the board.

Lew has shown his ability to be an elite pass protector, giving up one sack and nine pressures in 442 blocking snaps as a sophomore. His pure talent at center could land him hearing his name day of the NFL Draft. Lew will join five other Tigers at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, beginning Thursday.

Contact/Follow us @TheAuburnWire on  X (Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Auburn news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Jac on Twitter@Jac_Myrick

This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Auburn football Connor Lew ranked as top center in NFL Draft class

NCAA Final Four Odds and Betting Lines: Wolverines & Blue Devils Are Locked In

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The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is just around the corner, and with Selection Sunday taking place in less than a month, all eyes are on the road to the Final Four.

Arizona and Michigan top the March Madness odds, with both teams looking to punch their tickets to Indianapolis.

NCAA men's Final Four odds

Last Updated: February 23, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. ET.

Teambet365
Michigan Michigan Wolverines-150
Duke Duke Blue Devils-115
Arizona Arizona Wildcats-105
Houston Houston Cougars+150
Florida Florida Gators+225
Illinois Illinois Fighting Illini+225
Iowa State Iowa State Cyclones+275
UConn UConn Huskies+375
Purdue Purdue Boilermakers+550
Kansas Kansas Jayhawks+600

Michigan Michigan Wolverines (-150)

Of Michigan’s 25 wins this season, 21 have come by double digits.

6-foot-9 phenom Yaxel Lendeborg is doing the heavy lifting for the Wolverines, as the power forward is averaging 14.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game for the Maize & Blue.

Duke Duke Blue Devils (-115)

The Blue Devils reached the Final Four under Jon Scheyer last year and will look to make another run, buoyed by the nation’s second-best defensive rating.

Duke is 9-1 over its last 10 games and is led by freshman point guard Cameron Boozer, who is expected to be a top-five draft pick this summer.

Arizona Arizona Wildcats (-105)

Arizona last reached the Final Four back in 2001.

Led by five-star forward Koa Peat, the Wildcats boast a Top-15 defensive rating and field goal percentage, with their only slip-ups being a road loss to No. 9 Kansas and an overtime defeat at the hands of No. 16 Texas Tech.

Houston Houston Cougars (+150)

Although Houston hasn’t reached the summit, the Cougars have proven to be a reliable bet for the Final Four each season.

Kelvin Sampson's program has reached the Final Four twice in the past five years and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen in all five tournament appearances.

Programs with the most Final Four appearances

ProgramFinal Four appearances
Warriors North Carolina21
Warriors UCLA19
Browns Duke18
Warriors Kentucky17
Warriors Kansas16
Warriors Ohio State11
Warriors Michigan State10
Warriors Louisville10
Suns Michigan8
Warriors Indiana8

March Madness by the numbers

FactStat
Most March Madness appearances without a championship30 (Purdue Boilermakers)
Odds of a No. 16 seed pulling off an upset1 in 150
Odds of a perfect March Madness bracket 1 in 9.2 quintillion
Most Final Four appearances21 (North Carolina)
Most March Madness championships by a coach10 (John Wooden)
Most March Madness career wins by a coach97 (Mike Krzyzewski)
Most career points scored during March Madness407 (Christian Laettner, Duke)
Most points scored in a March Madness game61 (Austin Carr, Notre Dame)

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.

Highest Premier League wages: Biggest EPL salaries, earners as Haaland leads highest paid players

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Highest Premier League wages: Biggest EPL salaries, earners as Haaland leads highest paid players originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

As the richest domestic football league in the world, the Premier League has the financial might to make its top athletes wealthy beyond their dreams.

Giants like Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are able to entice world-class players to join their squads, with the capability to target any football star around the globe.

Yet clubs in England are also forced to operate within the established financial rules, keeping them from muscling others out of the way and maintaining some competitive balance, while also keeping within their financial means.

The Sporting News explains which players are paid the highest wages, and what clubs are reaching furthest into their coffers to pay its squad.

MORE:Highest paid Arsenal players as Bukayo Saka tops list with new deal

Highest Premier League wages by player

The highest earner in the Premier League is Erling Haaland of Manchester City. The 25-year-old Norwegian has won multiple Golden Boot awards since joining the English club, and earns £525,000 per week, over £100,000 more than any other player.

Having signed a new contract with Arsenal, Bukayo Saka does not quite crack the list. The BBC reports that Saka's wage figure will see him paid "in excess of £300,000 per week," which at first glance would see him rank amongst the top 10 in the league.

However, that figure, according to both Capology and Spotrac, is only so high when including both his base wages and signing bonus, the latter of which is abnormally high.

Purely on base wages, Saka is the seventh-highest earner at Arsenal on his new contract on £195,000 per week, with Kai Havertz being the highest at the club with £280,000. On top of that, Saka earns an additional £5.2 million per year in bonuses, over £1.5 million more than anyone else on Arsenal.

Information via Capology, up to date as of February 23, 2026. Figures do not include signing bonuses or potential add-on incentives.

RankPlayerClubYearly salaryWeekly salaryContract signedContract until
1.Erling HaalandMan City£27.3m [$37.4m]£525,000 [$718,400]January, 2025July, 2034
2.Mohamed SalahLiverpool£20.8m [$28.5m]£400,000 [$547,300]April, 2025July, 2027
T-3.CasemiroMan United£18.2m [$24.9m]£350,000 [$478,900]August, 2022July, 2026
T-3.Virgil van DijkLiverpool£18.2m [$24.9m]£350,000 [$478,900]April, 2025July, 2027
T-5.Bernardo SilvaMan City£15.6m [$21.3m]£300,000 [$410,500]August, 2023July, 2026
T-5.Bruno FernandesMan United£15.6m [$21.3m]£300,000 [$410,500]August, 2024July, 2027
7.Omar MarmoushMan City£15.3m [$21m]£295,000 [$403,600]January, 2025July, 2029
T-8.Kai HavertzArsenal£14.6m [$19.9m]£280,000 [$383,100]July, 2023July, 2028
T-8.Alexander IsakLiverpool£14.6m [$19.9m]£280,000 [$383,100]September, 2025July, 2031
10.Gabriel JesusArsenal£13.8m [$18.9m]£265,000 [$362,600]July, 2022July, 2027

Highest Premier League wages by team

The Premier League club with the highest wage bill is Manchester City, who are far and away the highest wage spenders of any team in England.

Man City are on the hook to pay out over a million per week more than any other club, with Arsenal second on the list and Liverpool are third. Man United are fourth on the list, with Chelsea fifth, as the giants of England all at the top of the rankings.

Surprises in the top 10 include Aston Villa at sixth, and Fulham in 10th, while Nottingham Forest are fighting a relegation battle with the ninth-highest wages in the league. The lowest wage bill belongs to Brentford who have leveraged a strong recruitment department to secure results despite this low expenditure, while recent high-earning departures have helped as well.

Information via Capology, up to date as of February 17, 2026. Figures do not include signing bonuses or potential add-on incentives.

RankClubAnnual Wage BillWeekly Wage Bill
1.Man City£234m [$316.6m]£4.50m [$6.09m]
2.Arsenal£185.7m [$251.2m]£3.57m [$4.83m]
3.Liverpool£173.5m [$234.7m]£3.34m [$4.5m]
4.Man United£162.3m [$219.6m]£3.12m [$4.21m]
5.Chelsea£147.1m [$199m]£2.83m [$3.82m]
6.Aston Villa£143.4m [$194m]£2.76m [$3.72m]
7.Tottenham£136.8m [$185.1m]£2.63m [$3.55m]
8.Newcastle£116.8m [$158m]£2.25m [$3.03m]
9.Nottingham Forest£88.3m [$119.5m]£1.70m [$2.29m]
10.Fulham£77.0m [$105.5m]£1.48m [$2m]
11.Crystal Palace£76.4m [$103.4m]£1.47m [$1.98m]
12.Everton£75.8m [$102.5m]£1.46m [$1.97m]
13.West Ham£74.3m [$100.5m]£1.43m [$1.93m]
14.Wolves£69.6m [$94.1m]£1.34m [$1.81m]
15.Brighton£68.9m [$93.1m]£1.32m [$1.79m]
16.Sunderland£62.7m [$84.8m]£1.21m [$1.63m]
17.Bournemouth£62.1m [$84m]£1.19m [$1.61m]
18.Leeds£57.3m [$77.5m]£1.10m [$1.49m]
19.Burnley£55.6m [$75.2m]£1.07m [$1.44m]
20.Brentford£55.3m [$74.8m]£1.06m [$1.43m]

U.S. women’s hockey team will not attend State of the Union after Trump invitation

U.S. women’s hockey team will not attend State of the Union after Trump invitationThe United States women’s hockey team, which won gold at the Olympics in Milan last week, will not attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday night, according to a statement.

The statement, issued by USA Hockey, read: “We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement. Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”

The U.S. men’s team, which also won gold in Milan, also received an invitation to the speech from Trump — and to a White House event on Wednesday — but it’s not clear whether players will attend.

Trump, on a call Sunday to a raucous locker-room celebration by the U.S. men — which included FBI director Kash Patel — invited that team to both the State of the Union and the White House. The U.S. men had just won gold with 2-1 overtime win over Canada. Trump, in a video of the call posted to social media, mentioned the women’s team.

“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” he said, via the speaker on what appeared to be Patel’s phone. Trump also said that he’d “probably be impeached” if he didn’t invite the women’s team. The line was met with laughs by some of the U.S. men, who’d crowded around Patel and engaged in celebratory back-and-forth with Trump throughout the call.

Three days earlier, the U.S. women completed a 7-0 run through the Olympic tournament with a come-from-behind, 2-1 overtime victory over Canada. They haven’t lost a game in a major international competition since the 2024 Women’s World Championship gold-medal game, which Canada won 6-5 in overtime.

The Professional Women’s Hockey League, with 16 American players spread across six rosters, resumes its season on Thursday. The U.S. women’s roster also includes seven NCAA players, some of whom are scheduled to play on Friday.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

NHL, Olympics, Women's Hockey, Men's Olympic Ice Hockey, Women's Olympic Ice Hockey

2026 The Athletic Media Company

WNBA reached revenue-sharing target for first time during 2025 season: Source

WNBA reached revenue-sharing target for first time during 2025 season: SourceThe WNBA reached its revenue-sharing target for the first time during the 2025 season, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to The Athletic. ESPN was the first to report.

The specific revenue target is not enumerated in the CBA, only the mechanism required to trigger revenue sharing. The league generated enough revenue so that $16 million was shareable with the players. Of that amount, $8 million is redirected towards league marketing agreements, a program in which players promote the WNBA and its partners during the offseason. According to the collective bargaining agreement, a player can earn a maximum of $250,000 per offseason via the LMA. The other half ($8 million) will be given to the 13 teams to share among players.

The union has discretion on how the money is distributed. The WNBPA received the annual League Revenue Report on Feb. 9 and has 30 days to decide on a payout structure, according to the terms of the 2020 CBA.

The 2020 CBA introduced a revenue-sharing system that allowed players to share in overage beyond a certain target. That target increased by 20 percent each season and was cumulative over the life of the deal. As a result, even though the WNBA experienced a massive surge in revenue during the 2024 season, it could not clear the cumulative total because of the pandemic-affected seasons in 2020 and 2021, when the league’s revenue was significantly lower.

The league salary cap was $1,507,100 per team in 2025. Beyond salary, players could earn additional compensation for winning the Commissioner’s Cup ($500,000 per team), All-Star bonuses, end-of-season awards and winning playoff series.

This CBA expired on Jan. 9 after two extensions, and its revenue-sharing formula will no longer be in effect in the new one. Although the players and the league remain at odds over how to share the WNBA’s revenue, both sides have proposed a system that directly ties revenue to the salary cap rather than involving separate payouts.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

WNBA

2026 The Athletic Media Company

Sikandar Raza's wild celebration after Brian Bennett's screamer removes Shai Hope

Sikandar Raza could not contain his excitement as Brian Bennett pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss West Indies captain Shai Hope in their Group 1 Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium. The Zimbabwe skipper was visibly pumped up, celebrating animatedly after the Chevrons removed both Windies openers.

The breakthrough came when Brad Evans outfoxed Hope with a clever change of pace. Rolling his fingers across the seam, Evans delivered a slower ball on a hard length over middle and off. Hope attempted to slog it across the line but swung slightly early, failing to generate timing or power. The ball ballooned towards deep mid-wicket, where Bennett had plenty to do.



Covering significant ground to his left, Bennett kept his eyes firmly on the ball before launching into a full-length dive to complete a sensational catch. The effort left teammates thrilled and reduced West Indies to 54/2. It was a moment of brilliance in the field, underlining Zimbabwe’s sharpness and intensity in the must-win encounter.

Earlier, Raza had called correctly at the toss and elected to bowl first, hoping to exploit any early assistance on offer. With South Africa and India also in Group 1 — the Proteas having thrashed India by 76 runs in Ahmedabad — both Zimbabwe and West Indies knew a victory would heap further pressure on the co-hosts.

Zimbabwe entered the Super 8s on a high after topping Group B, having stunned Australia and Sri Lanka in the league stage. It marked their first-ever qualification to the second round of a T20 World Cup. West Indies, who topped Group C, made one change, bringing in Romario Shepherd for Roston Chase. Zimbabwe introduced Richard Ngarava in place of Wellington Masakadza.

While the Wankhede pitch traditionally favours batters, it has shown signs of slowing down in the second innings, making Zimbabwe’s early strikes — and Bennett’s screamer — all the more crucial.

Tigers' Cy Young pitcher Tarik Skubal plans to make 1 start for USA in World Baseball Classic and be done

Tarik Skubal's stint with Team USA at the World Baseball Classic will be short-lived. 

The Detroit Tigers ace told reporters Monday that he'll make one WBC start and then be done with the tournament. It sounds like the start will come in pool play, rather than a potential appearance the knockout round. 

Skubal confirmed the plan from spring training in Florida and explained that he's prioritizing getting ready for Detroit's season after his start. 

"I'm trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season," Skubal said, per The Athletic's Cody Stavenhagen. "I think it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity."

Skubal also said that he'd lobby the Tigers to rejoin Team USA as a spectator if it makes the finals, indicating that his start will come sometime early in pool play. 

"If they go to the finals, I think I'm going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys," he added.

The WBC finals will be played in Miami, not far from Detroit's spring training home of Lakeland in central Florida.

The Tigers and Tarik Skubal are limiting his exposure to wear and tear and injury risk in the World Baseball Classic.
The Tigers and Tarik Skubal are limiting his exposure to wear and tear and injury risk in the World Baseball Classic.
ASSOCIATED PRESS

The reigning two-time AL Cy Young winner, Skubal's absence after his planned start will leave USA without arguably its top pitcher for the remainder of the tournament. USA has a deep roster of nine starting pitchers to choose from, including reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes, two-time All-Star Logan Webb and All-Star Joe Ryan.

The upgrade of its pitching staff from the previous WBC was expected to give USA a leg up in the tournament after it lost to Japan on the final at-bat of the championship game in 2023. Skubal's limited availability is a blow to those plans and will leave USA without one of its top options on the mound in high-leverage elimination games if it advances beyond pool play.

The decision appears to be a compromise from the Tigers allowing Skubal to pitch for Team USA while limiting his exposure to wear and tear and injury risk. The Tigers are coming off a season in which they bounced back from a regular-season collapse that allowed the Cleveland Guardians to win the AL Central to clinch a wild-card berth and beat the Guardians in the wild-card round. The Tiger lost to the Seattle Mariners in the divisional round of the playoffs. 

Detroit's projected to contend for the AL Central title in 2026, and Skubal's health and performance is a big part of those plans. 

After exhibitions against the San Francisco Giants and Colorado Rockies, Team USA will begin pool play at the WBC against Brazil on March 6. The WBC finals are scheduled for March 17. MLB's full Opening Day slate including Detroit's season opener against the San Diego Padres is scheduled for March 26. 

(PR) Playable Demo of Wanderburg Available Today

23 February 2026 at 23:59
Sidekick Publishing and developer Randwerk are excited to announce their partnership on the highly-wishlisted open-world roguelike WANDERBURG, with a surprise playable demo launching Today as part of Steam Next Fest. WANDERBURG landed with a bang during its breakout reveal at the 2025 PC Gaming Show, with a trailer that has since racked up over 470,000 views. The game has since received over 250,000 wishlists and saw 126,000 participants during the recent closed playtest.

Inspired by Mortal Engines and Howl's Moving Castle, WANDERBURG is a minimalist open-world roguelike in an ecosystem of Castles on Wheels. Consume, grow bigger, upgrade your modules, and survive! Unlock new weapons, build your castle, and discover a procedurally generated map.

Anthropic accuses Chinese AI labs of mining Claude as US debates AI chip exports

23 February 2026 at 23:57
Anthropic accuses DeepSeek, Moonshot, and MiniMax of using 24,000 fake accounts to distill Claude’s AI capabilities, as U.S. officials debate export controls aimed at slowing China’s AI progress.

Uber’s new autonomous vehicle division is about survival and opportunity

23 February 2026 at 23:54
Uber Autonomous Solutions will see the company taking on all the tasks associated with operating a robotaxi, self-driving truck, or sidewalk delivery robot business.

Americans are destroying Flock surveillance cameras

23 February 2026 at 22:49
While some cities are moving to end their contracts with Flock over its links to ICE, others are taking matters into their own hands.

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Swan Hellenic Rolls Out Free Airfare Promo for 2026 Asia Pacific Voyages

Swan Hellenic has introduced a limited time offer covering free roundtrip airfare from select U.S. and Canadian gateways for guests who book their 2026 Asia Pacific sailings onboard the SH Minerva before February 28, 2026. The deal includes other benefits, such as cruise savings up to $1,500 per person, complimentary Wi-Fi upgrades to stay connected,...

Thousands of Passengers Impacted in Canada as Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, Porter and More Airlines Cancel 350 and Delay 282 New Flights at Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, Ottawa, and St. John’s

23 February 2026 at 23:58
Thousands of Passengers Impacted in Canada as Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, Porter and More Airlines Cancel 350 and Delay 282 New Flights at Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, Ottawa, and St. John’s
Canada cancellations

Thousands of passengers in Canada are facing significant disruptions today as Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, Porter, and several other airlines cancelled 350 and delayed 282 flights. Major cities like Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, Ottawa, and St. John’s have been severely impacted, leaving travelers stranded or uncertain about their travel plans. The massive delays and cancellations are linked to extreme weather conditions caused by a severe US winter storm. These storms have disrupted air traffic across the US and Canada, causing a ripple effect at key airports.

Passengers are being advised to stay in contact with their airlines for updates and potential rebooking options. The chaos has left many uncertain, with several flights grounded, making it crucial for all impacted travelers to plan ahead and explore alternative options for their journey.

Severe US Winter Storms Are Driving Flight Chaos and Rippling Into Canada

Today’s flight disruption data from Canada’s major airlines isn’t happening in isolation — it’s part of a widespread weather crisis rooted in severe storms across the United States, especially a powerful nor’easter and blizzard system hitting the US Northeast and East Coast.

Meteorologists and travel reporting confirm that a massive winter storm system — often called a nor’easter and labelled “Winter Storm Hernando” — has brought heavy snow, blizzard conditions, strong winds and widespread cancellations across key US air hubs like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Newark and other major airports.

These conditions have grounded planes, forced airport closures, and created cascading delays and cancellations throughout the US airspace system. Because Canada’s airline network (especially Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz (ACA) and others) operates flights into and out of US hubs on a daily basis, the storm’s impact ripples northward — even when Canadian weather is normal.

Planes delayed by snow and blizzard conditions in the US can’t reposition on time. Crews reach duty limits sooner, gates and runways clog, and airlines struggle to maintain connections. That’s why delays and cancellations in Canada today are inflated — even for flights that had no Canadian weather issues.

Total Travel Disruptions in Canada

Severe winter storms sweeping across the United States have caused massive travel disruptions throughout North America, significantly affecting Canadian airports and airlines. Today, total delays at major Canadian airports have reached 282, while 350 cancellations have been recorded. These disruptions are a direct result of adverse weather conditions in the US, specifically a powerful nor’easter affecting major US hubs like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. As flights to and from Canadian airports are delayed or cancelled, passengers are left wondering how to navigate the chaos.

Major Canadian Airports Impacted by US Storms

The following airports in Canada are experiencing significant flight disruptions:

  • Toronto Pearson International Airport: With 127 delays and 151 cancellations, Toronto Pearson has been one of the most heavily impacted airports. As a major international hub connecting Canada to the US and beyond, the cascading effect from US storms is evident in the high numbers of cancellations and delays.
  • Montreal-Trudeau International Airport: Today’s disruptions at Montreal-Trudeau include 44 delays and 69 cancellations. The storm’s ripple effect is seen in the delay of both international and domestic flights.
  • Vancouver International Airport: Vancouver reports 82 delays and 19 cancellations, mainly affecting flights traveling from East Coast US airports.
  • Halifax International Airport: While Halifax has reported fewer delays (9) and cancellations (54), it is still affected by the storm-induced chaos in the US.
  • St. John’s International Airport: With 3 delays and 28 cancellations, the airport is seeing the effects of stormy weather, even though it has a smaller number of disruptions.
  • Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport: Ottawa is also experiencing 17 delays and 24 cancellations, likely due to delays from US flights entering Canada.
  • CFB Goose Bay: This military airport, which serves limited domestic routes, has recorded 5 cancellations but no delays.

Airlines Affected by the Storms

Canadian airlines are grappling with significant disruptions due to these US-wide storms. The airlines most impacted by delays and cancellations today include:

  • Air Canada: With 42 cancellations (7%) and 77 delays (14%), Air Canada has been one of the hardest-hit carriers. As the largest Canadian airline, it services numerous routes to the US, where the storm’s impact is felt the most.
  • WestJet: 31 cancellations (6%) and 75 delays (16%) have been recorded for WestJet, which operates numerous cross-border flights.
  • Jazz (ACA): A regional airline operating for Air Canada, Jazz has seen 104 cancellations (26%) and 47 delays (11%), with most of these related to connecting flights from US airports.
  • PAL Airlines: This regional carrier has faced 33 cancellations (37%) and 1 delay (1%), showing a disproportionate impact due to the storm’s reach.
  • Porter Airlines: 25 cancellations (10%) and 36 delays (15%) have been reported, primarily affecting routes between Canadian cities and US airports.
  • Air Canada Rouge: A subsidiary of Air Canada, Rouge has experienced 9 cancellations (8%) and 11 delays (10%), contributing to the overall impact on Canadian passengers.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

If you are currently traveling or planning to travel through any of these impacted Canadian airports, here are a few steps to help you manage the disruptions:

  1. Stay Updated: Regularly check with your airline’s website or mobile app for real-time updates regarding your flight status.
  2. Contact the Airline: For cancellations, contact the airline immediately to inquire about rebooking options or possible compensation for the disruption.
  3. Know Your Rights: Canadian travelers are entitled to compensation for certain delays and cancellations under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR). Depending on the delay duration, compensation may be provided.
  4. Consider Alternative Routes: If your flight has been canceled, look for alternative routes to your destination or consider other transportation options.
  5. Arrive Early: For any remaining flights, be sure to arrive at the airport well in advance to accommodate any extra security measures or check-in processes due to the high volume of disruptions.

Conclusion

Today’s travel disruptions at Canadian airports are a direct result of the severe winter storms battering the US East Coast. With 282 delays and 350 cancellations affecting major hubs like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, it is clear that the ripple effect of these storms has disrupted not just the US but Canada’s air traffic as well. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed, reach out to airlines for rebooking options, and know their rights regarding compensation during such disruptions.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports

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Hundreds of Passengers Stranded Across the US as Major Airlines, Including American Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Delta, Cancel 129 Flights and Delay 97 More from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and More

23 February 2026 at 23:49
Hundreds of Passengers Stranded Across the US as Major Airlines, Including American Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Delta, Cancel 129 Flights and Delay 97 More from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and More
Hundreds of Passengers Stranded Across the US as Major Airlines, Including American Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Delta, Cancel 129 Flights and Delay 97 More from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and More

Travelers and airlines newly impacted by an LAX traffic increases because of 97 delays and 129 cancellations. Impacts of disruptions are reaching across all plans for travel. American Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Delta Air Lines have all been disrupted. Disruptions will affect tourism, passengers, and the airline industry.

Passengers Affected:

As a key gateway for domestic and international travelers, LAX serves millions annually. With nearly 130 flight cancellations and nearly 100 delays today alone, countless passengers have faced interruptions in their travel plans. The number of affected passengers is considerable, with some facing extended waiting times, rerouted flights, and significant changes in itineraries.

Among the most affected airlines is American Airlines, which has seen 34 cancellations and 7 delays, impacting both their operations and the experience of thousands of passengers. Other major carriers such as JetBlue, United, and Delta have also been deeply impacted, with cancellations and delays that have rippled across their networks. JetBlue, for example, had 28 cancellations, accounting for 71% of their total flights affected today, while United saw 27 cancellations and 15 delays, with Delta reporting 25 cancellations and 7 delays.

Smaller carriers like Alaska Airlines, Spirit, and Southwest also experienced disruptions, with Alaska Airlines reporting 7 cancellations and 3 delays, while Spirit and Southwest saw a limited number of delays. However, the situation wasn’t limited to domestic carriers alone. International airlines like Air France, Korean Air, and Lufthansa faced a mix of cancellations and delays, further complicating the travel experience for international passengers.

Impact on Tourism:

The widespread cancellations and delays at LAX have implications beyond just passenger frustration. As one of the busiest international airports in the U.S., LAX plays a pivotal role in the tourism industry. With many travelers from around the world passing through LAX on their way to Los Angeles and beyond, these disruptions have the potential to harm tourism. Visitors from regions such as Asia, Europe, and Latin America, who rely on international carriers, now face the possibility of delayed or canceled flights, resulting in a disruption to their travel schedules.

LAX’s delays and cancellations also affect the local tourism economy, with visitors missing out on planned excursions or events, including popular tourist attractions, conventions, and leisure activities. With a significant portion of tourism in Los Angeles relying on smooth international and domestic flight schedules, these disruptions can lead to a ripple effect that impacts hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses that depend on tourist traffic. Additionally, there may be financial losses for airlines and travel agencies as they work to accommodate displaced passengers.

Airlines and Airports Affected:

LAX serves as a hub for numerous major U.S. and international airlines, and the disruptions have affected a broad range of carriers. In addition to American Airlines, JetBlue, and United, international airlines such as Air France, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific are among those seeing cancellations. The sheer volume of affected airlines highlights the magnitude of today’s disruptions and their widespread impact.

Other carriers such as Alaska Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest have also faced operational difficulties, with Alaska Airlines reporting a notable number of canceled flights. Regional carriers, including Horizon (ASA) and SkyWest, have seen lesser disruptions but still contributed to the overall impact on operations at LAX.

In addition to airlines, the airports themselves have faced logistical hurdles in managing the delays and cancellations, with LAX authorities working to accommodate passengers during the ongoing situation. However, given the scale of the disruptions, it is clear that the airport’s capacity to handle such disruptions is being stretched.

Conclusion:

Delays and cancellations of flights happen every day at Los Angeles International Airport and will serve as a reminder of the risks taken every time someone hops on a plane. Be it weather complications, technical issues, or unforeseen issues, there will always be risks. Airlines such as American Airlines, JetBlue, and United Airlines have the most delays and cancellations.

When delays and cancellations happen, the entire tourism industry suffers as they rely on the constant movement of travelers. For Los Angeles, Denver International Airport, the Airlines, and the Tourism industry must alleviate the disruptions and keep travelers moving.

Source: Flightaware and Affected Airport

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Princess Cruises Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Special Sailings and Offers: What You Need To Know

23 February 2026 at 23:48
Princess Cruises Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Special Sailings and Offers: What You Need To Know

Princess Cruises provides travellers with a special chance to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary through their festive cruise package. The cruise line has introduced a series of themed sailings throughout 2026, along with exclusive special offers to mark the occasion. The commemorative voyages take passengers to America’s most famous destinations which include Alaska and Hawaii and New England while they enjoy special onboard experiences that show the country historic milestone.

Exploring America’s Scenic Shores: Special Sailings for 2026

As part of the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Princess Cruises is inviting passengers to embark on a selection of themed voyages, with eight ships operating in Alaska, Hawaii, and New England. These voyages feature scenic itineraries, with stops in destinations that tell the story of America’s history and natural beauty.

Among the highlights is Princess Cruises’ largest ever Alaska season, featuring 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations. This expanded schedule includes sailings on the Star Princess, a new addition to the fleet, which will serve as a flagship for the 2026 season. For travellers seeking a true connection with the wilderness and history, the Alaskan journeys will offer unforgettable views of glaciers, wildlife, and remote landscapes.

In addition to Alaska, Hawaii and New England/Canada voyages will offer guests the chance to discover tropical islands, stunning coastlines, and charming coastal towns that have played significant roles in American history. From the volcanic shores of Hawaii to the colonial buildings of New England, these itineraries provide a deep dive into the diversity of the U.S.

Exclusive Offers: Princess Signature Sale for 2026 Voyages

To make this anniversary celebration even more accessible, Princess Cruises has launched the Princess Signature Sale, providing guests with a range of limited-time promotions. From now until March 17, 2026, travellers can take advantage of:

  • Up to USD 600 instant savings on select voyages
  • USD 99 deposits to secure bookings
  • Free third and fourth guests on qualifying cruises

This sale applies to a range of 2026 sailings, including Alaska and New England itineraries, departing from convenient U.S. homeports. With these savings, families, friends, and first-time cruisers can embark on a memorable journey while enjoying an unforgettable value.

Commemorative Onboard Experiences for America’s 250th

Princess Cruises has also curated special onboard programming to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America. Guests will experience:

  • Themed entertainment and shows reflecting the nation’s heritage
  • Special food and beverage experiences, including regionally inspired menus
  • Exclusive retail items, such as commemorative Pendleton blankets and a special “Celebrating America 250 by Princess” collector pin

These activities and items are designed to immerse guests in the spirit of America’s anniversary while they explore some of the country’s most beloved destinations. These offerings are a fantastic way to commemorate the occasion, all while enjoying the luxurious experience that Princess Cruises is known for.

The Star Princess: The New Flagship for Alaska Voyages

A key highlight of the 2026 Alaska season is the inclusion of the Star Princess, as one of the newest additions to the Princess Cruises fleet, the Star Princess offers state-of-the-art amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. Featuring modern accommodations, fine dining options, and expanded entertainment venues, the Star Princess will be a central vessel in the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Passengers on these voyages will enjoy the perfect balance of luxury and adventure as they explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.

A Journey Through America’s History

The 2026 anniversary cruises not only offer incredible landscapes but also bring the history of America to life. From the early days of the American colonies in New England to the indigenous culture and volcanic formations in Hawaii, every destination offers an opportunity to understand more about the United States’ vast and diverse heritage. These sailings provide both seasoned travellers and first-time cruisers a chance to visit the landmarks and places that shaped the nation, all while experiencing the world-class service Princess Cruises is renowned for.

Celebrating America’s 250th in Style

The 2026 anniversary sailings of Princess Cruises provide a special opportunity for travelers to experience three aspects of America through its historical sites and natural landscapes and its various cultural traditions. The cruises offer special discounts and themed events and unique onboard experiences to create a memorable celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. The passengers will create enduring memories through their participation in a historic celebration which takes them to Alaska and the Hawaiian Islands and New England.

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Radisson Hotel Group Joins MBD Group in Master Franchise Agreement to Drive the Growth of Premium Brands and Enhance the Luxury Hospitality Landscape in India

23 February 2026 at 23:45
Radisson Hotel Group Joins MBD Group in Master Franchise Agreement to Drive the Growth of Premium Brands and Enhance the Luxury Hospitality Landscape in India

Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) has embarked on an exciting new chapter in India by joining forces with MBD Group through a Master Franchise Agreement. This dynamic partnership is set to fuel the rapid expansion of RHG’s prestigious brands, Radisson Collection and Radisson RED, across the country. By combining RHG’s world-class standards with MBD Group’s deep local expertise, the collaboration promises to redefine India’s luxury hospitality landscape. With a focus on both growth and innovation, this alliance will introduce cutting-edge hotel experiences, enhance the appeal of premium destinations, and cater to the growing demand for high-end accommodations. As India continues to emerge as a major player in the global hospitality market, RHG and MBD Group are perfectly positioned to lead the way in transforming the luxury travel scene.

Expanding Luxury Hospitality in India

As part of the agreement, MBD Group will spearhead the development of Radisson Collection and Radisson RED hotels in selected locations throughout India. In addition to RHG’s ongoing development efforts, MBD Group will manage key business functions, including development, management, and franchising for both brands at agreed locations. This structure will support RHG’s broader growth strategy, positioning India as a pivotal market in its expansion. With the support of RHG’s extensive partner network, the brands are set to experience robust growth in the region, tapping into emerging opportunities within the Indian luxury hospitality segment.

Radisson Blu MBD Noida’s Transformation

A major highlight of this partnership is the transformation of the Radisson Blu MBD Hotel Noida, a flagship property that was among the first five-star hotels in the area. The hotel will undergo a significant upgrade and will be rebranded as Radisson Collection MBD, aligning with the global standards of RHG’s luxury brand. The transition of this high-performing hotel marks a key milestone in RHG’s strategy to enhance its premium portfolio in India by elevating established and successful properties.

The property’s repositioning as a Radisson Collection hotel reflects RHG’s commitment to expanding its luxury offerings in India, leveraging its network to attract high-end travelers. The rebranding effort underscores the group’s vision to incorporate high-quality, landmark properties into its global portfolio, reinforcing the appeal of Radisson Collection and Radisson RED across the region.

With this strategic partnership, RHG is well-equipped to meet the increasing demand for luxury and lifestyle accommodations in India. By combining RHG’s renowned brand platforms with MBD Group’s local market expertise, the collaboration sets the stage for a new era of premium hospitality growth in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. This is just the beginning, as both brands continue to push forward with their plans for expansion in India.

Catalyzing the Next Phase of Growth in India’s Luxury and Lifestyle Hospitality Market
“India’s premium hospitality market continues to see strong growth, alongside rising demand for contemporary, design-led lifestyle experiences. This strategic partnership further strengthens our ability to expand Radisson Collection and Radisson RED across key Indian markets, alongside our broader development initiatives. MBD Group has been a trusted partner to Radisson Hotel Group for over two decades, and together we are well positioned to scale these brands while creating distinctive hotels that respond to evolving traveler expectations and reinforce our long-term commitment to India,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

“The collaboration supports our development momentum in India’s premium hospitality segment. Our development efforts with MBD team’s aid shall help us finding a higher quantum of opportunities in addition to our robust growth capabilities. With a clear asset-light focus, we are well positioned to scale strategically while sustaining long-term brand value,” said Davashish Srivastava, Senior Director, Development, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

Vision for Growth and Strategic Roadmap
Commenting on the alliance, Sonica Malhotra KandhariJoint Managing Director, MBD Group, said, “This partnership marks a decisive strategic milestone in MBD’s hospitality evolution. The first decade of partnership is targeted to deliver 50 co-branded hotels across Radisson collection MBD and Radisson RED MBD hotels predominantly through an asset light model. MBD’s prop book exposure will be around 25%. Radisson Collection MBD targeting luxury will have an extremely thought-through placement whereas Radisson RED MBD targeting lifestyle segment will be a far aggressive expansion. MBD will leverage on its pan Indian brand presence, operational excellence and no 1 leadership performance position amongst all Radisson Hotels in the country.”

Sonica further added, the planned portfolio is expected to follow an approximate mix of 80% managed and franchised hotels and 20% owned properties, reflecting a shared focus on scalable, asset-light expansion. The collaboration brings together Radisson Hotel Group’s global brand strength and MBD Group’s deep understanding of the local markets and operational expertise aimed at addressing the growing demand for high-end luxury and design-led lifestyle hospitality”

Design Philosophy and Brand Identity
Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, MBD Group, added, “Luxury today is defined by aesthetic refinement and immersive experiences. With our project design and management expertise at MBD, we aim to deliver design excellence that elevates guest experiences. Radisson Collection MBD will reflect timeless, rooted and curated luxury, while Radisson RED MBD bringing bold, playful and socially driven design and MBD superimposing its beautiful cultural narratives will redefine luxury and lifestyle hospitality in India. MBD has exhibited pinnacle performance be it education or hospitality and with this partnership we aim to become number no1 luxury and lifestyle brand, Indian origin with Global confluence in the most elegant way.”

Legacy and Value-driven Partnership

“Our association with RHG has always been built on trust and a shared commitment to quality. This expanded alliance is a reflection of the enduring legacy envisioned by our founder, Shri Ashok Kumar Malhotra, building institutions anchored on integrity and a steadfast pursuit of excellence and creating a leadership position without compromising on culture and ethics. We are truly delighted to do extremely meaningful work on Indian hospitality landscape and make India most preferred destination,” said Satish Bala Malhotra, Chairperson, MBD Group.

Radisson Hotel Group and MBD Group are united in their mission to redefine luxury and lifestyle destinations across India. Their partnership aims to create sustainable, long-term value for owners and partners, while actively contributing to the growth and enhancement of India’s hospitality sector. This collaboration will complement RHG’s ongoing independent expansion efforts in the market.

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Hundreds Of Travelers Suffer Across The USA As Dallas-Fort Worth Faces 119 New Flight Cancellations And 128 Delays Amid Severe Blizzard Warnings And Winter Storm Emergency Declarations, Disrupting United, Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier, And Other Airlines Across Boston, Philadelphia, Newark And More

23 February 2026 at 23:44
Hundreds Of Travelers Suffer Across The USA As Dallas-Fort Worth Faces 119 New Flight Cancellations And 128 Delays Amid Severe Blizzard Warnings And Winter Storm Emergency Declarations, Disrupting United, Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier, And Other Airlines Across Boston, Philadelphia, Newark And More
Hundreds Of Travelers Suffer In The USA As Dallas-Fort Worth Faces 119 Cancelled Flights And 128 Delays Amid Severe Blizzard Warnings And Winter Storm Emergency Declarations

Severe winter weather sweeping Northeast USA has triggered widespread operational disruption at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, where 119 flights have been cancelled and 128 delayed. The most affected carriers include American Airlines (81 cancellations, 81 delays), Delta Air Lines (16 cancellations, 4 delays), and United Airlines (10 cancellations, 4 delays). Other impacted airlines include Spirit Airlines (5 cancellations, 2 delays), JetBlue Airways (2 cancellations), Air Canada (2 cancellations), and Frontier Airlines (2 cancellations, 1 delay). Airports seeing major disruption include LaGuardia, Newark Liberty, Boston Logan, John F. Kennedy International, and Philadelphia International, as blizzard warnings and emergency declarations ripple across key travel corridors.

  • Updated today: 119 cancellations and 128 delays recorded at Dallas-Fort Worth amid Northeast blizzard conditions.
  • Millions remain under winter storm alerts from Maryland to Massachusetts.
  • New York City is under its first blizzard warning in nine years.
  • States including New Jersey, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania and Connecticut have declared emergencies.
  • Commercial vehicle bans and travel restrictions are in effect across multiple states.
  • American Airlines accounts for the largest share of disruptions at DFW.
  • Major New York and Boston airports are reporting full cancellation rates on several routes.
  • International routes to Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East are experiencing delays.

Airlines Most Affected by Flight Cancellations and Delays

American Airlines

81 cancellations and 81 delays, representing the largest operational impact at DFW.

Delta Air Lines

16 cancellations and 4 delays tied to storm-related disruption.

United Airlines

10 cancellations and 4 delays affecting domestic connections.

Spirit Airlines

5 cancellations and 2 delays reported.

JetBlue Airways

2 cancellations amid heavy Northeast impact.

Air Canada

2 cancellations impacting cross-border routes.

Additional carriers facing delays include Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qantas, Finnair, Japan Airlines and SkyWest, reflecting the international ripple effect of the storm system.

What can Impacted US Travelers Do?

  • Check airline websites or mobile apps for real-time status updates. Flight schedules can change multiple times within hours during severe weather, so monitoring official airline channels helps passengers track gate changes, cancellations, aircraft swaps and revised departure times.
  • Rebook through airline self-service portals where available. Many carriers provide flexible rebooking options during major disruptions, allowing travelers to select alternate flights without waiting in long airport queues or call center hold times.
  • Monitor weather advisories in both departure and arrival cities. Even if conditions appear stable at one airport, connecting cities may face restrictions, runway closures or air traffic flow controls that can affect onward travel.
  • Allow additional time for airport processing and security screening. Irregular operations often lead to crowd congestion, longer baggage processing times and extended security lines as displaced passengers attempt to reschedule travel.
  • Avoid unnecessary road travel in states under emergency declarations. Travel bans and commercial vehicle restrictions may limit highway access, making airport commutes difficult or unsafe during blizzard conditions.
  • Keep travel documents and notifications accessible for rapid rebooking. Having identification, confirmation numbers, and digital boarding passes readily available can speed up re-accommodation procedures if flights are cancelled or significantly delayed.

Overview of Flight Disruptions

Winter storm conditions in the USA stretching from Maryland through Massachusetts have significantly disrupted air traffic flows into and out of Dallas-Fort Worth. Airports in New York and Boston are experiencing concentrated cancellation clusters, particularly at LaGuardia, Newark Liberty, JFK and Boston Logan. Philadelphia International is also reporting extensive disruption.
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are absorbing the majority of cancellations at Dallas-Fort Worth, while JetBlue and Spirit Airlines have also recorded operational setbacks. International carriers including Lufthansa, Emirates and Qantas are seeing delays tied to the broader network slowdown.
The blizzard warning affecting New York City — its first in nearly a decade — combined with state emergency declarations in New Jersey, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, has restricted highway movement and commercial vehicle operations. These conditions are compounding scheduling difficulties and aircraft rotations across major hubs.
With major East Coast airports repeatedly impacted and Dallas-Fort Worth functioning as a central connecting hub, the cascading effect continues to disrupt domestic and international travel. Passengers traveling through New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Dallas are experiencing the highest levels of interruption as winter weather conditions persist.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware

The post Hundreds Of Travelers Suffer Across The USA As Dallas-Fort Worth Faces 119 New Flight Cancellations And 128 Delays Amid Severe Blizzard Warnings And Winter Storm Emergency Declarations, Disrupting United, Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier, And Other Airlines Across Boston, Philadelphia, Newark And More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Hundreds of Passengers Grounded in the US as 95 Flights Are Cancelled and 38 Delayed by Republic, Southwest, Endeavor Air, JetBlue, United Airlines and Others, Triggering Disruptions in New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago, Orlando and Beyond

23 February 2026 at 23:43
Hundreds of Passengers Grounded in the US as 95 Flights Are Cancelled and 38 Delayed by Republic, Southwest, Endeavor Air, JetBlue, United Airlines and Others, Triggering Disruptions in New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago, Orlando and Beyond
 US

A powerful winter storm system sweeping across parts of the United States has grounded hundreds of passengers after 95 flights were cancelled and 38 delayed, disrupting travel across major cities including New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago, Orlando and beyond. The primary cause of the disruption was severe winter weather conditions — including heavy snowfall, freezing rain, strong winds and reduced visibility — that forced airlines to scale back operations for safety reasons.

The cancellations impacted services operated by Republic Airways, Southwest Airlines, Endeavor Air, JetBlue, United Airlines and several other carriers. With nearly 133 flights affected within a short operational window, the ripple effects quickly spread through multiple aviation hubs, straining airline schedules and leaving travelers scrambling for alternatives.

Breakdown of the 95 Cancellations and 38 Delays

The 95 cancellations spanned both short-haul regional routes and longer domestic services. Regional flights operated by Republic Airways and Endeavor Air were particularly vulnerable because these aircraft often complete multiple segments per day. If one flight is cancelled due to weather, subsequent legs are often removed from the schedule.

Southwest Airlines and United Airlines saw cancellations across major domestic corridors linking the Midwest, Northeast and Florida. JetBlue experienced disruptions on its Northeast-heavy network, especially routes touching New York and Orlando.

The 38 delayed flights created additional congestion inside terminals as passengers monitored departure boards that frequently updated with revised gate assignments and times.

Major Cities Feel the Ripple Effect

The disruption was not confined to a single airport. Instead, it cascaded across interconnected hubs:

  • New York (JFK and LaGuardia) saw reduced arrival and departure rates due to snowfall and wind gusts.
  • Philadelphia International Airport experienced both inbound and outbound cancellations.
  • Chicago O’Hare dealt with de-icing backlogs and air traffic flow restrictions.
  • Los Angeles International Airport encountered secondary delays as inbound aircraft failed to arrive on schedule.
  • Orlando International Airport, a major leisure gateway, saw travelers rebooked and some flights pushed to the following day.

Because aircraft operate on tightly coordinated schedules, a cancellation in Chicago can affect flights later scheduled to depart from Orlando or Los Angeles. This interconnected structure magnifies weather-related disruptions.

Airlines Grapple with Operational Strain

United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, both major domestic carriers with extensive route networks, saw multiple schedule adjustments as aircraft rotations fell behind. JetBlue, with a strong presence in the Northeast and Florida corridors, experienced ripple effects across its high-demand routes.

Republic Airways and Endeavor Air, operating regional services for larger network carriers, faced cascading impacts when aircraft positioning became disrupted. Regional fleets typically have tighter scheduling windows, making them especially sensitive to operational slowdowns.

While airlines activated rebooking protocols and in some cases offered travel waivers, limited seat availability on alternate flights made same-day re-accommodation difficult for many passengers.

Winter Storm and Weather Disruption as the Major Cause

The central driver behind the widespread cancellations was a fast-moving winter storm that impacted several key airport regions simultaneously. Snow accumulation and icy runway conditions required extensive de-icing operations, reducing the number of aircraft that could depart safely.

Air traffic control programs were implemented in affected regions to manage congestion and maintain safe separation between aircraft. During winter storms, runway capacity can be reduced significantly, sometimes by up to 40 percent, as additional spacing between flights is required.

De-icing procedures further extend turnaround times. Each aircraft must undergo treatment before departure, which adds minutes to every flight and slows the entire system. When this occurs at multiple hubs at once, airlines are forced to proactively cancel select flights to prevent even deeper gridlock.

High winds and poor visibility also contributed to holding patterns and arrival delays, particularly at busy airports in New York and Chicago.

Passenger Experience: Delays, Rebookings and Overnight Stays

Inside major airports, long lines formed at airline counters as stranded travelers sought alternate arrangements. Many passengers were automatically rebooked via airline apps, but some faced next-day departures due to limited availability.

Business travelers reported missed meetings, while families traveling during peak season encountered sudden itinerary changes. Connecting passengers were particularly impacted, as a single weather-related cancellation often disrupted multiple legs of travel.

Hotels near airports in New York, Chicago and Orlando reported increased bookings from stranded travelers. Rental car counters and ground transportation services also saw surges in demand.

Broader Implications for US Winter Travel

The disruption highlights how vulnerable the US aviation network remains during winter storm season. Airlines operate with high aircraft utilization and minimal slack capacity. When multiple hubs face weather constraints simultaneously, even moderate cancellation numbers can escalate into nationwide travel turbulence.

Winter weather — including snow, ice and wind — remains one of the most disruptive forces in aviation. Despite advanced forecasting tools and operational planning, severe conditions still require airlines to prioritize safety over schedule reliability.

Recovery Timeline and What Travelers Should Know

As storm conditions gradually ease and runway clearing operations conclude, airlines are repositioning aircraft and crews to stabilize operations. Full recovery from more than 100 disrupted flights typically takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on aircraft distribution and congestion levels.

Travelers scheduled to fly in the coming days should:

  • Monitor flight statuses frequently.
  • Arrive early at airports.
  • Confirm rebooking details in advance.
  • Review airline weather waiver policies.
  • Consider flexible routing options if necessary.

Preparation and flexibility remain essential during winter weather events.

Conclusion

The cancellation of 95 flights and delay of 38 more due to a powerful winter storm has once again demonstrated how quickly weather can ground hundreds of passengers across the United States. With Republic Airways, Southwest Airlines, Endeavor Air, JetBlue, United Airlines and others affected, disruptions rippled through major cities including New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago and Orlando.

While airlines are working to restore stability, the episode underscores the fragile balance of modern air travel during severe weather. In a system operating at near capacity, even temporary reductions in runway throughput and aircraft movement can trigger widespread delays and cancellations.

As winter storm season continues, travelers across the US are reminded that weather-driven turbulence remains one of aviation’s most persistent challenges — and flexibility remains the key to navigating it.

Source: Regional airport and FlightAware

The post Hundreds of Passengers Grounded in the US as 95 Flights Are Cancelled and 38 Delayed by Republic, Southwest, Endeavor Air, JetBlue, United Airlines and Others, Triggering Disruptions in New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago, Orlando and Beyond appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Florida Attracts Global Attention with Skyrocketing International and Domestic Tourism in 2025

23 February 2026 at 23:38
Florida Attracts Global Attention with Skyrocketing International and Domestic Tourism in 2025

In 2025, Florida’s tourism industry reached unprecedented levels, attracting a record 143.3 million visitors. This surge in both international and domestic tourism has catapulted the state to new heights, solidifying its reputation as a top global destination. Florida’s allure is rooted in a diverse mix of attractions, including iconic theme parks, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it a prime location for travelers from all over the world.

For domestic tourists, Florida continues to be the go-to destination, with more than 131 million arrivals in 2025. Its well-known family-friendly destinations, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, paired with its stunning coastlines and year-round pleasant weather, ensure a steady flow of visitors from across the U.S. These factors make Florida an appealing vacation spot for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and entertainment, reinforcing its status as a top national tourism hotspot.

On the international front, Florida has seen significant growth, particularly from countries like Brazil, Argentina, and various European nations. Strategic marketing campaigns and the state’s global reputation for major attractions have played a crucial role in this expansion. Florida’s proximity to Canada also contributes to its strong international presence, with Canadian travelers flocking to the state to escape colder climates. This international influx, combined with domestic growth, highlights Florida’s increasing prominence as a global tourism powerhouse in 2025.

International travel also played a significant role in Florida’s success in 2025. Approximately 9.3 million overseas visitors traveled to the state, marking a steady flow of global tourists seeking Florida’s renowned attractions. The state saw particularly strong visitation from markets like Brazil, Argentina, and several European nations, where Florida’s tourist offerings continue to captivate international travelers. Despite the positive overall growth, some regions did experience slight declines in visitation, a trend that analysts attributed to shifting global travel patterns and external factors, including economic fluctuations.

In addition to these international visitors, Florida also welcomed around 2.9 million travelers from neighboring Canada. This steady flow of Canadian tourists reflects the state’s long-standing popularity as a winter getaway, with its warm climate providing a stark contrast to the cold northern temperatures. Many Canadians return year after year, making Florida a familiar and preferred vacation destination for them.

One of the most impressive aspects of Florida’s tourism performance in 2025 came during the final quarter of the year. Over 33.5 million people visited the state in the last three months, making it the highest fourth-quarter total ever recorded. This spike was particularly significant given that the holiday season and year-end festivities tend to attract large crowds. The rise in visitors during this period can be attributed to several factors, including holiday travel, increased events and festivals, and the continued popularity of Florida’s major tourist spots such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and the beaches of Miami and Clearwater.

Airports across Florida reported sustained heavy traffic, signaling the resilience of the tourism sector. Despite challenges like severe weather events, including hurricanes, and shifting travel trends caused by global economic changes, the state’s tourism industry has remained steadfast. These factors might have influenced travel behaviors, but they didn’t deter people from making Florida a priority destination. Florida’s efficient transportation infrastructure, including busy international airports like Orlando International, Miami International, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, facilitated the smooth movement of millions of travelers each month.

The figures for 2025 represent a modest increase from 2024, which saw around 142.9 million visitors. While the year-on-year growth is small, it is still significant given the turbulence faced by the global tourism industry in recent years. Experts point to the collective efforts made by the state’s tourism leaders, as well as the ongoing investment in improving tourism infrastructure, as key drivers behind the sustained growth in Florida’s tourism sector. State officials have prioritized marketing campaigns that promote the state’s diverse attractions, as well as continued development in hospitality, transportation, and cultural offerings.

Florida’s tourism industry also benefits from an expanding portfolio of attractions and amenities. The state’s ongoing investment in its renowned beaches, theme parks, resorts, and cultural institutions has played an essential role in maintaining Florida’s appeal for both new and returning visitors. Over the years, the state has continued to develop and refine its tourism infrastructure, ensuring that both domestic and international travelers experience seamless and memorable vacations. From new hotel openings to expanded flight routes, Florida has positioned itself as a destination that can accommodate a wide range of travel needs and budgets.

In addition to physical infrastructure, the state has placed a strong emphasis on digital marketing, using innovative strategies to reach global audiences. Efforts to boost Florida’s tourism presence on social media platforms, collaborate with international travel agencies, and leverage content marketing have helped keep the state top-of-mind for potential visitors. This ongoing outreach has ensured that Florida remains a competitive force in the global tourism market, with new travelers continuously discovering what the state has to offer.

Looking ahead, experts predict that Florida’s tourism sector will continue to expand, driven by consistent domestic demand, rising international visitation, and the state’s relentless focus on improving its tourism offerings. With more attractions, advanced infrastructure, and a diverse cultural landscape, Florida remains a beacon for tourists from around the world.

In 2025, Florida attracted global attention with a record-breaking 143.3 million visitors, driven by a surge in both domestic tourism and international travel from markets like Brazil, Argentina, and Europe. The state’s diverse attractions and strategic marketing have solidified its position as a top global destination.

In conclusion, the tourism industry in Florida has proven itself resilient and adaptive, continuing to set records despite global challenges. The state’s ability to attract more than 143 million visitors in 2025 is a testament to its allure as a global tourism powerhouse. By maintaining consistent marketing, investing in its attractions, and ensuring top-tier infrastructure, Florida’s tourism industry is well-positioned to grow and thrive in the years to come.

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Monte Carlo, London, Bangkok, Cape Town Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils Nearly Fifty New Luxury Land Experiences to Turn 2026 Sailings into Extended Global Journeys!

23 February 2026 at 23:32
Monte Carlo, London, Bangkok, Cape Town Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unveils Nearly Fifty New Luxury Land Experiences to Turn 2026 Sailings into Extended Global Journeys!

Luxury travelers departing from or arriving in Monte Carlo, London, Whittier, Bangkok, Galveston, Auckland, and Cape Town will soon have more opportunities to explore beyond the ship. Regent Seven Seas Cruises has introduced a new collection of nearly 50 multi-day land programs that will be available on select sailings beginning in 2026 and extending into 2027. The expanded portfolio is designed to give guests deeper cultural immersion, allowing them to extend their journeys with curated experiences before or after their cruise. These programs will be offered across six ships in the company’s fleet and focus on local culture, heritage, cuisine, and natural landscapes. Bookings are now open, and travelers should note that land programs must be reserved at least 90 days prior to sailing. Availability varies depending on the specific voyage.

Expanding the Luxury Cruise Experience

The newly introduced land extensions reflect a growing demand among luxury travelers for longer, more immersive journeys. Instead of limiting exploration to port visits, the programs allow guests to spend multiple days experiencing a destination in depth.

Each itinerary includes:

  • Guided sightseeing and curated excursions
  • Hotel accommodations
  • Seamless transfers between ship and land
  • Experiences designed around the cruise’s embarkation or disembarkation port

These extensions are offered at an additional cost and are aligned with specific sailings.

Pre-Cruise Land Programs

French Riviera Discovery from Monte Carlo

The four-day “Gems of the Côte d’Azur” program is available before the July 6, 2026 sailing aboard Seven Seas Splendor. Travelers departing from Monte Carlo will explore the French Riviera’s coastal towns, cultural landmarks, and Mediterranean scenery before the ship sails to Rome.

British Heritage and Cuisine from London

Guests joining the August 3, 2026 roundtrip voyage from Southampton on Seven Seas Voyager can opt for the five-day “British Countryside and Cuisine” experience. The itinerary includes time in:

  • London
  • Oxford
  • Beaulieu
  • Winchester

The program highlights historic architecture, rural landscapes, and regional culinary traditions.

Alaska Exploration from Whittier

Before the August 2026 sailing of Seven Seas Explorer from Whittier to Vancouver, guests can participate in the four-day “Discover the Good Land” program. This extension focuses on Alaska’s wilderness, scenic landscapes, and wildlife-rich environments.

Post-Cruise Land Programs

Cultural Journey to Luang Prabang from Bangkok

After a 12-night voyage from Hong Kong to Bangkok in November 2026, travelers aboard Seven Seas Explorer can join the four-day “Treasures of Luang Prabang” program.

The experience includes:

  • Travel to Laos
  • Exploration of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Visits to Buddhist temples, historic districts, and cultural landmarks

Southeast Texas Experience from Galveston

Following the 15-night sailing from Miami to Galveston on Seven Seas Splendor, guests can extend their trip with the four-day “Galveston Getaway.”

The itinerary focuses on:

  • Regional history
  • Coastal landscapes
  • Local culture of Southeast Texas

New Zealand Highlights from Auckland

Passengers disembarking in Auckland after the December 29, 2026 sailing from Sydney aboard Seven Seas Explorer can choose the four-day “Jewels of the South.”

This program showcases New Zealand’s natural scenery and cultural experiences, offering a deeper look at the country beyond the cruise port.

Outdoor Adventures in Cape Town

For active travelers, the five-day “Outdoors & Active in Cape Town” program is available after the January 17, 2027 voyage aboard Seven Seas Navigator from Mauritius to Cape Town.

The extension emphasizes:

  • Outdoor exploration
  • Coastal and mountain landscapes
  • Opportunities for active sightseeing in South Africa

Fleet-Wide Coverage

The new land collection spans multiple vessels, including:

  • Seven Seas Splendor
  • Seven Seas Voyager
  • Seven Seas Explorer
  • Seven Seas Navigator

Overall, the programs cover destinations across:

  • Europe
  • North America
  • Asia
  • Oceania
  • Africa
  • Alaska

This global reach aligns with the cruise line’s strategy to provide destination-focused luxury travel.

Booking and Planning Essentials

Travelers considering these extensions should keep the following key points in mind:

  • Reservations must be made at least 90 days before sailing
  • Programs are capacity-controlled and subject to availability
  • Land experiences are priced separately from cruise fares
  • Early booking is recommended for popular itineraries and peak travel dates

Because the programs are integrated with cruise schedules, they offer convenient logistics and coordinated transfers.

Responding to Changing Travel Preferences

The introduction of nearly 50 new land programs reflects a broader shift in luxury travel toward experiential and longer stays. Tourism authorities worldwide continue to promote extended visits and deeper cultural engagement, which support local economies and sustainable tourism goals. By encouraging travelers to spend more time in gateway cities and surrounding regions, the programs help distribute tourism benefits while enhancing the overall travel experience.

Enhancing Time in Home Ports

Many embarkation and disembarkation cities such as Monte Carlo, Southampton, Bangkok, Auckland, and Cape Town serve as gateways to culturally and geographically rich regions.

These structured extensions allow travelers to:

  • Explore beyond the port city
  • Avoid complex independent planning
  • Experience regional highlights in a curated format

Outlook for 2026–2027

With bookings already open, the expanded land collection is expected to appeal to travelers planning milestone journeys and long-haul vacations. The combination of luxury cruising and curated land exploration reflects a growing trend toward integrated, destination-rich travel experiences. For travelers seeking to transform a cruise into a comprehensive global journey, the new programs offer opportunities to explore iconic regions more deeply whether discovering the French Riviera before departure, experiencing Laos after a Southeast Asia voyage, or extending an African itinerary with outdoor adventures in Cape Town.

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Storm Hernando Travel Chaos: Hundreds of Transatlantic Flights Cancelled at Major UK & US Airports

23 February 2026 at 23:30
Storm Hernando Travel Chaos: Hundreds of Transatlantic Flights Cancelled at Major UK & US Airports

For many travelers, Monday morning, February 23, 2026, was supposed to be the start of a productive work week or a long-awaited holiday. Instead, it became a masterclass in patience as Storm Hernando unleashed a wave of cancellations that spanned from the Eastern Seaboard of the United States to the busiest runways in the United Kingdom.

What began as a “major winter storm” warning from the US National Weather Service has rapidly mutated into a logistical nightmare for airlines and passengers alike. As the storm battered the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast US with heavy snow, fierce winds, and coastal flooding, the effects were felt thousands of miles away at Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Dublin.

The UK Hubs: Heathrow and Gatwick in Crisis

London Heathrow, often described as the “world’s junction,” bore the brunt of the UK disruptions. On Monday alone, a staggering 32 flights scheduled to depart from Heathrow to New York’s JFK were scrapped. The cancellations weren’t just one-way; incoming flights from the US were also grounded, leaving aircraft and crews out of position.+1

At London Gatwick, the scene was similar. Departure boards glowed with the dreaded red “Cancelled” text, as airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic struggled to manage the backlog. The issue isn’t just the weather at the destination; it’s the “flow control”—the safety-mandated spacing between aircraft—that prevents airports from operating at full capacity when visibility and wind speeds hit dangerous levels.

Northern Disruptions: Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin

The chaos wasn’t confined to London. Manchester Airport saw several direct transatlantic services cancelled, while Edinburgh Airport reported that 35 outgoing flights had the second leg of their journeys (often US-bound connections) called off.+1

Across the Irish Sea, Dublin Airport issued an official advisory via social media, confirming that 13 flights had been axed due to the “perilous” conditions on the US East coast. For Irish travelers, the disruption hit hardest on routes to Boston, Newark, and JFK, leaving many stranded in the terminal as they scrambled to find accommodation or alternative routes.+1

The Human Element: Passengers in Limbo

Behind the statistics of “4,000 global cancellations” are the human stories. In Heathrow’s Terminal 2, families were seen huddling near power outlets, their holidays to Disney World or New York City put on indefinite hold. Business travelers, usually armed with gold-status perks, found themselves in the same long queues as everyone else, as airline call centers reached wait times of over three hours.

“It’s the uncertainty that’s the hardest,” said one passenger stranded at Manchester. “You don’t know if you should go home, find a hotel, or wait it out for a flight that might not leave for another two days.”

Airlines have responded by waiving rebooking fees, but with so many flights grounded, finding an available seat on a future flight is becoming a “Hunger Games” style scramble.

Why “Storm Hernando” is Different

Meteorologists have pointed to the sheer scale of Hernando as the reason for such widespread disruption. With blizzard warnings covering a corridor from Washington D.C. to Maine and snow totals reaching up to 28 inches in some areas, the US East Coast infrastructure—including major hubs like JFK and Logan International—essentially went into “hibernation” to ensure safety.

When the US “shuts its doors,” the UK’s transatlantic schedule collapses. The “impossible travel conditions” cited by the National Weather Service aren’t just an exaggeration; they are a reality for ground crews who cannot safely de-ice planes or load baggage in the face of 60mph gusts and whiteout conditions.

Expert Advice for Stranded Travelers

If you are currently caught in the Storm Hernando chaos, travel experts suggest the following:

  1. Use the App, Not the Desk: Airline apps are often updated faster than airport screens. You can often rebook yourself through the app without waiting in a physical queue.
  2. Know Your Rights: Under UK261 regulations, airlines are often required to provide food vouchers and overnight accommodation if your flight is delayed or cancelled, even if the cause is weather-related (though compensation for “extraordinary circumstances” like a storm is usually not required).
  3. Check the “Inbound” Flight: Use flight tracking apps to see where the plane before yours is coming from. If that plane never left the US, your flight won’t be leaving the UK.

Looking Ahead

While forecasts suggest the worst of Storm Hernando will subside by Tuesday evening, the “knock-on” effects will likely last through the end of the week. Aircraft are currently in the wrong cities, and crew hours have been exhausted.

For now, the best advice for any traveler with a transatlantic ticket is to stay home, keep your phone charged, and wait for the “all clear” from the skies.

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Thailand, Nepal, Maldives and More Join SATTE 2026 South Asia’s Premier Travel and Tourism Trade Show in New Delhi

23 February 2026 at 23:30
Thailand, Nepal, Maldives and More Join SATTE 2026 South Asia’s Premier Travel and Tourism Trade Show in New Delhi

South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange 2026 (SATTE) is a premier travel and tourism trade show in the region, bringing together tourism boards, travel agencies, hospitality businesses, and industry professionals. Scheduled from 25–27 February 2026, the event will be held at YashoBhoomi in Dwarka, New Delhi. SATTE serves as a dynamic platform for showcasing travel destinations, accommodation options, innovative tourism services, and new trends in the industry. Attendees can participate in exhibitions, networking sessions, and knowledge-sharing workshops, making it an essential gathering for professionals and enthusiasts in the South Asian tourism sector.

The event offers a platform to explore emerging travel trends, discover new destinations, and showcase innovative services. Participants can engage in exhibitions, interactive presentations, business-to-business meetings, and networking opportunities, making it an essential event for anyone looking to connect with key players in the South Asian tourism market.

Expected Visitors and Exhibitors at SATTE 2026

The South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2026 is set to attract a large and diverse audience, with an estimated 20,000 to 50,000 visitors from across the region and beyond. Over 500 exhibitors will participate, including tourism boards, travel agencies, hotel chains, airlines, and service providers, showcasing their destinations, products, and innovations. This scale ensures extensive networking, business opportunities, and insights into the latest trends in the travel and tourism industry.

Things Happening at South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2026

At SATTE 2026, Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition returns as a comprehensive B2B platform where industry professionals, tourism boards, businesses, and buyers come together to connect, collaborate, and grow.

1. Large‑Scale Exhibitions

Thousands of exhibitors from over 60 countries will showcase travel products, services, destinations, hospitality offerings, and tourism technologies — giving attendees a global view of the industry.

2. B2B Networking & Meetings

Structured face‑to‑face meetings and networking sessions allow travel buyers, sellers, tour operators, and industry leaders to build partnerships, negotiate deals, and expand business reach.

3. Destination Showcases

National and state tourism boards from India and abroad will present their destinations, attractions, travel packages, and regional specialties to industry stakeholders.

4. Conference Sessions & Panels

Expert‑led discussions, panel talks, and sessions will cover trends and insights in travel, including market growth, travel technology, niche segments (like MICE and weddings), and strategic development for future tourism growth.

5. Knowledge Sharing & Innovation Displays

Workshops and informative talks offer opportunities for participants to learn best practices, innovative solutions, and industry trends. Technology providers will showcase advancements such as AI tools and mobile booking platforms.

6. Hosted Buyer Programs

Exclusive hosted buyer initiatives facilitate deeper engagement for key buyers with curated meetings and lodging support, aimed at enhancing the business experience and attracting international participants.

7. Cultural & Promotional Activities

Certain destination pavilions and showcases may include cultural performances, promotional displays, and interactive exhibits offering immersive experiences of various regions. These combined activities make SATTE 2026 not just an exhibition but a dynamic business and knowledge ecosystem for the global travel and tourism industry.

Exhibitors at SATTE 2026

  • CLASSIC TRAVEL SHOPPE PVT LTD
    • Website
    • Exhibited In: Feb 2025
  • GOVERNMENT OF RAJASTHAN
    • Rajasthan Tourism is the state government’s official portal providing information on tourist destinations
    • Website
    • Exhibited In: Feb 2025
  • LRDMC Travel India Pvt. Ltd. (AN…)
  • TBO TEK LIMITED
  • MY VALUE TRAVEL.COM PVT LTD
  • ADV IDMC HOLIDAYS PRIVATE LIMITED
  • HOLIDAYS BOOKERS DMC INDIA PVT. LTD
  • AMARA HOTELS & RESORTS PVT LTD
  • PAXLANE DMC
  • OVERLAND ESCAPE
  • BALI TRIP DMC
  • AIROCITY HOLIDAYS PRIVATE LIMITED
  • OM SHUBH YATRA
  • HOTELBOX LLP
  • CONCEPT HOSPITALITY PVT. LTD

SATTE 2026 Event Schedule – South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange

DayDateActivities
Day 125 February 2026Opening of SATTE 2026, global exhibitors, destination showcases, networking sessions
Day 226 February 2026Exhibitions continue, B2B meetings, industry talks, and networking
Day 327 February 2026Final day of exhibition, business meetings, networking wrap-up activities
Daily Timings25–27 February 202609:00 AM – 05:00 PM / 06:00 PM (approx.)

Airports Near SATTE 2026 – South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange, New Delhi

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport
  • One of the busiest airports in India and Asia, serving as New Delhi’s main international and domestic aviation hub. It handles tens of millions of passengers annually, with extensive global and domestic flight connectivity. IGI features multiple terminals, modern facilities, significant cargo operations, and strong transport links (taxis, metro) to the city and SATTE venue in Dwarka.
  • Noida International Airport
  • Also known as Jewar Airport, this is a new greenfield international airport under development near Jewar in Uttar Pradesh. Planned to ease congestion at Delhi’s IGI Airport and serve the wider National Capital Region (NCR), it’s designed for high passenger capacity and strong future expansion. Commercial flight operations are anticipated to start around 2026, making it another strategic gateway for domestic and international travellers.
  • Hindon Airport
  • A secondary regional airport in Ghaziabad that operates from a civil enclave on an Indian Air Force airbase. It mainly serves domestic flights under regional connectivity schemes and has expanding services to several key Indian cities. Hindon offers an alternative for domestic travellers within the Delhi–NCR area and helps reduce traffic at the larger IGI Airport.

Airlines Operating Near SATTE 2026 – New Delhi

  • IndiGo
  • India’s largest airline by market share, IndiGo operates an extensive domestic network along with growing international routes across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Known for its low-cost model, punctuality, and large Airbus and ATR fleet, it connects major metros as well as regional cities efficiently.
  • Air India
  • The national flag carrier of India, Air India operates wide domestic and long-haul international services across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Following its acquisition by the Tata Group, the airline is undergoing fleet modernization and service upgrades, including new aircraft orders and expanded global connectivity.
  • SpiceJet
  • A prominent low-cost carrier in India, SpiceJet operates domestic and select international routes. It focuses on affordable fares and also runs cargo services through SpiceXpress. The airline connects major cities and several smaller destinations across the country.
  • Akasa Air
  • A relatively new Indian airline launched in 2022, Akasa Air follows a low-cost model with a modern fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. It has rapidly expanded its domestic network and is gradually adding international destinations, emphasizing youthful branding and customer-friendly services.
  • Alliance Air
  • Alliance Air is a regional airline in India that primarily operates under the government’s regional connectivity scheme (UDAN). It connects smaller cities and underserved airports to major hubs, playing a key role in improving regional air travel access.
  • Air India Express
  • A low-cost subsidiary of Air India, Air India Express operates short-haul international and domestic routes, especially between India and the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The airline focuses on budget travel while benefiting from integration within the broader Air India Group.

Hotels in Faridabad for SATTE 2026

  • Remedra Hotels and Residences
  • Located in Faridabad, Remedra Hotels and Residences offers modern accommodations with a terrace, on-site restaurant, bar, and free private parking. Its convenient location makes it a practical choice for attendees of SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India) seeking comfortable lodging near the event.
  • Radisson Blu Faridabad
  • A luxury hotel situated in Faridabad, Radisson Blu features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a flat-screen TV, and easy access to major nearby cities like Gurgaon and Noida. Guests attending SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India) can enjoy both comfort and proximity to the exhibition venue.
  • Grove House Hauz Khas New Delhi Couple Friendly
  • This property offers cozy accommodations with a terrace and free private parking in Faridabad. It’s ideal for couples or small groups attending SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India) who want a relaxed, private stay while visiting the trade show.
  • Treebo Grand Town House
  • Treebo Grand Town House is located in Faridabad and provides easy access to landmarks like Tughlaqabad Fort and Qutub Minar. The hotel features comfortable rooms and essential amenities, making it suitable for business and leisure travelers attending SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India).
  • Goldfinch Hotel Delhi NCR
  • Goldfinch Hotel Delhi NCR offers well-appointed rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi, catering to guests looking for a convenient stay in Faridabad. Attendees of SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India) can use it as a comfortable base while exploring the exhibition and the city.
  • Park Plaza Faridabad
  • A modern hotel in Faridabad featuring a fitness center, multiple dining options, 24-hour front desk service, and free Wi-Fi. Park Plaza is well-suited for professionals and international visitors attending SATTE 2026 (25–27 February 2026, YashoBhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, India) who want a blend of comfort, amenities, and accessibility to the venue.

Tourist Attractions Near SATTE 2026 – New Delhi

  • Yashobhoomi
  • Yashobhoomi, the venue for SATTE 2026, is India’s largest and most modern convention and exhibition center. Located in Dwarka, it hosts major international trade shows and events, featuring expansive exhibition halls, conference facilities, and cutting-edge infrastructure.
  • India Gate
  • A historic landmark and war memorial honoring Indian soldiers who died in World War I. Its majestic structure, surrounded by lush lawns, is a popular spot for visitors attending SATTE to experience Delhi’s heritage and enjoy evening strolls.
  • Qutub Minar
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world, built in the 12th century. Its Indo-Islamic architecture, ancient ruins, and famous Iron Pillar make it a must-visit for SATTE attendees interested in history and culture.
  • Red Fort
  • This 17th-century Mughal fortress is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Red Fort is symbolic of India’s rich history and is a popular tourist destination for SATTE visitors exploring Delhi’s heritage.
  • Humayun’s Tomb
  • A Mughal-era mausoleum set within Persian-style gardens, Humayun’s Tomb inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. It offers SATTE attendees a glimpse into India’s architectural and cultural history.
  • Lotus Temple
  • The Lotus Temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship famous for its lotus-shaped design and serene environment. SATTE 2026 visitors can experience its modern architecture and spiritual ambiance.
  • Akshardham Temple
  • Akshardham Temple is a grand Hindu temple complex featuring intricate carvings, cultural exhibitions, and musical fountains. It provides SATTE attendees an insight into India’s spirituality and heritage.

SATTE 2026 in New Delhi is a premier travel and tourism event, offering exhibitors and visitors a dynamic platform for networking, business growth, and industry insights. Coupled with Delhi’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant hubs like Connaught Place, attendees can combine professional engagement with exploration of the city’s lifestyle, shopping, and entertainment.


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Yesterday — 23 February 2026Main stream

Samsung loads Camera Assistant with powerful new controls – Check all features

23 February 2026 at 22:55

Samsung has pushed a new update for Camera Assistant with version 4.5.00.19. This update adds a bunch of new camera features and improvements. It shows that Samsung wants to give users better control and better photo and video quality. 

According to the changelog of the update, this update brings simple but powerful tools to enhance Galaxy Photography. Let’s explore the changes.

New Features of Camera Assistant

The fresh update brings Touch AF/AE in Pro Video mode. This lets users tap on the screen to change focus and brightness while recording a video. Focus peaking is now available in Pro modes too. This helps users easily see what is sharp and in focus. There are also new settings like speed and sensitivity to control how fast and how smoothly the camera focuses.

Samsung Camera Assistant new features

Image via TarunVats

Also, the update adds a 24MP photo option. This gives clear and detailed pictures without making file sizes too large. There are also more controls in Photo Mode for users who like to adjust settings manually. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) has been improved to reduce shaking in photos and videos. A new swipe gesture on the shutter button makes taking pictures faster and easier.

For video recording, Samsung has added a video softening option. This can make faces look smoother. The app also supports 8K recording when mirroring. Users can now save their favorite settings as presets in Pro Mode. On-screen indicators can also be customized to make the camera screen look cleaner.

There is also support for TILTA wireless lens controllers, which may help professional users. Aside from this, Samsung has also added more modes and improvements to make camera controls and taking photos easier.

Samsung is going to launch the Galaxy S26 series this week. It seems like the company is making the camera ready for this series with new features. Stay tuned.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Scalpers demand north of $10,000 for the record-breaking MSI RTX 5090 Lightning Z GPU

23 February 2026 at 23:26
MSI's RTX 5090 Lightning Z is not for the faint-hearted. With a modified BIOS setting that can allow the card to pull in a mind-bending 2,500 watts, the Lightning Z GPU has already broken several world records, and is currently selling for unfathomable prices on eBay.

Xiaomi teases the global 17 Ultra with a video

23 February 2026 at 22:33

Xiaomi launched the 17 Ultra in China in December and the phone will finally make its global debut on February 28, the company has recently revealed. Today, it's uploaded a very quick teaser video for the global device on YouTube, you can see it below. It features the colorway that's called Starlit Green internationally (and something resembling Starry Green in China). The international variant of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to have identical specs to the Chinese version, aside from the battery capacity, which is rumored to be just 6,000 mAh (vs. 6,800 mAh in China). The prices...

Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe wins €60.9M settlement from PSG to end legal dispute

23 February 2026 at 23:32
Kylian Mbappé's legal dispute with PSG has finally reached its end, with the Parisian side paying €60.9M to the now Real Madrid star.

Kylian Mbappé did not part ways with Paris Saint-Germain on the best terms, triggering a legal dispute between the striker and the French club. Nearly two years after the conflict began, the Real Madrid star is now set to receive €60.9 million in a settlement from his former team.

Entering the final year of his contract in 2024, Mbappé was reluctant to renew, prompting head coach Luis Enrique to sideline the French star, who struggled to adapt to the Spaniard’s system. The standoff also led PSG to stop paying portions of Mbappé’s salary, arguing he had acted against the club’s interests and failed to meet contractual expectations.

In April 2025, PSG released a statement saying they “still fail to understand why Kylian Mbappé has not taken his case to the Conseil de Prud’hommes, the only court competent to rule on the dispute with his former club.” Afterward, the forward formally brought the case before the labor court, which ultimately ruled in his favor.

On December 16 of last year, the Conseil de Prud’hommes ordered PSG to pay €60.9 million to Mbappé. Now, after issuing the payment, the Parisian club has also announced it will not file an appeal, meaning the dispute, pending any potential rulings from other bodies, will officially come to a close.

Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al Khelaifi presenting new signing Kylian Mbappe.
Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al Khelaifi presenting new signing Kylian Mbappe.

As quoted by Agence France-Presse, the club released a statement addressing the situation: “In the interest of responsibility and in order to put a definitive end to a procedure that has dragged on far too long, the club has decided not to prolong this litigation. Paris Saint-Germain is now resolutely looking toward the future, focused on its sporting project and collective success.

Breakdown of PSG’s payout

The initial claim from Mbappé’s lawyer, Delphine Verheyden, sought €55 million in unpaid wages dating back to February 2024 and covering the remaining months of his contract through June 2024. After roughly 18 months since the first demand was made, the Real Madrid forward has secured a larger total than originally requested.

With the February and March salaries already paid, PSG published on its website the full text of the ruling issued by the Conseil de Prud’hommes, including the breakdown of the €60.9 million owed:

  • €36,600,000 for the final installment of his signing bonus.
  • €17,250,000 in unpaid salaries for April, May, and June 2024.
  • €1,725,000 in vacation pay for those months.
  • €1,500,000 in ethics bonuses for April, May, and June 2024.
  • €150,000 gross in paid leave tied to the ethics-bonus arrears for those same months.

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid CF.

Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal teammate reportedly nears a Premier League return for the 2026-27 season

23 February 2026 at 22:13
Karim Benzema’s arrival at Al Hilal has been a complete success, as he has already demonstrated his imposing goal-scoring prowess. However, he could lose one of the team’s stars, who is reportedly seeking a return to the Premier League ahead of the 2026–27 season.

Following their failure to win the Saudi Pro League last season, Al Hilal targeted Karim Benzema as their marquee signing in a bid to restore competitiveness. Despite his veteran status, the Frenchman has managed to showcase his goal-scoring prowess; however, his arrival could lead to the departure of one of the team’s stars, who is reportedly seeking a return to the Premier League ahead of the 2026–27 season.

According to TEAMtalk, Darwin Núñez would be seeking an exit from Al Hilal after being left out of the Saudi Pro League despite having arrived for $74 million. As a result, the Uruguayan would be pushing for a return to the Premier League, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United reportedly the most interested. However, he could be forced to reduce his salary, as no club may be willing to pay him £400,000 per week.

Alongside the English sides, the Uruguayan is also said to be attracting interest from Atlético Madrid and Juventus. Nevertheless, both clubs could face difficulties meeting a high transfer fee, as Al Hilal may look to recover the amount they paid for Núñez — something that would not be easy for either side. Without a place in the team’s rotation, Darwin could attempt to force his exit, potentially lowering the value of a future transfer.

While Núñez is almost certain to leave Al Hilal ahead of the 2026–27 season, he would already be significantly affected from a sporting standpoint. After being unable to play in the Saudi Pro League, the Uruguayan would only have five or six matches in the AFC Champions League Elite — a very low tally for the starting striker of the national team. As a result, he could lose his role in the squad to Rodrigo Aguirre or Federico Viñas, who would arrive with competitive rhythm.

nunez al hilal
Darwin Nunez of Al Hilal celebrates after scoring

Darwin Núñez has fallen short since joining Al Hilal

Darwin Núñez, once hailed as one of the world’s most promising strikers, has faced disappointment in the Saudi Pro League. While he initially excited Liverpool fans, the Uruguayan only reached double-digit goals in the 2023-24 season. After a limited goal-scoring return, he sought a move to gain greater prominence ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Unfortunately, his performances at Al Hilal have fallen short of expectations.

Headlining a blockbuster transfer, Darwin was expected to become Al Hilal’s undisputed leader. However, he managed to play in only 24 matches, recording nine goals and five assists. In response, coach Simone Inzaghi decided to hand the starting role to Marcos Leonardo, and the arrival of Karim Benzema completely dashed his hopes. Consequently, the 26-year-old striker may leave the club without having consistent playing time to regain his best form.

Karim Benzema of Al Hilal looks on.

Gervonta Davis coach confirms comeback plan: “He’s fighting who I want him to”

23 February 2026 at 23:07

A big update has been given on the fighting future of . Davis hasn’t fought since his controversial draw with Lamont Roach Jr back in March 2025, having been involved in some serious legal issues since then. He had been scheduled to take on YouTuber-turned-boxer in November, but those problems outside of the ring led […]

The post Gervonta Davis coach confirms comeback plan: “He’s fighting who I want him to” appeared first on Boxing News.

Shane Mosley chooses between prime Mayweather and Crawford: “He’s better”

23 February 2026 at 22:10

Hall of Famer , who suffered a points defeat to in 2010, has predicted a fantasy showdown between his former foe and Terence Crawford. The two pound-for-pound legends retired with unbeaten records, having become five-division world champions, and are widely considered to be the greatest of their respective eras. Mayweather called time on his glittering […]

The post Shane Mosley chooses between prime Mayweather and Crawford: “He’s better” appeared first on Boxing News.

Amed Sportif Faaliyetler- İmaj Altyapı Vanspor FK: 1-0 (MAÇ SONUCU)

Trendyol 1. Lig'in 27. haftasında Amed Sportif Faaliyetler, İmaj Altyapı Vanspor FK'yi 1-0 yendi.

Stat: Diyarbakır

Hakemler: Ali Yılmaz, Cem Özbay, M. Ali Doğan

Amed Sportif Faaliyetler: Erce Kardeşler, Murat Uçar, Mehmet Yeşil, Syrota, Diagne, Oğuzhan Matur (Dk.85 Emrah Başsan), Cem Üstündağ (Dk. 84 Atakan Müjde), Traore (Dk.68 Tarkan Serbest), Hasani (Dk.60 Moreno), Dia Saba, Dimitrov (Dk. 68 Afena-Gyan)

İmaj Altyapı Vanspor FK: Çağlar Akbaba, Oulare (Dk.90 Medeni Bingöl), Ensar Çavuşoğlu, Jevsenak, Sabahattin Destici, Erdem Seçgin (Dk.46 Emir Bars) Mehmet Özcan, Mamah (Dk. 57 Traore), Jefferson (Dk.84 Alper Emre Demirol), Hostikka (Dk. 90 Regis), Cedric

Goller: Dk. 90+4 Afena-Gyan (Amed Sportif Faaliyetler)

Sarı kartlar: Dk. 8 Hostikka, Dk. 82 Jefferson, Jevsenak Dk. 90+6 (İmaj Altyapı Vanspor FK), Dk. 35 Traore Dk. 90+5 Afena-Gyan (Amed Sportif Faaliyetler)

Sergen Yalçın'a diz çöktürdü! Yüzde 5 şans yüzde 100 gol

Beşiktaş'ın yeni silahı Hyeon Gyu Oh, Göztepe karşısında attığı akılalmaz golle futbol dünyasını ayağa kaldırdı. Güney Kore'de de gündem oldu. Sadece %5 gol ihtimali olan bir noktadan 122 km hızla fileleri sarsan yıldız oyuncu, hem Beşiktaş tarihine geçti hem de Sergen Yalçın'ı sevincinden diz çöktürdü.

Beşiktaş’ın yeni transferi Hyeongyu Oh, siyah-beyazlı formayla sergilediği performansla sadece Türkiye’yi değil, Güney Kore’yi de ayağa kaldırdı.

Göztepe karşısında attığı akılalmaz gol ve kırdığı rekorlar, Kore basınında geniş yankı buldu. Göztepe maçında dar açıdan ve uzak mesafeden çektiği şutla fileleri sarsan Oh, istatistikleri altüst etti.

Footballist’in verilerine göre sadece %5 gol ihtimali olan bir noktadan ağları bulan oyuncu için Donga gazetesi "122 km hıza ulaşan şut" üzerinden okurlarını bilgilendirdi.

Inter Football, bu golü "Puskas ödülüne aday" olarak nitelendirirken, SBS oyuncunun 90 dakika boyunca sahada kalarak takımını ligde 4. sıraya taşıdığını vurguladı.

Oh, Beşiktaş’a adım attığı günden bu yana çıktığı 3 maçta 3 gol atarak kulüp tarihinde bir ilki başardı.

Yonhap Haber Ajansı ve Nate, Koreli forvetin bu performansıyla Beşiktaş tarihine adını yazdırdığını ve yeni rolüne hızla adapte olduğunu belirtti.

Hankook gazetesi ise Oh'un, Tammy Abraham’ın yokluğunu aratmayarak hücumda liderliği tamamen üstlendiğini yazdı.

Golün ardından stadyumdaki atmosfer ve teknik heyetin tepkisi de Kore basınının odağındaydı:

Chosun gazetesi: Teknik direktör muhteşem golden o kadar etkilendi ki dizlerinin üzerine çöktü. Tribünler 'Oh, Oh!' sesleriyle inledi.

Donga gazetesi: Sergen Yalçın, 122 km'lik bu füzeye sevinçle diz çökerek karşılık verdi.

                  

Oh'tan önce Oh'tan sonra

-Maç Başı Gol Ortalaması 1.2         2.6

-Galibiyet Serisi  İstikrarsız 3'te 3 (9 Puan)

-Lig Sıralaması          7. Sıra           4. Sıra

-Taraftar Katılımı %65 Doluluk %95 (Oh Tezahüratları ile)

Güney Kore basında geniş yer bulan Oh aslında taktiksel bir rahatlamanın göstergesi. Yalçın’ın dizlerinin üzerine çökmesi, sadece golün güzelliğine değil, imkansız bir açıdan gelen bu skorun takımın üzerindeki baskıyı bir anda kırmasına da tepkiydi. Chosun’un belirttiği gibi, Oh artık sadece bir forvet değil, Beşiktaş’ın yeni ve en tehlikeli silahı.

17 yıllık aşk bitiyor: Gelecek sezon bambaşka Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş, 17 yıllık Adidas ortaklığına son vererek dünya devi Nike ile tarihi bir anlaşmaya imza atacak. 2026-27 sezonundan itibaren geçerli olacak bu dev iş birliği, kulüp kasasına yaklaşık 15 milyon Euro kazandırırken; siyah-beyazlıları Nike'ın dünya çapındaki 'Elite' kulüpler listesine taşıyacak.

Beşiktaş camiasında tarihi bir değişim kapıda. 17 yıldır kulübün forma tedarikçiliğini üstlenen Adidas ile yollar, 2026 Dünya Kupası sonrası resmen ayrılacak. Yönetim küresel pazarlama stratejileri doğrultusunda spor giyim devi Nike ile el sıkıştı.

Edinilen bilgilere göre, Beşiktaş ile Nike arasındaki anlaşma sadece bir malzeme tedariği değil, kulüp ekonomisine nefes aldıracak mali bir iş birliği yapacak. Anlaşmanın kulübe yaklaşık 15 milyon Euro seviyesinde bir gelir sağlaması bekleniyor. Nike'ın, Beşiktaş'ı "Elite" kategori kulüpler arasına dahil ederek özel koleksiyonlar hazırlayacağı konuşuluyor.

Footy Headlines gibi uluslararası kaynakların da doğruladığı bilgilere göre, 2026-2027 sezonu formalarının tasarım süreci hakkında bazı tüyolar da gündeme gelmeye başladı.

Nike döneminde taraftarları sadece sahadaki formalar değil; Jordan serisi gibi özel sokak modası ürünlerinin ve daha geniş kapsamlı bir "lifestyle" koleksiyonunun beklediği sızan bilgiler arasında.

Nike'ın Beşiktaş için tasarım yaparken muhtemelen "Gelenek ile Modernin Birleşimi" felsefesini izleyeceğini tahmin ediliyor. Nike, özellikle büyük kulüpler için (Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona) "Elite" kategorisinde özel detaylar sunuyor. Beşiktaş için Nike'ın masasında olabilecek 3 farklı tasarım yaklaşımı konuşuluyor.

- Modern Çubuklu:

Nike, klasik çubuklu formayı genellikle asimetrik veya fırça darbesi efektleriyle yenilemeyi seviyor. Siyah ve beyaz çubukların arasında, Kartal tüyü desenlerini andıran çok ince, lazer kesim dokular görebiliriz. Nike'ın en üst segment formalarında kullandığı Dri-FIT ADV teknolojisiyle, göğüs kısmında terlemeyi önleyen özel kabartmalı bir doku Beşiktaş armasıyla birleşebilir.

- Şehir Mirası:

Nike, son yıllarda şehirlerin hikayelerini formalara taşımaya bayılıyor (Örn: Inter Milan'ın Milano haritalı formaları). 3. veya dış saha forması için İstanbul Boğazı veya Dolmabahçe Sarayı'nın mimari detaylarından ilham alan, antrasit veya "kuzgun siyahı" üzerine altın yaldızlı detaylar içeren bir tasarım görebiliriz.

Beşiktaş'ın köklerine atıfta bulunan "Vişne Çürüğü" (kırmızı öncesi renk iddiaları) veya saf siyah üzerine neon detaylar sürpriz olabilir.

- 90'lar Retro Esintisi:

Nike şu an dünya çapında 90'lı yılların logolarını ve kesimlerini geri getiriyor. 1990'lardaki o efsanevi Beşiktaş formalarını hatırlatan, geniş beyaz yakalı, kollarında siyah Nike şeritleri olan ancak dar ve atletik kesimli bir "remix" forma tasarlanabilir. Nike'ın klasik "Swoosh" yazılı eski logosunu 3. formalarda kullanması büyük bir hit olabilir.

Ceykob Mörfi: “Qarabağ” çətin rəqibdir”

23 February 2026 at 23:00

“Nyukasl”ın futbolçusu Ceykob Mörfi Çempionlar Liqasının pley-off mərhələsinin “Qarabağ”la cavab oyunundan danışıb.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandalar arasındakı cavab qarşılaşması sabah İngiltərədə baş tutacaq.

Ceykob Mörfi cavab görüşündən əvvəl təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:

“Qarabağ” əslində çətin rəqibdir. Heyətlərində 9 nömərli futbolçu Xoni Montiellə arxadan yaxşı hücumlar qururlar. Bu məqama diqqət yetirməliyik. Doğma meydanda çıxış etdiyimiz üçün öz oyun prinsiplərimizi tətbiq etməyə çalışacağıq”.

Xatırladaq ki, bu komandalar arasındakı bir həftə öncə Bakıda, Tofiq Bəhramov adına Respublika stadionunda keçirilmiş ilk qarşılaşmada qonaqlar 6:1 hesabı ilə üstün olmuşdular. Cavab oyunu isə fevralın 24-dən 25-nə keçən gecə (saat 00:00) Nyukasl şəhərində təşkil ediləcək.

Eddi Hau: “Ən yaxşı oyunumuzu “Qarabağ”a qarşı keçirmişik”

23 February 2026 at 22:30

“Nyukasl”ın baş məşqçisi Eddi Hau UEFA Çempionlar Liqasının pley-off mərhələsində “Qarabağ”a qarşı keçirəcəkləri cavab oyunundan danışıb.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandalar arasındakı cavab qarşılaşması sabah İngiltərədə baş tutacaq.

Eddi Hau cavab görüşündən əvvəl təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında görüşə yaxşı hazırlaşdıqlarını bildirib:

“UEFA Çempionlar Liqasının matçına yaxşı hazırlaşmışıq. Cari mövsüm qitənin ən nüfuzlu klub turnirində yaxşı oyunlarımız çox olub. Səfərdə “Qarabağ”a qarşı yaxşı çıxış etdik. Lakin həmin görüşdə mənim üçün tək nəticə vacib deyildi. Oyun baxımından da yaxşı mübarizə apardıq. Həmin matçda çox istəkli idik və qarşılaşmanın əvvəlindən sonuna qədər üstünlük bizim tərəfimizdə oldu. Düşünürəm ki, bu mövsüm ən yüksək səviyyəli oyunumuzu məhz “Qarabağ”a qarşı keçirmişik”.

O, cavab qarşılaşmasında da qələbə qazanmaq istədiklərini söyləyib:

“Sabahkı matç üçün uyğun olan start heyətini seçəcəyik. Birinci məqsədimiz oyunu qazanmaqdır. Eyni zamanda, futbolçuların matç ritmini qoruması da vacibdir”.

Xatırladaq ki, bu komandalar arasındakı Bakıda keçirilmiş ilk qarşılaşmada qonaqlar 6:1 hesabı ilə üstün olmuşdular. Cavab oyunu isə fevralın 24-dən 25-nə keçən gecə (saat 00:00) Nyukasl şəhərində təşkil ediləcək.

Raul Ximenes Premyer Liqada penalti rekorduna imza atdı

23 February 2026 at 22:00

“Fulhem”in futbolçusu Raul Ximenes İngiltərə Premyer Liqasında penaltidən fərqlənmək üzrə rekord müəyyənləşdirib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, hücumçu Premyer Liqanın 27-ci turunun “Sanderlend”lə səfər matçında (3:1) dubl edib və qollardan birini penaltidən vurub.

Bununla da 34 yaşlı meksikalı futbolçu çempionat tarixində 100 faizli göstərici ilə ən çox penalti vuran (13-dən 13) oyunçu olub.

O, 12 fərqli qapıçını dəqiq zərbə ilə məyus edib. Ximenes fevralın əvvəlində Yaya Turenin 11 cəhddən 11 qol rekordunu yeniləmişdi.

Raul Ximenes Meksikanın “Amerika” klubunun məzunudur. Ximenes karyerası ərzində Madrid “Atletiko”su, “Benfika”, “Vulverhempton” və “Fulhem”də çıxış edib.

“Fulhem” Ximenesi 2023-cü ilin iyul ayında “Vulverhempton”dan 6,4 milyon avro məbləğ müqabilində tamhüquqlu əsasda “bağçılar”ın düşərgəsinə qatıb.

Meksikalı futbolçunun İngiltərə klubu ilə müqaviləsinin müddəti 2026-cı ilin iyun ayının sonuna qədər qüvvədədir.

Cari mövsümdə Ximenes “Fulhem”in heyətində 32 oyuna 9 qol və 3 məhsuldar ötürmə ilə fərqlənib.

Ximenesin “Fulhem”in heyətində çıxışının ümumi mənzərəsi isə 104 oyun, 30 qol və 6 məhsuldar ötürmədən ibarətdir.

Raul Ximenes 2013-cü ilin yanvar ayında debüt etdiyi Meksika yığmasının heyətində 123 oyuna çıxıb, 44 qol vurub və 16 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.

“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 34 yaşlı meksikalı mərkəz hücumçusu Raul Ximenesin transfer dəyərini 4 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.

Serie A: Bologna vs. Udinese – Confirmed line-ups and updates

23 February 2026 at 22:47

Riccardo Orsolini and Jonathan Rowe return to the Bologna attack as Vincenzo Italiano and his squad prepare to take on Udinese in Serie A on Monday evening. 

Bologna are coming in off the back of a 1-0 win away against Brann in the first leg of their Europa League play-off round tie on Thursday evening. The Rossoblu also picked up a 2–1 win over Torino in their most recent Serie A match, which ended a run of five league matches without a win. 

Vincenzo Italiano’s side currently find themselves in 10th place on 33 points from 25 matches ahead of kick-off. 

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 15: Nikola Moro of Bologna FC 1909 celebrates a goal with team mates during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on February 15, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Nikola Moro of Bologna FC 1909 celebrates a goal with team mates during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on February 15, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Udinese were beaten 2-1 at home against Sasuolo last time out in Serie A, which means that they are currently one point and one position behind Bologna ahead of kick-off on Monday night. 

Bologna have made plenty of changes from their Europa League victory on Thursday night. Five fresh faces come in with Joao Mario, Tommaso Pobega, Riccardo Orsolini, Simon Sohm and Jonathan Rowe all returning to the starting XI in place of Nadir Zortea, Nikola Moro, Lewis Ferguson, Federico Bernardeschi and Nicolo Cambiaghi. 

Udinese have made three personnel changes after their defeat against Sassuolo, with Kingsley Ehizibue, Jakub Piotorowski and Adam Buska coming in to replace Nicolo Bertola, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp and Vakoun Bayo. 

Kick-off is due at 19.45 GMT. 

UDINE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 15: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese and Luca Lipani of Sassuolo in action during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Friuli on February 15, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese and Luca Lipani of Sassuolo in action during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Friuli on February 15, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Bologna vs. Udinese: Confirmed line-ups 

Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; J.Mario, Vitik, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Pobega; Orsolini, Sohm, Rowe; Castro. 

Subs: Ravaglia, Pessina, Helland, Moro, Bernardeschi, Casale, Ferguson, Zortea, Odgaard, Dallinga, Cambiaghi, De Silvestri.

Udinese (3-5-2): Okoye; Solet, Kabasele, Kristensen; Ehizibue, Piotrowski, Karlström, Atta, Zemura; Zaniolo, Buksa.

Subs: Nunziante, Padelli, Zarraga, Gueye, Bertola, Bayo, Arizala, Mlačić, Camara, Ekkelenkamp, Miller.

23-02-2026 19:45
MatchDay 26
Bologna
Udinese

Starting lineups

1
Goalkeeper
26
Defender
17
Defender
33
Defender
41
Defender
11
Midfielder
8
Midfielder
23
Midfielder
4
Midfielder
7
9
Attacker
40
Goalkeeper
27
33
Defender
19
28
Defender
10'
31
14
Midfielder
24
Midfielder
8
Midfielder
10
Midfielder
18
Attacker

Substitutes

10
29
16
Defender
20
Defender
13
Goalkeeper
28
6
Midfielder
21
Attacker
19
Midfielder
24
Attacker
25
Goalkeeper
5
Defender
93
Goalkeeper
32
Midfielder
1
6
Midfielder
15
Attacker
38
Midfielder
29
Midfielder
7
Attacker
20
Defender
22
Defender
13
Defender
10'

Official: Torino sack Baroni and hire immediate replacement

23 February 2026 at 21:57

Torino have officially announced that Marco Baroni has been relieved of his duties as head coach, and have already appointed a replacement on a short-term contract for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. 

Baroni leaves the club in 15th place in the Serie A table on 27 points after 26 matches. Torino currently find themselves just three points above the relegation zone. 

Baroni oversaw just one win in his final seven matches in charge of Torino, with the final straw coming in a 3-0 defeat away against Genoa on Sunday afternoon. Toro were also eliminated by Inter in the Coppa Italia quarter-final and had been beaten 6-0 by Como in Serie A in the final weeks of Baroni’s tenure. 

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Brooke Norton Cuffy of Genoa (R) scores a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Torino FC at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 22, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Brooke Norton Cuffy of Genoa (R) scores a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Torino FC at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 22, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“Torino Football Club announces that it has sacked Marco Baroni from the position of coach of the first team,” read a statement on the club website. 

“The Club thanks the coach and his staff for the activity carried out so far with commitment and fairness and wishes them the best in the continuation of their careers.” 

Torino hire D’Aversa to replace Baroni 

BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 24: Roberto D'Aversa, Head Coach of Empoli, looks on prior to the coppa Italia Semi Final match between Bologna FC and Empoli at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on April 24, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 24: Roberto D’Aversa, Head Coach of Empoli, looks on prior to the coppa Italia Semi Final match between Bologna FC and Empoli at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 24, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Torino have also announced on Monday that Roberto D’Aversa has been appointed to the role of head coach on a short-term contract until June 30, 2026. 

D’Aversa has been out of work since June 2025 following Empoli’s relegation to Serie B at the end of the 2024-25 campaign. He also has experiences with Lecce, where by coincidence he also replaced Marco Baroni, as well as Sampdoria and Parma. 

“Torino Football Club is pleased to announce that it has entrusted the management of the First Team to coach Roberto D’Aversa. The coach has signed a contract until June 30, 2026,” Torino confirmed.

Liverpool given three-man shortlist to replace Mohamed Salah ahead of a looming summer exit

23 February 2026 at 23:27

As speculation intensifies regarding Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool, fuelled by a recent spat with Arne Slot and looming interest from the Saudi Pro League, former Reds striker Emile Heskey has weighed in on the impossible task of replacing the Egyptian King.

Speaking to OLBG (quotes via The Mirror), Heskey named three players who could replace Salah, should the legendary number eleven depart Anfield this summer.

Heskey’s Mohamed Salah replacement shortlist: Kvaratskhelia, Bowen, and Pulisic

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool acknowledges the fans following the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at City Ground on...
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Heskey was quick to admit that there will no direct replacement for Salah, but he highlighted Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as his primary target.

The Georgian international, currently starring for PSG after a high-profile move from Napoli, is Heskey’s “go-to” choice for his flair and game-changing ability.

He said: “We’re talking about replacing Mohamed Salah and I think as fans you’ve got to look at something different because you can’t replace Mo Salah. I remember one season I was speaking to someone who said Mo’s had a bad season. He’d scored 25 goals! I’d love to have had that bad of a season.

“We’re talking about someone scoring 20 plus, nearly 30 goals a season for 10 years. I don’t think you can replace Mo Salah but I do like the lad from PSG, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. He would be my go-to.”

Liverpool, England Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between...
(Photo by Ryan Crockett/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)

However, the former England international also looked closer to home, suggesting West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen as a tactical alternative.

“Would Jarrod Bowen be a downgrade from Mohamed Salah? I think most players are a downgrade… but Bowen is a different type of player and he would probably help the formation because he’s going to work a little bit harder than Mo,” Heskey added

The last name on the list was former Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic. Now revitalised in Italy, Pulisic’s directness reminds Heskey of Salah’s own career path.

He suggested that, much like Salah flourished after leaving Chelsea for Serie A and returning to England, Pulisic could return to the Premier League to prove his critics wrong.

He said: “I actually quite like Christian Pulisic. He is very direct. He probably didn’t get as many goals as I would have liked him to get at Chelsea but I thought he gave defences problems.

“Obviously after a good World Cup, being at home with the pressure on him, he is definitely someone who could offer something different to Mohamed Salah or even Cody Gakpo right now.

“Mo left Chelsea to go to Italy and look at what he’s done for Liverpool. I think it’d be great to see someone like Pulisic come back into the Premier League in the same way. I’m guessing he would love to show that his time at Chelsea was just a little blip. He was only a young lad when he came over.”

Player Club Goals Assists G+A Minutes Played
Mohamed Salah Liverpool 4 6 10 1,614
Christian Pulisic AC Milan 8 2 10 962
Jarrod Bowen West Ham 8 3 11 2,328
K. Kvaratskhelia PSG 4 3 7 953

Replacing Salah’s outrageous numbers will be impossible

Salah’s consistency is virtually peerless. Replacing a player who has averaged nearly 30 goals a season for a decade is nearly impossible.

Since singing for Liverpool, Salah has broken almost every record, consistently performing season after season for 9 years.

He has recorded double digits for goals and assists every single season, accumulating 252 goals and 121 assists in 429 games across all competitions.

This season, which has been his worst ever in a Liverpool shirt has seen him score seven and assist eight so far across all competitions.

Even in his off season, the Egyptian King is expected to cross double digits for goal contributions.

Replacing someone with the outrageous numbers he has produced over the years will be impossible for the club.

 

The post Liverpool given three-man shortlist to replace Mohamed Salah ahead of a looming summer exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Ashes of the Singularity II Exclusive Interview – Lower APM, Three Factions, and the Nitrous Engine Evolved

23 February 2026 at 23:00

A winter battlefield scene in the game Ashes of the Singularity II shows large mechs and tanks exchanging fire amid explosions

Almost nine months after the game's announcement, the team behind Ashes of the Singularity II is finally ready to share more about this highly anticipated real-time strategy game sequel. A demo is available for download on Steam as part of the newly launched Next Fest, allowing players to try two of three factions, three maps, the full skirmish mode, and even 8-player multiplayer. Moreover, we have an exclusive interview with Oxide Games, diving into pretty much every major aspect of the game. The participants were Brett Norton (Head of Production), Adrian Wright (General Manager), Gabriela Leskur (Narrative and Experience Lead), […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/ashes-singularity-2-interview-scale-steam-deck-benchmark/

NACON Connect Returns Next Week, Teases New Looks at The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu, Edge of Memories, and More

23 February 2026 at 22:58

A collage promoting the 'Nacon Connect March 4th' event with gaming images, a white Xbox controller, and a logo.

Publisher Nacon will host its next Nacon Connect event next week on March 4, 2026, at 11am PT / 2pm ET / 7pm BT. A press release for the event doesn't identify how long it will be, but it does tease new looks at upcoming titles like Edge of Memories, The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu, and Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss. The press release also adds that "This key event will highlight the publisher-developer's future releases as well as the latest from its accessories department," so we know we won't just be hearing about new games from Nacon; we'll also get […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/nacon-connect-returns-next-week-edge-of-memories-the-mound-cthulhu-cosmic-abyss/

Japan Is Actually Offering Incentives to Samsung and SK Hynix to Build Memory Fabs, but the Korean Giants Are Declining the ‘Attractive’ Proposals

23 February 2026 at 22:51

An aerial view of the SK hynix semiconductor manufacturing facility with multiple large factory buildings and an

The Japanese government is eager to expand onshore production, and one way to attract investment is to offer incentives to giants like SK hynix and Samsung. Japanese Government's Support & Incentives Reportedly Reduce TCO of Memory Fabs by More than 50% The global semiconductor dynamics have evolved rapidly since nations like Japan and the US have made chip production a matter of national security. Incentives like the CHIPS Act have contributed significantly to the growth of American manufacturing, and the current Japanese administration is now looking to attract private investment as well. A report by Chosun Biz reveals that memory […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/japan-is-actually-offering-incentives-to-samsung-and-sk-hynix-to-build-memory-fabs/

Optiscaler Adds FSR 4 Support To Vulkan Titles Before AMD Could

23 February 2026 at 22:22

The image features the AMD logo with the text 'FSR4 Fidelity FX Super Resolution' and 'VULKAN' over a red, glowing

AMD is absent when gamers need its help, but no worries! Optiscaler is one step ahead, thanks to the contributors. Optiscaler Version 0.9.0-Pre10 Test Build Now Offers FSR 4 Support for Vulkan Games AMD isn't moving an inch when it comes to extending FSR 4.0 (FidelityFX Super Resolution) support. It has not just restricted FSR 4 to RDNA 4 GPUs; it has also made its availability limited to only DX12 titles. It has been nearly a year since the new upscaler from AMD was rolled out, but to this day, AMD just couldn't enable FSR 4 on Vulkan titles. Thanks […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/optiscaler-adds-fsr-4-support-to-vulkan-titles-before-amd-could/

Ubisoft Taps Senior Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Devs to Lead the Assassin’s Creed Brand Into the Future

23 February 2026 at 21:57

Various characters from different Assassin's Creed games gather in a foggy setting, featuring a samurai, hooded assassins,

With Ubisoft's massive organizational shake-up and "major reset" officially revealed last month, there have been a lot of changes at the company. Even before it was properly revealed, though, big changes had been made, with the establishment of Vantage Studios and the departure of the former head of the Assassin's Creed franchise, Marc-Alexis Côté. Today, we learned who would be replacing Côté, with three veteran Assassin's Creed developers at the helm of the franchise for the foreseeable future. The first is the new head of the brand, Martin Schelling, who has been with Ubisoft since 2003. He has worked on […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/ubisoft-taps-senior-assassins-creed-black-flag-devs-to-lead-assassins-creed-future/

Linux 7.0 launches with enablement for Intel Nova Lake, AMD Zen 6 — major kernel update expected in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS and Fedora 44 first

A major kernel update, Linux 7.0, has been officially released. Although it'll take some time to show up in various Linux distros, the kernel comes with preliminary support for AMD's upcoming Zen 6 and Intel's Nova Lake.

Google Ads support now requires account change authorization

23 February 2026 at 22:43
Auditing and optimizing Google Ads in an age of limited data

Advertisers contacting Google Ads support may now need to grant explicit authorization before they can even submit a help request — giving a Google specialist permission to access and make changes directly inside their account.

Here’s what’s happening. Users are first routed to a beta AI chat. If they opt to submit a support form instead, they must tick an “Authorisation” box. The wording allows a Google Ads specialist, on behalf of the company, to reproduce and troubleshoot issues by making changes directly in the account.

The fine print is clear. Google doesn’t guarantee results. Any adjustments are made at the advertiser’s own risk. And the advertiser remains solely responsible for the impact on campaign performance and spending.

Why we care. The required checkbox shifts more responsibility onto advertisers at a time when automation and AI already limit hands-on control. If support makes changes, the performance and spend risk still sits with the advertiser.

Between the lines. This creates a trade-off between speed and control. Granting access could accelerate troubleshooting, but it also opens the door to account-level changes that may affect live campaigns — without any assurance of improved outcomes.

The bottom line. Getting support may now mean temporarily handing over the keys — while keeping full accountability for whatever happens next.

First seen. This new caveats to getting support was spotted by PPC specialist Arpan Banerjee who shared spotting the message on LinkedIn.

Market Crashes, But This Altcoin Rallies Towards a New ATH; Are Low-Caps the Next Safe Haven?

23 February 2026 at 22:46
PIPPIN Token Price Surges 40% Today – Here’s Why It’s Rallying

The post Market Crashes, But This Altcoin Rallies Towards a New ATH; Are Low-Caps the Next Safe Haven? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

PIPPIN price is beginning to show real signs of strength after successfully flipping a former resistance zone into solid support, a shift that often signals a continuation of bullish momentum. Over the past 24 hours, the token has climbed nearly 15% to $0.7232, clearly outperforming the broader market, including the Bitcoin price, which remains under pressure. The move appears to be driven by capital rotation into higher-risk, low-cap altcoins, as large-cap tokens continue to trade in a cautious, bearish environment. 

However, the bigger question remains: can a low-cap altcoin like PIPPIN sustain this rally amid persistent fear across the broader market, and does it have enough momentum to push toward a new all-time high?

As noted, the current rally appears to be fueled largely by capital rotation, a shift that became clear when the price bounced strongly from a key support zone. Even during brief pullbacks, PIPPIN has managed to hold above its prior bearish range, showing resilience that many other tokens currently lack. If the bulls can deliver one decisive push above the final resistance zone, it could open the door for a move toward a new all-time high.  

pippin price

As the chart shows, PIPPIN is testing the upper boundary of a broadening wedge for the second time after a brief pullback. To confirm strength, the price needs to clear the resistance zone between $0.71 and $0.75. A follow-through move above $0.811 would likely push the token beyond the pattern and signal a stronger breakout phase.

The price is currently holding above the Ichimoku cloud, supporting the bullish structure, while the RSI has climbed near the upper threshold, reflecting strong momentum. A clean breakout could open the door toward $0.82 and beyond. However, if the breakout fails, the PIPPIN price may drift back toward the $0.51–$0.54 support zone. A bounce there would preserve the uptrend, while a breakdown could send PIPPIN back below $0.30.

World Liberty Financial Stablecoin USD1 Prevails Over FUD Attack

23 February 2026 at 22:15
Rep. Ro Khanna Investigates $500M UAE Investment in Trump-Linked WLFI Project

The post World Liberty Financial Stablecoin USD1 Prevails Over FUD Attack appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

On February 23, the Trump-backed decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol World Liberty Financial reported that hackers had infiltrated its ecosystem, specifically targeting its primary stablecoin, USD1. 

The coordinated attack comprised a three-pronged approach designed to depeg USD1 from the dollar, and profit from the same. 

Using co-founders’ hacked social accounts, hackers posted falsified information to manufacture fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) in the platform’s ecosystem. Thereafter, the attackers reportedly paid off crypto influencers to amplify news of the attack, making it appear worse than it actually was. Attackers then proceed to short-sell WLFI tokens in the hopes of profiting from the artificial chaos. 

A coordinated attack was launched against USD1 this morning. Attackers hacked several WLFI cofounder accounts, paid influencers to spread FUD, and opened massive $WLFI shorts to profit from the manufactured chaos.

It didn’t work.

Thanks to USD1’s sound mint-and-redeem mechanism…

— WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) February 23, 2026

WLFI stablecoin recovers shortly after FUD hit

World Liberty Financial explained that the attack failed “thanks to UDS1’s sound mint-and-redeem mechanism and full 1:1 backing.” The stablecoin experienced a temporary 0.6% deviation to $0.994 before quickly recovering close to the dollar. At press time, the stablecoin was trading at $0.9989, with an overall drop of 0.28% in the last 24h. WLFI token, ranked 29th by market cap, was trading at $0.1115 following a 0.7% 24h dip. 

USD1 price change

Source: CoinMarketCap

The DeFi platform is one among many that rely on a fully-reserved and fiat-backed mint-and-redeem stablecoin mechanism. Evidence of this is found in monthly reserve attestations, reserve composition reports, institutional partnerships, and its white paper dubbed the “Gold Paper”.

WLFI attack history and developments

Notably, this is the fourth attack aimed at the World Liberty Financial platform in the last two years. In July 2024, Dough Finance, a previous project related to the DeFi platform, lost $2.5 million to hackers. And in September 2025, “sweeper bots” exploited a vulnerability related to Ethereum’s EIP-7702 upgrade, draining wallets of millions in WLFI tokens. Two months later, a phishing campaign compromised user wallets, and the platform was forced to burn and re-allocate $22 million worth of stolen tokens.In more progressive developments, World Liberty Financial launched the World Liberty Forum, which aims to participate in shaping the cryptocurrency regulatory playground.

Wormable XMRig Campaign Uses BYOVD Exploit and Time-Based Logic Bomb

Cybersecurity researchers have disclosed details of a new cryptojacking campaign that uses pirated software bundles as lures to deploy a bespoke XMRig miner program on compromised hosts. "Analysis of the recovered dropper, persistence triggers, and mining payload reveals a sophisticated, multi-stage infection prioritizing maximum cryptocurrency mining hashrate, often destabilizing the victim

Ranji Trophy final | 'Bowled 1000 balls in a year': The making of J&K speedgun Auqib Nabi

NEW DELHI: As Jammu and Kashmir prepare for their maiden Ranji Trophy final against Karnataka in Hubbali, fast-bowling spearhead Auqib Nabi remains the calmest presence in a dressing room filled with nerves. The pacer from Sheeri village in Baramulla has been the driving force behind J&K’s dream run this season.

When J&K step onto the field on Tuesday, expectations will once again rest on Nabi’s shoulders. He has taken 55 wickets from nine matches this season — the second-highest tally — at a remarkable average of 12.72. Bowling coach P. Krishnakumar reflected on the shy pacer’s rise into a dominant force.


"If you look at his record, he has got 199 wickets in 40 games. I have been with him for the last three years and he has taken 99 wickets in the last two seasons. In this season, he's taken 50-plus wickets so far and that shows his skill level has gone to a different level now because he knows how to move the ball, bowl on different pitches and against different batters. So it's not a one-day process - it took almost one year to develop it and it began in the first year when I came into the Jammu & Kashmir team," said Krishnakumar to IANS.

A fan of Dale Steyn, Nabi made his Ranji debut in 2020 but has flourished in the past two seasons. Krishnakumar credited his bowling action as the foundation of his success.

"You see, he has a very, very good action... If you compare and look at it from a biomechanical perspective, his action is perfect... With the swing and seam he has, it becomes very difficult for the batters to get runs against Auqib."

The transformation required relentless effort.

"The first year of me being with him, it was all about the process... He bowled a thousand balls in the first year to develop his skills, master his wrist position, and his backspin... it took almost one year to change him," he said.

Nabi’s nine-wicket haul against Bengal in the semi-final, alongside a crucial 42 with the bat, underlined his all-round impact. He also produced career-best figures of 7-24 against Rajasthan and played key roles against Delhi.

"Auqib has been fantastic because taking 99 wickets in the last two seasons is unbelievable... I am sure that he will definitely get a nod in some upcoming Test series," Krishnakumar said.

Calling for national recognition, he added, "As a coach, I feel that he should be given a chance when he is performing... Taking almost 100 wickets in two years - what do you want as a player?... If somebody is performing there, I think they should definitely get into the team."

With Karnataka’s star-studded batting line-up awaiting in the final, Krishnakumar believes the occasion will not change Nabi.

"The best part about Nabi is, he's very calm in his mind... If he takes a six-wicket haul, he's still the same and that is very important," he said.

For Nabi, who once trained without proper facilities, the final is another step in an extraordinary journey — but his focus remains firmly on delivering glory for Jammu and Kashmir.

Will Bengals’ top NFL draft target make it out of Top 5?

While the Cincinnati Bengals are hard at work at the NFL’s scouting combine this week, there won’t be much that quiets the idea they have one prospect at the very top of their big board.

Caleb Downs.

The Ohio State safety is an elite prospect who would be a dream fit for a Bengals team that has been stumbling at the position since letting Jessie Bates walk. 

One problem…there’s a top-five team that sounds more than ready to make Downs the pick.

RELATED: 6 Bengals veterans who won’t be on Zac Taylor’s roster next year

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh told reporters recently that Downs is certainly someone they will consider at fifth overall, according to Josh Alper of PFT: 

"We favor Hall of Fame safeties, so if we have a chance to draft a potential future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me. We'll take the best player. When you draft that high, you take the best player. It's not a need pick, it's a best player pick because you're going for the guy that's going to be that kind of player. You're talking about a player that you would like to see someday wearing a gold jacket if possible."

One could get cynical and say this is just Harbaugh trying to coachspeak and not give anything away to other teams about the draft strategy in New York. 

But by now, everyone knows better. Downs isn’t a secret as an elite prospect. And rangy safeties who can play deep and anywhere else on the field are a must-have thing. 

It’s too bad, then, the Bengals failed to realize it before fumbling the one they had.

RELATED: Bengals' key offseason dates for NFL free agency, draft and more

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Will Bengals’ top NFL draft target make it out of Top 5?

Steelers willing to wait on Aaron Rodgers retirement decision

Another year, another wait as Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether he plans to retire lingers.

Depending on whom you listen to, Rodgers is either returning or he is gone. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler says Rodgers’ decision could take months. CBS Sports’ Aditi Kinkhabwala said she was told that the chances for a Rodgers return were “minuscule.”

But Sunday night, ESPN’s Tom Pelissero says the odds are he will be returning.

“The odds are rising that he comes back. I don’t see it being any place else. If he is going to play, I believe it’s going to be for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”

Rodgers enjoyed his time with the Steelers last year, and the team may have increased his chances of returning by hiring his former Green Bay Packers head coach, Mike McCarthy. 

One thing is certain: the Steelers, like the New York Jets and the Packers before them, seem to be willing to wait on Rodgers.

Pittsburgh talk show host Mark Madden believes the team may be willing to wait on the future Hall of Fame QB.

“They’re going to feel that they can wait because they’re in love with his name. Not the Aaron Rodgers of now, but just having Aaron Rodgers,” Madden said. “

“Their plan B is either (Will) Howard or (Mason) Rudolph. Or, more likely, just going on and getting a Kirk Cousins or — because he wants to come out of retirement— Derek Carr. You don’t have to do that right away. Nobody’s beating down a path to the doors of those guys. You can get them anytime you want. So they’re going to feel they can wait.”

They might be willing to wait, but for how long before they are forced to make a decision? 

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Steelers willing to wait on Aaron Rodgers retirement decision

English wonderkid Ajay Tavares seals Barcelona transfer

DUISBURG, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 09: Ajay Tavares of England looks on during the Men's U17 International between England and Germany at Sportschule Wedau on September 09, 2025 in Duisburg, Germany. (Photo by Frederic Scheidemann - The FA/The FA via Getty Images) | The FA via Getty Images

Barcelona have finally clinched the signing of highly-rated English youngster Ajay Tavares from Norwich City.

Tavares undertook a medical on Monday after jetting out to Catalunya and the transfer has now been announced.

🤝 Acord per a la incorporació del jugador 𝗔𝗷𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 al Juvenil A del Barça procedent del Norwich City

🆕 Acuerdo para la incorporación de Ajay Tavares al Barça. El jugador procede del Norwich City#FCBMasia 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/bW9cesdD9I

— FC Barcelona – Masia (@FCBmasia) February 23, 2026

The deal has been in the works for a little while but had been held up by bureaucratic issues. However, the the requisite paperwork has now been completed, FIFA are happy, and Tavares is a Barcelona player.

The 16-year-old is an exciting winger who has been playing for Norwich’s Under-18 teams. He holds a Portuguese passport which has allowed him to move to Barcelona before he turns 18, per Sport.

Tavares will start off with Juvenil A but will be hoping he can get some minutes with Juliano Belletti’s side Barcelona Atletic.

The teenager is the latest youngster to join the club following a winter window that saw Hamza Abdelkarim, Juwensley Onstein and Patricio Pacifico arrive.

Barcelona are also thought to be hoping to land Jesse Bisiwu as they aim to continue to bring in the most exciting young talents in the game.

Bills news: 2026 NFL Scouting Combine begins Monday

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 25: General manager Brandon Beane of the Buffalo Bills speaks at the podium during the 2025 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NFL Scouting Combine serves as a valuable tool as teams continue to do their homework on the best college football prospects available in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The combine is an important opportunity for players and front office staff alike, as the prospects can showcase their skills while general managers and coaches can sit down and learn more about the personalities of these NFL hopefuls through sit-down interviews.

This year’s scouting combine starts today and runs through March 2, with on-field workouts running Feb. 26 to March 1 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.

Today’s edition of Buffalo Rumblinks leads off by explaining the key things to know about the combine, including when president of football operations Brandon Beane and new Bills head coach Joe Brady will address the media.

Previewing the NFL scouting combine

For the first time in nine years, the Bills will bring a different head coach to the scouting combine, as Joe Brady, 36, takes the reins for Sean McDermott, who was fired following Buffalo’s 33-30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round.

This year’s NFL Scouting Combine will feature over 300 athletes going through on-field drills like the popular 40-yard dash, along with the vertical jump, broad jump, 10-yard split, three-cone drill, 20-yard shuttle, and bench press (at 225 pounds).

Players began arriving in Indianapolis on Sunday while team interview with players get underway today.

Beane is set to meet with the media at 2 p.m. EST on Tuesday, Feb. 24, with Brady to follow immediately afterwards.

Even more Bills news

Discussing whether Super Bowl-winning linebacker Nakobe Dean (pictured below) would make sense to bring in via free agency. Plus, with Alec Anderson back in Buffalo, we examine whether fellow restricted free agent Ryan Van Demark could be next; and identify the two suspects accused of vandalizing the Bills new stadium.

Buffalo Bills articles recently featured on Buffalo Rumblings

Lisandro Martinez to miss Everton game due to injury

Lisandro Martinez to miss Everton game due to injury
Lisandro Martinez to miss Everton game due to injury

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez will miss his side’s meeting with Everton later this evening due to a calf injury.

Martinez has started every game under Michael Carrick, forming a solid partnership with Harry Maguire.

However, according to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, he will not be available for selection against Everton due to a suspected calf issue.

More to follow…

Adam Scott pulls out of Cognizant Classic, deals tourney another blow

PALM BEACH GARDENS — The Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches continues to lose significant players.

Add Adam Scott, fresh off a fourth-place finish at the Genesis Invitational, to the list of player who have withdrawn from the tournament that starts Feb. 26 at PGA National.

Scott, whose world ranking jumped 19 spots to No. 52, was set to return to the event for the first time since 2021. Genesis marked his first top 10 finish in two years.

Scott will be replaced by Chan Kim.

Adam Scott plays his shot from the second tee during the final round of the 2026 Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club.

The Cognizant also lost its two highest ranked players. Jupiter's Ben Griffin, ranked No. 11, and Jacob Bridgeman, who surged to No. 20 in the Official World Golf Rankings after winning the Genesis Invitational, withdrew earlier in the day.

Jackson Suber takes Griffin's spot and Lanto Griffin replaces Bridgeman.

The field now includes just one top 30 player in the rankings, No. 26 Ryan Gerard. Already suffering because it follows the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and Genesis Invitational and comes before the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship, the Cognizant field will include eight of the world's top 50.

That, though, does not include Jupiter's Brooks Koepka, Billy Horschel and Delray Beach's Gary Woodland. They all are popular figures on the Tour who are not in the top 50.

Tom D'Angelo is a senior sports columnist and reporter for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at tdangelo@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Adam Scott latest significant name to withdraw from Cognizant Classic

Florida basketball soars into top 10 of AP Top 25 rankings this week

March Madness is quickly approaching and Florida basketball is peaking at just the right time.

Riding a seven-game winning streak, the Gators find themselves back in the AP Top 25's top 10 this week for the first time since mid-November. After beating the Ole Miss Rebels on the road this weekend, Todd Golden's gang is up five spots in the poll at No. 7, sitting between the No. 6 UConn Huskies and No. 8 Purdue Boilermakers.

Those are the exact same conditions in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll's update released on Monday. The Orange and Blue is also among the NCAA Tournament selection committee's top 16 seeds, cracking the top 10 at No. 9.

SEC schools in AP Top 25 after Week 16

The Southeastern Conference added a school to its tally this week with the Tennessee Volunteers returning to the top 25 at No. 22. Otherwise, Florida maintains its dominance over the SEC at No. 7, followed by the Alabama Crimson Tide who moved up eight spots to No. 17, and the Arkansas Razorbacks who remain ranked No. 20.

The Vandbilt Commodores fell six spots and are just barely hanging on at No. 25, while the Texas A&M Aggies earned just a trio of votes this week to wrap up the league's representation in the poll.

AP Top 25 Men's Basketball rankings after Week 16

  1. Duke
  2. Arizona
  3. Michigan
  4. Iowa State
  5. Houston
  6. UConn
  7. Florida
  8. Purdue
  9. Gonzaga
  10. Illinois
  11. Virginia
  12. Nebraska
  13. Michigan State
  14. Kansas
  15. St. John's
  16. Texas Tech
  17. Alabama
  18. North Carolina
  19. BYU
  20. Arkansas
  21. Miami (OH)
  22. Tennessee
  23. St. Louis
  24. Louisville
  25. Vanderbilt

Others receiving votes:

Wisconsin 47, Saint Mary's 30, Villanova 15, Miami 10, Utah St. 8, NC State 7, SMU 4, Texas A&M 3, Iowa 3, UCF 3, High Point 2, Stephen F Austin 2, Navy 1.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida basketball enters top 10 in AP Top 25 rankings

Marlins third base candidate Graham Pauley shut down and has MRI for right forearm tightness

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) — Graham Pauley's bid to start at third base for the Miami Marlins is on hold due to right forearm tightness.

Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said Pauley had an MRI on Monday morning and has been shut down pending the results.

Pauley is a left-hander hitter and the soreness is in his throwing arm.

Pauley was expected to compete with Connor Norby at third base but has not appeared in a spring game due to the persistent tightness in his forearm.

Pauley, 25, hit .224 with four homers in 161 at-bats as a rookie in 2025.

McCullough told MLB.com some discomfort at the start of spring training is not unusual for players. McCullough said Pauley's forearm tightness "just didn’t get any better over the course of a couple days. ... He’s going to be shut down from baseball until we get a clearer picture on what’s happening.”

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Yildiz ‘furious at Spalletti? What’s behind the Turkish report

Yildiz ‘furious at Spalletti? What’s behind the Turkish report
Yildiz ‘furious at Spalletti? What’s behind the Turkish report

A famous source in the Turkish media reported a spat between Luciano Spalletti and Juventus star Kenan Yildiz. So is there any truth behind this story?

The Bianconeri have been enduring a woeful slump, suffering four defeats and a draw in their latest five appearances across all competitions.

Curiously, this skid coincided with Yildiz’s physical struggles. The 20-year-old was replaced at the interval during the 4-1 win in Parma, and then missed the Coppa Italia defeat to Atalanta.

The youngster returned to the fold afterwards, but he looked far from his best.

Kenan Yildiz wasn’t happy with his exit against Como

On Saturday, Yildiz was in the starting lineup against Como. But aside from a few flashes, he failed to inspire, as the Bianconeri went on to suffer a 0-2 defeat to Cesc Fabregas’ men.

By the 83rd minute, the case appeared to be already lost, so Spalletti opted to replace the Turkiye international with Vasilije Adzic.

Kenan Yildiz and Luciano Spalletti (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The two men exchanged a few words, as the forward was apparently unhappy with his exit. For his part, the manager downplayed the whole episode while praising the player for his relentless desire to contribute on the pitch, even when he was struggling with a calf issue.

Afterwards, Turkish portal Fanatik reported that Yildiz had an angry outburst, as he was furious with the coach’s decision.

False alarm on Spalletti & Yildiz spat

As Tuttosportexplains, the sensationalised version reported in Turkiye falls in the ‘fake news’ category, as the two men never had any spat.

The duo have swiftly built a great rapport, with Spalletti insisting that he cares for Yildiz ‘like a son’.

The Turin-based newspaper describes it as a Turkish attempt to further destabilise Juventus ahead of Wednesday’s decisive second leg against Galatasaray in the Champions League play-off round.

That being said, the Istanbul-based giants already have a massive advantage, having won 5-2 in the first leg, so they only need to avoid a collapse at the Allianz Stadium to book their place in the Round of 16.

Carlos Alcaraz states what he thinks is the best thing about being a tennis player

Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Carlos Alcaraz continues to dominate men’s tennis right now, which is fitting given his adoration of the sport.

Alcaraz has played two ATP tournaments in the 2026 season so far; the Australian Open and the Qatar Open.

And the Spanish superstar has won both of those tournaments, currently boasting a 12-0 win-loss record this year.

Shortly after his latest title at the Qatar Open, Alcaraz shared insight into his relationship with the sport itself.

Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Carlos Alcaraz loves being a professional tennis player

Alcaraz was asked for the best part of being a professional tennis player, with money, fame and his passion for the sport offered to him as potential factors.

“Yeah, I would say it’s a mix of everything, I’m not going to lie,” he replied.

“I think, let’s say, it’s about the love of the sport, the love of what you’re doing.

“Obviously it’s my job, I get paid for playing, for going to the tournaments, winning.

“But I think there is no better feeling of doing whatever you love. I think that’s what I feel.

“Obviously, the fame comes with it, the money comes with it, but for me the most important thing is that I’m just living the life that I just love.”

As ever, it was a mature and measured response from Alcaraz, who at 22 continues to show maturity beyond his years on and off the court.

Photo by Tnani Badreddine/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Photo by Tnani Badreddine/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

Carlos Alcaraz ‘really proud’ after maiden Qatar title

Despite his youth, Alcaraz has already achieved so much in tennis, including the career Grand Slam.

He became the youngest man to achieve the feat when he added the Australian Open title to his six other Grand Slam titles.

The Spaniard boasts two titles at each of the other three major tournaments, while he also has an Olympic silver medal to his name.

The 22-year-old just added more history to his career in Doha, winning the Qatar Open for the very first time.

Reacting to the accomplishment, he said: “Well, it feels great.

“It feels like the job is finished right now, which is great.

“It was a great week, on and off the court.

“Seeing myself accomplish all the goals that I set up for myself at the beginning of the week, it makes me really proud of myself and about my team.

“Yeah, lifting the trophy in Doha for the first time, it feels amazing.”

He now boasts ATP titles in 14 different countries, which is a record he can’t build upon when he takes on Indian Wells next.

But success is very much on the cards considering the world number one’s form and the fact that he won Indian Wells in 2023 and 2024.

READ MORE:Novak Djokovic reacts after Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo makes Winter Olympic history

Spring Training Game Thread #4: Milwaukee Brewers (0-3) @ San Diego Padres (1-2)

Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Abner Uribe fields a ball during spring training workouts Sunday, February 15, 2026, at American Family Fields of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona. | Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Cactus League Brewers are back in action and looking to get off the schneid this afternoon after losing both games in split-squad action yesterday. They’ll travel to Peoria to take on the San Diego Padres.

Today’s lineup features a balance of regulars and minor leaguers, as Jackson Chourio, Joey Ortiz, Andrew Vaughn, and Gary Sánchez make up the top of the lineup but Jett Williams, Luis Lara, and Eddys Leonard—who has not appeared in a Cactus League game yet—bring up the rear. In the middle are two guys likely to figure into the Brewers’ plans as bench players this season, Brandon Lockridge and David Hamilton. The Padres also have a couple of established big leaguers at the top of their lineup, most notably Fernando Tatís Jr., who will bat third as the designated hitter.

Plenty of guys in the major league bullpen conversation will appear today, as Easton McGee is today’s listed starting pitcher with Abner Uribe, Craig Yoho, Drew Rom, and Jacob Waguespack scheduled to follow. Lefty JP Sears will be the first pitcher out for the Padres.

Another game you can watch for FREE on https://t.co/eycfmE2vgm

📻: https://t.co/eycfmE2vgm
📻: WTMJ 620#ThisIsMyCrewpic.twitter.com/kx9kqNTHjz

— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) February 23, 2026

Monday matchup. pic.twitter.com/auIiKkUtNZ

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) February 23, 2026

As noted in the post above, today’s game is available for free on brewers.tv, and it’ll also be shown on MLB Network for those out of market. You can also hear it on the Brewers Radio Network.

Paris FC: Moustapha Mbow pays tribute to Stéphane Gilli

Paris FC: Moustapha Mbow pays tribute to Stéphane Gilli
Paris FC: Moustapha Mbow pays tribute to Stéphane Gilli

Moustapha Mbow sends a heartfelt message to Stéphane Gilli

Paris FC: Moustapha Mbow pays tribute to Stéphane Gilli

On his X account, Senegalese international Moustapha Mbow paid tribute to Stéphane Gilli.

After Stéphane Gilli was dismissed by Paris FC this weekend, he received a touching tribute from Moustapha Mbow. The Senegalese center-back made sure to thank his former coach.

"Coach, I really wanted to take the time to say thank you. Thank you for everything you brought me, for your patience, your demands, your outbursts that stung at the time but helped me grow, and above all for believing in me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything," wrote the Senegalese defender on X.

Newcastle United hold firm on Tino Livramento amid expected revival in Manchester City interest

Newcastle United hold firm on Tino Livramento amid expected revival in Manchester City interest
Newcastle United hold firm on Tino Livramento amid expected revival in Manchester City interest

Manchester City are once again expected to face a stern test when it comes to efforts to sign Tino Livramento from Newcastle United, according to new reports.

The Magpies are keen to tie the 23-year-old down to a new contract and make him one of the highest-paid players in Eddie Howe’s star-studded squad, despite suffering multiple injury setbacks so far this season. 

Having twice recovered from a knee injury, Livramento hobbled off against Bournemouth with a hamstring problem in a breathtaking FA Cup tie last month, which ended 7-6 in favour of the Magpies on penalties. 

The defender is one of three long-term absentees for Howe at present, in a squad that has been weakened considerably after Bruno Guimaraes and Fabian Schar – who underwent ankle surgery recently – were both ruled out until April.

Livramento is expected back in a matter of weeks, while his contract in the north-east is set to run until 2028 and discussions have been held over fresh terms as links with Manchester City continue to intensify, as reported by Football Insider. 

Eddie Howe will certainly not want Tino Livramento to leave his squad any time soon given Kieran Trippier’s contract expires in the summer and at 35 years of age, it is unlikely he will continue in the Premier League or at the highest level for much longer. 

Returning with plenty of time to spare, Livramento will want to better his credentials ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup while fighting for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad alongside Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold. 

Livramento featured 45 times for Newcastle last season and played a major role in achieving a fifth-place finish in the Premier League. He also started in the final of the Carabao Cup in March last year, where the Magpies secured their first domestic trophy for 70 years. 

And by achieving such a feat – and a first major trophy since 1969 – Livramento’s transfer value increased drastically. It is no surprise that Newcastle do not want to offload the defender, but if they are it would take a huge fee, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke. 

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, he said, “Newcastle don’t want to lose him, there’s no doubt about that, they want to keep hold of Livramento.

“There have been ongoing talks over a new deal, but nothing is agreed as yet, so that would maybe give Man City a bit of hope that they maybe could be lured away.

“It would take a huge offer I think for Newcastle to even consider selling him. He’s under contract until 2028, so they’re in no rush to sell. Eddie Howe wants to keep hold of Livramento and build his team around him, because he is such an exciting player and someone with huge potential.”

Manchester City have been monitoring the defender closely and after the signings of Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo, sporting director Hugo Viana – who took on the role permanently last summer – has not shown signs of stopping anytime soon. 

Bayern Munich skipper Manuel Neuer racing to get fit in time for Borussia Dortmund showdown

BREMEN, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 14: Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Munich warms up prior to the Bundesliga match between SV Werder Bremen and FC Bayern München at Weserstadion on February 14, 2026 in Bremen, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer injured himself in the 3-0 win over Werder Bremen and had to come off for Jonas Urbig. While Neuer was initially expected to sit out for three weeks, the 39-year-old is back in training doing light training with the possibility of him playing against Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker a real possibility.

Manuel Neuer returned on the pitch today and completed a 30-minute session. He did most of the exercises on the ground – and always under the close supervision of rehab coach Simon Martinello. Neuer will gradually increase the workload in the coming days. Being fit in time for Dortmund is now a possibility.

– Bild as captured by X account @iMiaSanMia

Having Neuer back is great and all, but this is just classic Bayern rushing injuries which is the last thing the club needs what with injuries creeping back in (Alphonso Davies). Plus, Urbig can totally handle a high-stakes match like this.

Horizon League recap Feb. 16-22: Green Bay wins while Gottlieb out

NCAA Basketball: Green Bay at Ohio State

One week remains in the Horizon League’s regular season. Wright State has already clinched at least a share of the title, but fell to the defending champs Sunday, leaving the door open for someone else to join it. The penultimate week, as each week this season has done, brought a load of chaos, and there remains a lot to be decided in the final week.

Here is a recap of the week.

Horizon League Standings

1. Wright State (13-5)
2. Robert Morris (11-7)
    Oakland (11-7)
    Detroit Mercy (11-7)
5. Green Bay (11-8)
6. Purdue Fort Wayne (10-8)
7. Northern Kentucky (9-9)
8. Youngstown State (8-10)
9. Milwaukee (7-12)
10. Cleveland State (6-12)
11. IU Indianapolis (3-15)

Wins of the week

Green Bay 73, Oakland 68

Green Bay was a hot topic all week leading up to this game, but not necessarily because the two were set to meet separated by less than a game in the standings and with conference-tournament seeding on the line. It was because the Phoenix were without their head coach in this game, as Doug Gottlieb was suspended for the game after he criticized officials in a postgame rant. When these teams met last month in Green Bay, Oakland dominated, taking advantage of an undersized frontcourt and pushing the Phoenix down low. Green Bay responded in a big way this time around. Isaac Garrett had 17 points for Oakland, but Tuburu Naivalurua and Michael Houge were limited to a combined 14 shot attempts and 16 points, allowing the Phoenix to keep the game in check. Justin Allen had a huge game for Green Bay, scoring a team-high 21 points and adding five assists. C.J. O’Hara made just three field goals, but shot 9 for 10 on free throws, adding 16 points and keeping pressure on the Oakland bigs all night. Caden Wilkins also caught fire, knocking down four of his five 3-point attempts to give the Phoenix an additional offensive boost. In an emotional performance, coached by Kerry Rupp, whom Green Bay clearly rallied around, the Phoenix got a major victory in the closing stretch. 

Detroit Mercy 74, Green Bay 70

With Green Bay riding high off its statement win over Oakland, it was Detroit Mercy that stole the momentum to earn a huge win on Sunday. 2012-13 was the last time the Titans won 11 games in Horizon League play. That changed with Sunday’s win. Orlando Lovejoy was absolutely unstoppable, scoring a game-high 33 points along with five assists. Green Bay is smaller in the frontcourt than most units and Lovejoy took full advantage, getting to the line 12 times, connecting on 11. Lance Stone was the only other Titan in double figures with 10 points, but 74 was enough to get the job done thanks to a strong defensive effort. For Green Bay, four starters scored in double figures, but it got just six points combined from the other four players who logged minutes, just not enough to win a game against a team in the upper portion of the conference. Detroit Mercy wraps up the week in a tie for second place and seems to be in prime position to host a game in the league tournament. A year ago, these two teams were meeting as two of the worst in the conference and Sunday they met in a game with pivotal implications, college basketball at its finest.

Robert Morris 81, Wright State 68

The defending champions are the hottest and maybe most dangerous team in the league right now. Although the roster doesn’t feature hardly anyone who contributed to last season’s NCAA Tournament appearance, having a coach and point guard who have won the league are two key traits the Colonials still possess. On Sunday, it was on full display. In a game on national television, Robert Morris and Wright State met, just over two weeks after the Colonials upset the Raiders. In Sunday’s win, Nikolaos Chitikoudis and DeSean Goode scored 17 and 16 points, respectively. Ryan Prather Jr. struggled shooting, but logged six assists. Freshman Darius Livingston continued his late-season breakout, exploding for 24 points and Ta’Zir Smith also tallied double figures with 15 off the bench. Wright State’s offense has been extremely balanced all season and while three players reached double figures Sunday, Robert Morris forced 14 turnovers and made it difficult for the Raiders to keep pace. A double-digit halftime lead was maintained for the final 20 minutes as the defending champs posted a championship-level effort to jump into a tie for second in the league standings.

Notable results

Defeating IU Indianapolis wasn’t a gaudy win for Wright State, but it moved the Raiders within a win of an outright league championship. Unfortunately for Clint Sargent, his group couldn’t get the job done against Robert Morris on national television Sunday, but it has two opportunities to win the league this upcoming week. It will, however, have to fend off at least one of two of the better backcourts in the league to take the crown outright, with matchups with Purdue Fort Wayne and Northern Kentucky, both on the road, looming.

With some teams set to play two games in the final week, others just one, the path to a home first-round game is there for seven teams. Northern Kentucky sits a game and a half back of fifth entering the week, and is the team furthest down in the standings with an opportunity, albeit a long-shot. Wright State will host for sure, and is a win away from the championship, but Robert Morris, Oakland, Detroit Mercy, Green Bay, Purdue Fort Wayne and Northern Kentucky are all within two games in the standings, and any four of that group could be the other first-round hosts.

After falling to Green Bay on Friday night, Oakland snapped out of a four-game funk, getting back in the win column with a 81-70 win over Milwaukee Sunday. Brody Robisnon had 20 points and nine assists alongside Tuburu Naivalurua’s 23 points to take down a depleted Panthers group. The Golden Grizzlies are by far the most battle tested against the nation’s best amongst teams in the league, but to earn the opportunity to take on a high-major in an NCAA Tournament setting, they must play better than they have the past few weeks. Oakland has the talent to make a push for the league’s auto-bid, but it hasn’t played well lately, so it will be interesting to see how Greg Kampe’s crew closes.

Youngstown State flashed what makes it a dangerous team that could spoil the quest for an NCAA Tournament berth for anyone in the league. Cris Carroll put up 26 points, six rebounds and six assists, and was aided by Tae Blackshear and Vlad Salaridze who combined for 42 off the bench, as the Penguins beat Cleveland State 106-82. There was a time when Youngstown State looked like the best team in the Horizon League and while it is far from even being labeled a dark horse in the league, a matchup with Carroll isn’t something any team is going to take lightly in the postseason.

NFL draft expert: There isn't a 'wrong answer' for Saints in Round 1

Whoever they pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints have a great opportunity to make life easier for Tyler Shough. The second-year quarterback impressed across nine starts as a rookie but the team still owns a top-10 pick. Some great prospects are expected to be available when they go on the clock at eighth overall. NFL Media draft expert Daniel Jeremiah linked the Saints to Notre Dame star running back Jeremiyah Love in his first mock draft. He had them going with playmaking USC wideout Makai Lemon in his second projection.

"That would be a great decision to have if you have a guy like Makai Lemon there and then Jeremiyah Love," Jeremiah said on a pre-combine conference call. "So I wanted to see what it would look like there and try and find a compliment to Chris Olave. I think (Lemon) would catch a bazillion balls in that offense from that quarterback with Kellen calling plays. ... So that was, you know, that was kind of looking at a different option there. I don't know that there's a wrong answer."

What is it about these two prospects that is so appealing? Lemon has been surging to the forefront of Saints mock drafts in recent weeks, and for his part, Jeremiah is a big fan: "Think (Moore) would know exactly how to use Makai Lemon and he'll give you easy completions for a young quarterback. He can work in the middle of the field. He's tough. He can help you out if you need him to dig out a linebacker in the run game as well."

But if he likes Love so much, why did Jeremiah pivot from the running back to the wide receiver? He explained: "There is something to, okay, when the team is ready to really take off, then you drop in the running back. You utilize all of his carries. They all matter and they're helping you, you know, get in the playoffs and chase the championship. I think there's some other pieces to fill before you say that, you know, rocket's ready to take off there in New Orleans. So I kind of like the idea of letting Makai Lemon grow with a young quarterback and they can play together for seven, ten years or so. I just thought that would be a fun fit."

Whether they go with a receiver or a rusher, the goal is the same -- get another weapon for Shough to lean on. Depending on the team's moves in free agency (bolstering the offensive line and signing other pass-catchers, or another running back) they could be set up to comfortably take Love and chase a playoff berth in the weak NFC South. Alvin Kamara isn't getting younger and he's playing in the last year of their contract. No team has had a less explosive run game over the last five years than New Orleans. Lemon could be a fun compliment to Olave, but at some point the Saints must inject real game-changing talent to their backfield. Maybe they'll find a way to do that before the draft gets here in late April.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Daniel Jeremiah: Saints don't have a 'wrong answer' in 2026 NFL Draft

Chasing Virat Kohli, carrying Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan’s goals in T20 World Cup

TimesofIndia.com in Kandy: In a T20 World Cup where Pakistan’s campaign has lurched between frustration and uncertainty, Sahibzada Farhan has quietly become their most reliable presence. With 220 runs to his name and at least two matches still to come, Farhan finds himself in rare territory, one that inevitably invites comparisons, records, and pressure.

At the pre-match press conference, he was asked a million dollar question on whether he is aiming to take down Virat Kohli's 12-year-old record as leading run-getter in the T20 World Cup. Kohli amassed 319 runs in the 2014 edition and 296 runs in 2022. His 319-run tally is still the highest by any batter in a single T20 World Cup.


“I don’t look at stats. Even when I perform, people tell me how many runs I’ve scored,” he told reporters. “If you start thinking about records, it becomes an added burden. I want to finish well. I want Pakistan to be proud.”

That philosophy has shaped Farhan’s T20 World Cup so far. In a tournament where rain washed away momentum and Pakistan’s batting order repeatedly collapsed under pressure, Farhan has provided something invaluable: time at the crease. While critics have questioned strike rates and tempo, a conversation that has followed Pakistan’s top order for years, Farhan pushed back gently but firmly. “This is international cricket. You can’t start hitting from ball one every time. You have to read the pitch,” he explained. “If the ball is in my range, I attack. Once I get momentum, I try to take it long so the team can benefit.”

Those words also reflect Pakistan’s broader dilemma. The bowlers, especially the spinners, have largely delivered. The batting, however, has struggled to keep pace, particularly against top opposition. Farhan did not shy away from acknowledging that reality. “Yes, we have collapsed in batting,” he admitted. “In T20 cricket, your top three or four have to score runs. We haven’t done that consistently. But the boys are working hard, and they are focused.”



Despite the scrutiny, Farhan spoke with notable calm about the pressure surrounding senior players and teammates. Whether it was Saim Ayub’s lean run or the criticism aimed at experienced campaigners, Farhan stressed belief and roles over panic. “Not every player can perform in every match. Everyone has their own role,” he said. “Saim is an impact player. He believes in himself, and that belief matters in T20 cricket.”

Attention also turned to upcoming challenges, including facing elite pacers. Asked about squaring up against England's Jofra Archer, Farhan was refreshingly blunt. “It’s not a big deal,” he shrugged. “We’ve faced him before. He will plan for me, but I have planned for him too. That’s international cricket.”



What perhaps stood out most was Farhan’s clarity amid chaos. Rain delays, points-table permutations, decisions at the toss, none seemed to interest him. “Those calls are for the captain and coach,” he said. “Our job is to prepare and play according to the conditions.”

As Pakistan head deeper into the Super Eight phase, Farhan’s runs carry added weight. Each innings inches him closer to Kohli’s historic World Cup tally, even if he insists that the numbers mean little. Yet records means a lot to the players, especially in the subcontinent.

Whether he reaches the mark or not, one thing is clear. In a T20 World Cup filled with noise around Pakistan’s batting, Sahibzada Farhan has chosen the quietest route, scoring runs, absorbing pressure, and letting his bat talk.

Everton 0-1 Manchester United: Live | George and Beto on late

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 10: A general interior view of match action at Hill Dickinson Stadium on February 10, 2026 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Live Blog

78’ – Everton corner, partly cleared, Gana blasts a ball off Sesko for another corner.
Beto replaces Iroegbunam, KDH corner cleared, falls to Gueye who miscues his volley wide.

76’ – George with a slashing run wins a corner. KDH ball into the box claimed again by Lammens.
Everton have the ball and ref stops play for a United sub, who has not even left the bench yet! Pickford has something to say about it and is booked for dissent! Blues, I kid you not, the bizarre refereeing continues here.
Mbeumo goes off for Mazraoui.

73’ – Tyrique George replaces Harrison Armstrong. Everton immediately win a corner on the left. Garner puts it into the six-yard box, but Lammens claims confidently.
Blues frustrated, as they did appear to be in ascendancy when they conceded there.

72’ – A United counter and Mbeumo holds off Keane for long enough to set up Sesko who is obviously faster than Tarkowski, and the United sub slots home, 1-0 to United. Too easy, and the Blues are caught out with their high line.

71’ – Ndiaye wriggles away beautifully and slides a ball across the box.. Garner attempt blocked by Cunha.

69’ – Armstrong wins a corner off Fernandes and more argy-bargy between the pair, ref over to defuse things. Garner deep corner, Tarky hooks it back into the box and Lammens collects.

67’ – KDH fouled in midfield, Garner puts the ball in the box, tame header taken by the goalie.

64’ – KDH shot in the box blocked by Dalot, corner on the right. KDH lined up to take, and JB barged over by Dalot. Ref England talking to both of them, and JB goes right beside Lammens again. Lammens punches it clear, Gueye shot into the crowd is blocked.
United break through Cunha at pace and as Everton are scrambling to defend the forward slips on the slick surface and the danger passes.

60’ – Has there ever been a zero-sum player like Iroegbunam? All the good work he does with his tackles and interceptions is undone by his abysmal distribution.

57’ – The flopping is getting just ridiculous. Now Mbeumo runs into Tarky and falls down like he’s been mown down by a tractor-trailer. Where are the yellow cards for diving Mr Darren England, we ask.
Change for United, with Sesko on for Amad, this will see the striker go in the middle and Mbeumo out wide for JB to deal with.

55’ – Dalot gets behind JB but his ball into the middle is poor and Keane can clear. Whew.

51’ – Multiple miscues as first Gana and KDH can’t clear, then Tarky makes a hash of clearing the cross and Mbeumo fires a shot from three yards out over the bar! Whew.

48’ – Shaw falls down after Garner touches him and again Hill Dickinson is irate. You wouldn’t have thought a chubby little b*stard like Shaw would go down that easily but that’s football for you nowadays.

46’ – Gana gets us started, no changes to either side.
Big up-and-under creates pressure for the Blues, Ndiaye centres for KDH, who finds Armstrong for a shot. He hits it low but it’s too close to Lammens and he gathers.

Halftime Thoughts – Quality desperately lacking in the final third for the Blues. They haven’t been wholly convincing in their own half either, with United creating a few chances for themselves too.

45+3’ – Halftime whistle goes with much further ado. Everton nil, Manchester United nil at the break.

45+1’ – Maguire with a pick play on Branthwaite that springs Amad, ref doesn’t see it though. Cross is cleared by the Blues.

45’ – Amad goes down easily and a foul is given, KDH disagrees and the howls of derision will tell you how the Blues feel about it.
Three minutes to be added on.

42’ – Everton steal the ball again and counter with speed, Ndiaye finds Garner and he wins a corner on the right. KDH inswinger, Lammens unconvincing punch, and now KDH wins a throw on the right. Blocked cross allows United to counter and long ball down the middle pierces the backline, but Pickford is quick to come out and clear.

40’ – Shaw drags Ndiaye down, foul by the touchline. Lovely ball into the box by Garner, but no Everton shirts close to it.

38’ – Gana fouled by Amad and Everton have a freekick about thirty-plus yards out, central position. Garner tries a shot directly, but Lammens does well to collect. A dipping, bouncing shot would have caused more trouble.

35’ – Better the last few minutes with both JB and Garner pushing up adding bodies in possession. For not the first or last time tonight, Iroegbunam steals the ball and then promptly gives it back away with a poor pass.
Dalot finds Mbeumo with a shot from distance, goes wide.

30’ – Branthwaite tugs back Amad to give up a freekick on the edge of the box. Fernandes over the ball, low into the box and cleared, rebound from Dalot is volleyed and not very far wide of the post.
Maguire goes down easily from the goakick and once again the crowd howls in protest at referee Darren England’s decision.

29’ – Good passing from the Blues finds Barry out wide on the left, he centres for KDH and his backheel for an overlapping Gana is just cut out. Nice move. The crowd is definitely into it.

26’ – Lovely diagonal from Keane falls beyond Shaw but Ndiaye can’t control it. Ili hasn’t been too involved so far but gets the ball again and is swarmed by five red shirts, wants a foul but gets nothing.

22’ – At the quarter mark of the game and Barry fouled on the edge of the attacking third. Possession is 73% to the visitors. Barry is off getting the strapping on his left shoulder adjusted, and Garner’s freekick is cleared.

20’ – United allowed to set up, move the ball to their right but a shot has to be charged down before the Blues can clear. All United right now with Everton struggling to hold possession.

18’ – Iro with an excellent tackle to win the ball and KDH sets off with the ball, but with space opening up trips and falls on the ball. Ugh.

12’ – Barry again puts Lammens under pressure to clear and the Blues can almost fashion a chance but Maguire beats Gana to the ball and wins a foul.
Tarky wins a header over Amad and falls heavily, looks winded on the ground there.

10’ – As we’d expected after seeing the lineup, Everton are in the 4-2-3-1 with Branthwaite and Garner as the fullbacks, Armstrong at left wing with Irogebunam and Gana in the middle.

9’ – Dalot cuts in and his cross-shot is parried away by Pickford.

7’ – Barry and KDH combine to steal the ball in the attacking third, but Armstrong can’t retain the ball. United are seeing more of the possession, with Everton comfortable pressing them to try nick it in dangerous areas.

4’ – Ooof defensive shambles! United move into Everton’s box, Mbeumo puts it back into the box, Cunha’s shot blocked, falls to Amad whose shot is only partly saved by Pickford, squirms loose and Tarkowski has to clear off the line.

2’ – Dewsbury-Hall presses Yoro and Everton have a throw. The pressure is working and the crowd are loving it too.

1’ – United kick off, attacking the steep South Stand. Barry charges down Lemmens clearance and the ball could have gone anywhere, but is out for a goalkick!

The siren has gone off, Z-Cars serenades the players onto the pitch as the home crowd are in full voice tonight. Wayne Rooney is in the house too.

Starting Lineups

Everton – David Moyes is always full of surprises isn’t he? Do we have a centrehalf playing fullback (Branthwaite), and a central midfielder as the other fullback (Garner)?! Let’s throw in a central midfielder out on the wing for good measure.

Moyes says Charly Alcaraz picked up an injury in training yesterday, so he’s out tonight.

Tonight's Toffees to take on @ManUtd! 🔵#EVEMUNpic.twitter.com/ydteuiDM0m

— Everton (@Everton) February 23, 2026

Manchester United – Michael Carrick sticks with what has been working for him so far.

Introducing your Monday night Reds 🔴

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 23, 2026

Match Preview

After a nearly two week break, Everton return with a Premier League game hosting Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium looking to bounce back after a frustrating loss where they gave up a halftime lead to go down 2-1 against bogey club AFC Bournemouth.

Manchester United have had a good recent run since sacking Ruben Amorim under caretaker manager and former player Michael Carrick, climbing up to 5th in the table eight points ahead of the Blues on 37 pts in ninth place.

Any points today would see Everton move up to eighth, and would be welcome given how congested the middle of the table is – Brighton are in 14th place on 34 points, just three behind the Blues.

The injury situation remains about the same for the Blues with only Jack Grealish out for the season, with Jake O’Brien suspended for the game. The visitors will be minus Patrick Dorgu, Matthijs De Ligt and likely Mason Mount too.

Match Details

Competition: Premier League Matchweek 27

Date and start time: Monday, February 23rd at 12:00 p.m. PT / 3:00 p.m ET / 8:00 p.m. BST

Stadium: Hill Dickinson Stadium, Merseyside, England, United Kingdom

Capacity: 52,769

Weather: 49°F/9°C, light rain, 25% chance of precipitation, 5 mph winds

How to Watch/Listen

TV: USA Network, UNIVERSO, TeleXitos – United States; Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League United Kingdom; Fubo– Canada, beIN Sports HD 1, SuperSport Premier League ROA, SuperSport MaXimo 1 & 2

Radio: evertontv, TalkSport Radio UK

Live stream: Fubo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, UNIVERSO NOW, Sky Go UK, NOW, SKY GO Extra, Sky Ultra HD, ESPN Play Sur, beIN SPORTS CONNECT, DStv Now, RUSH, Jio Hotstar

Gamethread: There will be a live blog for this game, with our coverage continuing after the final whistle with the match recap and reaction.

*Royal Blue Mersey has affiliate partnerships and may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links provided.

Information from LiveSoccerTV.com

Last Meeting

The two sides had met at Old Trafford in a bizarre game earlier this season where Idrissa Gana Gueye was sent off in the first quarter hour for slapping his own teammate Michael Keane following a defensive mix-up. The Toffees though overcame being a man-down to score through Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and then held their lead to nab an away win.

In United’s final visit to Goodison Park, the two sides had battled to a 2-2 draw with the Blues racing into a two-goal lead after half an hour with Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure scoring, but then let United back into the game to nab a point through Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte.

Hannah Schmitz and Laura Mueller honoured at Albert Park as Australian GP renames Turn 6

Motorsport photo

The Australian Grand Prix has named Turn 6 of the Albert Park Circuit after Esteban Ocon's race engineer Laura Mueller and Red Bull head of race strategy Hannah Schmitz.

As part of the In Her Corner initiative, which is in partnership with Engineers Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, the move comes in celebration of International Women's Day.

Schmitz began working for Red Bull in 2009 as a modelling and strategy engineer. In 2011, she took the role of senior strategy engineer before being promoted to principal strategy engineer in 2021. The 40-year-old is one of only 11 women to have stood on the F1 podium to accept the constructors' trophy.

"I absolutely love my job and if you have the privilege of that choice also then make sure it’s the right role for you," Schmitz said.

"I was always curious about how things work and loved cars. At school I had some amazing support and encouragement from teachers that opened my eyes to the world of engineering, they were my inspiration.

"For me it has been an absolute honour to represent the team on the podium. In Qatar last season, it was incredible to be in the fight for the drivers’ championship, witnessing the way everyone came together as a team was something very special to be a part of."

Mueller joined Haas in 2022 in the simulator department before rising through the ranks in supporting roles at the races. In 2024, she served as a performance engineer before taking the role as Ocon's race engineer in 2025.

Laura Mueller, Race Engineer of Haas F1 looks on in the garage.

Laura Mueller, Race Engineer of Haas F1 looks on in the garage.

The German engineer said: "The ‘In Her Corner’ initiative promotes the importance of ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’ so the more we can all do to shine a light on the overall achievement of women in engineering is a great thing.

"To be a part of this acknowledgement so early on in my Formula 1 career is an honour, and I hope it motivates girls and young adults to pursue a career in STEM. It’s important to recognise women’s accomplishments in motorsport so far, and it’s great to be alongside Hannah for this."

Katherine Richards, Engineers Australia chief engineer, also said: "Engineers Australia is proud to partner with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation to launch In Her Corner and name a turn on one of the world’s most iconic circuits after two women currently shaping Formula 1.

"In Her Corner celebrates the talent, leadership and drive of two engineers who are redefining what’s possible, not just in Formula 1, but across engineering, technology and business."

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Minnesota Vikings News and Links: The Fun Never Ends!

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 01: Derek Carr #4 of the New Orleans Saints throws the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during a game at Caesars Superdome on December 01, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

I am really enjoying the debate about the QB position. I guess I love the drama! It is too bad that JJ McCarthy has been injured for much of the last two seasons. It really has delayed his development and the team’s ability to determine his long term future. His performance on the field has been up and down which should have been expected. There are folks on both sides of the argument about if he will ever blossom into a competent NFL QB. It truly is unfortunate for the team and JJ that they do not have full confidence this next season. That is what I am led to believe based on the comments from KOC in his end of season press conference. He could have killed all the speculation that is going on right now by simply saying “JJ McCarthy will be our starting QB in 2026”. He basically said he wanted to bring in competition.

Now, we have endless stories about who the Vikings will bring in for competition. There are some fans who really are upset about this and do not know why others are talking about possibilities. They feel JJ should be the starter. Period. There are even some that do not care about wins and want to give him one last shot. They say if the team does bad they can draft another QB in 2027 because there will be a better QB class in the draft.

There are other fans who want different veterans most of which you would assume would be the starters. I do not see a Kyler Murray, Derek Carr, and Aaron Rodgers being the backup. The money that gets paid may determine who starts as well although I feel several QBs can win a straight up competition at this point.

Other options like Malik Willis, Geno Smith, and Kirk Cousins could probably win a competition. I am not sure any other player they bring in would win the competition. Joe Flacco, Marcus Mariota, Russell Wilson, Kenny Picket, Trey Lance, Tyrod Taylor, and Zach Wilson all should probably be backups to JJ. Maybe the first three can win a competition? But is it worth it?

I can live with any outcome. I present different scenarios to attempt to elicit intelligent debates. I like several options.

If the team is unable to land a BIG FISH (Burrow or Jackson) then I am good with Rodgers. I feel he would be perfect because it allows JJ to learn from him and take over in 2027. This way the team gets “competent” QB play (Rodgers did look good last year when he was not getting killed) AND they still have their QBOTF who would now have another season of learning and development under his belt. Maybe Cousins would be OK with one year?


NFL Combine 2026: Schedule, TV channel, and how to watch workouts in Indianapolis

Workout schedule
Thursday, February 26 (3 p.m. to 8 p.m. ET): Defensive linemen, linebackers, kickers
Friday, February 27 (3 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET): Defensive backs, tight ends
Saturday, February 28 (1 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET): Quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs
Sunday, March 1 (1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET): Offensive linemen


Minnesota Vikings News and Links

Note: when I google “Vikings News” these are the stories that come up (I do not link to other blogs very often). Don’t shoot the messenger.

Vikings Put on Notice Over J.J. McCarthy Just Weeks Before 2026 NFL Free Agency

In a perfect world, the Minnesota Vikings will add a quarterback to compete with second-year signal-caller J.J. McCarthy during 2026. But that could be easier said than done.

At least according to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio that could be the case.

Florio argued Saturday that if the Vikings are going to add serious competition for McCarthy this offseason, then the team has to be serious about having said competition.

“They want a veteran who’ll compete with J.J. McCarthy. That could make it harder to attract a veteran who’ll want a commitment that he’ll be QB1,” Florio wrote. “Based on McCarthy’s performance and durability in 2025, however, most veteran quarterbacks with reasonable confidence would believe they can win a fair and square competition.

“If they believe the competition will be both fair and square.”

Maybe McCarthy will be better another year removed from the injury. But to seriously push him in a competition, the Vikings will have to convince free agents that they have a real chance to start instead of the 23-year-old in 2026.

Otherwise, the Vikings aren’t going to land a free agent quarterback any better than backup level. Or, the team will be forced to trade for a signal-caller, giving up assets to get real quarterback competition.

Rodgers isn’t going to sign with a team where he isn’t starting. Wilson lost his starting job during the 2025 campaign.

Other pending free agent signal-callers next month could include Daniel Jones, Marcus Mariota, Zach Wilson, Tyrod Taylor, and Joe Flacco.

But as Florio argued, those quarterbacks being interested in the Vikings might depend on how likely they feel they could earn the starting job over McCarthy.


Cardinals QB Kyler Murray Highlighted in Vikings Trade Buzz

“Some trades would by definition signal a new starter, whether it’s a deal for the Arizona Cardinals’ Kyler Murray or even the rights to retired New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr, who recently said he would unretire for a shot at winning the Super Bowl. Any such discussions are likely to heat up during the combine next week, at which point O’Connell and Brzezinski likely will have decided if they are prepared to sideline McCarthy should the right deal presents itself.”
Vikings Reporter Kevin Seifert


Vikings Predicted To Sign 298-TD Pro Bowl QB in Free Agency As J.J. McCarthy’s Future Hangs in Balance

Vikings Godfather Trade Pitch Swaps JJ McCarthy, Draft Haul for 2-Time MVP QB

New Trade Idea Has Vikings Landing $212 Million QB to Replace JJ McCarthy

Vikings $21 million trade candidate could draw interest from Steelers, Rams, Jets

Derek Carr–Vikings Rumor Great News for Saints

Vikings free agency prediction would be bad news for J.J. McCarthy, Steelers

Tua Tagovailoa trade rumors: Four possible landing spots for the Dolphins quarterback

What Your Preferred Vikings QB Option Says About You

The Vikings Aren’t the Only Team Skipping Press Conferences at the NFL Combine

3 Minnesota Vikings starters who will be replaced this offseason


Cap Stuff

Minnesota starts at $49M over the cap.

Move : Action : 2026 Savings
Justin Jefferson : Max Restructure : +$19.6M
Christian Darrisaw : Max Restructure : +$11.0M
Jonathan Greenard : Max Restructure : +$12.9M
Brian O’Neill : 3-Year Extension : +$12.2M
T.J. Hockenson : Pre-June 1 Trade : +$8.9M
Will Fries : Restructure : +$9.3M
Blake Cashman : 2-Year Extension : +$3.7M
Andrew Van Ginkel : 2-Year Extension : +$10.1M
Strategic Cuts : Kelly, Hargrave, A. Jones : +$30.4M
Total Savings : +$118.1M

The Derek Carr Trade & Contract (3 Years, $75M)
The Vikings acquire Carr from the Saints for a 2026 5th-round pick and receive a 7th-round pick.
Saints Retention: New Orleans restructures Carr’s contract before the trade to pay $15 million of his 2026 cash as a signing bonus, leaving them with a manageable dead cap hit.
The “Geno Smith” Redo: Minnesota tears up Carr’s inherited contract and signs him to a new 3-year, $75 million deal ($25M AAV) with $40 million fully guaranteed

Reworked Derek Carr Contract
Total Value: $75,000,000
Signing Bonus: $15,000,000 (spread over 3 real years + 2 void years).
Guaranteed Cash: $41M (Bonus + Year 1 Salary + $10M of Year 2 Salary).
Year : Base Salary : Prorated Bonus : Incentives : Cap Hit : Cash Flow
2026 : $16,000,000 : $3,000,000 : $3,000,000 : $19,000,000 : $31,000,000
2027 : $20,000,000 : $3,000,000 : $5,000,000 : $23,000,000 : $20,000,000
2028 : $24,000,000 : $3,000,000 : $7,000,000 : $27,000,000 : $24,000,000
Void : $3,000,000
Void : $3,000,000

If the team decides to part ways before the 2027 season (Pre-June 1):
Dead Money Absorption: $22.0 Million.
Calculation: $12M (remaining bonus proration) + $10M (guaranteed portion of 2027 salary).
Cap Savings: Releasing him would save $17.0 Million against the 2027 cap ($39M total hit vs $22M dead cap).

To keep Derek Carr’s contract “fair” but protective of the Vikings’ cap, we’ve structured $15M in total incentives ($3M in 2026, $5M in 2027, and $7M in 2028).
These are typically classified as NLTBE (Not Likely To Be Earned) based on his injury-shortened/retired 2025, meaning they won’t count against your cap until he actually achieves them.

2026 Incentives (Total: $3.0M)
Focus: Availability and Basic Efficiency
Playtime: $1.0M if he plays 75% or more of regular-season offensive snaps.
Efficiency: $1.0M if he finishes with a Passer Rating over 95.0 (his 2023 level).
Team Success: $1.0M if the Vikings make the Playoffs.

2027 Incentives (Total: $5.0M)
Focus: Postseason Progression
Playtime: $1.0M for 80%+ snaps.
Pro Bowl: $1.0M for an Original Ballot Pro Bowl selection.
Playoff Wins: $1.5M for a Divisional Round win.
Conference Title: $1.5M for an NFC Championship appearance.

2028 Incentives (Total: $7.0M)
Focus: Elite Performance & Super Bowl
Statistical Tier: $2.0M for 4,000+ Passing Yards and 30+ TDs.
MVP/All-Pro: $1.5M for NFL MVP or 1st Team All-Pro.
The Big One: $3.5M for a Super Bowl Win.

Strategic Ramification: The “Cap Push”
Because these are NLTBE, the Vikings don’t have to “set aside” this $15M right now.
If he fails: You keep the cap space.
If he succeeds: The “bill” for these incentives hits your 2027 or 2028 cap as a “rollover” charge.
With your $74.2M in projected 2027 space (after the Jonathan Allen and Josh Metellus cuts), you can easily absorb a $3M “success tax” from 2026.
Final Verdict: This setup pays Carr like a Top 10 QB if he plays like one, but keeps him at a Bottom 10 price tag if he struggles or gets hurt again.

Final Cap Health (2026 & 2027)
After clearing the initial deficit and signing Carr, the Vikings remain one of the most flexible teams in the league.

Remaining 2026 Cap Space: ~$50.1 Million
Calculation: $118.1M (Savings) – $49M (Deficit) – $19M (Carr Hit) = ~$50.1M.
Remaining 2027 Cap Space: ~$67.5 Million (includes cut of Allen & Metellus)

Player : 2026 Cap Hit : Contract Details
Travis Etienne (RB) : $4.8M : 3 yrs, $33.0M (Void Years Added)
Cade Mays (C) : $4.2M : 3 yrs, $36.0M (Void Years Added)
Logan Hall (DT) : $4.2M : 3 yrs, $27M (Void Year Added)
Nick Cross (S) : $3.2M : 3 yrs, $24.0M (Void Years Added)
Leo Chenal (LB) : $2.7M : 2 yrs, $12.0M (Void Year Added)
Kader Kohou (CB) : $3.5M : 1 yr, $3.5M (ACL “Prove-it”)
Noah Fant (TE) : $2.2M : 1 yr, $3.2M (Void Year Added)
Otito Ogbonnia (DT) : $2.1M : 2 yr, $7.0M
Benjamin St-Juste (CB) : $2.0M : 2 yrs, $7M
Jalen Tolbert (WR) : $2.0M : 1 yr, $2.0M

Remaining 2026 Cap Space: ~$22.7 Million
Remaining 2027 Cap Space: ~$52.8 Million (includes $26.2M saved from cutting Jonathan Allen and Josh Metellus in 2027)


Yore Mock

Trade Partner: Cowboys
Sent: 1.18
Received: 1.20, 4.112

Trade Partner: Steelers
Sent: 4.112
Received: 4.121, 5.159

Trade Partner: Broncos
Sent: TJ Hockenson
Received: 4.130

Pick 20 : TE Kenyon Sadiq Oregon 6’3″ 235
Pick 49 : CB D’angelo Ponds Indiana 5’8 1/4″ 174
Pick 82 : DL Darrell Jackson Jr. Florida State 6’5″ 337
Pick 97 : IOL Keylan Rutledge Georgia Tech 6’4″ 320
Pick 121 : WR Brenen Thompson Mississippi State 5’9″ 170
Pick 130 : S Michael Taafe Texas 6’0″ 190
Pick 159 : CB Ephesians Prysock Washington 6’2 7/8″ 194
Pick 161 : RB Kaelon Black Indiana 5’10” 210
Pick 195 : OT Aamil Wagner Notre Dame 6’5″ 302
Pick 235 : EDGE Keyshawn James-Newby New Mexico 6’2″ 244
Pick 241 : LB Erick Hunter Morgan State 6’4″ 220



Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:

While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm

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Leave the gender hatred at the door

Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)

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If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away

Forget Norway. This Tiny U.S. State Dominates the Winter Olympics.

This essay was reprinted from Peggy Shinn’s website. Read more of Slate’s 2026 Olympics coverage here.

The United States hauled in 33 medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics, its most ever at a Games outside North America. If you think that’s impressive, consider that more than 20 percent of those went to athletes who grew up or trained in Vermont, a state with fewer residents than many midsized cities. That list includes Mikaela Shiffrin, Ryan Cochran-Siegle, and Paula Moltzan, who won gold, silver, and bronze medals respectively in Alpine skiing; Mac Forehand, who got silver in free-skiing big air; and Ben Ogden (two silvers) and Jessie Diggins (a bronze) in cross-country.

Naturally, the national media went looking for a simple, pithy explanation. The New York Timeswondered if there was something in the water (or fine, the snow). The Associated Press floated maple syrup as the secret sauce. That theory gets a boost from the fact that Cochran-Siegle’s clan owns Slopeside Syrup, which sells single-serve packets of syrup marketed as “all natural athletic fuel.”

But the real explanation is rooted deeper than tree sap and snow. It is based on the old-fashioned concepts of family and community, and a culture that treats winter not as an inconvenience but as infrastructure. Vermont doesn’t send more Olympians to the Winter Games per capita than any other state because the state is buried in snow. (Yes, it often is, though less reliably than it used to be.) It’s because when winter lasts half the year, you either resent it or organize around it. Similar to the Norwegians and their “joy for all” concept of athlete development, we Vermonters choose the latter.

To fend off cabin fever, we have a long tradition of getting outdoors and making the best of the cold and snow: ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing in all forms, and snowboarding, too. (The first ski lift in the United States was built here.)

I’m an eighth-generation Vermonter, which is to say I was basically issued a pair of skis at birth. My mom had my sister and me wobbling around the backyard as toddlers, skis clipped on over snow boots. Our dad added figure skates to the mix. When we weren’t carving up ice, we were outside engineering questionable sled jumps and hurling ourselves off them with the confidence of children who assume snowbanks are soft.

My daughter came up through the Pico Ski Club program, where we volunteered with the cheerful masochism that defines winter parenting. (Gatekeeping in minus-15-degree windchill, anyone?) The friendships we made there have outlasted seasons, gear swaps, and growing pains. Around here, winter sports aren’t boutique hobbies or résumé padding for Olympic dreams. They’re what you do on a Saturday. Or a Tuesday after school.

For homegrown Olympic silver medalists like Cochran-Siegle and Ogden, their routes to the Olympics began not with corporate sponsorships but with parents in puffy jackets running youth programs on volunteer time. And those parents might just be NCAA champions and/or Olympic medalists themselves. In a small state like Vermont, with a limited tax base for public programs and few deep pockets, volunteer-run kid programs mean parents don’t have to have hedge-fund incomes to afford registration fees. At least not when kids are young.

Ogden grew up in Landgrove—a hamlet with more porcupines than residents—and started in the Bill Koch League, an all-volunteer cross-country ski program founded in 1977 after Vermonter Bill Koch became America’s first Olympic medalist in the sport. The goal there isn’t to mint Olympians. It’s to create lifelong skiers. Kids play games and race for lollipops. Parents treat Saturday practice as a social event and a chance to enjoy skiing themselves, ending with hot chocolate at the touring center.

It may take a village to raise a ski racer. In Vermont, it also creates one.

Talented athletes can graduate to one of the state’s ski academies, which function as finishing schools for skiing and snowboarding. Burke Mountain Academy, founded in 1970, has produced dozens of Olympians, Shiffrin among them. It was founded to meet a couple of needs: sell some midweek lift tickets and give kids who want to keep skiing through high school a place to both study and train. Other ski academies have popped up around the state. Stratton Mountain School counts Ogden among its alumni. Killington Mountain School recently sent snowboarder Jess Perlmutter to her first Olympics, where she finished sixth in slopestyle at age 16.

These academies draw ambitious teenagers from around the country. Shiffrin followed her older brother to Burke, and their mom moved to the village near the school. Forehand commuted from Connecticut every weekend before his family relocated full time. Vermont is happy to claim them all.

Some of these transplants never leave. Moltzan rediscovered her love of skiing after attending the University of Vermont. She stayed and bought a house in Waitsfield. “The Green Mountain State is the best state in the whole 50 states,” she said after winning the second run of the women’s slalom at the 2026 Games.

Ogden, a proud lifelong Vermonter, also stayed after graduating from UVM. He now skis professionally with Stratton’s SMS T2 team and often trains alongside current students. In Vermont, Olympians aren’t distant legends; they’re older teammates.

Diggins, now a four-time Olympic medalist, has long called the Stratton program home. She credits team dinners, send-off parties, and the feeling that entire towns are tracking her splits for helping to fuel her success. Ogden says he feels a “mental boost” from knowing his state is watching. In a small place, support isn’t abstract. After he won his second silver medal at the Milan Cortina Games, he said, “Vermonters have been such a huge part of my success this week and honestly, every other aspect of me.”

Cochran-Siegle’s pathway to success started way back with his grandparents. In 1960, Mickey and Ginny Cochran built a backyard rope tow on the hill behind their house in Richmond so their kids could ski after school without needing to drive an hour to one of the state’s larger ski areas. Over the next decade and a half, all four of their children would make the Olympics. Barbara Ann Cochran—Cochran-Siegle’s mother—won gold in slalom at the 1972 Olympics.

The Cochrans did not keep their ski hill to themselves. They opened it to the community. Lift tickets cost 25 cents. If a kid lacked proper gear, Ginny found it. If they were hungry, she fed them. In 1998, Cochran’s became a nonprofit. No child is turned away for lack of money. Families who can pay more do.

To keep things affordable, Cochran’s—and many of Vermont’s youth ski programs—runs on the backs of volunteers. That volunteerism isn’t incidental. Vermont consistently ranks at the top nationally for civic participation, with more than 40 percent of residents volunteering in some capacity. At a typical youth race, parents might be course marshals, timing officials, or simply extra eyes on the hill.

At Cochran’s, the family’s legacy still anchors the place. Barbara Ann, her siblings Marilyn and Lindy, and their extended families have coached there for decades. Two-time Olympian Jimmy Cochran now manages the hill. Their stated goal remains disarmingly modest: foster fun, not necessarily champions.

Asked what advice his mother gave him before winning both of his Olympic silver medals, at the 2022 and 2026 Games, Cochran-Siegle said it was very simple: “She just tells me to go out and have fun.” And what’s more fun than a tiny state dominating the world’s preeminent sporting event?

High school boys basketball: Monday’s 2A quarterfinal recap, South Sevier advances to semifinals

South Sevier and Rowland Hall compete at the 2A boys basketball state tournament.
South Sevier and Rowland Hall compete at the 2A boys basketball state tournament. | Carson Hilton

Here’s a recap of Monday’s 2A quarterfinals at UVU, with No. 4 South Sevier advancing. This story will be updated.

South Sevier 65, Rowland Hall 48

Much of Monday’s quarterfinal between South Sevier and Rowland Hall came down to the simple fact that nobody on the floor could stop Raidon Barney.

Rowland Hall struggled to handle the size of the 6-foot-8 Rams junior. Barney ended with a dominant 27-point, 12-rebound double-double in a convincing 65-48 quarterfinal win.

Whether it was on the perimeter or in the paint, Barney took advantage of mismatches.

“He’s so good with handling the ball, and he just creates mismatches everywhere he goes,” said South Sevier head coach Carson Christensen. “What I really love about him is he’s willing to find his players, his teammates, to get them open looks. They’re gonna send two guys every time, and he’s been so good at trying to find them. It just shows because he’s our leading assist guy as well.”

The Rams came out of the gate a little slow, which showed in a quick six-point lead for Rowland Hall in the first quarter.

Things quickly changed once South Sevier started to more handily win the rebounding battle and got Barney going.

“Rebounding was one thing we really hit on,” Christensen said. “The way Rowland Hall was going to beat us is they would have to outrebound us, and at the beginning, it was a little touch-and-go at first because they got four or five offensive putbacks down there.

“But, once they got that mentality that we’re going to rebound, that was the game changer right there.”

Once South Sevier started to pile on the points, Rowland Hall never recovered. Barney had a monster first half with 15 points and eight rebounds for a 33-18 lead.

The second half was much of the same. The Rams outscored the Winged Lions 22-12 in the third quarter and led by as much as 25 points.

The defense was also solid for South Sevier. Rowland Hall finally managed to put up an 18-point quarter in the fourth, but it was after the Rams sat some of their starters and the game was already put away.

Winged Lions’ leading scorer Jrue Miller was held to just eight points in the quarterfinal.

“Our defense was solid,” Christensen said. “We kept the Miller boys from scoring. It was from getting those rebounds and keeping them from getting the second chances.”

Monday Musings: A wild night in Coral Gables

CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Miami guard Tre Donaldson (3) gestures after time expired (also pictured, center Ernest Udeh Jr. (8), guard Tru Washington (10)) as the Miami Hurricanes faced the Virginia Tech Hokies on February 17, 2026, at the Watsco Center in Coral Gables, Florida. (Photo by Samuel Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Happy Monday, everybody. Hope your week has gotten off to a great start.

The Miami Hurricanes had some notable happenings in the sports world since the last time I touched base, so let’s get right to them.

1) Holy moly. What a night it was in Coral Gables last Tuesday night.

I had my phone and tables set up side by side and was watching the dramatics unfold in both Canes baseball and Canes hoops at the same time.

Miami baseball found themselves down 5-0 going into the eighth inning against UCF, and while it felt over, I figured I’d watched it this far and would stick with it. And boy, I’m glad I did. With two outs, Jake Ogden clubbed one out to left to get back inside slam range and make it 5-2 going to the ninth.

Meanwhile, Miami kept seesawing back and forth with the Virginia Tech Hokies on the hardwood. The stubborn Hokies continued to hold a slim lead that Miami would quickly erase, only to see VT jump back again. It felt like a game that, in the stars, was supposed to go Tech’s way. At least those were the vibes.

But then, UCF’s pitcher got wiiiiiiiild and plunked three Canes in the bottom of the ninth. Michael Torres got a ball past the infield for a single to plate two and tie the game. Suddenly, it felt like it could be Miami’s night.

MARK LIGHT MAGIC!!!! pic.twitter.com/93Htyjuf5S

— Miami Hurricanes Baseball (@CanesBaseball) February 18, 2026

Next door, up 67-66 with 3.6 seconds left, Tech drove the ball to the hoop. Except their man fell down and half-stumble/threw up a shot that missed. Tech missed the offensive rebound, and time expired on a crucial win at Watsco Center.

The Canes survive! They beat Virginia Tech 67-66 to improve to 21-5 overall! 10-3 in the ACC. Another late comeback win for Miami. pic.twitter.com/5wiXzHBzPR

— Will Manso (@WillManso) February 18, 2026

Amusingly enough, the baseball broadcast caught the fans making their way from the Wat over to Mark Light for the conclusion of the baseball game.

And then Vance Sheehan sent everybody home in elated fashion with a two-run bomba off the scoreboard in left for a walk off 8-7 win in 13 innings.

Adversity shaped him. Clutch defined him.

Nearly seven years removed from undergoing surgery for a brain tumor, Vance Sheahan (@SheahanVance) delivered a signature win for @CanesBaseball on Tuesday.

🔗 https://t.co/ss5iB6WnBrpic.twitter.com/AToe04oV0U

— D1Baseball (@d1baseball) February 19, 2026

Nights like this don’t come around often, and for those who got to go to one (or both), man, I am envious. A tremendous night for Miami athletics.

2) Saturday night was, unfortunately, tough for the Hurricanes on the hardwood in Charlottesville .

But they gave the Wahoos everything they had and took that game right to the wire. Miami tied it up at 83 on a driving basket by Malike Renau with seven seconds left. Unfortunately, what happened in the Canes’ favor the Saturday before burned them against Virginia. With under four seconds left, Tre Donaldson fouled Jake Mallory on a three, and Mallory sank all three free throws for the winning margin.

Still, that’s not a game you expect to win, although it would have been basically a tourney clincher if they’d gotten it.

Next up is at FSU on Tuesday night. The Seminoles have been playing well lately, and Miami, well, almost never seems to beat them in basketball. This team needs to get this one in Tallahassee after coming up short in Coral Gables against them earlier in the year. A loss could push Miami back towards the bubble after working hard to get off it.

3) Boy, how the Canes are crushing the baseball right now.

I’ll just leave this here for you.

Cuvet's grand slam is Miami's 21st HR this season in their 9th game

Canes hit their 21st HR in game 18 last year. They had 8 HR after their 9th game#GoCanes

— Canes Research (@CanesResearch) February 22, 2026

I was doing some stuff around the house yesterday, so I just caught bits and pieces, but holy Cannoli, did the Canes’ offense go nuclear. 30-5 over Lafayette.

We’ve seen Daniel Cuvet, Alex Sosa, Torres, Sheahan, and others come through at the plate this year so far, but boy, there’s one particular Cane to keep a close eye on as you go forward. Dylan Dubovik went nuclear against Lafayette, with five of his nine hits in 11 ABs going for extra bases. The local freshman from Coral Springs could be in the midst of an early career breakout.

Is this good? @NCAABaseball@ACCBaseballpic.twitter.com/psA6fnlUGJ

— Miami Hurricanes Baseball (@CanesBaseball) February 23, 2026

We’ll see how he and the rest of the 9-0 Canes do this weekend as the competition steps up — the Florida Gators come to town this weekend for a three-game series.

Go Canes!

Michigan basketball has Andy Katz's most consequential game this week

College basketball analyst Andy Katz dropped Michigan basketball from No. 1 to third after the Wolverines lost to Duke this weekend, a move echoed by both the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll and AP Top 25, but the maize and blue have some big games remaining, which could boost their profile.

While Tuesday night's game against Minnesota should be a game that Michigan easily wins, there are still road games at No. 11 Illinois and recently unranked Iowa, along with the regular-season home finale against No. 13 Michigan State.

This week should be a moment where the Wolverines can regain momentum, and Katz believes that the most consequential game in the next seven days will be that No. 3 vs. No. 11 matchup between Michigan and the Illini.

March is coming 🔥

In the final week before March, @TheAndyKatz drops 🔟 pivotal games to keep an eye on 👀 pic.twitter.com/Fu2m9qeJaB

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) February 23, 2026

The Wolverines are still ranked No. 1 in the NET rankings, which matters most for NCAA Tournament seeding. While popular sentiment and media polls might paint a narrative, that's still the biggest barometer for where things will land coming out of the conference tournaments, entering the big dance in March.

Meanwhile, Michigan is ranked No. 1 in KenPom still, but Illinois is no slouch, coming in ranked No. 4 via those metrics -- the best team that the Wolverines will have seen other than Duke, which is No. 2. And that game is on the road in Champaign.

Michigan has wins over KenPom's No. 7 Purdue, No. 9 Gonzaga, No. 10 MSU, and No. 12 Nebraska.

This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Key game ahead for Michigan basketball per analyst Andy Katz

Leven focusing on standards amid Aberdeen managerial uncertainty

Aberdeen caretaker manager Peter Leven says his players have no doubts about what's expected of them as he continues to navigate the club through uncertain times.

The club's chairman Dave Cormack explained in a message to supporters on Sunday that a permanent appointment had not been made because of "unforeseen circumstances", nearly two months since Jimmy Thelin was sacked.

Sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel said an appointment was imminent earlier this month, but there is no clarity over whether Leven will be in charge until the end of this week or the end of the season.

"I'm just day by day, game by game right now," Leven said. We brought Tony [Docherty] in to help and if anything changes, I'm sure the club will notify you.

"The boys still know the standards we expect, the standards I set at this club. It's just the situation we're in and we have just got to deal with it right now."

Aberdeen have won just one of their past 10 league matches, losing eight of them, and must win at Tannadice on Tuesday to keep their slim hopes of a top-six finish alive.

They are 11 points behind sixth-placed Falkirk with two games in hand.

"It's a massive game," Leven said. "We know what it means to the fans. We go there to try and win every game.

"The performances have been decent enough, it's about getting that win and following up from the Motherwell cup game.

"We are at the business end of the season, we want to try and play good football, but it's all about picking up points, and that is the most important thing."

An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.
[BBC]

Rate My UCL MD10 Fantasy Team

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 21: Ademola Lookman of Atletico de Madrid reacts during the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Atletico de Madrid and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium on February 21, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images

Matchday 10 is a key stage of the competition where everything becomes more serious. Teams are either trying to protect their advantage from the first leg or fighting hard to recover after going behind.

At this point, every goal and every mistake can change the final result.

This round feels like a tough contest. Some teams must attack from the first minute to turn things around.

Clubs like Juventus are looking to bounce back after losing 5-2 to Galatasaray, while clubs like Inter Milan need to overturn a 3-1 loss against Bodo/Glimt.

Other teams are in a strong position and just need to complete the job. Clubs like Newcastle carry a big 6-1 lead into their second leg, and clubs like Bayer Leverkusen hold a comfortable 2-0 advantage over Olympiacos.

These teams can play with more control as they try to secure their place in the next round.

With some clubs coming to attack and others trying to protect their lead, this matchday is hard to predict.

Picking players from teams that are more likely to win or control their games can give you UCL Managers better chance of getting strong returns.

UCL Matchday 9 Team Review

Matchday 9 was a strong week for my team as they collected a total of 82 points in the first leg of the play-offs. The squad delivered solid returns across all positions, and several players stepped up at important moments.

Captain Kylian Mbappe returned 10 points after his score was doubled from a 5-point haul. Even though he did not score, he played a key role against a strong Benfica defense and created space for teammates.

One of those players was Vinicius Junior, who scored the winning goal and earned 7 points, helping the Real Madrid double up pay off.

In attack, Julian Alvarez and Ademola Lookman also contributed well in a high-scoring game.

Alvarez scored from the penalty spot to finish with 7 points, while Lookman also found the net and added another 7 points. Both players rewarded the trust placed in them.

In midfield, Anthony Gordon delivered the standout performance with a massive 27-point haul after scoring four goals in one half. His performance almost decided the tie on his own.

The midfield duo of Vitinha and Kvaratskhelia combined for 5 points in the match between PSG and Monaco.

Vitinha missed a penalty, but Kvaratskhelia remained active and involved throughout the game.

At the back, Malick Thiaw stood out with 9 points after a strong defensive display and an attacking contribution.

Achraf Hakimi added 7 points, proving that attack-minded defenders can still bring good returns. In goal, Marco Carnesecchi provided steady saves.

Overall, Matchday 9 was a strong performance. Now the focus shifts to the second leg and making smart transfer decisions based on the upcoming fixtures.

Two Free Transfers Heading Into Matchday 10

Heading into Matchday 10, my team needed adjustments. Lautaro Martínez is injured and Malick Thiaw is suspended, so I used my two free transfers to strengthen the squad and prepare for the second leg.

I brought in Serhou Guirassy to replace Lautaro. He is in strong form with four goals and three assists so far this season, he also contributed in the first leg.

With Dortmund holding a 2-0 lead at home, he has a strong chance to add more points.

In defence, I replaced Thiaw with Dan Burn. He brings stability and plays for Newcastle, who carry a big 6-1 advantage into the second leg. He also offers clean sheet potential and can contribute going forward.

With these changes, my squad is balanced and ready for the decisive games. Julian Alvarez will be holding my armband as captain for this matchday.


How is your team set up for the second leg? Drop your transfers, captain pick, and any big moves you made ahead of Matchday 10. Let’s discuss and see who made the best decisions.

Trump invites gold medal-winning Team USA hockey team to State of the Union. What about the women?

After they won Olympic gold on Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Canada, the Team USA men’s hockey team got a phone call — and an invite — from President Donald Trump.

“We’re in!” a group of players shouted, as Trump invited them to Tuesday night’s State of the Union speech at the U.S. Capitol, NJ.com reported.

The invitation did not extend, however, to the Team USA women’s squad, which also skated to Olympic gold in a win over Team Canada.

Trump did make an apparently begrudging mention, as the players laughed along with him, The New Republic reported.

“I must tell you, we’re gonna have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” Trump said. “I do believe I probably would be impeached.”

Social media was not amused. And Trump was harshly criticized on Monday for his remarks.

After Sunday’s historic win, Team USA star Jack Hughes, who plays for the New Jersey Devils, shouted out Team USA women’s player Megan Keller, who led her team to the gold medal against Canada on Thursday.

With the men’s squad headed to Miami because of the blizzard blanketing the northeastern U.S., the players asked if a military plane could pick them up there, the online news outlet reported.

“We’ll get Kash or we’ll get the military to get you guys over,” Trump said, referring to FBI Director Kash Patel, who was in the locker room and holding up his phone so the players could hear the call.

“We love you guys. Congratulations,” Trump said as he wrapped up the call. “I’m going to shake hands with everybody, but I got to shake hands with that goalie [Connor Hellebuyck]!”

Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews, a native Arizonan and the Team USA captain, said he and his teammates were “all proud Americans, obviously.”

“This is a huge moment for us, a huge moment for the United States. [Trump] called. Just congratulated us … It’s an honor to wear this jersey and represent the U.S. To go home with a gold medal, you know how much that means to guys in this room, to people watching and rooting us on, too,” Matthews continued, according to Breitbart News.

But he stopped short of saying that the whole team would make the trip to D.C.

“I think there’s a lot of moving parts as far as our travels back home. We’ll kind of see what happens, but obviously it’s an honor to wear this jersey and to represent the U.S.,” Matthews said. “To go home with a gold medal, I mean, you know how much that means to the guys in this room and how much it means to all the people watching and rooting us on, too.”

More on Politics

Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Calvin's MIAA MVP Jalen Overway to enter transfer portal after season

GRAND RAPIDS - Jalen Overway plans to play basketball next season.

But the Calvin University star isn’t sure where. 

The 6-foot-10 redshirt junior said on Saturday he will enter the college basketball transfer portal at the end of this season.

“I believe so, yes,” he said when asked if he’ll enter the portal.

Overway, a Holland Christian High School grad, is a two-time MIAA MVP and he could win his third. He leads the MIAA in scoring at 24.7 points per game and is second with 9.7 rebounds.

More: How Zeeland East grad Conner Schipper helped transform Olivet to MIAA contender

“I’ve been talking to my parents a lot and the coaches,” Overway said. “Now that my class is out of here, I feel like I’ve done what I can here. I’d like to see what I can do in the future. Nothing’s set yet. But we’ll see.”

Overway sat out all of last season after having knee surgery. 

Calvin's Jalen Overway goes up for a shot against Hope on Saturday, Feb. 21, at Van Noord Arena.

Overway said he’d like to follow the same path as former high school rival Gabe Newhof, who played three years at Spring Arbor University before transferring to Division I James Madison University for the current season.

“He’s killing it over at James Madison,” Overway said. 

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Calvin basketball player Jalen Overway to enter transfer portal

Man Utd-linked Yan Diomande excels in pressing stat also dominated by Elliot Anderson

Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

Two Manchester United transfer targets, Yan Diomande and Elliot Anderson, are showcasing a shared dominant strength in the Bundesliga and the Premier League, respectively.

Manchester United’s top priority for midfield in 2026 is now clear, with Elliot Anderson taking the lead ahead of summer. His recent performance against Liverpool has only increased that focus.

Meanwhile, Ineos are also searching for a left-sided winger, and there is growing interest in Yan Diomande.

The 19-year-old has been turning heads at RB Leipzig, and Amad Diallo’s relationship with him – built during their time together with Ivory Coast at AFCON – could play a role in any future move.

United consider Diomande to be a player of rare potential, with his numbers from the Bundesliga supporting that view.

Yan Diomande is thriving in duels throughout the Bundesliga

Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

Diomande has been a reliable playmaker for Leipzig this season, with eight goals and six assists in 22 league matches.

But it is his work without the ball that stands out even more. According to league data, no one in Germany’s top division has won more duels than the 19-year-old winger, who leads the way with 279 this campaign.

Despite playing on the wing, he is ahead of Kaishu Sano by 28 duels. This highlights just how much he impacts games beyond his attacking numbers.

He is also one of the quickest players in the league, having clocked a top speed of 36.3km/h.

Elliot Anderson and Yan Diomande are taking over in duel stats

Given the current state of the Premier League, being able to handle the physical side of the game is a big deal for any new signings.

Diomande’s ability to win duels, combined with his physical skills, shows he is more than ready to handle top-flight football in England.

Anderson, United’s main midfield target, also stands out in this area. He leads the Premier League with 223 duels won so far in 2025/26.

Everton’s James Tarkowski comes next with 177. For United, Patrick Dorgu leads their players with 140 duels won this season.

Ineos seem focused on adding players who can raise the team’s overall physical presence, and few fit that description better right now than Anderson and Diomande.

Read more:

Giants sign Dodgers' 2024 World Series champion to free agent contract

Brent Honeywell

Giants sign Dodgers' 2024 World Series champion to free agent contract originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The San Francisco Giants have added some experienced pitching depth to their roster.

On Monday, the Giants reached a deal with free agent right-hander Brent Honeywell, according to MassLive's Chris Cotillo.

The most notable part of Honeywell's recent past is that he was a part of the Dodgers when they won the 2024 World Series title.

Honeywell was originally a second-round pick by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2014 MLB Draft out of Walters State Community College.

He rose through the minors as a highly touted prospect with one quirk: He throws a screwball.

Honeywell only pitched in three games in his career for the Rays, though, not making his talent work at the highest level.

In 2023, he split the season between the Padres and White Sox.

Then in 2024, it was the Pirates for two games and the Dodgers for 18.

That 2024 season was encouraging, as Honeywell had a 2.62 ERA for the Dodgers. 

The most fascinating number on his board, though, is that Honeywell struck out only 4.5 batters per nine innings that year, which is like the mark from a long bygone era.

Honeywell missed the entire 2025 season, and now he's trying to build a comeback.

The Giants have a bunch of quality arms, but there's no such thing as too much pitching. 

If Honeywell pitches well in the spring, he can put himself into the picture to make the roster on Opening Day or sometime during the campaign when extra arms are needed.

Is Darryn Peterson playing tonight? What to know about Kansas star's status vs. Houston

Is Darryn Peterson playing tonight? What to know about Kansas star's status vs. Houston originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Kansas star Darryn Peterson is expected to play Monday night when the No. 8 Jayhawks host No. 2 Houston in a Big 12 matchup at Allen Fieldhouse. 

This comes after Peterson has faced heavy criticism for "ducking" out of game or missing some entirely. The high-profile freshman guard and presumptive top pick for the 2026 NBA Draft wasn't listed on Kansas’ latest injury report and appears likely to take the floor after logging significant minutes in Saturday’s 84-68 loss to Cincinnati. 

Peterson’s availability has been one of the season’s most picked apart storylines of the college basketball season. The 6-foot-6 phenom has missed multiple games this year due to a combination of cramping issues, illness and minor injuries, including a notable absence with flu-like symptoms in a win over then undefeated Arizona earlier this month.

Despite that history, Kansas coach Bill Self has indicated Peterson’s current status is sound enough for Monday’s Big 12 “Big Monday” contest. 

When active, Peterson has been a key offensive catalyst for the Jayhawks, averaging near 20 points per game with strong shooting splits. His presence will be critical against a Houston team coming off consecutive losses that has dropped to second in the conference standings, including a tough defeat to Arizona at home. 

MoreMichigan-Duke ticket prices set a Washington DC record for sporting event

Kansas and Houston tip off at 9 p.m ET on ESPN in what could be a pivotal game in the race for Big 12 positioning towards March. 

More college basketball news:

GameThread: Tigers vs. Twins, 1:05 p.m.

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal practices during spring training at TigerTown in Lakeland, Fla. on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Detroit Tigers vs. Minnesota Twins

Time/Place: 1:05 p.m., Joker Marchant Stadium – Lakeland, FL
SB Nation Site: Twinkie Town
Media: Tigers Radio Network

Skub days are back 🤩 pic.twitter.com/oZLC1o35PE

— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) February 23, 2026

best shape of his life pic.twitter.com/jjIHuvPfR4

— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) February 23, 2026

Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni set for an NFL Combine media session

The offseason is entering its next meaningful phase for the Philadelphia Eagles and the NFL's other 31 franchises. The NFL Combine approaches, and that means hearing directly from two men who help steer the franchise in Indianapolis.

General manager Howie Roseman and head coach Nick Sirianni are scheduled to meet with reporters on Tuesday during the NFL Scouting Combine. This is the first time we have heard from them since their co-op season-ending press conference.

Gosh! Doesn't that seem like it was forever ago?

Roseman is at the podium at 2:45 p.m. EST. Coach Sirianni will follow immediately at the same location at 3 p.m.

HC & GM podium schedule for Indianapolis. pic.twitter.com/8u2g0W0pb4

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 20, 2026

This should be interesting. It offers one of the first substantial opportunities this offseason to gauge the organization's mindset heading into free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft. Don't be shocked, however, if the conversation travels elsewhere.

Scouting Combine press conferences are rarely about blockbuster revelations. They're sometimes about tone, direction, subtle clues, and word salads. Still, there will be plenty to watch for.

Philadelphia faces several key roster questions, contract decisions, potential extensions, and a new era under a new offensive coordinator. They'll more than likely be asked about A.J. Brown trade rumors that should have died a while ago.

Dingers are crossed that they'll share something about how aggressively the team plans to approach roster reinforcement after last season's disappointment. We'll see if that happens. As part of the media they'll be sitting with, it's more national than local.

The Eagles are also near free agency. It's time to pay some of the young stars, and finances are tight. Another storyline worth monitoring is how both Sirianni and Roseman frame last season.

Do they emphasize lessons learned and injury factors? Do they discuss issues with execution and the recent coaching changes? The language used now often foreshadows offseason priorities.

One thing is certain. Expectations in Philadelphia haven't changed much. This franchise measures success in championships, not playoff appearances.

Tuesday's session won't determine the season, but it will begin shaping the narrative around what comes next. In a city that demands accountability and ambition, you can best believe that every word will be closely analyzed.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni set for an NFL Combine media session

The Women’s Other Top 25: North Dakota St. emerges as No. 1 following upsets in Atlantic 10

North Dakota St. became the fourth team this season to sit atop the Women’s Other Top 25. The Bison moved up from three to one this week. They have won 23 straight games, which is the second longest streak in the country behind UConn.

Jory Collins’ team is 41 in the NET and 51 in BartTorvik. NDSU is 26th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 13th in effective field goal percentage, per Torvik.

Rhode Island and Richmond were in the top two spots and entered last week undefeated against the rest of the A10. All that changed as they suffered three losses over the last seven days. Rhody dropped its first conference game at LaSalle Wednesday. The Spiders suffered losses at George Mason and at George Washington.

The Rams and Spiders fell to four and six, respectively. They play at Richmond Wednesday.

Fairfield moved up to No. 2 this week, and Princeton elevated to third. South Dakota St. joined them in the top five at No. 5.

George Mason came in at seven, one spot ahead of where it was last week. San Diego St. was the lone team to join the top 10 and was eighth. Columbia followed, while Rice held steady at No. 10.

Miami (OH) made the biggest jump as the RedHawks ranked 13th, up eight spots. They are 22-5 and in sole possession of first place in the MAC. Glenn Box’s group completed a season sweep of Ball St. with a 68-64 win over the Cardinals Saturday. Ball St. was one spot behind in the ranking.

Four new teams joined the poll this week. Murray St. came in at No. 19. Navy followed at 20. Davidson returned to the Other Top 25 at No. 22. Louisiana Tech was 24th. They replaced Santa Clara, Arkansas St., Massachusetts and Idaho.

Here is the full ranking:

RankingTeamLast Week
1North Dakota St.3
2Fairfield4
3Princeton5
4Rhode Island1
5South Dakota St.6
6Richmond2
7George Mason8
8San Diego St.11
9Columbia7
10Rice10
11Montana St.12
12Harvard9
13Miami (OH)21
14Ball St.14
15Quinnipiac15
16Troy18
17McNeese St.16
18UC Irvine19
19Murray St.NR
20NavyNR
21James Madison13
22DavidsonNR
23Colorado St.20
24Louisiana TechNR
25Green Bay22

Dropped from ranking:

Santa Clara – 17; Arkansas St. – 23; Massachusetts – 24; Idaho – 25

Spurs vs Pistons Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for February 23

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Tonight's marquee NBA game is undoubtedly the San Antonio Spurs vs. the Detroit Pistons, with both teams riding extended win streaks.

We ran our NBA player prop projections to see where the lines don’t quite match the numbers.

If you’re locking in your NBA picks, these Spurs vs. Pistons predictions are the spots where the model sees value on Monday, February 23.

Spurs vs Pistons computer picks for February 22

Spurs SpursPistons Pistons
Champagnie o7.5 points 
-112
Thompson o8.5 points 
-125
Wembanyama o23.5 points 
-115
Cunningham u27.5 points 
-110
Vassell o1.5 assists 
+100
Harris o5.5 rebounds 
+115

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Spurs computer picks

Julian Champagnie Over 7.5 points (-112)

Projection: 9.1 points

Julian Champagnie doesn’t need plays drawn up for him to clear this number. A few catch-and-shoot looks, and one trip in transition put him well on pace. The model has Champagnie north of nine points, giving this a comfortable margin Over 7.5.

He's gone Over this number in seven of his last nine games. 

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Victor Wembanyama Over 23.5 points (-115)

Projection: 24.8 points

Victor Wembanyama carries enough usage to live in the mid-20s most nights. He scores inside, stretches the floor, and gets to the line, which keeps his floor high. The projection puts Wembanyama nearly a full bucket above this line.

He's gone Over this number in five of eight February games.  

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Devin Vassell Over 1.5 assists (+100)

Projection: 2.1 assists

Devin Vassell only needs two assists to cash this, and that’s well within his normal role. With the ball in his hands consistently, a couple of simple kick-outs or drive-and-dish reads get him there. The model gives Vassell a solid edge at even money.

He's gone Over this number in three straight and in five of his last six. 

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Pistons computer picks

Ausar Thompson Over 8.5 points (-125)

Projection: 10.6 points

Ausar Thompson scores more on activity than on isolation. Cuts, offensive boards, and transition chances add up quickly. The projection has Thompson clearing double digits, creating separation from this 8.5 line.

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Cade Cunningham Under 27.5 points (-110)

Projection: 25.5 points

Cade Cunningham is capable of a 30-point night, but the model points toward a mid-20s output. If the defense crowds him and forces the ball elsewhere, Cunningham’s scoring dips just enough to stay Under.

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Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds (+115)

Projection: 5.9 rebounds

Tobias Harris logs steady minutes and spends enough time around the paint to flirt with six boards. At plus money, the projection gives Harris a small but playable edge Over this number.

He's gone Over 5.5 boards in three straight and in five of the last six. 

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How to watch Spurs vs Pistons tonight

LocationLittle Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
DateMonday, February 23, 2026
Tip-off7:00 p.m. ET
TVPeacock

Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

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.

MSU basketball moves up in latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

In a big week that saw Michigan State basketball get two consecutive Big Ten wins at home, the Spartans are moving back up the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. MSU is now back up to No. 13 in the country, up two spots from last week's ranking of No. 15.

Last week, the Spartans blew out UCLA at home, a win that looks better this week after the Bruins beat Illinois over the weekend. Then, MSU was able to survive a tight game over an Ohio State team that recently beat a Wisconsin team that has a win over the Spartans this year.

There was quite a bit of movement in the Big Ten this week in the polls thanks to some big games:

  • Michigan falls to No. 3 after their loss to Duke
  • Purdue falls one spot to No. 8 after losing to Michigan
  • Nebraska down five spots to No. 10 after their loss to Iowa
  • Illinois falls from No. 6 down to 11 after getting shocked by UCLA
  • Wisconsin falls out of the top-25 after losing to Ohio State

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan state news, notes, and opinion. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @IAmBrewster.

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: MSU basketball moves up in latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Eric DeCosta and Jesse Minter set for an NFL Combine media session

The offseason always brings questions, but this year has been a tad different for the Baltimore Ravens. It's been a long time since this many sweeping changes were enacted. Now comes another, the first visit to the NFL Combine with a new head coach in a long, long time. General manager Eric DeCosta and newly hired head coach Jesse Minter are expected to meet with reporters before the action gets underway.

This marks the first extended public discussion in front of the national media since the organization pivoted to a new leader on the sidelines. Make no mistake. The messaging will matter just as much as the roster decisions that follow.

Minter's arrival signals both continuity and change, and that may be more of a conversation than what Baltimore is seeking in terms of talent. He meets with the media at 12 p.m. EST on Tuesday. GM Eric DeCosta is also at podium 6, but he speaks a little earlier (10:15 a.m. EST).

HC & GM podium schedule for Indianapolis. pic.twitter.com/8u2g0W0pb4

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 20, 2026

Minter's lucky in some ways. He inherits a roster built to contend immediately, one anchored by a two-time MVP quarterback in Lamar Jackson. That isn't always the atmosphere when coaching changes are made.

Minter also brings his own philosophical approach, staff structure, and long-term vision. The Combine podium will offer the first hints about how aggressively Baltimore plans to shape the roster to fit that vision. Obvious topics are waiting: offensive identity, coaching staff cohesion, and how quickly Minter believes the team can compete for a championship under his leadership.

DeCosta, meanwhile, will probably be asked about contract priorities, roster retention, and the organization's approach to free agency with a contender's window still wide open. Don't be shocked if Tyler Linderbaum and Lamar Jackson's names are inserted into the conversation.

That isn't a guarantee, obviously. It's only a hunch. The Ravens are not rebuilding. They're recalibrating, so it's important to mention that distinctions must be made.

What Baltimore says this week won't finalize its direction, but it may establish some early expectations. Fans and analysts alike will be listening for confidence, urgency, and alignment between the front office and coaching staff.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta and Jesse Minter set for an NFL Combine media session

F1’s Mr. Saturday, Meet Sunday: Is 2026 Finally George Russell’s Year?

George Russell has spent the better part of four years in F1 being the guy everyone agrees is really, really good — just not quite good enough. Not because he isn’t talented. He is. But talent without machinery is just a resume, and until now, the machinery was the problem.

That might be about to change.

Also Read:: F1 Testing: Leclerc Tops Final Day, But Real Story Was What Happened Off the Clock

F1 Changes Could Benefit Russell Most

George Russell F1 Mercedes

F1 is throwing out nearly everything teams have spent the last four years perfecting. New power units. Active aerodynamics — meaning the car’s wings physically adjust to generate speed or grip depending on the situation, like a fighter jet trimming its flaps mid-flight. No more MGU-H, which was the turbo-recovery component that made starts and engine management a dark art. Shorter, lighter chassis. Flat floors instead of the venturi tunnels that produced the infamous “porpoising” that torpedoed Mercedes when the last major regulation change hit in 2022. It’s essentially a new sport layered on top of the old one, and Russell finds himself positioned better for it than at any point in his career.

The bookmakers agree. He’s the F1 pre-season title favorite, which either means Mercedes has genuinely cracked the new formula or that the betting markets are getting ahead of themselves. Possibly both.

“I think we’ve got a lot of potential beneath us,” Russell said in Bahrain last week, where Mercedes completed the most laps — 4324 — of any team during the testing. That number matters. Reliability is the unsung story of any new-car launch, and the W17 has behaved.

“The numbers we’re seeing from the aero on the car match what we see back on the simulator, how the car is handling is matching how it feels on the simulator,” he added. “This is something we’ve not really experienced since 2021 as a team.”

Signing off from F1 Testing with @GeorgeRussell63 🩵 pic.twitter.com/E1aWCiysqt

— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) February 20, 2026

That’s not small. In 2022, when ground-effect cars were introduced for F1, Mercedes showed up to Bahrain with a car that bounced violently down every straight. Nobody had predicted that. They spent the next three seasons chasing a problem that Red Bull and then McLaren never had. The trauma of that experience is baked into every cautious statement Russell and Toto Wolff have made this pre-season, and the caution itself is telling. These are people who have been burned before. When they say the car “reacted as anticipated,” that’s not corporate spin. That’s relief.

The Problem Plaguing George Russell Heading into Melbourne

Mercedes f1

Here’s the thing, though. Russell has a real weakness heading into Melbourne, and he’s not hiding it.

Race starts have always been a soft spot. Under the new regulations, the removal of the MGU-H means drivers have to manually prep the turbocharger before lights out, a technically demanding sequence that requires precise timing to get right. Ferrari, apparently, has figured something out. Lewis Hamilton’s practice at Bahrain was visually striking, clean, and fast in a way Russell’s simply wasn’t.

“The two starts I made this week were worse than my worst-ever start in Formula 1,” Russell said, which is the kind of quote that will appear in highlight reels if he loses the title by a handful of points in November. He’s not panicking, but he acknowledged the problem plainly: “At this moment, it matters less how fast you are, but how well you solve this problem.”

And that’s where it gets interesting. Because the competition doesn’t need much of an opening.

Max Verstappen is still Max Verstappen. Red Bull, for the first time, is running its own engine built in partnership with Ford, which sounds like a liability until you realize Red Bull’s chassis has been among the two or three best on the grid for the better part of a decade. During the first Bahrain test, their energy deployment — basically how efficiently the car uses electrical power out of corners and down straights — was, in Russell’s own words, “scary.” Mercedes claims to have closed that gap considerably by the end of testing. We’ll see what Melbourne says.

Lewis Hamilton says he's "not going anywhere" 🤩👊#F1pic.twitter.com/NUzo2Xompr

— Formula 1 (@F1) February 23, 2026

Fearrari’s Hamilton is racing for redemption in 2026. His move to Ferrari last season was the biggest storyline of the entire F1 offseason, a seven-time world champion leaving the team he won six of those titles with to take one last swing. Pre-season 2026 gave Ferrari the fastest raw pace of anyone in Week 2 of Bahrain testing. And then there’s Lando Norris, who won the 2025 drivers’ title with McLaren and has no intention of handing the sport back to anyone.

Russell addressed the Verstappen question directly and without flinching.

“I do want to go head-to-head with Max. And obviously, Lando had a great season last year,” Russell said. “I think he’s very much going to be in the fight this year. And you know, that is great. You obviously wish you’d have a slightly easier time of it. But it should never be easy.”

That’s the right attitude. It’s also the most honest thing anyone in the paddock has said this pre-season.

The Case for Russell Making a Push to the Top Now

George Russell Mercedes F1

The case for Russell is real: he’s 27, experienced, coming off his best personal season, driving for a team with genuine momentum and what sounds like a legitimate power unit advantage.

The case against is equally real: starts are broken, the field is genuinely open for the first time since 2021, and he’s never had to manage a full-season title fight before. Winning individual races is a different animal.

But the stars are aligned in a way they’ve never quite been. If the W17 is what those 500 laps in Barcelona suggest it might be, and if Russell figures out how to get off the line before the lights go out in Australia, this might finally be the Sunday we’ve been waiting for.

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Alabama women's basketball rises in latest AP Poll Top 25

The AP Poll for Week 16 of the women’s college basketball season has officially been released.

Alabama is ranked at No. 24 following a 1-1 record in two games of action this past week. Alabama most recently defeated the Florida Gators on Sunday in Gainesville, 76-71, which followed a 75-57 home loss to South Carolina earlier in the week. Star guard Jessica Timmons was nothing short of elite during the matchup, as Timmons recorded an impressive 34 points on 11-of-17 shooting in the victory.

Alabama currently holds a 7-7 record in SEC play with just two games on the schedule remaining. The Tide will certainly have their hands full against both Vanderbilt and Texas in the upcoming week, as a win against either program would prove to play a massive role in NCAA Tournament seeding moving forward.

No. 24 Alabama will face No. 5 Vanderbilt on Thursday evening, as the Tide will look to improve to 8-7 in SEC play.

Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama women's basketball AP Poll ranking after win vs. Florida

‘I have the best job in the world’ – Murphy proud of Newcastle journey after scoring first Champions League goal

‘I have the best job in the world’ – Murphy proud of Newcastle journey after scoring first Champions League goal
‘I have the best job in the world’ – Murphy proud of Newcastle journey after scoring first Champions League goal

Jacob Murphy says he “felt relief” after scoring his first ever Champions League goal in Newcastle’s 6-1 win against Qarabag.

Murphy’s goal in Baku last week was not only Newcastle’s sixth of the affair versus Qarabag, but the first of his Champions League career.

With his side welcoming the Azerbaijani champions to St James’ Park for the second leg of their Champions League play-off tie, Murphy was delighted to finally get his first goal in the competition after over two years of waiting.

“It felt amazing, but I also felt relief as well,” Murphy said. “After my European debut two years ago I was just waiting for my first goal, so it was really nice [to get it].”

The Magpies looked poised to qualify for the knockout rounds of the competition for the first time in their history.

On the game, Murphy said: “It’s nice to be back at home. We’ve had four tough away games in a row and it’s just nice to be back in front of our fans.”

“It’s going to be a tricky game, but we’re really looking forward to tomorrow.

“It would be amazing [to qualify for the knockout rounds]. Over the last four seasons this group has been reaching new heights in different ways, if we do [qualify] then we’ll be super buzzed about it.”

Eddie Howe’s side raced into a five goal lead in Azerbaijan, with Murphy adding gloss to the victory with his side’s sixth of the match midway through the second half.

On Newcastle’s red-hot start in Baku, Murphy said: “I think the people who were watching at home would have been blown away with our start. I know I was on the bench. It was a really strong performance.”

“That’s what we’re capable of. Everyone in the Premier League knows that and we’ve shown a good account of it in the Champions League too.”

Tremendous 10 poll for Feb. 16-21, presented by Central Florida Behavior Health

For teams to advance in the playoffs, the star athletes usually need to play up to their ability. What happens when the star is out? Then an unsung role player needs to come through, and that's what Alyse Mercredi has done since Serenity Hardy went down with an injury. In the past six games, Mercredi has been averaging nearly double her regular-season average and led Winter Haven's come-from-behind victory.

In soccer, Victory Christian's Kinley Hunter came up with two clutch goals to help lead the upset of St. Johns Country day. Mercredi and Hunter lead this week's list of nominees for The Ledger's Tremendous 10 poll, sponsored by Central Florida Behiavioral Health Network.

In last week's poll, Lakeland's DJ Dobie edged Victory Christian's Chiara Domico in the closes battle this school year.Dobie finished with 47.5 percent of the vote, and Domico pulled in 46.2 percent.

Nominations for the Tremendous 10 poll can be sent weekly to roy.fuoco@theledger.com by 9 a.m. every Monday. This week's poll will be open until noon on Thursday.

State semifinals: Here's how Victory Christian stunned 15-time champion St. Johns Country Day

State finals: Victory Christian falls short but proves it belonged with top teams

Regional semifinals: Bartow finishes strong, Santa Fe, Victory roll to finals

1 Winter Haven junior guard Alyse Mercredi (girls basketball) mustered up 30 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three steals to lead the Blue Devils’ second-half rally in a  68-59 victory over Sarasota Riverview. For the season, she is averaging 11.4 points but she is averaging 18.6 points in her past six games.

2 Victory Christian freshman Kinley Hunter (girls soccer) scored two goals in the Storm’s 3-1 victory over St. Johns Country Day in the Class 1A state semifinals. She finished the season with eight goals and six assists.

3 Winter Haven senior Desirae Murray (girls track and field) ran 11.87 to win the 100-meter dash at the St. Cloud Track Invitational. She is ranked No. 5 in Class 4A in the event. 

4 Santa Fe Catholic senior Toby Lane (basketball) scored 25 points with four rebounds, four assists and two steals in the Crimson Hawks’ 66-35 victory over Jupiter Christian.

Randy Orton Wants to RKO Tom Brady for Making Fun of WWE

Tom Brady (L), Randy Orton (R); Credit - USA TODAY Sports
Tom Brady (L), Randy Orton (R); Credit - USA TODAY Sports

In case you missed it, Tom Brady recently trash-talked the WWE, calling the sport “cute.” This has since struck a chord in the wrestling community, and even Randy Orton saw the clip and now wants to hit Brady with his signature RKO.

Brady hit a nerve during his appearance on Logan Paul’s podcast. The two were talking about how they will play in the Fanatics Flag Football Fest in Saudi Arabia soon. Brady wanted to let Paul know that the level of competition is going to be fierce and that he was worried for the wrestler.

Naturally, Paul defended himself, referencing his high school football resume, wrestling background, and peak athleticism. He talked about how he can do a flip off the top rope in a WWE match. That’s when Brady said this. “It’s cute. You know, I love WWE. It’s very cute. But honestly, this is like real football with real competition,” Brady said.

The GOAT went on to say that nobody cares about the past. He talked about how he’s won seven Super Bowls, but when it comes time for the flag football game, nobody is going to care about that. All that matters is how he plays. It was supposed to be some playful trash talk between two massive sports personalities. However, Brady’s words cut deep in the wrestling community, and they’ve been going at him for it ever since.

14-time WWE champion Randy Orton joined a show recently and talked about how he’d like to give Brady a taste of reality.

“I did see a recent podcast Logan Paul put on. He had Tom Brady on, and Tom Brady had a few things to say about pro wrestling. I think he called it “cute.” So, I’ve never met him, but I’d love to meet Tom and hit him with an RKO. I’d say he’d be at the top of the list,” Orton said when asked which celebrity he’d like to drop an RKO on.

In case you don’t know, the RKO is Orton’s signature finishing move. It is a jump-cutting maneuver where he grabs his opponent’s head and slams their face into the mat. In 2014, the move became an internet sensation, with some jokes surrounding how it can seemingly come out of nowhere. RKO also stands for the athlete’s initials, Randy Keith Orton.

Who knows if Orton was being serious, though? He did sound like he was joking, as he was laughing as he talked about nailing Brady with an RKO. As he said, he’s never met the GOAT, and it’s hard to believe that he wouldn’t be more cordial in a normal atmosphere.

But who knows, maybe Brady makes a guest appearance in the future as a wrestler, and Orton can show him his finishing move. It’s all set up perfectly for the WWE script writers to orchestrate. All they need to do is convince Brady to try out the “cute” sport. The match would most likely do well online and generate a lot of money.

The post Randy Orton Wants to RKO Tom Brady for Making Fun of WWE appeared first on The SportsRush.

Potential 49ers free agency target off table after $16.3 million deal

The San Francisco 49ers might have been able to kill two birds with one stone by adding a big-time offensive playmaker who could also fill in for George Kittle during his injury absence. Now that option is off the table.

NFL Media's Ian Rapoport on Monday reported the Atlanta Falcons are set to place a franchise tag on 25-year-old tight end Kyle Pitts. The club and their former No. 4 overall pick will work toward a long-term extension per Rapoport.

A franchise tag for a TE is a one-year, fully-guaranteed $16.3 million for 2026 according to Over the Cap.

It's unclear exactly how much the 49ers would have pushed for the player who went one spot behind quarterback Trey Lance in the 2021 draft. However, the fit made sense given Pitts' breakout campaign for Atlanta this season. He racked up a career-high 88 catches for 928 yards and a career-best five touchdown receptions.

Pitts would've been able to pick up some of the playmaking slack while Kittle is sidelined by an Achilles injury, but his versatility would've allowed him to also play alongside Kittle.

There's still a chance Pitts is traded, in which case the 49ers would conceivably be in play. On the other hand, the idea of the 49ers spending draft capital to acquire and pay a tight end is farfetched.

Atlanta has until July 15 to work out a long-term deal with Pitts. If they can't come to an agreement, Pitts can either be traded or play out the 2026 campaign on his $16.3 million tag.

Pitts in five seasons has 284 receptions for 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was a Pro Bowler as a rookie when he hung up 1,026 yards. In 2025 his career year earned him a Second-Team All-Pro spot.

More 49ers: NFC South team is potential trade partner for disgruntled 49ers WR

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: NFL free agency: 49ers target Kyle Pitts franchise tagged by Falcons

The Witcher Online 1.11 is now available on PC

23 February 2026 at 22:24

Modders update The Witcher Online, making the multiplayer mod even better Last month, modders added online multiplayer to The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt’s PC version, creating The Witcher Online. This mod allows gamers to play through the entire game with their friends. With The Witcher Online, players can travel together, complete quests together, and […]

The post The Witcher Online 1.11 is now available on PC appeared first on OC3D.

Vfrog – Build and deploy computer vision models without expertise


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ITC Hotels Opens Its Thirtieth Welcomhotel in Mohali, Reinforcing Its Dominance in the Fast-Growing Tricity Region with an Exceptional Blend of Luxury and Convenience

23 February 2026 at 22:13
ITC Hotels Opens Its Thirtieth Welcomhotel in Mohali, Reinforcing Its Dominance in the Fast-Growing Tricity Region with an Exceptional Blend of Luxury and Convenience

ITC Hotels has opened its thirtieth Welcomhotel in Mohali, further solidifying its leadership in the rapidly growing Tricity region. This new property, strategically located near Chandigarh International Airport and CP67 Mall, offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience, catering to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel’s design and service offerings align with the brand’s reputation for excellence, reinforcing ITC Hotels’ commitment to providing premium hospitality in key markets. With the increasing demand for high-quality accommodations in Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali, the launch of this Welcomhotel not only strengthens ITC Hotels’ presence in the region but also reaffirms its dominance in the competitive hospitality sector. Whether for corporate events, weddings, or leisurely stays, the new property exemplifies the brand’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled guest experience in one of India’s most dynamic regions.

The Welcomhotel Mohali brings a fresh and contemporary approach to luxury hospitality, blending modern design with personalized service to create an exceptional guest experience. Inspired by the vibrant local culture and scenic surroundings, the hotel offers an immersive ambiance that reflects the unique character of the region. Whether you are visiting for business, attending a social event, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Welcomhotel Mohali provides an ideal setting for every occasion.

The property’s 113 rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed to provide guests with a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mohali. Each room combines contemporary aesthetics with advanced amenities to ensure comfort and convenience. Guests will enjoy spacious accommodations featuring elegant furnishings, modern technology, and stylish interiors, making it a perfect choice for both long stays and short visits. Whether for work or leisure, the hotel offers an environment where relaxation and productivity go hand in hand.

Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse dining options available at the hotel. Welcomhotel Mohali offers a variety of signature dining destinations that cater to a wide range of tastes. With an emphasis on both regional and global flavors, the hotel’s restaurants serve a mix of traditional Indian dishes and international delicacies, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The restaurants are designed to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, making them the perfect venue for both casual meals and special celebrations.

For those planning corporate events, conferences, or social gatherings, the hotel features versatile meeting and banquet spaces designed to accommodate a range of events. Whether it’s a boardroom meeting, an international conference, or a grand wedding reception, Welcomhotel Mohali offers fully equipped venues with cutting-edge technology and expert event support. The hotel’s dedicated staff ensures that each event is executed flawlessly, providing personalized service to meet the specific needs of every organizer.

In addition to its exceptional accommodations and event spaces, Welcomhotel Mohali places a strong emphasis on wellness, offering a comprehensive range of fitness and relaxation facilities. Guests can unwind and recharge in the fully equipped fitness center or indulge in the hotel’s wellness amenities that focus on both physical and mental well-being. The hotel’s holistic approach to wellness ensures that guests have everything they need to stay energized and refreshed throughout their stay.

As part of ITC Hotels’ ongoing expansion in the region, Welcomhotel Mohali is perfectly positioned to cater to the increasing demand for premium hospitality in the Tricity area. With its unique combination of luxury accommodations, world-class dining, cutting-edge event spaces, and wellness offerings, the hotel is set to become a sought-after destination for both business travelers and tourists alike. Whether you’re here for a corporate engagement, a wedding, or simply a relaxing break, Welcomhotel Mohali promises to deliver a memorable experience.

By opening this new property, ITC Hotels continues to build its presence in the rapidly growing Indian hospitality market. Welcomhotel Mohali exemplifies the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional quality and service, offering a luxurious stay for guests seeking unparalleled comfort and convenience in one of India’s most exciting regions.

Speaking at the occasion, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “The launch of Welcomhotel Mohali reflects our commitment to strengthening our presence in high-growth urban markets while delivering enriching experiences rooted in our renowned service excellence. Mohali’s location and its rapid evolution as a commercial, IT, and lifestyle hub makes it a strategic addition to brand Welcomhotel.”

Expressing joy at the hotel opening, Bhupinder Gujral, Managing Director, Gujrals Restaurants and Hotels Limited, stated, “We are proud to associate with ITC Hotels in bringing the Welcomhotel brand to Mohali. This project has been envisioned as a contemporary hospitality destination that complements the city’s dynamic growth while offering guests refined comfort and warm service. We believe Welcomhotel Mohali will emerge as a preferred address for both travellers and the local community.”

The hotel offers a diverse range of dining experiences, including the all-day WelcomCafé, Swizzle, an exclusive in-house bar, and the soon-to-be-launched Kebabs and Kurries. For those craving regional flavors, WelcomSthalika is a must-visit, showcasing a delectable selection of local delicacies. Highlights include mouthwatering dishes such as Makki ki Roti, Sarson ka Saag, Butter Chicken, Kadhai Paneer, and many more. To enhance the guest experience, the hotel also boasts recreational amenities including a swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a spa that will be opening soon.

The post ITC Hotels Opens Its Thirtieth Welcomhotel in Mohali, Reinforcing Its Dominance in the Fast-Growing Tricity Region with an Exceptional Blend of Luxury and Convenience appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Travel Chaos Hits Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: Delta, Southwest, United, and Frontier Face 140 Delays and 234 Cancellations Impacting Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and Major US Cities

23 February 2026 at 22:12
Travel Chaos Hits Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: Delta, Southwest, United, and Frontier Face 140 Delays and 234 Cancellations Impacting Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and Major US Cities
Travel Chaos Hits Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: Delta, Southwest, United, and Frontier Face 140 Delays and 234 Cancellations Impacting Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and Major US Cities

Major disruptions due to weather and other events are affecting flights to and from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. There are also numerous operational problems. They are responsible for 140 delayed flights and 234 canceled flights as of the most recent records from the airport. Disruptions are affecting airlines and passengers. Because of the far-reaching problems created by the delays and cancellations, their effects can also be seen in the tourism industry.

Impact on Airlines and Affected Cities
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport serves as a major hub for a number of airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. These airlines, along with others that operate at ATL, are among the most significantly impacted by the disruptions. Travelers from a variety of U.S. cities, including major urban centers such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami, are experiencing delays as flights are rerouted, rescheduled, or canceled entirely. Connecting flights are also suffering, creating a ripple effect of flight disruptions across the nation and even internationally.

Today, flight disruptions at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport have primarily affected several major airlines, with Delta Air Lines bearing the largest share of cancellations and delays. Delta had 132 cancellations, which accounts for 8% of its scheduled flights, and 76 delays, representing 5%. Other notable carriers affected include Republic Airlines, with 83% of its flights canceled but no delays, and Frontier, which saw 15 cancellations (10% of its flights) and 17 delays (11%). PSA Airlines, operating under American Airlines, also had a significant impact with 13 cancellations (52% of its flights) and 2 delays (8%). United Airlines reported 12 cancellations (24%) and just 1 delay (2%), while Endeavor Air, another Delta subsidiary, experienced 12 cancellations (5%) and 7 delays (3%).

In terms of low-cost carriers, Southwest had 10 cancellations (9%) and 5 delays (4%), while JetBlue reported 10 cancellations (62%) with no delays. Spirit Airlines had 5 cancellations (15%) and 4 delays (12%). Regional carriers such as SkyWest reported 4 cancellations (9%) but had a high percentage of delays, with 20 delays (45%). Several smaller airlines, including Jazz (ACA), Korean Air, Key Lime Air, Turkish Airlines, Avelo Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, reported single cancellations or delays. These disruptions have caused significant challenges for passengers and are expected to affect travelers’ schedules and the overall flow of air traffic through Hartsfield-Jackson today.

Passengers Affected and Disruptions
The number of passengers impacted by the disruptions is substantial. Based on the current delays and cancellations, thousands of passengers are experiencing difficulties in reaching their destinations on time. Passengers have reported extended waiting times, especially in security lines and gates, as they try to rebook their flights or adjust their schedules. In some cases, travelers have reported waiting for multiple hours at the airport, trying to secure the next available flight.

The travel experience is often one filled with uncertainty during such disruptions. Many passengers have been left stranded at ATL with no clear solution in sight, as delays and cancellations continue to grow. For some, the uncertainty surrounding the status of their flights has resulted in added stress and inconvenience. Rebooking options and alternative flight arrangements are limited due to the high volume of travelers trying to adjust their plans, further compounding the issue.

Impact on Tourism
Tourism in Atlanta and the surrounding region is also feeling the impact of the airport disruptions. With major international events and conventions scheduled throughout the year, Atlanta is one of the top destinations for both leisure and business travel. However, today’s disruptions may lead to short-term declines in tourism, as tourists face delays or altered schedules that affect their travel itineraries.

The tourism industry in Atlanta, particularly local hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, relies heavily on timely arrivals and departures. With the ongoing delays, local businesses in the tourism sector may experience cancellations and fewer arrivals, which could affect their revenue for the day. For example, international visitors may delay their planned activities due to missed flights, impacting the planned revenue streams for many local attractions.

Conclusion
Today’s challenges include Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, with 140 flight delays and 234 flight cancellations. Because they are so large and complex, they are susceptible to unplanned events and challenges. These types of challenges and problems are not just directed toward the airlines and the passengers, but also the larger, global tourism market. Travelers must monitor the flight status and also be ready for the inconvenience.

Passengers are facing severe operational challenges, so they are encouraged to make their own arrangements, and also consider the challenges that will occur to their plans. The airlines that are being affected will do thier best to adjust to the operational changes, but large disruptions are expected to occur throughout the entire operational day. Due to the fact that ATL is a major hub for travel, it is evident that the passengers and the larger travel industry are the most affected by the problems of today.

Source: Flightaware and Affected Airport

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Strategic Requests Made for EES Suspension Protocols to Protect European Travel Flow

23 February 2026 at 22:10
Strategic Requests Made for EES Suspension Protocols to Protect European Travel Flow
Aviation Industry Leaders Call for Flexibility in EU Entry-Exit System Implementation.

A significant shift in international travel protocols is currently being navigated as the Entry-Exit System (EES) nears its scheduled implementation across the European Union. Concerns have been raised by major air travel organizations regarding the potential for unprecedented congestion at border checkpoints. It is argued by industry stakeholders that the automated biometric system, while designed to enhance security, could inadvertently trigger logistical bottlenecks if rigid adherence to the new rules is maintained during periods of high traffic. Consequently, a formal appeal has been issued to EU policymakers to allow for the temporary suspension of these requirements under specific, high-pressure circumstances.

The movement is being spearheaded by prominent groups, including Airlines for Europe (A4E), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and ACI Europe. Through a joint communication, a plea for operational flexibility has been articulated to ensure that the transition to a digital border does not compromise the efficiency of global aviation networks. It is emphasized that the stability of the travel industry and the comfort of millions of passengers depend on the ability of member states to revert to manual processing when digital infrastructures become overwhelmed.

The Mechanics of the Entry-Exit System

The Entry-Exit System is envisioned as a sophisticated replacement for the traditional manual stamping of passports for non-EU citizens. Under this framework, biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, is to be captured at the point of entry into the Schengen Area. While the technical superiority of this method is acknowledged, the physical reality of processing thousands of travelers simultaneously presents a daunting challenge. The time required for each individual to register their data is significantly higher than that of a standard visual passport check.

Passive observations suggest that the infrastructure at many international gateways may not yet be fully optimized for this transition. The apprehension felt by airport operators stems from the fact that even a slight increase in processing time per passenger can result in exponential delays. By requesting the authority to suspend EES operations during peak surges, the organizations aim to provide a safety valve that prevents terminal overcrowding and ensures that security personnel can manage crowds effectively.

The Call for Strategic Flexibility

A centralized demand within the proposal is the establishment of a legal mechanism that empowers individual member states to pause EES requirements. This flexibility is viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury. It is suggested that the current legislative framework is too rigid, lacking the nuances required to handle real-world operational disruptions. If a system failure occurs or if arrival volumes exceed the physical capacity of a terminal, the ability to pivot back to established manual protocols is seen as the only viable solution to maintain order.

The dialogue between the aviation sector and the European Commission has focused on the criteria under which such suspensions could be triggered. It is argued that clear, harmonized guidelines must be established across all member states to avoid a fragmented approach. If one nation allows for a waiver while a neighboring country remains strict, the resulting confusion could further complicate the travel landscape. Consistency in the application of emergency measures is therefore highlighted as a priority.

Economic and Logistical Implications

The potential economic impact of border delays is a primary driver behind this collective action. The European tourism sector relies heavily on the seamless movement of people, and any perception of difficulty in entering the continent could deter international visitors. It is noted that long wait times at immigration desks often lead to missed connecting flights, which in turn creates a domino effect of delays across the global air traffic network. The financial burden of rebooking passengers and managing stranded travelers is a significant concern for airlines.

Furthermore, the logistical strain on airport staff cannot be overlooked. Personnel are being trained to manage the new biometric kiosks, yet the sheer volume of data being processed requires a level of system reliability that has yet to be proven at such a massive scale. The request for suspension rights is therefore also a request for a phased, realistic integration period where the human element of border control is not entirely superseded by unyielding digital mandates.

Addressing Security and Compliance Concerns

While the primary focus of the appeal is on operational flow, the integrity of border security remains a foundational element. It is clarified by the travel organizations that the request for suspension is not a request to bypass security, but rather a request to use alternative, proven methods of verification during emergencies. The security of the Schengen Area is supported, but it is argued that a crowded, chaotic terminal presents its own set of safety risks that must be balanced against the benefits of digital data collection.

The European Union’s goal of creating a more secure and transparent border is shared by the aviation industry. However, the path to achieving this goal is viewed as one that requires pragmatic adjustments. The data captured by the EES will eventually provide invaluable insights into migration patterns and overstay incidents, but these long-term benefits should not be pursued at the cost of immediate systemic collapse.

Future Outlook and Policy Deliberations

As the deadline for EES implementation approaches, the pressure on the European Commission to respond to these concerns is mounting. The dialogue remains ongoing, with technical experts from both the public and private sectors working to find a middle ground. It is expected that the coming months will see further refinements to the implementation strategy, potentially incorporating the contingency measures requested by the air travel groups.

The evolution of border technology is inevitable, yet the human experience of travel remains at the heart of the discussion. The success of the Entry-Exit System will ultimately be measured not just by the accuracy of the biometric data collected, but by its ability to coexist with the high-speed demands of modern aviation. The call for suspension protocols serves as a reminder that technology must serve the needs of the people and the industries that facilitate global connectivity.

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Thousands of Travellers Left Stranded as United, American Airlines, Delta, and Republic Face 252 Delays and 237 Cancellations at Chicago O’Hare, Affecting New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Major US cities

23 February 2026 at 22:10
Thousands of Travellers Left Stranded as United, American Airlines, Delta, and Republic Face 252 Delays and 237 Cancellations at Chicago O’Hare, Affecting New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Major US cities
Thousands of Travellers Left Stranded as United, American Airlines, Delta, and Republic Face Widespread Delays and Cancellations at Chicago O'Hare, Affecting New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Major US cities

There are huge problems at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, or ORD, that include 252 flight delays and 237 cancellations. This impacts travelers and the airline and tourism industries. Since O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the country, the disruptions are really bad for all the major cities, and small cities, that are connected to the hub by airline services, and the passengers and the airlines.

Affected Airlines

The flight disruptions at Chicago O’Hare International Airport have affected a variety of airlines, with varying levels of cancellations and delays. Among the most impacted is United Airlines, which saw 66 cancellations (10%) and 29 delays (4%). Republic Airlines experienced a 25% cancellation rate with 58 cancellations, along with 9 delays (4%). American Airlines had 47 cancellations (12%) and 22 delays (5%), while Envoy Air (AAL) reported 24 cancellations (5%) and 42 delays (9%).

Delta Air Lines had 8 cancellations (19%) and 3 delays (7%), while SkyWest Airlines had 8 cancellations (1%) but a significantly higher 89 delays (21%). Endeavor Air (DAL) saw all of its flights canceled, with a 100% cancellation rate and no delays. Spirit Airlines experienced 5 cancellations (14%) and 8 delays (23%). GoJet (UAL) had 4 cancellations (2%) and 18 delays (11%), while Frontier had 4 cancellations (13%) and 1 delay (3%).

Smaller carriers such as JetBlue had 4 cancellations (100%) with no delays, while PSA Airlines (AAL) saw 1 cancellation (4%) and 6 delays (24%). International carriers were also affected, including Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, EVA Air, and Japan Airlines, each with 1 cancellation and varying percentages of delays. Korean Air and LOT Polish Airlines had a 50% cancellation rate, while Jazz (ACA) reported 2 cancellations (16%) and 1 delay (50%).

Other international airlines, such as Southwest, Swiss, Emirates, and Contour Airlines, had minimal disruptions, with some experiencing delays or cancellations across a small portion of their flights. WestJet had 2 cancellations with a 100% rate, while All Nippon Airways experienced 2 cancellations (33%) and 3 delays (21%). Alaska Airlines reported 3 delays (21%) but no cancellations.

This extensive disruption highlights the broad impact across both domestic and international flights, severely affecting passengers and causing considerable delays throughout the day.

Affected Airports and Cities

The delays and cancellations at O’Hare are having a cascading effect on airports across the nation and beyond. Other major airports, including those in New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, have reported increased delays due to flights diverted or held up waiting for clearance from O’Hare. Additionally, smaller regional airports are seeing disruptions as a result of canceled connecting flights, making it harder for travelers to reach their destinations.

Cities impacted by the delays include Chicago itself, as well as popular tourist destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami. International flights from Europe, especially from London, Paris, and Frankfurt, are also affected. As passengers are stranded or redirected, these major cities are experiencing an influx of frustrated travelers, many of whom are unable to get to their original destinations on time.

Passengers Affected

Thousands of passengers are affected by the delays and cancellations at Chicago O’Hare today. As of the latest count, over 15,000 passengers have been impacted directly by flight cancellations, while many more are experiencing lengthy delays that have caused travel chaos for those hoping to reach their destinations. The majority of the delays are domestic, with a significant number of international flights also affected.

Many passengers have been left stranded at O’Hare, facing long waits for rebooking or alternate flight arrangements. As expected, travelers are experiencing heightened levels of frustration, with some having to endure multiple hours of waiting and uncertainty regarding when they will be able to continue their journeys. The situation has been exacerbated by crowded terminals, limited seating, and reduced services due to the high volume of passengers.

Impact on Tourism

The tourism industry is one of the hardest-hit sectors due to the O’Hare delays and cancellations. With Chicago being a key gateway for both domestic and international tourism, the ripple effects of today’s disruptions are likely to be felt across the country’s tourism economy.

Tourists hoping to visit Chicago’s iconic attractions, such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Navy Pier, may be forced to reschedule their plans or face significant delays. Likewise, Chicago’s position as a major connection hub for flights to international destinations means that delays are likely to have a global impact, affecting travelers heading to and from the U.S.

Beyond the immediate inconvenience for passengers, the economic fallout is expected to be significant. Hotels, restaurants, and local attractions in Chicago may face a decrease in foot traffic as visitors struggle to reach their destinations on time. Additionally, the broader U.S. tourism industry could feel the effects of missed connections and lost bookings.

Conclusion

Chicago O’Hare International Airport’s flight disruptions today are a stark reminder of how quickly air travel can be affected by delays and cancellations. The 252 delays and 237 cancellations have left thousands of passengers stranded, while also affecting airports and cities across the country. The ripple effect on tourism is also concerning, as visitors to Chicago and travelers relying on the airport to reach other destinations are facing difficulties in rescheduling and rebooking their flights.

Airlines, airports, and travel agencies will need to work quickly to accommodate the affected passengers and minimize the long-term impact on tourism. In the meantime, travelers are advised to stay updated through airline websites and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the latest information on flight statuses.

Source: Flightaware and Affected Airport

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Bangkok Launches Visit Bangkok as the Ultimate Digital Gateway to Discover the Hidden Gems, Rich Heritage, and Culinary Delights of Thailand’s Capital

23 February 2026 at 22:09
Bangkok Launches Visit Bangkok as the Ultimate Digital Gateway to Discover the Hidden Gems, Rich Heritage, and Culinary Delights of Thailand’s Capital

Bangkok is calling! Thailand’s capital has officially launched its latest tourism initiative, “Visit Bangkok”, designed to be the definitive digital gateway to the world’s favorite city. Known for its rich heritage, modern innovation, and bustling atmosphere, Bangkok continues to captivate visitors from all corners of the globe. With the launch of this new platform, travelers can now connect with the heart of this vibrant metropolis through a digital companion that offers an authentic, local perspective.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched “Visit Bangkok” with the goal of providing tourists with a seamless way to explore all the iconic elements that make the city an unforgettable destination. Combining five distinct digital platforms, “Visit Bangkok” aims to connect travelers with the pulse of the city. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or returning for yet another adventure, this new initiative provides a tailored experience to suit every traveler’s journey.

Discover the Wonders of Bangkok Through Unique Lenses

There is no better way to experience the soul of Bangkok than through four distinct themes that are central to the city’s appeal. Each theme gives visitors a unique view of the city’s most celebrated features, offering a fresh perspective that caters to every type of explorer.

The Global Culinary Capital: A Taste of Bangkok

Bangkok is often hailed as the “Foodie Paradise” of the world, and for good reason. From street food stalls sizzling with aromatic Thai spices to elegant, Michelin-starred restaurants offering panoramic views of the city, Bangkok offers a food scene like no other. Whether you’re indulging in a fragrant bowl of Pad Thai or exploring the flavors of the world in the form of international cuisine, Bangkok’s diverse food culture promises to delight and surprise. Through “Visit Bangkok”, travelers can dive deep into the food scene and uncover hidden gems and well-known culinary hotspots across the city.

The Harmony of Traditions and Innovation

In Bangkok, ancient traditions and futuristic innovation live in perfect harmony. Glimmering golden temples, such as the Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, stand proudly alongside some of the world’s most modern shopping malls and high-tech spaces. “Visit Bangkok” provides insight into how the city bridges the gap between its rich heritage and its bold, modern ambitions. Visitors can explore the magnificence of historical sites like the Grand Palace while experiencing the vibrant energy of contemporary cultural hubs.

Discover the Wonders of Bangkok Through Unique Lenses

There is no better way to experience the soul of Bangkok than through four distinct themes that are central to the city’s appeal. Each theme gives visitors a unique view of the city’s most celebrated features, offering a fresh perspective that caters to every type of explorer.

The Global Culinary Capital: A Taste of Bangkok

Bangkok is often hailed as the “Foodie Paradise” of the world, and for good reason. From street food stalls sizzling with aromatic Thai spices to elegant, Michelin-starred restaurants offering panoramic views of the city, Bangkok offers a food scene like no other. Whether you’re indulging in a fragrant bowl of Pad Thai or exploring the flavors of the world in the form of international cuisine, Bangkok’s diverse food culture promises to delight and surprise. Through “Visit Bangkok”, travelers can dive deep into the food scene and uncover hidden gems and well-known culinary hotspots across the city.

The Harmony of Traditions and Innovation

In Bangkok, ancient traditions and futuristic innovation live in perfect harmony. Glimmering golden temples, such as the Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, stand proudly alongside some of the world’s most modern shopping malls and high-tech spaces. “Visit Bangkok” provides insight into how the city bridges the gap between its rich heritage and its bold, modern ambitions. Visitors can explore the magnificence of historical sites like the Grand Palace while experiencing the vibrant energy of contemporary cultural hubs.

Asia’s Beating Heart for Events and Festivals

As the beating heart of Asia, Bangkok pulses with exciting events and festivals year-round. Whether it’s the lively Songkran (Thai New Year) festival, the majestic Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), or the energy-filled Muay Thai boxing matches, Bangkok offers an unending calendar of celebrations. For music lovers, global music festivals often take center stage in the city’s cultural scene. “Visit Bangkok” allows visitors to stay updated on the best events happening throughout the year, ensuring they don’t miss out on a chance to celebrate in style.

An Ever-Evolving Discovery: Bangkok’s Hidden Gems

Beyond its famous attractions, Bangkok is a city that constantly evolves. The bustling streets are filled with secret cafes, quirky art galleries, pop-up shops, and hidden neighborhoods waiting to be discovered. “Visit Bangkok” invites travelers to step off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known wonders of this dynamic city. From quiet corners to vibrant backstreets, there is always something new to find in Bangkok—whether it’s a local market, a creative space, or a secret rooftop bar.

Stay Connected with Bangkok’s Pulse: Official Digital Channels

In today’s digital age, staying connected to the city’s energy is easier than ever. “Visit Bangkok” offers five official digital platforms for visitors to stay in the loop with everything happening in the city. Travelers can find all the information they need on:

  • Official Website
  • Facebook: VisitBangkok
  • TikTok: VisitBangkok
  • Instagram: visitbangkok_official
  • YouTube: visitbangkok_official

These platforms offer a range of curated content, from event updates to local stories, allowing visitors to stay connected to Bangkok’s evolving landscape wherever they are. With the touch of a button, you can access detailed itineraries, tips from locals, and real-time information about what’s happening around the city.

Why Bangkok Should Be on Your Travel List

From its rich cultural heritage to its modern-day vibrancy, Bangkok offers an unforgettable travel experience. With “Visit Bangkok”, the city has now taken its tourism offering to a new level, making it easier for travelers to explore and connect with the city in an authentic and dynamic way. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or a culture enthusiast, Bangkok has something for everyone.

“Visit Bangkok” is more than just a guide—it’s a journey through the essence of Thailand’s capital, a city that has long been a favorite among travelers. The launch of this new digital gateway means that visitors can experience Bangkok’s soul from wherever they are, before they even set foot in the city. So, whether you’re planning a well-structured itinerary or looking for spontaneous adventure, “Visit Bangkok” ensures that you’ll never miss out on the best the city has to offer.

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Caribbean Travel Disruptions as JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, and Air France Face 38 Delays and 13 Cancellations Affecting Flights to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and Other Destination

23 February 2026 at 22:07
Caribbean Travel Disruptions as JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, and Air France Face 38 Delays and 13 Cancellations Affecting Flights to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and Other Destination
Caribbean Travel Disruptions as JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, and Air France Face 38 Delays and 13 Cancellations Affecting Flights to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and Other Destination

Currently, Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten, one of the busiest and most prominent airports in the Caribbean, is severely operationally disrupted for the day. As of this writing, the airport has 38 delays and 13 cancellations. Worries about the negative consequences on the people traveling, surrounding municipalities, airlines, the region of St. Maarten, and the tourism of the impacted area have arisen. This article will describe the operational disruption, the affected areas, and the implications regarding travel and tourism.

Passengers Affected by Delays and Cancellations
With 38 flight delays and 13 cancellations reported at Princess Juliana International, passengers are facing considerable inconvenience. Flights arriving and departing from SXM are experiencing long wait times, forcing travelers to re-schedule their plans. For passengers, this means prolonged waiting at the airport, missed connections, and unexpected changes in travel itineraries. The delays and cancellations create a ripple effect, not only frustrating travelers but also affecting their plans, whether they are business travelers, tourists, or families.

Each delay or cancellation disrupts the intricate web of air traffic, causing further delays to connecting flights at other international airports. Passengers traveling to and from SXM are advised to monitor their flight statuses closely through their airlines or the airport’s official platforms to avoid confusion and frustration.

Affected Cities and Airports
The disruptions at Princess Juliana International Airport have repercussions far beyond the airport grounds. Neighboring cities and airports in the Caribbean region are feeling the impact as the delays and cancellations cause ripple effects across the travel network. Other major airports in the region, including those in Aruba (AUA), Sint Maarten (SXM), and Puerto Rico (SJU), are likely experiencing a cascade of delays as airlines try to accommodate affected passengers.

Cities like Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten, and nearby towns such as Simpson Bay, are dealing with the direct impact on their economy and transportation infrastructure. Local transportation services have been stretched as more passengers seek alternative routes to their destinations. The disruption has not only affected the flow of travelers to and from the region but also created challenges for local communities supporting tourism-related businesses.

Airlines Affected
The primary airlines serving Princess Juliana International are also feeling the brunt of today’s operational issues. Carriers like American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta Airlines, and Air France, which frequently operate out of SXM, have faced significant flight disruptions. These major international airlines, along with smaller regional carriers, have been forced to delay or cancel flights, creating a backlog of passengers waiting to reach their destinations.

By Airline:

  1. JetBlue – 75% of their flights cancelled, no delays.
  2. United – 100% cancellations, no delays.
  3. Delta Air Lines – 50% cancellations, 25% delays.
  4. American Airlines – 20% cancellations, no delays.
  5. Winair – 1% cancellations, 30% delays.
  6. Air Century – 50% cancellations, no delays.
  7. Air Caraïbes – 50% cancellations, no delays.
  8. KLM – 50% cancellations, no delays.
  9. St Barth Commuter – 1% cancellations, 1% delays.
  10. WestJet – 50% cancellations, no delays.
  11. Air Canada – 100% cancellations, no delays.
  12. Anguilla Air Services – 6% cancellations, no delays.

Impact on Tourism
Tourism is an integral part of the economy in Sint Maarten, and Princess Juliana International Airport plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth flow of visitors to the island. The ongoing delays and cancellations come at a crucial time for the tourism industry. Tourists arriving to enjoy the pristine beaches, duty-free shopping, and vibrant culture are facing difficulties reaching their destinations, which can impact their vacation experience. The delays also contribute to an increase in stress levels, especially for those visiting for short-term stays or who have limited time on the island.

Local hotels, restaurants, and tour operators may also experience a decline in bookings or face increased demands for last-minute accommodations as travelers look for alternatives. Additionally, there is potential for a drop in the overall number of arrivals, which can lead to longer-term economic repercussions for businesses relying on tourism.

Conclusion
The significant delays and cancellations at Princess Juliana International Airport serve as a reminder of how vital it is for airports and airlines to maintain operational efficiency, especially in destinations that depend heavily on tourism. Today’s situation, affecting numerous passengers, airlines, and local communities, underscores the interconnectedness of the global travel system and how disruptions in one region can create a chain reaction across the globe.

Travelers that are going to and from Princess Juliana International Airport should be prepared for constant changes and plan accordingly. Travelers should check the flight status on the airport website as well as their airline to keep current on flight changes. The travel industry will be affected immediately and will continue to be affected until normal travel schedules return and how the region copes with the disruptions.

With proper management and resources directed towards the current situation, the region will be able to reduce the challenges and impacts on travel while restoring the confidence of travelers. For now, it is best prepared and adjust to the situation as it continues to evolve.

Source: Flightaware and affected Airport

The post Caribbean Travel Disruptions as JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, and Air France Face 38 Delays and 13 Cancellations Affecting Flights to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and Other Destination appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Travellers Grounded In El Salvador Today as El Salvador International Airport Faced 14 Cancelled Flights and 6 Delays, Disrupting Avianca El Salvador, Avianca Costa Rica, Amerijet International And Others Across Los Angeles, Boston, Washington, And More

23 February 2026 at 22:07
Travellers Grounded In El Salvador Today as El Salvador International Airport Faced 14 Cancelled Flights and 6 Delays, Disrupting Avianca El Salvador, Avianca Costa Rica, Amerijet International And Others Across Los Angeles, Boston, Washington, And More

Travelers at El Salvador International Airport (SAL) are facing significant disruption as 14 flight cancellations and 6 delays were recorded today, with all cancellations tied to U.S.-connected services. The airlines most affected include Avianca El Salvador (8 cancellations, 3 delays), Avianca Costa Rica (4 cancellations), and United Airlines (2 cancellations, 2 delays). Amerijet International (1 delay) also reported operational impact.
Major U.S. airports affected include John F. Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, and Washington Dulles International Airport, alongside disruption involving George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Norman Manley International Airport, Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, and El Dorado International Airport.
The concentration of cancellations on U.S.-linked routes due to the blizzard has left hundreds of passengers adjusting plans across Central America and the United States.

  • Updated today: 14 cancellations and 6 delays reported at El Salvador International Airport.
  • All 14 cancellations are linked to U.S.-connected flights.
  • Avianca El Salvador recorded the highest number of disruptions.
  • New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX) are among the hardest-hit U.S. gateways.
  • Multiple U.S. airports including Boston, Washington Dulles, and Houston are affected.
  • Regional connections to Managua, Kingston, and Bogotá also experienced delays.

Airlines Most Affected by Flight Cancellations and Delays

Avianca El Salvador

The carrier reported 8 cancellations and 3 delays, representing the largest operational impact among airlines at SAL today.

Avianca Costa Rica

A total of 4 cancellations were recorded, with no delays reported.

United Airlines

The U.S. carrier logged 2 cancellations and 2 delays, affecting services linked to major American hubs.

Amerijet International

The airline recorded 1 delay, contributing to the broader disruption picture.

What can affected passengers do?

  • Check flight status directly with the airline before heading to the airport. Airport display boards may not always reflect real-time operational changes. Use the airline’s official website or mobile app to verify departure times, gate assignments, aircraft changes, and any last-minute schedule adjustments.
  • Rebook through official airline apps or customer service channels. Digital platforms typically provide the fastest self-service rebooking options during disruptions. If online tools are unavailable, contact the airline’s call center or approach airport service desks early, as queues can grow quickly during widespread cancellations.
  • Monitor SMS or email notifications for schedule changes. Ensure your contact details are correctly updated in your booking so you receive automated alerts about cancellations, delays, reassignments, or alternate routing options. Push notifications through airline apps can also provide quicker updates than email.
  • Review compensation or re-accommodation policies for canceled services. Airlines may offer rebooking on the next available flight, travel vouchers, meal assistance, or hotel accommodation depending on the situation and local regulations. Check fare conditions and applicable passenger rights policies before making independent alternative bookings.

Overview of Flight Disruptions

Flight operations at El Salvador International Airport experienced concentrated disruption on routes connecting the United States and Central America. Airlines including Avianca El Salvador, Avianca Costa Rica, United Airlines, and Amerijet International reported operational interruptions, with the majority centered on U.S.-linked services.

Key U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Washington, and Houston saw ripple effects, particularly through John F. Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport. Disruption also extended regionally to Managua in Nicaragua, Kingston in Jamaica, and Bogotá in Colombia.

The heaviest concentration of cancellations remains tied to U.S.-connected services, while a smaller number of delays impacted both North American and regional Caribbean routes. As operations continue to adjust, passengers traveling between El Salvador and major U.S. hubs may experience ongoing schedule changes.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware

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Vormsi Island Ice Road Becomes Vital Link for Residents and Winter Tourists, Enhancing Access During Ferry Disruptions and Boosting Winter Tourism Growth in Estonia

23 February 2026 at 22:05
Vormsi Island Ice Road Becomes Vital Link for Residents and Winter Tourists, Enhancing Access During Ferry Disruptions and Boosting Winter Tourism Growth in Estonia

Vormsi, an island in the Baltic Sea, has implemented a unique system that enables local residents to cut queues and use the ice road that leads to the Estonian mainland. This has been implemented due to the suspension of ferry services for over a week because of unpredictable weather conditions.

The ice road was reopened after eight years and has not only been of great importance to the local residents but has also become a popular destination for winter tourists. Although it normally carries 100 vehicles per day, on February 21st, 160 vehicles passed through the ice road in a matter of a few hours. However, due to rising air temperatures, there are doubts about how long this winter tourist destination will continue to operate.

A Special Sticker System for Locals and Winter Tourism Management

To streamline access for Vormsi residents, the local authorities have issued special stickers that allow them to bypass queues, especially during weekends when tourism traffic is highest. These stickers ensure that locals can efficiently travel to and from the island, helping to balance the needs of residents and tourists.

As winter tourism grows in Estonia, this initiative helps ensure that locals are not hindered by the influx of visitors. Erki Savisaar, the mayor of Vormsi, emphasized that the stickers were designed for weekend use, anticipating an increase in tourist arrivals. With around 180 island residents and 100 car stickers issued, the system aims to ensure that Vormsi residents can access essential services while managing the growing popularity of the island among winter tourists.

The opening of the ice road has proven to be a boon for winter tourism in Estonia, offering tourists a unique experience of traveling across the Baltic Sea. As Vormsi becomes an increasingly attractive destination for winter travelers, the ice road’s role in tourism management is becoming more significant, providing tourists with access to a winter wonderland, while ensuring that residents are not left waiting in long lines.

Safety, Tourism, and the Challenges of Ice Road Travel

The arrival of winter tourists has brought not only increased interest in Vormsi but also some tensions among locals. Tourists have been criticized for not always following the speed limits and the rule that requires 250 meters of distance between vehicles. While the ice road remains a vital tourist route, safety concerns have emerged due to speeding and drivers skidding on the ice. The growing number of vehicles on the road raises the risk of accidents, particularly with the influx of tourists unfamiliar with driving in harsh winter conditions.

Despite these challenges, the winter tourism sector in Estonia continues to grow. As Vormsi becomes an increasingly popular destination for winter travel, particularly for those seeking a unique winter experience, the ice road serves as a crucial link. However, the management of this influx requires careful coordination to ensure that both residents and tourists can enjoy the road safely.

The Role of Ice Roads in Winter Tourism Growth

The ice road across the Baltic Sea is a striking example of how winter tourism can thrive, even when more traditional travel routes, like ferry services, are unavailable. Estonia’s unique winter travel infrastructure offers tourists a rare chance to experience icy roads and winter landscapes in a way few other destinations can match.

With tourists eager to explore the frozen expanses of the Baltic Sea, the ice road offers a thrilling winter adventure, making Vormsi an increasingly popular choice for those seeking unconventional winter travel experiences. In addition to the ice road, tourists can enjoy other winter activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and experiencing the local culture and traditions. The growing popularity of Vormsi among winter tourists presents a significant opportunity for local businesses and the tourism sector to expand their offerings.

Boosting Winter Tourism and Managing Local Traffic

The Vormsi ice road is an important part of Estonian winter tourism, as it gives locals and tourists alike the chance to connect with the mainland. Although Vormsi remains a popular destination for winter tourists, it is important that the flow of traffic, as well as the impact of tourism, be managed in such a way that the ice road remains a viable and enjoyable route for all.

As the popularity of the ice road continues to rise, it is likely that winter tourism in Vormsi will continue to grow, making a significant contribution to the Estonian tourism industry. Vormsi faces the challenges of the growth of winter tourism, it presents a unique case study of how winter travel infrastructure can be used to create a memorable experience for tourists while also contributing to the economic development of local communities.

The post Vormsi Island Ice Road Becomes Vital Link for Residents and Winter Tourists, Enhancing Access During Ferry Disruptions and Boosting Winter Tourism Growth in Estonia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Travel Disruption in Germany as Over a Dozen Flights Are Cancelled Including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, Brussels Airlines, and More Major Airlines Affecting Routes to Newark, JFK, Copenhagen, and More – New Update You Need to Know

23 February 2026 at 22:05
Travel Disruption in Germany as Over a Dozen Flights Are Cancelled Including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, Brussels Airlines, and More Major Airlines Affecting Routes to Newark, JFK, Copenhagen, and More – New Update You Need to Know

Travelers in Germany are facing significant disruptions as multiple flights from the country’s busiest airports have been canceled. The affected routes include major destinations such as Newark Liberty Intl, John F Kennedy Intl, Copenhagen, and Malpensa Int’l, impacting both transatlantic and European travel. In total, 15 departures were canceled across Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, and Dusseldorf this week.

Frankfurt Airport Delays Affect Key Transatlantic and European Routes

Frankfurt International Airport (EDDF) reported multiple cancellations over the past week, affecting both long-haul and short-haul flights.

Key canceled departures include:

  • UAL75 to Newark Liberty Intl (KEWR) – Monday and Tuesday at 5:15 PM CET
  • CFG2016 to John F Kennedy Intl (KJFK) – Monday at 11:15 AM CET
  • UAL43 to Newark Liberty Intl (KEWR) – Monday at 11:05 AM CET
  • DAL8836 to Malpensa Int’l (MXP / LIMC) – Monday at 9:50 AM CET
  • BCY676 to Copenhagen (CPH / EKCH) – Sunday at 3:15 PM CET
  • SVS640 to Copenhagen (CPH / EKCH) – Sunday at 10:30 AM CET

Passengers traveling from Frankfurt should monitor airline communications due to these disruptions, which have already caused congestion at check-in areas and security lines. These Frankfurt airport delays highlight ongoing challenges in managing high-demand international routes.

Munich Flight Disruptions Hit Transatlantic Travelers

At Munich International Airport (EDDM), flights to major U.S. destinations were also canceled.

Canceled flights at Munich include:

  • UAL31 to Newark Liberty Intl (KEWR) – Monday at 9:20 AM CET
  • DLH410 to John F Kennedy Intl (KJFK) – Sunday at 12:45 PM CET

These Munich flight disruptions primarily affect transatlantic connections, with passengers facing rescheduling headaches and potential delays for onward journeys. Airlines have advised travelers to rebook promptly to avoid further inconvenience.

Berlin Flight Cancellations Disrupt East German Travel

Berlin-Brandenburg Airport (EDDB) has experienced flight interruptions this week, especially on routes to the United States and Europe.

Key canceled departures in Berlin:

  • UAL963 to Newark Liberty Intl (KEWR) – Monday and Tuesday at 9:55 AM CET
  • SVS1674 to Copenhagen (CPH / EKCH) – Monday at 10:10 AM CET

The Berlin flight cancellations highlight the strain on scheduling for airlines operating from the capital, with potential ripple effects on connecting flights and regional travelers.

Dusseldorf Airport News Highlights Short-Haul Disruptions

Dusseldorf International Airport (EDDL) reported cancellations on European short-haul routes.

Canceled flight at Dusseldorf:

  • BCY1622 to Copenhagen (CPH / EKCH) – Sunday at 3:25 PM CET

Travelers relying on Dusseldorf airport news should stay informed about rebookings or alternative routing options to avoid extended delays.

Summary of All Cancellations

AirportFlight IdentAircraftDestinationDeparture (CET)
Frankfurt EDDFUAL75B763Newark Liberty IntlMon 05:15 PM, Tue 05:15 PM
Frankfurt EDDFCFG2016A339John F Kennedy IntlMon 11:15 AM
Frankfurt EDDFUAL43B77WNewark Liberty IntlMon 11:05 AM
Frankfurt EDDFDAL8836A333Malpensa Int’lMon 09:50 AM
Frankfurt EDDFBCY676CRJ9CopenhagenSun 03:15 PM
Frankfurt EDDFSVS640E190CopenhagenSun 10:30 AM
Munich EDDMUAL31B764Newark Liberty IntlMon 09:20 AM
Munich EDDMDLH410A359John F Kennedy IntlSun 12:45 PM
Berlin EDDBUAL963B764Newark Liberty IntlMon & Tue 09:55 AM
Berlin EDDBSVS1674E190CopenhagenMon 10:10 AM
Dusseldorf EDDLBCY1622CRJ9CopenhagenSun 03:25 PM

Total Cancellations: 15
Affected Destinations: Newark Liberty Intl, John F Kennedy Intl, Copenhagen, Malpensa Int’l

Patterns and Implications of Germany Flight Cancellations

Analyzing the recent cancellations reveals notable trends:

  • High concentration on transatlantic routes: Newark Liberty Intl (KEWR) and John F Kennedy Intl (KJFK) were among the most affected destinations, with multiple flights canceled from Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.
  • European short-haul routes also impacted: Copenhagen (CPH / EKCH) and Malpensa Int’l (MXP / LIMC) experienced cancellations, affecting weekend and early-week travelers.
  • Multiple airports affected simultaneously: Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, and Dusseldorf all reported disruptions, reflecting widespread operational pressures.

These cancellations may create cascading effects, including delays on connecting flights, airport congestion, and rescheduling challenges for passengers. Travelers are advised to check airline notifications frequently and consider alternative flights where possible.

Practical Tips for Affected Passengers

Passengers impacted by Germany flight cancellations can take several steps to reduce travel disruptions:

  • Monitor airline updates via email, SMS, and official apps.
  • Rebook flights in advance or consider alternative airports.
  • Arrive at airports early to navigate potential congestion caused by cancellations.
  • Confirm onward connections, particularly for transatlantic flights to Newark or JFK.

The focus of cancellations on key destinations like Newark Liberty Intl highlights the vulnerability of international routes to operational and staffing pressures.

Looking Ahead

With Germany flight cancellations affecting multiple airports and major international routes, airlines may need to adjust scheduling practices, improve communication, and manage airport congestion proactively. Passengers traveling from Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, or Dusseldorf should stay informed to avoid last-minute disruptions, especially on transatlantic and popular European routes.

These disruptions emphasize how even minor operational issues can cascade across major hubs, impacting thousands of travelers and requiring quick adaptation by airlines, airports, and passengers alike. By remaining proactive and monitoring updates, travelers can minimize inconvenience despite widespread cancellations.

The post Travel Disruption in Germany as Over a Dozen Flights Are Cancelled Including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, Brussels Airlines, and More Major Airlines Affecting Routes to Newark, JFK, Copenhagen, and More – New Update You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

TUI Strengthens Arctic Network as Over 60,000 Winter Travelers Head to Lapland and New Boeing 737-8 “Kuusamo” Joins Northern Finland Fleet

23 February 2026 at 22:05
TUI Strengthens Arctic Network as Over 60,000 Winter Travelers Head to Lapland and New Boeing 737-8 “Kuusamo” Joins Northern Finland Fleet
Boeing 737-8

Finland continues to hold a strategic place in TUI’s global network, serving both as a strong outbound market and a highly sought-after holiday destination. Among its standout regions, Lapland remains one of the company’s most in-demand winter escapes, drawing travelers eager to experience Arctic landscapes, snow-covered forests, and seasonal adventures. Demand shows no signs of slowing. During the current winter season, TUI is scheduled to transport more than 60,000 holidaymakers to Northern Finland, with the majority arriving from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

The steady growth of winter tourism to the region reflects a broader shift in traveler preferences. Increasingly, visitors are seeking immersive cold-weather experiences rather than traditional sun-and-sand holidays. Lapland’s unique blend of nature, culture, and outdoor adventure has positioned it as a premier winter destination across Europe. Direct flight connections operated by TUI have made remote northern towns more accessible, supporting both tourism growth and regional development.

Marking this ongoing commitment, TUI has introduced another Boeing 737-8 aircraft bearing the name of a Northern Finnish destination. The latest addition to the fleet has been christened “Kuusamo,” becoming the fourth aircraft to carry the name of a town in Lapland. Previous aircraft were named “Kittilä” in 2018, “Rovaniemi” in 2022, and “Ivalo” in 2024. The naming tradition underscores the close partnership between the airline and Northern Finland’s tourism industry.

The official naming ceremony took place at Kuusamo Airport on a crisp winter Sunday, providing a fitting backdrop of snow and Arctic light. The event gathered representatives from the local tourism community, including hotel operators, excursion providers, regional tourism officials, and airport leadership. The occasion highlighted the collaborative efforts that have helped transform Kuusamo into a recognized winter hotspot.

The aircraft’s arrival was met with enthusiasm as it touched down against a landscape blanketed in white. The new Boeing 737-8 symbolizes both increased capacity and a long-term investment in the region. By branding aircraft with destination names, TUI reinforces the visibility of these northern towns in key European markets, strengthening their identity among travelers planning winter getaways.

Following the ceremony, the aircraft departed with passengers returning home after their Arctic holidays. Many carried memories shaped by classic Lapland experiences: dog sledding through silent forests, snowmobile safaris across frozen terrain, and encounters with reindeer in their natural environment. These signature activities have become central to the region’s tourism appeal, offering visitors authentic glimpses into life in the far north.

Kuusamo, in particular, has built a strong reputation for combining wilderness adventure with comfortable hospitality. The nearby Ruka ski area attracts winter sports enthusiasts, while guided nature tours introduce visitors to pristine national parks and icy river landscapes. The town’s infrastructure has steadily evolved to meet rising demand, with accommodations, restaurants, and activity services expanding in recent years.

TUI’s expanded operations are expected to further boost the local economy. Increased flight frequency supports hotels, tour operators, and small businesses that rely on seasonal tourism. For many communities in Northern Finland, winter travel represents a crucial economic pillar. Reliable air connections from major European cities ensure that Lapland remains competitive in a global market where travelers have a growing array of cold-climate options.

Sustainability also plays an increasingly important role in the region’s tourism strategy. Modern aircraft such as the Boeing 737-8 are designed to be more fuel-efficient and produce lower emissions compared to older models. As environmental awareness rises among travelers, airlines and destinations alike are under pressure to balance growth with responsible operations. Northern Finland has emphasized preserving its fragile Arctic ecosystems while welcoming visitors.

The symbolic naming of aircraft after Lapland destinations reflects more than branding. It represents a partnership built over years of cooperation between local authorities, tourism stakeholders, and the airline industry. By aligning flight capacity with destination marketing, both sides strengthen their position in the competitive European winter travel market.

With more than 60,000 holidaymakers expected to arrive this season alone, Lapland’s status as a winter tourism leader appears secure. Towns such as Kuusamo continue to gain international recognition, supported by reliable air links and coordinated promotion efforts. As travelers search for authentic seasonal experiences — from snowy adventures to Arctic serenity — Northern Finland remains firmly on the map.

The arrival of the newly named aircraft signals confidence in sustained demand and the enduring appeal of the far north. For TUI and for Lapland, the partnership continues to evolve, carrying thousands of visitors each winter into landscapes defined by snow, silence, and unforgettable Arctic moments.

TUI is a very important travel operator for Kuusamo. Last year, overnight stays by international visitors increased by as much as 14.2 percent, and in December their share was 70 percent of all overnight stays. TUI has played a key role in this growth. Having an aircraft named after Kuusamo is a true honour for us, says Jouko Manninen, Mayor of Kuusamo

TUI holds an important position in Finnish tourism, and it is wonderful to see that travel to the stunning landscapes of Kuusamo continues to grow in popularity. We warmly welcome all TUI guests to Kuusamo and Kuusamo Airport!,says Petri Vuori, SVP, Route Development, Finavia.

Our local partnerships are taking to the skies. Our new aircraft will be named after destinations across our holiday and partner countries, bringing the spirit of these regions into the heart of our fleet.

Tourism is more than travel; it connects people, regions and cultures, creating lasting bonds and shared opportunity. By giving our TUI Airline aircraft the names of our partner destinations, each plane becomes a flying ambassador, symbolising collaboration, celebrating local identity, and showcasing the strength of our relationships. With every take-off and landing, these aircraft will carry not only travellers, but the story of connection that unites us., says Aage Dünhaupt, Director Communications Holiday Experiences & Airline, TUI

This winter season has been record‑breaking, and a large share of travelers arrive in Kuusamo on TUI’s flights. The aircraft named Kuusamo will surely continue to bring back all those wonderful memories for passengers, says Sari PäivärintaManager of Kuusamo Airport.

The post TUI Strengthens Arctic Network as Over 60,000 Winter Travelers Head to Lapland and New Boeing 737-8 “Kuusamo” Joins Northern Finland Fleet appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Take a first look at Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra camera shots

23 February 2026 at 21:21

Samsung is going to launch the Galaxy S26 series on 25 February 2026. Even before the company officially launches it, the Galaxy S26 Ultra has been seen online. Some early photos taken with the Galaxy S26 Ultra are now available, which gives fans a first look at its camera performance.

Content creator Sahil Karoul shared several photos taken from the Galaxy S26 Ultra on X. The pictures show grocery store fruits and vegetables, yellow flowers, and a person’s portrait.

He also shared some comparison photos with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, including a nighttime building shot. From these pictures, the Galaxy S26 Ultra images look a little brighter and sharper than the S25 Ultra. Karoul did not say which camera lens was used for each shot.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera image leak Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera image leak

However, leaks suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra may have wider camera apertures. The main 200MP camera may have f/1.4 (previously f/1.7), and the 5x zoom camera may have f/2.9 (previously f/3.4). Wider apertures let more light in, which can make photos brighter and clearer.

10x Zoom
S25u vs S26u pic.twitter.com/u10BT9qTyC

— Sahil Karoul (@KaroulSahil) February 23, 2026

Samsung will officially launch the Galaxy S26 series at Galaxy Unpacked later this week. These early photos give a first idea of how the cameras perform.

For now, these leaked images give fans a sneak peek at the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera improvements and photo quality. With the launch just days away, people are excited to see the full features of Samsung’s newest flagship phone. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

The post Take a first look at Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra camera shots appeared first on Sammy Fans.

This AMD Ryzen 5 processor we tested bucks the AI trend: The CPU without an NPU

When it comes to new tech, AI is everywhere. However, in some instances, you can still find products that forgo the controversial technology completely. The Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 2 AMD, an affordable business laptop, is such a product, if you configure it with the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 215.

Path of Exile co-creator defends Diablo 2: Resurrected’s $25 Reign of the Warlock DLC paywall

Path of Exile co-creator Chris Wilson has defended Blizzard’s $25 Reign of the Warlock DLC for Diablo II: Resurrected, arguing that paywalling certain quality-of-life updates reflects an effort to preserve the original game as a “museum-piece baseline,” rather than a push for extra revenue.

Asus releases new 14-inch laptop before global launch

23 February 2026 at 20:40
Asus has released one of its most lightweight 14-inch laptops. Available in the UK with a global launch to follow, the new release takes advantage of Intel's Panther Lake architecture with an even larger battery than last year's model. The new Zenbook S14 may offer worse graphics performance than its predecessor, though.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate could add World of Warcraft, Minecraft, and other subscriptions

23 February 2026 at 20:40
Managing multiple subscriptions can be a burden for devoted gamers. A new rumor suggests that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate may cover the cost of World of Warcraft, Minecraft Realms, and Fallout 1st. The service has faced criticism over price increases and the lack of enticing day-one Xbox games.

Three new Casio Edifice mechanical watches on the way

23 February 2026 at 20:31
Casio has unveiled the Edifice EFK-110, a new mechanical watch, in Europe. This analog timepiece uses a new automatic movement from the brand, with a 42-hour power reserve. Other features of these watches include a carbon-look dial, a transparent case back, and a metal casing and bracelet.

Motorola officially confirms the Edge 70 Fusion's main specs, shows all the colors

23 February 2026 at 21:18

Motorola's upcoming Edge 70 Fusion has been leaking a lot lately, and a few days ago the company showed us the rear finishes of the three colorways and told us the device would have a Sony-made main camera sensor. Today Motorola is revealing even more, starting with that 50MP main camera which is using the Sony Lytia 710 sensor. Meanwhile, the Flipkart microsite for the Edge 70 Fusion is also live now, and it shows us the phone in all three colors: Pantone Silhouette, Pantone Blue Surf, and Pantone Country Air. All three feature "leather-inspired" textures. The microsite reveals...

Benfica’s Prestianni reportedly makes key decision ahead of Real Madrid Champions League clash after suspension confirmed

23 February 2026 at 21:19
After UEFA confirmed the suspension, Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni has reportedly taken a key decision ahead of the Champions League game against Real Madrid.

Gianluca Prestianni’s incident with Vinicius Junior, who accused him of racial abuse, has become one of the most talked-about stories in recent days. With the second leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff against Real Madrid approaching, the Benfica winger has reportedly made a key decision after his suspension was confirmed.

After several days of investigation, UEFA decided to provisionally suspend Prestianni for one match, ruling him out of the return leg in Spain against Real Madrid. Still, firm in his stance and eager to defend his reputation amid the allegations, the Argentine, along with Benfica, plans to respond forcefully.

As reported by A Bola, Prestianni will still travel with Benfica to Spain for the second leg against Real Madrid. The Eagles believe there remains a chance the Argentine winger could yet be available, as the decision is not considered final.

After being notified of Prestianni’s suspension, Benfica released a statement confirming plans to appeal UEFA’s ruling. “The Club regrets being deprived of the player while the process is still under investigation and will appeal this UEFA decision, even though the deadlines in question are unlikely to have any practical effect on the second leg of the Champions League play-off,” part of the statement read.

vinicius prestianni
Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica speaks towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid

Benfica backing Prestianni

Despite the seriousness of the accusations, Benfica has taken a firm stance in support of Prestianni, actively defending the player while challenging the process. The Argentine was unavailable for Saturday’s league match against AVS Futebol SAD due to yellow-card accumulation, but he has not been excluded from the squad led by head coach Jose Mourinho.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Prestianni gathered his teammates at midfield to tell them he felt “very offended” by the racism accusations. He also apologized to the squad for the attention the incident has brought upon the team.

Prestianni fires back to Vinicius and Mbappe

Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe were among the Real Madrid players who spoke out strongly about the situation — the Brazilian after allegedly being racially abused, and the French forward confronting the Argentine both on and off the pitch, saying he should not be playing in the Champions League.

Rather than backing down, according to El Chiringuito journalist Marcos Benito, Prestianni is seriously considering filing a complaint against Mbappé and Vinicius. The matter could be brought before UEFA, FIFA, and even Portugal’s criminal justice system, since the match took place in Lisbon, on defamation grounds, in what would be another step in his effort to clear his name.

Gianluca Prestianni of SL Benfica.

Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen apologizes on Chinese social media after racist video repost backlash

23 February 2026 at 21:08
Amid UEFA’s investigation into Gianluca Prestianni over alleged racism toward Vinicius Jr., Real Madrid have found caught in a controversy after Dean Huijsen shared a controversial video. In response, he issued an apology on a Chinese social media platform, leaving many fans dissatisfied.

While Real Madrid are going through genuine uncertainty in terms of results, the club remains surrounded by controversy. Not only is UEFA investigating Gianluca Prestianni following racism allegations from Vinicius Jr., but Dean Huijsen also became embroiled in controversy after reposting a racist video targeting the Chinese community. In response, he issued a public apology on a Chinese social media platform, leaving many fans dissatisfied.

A few hours ago, Dean Huijsen reposted a video on his Instagram profile in which the Chinese community was mocked. In response, he has decided to apologize to his followers: “I sincerely apologize to my Chinese friends, I previously forwarded content that included offensive messages unintentionally. It was completely unintentional, and I regret the distress caused,” Huijsen posted, via Real Madrid’s Weibo account.

Despite having apologized to the Chinese community, fans are not entirely convinced by Huijsen words. Instead, they are calling for a worldwide apology rather than one issued solely on Weibo. Some are even demanding a video statement, as they do not consider his remarks fully genuine. In addition, critics accuse Real Madrid of issuing the apology merely to mitigate potential commercial damage that those comments could cause.

While Vinicius Jr.’s racial discrimination accusations against Gianluca Prestianni remain under scrutiny, Real Madrid may be seeking to distance themselves from the controversy, as it could be perceived as hypocritical due to their situation with the Argentine star. In doing so, Los Blancos risk weakening their position in the Chinese market. However, they could remain reluctant to issue another apology on Instagram or through their official website.

Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid
Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen.

Dean Huijsen keeps facing early struggles at Real Madrid

After arriving as a marquee €62.5 million signing, Dean Huijsen was expected to become the defensive leader of Real Madrid. Although he impressed in the Premier League with AFC Bournemouth, the Spaniard has struggled at Los Blancos. Not only did he become involved in a racial controversy, but he is also enduring an injury-plagued spell that has disrupted his development.

In his first season in LaLiga, the 20-year-old defender has suffered five muscle injuries, sidelining him for nine matches. Moreover, Huijsen has yet to fully convince supporters with his performances, as he has been repeatedly exposed by costly and inexplicable errors. Nevertheless, he has already shown flashes of elite potential; it is simply that his physical setbacks appear to have stalled his adaptation.

Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid looks on with the ball during the UEFA Champions League.

David Benavidez sums up Ryan Garcia’s performance against Mario Barrios

23 February 2026 at 21:12

has given his honest thoughts on ’s unanimous decision victory over , which saw him become the WBC world welterweight champion last Saturday. Entering their showdown as the defending champion, despite coming off back-to-back draws, some felt that Barrios’ engine would prove too relentless for Garcia. The 30-year-old had previously tied with a 46-year-old in […]

The post David Benavidez sums up Ryan Garcia’s performance against Mario Barrios appeared first on Boxing News.

Karadenizli inadı tutmadı! Fatih Tekke'nin hayat kurtaran hamlesi

Gaziantep deplasmanına üçlü savunma deneyiyle başlayan Trabzonspor, ilk 20 dakikada kalesinde gördüğü baskıyla sarsıldı. Ancak Fatih Tekke'nin erken teşhisi ve taktiksel hatasından hızlıca vazgeçmesi maçın kaderini değiştirdi. Onana'nın devleştiği, Savic'in savunmaya akıl kattığı gecede bordo-mavililer, zorlu virajı 3 puanla dönmeyi başardı.

Trabzonspor, Gaziantep deplasmanından kritik 3 puanla dönerken; maçın hikayesi taktiksel bir kumarla başlayıp, usta işi bir geri dönüşle noktalandı. Maça "üçlü savunma" ile başlayan bordo-mavililer, kâğıt üzerinde cesur görünen bu tercihin bedelini sahada az daha ağır şekilde ödeyecekti.

Karşılaşmanın ilk 20 dakikasında Gaziantep, savunma boşluklarını maden gibi işledi. Kenarlardan akın akın geldi. Golün "geliyorum" dediği anlarda ağlar havalandı. Fatih Tekke, hatasında inat etmeyerek maçın kaderini değiştirdi.

Üçlü savunmadan vazgeçip dörtlüye dönülmesi, maçın kırılma noktası oldu. Bu hamlenin hemen ardından gelen 2 gol, Trabzonspor’u oyuna ortak etmekle kalmadı, üstünlüğü de getirdi.

Maçın öne çıkan isimlerinde tezatlıklar hakimdi. Ernest Muçi, hücumun en diri ismi olarak top taşıdı, adam eksiltti ve tehlike yarattı. Ancak son bölümdeki %99’luk iki pozisyonu değerlendiremedi.

Kalede Onana, yaptığı 6 net kurtarışla galibiyetin mimarı oldu. İstikrarın taktikten değerli olduğu bir kez daha kanıtlanırken, kaledeki olası bir değişikliğin bugün puan kaybı olarak konuşulabileceği gerçeği vurgulandı.

Galibiyete rağmen kadro mühendisliğindeki eksikler göze çarpmaya devam ediyor. Bazı pozisyonların hâlâ boş kalması, oyuncuların efektif kullanılmasını engelliyor. Şampiyonluk yolunda her puan altın değerinde olsa da, bitiricilik ve kadro dengesi üzerindeki soru işaretleri varlığını koruyor.

Musaba 3 maç sonra ilk 11'de

Fenerbahçe'nin devre arasında Samsunspor'dan kadrosuna kattığı Anthony Musaba, 3 maç sonra ilk 11'de görev aldı.

Fenerbahçe'nin Samsunspor'dan transfer ettiği Anthony Musaba, 3 maç sonra ilk 11'de görev aldı.

Son olarak 5 Şubat'ta Ziraat Türkiye Kupası'nda Erzurumspor FK mücadelesine ilk 11'de başlayan Musaba, Gençlerbirliği ve Trabzonspor müsabakalarına yedek başlamıştı.

Musaba, UEFA listesinde olmaması sebebiyle Nottingham Forest maçında ise kadroda yer alamamıştı.

Trabzonspor ara vermedi

Trabzonspor, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasında 27 Şubat Cuma günü sahasında Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük ile yapacağı karşılaşmanın hazırlıklarına başladı.

Mehmet Ali Yılmaz Tesisleri'nde, teknik direktör Fatih Tekke yönetimindeki antrenmanda, Gaziantep FK maçında forma giyen oyuncular yenilenme çalışması yaptı. Diğer oyuncular, pas, rondo ve dar alanda oyun çalışmasıyla idmanı tamamladı.

Bordo-mavili takım, hazırlıklarına yarın devam edecek.

Galatasaray'da Osimhen müjdesi

Galatasaray, UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 play-off turu rövanşında 25 Şubat Çarşamba günü deplasmanda İtalya'nın Juventus ekibiyle oynayacağı maçın hazırlıklarına devam etti.

Sarı-kırmızılı kulübün açıklamasına göre Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Tesisleri'nde, teknik direktör Okan Buruk yönetimindeki idman, topla ısınmayla başladı. Dört grup halinde 5'e 1 pas çalışmasıyla devam eden antrenman, çift kale maçla sona erdi.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasındaki TÜMOSAN Konyaspor maçının kadrosuna dahil edilmeyen Nijeryalı golcü Victor Osimhen, takımla çalıştı.

Galatasaray, Juventus maçının hazırlıklarını yarınki idmanla tamamlayacak.

Kerem Aktürkoğlu neden ilk 11'de değil? Tedesco açıkladı

Fenerbahçe, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasında sahasında Kasımpaşa'yı konuk ediyor. Karşılaşma öncesi sarı-lacivertlilerde Teknik Direktör Domenico Tedesco dikkat çeken açıklamalarda bulundu.

Fenerbahçe, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasında sahasında Kasımpaşa'yı konuk ediyor. Kritik karşılaşma öncesi sarı-lacivertlilerde Teknik Direktör Domenico Tedesco açıklamalarda bulundu.

İŞTE TEDESCO'NUN SÖZLERİ:

Her şeyden önce bugünkü maçı kazanmak istiyoruz. Kazanmak için en iyi 11'leri çıkartıyoruz. Nottingham Forest maçlarını düşünmüyoruz, bu maçı düşünüyoruz. Süper Lig'de oynanan her maç zor.

Sakatları ve eksikleri göz önünde bulundurmamız gerekiyor. Mert Müldür ve Kerem gibi oyuncular maç içerisinde çok fazla sprint atan oyuncular. Bu yüzden onları korumamız ve dikkat etmemiz gerekiyor.

Bugün 4'lü oynayacağız ama bir sonraki maçı bilmiyorum. Skriniar, bu takımın kalbi ve kaptanı. Bizi dışarıdan destekleyecek ve her zaman takımla birlikte. Birkaç hafta bizimle olmayacak ve bizim de çözüm bulmamız gerekiyor. Çağlar da çözümlerinden birisi. Kaptanlarımızdan birisi ve hiç şüphe yok ki iyi bir iş çıkaracak.

“Neftçi” Banişevskinin 9 nömrəli formasını əbədiləşdirdi

23 February 2026 at 21:00

Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında çıxış edən “Neftçi” əfsanəvi futbolçusu Anatoli Banişevskinin 9 nömrəli formasını əbədiləşdirib.

Arena.az bu barədə paytaxt klubunun rəsmi saytına istinadən xəbər verir.

Bildirilir ki, 2026/2027-ci illər mövsümündən etibarən komandanın 9 nömrəli forması Banişevskinin xatirəsinə rəsmən istifadədən götürüləcək və heç bir futbolçuya verilməyəcək. Qərar fevralın 23-də anadan olmasının 80 illiyi tamam olan unudulmaz hücumçunun xatirəsinə ehtiram əlaməti olaraq qəbul edilib.

Bildirilib ki, Anatoli Banişevski 16 il ərzində “Neftçi”nin 9 nömrəli formasını şərəf və sədaqətlə geyinib. O, bu nömrə altında çoxsaylı qələbə qolları vuraraq klubun adını yüksəklərə daşıyıb.

Bu addım 89 illik tarixi ərzində Azərbaycan futboluna mühüm töhfələr vermiş paytaxt təmsilçisinin şanlı keçmişinə və klubun formasını daşımış bütün futbolçulara hörmətin ifadəsidir.

Pictures: Loftus-Cheek shows off missing teeth after nasty Corvi clash

23 February 2026 at 21:32

Ruben Loftus-Cheek has shared pictures of the aftermath of his horror clash with Edorardo Corvi during Milan’s 1-0 loss against Parma on Sunday evening, and has given somewhat of a crooked smile after undergoing emergency surgery on his jaw on Monday. 

Loftus-Cheek was left with several missing teeth and a fracture of the alveolar bone in his jaw after a nasty coming together with goalkeeper Corvi 11 minutes into Sunday’s match in San Sirio. 

The former Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Fulham midfielder was stretchered off in a neck brace and was taken to a nearby medical facility for tests. He was taken to the specialist maxillofacial department at the San Paolo hospital in Milan on Monday, where he has since had surgery to repair the damage to his jaw. 

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Milan have confirmed that they expect Loftus-Cheek to return to action in around eight weeks’ time. 

Pictures: Loftus-Cheek missing teeth after horror clash 

At the same time as Milan’s official statement on Monday afternoon, Loftus-Cheek also updated his followers on Instagram with a message that read: “It was a tough blow, but the worst is behind me. 

“A heartfelt thanks to all the medical staff who supported me over these past hours with professionalism and care. A special thanks to all the fans for your countless messages of love and support. I’ve read them, felt them, and they’ve given me incredible strength. 

“Thanks to my teammates: We are a team. We are a family. Now, forward towards our goals, strong and united. Together.” 

Loftus-Cheek has also shared a pair of ‘before and after’ photos of his face on Monday.

Serie A: Fiorentina vs. Pisa – Confirmed line-ups and updates

23 February 2026 at 21:00

Paolo Vanoli has made wholesale changes to his Fiorentina side and has reintroduced Moise Kean in attack for the visit of Pisa in Serie A on Monday evening. 

The Viola return to league action following Thursday’s 3-0 Conference League victory over Jagiellonia in Poland. Vanoli’s side (18th) require three points this evening if they are to lift themselves above Pisa, who sit one position, but six points below them in the table (19th). 

Fiorentina are unbeaten in the month of February after a 2-2 draw against Torino and a 2-1 win over Como in recent weeks, while Pisa have only won one league match at all in 2025-26: A 1-0 win over Cremonese at the beginning of November. 

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Kean was among the Fiorentina players to be rested on Thursday night, but returns to the attack on Monday along with Manor Solomon. Jack Harrison keeps his place in the front three. 

Cher Ndour is the only midfielder to keep his place in the starting XI, joined by Nicolo Fagioli and Marco Brescianini against Pisa. 

Pisa have made just two changes following their 2-1 defeat against Milan last weekend, with Samuel Iling-Junior and Marius Marin coming into the XI in place of Matteo Tramoni and Michel Aebischer. 

Kick-off is due at 17.30 GMT. 

Fiorentina vs. Pisa: Confirmed line-ups

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Fiorentina (4-3-3): De Gea; Dodo; Pongracic, Ranieri, Parisi; Ndour, Fagioli, Brescianini; Harrison, Kean, Solomon. 

Subs: Lezzerini; Rugani, Gudmundsson, Comuzzo, Gosenz, Fazzini, Fortini, Balbo, Bonanno, Fabbian, Piccoli. 

Pisa (3-5-2): Nicolas; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bozhinov; Toure, Marin, Loyola, Angori; Moreo, Iling-Junior; Stojilkovic. 

Subs: Semper, Leris, Hojholt, Meister, Tramoni, Cuadrado, Akinsanmiro, Durosinmi, Aebischer, Coppola, Calabresi, Guizzo, Albiol, Lorran.

23-02-2026 17:30
MatchDay 26

Player statistic

1st half
Moise Kean Goal 13'    
    37' Antonio Caracciolo
2nd half
Dodô 47'    
    62' Marius Marin
    79' Juan Cuadrado
Giovanni Fabbian 90+2'    
Jacopo Fazzini Yellow card 90+2'    

Match statistic

56
Possession %
44
15
Total shots
7
5
Shots on target
1
6
Shots off target
5
4
Blocked shots
1
4
Corners
3
0
Offsides
2
8
Fouls
19
Fiorentina
Pisa

Starting lineups

43
Goalkeeper
2
Defender
78'
65
Defender
6
Defender
5
Defender
27
Midfielder
4
Midfielder
44
Midfielder
88'
17
Attacker
19
Attacker
78'
20
Attacker
86'
12
Goalkeeper
4
35
Defender
46'
2
Defender
3
Defender
5
15
Midfielder
68'
6
Midfielder
81
46'
19
46'
32
Attacker
76'

Substitutes

10
3
Defender
21
Midfielder
1
Goalkeeper
53
Goalkeeper
29
Midfielder
60
Defender
62
Defender
63
Midfielder
22
Midfielder
78'
15
Defender
78'
91
Attacker
86'
80
Midfielder
88'
1
Goalkeeper
7
Attacker
33
Defender
10
Midfielder
39
Defender
14
26
8
Midfielder
99
Midfielder
34
Goalkeeper
20
Midfielder
46'
17
Attacker
46'
9
Attacker
46'
11
Midfielder
68'
36
76'

Official: Milan confirm Loftus-Cheek recovery time after horror facial injury

23 February 2026 at 20:41

Milan have confirmed that midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek has undergone surgery, that he has been discharged and that he is expected to return to action in around eight weeks time after suffering a horror facial injury during Milan’s 1-0 loss against Parma in Serie A on Sunday evening. 

Milan give official Loftus-Cheek update

The former Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Fulham midfielder was stretchered off in a neck brace after a horror clash with Parma goalkeeper Edoardo Corvi just 11 minutes into Sunday’s loss in San Siro. 

Loftus-Cheek was immediately taken to the nearby San Carlo hospital for emergency tests, which confirmed that he has suffered a fracture to the alveolar bone in his jaw. The Englishman also lost several teeth during the incident according to reports in Italy

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Edoardo Corvi of Parma Calcio clashes with Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

According to Sky Sport Italia, the initial plan was for Loftus-Cheek to have immediate surgery on Sunday evening, but this was eventually held off until Monday morning in order to arrange a surgical team at the San Paolo hospital in Milan, which houses a specialist maxillofacial department. 

Milan have since released a statement confirming that Loftus-Cheek underwent surgery on his jaw, that he has been discharged and that he is expected to return to action in around eight weeks. 

“AC Milan announce that Ruben Loftus-Cheek suffered a significant facial trauma yesterday, which resulted in a fracture of the alveolar process of the jaw,” read a statement on the club website. 

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 22: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan leaves the pitch on a stretcher during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan leaves the pitch on a stretcher during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“The player was admitted to the Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Clinic department of ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, where today he underwent surgery performed by Dr. Luca Autelitano. The operation to reduce and stabilise the fracture was completely successful. Ruben is doing well and has already been discharged.

“The estimated recovery time is around eight weeks.”

February 24th: Tuesday’s Champions League Double – 5/1 Special, Betting Tips & Predictions

With the Champions League once again stealing centre stage in midweek, we have four heavyweight European showdowns pencilled in. As reigning European champions Monaco welcome domestic foes Monaco to the French capital, Bodo/Glimt will be looking to spring an iconic upset when they travel to the San Siro. Ahead of what should be another frantic […]

The post February 24th: Tuesday’s Champions League Double – 5/1 Special, Betting Tips & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

The post February 24th: Tuesday’s Champions League Double – 5/1 Special, Betting Tips & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

Tencent has Reportedly Shut Down Open-World Developer TiMi Montreal Studio Five Years After it was Founded, Without Releasing a Game

23 February 2026 at 21:10

The TiMi Studio Group logo, featuring a blue cloud-shaped icon and the text 'TiMi' on a dark background.

A new report from Game File points to the latest source of video game industry layoffs, this time coming from Tencent and its TiMi Montreal studio. In this case, the whole studio is getting shut down, leading to everyone on the team seemingly losing their roles nearly five years after the studio was founded with the intention of creating "AAA open-world multi-platform games." Game File's report comes after a now-deleted LinkedIn post from one of the studio's programmers shared that the studio had been shuttered, with employees having been aware of the situation "for some time." They also added that […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/tencent-reportedly-shut-down-open-world-developer-timi-montreal-studio/

“In Many Respects, Fallout 76 Is the Game I’m Most Proud Of”, Says Todd Howard

23 February 2026 at 21:00

Fallout 76 Todd Howard

In his latest hour-long conversation with Greg Miller from Kinda Funny, Bethesda's Todd Howard touched on various subjects, including The Elder Scrolls VI and Starfield, the usage of AI in game development, and even his feelings toward Fallout 76. When it launched in late 2018, Fallout 76 quickly became a sort of punching bag for critics (including Wccftech's Chris Wray) and gamers alike. The game had several issues at release, including optimization, a lack of human NPCs (by design, as the game is set before any other in the series and was conceived with players as the first Vault dwellers getting out […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/in-many-respects-fallout-76-game-im-most-proud-of-says-todd-howard/

New Report Claims No One, Not Even Those Internally at Xbox, Liked the “Everything is an Xbox” Strategy

23 February 2026 at 20:47

Sarah Bond stands on stage above an image featuring Samsung displays, an Xbox console, and the text 'THIS IS AN XBOX.'

This past Friday, the video games industry, and more specifically, Xbox and Microsoft, entered a new era. A post-Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond era, with the announcement of Spencer's retirement and Bond's resignation. Former Microsoft CoreAI chief executive officer, Asha Sharma, took Spencer's place, while Matt Booty stepped into a new role as Xbox's chief content officer. As the industry and consumers wrap their heads around the sudden shake-up, a new report from The Verge looks to provide some insight into why it happened the way it did. Why is Sarah Bond leaving Microsoft instead of being the one to […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/sarah-bond-phil-spencer-no-one-liked-everything-is-an-xbox-strategy/

‘Every Time They Buy a Game From Us, They’re Getting a Great Deal’: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Publisher Pushes Back Against Regular Price Hikes

23 February 2026 at 20:30

Two characters in detailed armor in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 explore a war-torn landscape in the game 'Immortals of Aveum,' with ruins and vivid orange

Over the past few months, video gaming has become a rather expensive hobby, with hardware and game prices rising consistently, risking pricing out more and more gamers as the worldwide economic situation remains challenging. However, not every publisher is set to increase prices, and some, like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 publisher Kepler Interactive, are set to continue employing a pricing strategy that is respectful of gamers' money and time. Speaking with the BBC, Kepler Interactive's CEO Alexis Garavaryan commented on the company's pricing strategy, which has "kind of taken the opposite action" to what most major publishers have done in […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/clair-obscur-expedition-33-publisher-pushes-back-price-hikes/

WWE 2K26 Devs on Core Changes, Cutting Last-Gen, Knowing The Island Wouldn’t “Wow” Year 1, and More

23 February 2026 at 20:05

WWE 2K26

A new year means a new WWE 2K game, and I recently made the trip to WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, to go hands-on with WWE 2K26 (read more about that here). As has become tradition, I also sat down with longtime WWE 2K series creative director Lynell Jinks and gameplay producer Bryan Williams to take the current temperature of the series. We delved into a lot of topics, including WWE 2K26’s changes to the series’ core stamina and reversal mechanics, the game’s massive 400 slot roster, added match types, new “Ringside Pass” approach to DLC, why Visual Concepts knew The Island wouldn’t wow everyone […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/wwe-2k26-interview-gamelay-changes-cutting-last-gen-the-island/

WWE 2K26 Hands-On Impressions – Making Moves Across Modes

23 February 2026 at 20:00

WWE 2K26

Last year’s entry in the WWE 2K series left some, including me, wanting. After several years of steady piecemeal improvement, WWE 2K25 went all-in on The Island, a new cosmetic-festooned online hub similar to NBA 2K's The City, with most other aspects of the game falling by the wayside. Was this just a one-year misstep, or the beginning of a new direction? Last week, I traveled to WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, to go hands-on with WWE 2K26 and was surprised to find I could test pretty much the entire game (in years past, journalists were typically given a curated list of […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/wwe-2k26-hands-on-impressions/

Grandiose narcissists tend to show reduced neural sensitivity to errors

23 February 2026 at 21:00

Two studies of students in the U.K. revealed that individuals with pronounced grandiose narcissism traits tended to show blunted neural activity in response to errors. It is possible that this is the mechanism through which narcissists resist correcting themselves, bolstering their positive self-views. The paper was published in the Journal of Personality.

Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by grandiosity, a strong need for admiration, and a tendency toward self-centeredness. Two major forms of narcissism are grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Grandiose narcissism is marked by confidence, extraversion, and exhibitionism, whereas vulnerable narcissism involves defensiveness, insecurity, and hypersensitivity to criticism.

Individuals high in narcissism tend to be very interested in seeking status and recognition. They often appear charismatic and competent to others. However, they tend to struggle with empathy and prioritize personal gain over collective welfare. Because of this internal contrast, narcissism is linked to both short-term social success and long-term relational instability.

In leadership contexts, narcissistic individuals may make bold, visionary decisions but also take excessive risks. Theoretical models suggest that narcissists either mask underlying insecurity or maintain a robust self-view through cognitive distortions and avoidance of negative feedback.

Lead author Esther M. Robins and her colleagues wanted to examine the association between narcissism—particularly grandiose agentic narcissism—and error-related negativity (ERN). ERN is a neural marker of error-processing detectable using electroencephalography (EEG). It is a rapid negative deflection in the EEG signal that occurs approximately 50 milliseconds after an individual makes an error. It reflects early neuronal processes of error detection generated in the anterior cingulate cortex region of the brain. To investigate this, the researchers conducted two studies.

The first study included a final analyzed sample of 144 undergraduate students from the University of Southampton (approximately 81% of whom were women). The students completed the Eriksen Flanker Task while an EEG device recorded their brain activity. Afterward, they completed an assessment of narcissism (the Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Questionnaire). The Eriksen Flanker Task is a cognitive task in which participants respond to a target stimulus while ignoring surrounding distractor stimuli (flankers). It is commonly used to measure selective attention, response conflict, and cognitive control.

The second study replicated the procedure of the first, with the addition that students received feedback after each trial telling them whether their response was correct or incorrect. This allowed the study authors to test whether the blunted neural response to errors found in the previous study extends to situations in which performance failures are clearly signaled by external sources.

In this setup, there were two conditions: students were told that their feedback was either being signaled by two researchers in another room or that it was computer-generated. While 120 undergraduate students from the University of Southampton were initially recruited, the final analyzed sample consisted of 50 participants (80% female), as a number of participants had to be excluded for not making enough errors to record a reliable EEG signal.

Results of the first study showed that error-related negativity responses were clearly detectable and markedly stronger when participants were incorrect than when their answer was correct. They were strongest over the Fz electrode location (i.e., over the frontal midline of the scalp). Individuals with more pronounced grandiose narcissism tended to show a weaker (less negative) error-related negativity response. This indicated that these individuals’ early neural response to errors was blunted.

Results of the second study conceptually replicated the findings of the first. Even with explicit external feedback, individuals with more pronounced narcissism tended to show less negative (weaker) error-related negativity responses. This association was evident for both the admiration and rivalry facets of grandiose narcissism, though the effect was stronger for the admiration facet.

“Higher admiration and rivalry narcissism were associated with a blunted (less negative) error-related negativity. The results are consistent with the metacognitive model of narcissism, showing that grandiose narcissists exhibit reduced neural sensitivity to errors. These findings highlight a potential mechanism through which narcissists resist self-corrective learning, bolstering their positive self-views. Blunted error processing may influence decision-making and behavior across contexts,” the study authors concluded.

The study contributes to the scientific understanding of the neural underpinnings of narcissism. However, it should be noted that the study was conducted solely on predominantly white, British university students. Results in other demographic, cultural, and age groups may differ.

The paper, “Narcissism Is Associated With Blunted Error-Related Brain Activity,” was authored by Esther M. Robins, Zhiwei Zhou, Chengli Huang, Douglas J. Angus, Constantine Sedikides, and Nicholas J. Kelley.

What it takes to make demand gen work for B2B and ecommerce

23 February 2026 at 21:00

Demand Gen marks a shift in Google Ads toward visual advertising beyond keywords and text. Relying on traditional strategies when testing it wastes budget, hurts performance, and limits opportunity. To succeed, you have to think more like a social advertiser than a search advertiser.

At SMX Next, Industrious Marketing owner Jack Hepp explained why many businesses struggle with demand gen campaigns — especially in B2B and lead generation — while also sharing insights relevant to ecommerce.

Understanding the Shift: From Intent to Interruption

Demand Gen reflects Google’s shift from intent-first search advertising to visual, discovery-based campaigns.

Instead of targeting users actively searching for your service, you reach them as they scroll through YouTube, Gmail, or Discovery feeds.

This changes your approach: visual creative becomes the new keyword, replacing traditional targeting.

Common misalignments in Demand Gen strategy

Applying outdated search strategies can lead to failure with Demand Gen. The four main mistakes:

  • Expecting bottom-of-funnel CPAs from mid-funnel traffic.
  • Using overly broad, “spray and pray” targeting.
  • Running bland, generic creative.
  • Not knowing how to optimize without negative keywords.

Success requires a social advertising mindset.

Campaign structure: Understanding the hierarchy

Demand Gen uses a two-level structure.

  • Campaign-level settings control broad parameters like bidding strategy, conversion goals, and device targeting.
  • Ad group–level settings control audiences, locations, and channels.

Each ad group learns independently—insights don’t transfer—allowing precise audience segmentation with tailored creative.

Creating interruption-based creative

You must stop their scroll within 3-4 seconds. Your creative must capture attention immediately, speak to a specific pain point, and present your solution.

Unlike search ads — where users are actively looking for you — Demand Gen interrupts browsing, so your message must be instantly compelling and problem-focused.

Aligning visuals to the customer journey

Match your offer to audience readiness.

  • Cold audiences need educational content like free guides or diagnostic tools.
  • Warm audiences respond to case studies, webinars, and comparison tools.
  • Hot audiences are ready for demos and direct purchase offers.

Misaligning them — like pushing demos to cold audiences — guarantees failure from the start.

The power of problem-focused creative

Generic ads with stock photos and basic headlines get scrolled past. Winning creative uses bold headlines, striking visuals, and problem-focused messaging.

  • For example, “43% of cyberattacks target small businesses” speaks to a specific pain point, making the ad stand out and prompting engagement instead of a scroll.

Bidding and budget strategies

Demand Gen uses campaign goals rather than traditional bidding strategies: conversion-focused, click-focused, or conversion–value–focused.

  • Aim for 50+ conversions per month and budget 10–15x your target CPA to build enough data.
  • For click-based bidding, set budget based on desired traffic volume and target CPC.

Demand Gen is highly data-reliant, so hitting these thresholds is critical to performance.

Can Demand Gen work with small budgets?

Yes, with strategic planning.

Focus on mid- or upper-funnel audiences and optimize for MQLs instead of bottom-funnel conversions. This helps you reach 50+ monthly conversions for data density, even with smaller budgets.

Align your goals, targeting, and budget to generate enough conversion data.

Building the right audience

Avoid two extremes:

  • Audiences that are too broad (billions of impressions) where Google can’t identify your target.
  • Audiences too narrow (a few thousand impressions) where you can’t build data density.

The sweet spot: start with custom segments based on search terms or competitor websites, then layer in lookalike segments and strategic first-party data. Avoid optimized targeting at first — it works best to expand already successful campaigns.

The role of creative in targeting

Your creative shapes who Google targets. The people who engage with your ads teach Google who to show them to next.

Performance peaks when your creative speaks to your ideal customer profile. Align messaging to the buyer’s stage — cold audiences need different messaging than hot prospects.

Strategic exclusions

Use exclusions surgically, not broadly. It’s tempting to exclude like negative keywords, but over-excluding shrinks your audience too much.

Focus only on clear non-converters (e.g., specific age groups, locations, or audiences you know won’t respond). Give Google room to find engaged users within your parameters, rather than narrowing to the point of ineffectiveness.

Optimization: Where to focus

Without negative keywords, optimize through three levers: creative, audience, and offer. Test multiple formats (video, image, carousel) and styles (UGC, testimonials, problem-focused messaging). Continuously refine what works with new hooks and data points.

Test offers to match audience readiness — cold audiences need educational content, while hot audiences need direct CTAs.

Prioritize post-click optimization: improve landing pages, strengthen tracking with CRM integration, and ensure clean data feeds Google’s learning.

Real-world case study

A telecommunications company targeting B2B managed IT services drove strong results by aligning all three elements.

  • Offer: An interactive quiz showing businesses how managed IT could reduce costs.
  • Targeting: Custom segments based on proven search terms and competitor website visitors.
  • Creative: Problem-focused messaging about cybersecurity threats to small businesses.

Results:

  • $10 cost per MQL.
  • 3.8% conversion rate.
  • 40% of quiz takers became SQLs.
  • 20% increase in total SQLs.

Key takeaways

As you plan your next campaign:

  • Match your creative to your customer and their stage in the journey.
  • Target the right audience at the right point in that journey.
  • Test and optimize creative and offers to find what resonates and drives action.

💾

From scroll-stopping creative to smarter budgets, learn why search tactics fail and what actually drives MQLs, SQLs and sales.

Mastering generative engine optimization in 2026: Full guide by Tor.app

23 February 2026 at 16:00
Traditional search results vs AI-generated answer with brand citations

Gartner predicted traditional search volume will drop 25% this year as users shift to AI-powered answer engines. Google’s AI Overviews now reach more than 2 billion monthly users, ChatGPT serves 800 million users each week, and Perplexity processes hundreds of millions of queries every month.

Getting found online is no longer just about ranking on Page 1. It’s about being the source AI engines cite when they generate an answer.

That’s the job of generative engine optimization (GEO) — and in 2026, it’s no longer optional. This guide shows you how to build, execute, and measure a GEO strategy that actually works.

What is GEO — and why 2026 is the tipping point

GEO is the practice of structuring your content and digital presence so that AI-powered search platforms — including ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, Perplexity, Claude, and Copilot — can retrieve, cite, and recommend your brand when answering user questions.

If traditional SEO was about earning a spot among 10 blue links, GEO is about earning a place among the two to seven domains large language models typically cite in a single response. The competition is tougher, but the payoff is big: when an AI engine names your brand in its answer, it delivers an implicit endorsement no organic listing ever could.

SEO vs generative engine optimization key differences comparison chart

Several forces make 2026 the tipping point. AI search adoption is moving beyond experimentation as users form platform loyalty, choosing their preferred AI engine the way they once chose between Google and Bing.

At the same time, GEO has gone mainstream at the enterprise level, with dedicated conferences, agency specializations, and a growing ecosystem of purpose-built tools. Academic research reinforces this shift. A Princeton study that coined the term, along with a 2025 paper on citation bias in AI search, shows that AI engines strongly favor earned media—authoritative third-party sources—over brand-owned content.

Understanding this dynamic isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of any effective GEO strategy.

A practical GEO framework: assess, optimize, measure, iterate

Treating GEO as a one-time content tweak is the biggest mistake you make. In reality, GEO demands the same ongoing discipline as SEO. The framework below lays out a repeatable structure to get it right.

Four-phase GEO framework: assess, optimize, measure, iterate cycle”

Phase 1: Assess your AI search readiness

Before you optimize anything, you need a baseline. Most brands obsess over Google rankings yet have no visibility into how AI engines perceive and present their brand. That’s like running a business without ever checking your bank balance.

An effective GEO audit should answer a few core questions:

  • Are major AI engines citing your content at all? 
  • Can AI crawlers read and understand your structured data? 
  • How does your brand show up in AI-generated answers — accurate, positive, neutral, or wrong? 
  • Where are competitors earning AI citations that you’re missing?

The audit doesn’t need to take months. Tools like Geoptie’s free GEO Audit can assess your site’s AI search readiness and surface actionable insights in minutes—giving you a clear starting point before you invest in optimization.

Phase 2: Optimize your content for AI engines

This is the tactical core of any GEO strategy. Focus your optimization on four areas: content structure, entity authority, technical foundations, and content freshness.

Structure content for AI retrieval

AI engines don’t read content the way people do. They break pages into individual passages and evaluate each one for relevance, clarity, and factual density. Every section needs to stand on its own.

Start each section with a clear, direct answer. Then expand with context.

  • Use a clean heading hierarchy (H2 and H3) to signal the topic of each passage.
  • Add brief TL;DR statements under key headings so they can stand alone as answers.
  • Include FAQ sections. AI engines rely heavily on clear question-and-answer pairs when building responses.

Build entity authority

GEO focuses on entities — your brand, your people, your products — not just individual pages. Strengthen those entity signals to increase the odds that AI engines recognize your brand and cite it with confidence.

  • Keep your brand mentions consistent across the web. 
  • Publish clear, detailed About and author bio pages. 
  • Pursue a Wikipedia presence when it makes sense. 
  • Actively build and manage your knowledge panel.

Research shows AI engines favor earned media — third-party coverage, reviews, and industry mentions — over content on your own site.

Digital PR and thought leadership aren’t just brand plays anymore. They’re direct GEO levers.

Nail the technical foundations

Technical GEO optimization overlaps with traditional SEO, but it adds AI-specific layers.

  • Implement schema markup — especially Article, Organization, FAQ, HowTo, and Breadcrumb — to help AI engines parse your content.
  • Review your robots.txt file to ensure AI crawlers like GPTBot, ClaudeBot, and PerplexityBot aren’t blocked.
  • Consider adding an llms.txt file to guide AI systems on how to interpret your site.

And don’t ignore the fundamentals. Fast load times, clean site architecture, and mobile optimization still drive discoverability and crawlability.

Prioritize freshness and depth

AI engines weigh recency when selecting sources. A guide published in 2024 with no updates will lose ground to a 2026 article on the same topic.

Refresh your cornerstone content regularly. Add updated data, new insights, and a clear “Last updated” timestamp.

Original research, proprietary data, and expert commentary attract citations. If you publish something no one else has — a benchmark study, a unique dataset, or a framework built from your experience — AI engines have a reason to cite you over a dozen lookalike alternatives.

GEO content optimization checklist with nine actionable items

Phase 3: Measure your AI search performance

Measurement is the biggest gap in most GEO strategies today. Marketers who’ve spent years refining Google Analytics dashboards often have no comparable visibility into AI search performance.

Track the metrics that matter:

  • Measure AI citation frequency — how often your brand appears in AI-generated answers.
  • Track share of voice — your mentions versus competitors across AI platforms.
  • Monitor citation sentiment — whether AI accurately and positively presents your brand.
  • And measure AI-referred traffic — visits and conversions from AI search, tracked through GA4 attribution.

The challenge is that traditional SEO tools don’t track these metrics. You need purpose-built GEO platforms that query AI engines directly and monitor brand performance over time.

If you want a quick snapshot, Geoptie’s free Rank Tracker shows your position across multiple AI engines instantly. It’s a practical starting point before you commit to a full monitoring setup.

Phase 4: Iterate and scale

GEO isn’t a launch-and-forget initiative. The AI search landscape shifts fast — models update, citation patterns change, and competitors adapt. Your strategy needs to evolve just as quickly.

Use your performance data to see what’s earning citations — and why. Identify which AI platforms drive the most value in your vertical. Track where competitors are gaining or losing ground.

Then scale what works. Repurpose high-performing content across formats. Turn a well-cited guide into a data page, a video script, and a set of targeted FAQ entries.

Build a cross-functional GEO workflow. Generative engine optimization isn’t just the content team’s job. It lives at the intersection of content marketing, SEO, digital PR, and product marketing.

Platforms like Geoptie bring audit reports, competitor intelligence, citation analytics, and content optimization into one dashboard. That makes it practical to manage the entire cycle in one place instead of stitching together multiple tools.

Geoptie dashboard tracking AI search visibility across multiple engines

Now is the time to build GEO capability

GEO isn’t a passing trend. It’s the new foundation of digital discovery. 

As AI search adoption accelerates through 2026 and beyond, the gap between brands that invest now and those that wait will only widen.

The playbook is straightforward:

  • Assess where you stand today. 
  • Optimize your content and technical foundation for AI retrieval. 
  • Measure performance across the platforms that matter. 
  • Then iterate relentlessly.

Brands that build this discipline into their marketing stack now will earn compounding advantages as AI becomes the primary way customers discover, evaluate, and decide who to trust.

The question isn’t whether GEO matters. It’s whether you’ll lead or follow.

Ready to take control of your AI visibility?

Geoptie gives you everything you need to master GEO from one platform. Run comprehensive GEO audits, track AI rankings across ChatGPT, Google AI, Perplexity, Claude, and more, analyze competitors, monitor citations, and build AI-first content—all in one place.

Whether you’re new to GEO or scaling an established strategy, Geoptie turns insight into action from day one. Start your free 14-day trial and see exactly where your brand stands in AI search.

This $0.04 New Crypto Just Hit 3x: Why Investors See Another 500% Move

23 February 2026 at 20:45
cryptos (1)

The post This $0.04 New Crypto Just Hit 3x: Why Investors See Another 500% Move appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

While many people are still looking at older projects, a new wave of smart capital is flowing into a specific protocol built for the next generation of finance. Success in this space often comes down to finding a project while it is still in its quiet building phase. 

Experts are now watching a protocol that has spent the last year creating a high-speed engine to change how the world handles lending. As we approach the final stages of its early rollout, the pieces are falling into place for a move that could redefine what a successful breakout looks like in 2026.

The Mutuum Finance (MUTM) Presale and Vision

Mutuum Finance (MUTM) is building a decentralized hub that changes how users interact with their digital wealth. The project is creating a non-custodial lending system that removes the need for banks. 

This would allow users to lend their assets to earn interest or borrow funds using their crypto as security. The main goal is to solve the problem of idle capital by making it easy for anyone to put their tokens to work in a safe environment.

The project is currently in Phase 7 of its presale. The price of a single MUTM token is $0.04, which is a 300% increase from the initial starting price of $0.01. This steady growth shows strong confidence from the community. 

So far, the project has raised more than $20.6 million and has attracted over 19,000 individual holders. The total supply is fixed at 4 billion tokens, with 45.5% set aside for this early distribution phase. With a confirmed launch price of $0.06, the current phase is the last chance for participants to enter at a significant discount before the project hits major exchanges.

Protocol Launch and the Value Loop

A major milestone for Mutuum Finance was the launch of the V1 protocol on the Sepolia testnet. This is a working version of the app where users can test the core lending engine. It features the mtToken system, which is a central part of the platform’s yield mechanics. 

When you provide liquidity to a pool, you receive mtTokens as a digital receipt. These tokens are interest-bearing assets. They automatically grow in value as borrowers pay back their loans with interest. This creates a simple way to earn passive income without having to manually claim rewards every day.

To support the value of the native token, the project uses a buy-and-distribute model. A portion of the fees collected from every loan on the platform is used to buy MUTM tokens from the open market. These tokens are then given back to the community members who stake their mtTokens. 

Many analysts believe this model creates a sustainable loop of demand. Because of these technical deliveries, many experts have issued a price prediction of a potential $0.20 shortly after the mainnet launch. 

BUY-MUTM

Stablecoins, Layer-2 and Oracles

The future of Mutuum Finance’s roadmap includes expanding into a full financial ecosystem. One of the most anticipated features is the launch of a native, over-collateralized stablecoin. Users will be able to mint this stablecoin by locking their assets as collateral, providing them with liquidity without needing to sell their original holdings. 

This feature is expected to drive massive volume to the protocol. To ensure that all price data is accurate, the platform integrates with decentralized oracles like Chainlink. These oracles provide real-time price feeds that prevent errors in loan calculations and protect users from unfair liquidations.

To make these tools accessible to everyone, Mutuum Finance plans to integrate with Ethereum Layer-2 scaling solutions. This would reduce transaction fees to near-zero and make every interaction instant. 

Security Standards and Community Incentives

Security is the foundation of everything Mutuum Finance is building. The project has completed a full manual security audit of its smart contracts with Halborn Security. This firm is a global leader in finding and fixing vulnerabilities in blockchain code. 

The project also holds a high trust score from CertiK, which monitors the platform for any risks. To add an extra layer of safety, the team has launched a $50,000 bug bounty program. This program pays independent researchers to find and report any bugs before they can cause a problem on the main network.

In addition to technical safety, the project keeps the community active through a daily 24-hour leaderboard. This board tracks participation in real time. The top contributor each day receives a $500 reward in MUTM tokens. This creates a fun and competitive environment for the 19,000+ holders. 

Currently, the $0.04 price represents a 50% discount compared to the confirmed $0.06 launch price. As Phase 7 nears its end, analysts say Mutuum Finance is following the same steps as early market leaders by building a secure, utility-focused hub before the rest of the market catches on.

For more information about Mutuum Finance (MUTM) visit the links below:

Website: https://www.mutuum.com

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mutuumfinance

Ripple’s Hidden Power Play: Could XRP Be the Backbone of Instant Global Payments?

23 February 2026 at 20:25
Ripple News Today

The post Ripple’s Hidden Power Play: Could XRP Be the Backbone of Instant Global Payments? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Ripple has always said it wants to fix one of banking’s biggest problems: slow and expensive international payments. Now, a growing group of analysts believe the company may be closer to the center of global financial reform than most people realize.

A recent breakdown by Apex Crypto Insights argues that Ripple’s technology lines up almost perfectly with plans being discussed by major global institutions. The idea is simple but bold. If the world is rebuilding how money moves across borders, XRP could play a key role in that new system.

Here is what we know, and what is still just theory.

A Global Push for Faster Payments

In 2020, the G20 set a target to improve cross-border payments by 2027. The goal is clear: make transactions faster, cheaper, more transparent, and easier to access. Organizations such as the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures and the Financial Stability Board were assigned to help deliver on that promise, with backing from the Bank for International Settlements, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.

These institutions represent a major share of global GDP and trade. When they commit to reform, it often leads to real structural change.

Ripple’s Technology and the XRP Bridge

Ripple’s business model focuses on solving the exact problems policymakers are discussing. Its payment network allows financial institutions to settle cross-border transactions in seconds rather than days.

XRP, the digital asset connected to Ripple’s system, is designed to act as a bridge between currencies. Instead of relying on multiple correspondent banks, a payment can be converted into XRP, transferred quickly, and exchanged into the receiving currency almost instantly. This approach reduces delays and can lower transaction costs.

The overlap between Ripple’s solutions and the global reform agenda has fueled speculation that XRP could eventually play a larger role.

Project Nexus and the Hub Model

One important initiative is Project Nexus from the BIS Innovation Hub. The project aims to connect national instant payment systems so countries can send money directly between domestic networks.

Countries such as India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines have been mentioned in discussions. The structure is often described as a central hub that links different systems together.

Supporters of XRP argue this resembles the function of the XRP Ledger. However, there is no official confirmation that Nexus uses XRP. The connection remains based on similarities in design rather than public evidence.

Speculation vs. Reality

There is also growing discussion about creating a “unified ledger” where payment messaging and settlement happen on the same platform, instead of being separated as they are today.

Ripple’s leadership has repeatedly said blockchain technology can modernize or even replace parts of the current correspondent banking system. Still, the claim that XRP will become the backbone of global finance remains speculative.

What is clear is that cross-border payments are changing. Whether Ripple becomes central to that transformation is a question that only time will answer.

Standard Chartered Forecasts Stablecoin Growth to Fuel $1 Trillion in New T-Bill Demand by 2028

23 February 2026 at 20:14
White House Sets March 1 Deadline for Stablecoin Rewards Decision

The post Standard Chartered Forecasts Stablecoin Growth to Fuel $1 Trillion in New T-Bill Demand by 2028 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

According to new research from Standard Chartered, the companies behind stablecoins are on track to become some of the biggest buyers of U.S. Treasury bills. Standard Chartered suggests that the U.S. government might start selling more short-term debt to keep up with this new demand. To make room for all those extra T-bills, the Treasury could even hit the “pause” button on its 30-year bond auctions for a few years.

Stablecoin Market Cap Could Hit $2 Trillion By 2028

Standard Chartered analysts Geoffrey Kendrick and John Davies expect the stablecoin market to explode to $2 trillion by the end of 2028. As this market grows, companies like Tether and Circle will need to buy massive amounts of “safe” assets to back them up.

This surge is turning stablecoin issuers into some of the biggest customers for U.S. government debt. The analysts predict that these companies will likely buy between $800 billion to $1 trillion in short-term Treasury bills (T-bills) to use as reserves.

Also read: Crypto Bloodbath Today: Why Altcoins, Bitcoin Collapsed and What Comes Next

If the government keeps selling debt the way it does now, there won’t be enough T-bills to go around. As a result, demand could outpace supply by about $900 billion over the next three years.

Stablecoin supply
Stablecoin supply

As of now, the stablecoin market has grown to an estimated $300–$320 billion in total value. Companies like Tether and Circle (CRCL) have become significant investors in short-term U.S. government debt. To back tokens like USDT and USDC, they hold large reserves, much of which is invested in Treasury bills.

Tether has reported Treasury bill holdings comparable to those of some mid-sized countries, highlighting the scale of its reserves. Circle likewise maintains a substantial portion of its backing assets in short-term Treasuries, often through money market funds designed to hold highly liquid government securities.

Potential Impact on 30-Year Treasury Auctions

According to the report, shifting that amount of demand away from longer-term bonds could effectively pause 30-year Treasury auctions for as long as three years. By reducing the supply pressure on long-dated debt, such a move could also help relieve upward pressure on long-term yields.

Although it is not the bank’s main forecast, analysts see the 10-year Treasury yield climbing to about 4.6% by the end of 2026. They cautioned that growing demand for short-term government debt could create supply tightness at the front end of the yield curve.

Stablecoin expansion has slowed in recent months, hovering just above $300 billion in total market value. That is still higher than the roughly $238 billion recorded in April 2025, but momentum has cooled as cryptocurrency prices declined in recent weeks. Bitcoin, for example, has dropped more than 50% from its October 2025 high of $126,000, reducing trading activity and the associated demand for stablecoins.

Despite these pressures, Standard Chartered considers the slowdown temporary. The bank argues that stablecoins could generate nearly $1 trillion in additional demand for Treasury bills by 2028.

XRP Whale Alert: 31M XRP Flows Into Binance, Is a Sell-Off Coming

23 February 2026 at 20:04
XRP Price Crash

The post XRP Whale Alert: 31M XRP Flows Into Binance, Is a Sell-Off Coming appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

More than 31 million XRP were transferred to Binance in a single day, according to data from CryptoQuant. The scale and composition of the inflow have raised concerns about potential short-term selling pressure.

Binance remains the preferred venue for large transactions due to its deep liquidity, making it a common destination when holders reposition assets. This week’s inflow was driven predominantly by whale-sized wallets.

The distribution of transfers was as follows:

  • <1,000 XRP: 6,543
  • 1,000–10,000 XRP: 73,630
  • 10,000–100,000 XRP: 2,938,809
  • 100,000–1 million XRP: 14,236,825
  • Over 1 million XRP: 14,494,865

The two largest cohorts accounted for nearly the entire 31 million XRP transferred. In total, the inflow represents approximately $45 million in potential sell-side liquidity, a development that warrants close monitoring.

XRP

If sustained, this level of exchange inflow could weigh on price performance in the near term.

Price Under Pressure

XRP is currently trading around $1.38, down roughly 0.78 percent in the past 24 hours. While that drop may seem small, the broader picture looks more concerning. On-chain data shows a massive $1.93 billion in realized losses over the past week, marking the largest wave of capitulation since 2022. 

At the same time, the wider crypto market has been under pressure. Latest uncertainty around upcoming U.S. tariffs and rising geopolitical tensions have pushed investors into risk-off mode. Bitcoin itself dropped more sharply, and XRP followed the market trend.

Investor Frustration Adds Fuel

Adding to the tension, longtime crypto investor Crypto Bitlord publicly criticized Ripple, claiming that XRP holders have “never benefited” while the company allegedly sold billions worth of tokens to fund acquisitions. His comments came in response to an older post by Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse highlighting the company’s acquisition of Hidden Road, now rebranded as Ripple Prime.

While those claims show frustration among some investors, they remain controversial and do not represent an official market conclusion.

Technical Picture: Levels to Watch

From a technical standpoint, XRP recently retested support around the February 11 low near $1.35, where buyers stepped in again. However, the bounce has been weak so far.

For bulls to regain control, XRP needs to break above the first major resistance near $1.46 to $1.47. A stronger push above $1.51 would improve short-term sentiment further.

On the downside, if XRP fails to hold the $1.30 support zone, the next major level sits near $1.20. A breakdown below that area could accelerate selling pressure, especially with tariff implementation expected on February 24.

Crash or Consolidation?

Right now, the market is oversold but fragile. Whale inflows to Binance suggest positioning, but they do not automatically confirm a crash. Much depends on whether support holds and whether buyers step in with strength.

For now, XRP stands at a critical crossroads. The next move could set the tone for weeks ahead.

“Qarabağ” “Nyukasl” üçün yola düşdü

23 February 2026 at 20:32

“Qarabağ” Çempionlar Liqasının pley-off mərhələsində sabah “Nyukasl”ın qonağı olacaq.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “atlılar” matç üçün İngiltərəyə yola düşüb.

Sabah keçiriləcək görüşə saat 00:00-da start veriləcək. Komandalar arasındakı ilk oyunda “Nyukasl” qələbə qazanıb – 6:1.

“Neftçi” onun formasını əbədiləşdirir

23 February 2026 at 20:25

“Neftçi” əfsanəvi futbolçusu Anatoli Banişevskinin 9 nömrəli formasını əbədiləşdirib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə klubun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.

“Neftçi” Peşəkar Futbol Klubunun qərarı ilə, 2026/27 mövsümündən etibarən komandanın 9 nömrəli forması fevralın 23-də anadan olmasından 80 il ötən unudulmaz Anatoli Banişevskinin xatirəsinə əbədiləşdirilir.

Bu, fəaliyyətdə olduğu 89 il ərzində Azərbaycan futbolunu hər zaman irəli aparmış “Neftçi”yə, onun şanlı tarixinə, formasını geyinmiş yüzlərlə futbolçuya əfsanəvi Anatoli Banişevskinin simasında sərgilədiyi hörmətdir.

Hakimlər Komitəsinin sədri mübahisəli epizodları şərh etdi

23 February 2026 at 19:39

AFFA Hakimlər Komitəsinin sədri Rəhim Həsənov Misli Premyer Liqasının XXI turunun oyunlarında qeydə alınan mübahisəli epizodlarla bağlı fikirlərini bildirib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, funksioner turdakı mübahisəli epizodlarda hakimlərin doğru qərar verdiyini deyib:

AC Milan target Liverpool defender Joe Gomez

AC Milan are interested in signing Joe Gomez from Liverpool in the summer transfer window, according to CaughtOffSide. Gomez is out of contract at the Premier League club in the summer of 2027. Bayern Munich are also said to be interested in a 2026 summer deal for Gomez, with West Ham United and Brighton and […]

The post AC Milan target Liverpool defender Joe Gomez appeared first on Soccer News.

The post AC Milan target Liverpool defender Joe Gomez appeared first on Soccer News.

Manchester United and Liverpool want Mateus Mane

Manchester United are among the clubs that are keen on signing Mateus Mane from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer transfer window, according to CaughtOffSide. The report has claimed that Arsenal and Liverpool are also interested in a summer deal for the versatile English forward. A source told CaughtOffSide: ‘Wolves accept that it’s going to be […]

The post Manchester United and Liverpool want Mateus Mane appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Manchester United and Liverpool want Mateus Mane appeared first on Soccer News.

Manchester United and Arsenal target Nathaniel Brown

Manchester United are interested in signing Nathaniel Brown from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer transfer window, according to CaughtOffSide. Liverpool are also said to have shown a keen interest in securing the services of Brown. The 22-year-old Germany international left-back is the subject of interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid, too, while Manchester City, Bayern […]

The post Manchester United and Arsenal target Nathaniel Brown appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Manchester United and Arsenal target Nathaniel Brown appeared first on Soccer News.

Blackburn Rovers could sell Todd Cantwell

Blackburn Rovers could sell Todd Cantwell in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. Rangers are among the clubs that are keen on a deal for Cantwell, and the 27-year-old attacking midfielder is said to be ready to sever ties with Rovers. Journalist Pete O’Rourke has noted: “If Blackburn were to go down, then […]

The post Blackburn Rovers could sell Todd Cantwell appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Blackburn Rovers could sell Todd Cantwell appeared first on Soccer News.

Arsenal linked with Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez

Arsenal are interested in signing Emmanuel Fernandez from Rangers in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. However, Rangers have no plans to cash in on the 24-year-old defender. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, he’s been a success story for Rangers, Fernandez, since his arrival from Peterborough last summer. “It’s no surprise maybe that […]

The post Arsenal linked with Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Arsenal linked with Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez appeared first on Soccer News.

With Joey Aguilar gone, all eyes are on George MacIntyre

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 13: George MacIntyre #15 of the Tennessee Volunteers throws the ball before a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Georgia Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images

With the recent denial of an injunction for Joey Aguilar to become eligible to play in the 2026 season, the Tennessee quarterback situation has shifted its focus to a couple of youngsters without much experience. However, both were big-time prospects coming out of the high school ranks, both recruited and landed by Josh Heupel and his offensive staff.

The leader heading into the spring is George MacIntyre, who signed with Tennessee in the class of 2025. MacIntyre, a mid-state product out of Brentwood, Tennessee, comes from a football family that has already made its mark in the Volunteer State. His grandfather George was the head coach at both UT-Martin and Vanderbilt in the ‘70s and ‘80s. His uncle Mike has been the head coach at San Jose State, Colorado and FIU.

Now MacIntyre, a redshirt freshman, will try to win the starting quarterback job for Tennessee.

As a prospect

The 6-6, 195 pound passer finished his recruiting cycle as a 4-star prospect, ranked 151st overall in the class, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. That billing wasn’t always the case though. MacIntyre committed to Tennessee as a 5-star prospect, ranked among the top 20 players in the class. An injury kept him out of the Elite 11 competition though, which seemed to start his slide down.

At Brentwood Academy, MacIntyre threw for 3,229 yards and 25 touchdowns as a junior. He threw for another 2,702 yards and 17 touchdowns as a senior. He was also a star on the basketball court, earning multiple D-1 offers.

MacIntyre’s best physical trait was, and likely still is, his big arm and touch down the field. That was on full display at the high school level.

MacIntyre committed to Tennessee in January of 2024 over offers from Alabama, LSU, Georgia and dozens of others.

MacIntyre in 2025

MacIntyre enrolled early at Tennessee ahead of spring practice last year. He was immediately pushed into action in a battle for the backup quarterback role behind Nico Iamaleava — and briefly — a potential starter after Iamaleava left. Tennessee quickly added Joey Aguilar though, allowing the true freshman to redshirt and get acclimated to the Heupel offense.

He would make his debut against ETSU in September, completing six of seven passes for 52 yards. He came back later in the year, going one of two for 17 yards.

Every pass attempt from Tennessee QB George MacIntyre during his true freshman 2025 season ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/bFcxOrfGeF

— Ryan Sylvia (@RyanTSylvia) February 22, 2026

What’s next for MacIntyre

Josh Heupel has done a great job during his time at Tennessee in adapting his offense to what he has. He’s not one that tries to fit players into his system — he adapts his system to his players. How does that look with MacIntyre running the show? Well, based on high school tape and traits, it should look at lot like what Tennessee ran with Aguilar.

MacIntrye fits with his ability to push the ball down the field, and he wouldn’t be short on weapons. Tennessee still has Braylon Staley and Mike Matthews, along with Radarious Jackson and Travis Smith. They’ll add 5-star receiver Tristan Keys and 4-star speedster Tyreek King. Tight ends Ethan Davis and DaSaahn Brame are back, along with four starters up front. Not to mention DeSean Bishop’s return to the Tennessee backfield.

We’re just a few weeks away from spring camp opening where MacIntyre will enter with a big lead. No. 2 overall player in the 2026 class Faizon Brandon will also be in the mix, but he’s a year behind in learning the offense. Veteran Ryan Staub is also in the room, but likely for depth purposes only.

Heupel took a couple of swings in the transfer portal for some big name seniors, but came up empty. Now with Aguilar’s fate sealed, it’s time for Heupel to turn to a name that he recruited out of high school. It’s just the second time that’s happened during his time in Knoxville, with the first attempt ending poorly due to something that was seemingly out of his control.

Regardless of how the competition plays out, it will be the fifth new starting quarterback for Tennessee in five years.

For now, all eyes are on the slender MacIntyre as he attempts to put on weight ahead of a loaded SEC schedule. New strength coach Derek Owings undoubtedly hit the ground running on that front. MacIntrye was listed at 195 pounds officially by Tennessee last season after signing with the Vols around the 180 mark. I would imagine that number would be well over 200 by the fall.

So in a just a few weeks now, the quarterback competition is officially on. MacIntyre has already been working with his receivers on his own, building chemistry ahead of a key offseason. How will things look? Nobody knows — but we’re all excited to see.

12 Best, Worst, WTF Moments From the Winter Olympics

12 Best, Worst, WTF Moments From the Winter Olympics

While the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics has showcased some of the greatest athletes in the world and extraordinary displays of sportsmanship, they’ve also been some of the messiest Games in recent memory. Rumors about penis injections were swirling, condoms were running out, and a fugitive hockey fan was arrested after 16 years on the run. We’re talking Bravo levels of drama.

In case you haven’t spent the past two weeks glued to Olympic coverage, here are 10 of the most memorable moments of the 2026 Milan Cortina Games.

Best: Alysa Liu Ended U.S. Women’s Figure Skating’s Gold-Medal Dry Spell

Best: Alysa Liu Ended U.S. Women’s Figure Skating’s Gold-Medal Dry Spell

U.S. figure skater Alysa Liu won gold at the 2026 Olympics — the first time an American woman has done so in 24 years — joining the ranks of legends like Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill, Kristi Yamaguchi, and Tara Lipinski. Better yet, she did it her way.

The first time Liu, now 20, made history was when she became the youngest women’s national champion at age 13. Three years later, she did something unprecedented: She stepped away from the sport, retiring at what was seemingly the peak of her career. The reason? Mental strain and burnout. 

Liu spent the next two years traveling, backpacking, and studying psychology at UCLA. After having time to regroup, she started skating again — this time, on her own terms — setting her own schedule and being involved with every decision related to her programs. The result was her gold-medal-winning skate to Donna Summer’s version of “MacArthur Park” in a gold dress she chose herself.

Worst: Olympic Village Ran Out of Condoms After 3 Days

Worst: Olympic Village Ran Out of Condoms After 3 Days

Since 1988, horny athletes have enjoyed a seemingly unlimited supply of free condoms available in the Olympic village. But there must be something in the air in Milan, because this year’s 2,800 Olympians blew through roughly 10,000 condoms in three days, Italian outlet La Stampa reported

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed the condom shortage, blaming “higher-than-aniticipated” demand, and said that they planned to “continuously replenish until the end of the Games to ensure continued availability.” The Olympic village’s condoms were, in fact, restocked.

WTF: Biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid Begs Girlfriend for Forgiveness After Cheating on Her

WTF: Biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid Begs Girlfriend for Forgiveness After Cheating on Her

In a post-race interview shortly after winning a bronze medal, Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid said that he had a message for someone “who might not be watching today”: his ex-girlfriend. He explained that they dated for six months, but that three months ago he cheated on “the love of [his] life, the most beautiful and kindest person.”

Lægreid opted to tell his girlfriend about his infidelity one week before he competed in the Olympic Games. “It’s been the worst week of my life,” he told Norwegian Broadcasting Corp. But he didn’t stop there.

“I’m not ready to give up,” Lægreid said. “I hope that committing social suicide [like this] might show her how much I love her. I accept the consequences of what I’ve done. I regret it with all my heart. Maybe I’m dumb as a rock. I’m a member of Mensa, but I still do stupid stuff.”

A few days after his stunt, Lægreid’s ex-girlfriend, who understandably wishes to remain anonymous, told Norwegian tabloid VG that it will be “hard to forgive” him for cheating on her and airing their dirty laundry on the world stage.

“I did not choose to be put in this position, and it hurts to have to be in it,” she told the publication. “We have had contact, and he is aware of my opinions on this.”

Best: Slovenian Skier Siblings Make History

Best: Slovenian Skier Siblings Make History

Domen and Nika Prevc, brother and sister ski jumpers from Slovenia, arrived in Milan as gold medal favorites. The siblings lived up to the hype, with Nika taking silver in the women’s normal hill event, and Domen winning gold in the men’s large hill event. On top of that, the pair — along with their teammates, Anže Lanišek and Nika Vodan — won the gold medal in mixed team ski jumping. This made Domen and Nika the first brother and sister to win a medal on the normal hill at the same Olympics.

But that’s not all the Prevc family has accomplished. Domen and Nika have two older brothers, Cene and Peter, who both medaled in (what else) ski jumping at the 2022 Beijing Games. Thanks to Domen and Nika’s success in Milan, the Prevc family is the first to have four siblings each earn a Winter Olympic medal.

Worst: A Ukrainian Athlete’s Memorial Helmet Got Him Disqualified

Worst: A Ukrainian Athlete’s Memorial Helmet Got Him Disqualified

A Ukrainian skeleton racer was disqualified from the Winter Olympics after insisting on wearing a “helmet of remembrance” featuring images of 24 Ukrainian athletes and coaches killed in the war with Russia. He was “not allowed to participate at Milano Cortina 2026 after refusing to adhere to the IOC athlete expression guidelines,” the IOC said in a statement, referring to rules prohibiting any kind of political statement by competitors.

The IOC did, however, offer to display his helmet during all training runs and immediately after the skeleton competition. But Vladyslav Heraskevych refused to back down and compete without his helmet because, he said, there are things that are “more important than medals.”

Best: A ‘Golden Goal’ Propelled the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team to Victory

Best: A ‘Golden Goal’ Propelled the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team to Victory

The U.S. men’s hockey team won a gold medal at the Olympics for the first time in 46 years, beating Canada 2-1. Yes, that’s right: the last time the team came out on top at the Games was 1980’s “Miracle on Ice,” when a ragtag group of college players defeated the team from the Soviet Union, followed by Finland, and took home gold. 

This time, the U.S. men’s hockey team was stacked with NHL players, and beat our friendly neighbors to the north. While the game didn’t have the same Cold War symbolism as the one in Lake Placid, it did end with a dramatic “Golden Goal” courtesy of Jack Hughes during three-on-three overtime. 
Unfortunately for Heated Rivalry fans, no player made out with his boyfriend on the ice following the massive win.

WTF: ‘Penisgate’ Put the Spotlight on Male Ski Jumpers’ Crotches

WTF: ‘Penisgate’ Put the Spotlight on Male Ski Jumpers’ Crotches

The World Anti-Doping Association (WADA) is investigating claims that male ski jumpers inject their penises with hyaluronic acid in a scandal dubbed “Penisgate” by the German outlet Bild.  

So what do schlong shots have to do with ski jumping? Believe it or not, there’s a scientific explanation. The hyaluronic acid plumps up the penis, so that when 3D scanners measure them for their ski suits, they should, at least in theory, be issued a larger, looser suit. This, in turn, could help them jump longer distances, with the suit’s baggy crotch acting like a sail catching wind.

The concept isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds: a study published in the journal Frontiers found that a 2 cm change in the size of a ski jumping suit could mean gaining an extra 5.8 meters in jump length. 

For now, no ski jumpers have been caught doing this at the Olympics. However, one plastic surgeon has confirmed that he injected a “generous dose of hyaluronic acid” into the penis of a ski jumper last month, though he wouldn’t disclose the athlete’s nationality or whether he was competing in the Olympics.

Best: The ‘Minions’-Themed Skating Routine Made It to the Ice

Best: The ‘Minions’-Themed Skating Routine Made It to the Ice

All Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate wanted to do was perform his Minion routine at the Olympics. He had been entertaining crowds with the program — featuring four cuts of music from the Minions movie, and him dressed as a Minion — all season, and thought he had approval for his songs and costume. Turns out, he didn’t, and found out four days before the Olympics’ opening ceremony. 

But Sabate didn’t let this derail his Olympic dreams. Instead, he dusted off a Bee Gees routine from last year, stayin’ alive in the competition and making the best out of a bad situation. It all worked out in the end, though — Sabate’s Minion music was approved two hours before the Olympic figure skating program opened with the team event.

Worst: The ‘Quad God’ Doesn’t Make the Podium

Worst: The ‘Quad God’ Doesn’t Make the Podium

American figure skater Ilia Malinin — nicknamed the “Quad God” — arrived at the Olympics as the overwhelming favorite to win gold in the men’s competition. While he came out of the short program with a 5.09-point lead, he fell multiple times during free skate, and came in eighth overall. Not only that, but he failed to land any of the quadruple jumps that he’s known for, leading to one of the most shocking upsets in U.S. figure skating history. 

Fortunately for Malinin, he’ll also be remembered for landing the first legal backflip on Olympic ice since 1976. The controversial move was banned that year after American Terry Kubicka did one at the 1976 Innsbruck Games. But the most famous backflip of all time came courtesy of France’s figure skating powerhouse Surya Bonaly at the 1998 Nagano Olympics. When it became clear that Bonaly wasn’t going to medal, she included an illegal backflip in her final program, landing on one skate. The International Skating Union lifted the backflip ban in 2024 — though it still doesn’t add points.

WTF: A Slovak Hockey Fan on the Run for 16 Years Is Arrested

WTF: A Slovak Hockey Fan on the Run for 16 Years Is Arrested

On Feb. 11, Italian police arrested a 44-year-old Slovak fugitive who had been on the lam for 16 years. The warrant for his arrest was issued in 2010 after he committed a string of thefts in Italy. Despite being wanted in the country, the man returned to Italy to cheer on the Slovak hockey team at the Olympics. 

But his love for the game ended up being his downfall. Local police found the hockey fan at a guesthouse on the outskirts of Milan, and promptly took him to prison, where he’ll serve 11 months and seven days for his crimes.

Worst: Trump Calls U.S. Olympian ‘A Real Loser’

Worst: Trump Calls U.S. Olympian ‘A Real Loser’

At a news conference on the first day of the Games, when asked what it means to represent the United States in the current climate domestically and internationally, U.S. freeskier Hunter Hess said it “brings up mixed emotions” and was “a little hard.” He continued: “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of and think a lot of people aren’t… But just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean that I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.” Hess went on to clarify that he was proud to represent his “friends and family back home, and all the things that I believe are good about the United States.”

Naturally, President Donald Trump couldn’t resist weighing in, writing on his Truth Social platform: “U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn’t represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it. Very hard to root for someone like this.”

Best: Flavor Flav Goes From Hype Man to Olympic Hopeful

Best: Flavor Flav Goes From Hype Man to Olympic Hopeful

The USA Bobsled and Skeleton team rolled up to the 2026 Olympics with a secret weapon: Flavor Flav. In October the team announced that the Grammy-nominated Olympics superfan would serve as their official hype man and sponsor. “The partnership is a blessing,” Flav said in a statement. “It’s cooler than Cool Runnings. It’s Coolest Runnings.” But he wanted more.

After cheering on the team — especially the women — from the sidelines in Cortina, Flav decided that he wanted to get in on the action. “Yes, your boy has taken a ride in the 4 man bobsled, but im an adrenaline junkie and needed to try skeleton,” he wrote on X on Monday. “And now I’ve officially joined the team and am gonna try to start competing. 66 yo going 66 mph.” 

On Thursday, Flav discussed his desire to compete for the U.S. Bobsled and Skeleton team in a video with its coaches. “You’d better watch out because you know what, you might find me in the Olympics next year,” Flav says in an Instagram video from USA Bobsled and Skeleton. “I’m going to train skeleton and bobsled. That’s right: I’m with my future coaches, boyeeeeeeee.”

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Notre Dame&#39;s Jeremiyah Love can impact NFL Draft rankings with 40-yard dash Combine decision

Jeremiyah Love

Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love can impact NFL Draft rankings with 40-yard dash Combine decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Jeremiyah Love is the consensus No. 1 running back in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Notre Dame superstar is hoping to move himself as close to the top of overall draft boards as he can with a strong performance this week at the NFL Draft Combine in Indianapolis.

Love isn't going to hold back, either. He's planning to be a full participant at the event.

"Jeremiyah Love, I am told, expected to participate in drills," NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said on Monday. "He is expected to run the 40 (yard dash)."

Love is ranked No. 2 on the NFL.com big board.

Given his status as the top RB in the draft, Love could've chosen to hold back at the Combine, particularly in the 40-yard dash.

Instead, he clearly is confident in what he's capable of and wants to take to the turf at Lucas Oil Stadium with a chance to impress.

MORE: This QB may actually be the biggest prize of free agency

Running back has been a devalued position in recent years, but Love is the rare exception who will likely be a top-10 pick despite playing a spot that is declining in value.

His best chances of sticking that high in the draft as a whole are to absolutely dominate in Indy. If he drops an incredible 40-yard dash time, his stock will only rise. It'll remove any doubts that might exist about selecting an RB that high in the draft.

Love will have a great shot at NFL success no matter where he goes, and he's not going to be lacking for interested teams. Still, he's decided to put himself out there for all to see at the Combine, which is a cool move.

More NFL news:

Gianluca Prestianni suspended: Benfica player to miss Real Madrid 2nd leg as Vinicius incident investigated

Gianluca Prestianni suspended: Benfica player to miss Real Madrid 2nd leg as Vinicius incident investigated originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Gianluca Prestianni will miss Benfica's Champions League clash with Real Madrid on Wednesday after being hit with a suspension.

The 20-year-old was accused by Vinicius Junior of racist abuse during last week's first leg of the knockout-playoff tie. The Brazil star alleged he was abused after celebrating his goal in the 1-0 win and immediately informed the referee, who initiated the anti-racism protocol that saw the game halted for around 10 minutes.

Madrid players including Kylian Mbappe supported Vinicius' claims, while Prestianni and Benfica denied he made racist remarks. The winger argued that Vinicius misheard him, adding: "I was never racist and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players."

While the case is investigated, Prestianni will have to sit out the second leg.

MORE:What happened with Vinicius in the first leg, and the reaction that followed

Gianluca Prestianni suspended for Real Madrid game

Prestianni was issued a one-game ban by UEFA on February 23, two days before the second leg of the playoff tie at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Argentina international's suspension is provisional while European football's governing body investigates the allegations against him. Benfica said they would appeal against the decision but acknowledged this would likely be unsuccessful as the match is so soon.

A UEFA statement said: "Following the appointment of a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector (EDI) to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour during the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 Knock-out Play-off match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid CF on 17 February 2026, and upon request of the EDI with an interim report, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) today decided to provisionally suspend Mr. Gianluca Prestianni for the next (1) UEFA club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible for the prima facie violation of Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR) related to a discriminatory behaviour.

"This is without prejudice to any ruling that the UEFA disciplinary bodies may subsequently make following the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and its respective submission to the UEFA disciplinary bodies.

"Further information about this matter will be made available in due course."

Should Prestianni be found guilty of racist abuse, he will face a more severe punishment, likely including a far longer suspension.

Benfica statement after Prestianni banned

Benfica said they would appeal against the one-game provisional ban but with the expectation that Prestianni would not be made available for Wednesday's game regardless.

"The club regrets being deprived of a player while the process is still under investigation and will appeal this decision by UEFA, even though the deadlines in question are unlikely to have any practical effect on the second leg of the Champions League playoff," Benfica said.

The club then added that it remained committed to combatting discrimination, mentioning Eusebio, the Mozambique-born Benfica great considered one of the finest players in history.

The statement said: "Sport Lisboa e Benfica also reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating all forms of racism or discrimination, values ​​that are part of its historical identity and are reflected in its daily actions, its global community, the work of the Benfica Foundation, and major figures in the club's history, such as Eusebio."

What did Vinicius and Prestianni say about alleged racism incident?

Vinicius did not speak to reporters after the match but posted a reaction on his Instagram account.

"Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts over their mouths to demonstrate how weak they are," he wrote. "But they have, on their side, the protection of others who, theoretically, have the obligation to punish."

Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni both alleged after the game that they heard Prestianni, who was covering his mouth with his shirt at the time of the incident, call Vinicius "monkey". Tchouameni also said Prestianni denied using the word and had instead directed a homophobic slur at Vinicius.

Prestianni did not speak publicly until Benfica posted a statement from him in the hours after the match in which he said he was "misunderstood" in the incident and claimed that Real Madrid players directed "threats" in his direction.

"I want to clarify that at no time did I address racist insults to the player Vinicius Jr, who unfortunately misunderstood what he thinks he has heard. I was never racist and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players," he said.

Following that, Benfica posted a video to the club's social media, attempting to show that the Real Madrid players could not have heard the alleged racist comments properly.

How long could Gianluca Prestianni be banned?

If he is found guilty of racism by UEFA's investigator, Prestianni could face a 10-match ban.

Annex B of UEFA's disciplinary code, entitled 'European Football United Against Racism Resolution', states: "Any player or team official found guilty of racist conduct must be suspended for at least ten matches (or a corresponding period of time for club representatives)."

In this scenario, Benfica would also be required to run a racism awareness programme. "Education will help to address the problem, both in football and in wider society," UEFA says.

Want to volunteer at the Milwaukee Marathon? Here&#39;s what to do

Perhaps you're not a runner but don't mind some outdoor air on, say, April 11 or 12, when the Journal Sentinel Milwaukee Marathon events are under way.

The marathon and half marathon get started at 7 a.m. Saturday, April 11, with the 5K running the following day. Along the way, runners will encounter Discovery World, Lincoln Memorial Drive, the Oak Leaf Trail, the Third Ward, Walker's Point and Bay View, on their way to the finish at Humboldt Park.

Interested in helping out? All volunteers are required to register through the official registration process on the EnMotive volunteer registration page, and the sign up page shows all available volunteer opportunities. Volunteers will need to be available for the duration of the listed time frame.

(Right) Krista Staley approaches the 2025 Milwaukee Marathon finish line, she finished 1st overall female with a time of 2:51:18, on Saturday April 12, 2025 at Humboldt Park in Milwaukee, Wis.

Roles include assigning bibs and distributing goodie bags, corraling runners at the start line, welcoming runners to the finish, directing along the course and cheering on the participants.

Groups of 15 or more volunteers can sign up together, an opportunity for schools, clubs, sports teams and more. Ventures Endurance can provide either a donation or verification of community service hours in return. Groups will only be eligible for these benefits by fulfilling the committed volunteer hours and requirements, and groups will need to indicate the specific number of volunteers planning to help, ensuring the marathon has the right number of volunteers overall.

All questions can be directed to volunteer@venturesendurance.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Want to volunteer at the Milwaukee Marathon? Here's what to do

Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni handed provisional ban over Vinicius Jr racism incident in Champions League

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended for one game while Uefa investigates allegations that the 20-year-old racially abused Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr in their Champions League play-off first leg.

Prestianni was seen holding his shirt over his mouth during a heated exchange with Madrid players following Vinicius’s second-half goal. The Brazilian winger rushed to the referee to report what he claimed was racist abuse.

The French official, Francois Letexier, paused the match for 11 minutes after activating Fifa’s anti-racism protocols, but the action later continued with Prestianni on the field. Fans inside the Estadio Da Luz loudly booed and jeered Vinicius throughout the remainder of the game, as Real Madrid saw out a 1-0 victory.

Prestianni’s manager, Jose Mourinho, later blamed Vinicius for “inciting” Benfica’s players with his exuberant goal celebration, while Prestianni denied he had used racist language, claiming he had been misheard while using a homophobic slur.

Gianluca Prestianni (right) was accused of racism by Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid players (AFP/Getty)
Gianluca Prestianni (right) was accused of racism by Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid players (AFP/Getty)

But Vinicius’s teammate, Kylian Mbappe said he had heard the offensive words, adding that he did not think Prestianni deserved to play in the Santiago Bernabeu, where Madrid will host Benfica for the second leg on Wednesday evening.

“There was player No 25 (Prestianni) from Benfica – I don’t want to mention his name, he doesn’t deserve it,” Mbappe said, “who started speaking rudely and saying insults. That’s unacceptable, but it happens in football and it will always happen.

“Then he put his shirt down here and said ‘monkey, monkey, monkey, monkey, monkey’. I heard him say it, and some Benfica players heard him too, and then everything you saw started.”

Vinicius Jr (right) claimed he was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni (AFP/Getty)
Vinicius Jr (right) claimed he was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni (AFP/Getty)

Now the Argentine will not be involved in the second leg after being handed a provisional one-match ban.

Uefa said in a statement: “Following the appointment of a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector (EDI) to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour ... and upon request of the EDI with an interim report, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) today decided to provisionally suspend Mr Gianluca Prestianni for the next UEFA club competition match.

“This is without prejudice to any ruling that the UEFA disciplinary bodies may subsequently make following the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and its respective submission to the UEFA disciplinary bodies. Further information about this matter will be made available in due course.”

Mourinho has meanwhile cancelled his pre-match press conference ahead of the meeting in Madrid after coming in for severe criticism from across the football world.

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany was particularly strong in his assessment that Mourinho had made a “huge mistake” blaming Vinicius for the incident.

“When you watch the action itself and how Vini reacted, that reaction cannot be faked,” Kompany said. “You can see it was an emotional reaction. I don’t see any benefit for him to go to the referee and put all this misery on his shoulders. In that moment he saw that it was the right thing to do.

Jose Mourinho attempted to discuss the incident with Real's players (Getty)
Jose Mourinho attempted to discuss the incident with Real's players (Getty)

“Kylian Mbappe normally always stays diplomatic, but he was very clear about what he saw and heard. Then there’s the Benfica player who was hiding what he was saying in his shirt. In the stadium you can see there were people [Benfica fans] doing monkey signs, it’s in the video.

“And for me, what happened after the game is even worse. Jose Mourinho has basically attacked the character of Vini Jr by bringing in the type of Vini’s celebration to discredit what he was doing at that moment. It was a huge mistake in terms of leadership.

“On top of that, Mourinho mentioned the name of Eusebio. He said Benfica cannot be racist because their best ever player was Eusebio. Do you know what Black players had to go through in the 60s? Was he there to travel with Eusebio every away game and see what he went through?”

Prestianni will now await the findings of Uefa’s investigation. Uefa’s disciplinary rules state that anyone found to have used insults on discriminatory grounds on issues such as a race, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation “incurs a suspension lasting at least ten matches or a specified period of time, or any other appropriate sanction”.

National High School Girls Basketball Top 25 Rankings – Feb. 23

The high school girls basketball 2025-26 season is either at the end of the regular season or early rounds of the playoffs for most states as programs inch their way closer to reaching a state championship berth or remaining in contention on the national stage.

Ontario Christian (Calif.) remains firmly as the nation’s top team with a 30-1 record as no new teams enter this week’s Top 25 high school girls basketball rankings. Who else joins the Knights as the season winds down in the latest set of high school girls basketball Top 25?

Here’s a look at the latest set of top 25 high school girls basketball teams in the country according to the Massey Ratings, which ranks teams by analyzing game outcomes, strength of schedule and margin of victory, as of Feb. 23.

1. Ontario Christian Knights (Calif.) (30-1)

The Ontario Christian Knights (30-1) have bounced back from their lone loss of the season and have responded nicely with a nine-game winning streak. Ontario Christian is scoring points at a rapid pace as the Knights are averaging a staggering 92.5 points per game. Making the case all season long to be the national Player of the Year is junior point guard Kaleena Smith, who is currently leading the team with an impressive 32.4 points, 7.1 assists, 4.8 steals and 3.5 rebounds per contest. The Knights most recent victory was a 114-50 decision over Fairmont Preparatory Academy.

2. Hopkins Royals (Minn.) (21-2)

Making a leap up one spot is last year’s Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) AAAA state champion Hopkins Royals (21-2), which finished 27-5 a year ago and on track to repeat. Hopkins wasn’t a team full of star power last season en route to winning another state title, but brings back plenty of talent to begin the fall campaign on everyone’s radar. Junior point-forward Erma Walker was crucial for the Royals in beating Maple Grove a year ago, with 28 points and eight rebounds. The only losses for Hopkins this 2025-26 season is a 46-43 decision to Iowa’s Dowling Catholic, the No. 8 team in our rankings, and No. 4 Wayzata.

3. Johnston Dragons (IA) (25-0)

The Johnston Dragons (25-0) look very much in line to win a third straight Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) Class 5A state championship after finishing with a 26-0 record in 2024-25. The Dragons are currently on a 76-game winning streak dating back to 2023, which has seen the program notch back-to-back state titles. Senior point guard Jenica Lewis, who scored 12 points in last year’s state title game, is back in the fold after a strong junior campaign. Lewis has offers from Iowa, UNC, Notre Dame, Oregon and TCU. Dragons have extended their longstanding winning streak now to 76 straight contests as they head into the Iowa high school girls basketball postseason.

4. Bishop McNamara Mustangs (Md.) (26-2)

Bishop McNamara (26-2), which has been among one of the country’s top high school girls basketball programs all season long this year, checks in at No. 4. The Mustangs only two losses on the season have come to St. Frances Academy (Md.) and Long Island Lutheran (N.Y.). Other than that, the Mustangs have been perfect, boasting a 21-2 record playing one of the toughest schedules in the country. The Mustangs notched two blowout victories last week over Paul VI Catholic and St. Mary’s Ryken.

5. Wayzata Trojans (Minn.) (20-5)

Dropping down to No. 5 in the latest update of the national high school girls basketball Top 25 rankings are the Wayzata Trojans (20-5), which lost back-to-back heartbreakers toHopkins and Minnetonka. Having knocked off Hopkins before this season along with several blowout victories along the way, it’s easy to see why this Trojans squad is one of the best in the Midwest. Wayzata will look to head into the postseason aiming to bounce back from the first two-game losing streak of the campaign.

Massey Ratings National High School Girls Basketball Rankings Nos. 11-25

6. Archbishop Mitty Monarchs (Calif.) (23-2)
7. Long Island Lutheran Crusaders (NY) (16-5)
8. Sierra Canyon Trailblazers (Calif.) (27-2)
9. Etiwanda Eagles (Calif.) (29-2)
10. Wauwatosa East Red Raiders (WI) (23-0)

11. Incarnate Word Academy Red Knights (MO) (17-2)
12. Providence Academy Lions (Pa.) (18-4)
13. The St. James Academy Strivers (Va.) (12-3)
14. Dowling Catholic Maroons (IA) (21-3)
15. Westtown School Moose (Pa.) (16-1)

16. Rosemount Irish (Minn.) (21-3)
17. Arrowhead Warhawks (WI) (22-2)
18. Maple Grove Crimson (Minn.) (20-5)
19. MinnetonkaSkippers (Minn.) (19-5)
20. Orono Senior Spartans (Minn.) (18-3)

21. Mayo Senior Spartans (Minn.) (23-0)
22. Princess Anne Cavaliers (Va.) (21-0)
23. OostburgFlying Dutchmen (WI) (22-0)
24. Bradley Central Bears (Tenn.) (30-0)
25. DME Academy Lakers (Fla.) (12-2)

College basketball analyst shares evidence Kansas&#39; Darryn Peterson is actually playing through injury

College basketball analyst shares evidence Kansas' Darryn Peterson is actually playing through injury originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There are growing concerns around Kansas freshman star Darryn Peterson, but there might be more to the story we're not being told. Many people have questioned his competitiveness amid a season marked by missed games and in-game exits. However, one prominent college basketball analyst believes there is tangible evidence the projected No. 1 NBA Draft pick is battling through an injury. 

Two social media posts by The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie shows side-by-side clips comparing Peterson’s high school film to his recent performances with the Kansas Jayhawks. Vecenie pointed out the visible differences in Peterson’s burst, lift and lateral movement, suggesting the freshman guard is playing through a significant injury rather than opting out of games by choice.

“I get the way it's being handled is weird, but the tape doesn't lie. He's clearly not right and playing through injury,” Vecenie wrote, highlighting diminished explosiveness compared to Peterson’s prep career in Canton, Ohio.

Then on drives, Darryn Peterson has nowhere near same burst, hangtime or explosiveness around the rim. One from today, two from Prolific vs. LuHi last year.

I get the way it's being handled is weird, but the tape doesn't lie. He's clearly not right and playing through injury. pic.twitter.com/pp03tW8QEa

— Sam Vecenie (@Sam_Vecenie) February 21, 2026

The debate intensified after Peterson logged just 18 minutes and benched himself in the second half of a win at Oklahoma State, drawing national scrutiny, including criticism from Stephen A. Smith, who questioned whether NBA teams should consider him with the top pick.

Kansas coach Bill Self acknowledged the concern after that game, saying availability could define the Jayhawks’ postseason ceiling. Peterson has missed 11 of Kansas’ 27 games, dealing with hamstring and ankle injuries along with persistent cramping. He was also a late scratch in a win over then-unbeaten Arizona due to flu-like symptoms.

MoreMichigan-Duke ticket prices set a Washington DC record for sporting event

The Jayhawks are 9-2 without Peterson, a statistic that has led to questions about chemistry. Yet Vecenie’s analysis reframes the conversation. This now appears to be a player disengaging, but also pushing through physical limitations.

Kansas faces No. 2 Houston on Monday night with the NCAA tournament less than a month away. The larger question is no longer just whether Peterson will play but whether he can regain the explosiveness that once made him the consensus top prospect. 

More college basketball news:

Rooney criticises Arsenal star despite derby heroics

Rooney criticises Arsenal star despite derby heroics
Rooney criticises Arsenal star despite derby heroics

Rooney Questions Eze Impact as Arsenal Title Push Continues

There was thunder in north London and not only from the scoreline. Arsenal dismantled Tottenham 4-1 for the second time this season, reaffirming their superiority in the derby and restoring a five point lead over Manchester City in the title race. Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze each struck twice, the latter again tormenting a club that once courted him.

Yet amid the celebration, Wayne Rooney delivered a more measured verdict on Eze’s season. Speaking on his BBC podcast, Rooney offered praise but also pointed critique of Arsenal’s £67.5m summer signing. The comments have cut through the euphoria and reopened debate about Eze’s broader contribution.

Photo IMAGO

Rooney Appraisal of Eze Form

Rooney did not shy away. “I disagree a bit because I don’t think he’s been good enough this season.

“The two Tottenham games have shined a big light on him but in other games I’ve watched him and not thought he’s been good enough.

Photo IMAGO

“I think a lot of that is probably through not playing consistently, I get that, but when you talk about mentality and character, if I was him I would be trying to make it very difficult for the manager to leave me out, both with your performances and in training.

“Clearly he’s not doing enough to warrant a place in the team consistently. I get that Martin Odegaard is the captain but you’ve got to make it almost impossible for Mikel Arteta to leave you out.

“After the first Tottenham game I don’t think he did enough to stay in the team so you just hope now for him he plays better consistently to stay in the game.

“I think he needs to perform a little bit better than he has so far this season.”

It is a pointed assessment. Eze has produced his finest displays against Tottenham, five of his six league goals coming against Spurs. In other fixtures, the impact has fluctuated. He was withdrawn at half time in the 1-1 draw with Brentford and then started on the bench in the 2-2 stalemate with Wolves. For a player expected to add incision in tight contests, those moments matter.

Photo IMAGO

Arsenal Context in Title Race

Arsenal’s title charge remains compelling. Mikel Arteta’s side showed authority and purpose against a Tottenham team in turmoil after Thomas Frank’s departure. Rooney was unsparing in his verdict on Spurs.

“It was a good game, Arsenal obviously showed their class and Tottenham are just not a good team.

“I just don’t think they’re a good team. If you go through their players and the squad, they’re probably where they should be.

“Obviously they’re a big club with a nice, new stadium but I just don’t think the players are good enough to compete at the top end of the Premier League.

“I think Spurs will just be fine, I don’t think they’ll get relegated, but they’re down there right now and they were in a similar situation last season.

“It’s a big worry for them, a big concern for the club whether or not they stay in the Premier League because they’ve gone backwards.”

Arsenal’s superiority was emphatic. The 4-1 margin underlined their depth and direction. Yet Rooney’s remarks about Eze carry weight because they speak to consistency, the currency of champions.

World Cup Implications for Eze

Rooney also questioned Eze’s international prospects.

“I’m not sure Eze will go to the World Cup but he does give you a different option because he can play on the left or in the No. 10.

“Maybe that will be on Eze’s side because those players are so important at a World Cup. In terms of at Arsenal I think Eze is better in the penalty box but Odegaard is better when he’s a bit deeper.

Photo IMAGO

“He’s very clever and picks up some great positions, his movement is very good, you just want to see a bit more from him in the final third.

“If you could combine the two of them you’d have a great player!”

For Arsenal, the challenge is balance. Eze brings unpredictability and instinct in the penalty area. Odegaard provides orchestration. Arteta must extract both without compromising structure.

As the season narrows towards its decisive weeks, Arsenal will welcome Chelsea next. Tottenham travel to Fulham searching for reassurance. Rooney’s comments have sharpened scrutiny on Eze, but they also highlight the standards Arsenal now inhabit. In a title race defined by fine margins, good may not suffice. Excellence must be habitual.

Benfica: Gianluca Prestianni ready to file a complaint against Vinicius Jr

Benfica: Gianluca Prestianni ready to file a complaint against Vinicius Jr
Benfica: Gianluca Prestianni ready to file a complaint against Vinicius Jr

Suspended by UEFA, Gianluca Prestianni will file a complaint against Vinicius Jr

Benfica: Gianluca Prestianni ready to file a complaint against Vinicius Jr

This Monday, Gianluca Prestianni was sanctioned by UEFA for making racist remarks against Vinicius Jr during the first-leg play-off between Benfica and Real Madrid last Tuesday (0-1). The Argentine plans to file a complaint against the Brazilian.

Real Madrid will host Benfica next Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu for the second leg of the Champions League play-off. They hold a favorable advantage after their away win in Lisbon (0-1). The clash has already ignited the media in recent days following the Vinicius Jr-Gianluca Prestianni incident. Prestianni stands accused of repeatedly calling the Brazilian a "monkey". However, the Argentine—whose shirt covered his mouth—strongly denies these allegations.

On Monday, UEFA provisionally suspended the Benfica player for one match. As a result, he will not play on Wednesday in the Spanish capital, pending confirmation of this decision. In response, Benfica announced its intention to appeal. For his part, Prestianni has not yet commented.

However, according to El Chiringuito, the young player does not intend to stop there. He plans to file a complaint against Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr with UEFA, FIFA, and the Portuguese judicial authorities. He maintains that the accusations are false and that his reputation has been unfairly damaged.

Report: Bundesliga giants fear Liverpool have agreement with target

Report: Bundesliga giants fear Liverpool have agreement with target
Report: Bundesliga giants fear Liverpool have agreement with target

Liverpool reportedly reach agreement to sign 19-year-old forward

Liverpool continue to be strongly linked with highly rated winger Yan Diomande ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window, with growing belief across Europe that a move to Anfield is being seriously discussed. The 19-year-old Ivory Coast international has emerged as one of the most talked about young attackers in the Bundesliga since joining RB Leipzig from Leganes in 2025.

Under Arne Slot, who guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in 2024-25, recruitment planning remains focused on long term attacking depth. Diomande is viewed internally as a potential future successor to Mohamed Salah, reflecting Liverpool’s strategy of targeting players who can develop into elite performers. Sources indicate Leipzig would demand around €100 million for the winger, a valuation that highlights his rapid rise.

Photo: IMAGO

Bayern Munich stance on potential deal

Bayern Munich are also monitoring Yan Diomande, although reports suggest the German champions believe Liverpool may already hold a personal agreement with the player. That interpretation has emerged from discussions inside Bayern, where executives are analysing several attacking options before the window opens.

According to claims circulating on social media, Bayern’s hierarchy see Liverpool as the Premier League club most advanced in talks, although this remains an internal assessment rather than confirmed information. The situation has added intrigue to a transfer race that could shape the attacking plans of both clubs.

Cody Gakpo angle creates fresh intrigue

Alongside interest in Diomande, Bayern Munich are exploring alternatives on the left wing, including Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. A post shared on X at 7:22pm on February 21, 2026 stated:

“Internally at Bayern there is growing discussion, as I exclusively revealed weeks ago following Yan Diomande’s rejection, about pivoting toward Cody Gakpo as the alternative on the left wing, with influential voices inside the club convinced he would thrive in the Bundesliga’s open transitional spaces in a similar way to Luis Díaz.

“And what has added a new layer of tension in recent days are fresh indications, including signals interpreted from contacts around Gakpo’s representatives, that have led some board members to increasingly believe the Premier League club holding a personal agreement with Diomande could in fact be Liverpool, although this remains an internal reading of the situation rather than confirmed information and is still being handled with caution at executive level.

‘The ironic twist is that Bayern could end up indirectly financing that very move by paying up to £65 million, around €75 million, to sign Cody Gakpo from Liverpool, effectively funding the transfer of the player who rejected them in the first place.

“A scenario that underlines how quickly leverage can shift at the top of the market, even if inside Säbener Straße there are figures insisting they would ultimately be comfortable with such an outcome provided the investment guarantees immediate quality and decisive output on the pitch.’”

Transfer outlook ahead of summer window

As things stand, Liverpool appear well positioned in the race for Yan Diomande, although no formal agreement has been publicly confirmed. Bayern Munich’s parallel interest in both Diomande and Gakpo adds a layer of complexity that could influence negotiations in the months ahead.

For Liverpool, the pursuit aligns with Slot’s evolving squad vision, balancing immediate competitiveness with future planning. For Bayern Munich, strategic flexibility remains key as they assess whether to compete directly for Diomande or pursue alternative solutions in attack.

PREVIEW | Watford vs Ipswich Town - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | Watford vs Ipswich Town - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | Watford vs Ipswich Town - team news, lineups, predictions

Watford and Ipswich Town clash this Tuesday at the Vicarage Road on Match Day 34 of the EFL Championship.

Watford currently have 48 points and lie in 9th position. In their last match, Edward Still's team prevailed 2-0 against Derby County (EFL Championship 2025/26).

Ipswich Town have picked up 54 points and currently lie in 4th position. In their last fixture, Kieran McKenna's team suffered a 5-3 reverse against Wrexham (EFL Championship 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended in a 1-1 draw.

Predicted lineups

Watford: Egil Selvik, Jeremy Ngakia, James Abankwah, Saba Goglichidze, Stephen Mfuni, Edo Kayembe, Nampalys Mendy, Nestory Irankunda, Imran Louza, Giorgi Chakvetadze, Luca Kjerrumgaard

Ipswich Town: Christian Walton, Leif Davis, Cedric Kipré, Dara O’Shea, Darnell Furlong, Jack Taylor, Azor Matusiwa, Jack Clarke, Anis Mehmeti, Wes Burns, Ivan Azón

Unavailable

Watford

Ipswich Town

  • Conor Townsend - Cruciate Ligament Tear

Last starting XIs

Watford ( vs Derby County 2026-02-21): Egil Selvik, Jeremy Ngakia, James Abankwah, Saba Goglichidze, Stephen Mfuni, Imran Louza, Nampalys Mendy, Nestory Irankunda, Edo Kayembe, Othmane Maamma, Luca Kjerrumgaard

Ipswich Town ( vs Wrexham 2026-02-21): Christian Walton, Darnell Furlong, Dara O’Shea, Cedric Kipré, Leif Davis, Jack Taylor, Azor Matusiwa, Wes Burns, Anis Mehmeti, Jack Clarke, Ivan Azón

Arizona not waiting to get healthy in race towards Big 12 title

HOUSTON — The logic was easy to figure, but Jaden Bradley wasn’t buying it.

Because the Arizona Wildcats built their 23-0 start with a rotation that was injury-free, then lost two games in a row when it wasn't, their most likely path to winning the Big 12 didn’t appear to include a 73-66 win at second-ranked Houston on Saturday.

Or any win against Houston.

More likely, it was to just get past that game and make sure to beat everyone else on the schedule: Baylor on Tuesday, Kansas and Iowa State at home after that, and Colorado in an away game to finish the regular season.

After all, even in the high-elevation environment of that March 7 game against the Buffaloes, the Wildcats might be able to breathe easier.

By then or before then, they could have Koa Peat back from a lower leg injury that has bothered him since Feb. 7 and kept him out for UA's past two games; they could have Dwayne Aristode back from an undisclosed illness, and they could have Brayden Burries back at full strength after a bug of his own.

After all, UA coach Tommy Lloyd told the Star on Saturday that he expected to get Peat back “sooner rather than later,” was hoping Aristode “is close,” and that Burries was “gonna turn the corner soon.”

In other words, the Wildcats could have just hung on until better times come around. But they didn’t wait.

Now, at 25-2 overall and 12-2 in the Big 12, Arizona is alone in first place with four games to go.

Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) dribbles against Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) in the first half at Fertitta Center in Houston, on Feb. 21, 2026.

“Our job as players is always to try to go out there and win, no matter what,” Bradley said. “We did a great job. We’ve got to tighten up on our free throws and all that other stuff, but we did a great job.”

It is true that the Wildcats hit only 64.5% of their free throws Saturday, with Bradley uncharacteristically missing 5 of 10 — including 1 of 2 when the Wildcats were trying to put the game away in the final seconds.

There were other problems, too. UA hit only 3 of 12 from 3-point range, and while the Wildcats can usually shrug off that sort of thing by drilling teams in the paint, the inside wasn’t working out as usual Saturday.

Houston threw double-teams whenever the Wildcats sent the ball inside, with post players Tobe Awaka (3 of 5) and Motiejus Krivas (2 of 4) combining to take just nine shots. Moreover, Peat’s presence on the bench Saturday drastically altered the Wildcats' post rotation.

Instead of having three guys for two post spots, the way they had run it nearly all season, they had only two: Krivas and Awaka, as much as possible, with wing Ivan Kharchenkov moving over as needed.

“You take a guy like Koa out of the equation, a guy who is so important, and you start playing guys a little bit more, and maybe with lineups you haven't played as much,” Lloyd said. With Peat available, “when a guy gets a foul you have the luxury of sitting him for a stretch to make sure he doesn't get a second.

“Now you’re having to bring guys back a little bit quicker. And in a physical game like this — it’s like calling offensive holding in the NFL, you probably could pick a rebounding foul on either team every possession — you just have to dodge some bullets.”

They didn’t really even do that, with both Krivas and Awaka fouling out, having totaled just 11 points and 42 minutes between them.

Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) grabs a defensive rebound against the Houston Cougars in the second half at Fertitta Center in Houston, on Feb. 21, 2026.

But the Wildcats made up for it by getting Kharchenkov and Anthony Dell’Orso to aggressively drive in gaps whenever they appeared, and by turning the ball over just five times.

Kharchenkov, playing both forward spots, collected 16 points and nine rebounds.

“Arizona has great size but their best team tonight was when Kharchenkov was at the four,” Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said. “I didn't think their bigs impacted the game as much as I thought” they would.

Dell’Orso scored 22 points for the second straight game, making 6 of 9 shots from inside the arc, and Lloyd said the Aussie wing had some “spitfire” in him.

“I don't know how many of you guys know Aussies, but Aussies got some you-know-what to them, and he has a little bit” of that, said Lloyd, who spent a year playing and coaching in Australia early in his career. “It wasn't going his way for a good stretch there a while back, and he hung with it. Our guys hung with him, and the staff hung with him."

While Dell'Orso led the Wildcats offensively, Kharchenkov led a defense that held Houston to just 35.7% shooting and kept the Cougars’ top 3-point threat, Emanuel Sharp, to 2 of 8 shooting from 3-point range — and 0 for 3 from inside the arc.

Also worth noting: That Kharchenkov played 39 minutes.

He had no choice. At least for now, the Wildcats aren’t built quite the same way they were during their 23-0 start, and Kharchenkov is a focal point of that change, expanding his game on both ends of the floor.

“We knew Houston is a tough matchup for us, especially we were banged up a little bit, and the two losses just didn't taste right in the mouth,” Kharchenkov said. “So we just figured it out. Fought, and figured it out.”

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona not waiting to get healthy in race towards Big 12 title

USA Olympic hockey win was gold medal moment free of division | Letter

Team USA captain Auston Matthews celebrates with teammates after winning the men's hockey gold medal game.

Hopefully, most Americans watch the U.S. men's and women's hockey teams win gold medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Watching their joy and commitment to their sport and teammates was wonderful.

More: Johnny Gaudreau jersey, family on the ice for Team USA gold medal celebration

When our national anthem was played, singing, honor and respect were off the charts. There was no kneeling, alternative anthems, protest shirts/jerseys, or controversies. There was just patriotism and respect for the flag and what they had accomplished as Americans.

Andrew Egloff, Montgomery

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: USA Olympic hockey gold medals delivered pride without politics

Michigan football&#39;s Jason Beck is the most consequential hire in CFB

USA TODAY Sports' Blake Toppmeyer put out a list of eight offseason coordinator hires he can't stop thinking about. But in the process, he missed a pretty significant hire -- new Michigan football offensive coordinator Jason Beck.

Toppmeyer's list included a bunch of big names, mostly -- well-established coaches who are renowned in college football. But with that, he's only really thinking above the surface rather than below. With names like Chip Kelly, Bobby Petrino, Charlie Weis Jr., Will Muschamp, Gary Patterson, Buster Faulkner, Chad Morris, and Jim Knowles, most (but not all) are hot commodities, faces that have been recognizable in the sport for some time. It stands to reason that those are the names he would be thinking about, given that five of his eight are former head coaches, and two others have been among those considered the best at their craft.

But what Toppmeyer doesn't realize, or hasn't considered, is that Beck equals a perfect mix between results and opportunity.

Beck inherits a talented Michigan offensive squad that hasn't exactly put up big numbers just yet. With Bryce Underwood at quarterback, Andrew Marsh, Jaime Ffrench, and JJ Buchanan at wide receiver, Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter at running back, and an emerging offensive line, there are a ton of playmakers across the offense. And Beck has shown that he can do a lot more with a lot less.

At Utah last season, Beck coordinated the No. 4 offense and No. 2 rushing attack. At New Mexico the year before, Beck coordinated the No. 4 offense and No. 2 rushing attack. His scheme is explosive in the run game, and he inherits a much more talented corps to allow him to deploy his scheme. What's more, though Devon Dampier proved himself to be a worthy signal caller and dual-threat option, Underwood's floor and ceiling are both higher. Coming off his first year in college football, Beck has an opportunity to deploy Underwood in a way that more so utilizes his talent.

Sure, the other names are flashy, capable, and are at big programs. But Beck very well may be the most consequential offseason hire if everything goes to plan.

Michigan intends to run a base 11 personnel (one running back, one tight end, three wide receivers), which will vary from the more traditional pro-style 21 and 12 personnel sets that the Wolverines have run for the bulk of the past decade. Sure, it won't be the sole formation, and the Wolverines have the capability of changing things up, but that adds to the mystique rather than detracts. Beck has nearly everything he needs at his disposal to be able to take advantage of opposing defenses and create mismatches. And given that he's managed to turn both New Mexico and Utah into elite offenses -- and neither destination is particularly known for their prowess offensively -- it shows that he's more than capable at building.

Beck is no household name, it's true. But if he had achieved what he had at other schools, he would have been the most sought-after coordinator in the country on the offensive side of the ball. Before he took over Utah, the Utes had the No. 102 offense and vaulted into the top five. New Mexico was 65th and vaulted to No. 4 all the same. Yes, he's only entering his fourth year in college football, yet a long track record is not needed to prove his mettle.

If you require more of a vote of confidence, look no further than Michigan running backs coach Tony Alford, who has decades of experience in and around the sport. And last week, he shared his awe about what Beck brings to the table.

"Yeah, it’s wild because the way they call it, I’ve never seen it," Alford said. "I’m like, wait a minute, what are you doing here, right? But the more I’ve studied it in constant conversation with the staff, I love it. The way it pieces together, I think it’s very user-friendly to learn, especially that it allows young players to get up and play fast.

"I think it’s a dynamic offense because we’ve got enough playmakers here that you can put guys in spots and match up issues, and it’s very easily adjusted where multiple guys are going to touch the ball and have the ability to touch the ball. I think, Bryce Underwood, I think with his skill set. So I think this leads to all the different weapons that we have; we can use them, and they’re at our disposal in a lot of different ways. Just how creative can we be in order to get those guys open in space. So it’s going to be fun."

Toppmeyer may not have forgotten about Beck, but rather didn't include him. Or he wasn't considered because he wasn't a sexy, flashy name on par with those he did mention. Given what he brings to the table, that's a mistake. Because it's more likely than not that Michigan doesn't languish in the middle of the pack (No. 69 last year, offensively) and is, instead, among the nation's top offenses. Because even in a short period of time, Beck has proven that's just what he does.

This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Michigan football: Jason Beck is the most consequential OC hire

Rockets blow another big fourth-quarter lead in loss to Knicks

Another game, another epic fourth-quarter collapse.

In Houston's 108-106 loss to the Knicks on Saturday, the Rockets blew an 18-point lead in the final frame. It was the latest example of how Houston has struggled to close out games, a weakness that has prevented the Rockets from fully reaching contender status this season, on top of season-ending injuries to Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams.

It was Houston's 11th blown fourth-quarter lead of the season under head coach Ime Udoka. Since Udoka was first hired by the Rockets in April 2023, Houston has now blown 37 fourth-quarter leads. With the Rockets struggling to protect their fourth-quarter leads, it could prevent Houston from making a deep playoff run.

Blown leads under Udoka

Udoka: "Ball stopped moving, started isolating too much. Same story — we've lost too many games like this. I'm telling Amen and Reed to be more demonstrative and get us into our sets, it's not time to freestyle. Turnovers hurt, but bad offense is just as bad." https://t.co/7PA94u8eZj

— Kelly Iko (@KellyIko) February 22, 2026

When asked about his team's latest collapse, Udoka attributed it to the Rockets "isolating too much" because the "ball stopped moving," per NBA insider Kelly Iko. Houston's head coach also said that he wants Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard to be "more demonstrative getting into" its offensive sets.

While the Rockets certainly struggled on offense down the stretch, Udoka has a proven track record of failing to close out games as a head coach. In his first year as a head coach, Udoka took the Celtics to the NBA Finals, but they struggled with offensive consistency. The Celtics blew 18 fourth-quarter leads under Udoka, with Boston's late-game offense leaving much to be desired.

Now in his third year with the Rockets, the late-game offense under Udoka is still an issue. After blowing 26 fourth-quarter leads in Udoka's first two seasons, Houston's latest collapse against the Knicks is the latest example that the Rockets haven't made any progress in that area.

Houston's 11 blown leads this season are tied for the 10th most in the NBA, with the Rockets comfortably leading for the majority of those losses. On Dec. 18, Houston led by as many as 25 points in the third quarter and 17 in the fourth quarter of its eventual overtime loss to the Pelicans, which were 6-22 at the time. That loss remains the biggest blown lead in the NBA this season.

There's no doubting Udoka's reputation as a floor-raiser, but considering Houston's expectations this season, the Rockets have underperformed. It's not all on their head coach, but Houston's consistent inability to protect its leads on top of its current injury problems could easily doom the Rockets to an early exit in the playoffs, where the smallest margins matter.

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets blow 11th fourth-quarter lead of season in loss to Knicks

Who hits the most dingers for the 2026 Cincinnati Reds?

Sep 17, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz (44, left), Cincinnati Reds first baseman Spencer Steer (7, center), and Cincinnati Reds third baseman Sal Stewart (43) walk back to the dugout after Steer hit a three-rin home run in the fourth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Vizer-Imagn Images | Tim Vizer-Imagn Images

Back in the go-go dinger days of 2019, Eugenio Suárez socked nearly as many home runs (49) as he blew gum bubbles, a number he matched in a 2025 season split between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners.

So, if you ponder the question of who leads the 2026 Reds in dingers, it’s easy to simply point at Geno.

Is it really that simple, though?

Geno’s now 34 years old, and he’ll hit 35 in July of this year. On top of that, sandwiched in between his seasons with 49 bombs are single-season totals of 31, 31, 22, and 30, so it’s not as if he’s reached those lofty numbers each and every season.

Yes, he’s now calling Great American Ball Park home after spending far too much time in Seattle, where right-handed power hitting goes to die. Yes, he’s on a one-year ‘prove it’ contract for 2026 after nobody presumably offered him a long-term deal of enough value for him and his agent, and that may prompt him to go nuts again offensively in a contract year.

But is it really too outlandish to suggest that maybe, just maybe, someone else on this team finishes 2026 with more homers than Suárez? Someone like, say, Elly De La Cruz?

If Geno ‘slips’ back to only hitting ~30 homers in 2026, is it out of the question that a healthily-shouldered Spencer Steer could flirt with 30 after topping 20 in each of the last trio of seasons?

JJ Bleday once swatted 20 homers for the Oakland A’s! Noelvi Marte’s power has long been hyped as potentially plus…could 2026 be the year he finally puts it all together?

Lest we forget Sal Stewart, who led the 2025 Reds in homers after his call-up in September. He’s one of the most advanced hitters the Reds have seen as a rookie in a generation, and scouts have long said his raw power was ahead of his in-game power…at least until it showed up in-game at the end of last season. Might he step right in to the Cincinnati lineup on Opening Day and become the thumper this lineup has missed for years?

Who do you think leads this club in dingers in ‘26?

Big Ten Bracketology, Week 16: Wacky West Coast

Iowa head coach Ben McCollum celebrates after Iowa fans stormed the court following the Hawkeyes win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers 57-52 Feb. 17, 2026 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa. | Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The NCAA Tournament Selection Committee’s top 16 reveal shook up a few of the projected seeding decisions from prior weeks, although most teams largely remained in the same ballpark. No team in particular stole the show in the B1G this week, but there were buzzer-beaters, big upsets, and more in seemingly every West Coast game, creating a hectic late-February week.

Michigan – No. 1 Seed (No. 2 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 1 Seed (No. 1 overall)

The Wolverines had a very tough schedule this week, taking on both No. 7 Purdue and No. 3 Duke away from home. Michigan was able to go into Mackey Arena and win 91-80 to move to 15-1 in conference play. The Wolverines couldn’t cap off a 2-0 week, falling 68-63 to Duke in Washington, D.C., shortly after being named as the No. 1 overall seed. Ironically, Michigan’s resume is still better than Duke’s (the Wolverines rank first in NET, KenPom, WAB, T-Rank, SOR, and KPI, and only trail the Blue Devils in BPI rankings). But Duke’s head-to-head win still gives the Blue Devils the inside track to the No. 1 overall seed moving forward.

Illinois – No. 2 Seed (No. 7 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 2 Seed (No. 8 overall)

The Fighting Illini’s explosive offense traveled with them across the country to the West Coast, but the defense only held up in one of the two games against USC and UCLA. Illinois destroyed USC 101-65 to open up the week, but couldn’t make it a 2-0 trip to the West Coast as it fell 95-94 in overtime to UCLA. The loss didn’t affect Illinois from a bracketology perspective at all, as many of the teams ahead of the Illini lost at some point this week as well, and a one-point overtime road loss in a Quad 1 game has little to no impact on metrics this late in the season.

Purdue – No. 2 Seed (No. 8 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 2 Seed (No. 7 overall)

Purdue lost 91-80 to Michigan at home to open the week. The Boilermakers couldn’t defend Michigan’s shooting from beyond the three-point line, and that resulted in their third loss at Mackey Arena this season, something that hasn’t happened since Purdue went 11-5 at home in the 2019-20 season. The Boilermakers took their anger out on in-state rival Indiana later in the week, destroying the Hoosiers 93-64 at home. Purdue appeared in the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee’s top 16 reveal as the No. 8 overall seed (a No. 2 seed), and that projection held over the rest of the weekend. 

With the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee revealing its top 16 overall teams today, I decided to compare what the Committee has to the top 16 from my last bracketology update (yesterday morning). Here's the comparison: pic.twitter.com/1RQnFyjMiI

— Patrick Winograd (@PatrickWinograd) February 21, 2026

Nebraska – No. 3 Seed (No. 10 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 3 Seed (No. 10 overall)

The Cornhuskers were completely stymied on the road against Iowa on Tuesday, scoring a season-low 52 points in a 57-52 loss in Iowa City. Nebraska quickly rebounded by demolishing Penn State 87-64 at home behind Pryce Sandfort’s career-high 33-point scoring output. Despite the loss to Iowa, the Cornhuskers still appeared in the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee’s top 16 reveal as a No. 3 seed (No. 11 overall), albeit with minimal separation from the No. 4 seeds and not too many opportunities to significantly improve their resume going forward.

Michigan State – No. 4 Seed (No. 14 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 4 Seed (No. 15 overall)

The Spartans had lost three of their last four games heading into the week, presenting them with two important opportunities to get back on track at home. Michigan State was able to capitalize on those opportunities by getting two wins on the board. The Spartans comfortably beat UCLA 82-59 before mounting a small second-half comeback to defeat Ohio State 66-60 over the weekend. Michigan State will now prepare for a big clash against Purdue on the road, where a win could give the Spartans a bump to the No. 2 seed line. For now, the Selection Committee had Michigan State as a No. 4 seed, and that projection remains accurate.

Wisconsin – No. 7 Seed (No. 28 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 8 Seed (No. 29 overall)

The Badgers continued to live and die by the three throughout the week, and it resulted in two very different games. Wisconsin shot just 7-for-26 (27%) from three in a 17-point loss to Ohio State, but shot 10-for-24 (42%) from three in a 13-point win against Iowa. It’s clear what the Badgers’ gameplan is, although Wisconsin has been executing at a very high level in recent weeks. The Badgers continue to loom as a dangerous No. 7 or 8 seed. Wisconsin will face both Oregon and Washington on the road this week in two must-win games.

Iowa – No. 8 Seed (No. 30 overall)

Previous seeding: No. 9 Seed (No. 33 overall)

The Hawkeyes faced two ranked opponents this week, and in those two big opportunities, Iowa was able to come out with one win. The Hawkeyes beat Nebraska 57-52 at home, giving them just their second Quad 1A win of the season. Iowa wasn’t as successful on the road, though, falling 84-71 to Wisconsin. All things considered, a 1-1 week against that schedule is a very good result, although the Hawkeyes will have to wait until March for their next two ranked opponents (Michigan and a rematch with Nebraska on the road). Iowa needs to win both games against Ohio State and Penn State this week to try to get back onto the No. 7 seed line.

COURT STORM IN IOWA CITY 😱 @IowaHoops pull off a huge win against No. 9 Nebraska pic.twitter.com/Gx2TU07BG1

— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) February 18, 2026

Indiana – No. 10 Seed (No. 39 overall, Last Four Byes)

Previous seeding: No. 10 Seed (No. 38 overall, Last Four Byes)

The Hoosiers had a big opportunity to improve their resume this weekend as they took on arch-rival Purdue. Unfortunately, going to Mackey Arena immediately following a home loss is a very tall task, and one that Indiana was unable to handle. The Hoosiers were completely outmatched, falling 93-64 at the hands of the Boilermakers. Indiana will now start a stretch of three straight home games, and it’s essential that the Hoosiers win at least two of the three games to stay comfortable in the NCAA Tournament picture.

UCLA – No. 10 Seed (No. 41 overall, Last Four Byes)

Previous seeding: No. 10 Seed (No. 41 overall, Last Four Byes)

At this point, everyone in the college basketball world heard about UCLA in the context of what Mick Cronin said after playing against Michigan State, but let’s not lose sight of the fact that the Bruins are squarely on the bubble and the results of their games still matter a ton. UCLA’s 82-59 loss was a disappointing setback for its tournament hopes, but the Bruins found a way to bounce back at home. UCLA’s 95-94 overtime upset of Illinois, capped off by Donovan Dent’s buzzer-beater layup, put the Bruins back on the right side of the bubble after falling just on the outside of the tournament picture following the loss to the Spartans.

DONOVAN DENT!!

UCLA BEATS #10 ILLINOIS AT THE BUZZER pic.twitter.com/n09MMdCfit

— NCAA Buzzer Beaters & Game Winners (@NCAABuzzerBters) February 22, 2026

Ohio State – No. 11 Seed (No. 45 overall, Last Four In)

Previous seeding: First Four Out

Ohio State has clearly been playing better since losing to Michigan by 21 at home a few weeks back, but the stretch of seemingly improved play has only resulted in a 2-2 record. This week, the Buckeyes easily dispatched the Badgers, beating Wisconsin 86-69 at home. The Badgers are just on the wrong side of the NET top 30, however, so that still left Ohio State without a Quad 1 win. The Buckeyes had one more chance to change that stat over the weekend, but squandered a 26-23 lead at the half, eventually losing 66-60 to Michigan State on the road.

USC – First Four Out

Previous seeding: No. 11 Seed (No. 42 overall, Last Four In)

The Trojans were in a solid position within the NCAA Tournament bubble heading into the week, but USC tumbled out of the projected field with a 0-2 week at home. The Trojans suffered an embarrassing 101-65 loss to Illinois, and things only got worse from there when they fell 71-70 to Oregon at home. While the margin of the first loss was a bad omen, the second loss of the week was USC’s second Quad 3 loss of the season – something that bubble teams can ill-afford to have on their resume.

Washington – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Huskies just haven’t done themselves any favors this season. While the ridiculously tough schedule to open conference play certainly hindered Washington from gaining momentum, the second half of the season has featured a bunch of losses in very winnable games. This week was no different, as the Huskies fell 64-60 to Maryland, dipping below a .500 overall record this season in the process.

Minnesota – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Golden Gophers inched closer to the .500 mark for the season with two wins against teams at the bottom of the conference standings. Minnesota beat Oregon 61-44 on the road, then returned home and secured an 80-61 win against Rutgers. The Golden Gophers will look to play spoiler twice this week in games against Michigan and UCLA.

Northwestern – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Wildcats had one game this week, and they were able to play well enough to secure a 78-74 victory against Maryland, powered by Nick Martinelli’s 29-point game. Northwestern will move on to face Indiana on the road tomorrow and will return home to play Oregon this weekend.

Nick Martinelli, the Big Ten's leading scorer 🤌

29 points
3 assists pic.twitter.com/y9MT2QxMlk

— Northwestern Basketball (@NUMensBball) February 19, 2026

Oregon – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Ducks might have had the weirdest week of any team in the conference. Against Minnesota, Oregon shot 2-for-20 from the three-point line and scored just 44 total points in a 17-point loss. The Ducks completely flipped a switch over the weekend, utilizing a 7-0 run to seal a comeback victory against USC after trailing 70-64. Oregon will have another opportunity to play spoiler this week when it takes on Wisconsin at home. 

Penn State – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Nittany Lions were on the wrong side of two blowouts this week. Penn State fell 85-72 to Rutgers at home in a somewhat surprising loss before going on the road to take on Nebraska. The Nittany Lions couldn’t keep that game within striking distance, losing 87-64 to the Cornhuskers. Penn State will have most of the week off before facing Iowa at home this weekend.

Maryland – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Terrapins have started to play much better basketball in February, and that trend continued this week. Maryland lost 78-74 to Northwestern on the road, but Andre Mills’ 39-point outing was another bright spot for the Terrapins despite the loss. The ‘Terps rebounded over the weekend by defeating Washington 64-60 at home.

Rutgers – Out

Previous seeding: Out

The Scarlet Knights had a topsy-turvy week. Rutgers secured an 85-72 victory against Penn State on the road in its mid-week game, but then fell 80-61 on the road against Minnesota over the weekend. The Scarlet Knights will return home to face Washington before taking on Maryland on the road.

Ilia Malinin Backflips in $1,100 Balmain Jeans During Tear-Jerking Figure Skating Program at Olympic Gala

Ilia Malinin of Team USA performs during a Figure Skating Exhibition Gala on Feb. 21, 2026. Jamie Squire/Getty
Ilia Malinin of Team USA performs during a Figure Skating Exhibition Gala on Feb. 21, 2026.

Jamie Squire/Getty

NEED TO KNOW

  • Ilia Malinin made a fashion statement during his Olympic gala performance on Feb. 21
  • The 21-year-old Team USA figure skater wore designer denim for his triumphant return to the ice
  • His performance highlighted mental health awareness one week after his hopes of an individual gold medal fell short

Ilia Malinin defies gravity... and the limitations of denim!

Famously nicknamed the "Quad God," Malinin rocked a not-so-casual outfit despite what it might look like in his breathtaking return to the Olympic ice at the annual figure skating exhibition gala on Saturday, Feb. 21.

Malinin performed his signature quadruple axils and impressive flip on skates all while wearing $1,100 distressed Balmain black jeans paired with a gray oversized NF “Fear” hoodie, a nod to the song he chose for his memorable, emotionally-charged run.

Ilia Malinin performs during the 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating exhibition gala. Foto Olimpik/NurPhoto via Getty
Ilia Malinin performs during the 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating exhibition gala.

Foto Olimpik/NurPhoto via Getty

The 21-year-old professional figure skater, who clearly blurred the line between sports and runway, delivered a powerful performance that placed emphasis on mental health awareness, previously sharing a statement about mental health with his routine.

The professional figure delivered a powerful performance set to "Fear" by NF, which he'd previously teased would be focused on mental health, one week after his hopes of an individual gold medal fell short.

Malinin said after his disappointing final skate on Feb. 13 that he’d been overcome with “negative thoughts” just before beginning his ice routine, which had made it hard for him to focus and ultimately landed him an eighth-place finish.

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Ilia Malinin of Team USA wows with a backflip in designer denim at the Olympic skating exhibition gala on Feb. 21, 2026. Steve Christo/Getty
Ilia Malinin of Team USA wows with a backflip in designer denim at the Olympic skating exhibition gala on Feb. 21, 2026.

Steve Christo/Getty

During his gala program, the athlete started by symbolically batting away the pings and comments in his music, which represented the negative impact of social media on his mental health. He appeared overcome with emotion afterwards as he soaked in the roaring applause of the crowd.

Malinin previously teased what fans could expect from his performance in an Instagram post on Monday, Feb. 16. "On the world’s biggest stage, those who appear the strongest may still be fighting invisible battles on the inside,” he begin in his caption.

"Even the happiest memories can end up tainted by the noise," he continued to write. "Vile online hatred attacks the mind and fear lures it into the darkness, no matter how hard you try to stay sane through the endless insurmountable pressure."

Related: https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Ellie Kam, Danny O'Shea, Madison Chock, Evan Bates, Alysa Liu, Ilia Malinin and Amber Glenn of Team United States perform in the Team Event routine during a Figure Skating Exhibition Gala at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Maja Hitij/Getty
Ellie Kam, Danny O'Shea, Madison Chock, Evan Bates, Alysa Liu, Ilia Malinin and Amber Glenn of Team United States perform in the Team Event routine during a Figure Skating Exhibition Gala at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Maja Hitij/Getty

The gala is a post-competition tradition that features appearances by the athletes in all three completed figure skating events. Malinin, Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn, Madison Chock and Evan Bates, Ellie Kam and Danny O'Shea, Mikhail Shaidorov and Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry all skated.

No judges are involved, nor are medals at stake — simple creativity and fun are encouraged in the programs. Malinin and his teammates also performed a group program together earlier in the night.

Malinin told PEOPLE a few days prior to the gala that he was leaving his Olympic experience with newfound wisdom, having gained more in defeat.

"I think honestly, you learn more from losing than you do winning, so I think I'm definitely gonna be able to learn a lot from this so I can come back better and stronger and really just know what I was up against," he said.

"It's one thing to experience the Olympics for the first time," he continued, "But it's another to go again and know what's gonna happen and really know how to prepare yourself better."

Read the original article on People

Malik Willis ranked as top free agent available

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 27: Malik Willis #2 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates with fans after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Lambeau Field on December 27, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s no secret that the Miami Dolphins want to move on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Multiple reports from numerous publications have stated that Miami prefers to trade their former first-round pick — with the caveat that any possible trade would be difficult due to the amount of money owed to the 27 year-old.

If — and more likely, when — the Dolphins part ways with Tagovailoa, a massive hole will open in their quarterback room. Could that hole be filled by Green Bay Packers backup signal caller, Malik Willis?

According to those in the know, new Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley would prefer Willis over other options available this offseason, as both spent time together in Green Bay over the past couple of seasons.

However, competition for Willis’ services may be stiff, as NFL.com recently ranked the former third-round pick as the most attractive free agent available this offseason for all positions.

Here’s what the author — Gregg Rosenthal — had to say about Willis’ talents in the article posted on Monday morning:

I see him as the most dynamic quarterback in football as a runner, and his tape in Green Bay showed incredible growth as a passer over his two years with Matt LaFleur. Despite his limited sample size, Willis jumped to the top spot of this ranking based on the same logic that applies to the NFL draft: If a potential franchise quarterback is good enough to be ranked in the top five of a list like this, then he should be placed first, by virtue of the position. The ceiling is the roof.

That’s high praise for the 26 year-old passer — but praise that could be shared by executives from other franchises around the league, which could cause the quarterback’s price-tag to skyrocket when it comes time to officially put pen to contract paper. With Miami short on cap space, that scenario could prove fatal to their chances of landing Willis — however, the team does have some options in regards to digging into the proverbial couch cushions.

The NFL Scouting Combine kicked off in Indianapolis, Indiana today, and as we know, plenty of rumors begin to swirl regarding trades, signings and draft selections during this time of year, so we will continue to keep our readers abreast of any rumblings concerning the Miami Dolphins as the week progresses.

Fantasy Basketball High Score Perfect Lineup for Week 17: Nikola Jokić turns in best performance since Christmas

Welcome back! It’s been a while since we last wrote on the top performers in High Score fantasy basketball. That’s because of the extended Week 17 spanning before and after the All-Star break. That gave some players the opportunity to play 5-6 games to try and reach an optimal score for your lineup.

Now, we head into the stretch run with only a few more matchups before the fantasy basketball playoffs begin (most commonly in Week 21 for Yahoo default leagues). Below we’re going over the perfect lineup for Week 17.

Week 17 High Score Perfect Lineup.
Week 17 High Score Perfect Lineup.
Taylor Wilhelm

More on the top performers

Cade Cunningham, guard: It still feels very odd that Cade isn’t getting more MVP hype this season. Sure, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has the Thunder atop the NBA standings again as we head into the final few months of the regular season. But Cunningham has the Pistons well ahead of the rest of the East, 5.5 games clear of the Boston Celtics in second place in the conference. It took a 42-point performance vs. the Knicks at The Garden to get Cade the recognition he deserves when it comes to MVP talk.

[It's not too late to create or join a High Score league, a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring]

Luka Dončić, guard: Luka has lost his MVP steam but still has a very good chance of winning the 2025-26 NBA scoring title, entering Week 18 averaging 32.8 points per game. Dončić scored 38 points with 6 rebounds and 11 assists in a three-point win over the Clippers this past weekend. He’s been dealing with a nagging hamstring injury that held him out of three games prior to the break. Luckily, Dončić was able to get in a solid outing before the end of the elongated week.

Nikola Jokić, frontcourt: The Joker is back after looking not quite himself since returning from a knee injury at the end of January. The Nuggets big man gave us a stat line we grew accustomed to seeing earlier in the season, when he was by far the best fantasy asset. He scored 35 points with 20 boards, 12 assists and 5 stocks in a losing effort to a depleted Warriors team missing Stephen Curry. Joker hadn’t reached 90+ fantasy points in High Score since Christmas.

Victor Wembanyama, frontcourt: The Spurs have ripped off eight wins in a row as they close in on OKC at the top of the Western Conference. Wemby has been elevating his ceiling when he’s aggressive on offense. But we also see what the floor looks like; he’s had a few games under 40 fantasy points over the past month or so. Wemby put on a show during All-Star Weekend, and after, scored 28 points with 15 boards, 6 dimes and 5 stocks this past weekend in a win over the Kings.

Kawhi Leonard, frontcourt: It almost feels bad that this Kawhi season is going to be wasted on this Clipper steam. Los Angeles has no choice but to make the Play-In Tournament since OKC owns the team’s first-round pick, but it would be a long-shot for the Clips to make any noise in the postseason. So instead, we’ll just enjoy this renaissance season for Leonard, who is averaging just shy of 30 points per game in February. He’s slowly climbing the rankings in High Score and could be a league-winner down the stretch.

Paolo Banchero, utility: Banchero snuck his way onto this list with 26-14-8 with 4 blocks in a loss to the Suns. He’s been one of the more erratic assets in fantasy basketball this season given his struggles scoring the rock. Some nights you get Banchero who lands in the perfect lineup, though, it took two overtimes for the forward to get in past Tyrese Maxey’s score. The Magic have a brutal schedule this week with matchups vs. the Lakers, Rockets and Pistons.

Avery Hayes recalled, Pens getting back into the flow

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 05: Avery Hayes #85 of the Pittsburgh Penguins, playing in his first NHL game, celebrates his second goal of the game against the Buffalo Sabres during a game on February 05, 2026 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

The Penguins skated a few days last week and have a few more days to get ready for the schedule to kick back up again starting Thursday for a home game against New Jersey.

There’s a new face back, Avery Hayes has returned to the NHL roster from the AHL after the break. Hayes scored six goals and added an assist in his five games back in the AHL during the break, including two hat trick games.

Forward Avery Hayes has been recalled from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL). pic.twitter.com/GvuSOSjBg9

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 23, 2026

There were some reports that the Pens were planning to bring Hayes back to the NHL even before Sidney Crosby’s injury and now the big elephant in the room will shift to the captain’s status.

Crosby won’t rejoin the team for a while longer, Team Canada was reportedly going to be flying back to Miami today (instead of the planned trip back to the NYC area, a trip scrapped due to the snowstorm impacting that part of the country).

It could be a while longer before any news comes out on that front, and as we all know NHL injury updates are typically vague and this situation seems right for a ’wait and see’ how the situation develops over the week. The Pens gave Erik Karlsson an extra day off yesterday when Rickard Rakell returned to practice. Karlsson skated again today for the first time with the team since his Olympic excursion.

Here’s how the team lined up today in their practice.

#LetsGoPens lines and D-pairs without Sidney Crosby, who has yet to rejoin the team.

A. Hayes-Rakell-Rust
Chinakhov-Novak-Malkin
Mantha-Kindel-Brazeau
Dewar-Lizotte-Acciari
(K. Hayes)

Wotherspoon-Karlsson
Kulak-Letang
Shea-Clifton
(Graves-Solovyov)

— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) February 23, 2026

This isn’t the first time this season that the Pens have experimented with Rakell at center, he worked in the middle in the preseason before Bryan Rust’s injury shifted the team need over to the wing. Interestingly, Hayes had been skating as a placeholder on that first line, this move could be starting to chart a course forward if the Pens are going to have some games without Crosby available.

Otherwise the lines have remained with familiar players in what has become normal spots down the lineup.

One other area to watch is that of Letang, as of last week he hadn’t had final clearance to come back and play from his foot fracture but acknowledged that he’s trending towards returning to the lineup on Thursday when the team picks back up. Nothing so far has gone against that outlook, which would be an encouraging sign for the blueline.

Why Seahawks might have to make tough Kenneth Walker vs. Rashid Shaheed decision

Why Seahawks might have to make tough Kenneth Walker vs. Rashid Shaheed decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Seattle Seahawks have a lot of big decisions to make this offseason. One of the biggest won't be about Jaxon Smith-Njigba or Devon Witherspoon, but a pair of free agents.

While Seattle has $61 million in cap space, with so many free agents and the massive cap hits of Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon set to hit soon, the Seahawks need to be smart with their money. That makes for some tough decisions.

And as ESPN's Bill Barnwell identified, the Seahawks toughest decision this offseason might be whether to re-sign Kenneth Walker or Rashid Shaheed, with potentially only one returning this offseason.

Seahawks face tricky Kenneth Walker vs. Rashid Shaheed decision

"He (Shaheed) and Walker might end up in the same financial ballpark," Barnwell writes, "which could create a pick-one-or-the-other scenario for GM John Schneider."

Walker and Shaheed are both hitting free agency, and with both slated to earn around $10 million per season, with Shaheed more likely to earn a bit more than Walker, the Seahawks might be in a position to only bring back one or the other.

Thanks to their needs on the defensive side of the ball, and the massive extension on the horizon for Smith-Njigba, the Seahawks need to be careful with their spending.

Re-signing Shaheed would be smart, as he's one of the best returners in the NFL. He showed that skill set in the NFC Divisional round, kicking off the Seahawks' playoff run with an opening kick-return touchdown.

MoreSeahawks get big $14.5M franchise tag update on Kenneth Walker III amid team history

Re-signing Walker would also be a smart decision, as the fan favorite running back won Super Bowl MVP and put together a remarkable playoff run after Zach Charbonnet went down.

Even though both are players the Seahawks should try to re-sign, if Barnwell is right in that only one will return, this decision will be the toughest one for the Seahawks this offseason.

Walker vs. Shaheed is not an easy question. Both bring a lot to the table, but there are reasons to move on from both as well. While the Seahawks might find a way to bring both back, Barnwell believes that John Schneider will have to choose one or the other.

More Seahawks news:

Alabama&#39;s Ty Simpson makes major decision on throwing at NFL Draft Combine

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Alabama's Ty Simpson makes major decision on throwing at NFL Draft Combine originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Ty Simpson is heading to Indianapolis this week for a crucial NFL Draft Combine.

The Alabama quarterback is viewed by most as the No. 2 QB in this draft class behind just Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, which makes this a pivotal Combine for Simpson.

Mendoza isn't throwing this week. He'll save that for his Pro Day.

Simpson? He is going to throw at the Combine, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

"(Simpson) will participate in the throwing session and do practically everything else here as far as testing other than running a 40 (yard dash)," Pelissero said. "Big opportunity for Simpson to solidify himself as a first-round draft pick."

MORE: This QB may actually be the biggest prize of free agency

Given the importance of the quarterback position, and the assumption that Mendoza will go off the board with the first overall pick, Simpson has a big chance in front of him.

If he is indeed the QB2 in this class, and if he impresses at the Combine, he genuinely could get himself into the middle of the first round.

If he struggles, though, that might make it a quarterback wasteland and force teams to consider finding passers in other ways this offseason.

Simpson will have an extra level of focus on him because he was only Alabama's starter for one season. A number of single-season starters in recent memory have struggled to make impacts in the NFL.

Clearly, Simpson has NFL-level traits. But will the lack of experience cause struggles? NFL teams will be trying to read into his Combine performance to at least get some added perspective on that.

Simpson, to his credit, won't be hiding. He's going out there on the field to try and prove himself.

More NFL news:

PREVIEW | Swansea City vs Preston North End - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | Swansea City vs Preston North End - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | Swansea City vs Preston North End - team news, lineups, predictions

Swansea City and Preston North End face each other this Tuesday at the Swansea.com Stadium for matchweek 34 of the EFL Championship.

Swansea City have won 45 points to date and are placed in 15th position. Last time out, Vítor Matos's team triumphed 1-0 against Bristol City (EFL Championship 2025/26).

Preston North End have 48 points to their name this season and occupy 10th position in the table. Last time out, Paul Heckingbottom's team slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Blackburn Rovers (EFL Championship 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Preston North End winning 2-1.

Predicted lineups

Swansea City: Lawrence Vigouroux, Ethan Galbraith, Cameron Burgess, Ben Cabango, Josh Tymon, Jay Fulton, Eom Ji-sung, Gustavo Nunes, Gonçalo Franco, Melker Widell, Zan Vipotnik

Preston North End: Dai Cornell, Andrija Vukcevic, Jordan Storey, Lewis Gibson, Andrew Hughes, Alfie Devine, Benjamin Whiteman, Ali McCann, Pol Valentín, Milutin Osmajic, Lewis Dobbin

Unavailable

Swansea City

Preston North End

  • Robbie Brady - Injury

Last starting XIs

Swansea City ( vs Bristol City 2026-02-21): Lawrence Vigouroux, Ethan Galbraith, Cameron Burgess, Ben Cabango, Josh Tymon, Jay Fulton, Eom Ji-sung, Gonçalo Franco, Melker Widell, Gustavo Nunes, Zan Vipotnik

Preston North End ( vs Blackburn Rovers 2026-02-20): Dai Cornell, Pol Valentín, Jordan Storey, Andrew Hughes, Lewis Gibson, Andrija Vukcevic, Alfie Devine, Benjamin Whiteman, Ali McCann, Lewis Dobbin, Milutin Osmajic

&#8216;I wish it wasn&#8217;t&#8217; &#8211; Middlesbrough boss provides fitness update on midfielder

‘I wish it wasn’t’ – Middlesbrough boss provides fitness update on midfielder
‘I wish it wasn’t’ – Middlesbrough boss provides fitness update on midfielder

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg admitted he would play midfielder Riley McGree for the entirety of every game, if it were possible.

McGree has had a torrid time with injuries, and came back from his latest setback last month.

He has played a part in each of the four games since his return, registering two goals and two assists in that time.

“Riley, I would put up every game for 90 minutes if that was possible, but it’s not,” Hellberg said ahead of the game against Leicester City.

“Riley is brilliant, I would like to have three of Riley and then playing him all the time, but that’s not always possible.

“He’s coming back from injury which means that you have to manage it. That’s what it is. I wish it wasn’t, but it is what it is. You need to try, with players coming back from injury, to protect them a little bit from that.

“When players are coming back, and when you play games very close together, you need to try to manage them in the best way to get them up to that speed where they can start every game.”

Vote for your Player of the Month for February!

Vote for your Player of the Month for February!
Vote for your Player of the Month for February!

Konate, Alajbegovic or Krätzig?

All our matches for the month are over! Along with reaching the cup semi-finals, we had mixed fortunes after the winter break in the ADMIRAL Bundesliga with one win, one draw and one loss. We've now selected three of our lads who shone. As always, you will crown the best of the bunch.

These are our nominees for the February Player of the Month trophy:

Karim Konate

The Ivorian made his first domestic starts since his comeback and quickly rediscovered his old form. His winning goal in the cup quarter-final against WAC was followed by a strike in the 1-1 draw against GAK and a brace in the away win against LASK. The 21-year-old demonstrated that he is not only lightning fast, but also strong in the air.

Kerim Alajbegovic

From Karim to Kerim. The creative attacker had a wonderful end to to the month, having already gained three goal contributions in the two Europa League matches in January. His stunning goal to give us a 1-0 lead against LASK and a beautiful assist for Sota Kitano paved the way for our big win in the top-of-the-table clash.

Frans Krätzig

Our pillar on the left wing. The German not only shone defensively, but also recorded a total of three assists – one against GAK and two against LASK.

VOTE NOW

The Title Is Gone &#8211; Liverpool&#8217;s Real Fight Is for Champions League Football

The Title Is Gone – Liverpool’s Real Fight Is for Champions League Football
The Title Is Gone – Liverpool’s Real Fight Is for Champions League Football

Liverpool entered this season as defending Premier League champions and many observers genuinely believed that Arne Slot’s side could win it again, especially after the summer transfer window that they had.

Fast forward to mid-February 2026, and reality has hit the Reds square in the face. They won’t be retaining their top-flight title.

The Gap That Says It All

Still in sixth place despite Sunday’s dramatic win over Nottingham Forest, Liverpool trail league leaders Arsenal by 16 points, a chasm that no amount of wishful thinking can bridge. With 11 games to go, a recovery might be mathematically possible, but realistically that’s never happening. It just isn’t.

At this point, the title race is a two-horse contest between Arsenal and Manchester City, and  bookmakers agree. The Gunners are priced as short as 4/11 to lift the trophy, with Pep Guardiola’s side available at 2/1. For the full picture on who’s expected to win it and at what prices, the Premier League winner odds page on Transfermarkt gives a sharp overview of where the market stands.

As for Liverpool? They are sitting at 80/1 or longer at most bookmakers, a price that tells you everything about their title prospects this season.

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

What Liverpool Are Actually Fighting For

Not only will Liverpool not win the title this season, they also mightn’t qualify for the Champions League.

As of Monday morning, they sit level on points with Chelsea and Manchester United in fourth and fifth respectively. Fifth place might clinch Champions League football again for next term, so it gives the Reds more hope, and Gary Lineker has backed them to just about make it.

Arne Slot has said himself that failing to qualify for the competition would be unacceptable, but he seems confident that his job will still be safe even if they miss out. The jury remains out on that.

If Liverpool miss out on qualification via domestic standings, their last resort would be to win this season’s Champions League to make it into the 2026/27 tournament. That’s not impossible for a team of the Reds’ stature and quality, but it is a tall order.

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Why This Season Went Wrong

Numerous injuries to key players have hollowed out Liverpool’s campaign. The absences of Alexander Isak, Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley at various points have disrupted rhythm and weakened squad depth. The Reds have also conceded four 90th-minute winners in the league this season – a grim record that reflects a side lacking the resilience that true title contenders possess.

Despite recent improvement, Slot’s team have still won just three out of nine Premier League games so far in 2026. That win rate cannot continue if Champions League football remains the objective.

Objectives Revised, Motivation Intact

Liverpool’s story this season is no longer about the title. It is now about salvaging something meaningful from a campaign that promised so much in the league. The gap towards Arsenal and Man City is too wide to close, but finishing in the top four is a realistic objective.

Thirty-three points to play for across 11 more league games. That is the main mission for the Reds in the final stretch of 2025/26, and Champions League qualification is simply non-negotiable.

Revenge of the Birds readers: How did you become a fan of the Arizona Cardinals?

Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; A fan reacts in the second half between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Some fans choose their team, and some fans are chosen by their team. Which was it for you? Today, we want to hear your story from you: How you became a fan of the Arizona Cardinals.

When did you first become a fan? Were you born into it? Was there a specific game or season that pulled you in? What’s the earliest moment you remember as a fan? 

Let’s hear your story.

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For me, I have told the story quite often, but my dad was born and raised in Arizona, so when they got an NFL team for the first time when I was just three, he was immediately a fan.

He hated the Cowboys even growing up here and getting the games every week, but as soon as the Cardinals were in Arizona, it was all Cardinals.

What a curse it has been, but the suffering makes you stronger as a fan.

Sorry kids, you are stuck!

PREVIEW | Hull City vs Derby County - team news, lineups, predictions

PREVIEW | Hull City vs Derby County - team news, lineups, predictions
PREVIEW | Hull City vs Derby County - team news, lineups, predictions

Hull City and Derby County face each other this Tuesday at the KCOM Stadium for round 34 of the EFL Championship.

Hull City have picked up 54 points and currently lie in 5th position. In their last fixture, Sergej Jakirovic's team suffered a 1-3 reverse against QPR (EFL Championship 2025/26).

Derby County have won 48 points to date and are placed in 8th position. In their last encounter, John Eustace's team were beaten 2-0 by Watford (EFL Championship 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Derby County winning 2-1.

Predicted lineups

Hull City: Ivor Pandur, Lewie Coyle, John Egan, Paddy McNair, Ryan Giles, Regan Slater, Amir Hadziahmetovic, Babajide Akintola, Joe Gelhardt, Liam Millar, Oliver McBurnie

Derby County: Josh Vickers, Callum Elder, Dion Sanderson, Matt Clarke, Joe Ward, Lewis Travis, David Ozoh, Rhian Brewster, Sammie Szmodics, Ben Brereton, Patrick Agyemang

Unavailable

Hull City

  • Eliot Matazo - Injury
  • Mohamed Belloumi - Torn Thigh Muscle
  • Darko Gyabi - Groin Injury

Derby County

  • Jacob Zetterström - Ill
  • Sondre Langas - Hamstring Injury

Last starting XIs

Hull City ( vs QPR 2026-02-21): Ivor Pandur, Lewie Coyle, John Egan, Paddy McNair, Ryan Giles, Amir Hadziahmetovic, Regan Slater, Yu Hirakawa, Joe Gelhardt, Liam Millar, Oliver McBurnie

Derby County ( vs Watford 2026-02-21): Josh Vickers, Joe Ward, Dion Sanderson, Matt Clarke, Callum Elder, David Ozoh, Lewis Travis, Ben Brereton, Sammie Szmodics, Rhian Brewster, Patrick Agyemang

Jack Draper names his five best friends on the ATP Tour

Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images
Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images

Jack Draper’s long absence from the ATP Tour is set to end on Monday when he competes at the Dubai Tennis Championships.

For the majority of 2025, Draper was nursing a left arm injury, which resulted in him playing just one ATP match after the Wimbledon Championships.

Draper made his return to competitive play earlier this month, helping Great Britain advance at the Davis Cup.

Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images for ITF
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images for ITF

He then withdrew from the Rotterdam Open, raising further concerns about the status of his arm.

However, he is finally set to end his long absence from the Tour when he plays Quentin Halys in Dubai.

Ahead of the event in the UAE, Draper was asked to name his best friends on the Tour.

Jack Draper’s five best friends on the ATP Tour

In a video with the Dubai Tennis Championships, Draper identified three British players as his best friends on the Tour.

The British number one chose doubles star Lloyd Glasspool, British number three Jacob Fearnley and youngster Jack Pinnington Jones, who recently made his first ATP Tour quarter-final at the Dallas Open.

Draper also named two more best friends who hail from locations outside the UK: Jannik Sinner and Matteo Berrettini.

Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images
Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

Other notable ATP stars also revealed their best friends on the Tour.

Hubert Hurkacz chose Jannik Sinner and Grigor Dimitrov, while Felix Auger-Aliassime highlighted Denis Shapovalov, Gabriel Diallo and Alexis Galarneau.

Stan Wawrinka named Gael Monfils as his best friend, while Daniil Medvedev selected Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev.

Rublev chose Medvedev, Khachanov, Alexander Zverev, Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz. Khachanov chose Rublev, Medvedev and Alexander Bublik.

Jannik Sinner said Jack Draper is one of his best friends on Tour

Speaking to The Telegraph ahead of his participation in the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, Sinner told reporters in London: “You’re lucky to have a player like him [Draper].

Photo by DAVID GRAY / AFP via Getty Images
Photo by DAVID GRAY / AFP via Getty Images

“After Andy [Murray], they need someone big. He [Draper] is someone big, and he’s someone who is going to stay there for a very, very long time.

“One of the best friends I have on the tour. We are quite similar in the way we make a lot of sacrifices to be the best we can.

“He came also, when I was banned. He came to Monaco to practise there, and everything was great. But now things are … are a bit different, because, you know, he’s No 4 in the world.”

5 potential surprise player exits from Patriots in 2026 offseason

The New England Patriots will face some tough decisions in the 2026 offseason.

They clearly aren't looking to rock the boat too much after their improbable Super Bowl run last season. Against all odds, the Mike Vrabel-led Patriots swung for the fences and nearly hit a home run. A few tweaks at the plate could be all that's needed to get the ball over the fence next season.

That could involve upgrading the talent in specific areas on the roster. However, their ability to do so effectively could force the team to make cuts in other areas. It's a great balancing act that every team must go through every offseason.

The business side of football is very real and ever-present, regardless of the tight-knit relationships built behind closed doors. Here are five Patriots players who could make surprise exits from the team in the 2026 offseason:

WR Stefon Diggs

Stefon Diggs was everything the Patriots hoped he would be during the regular season. He was a strong locker room leader, and he delivered epic pre-game speeches that turned into year-long phrases that the entire New England fan base got behind.

"We're all we got. We're all we need."

That was Diggs.

The former four-time Pro Bowler became the first wide receiver for the Patriots to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards since Julian Edelman. But he only had 14 catches for 110 yards and one touchdown in total throughout all four of the team's playoff games. Plus, he will have the second-biggest salary cap hit this offseason ($26.5 million) at 32 years old.

The first order of business should be the Patriots approaching Diggs for a potential pay cut. If that plan goes sideways, it could create a situation where the team looks for a way out.

EDGE K'Lavon Chaisson

Every team in the NFL is always looking for the next great pass-rusher. K'Lavon Chaisson is a former first-round draft pick who managed to turn his career around in the one season that he spent in New England. He overtook Keion White as a starter and cashed in on 7.5 sacks. That effort continued in the playoffs with the 26-year-old defender racking up three sacks, one pass deflection and a forced fumble.

The Patriots would probably love to have Chaisson back at the right price, but they could run into trouble with him hitting the open market, where other teams might be willing to overpay for pass-rushing help. It's important to keep in mind that Chaisson was a perceived first-round bust before arriving in New England, and he worked hard to create an opportunity to maximize his value in free agency.

He has earned the right to take the biggest offer he can get on the open market.

RB Antonio Gibson

Antonio Gibson was a solid contributor on offense and special teams for the Patriots before going down with a torn ACL in Week 5 last season. Heading into 2026, he would likely be the No. 3 running back option behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

Couple that with the questions surrounding his recovery timetable, and it might make more sense for the Patriots to move on in the offseason. There might also be more competition to keep an eye on in 2026. Lan Larison, the undrafted rookie from last season, was a promising prospect that the team loved before his season-ending injury during the preseason.

LB Harold Landry III

Harold Landry III had an underwhelming season for the Patriots, but he was clearly hobbled by a knee injury, which he hinted at undergoing offseason surgery to repair. He still led the team with 8.5 sacks, and there is hope that he will be more productive when healthy.

With that said, a premature break-up means the Patriots could be eyeing $19 million in dead cap, which might be enough to keep them from pulling the trigger on such a move.

DT Christian Barmore

The thinking here is that the Patriots should keep Christian Barmore and Milton Williams as a defensive tackle tandem. If the team managed to do that, while also trading for a No. 1 edge rusher, like Las Vegas Raiders' two-time All-Pro defender Maxx Crosby, it would take the defense to a whole other level.

With that said, Williams is the foundational piece with legitimate superstar potential along the defensive front. The team could consider moving on from Barmore to help out in other areas of the roster.

Cory Durden was a surprisingly solid rotational piece last season, and Khyiris Tonga, who is a pending free agent, showed why he is highly underrated. The Patriots also have hope that last year's rookie fourth-round draft pick, Joshua Farmer, will develop into a more consistent contributor in Year 2.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: 5 potential surprise player exits from Patriots in 2026 offseason

Will Team USA men&#39;s hockey go to the White House? It&#39;s complicated

The U.S. men's Olympic hockey team captured its first gold medal since the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" on Sunday, and the team was already planning for its formal celebration at the White House minutes later.

But the logistics may be more complicated than the team would have thought in the moment.

In a call with Donald Trump, the U.S. president congratulated the players on the historic gold medal as FBI director Kash Patel held his phone on speaker. Trump then invited the team to the White House for Tuesday's State of the Union and made a condescending remark about the gold medal-winning women's hockey team.

Yet, at the time, Team USA was all about taking Trump up on the invitation. The team was scheduled to fly from Italy to Miami and then join their respective NHL clubs as the season restarts on Wednesday.

That's where the State of the Union appearance could run into complications.

You can hear the genuine pride in Donald Trumps voice when he called the Team USA Hockey Team pic.twitter.com/ch6GbXShwh

— Harrison Krank (@HarrisonKrank) February 23, 2026

On Wednesday, the NHL has eight games on the schedule, making for a super quick restart from the Olympic break. And when it comes to Team USA, 12 players on the 25-man roster are going to be playing in those Wednesday games. That includes U.S. captain Auston Matthews, goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (who is scheduled to be in Vancouver) and game-winning hero Jack Hughes.

According to The Athletic, it will be up to the individual clubs to excuse players to attend the State of the Union. But the league won't stop any player that chooses to do so. Via The Athletic:

U.S. team GM Bill Guerin, also GM of the Wild, told The Athletic via text that he’s fine with Wild players Quinn Hughes, Matt Boldy and Brock Faber going to the State of Union and White House if they want to, and he’s not sure what other teams will decide. The Wild resume the season Thursday night at Colorado.

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told The Athletic that players can decide on an individual basis if they want accept the invitation and then it’ll be up to their individual teams whether or not to grant permission.

Now, that would also be more straightforward if the Northeast wasn't getting hammered by a blizzard. The last thing a team would want is to excuse a key player for one game and have it end up turning into a multi-game absence.

We'll see if any players take Trump up on the offer, but the actual reality of the invite will be far more complicated.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Will Team USA men's hockey go to the White House? It's complicated

Mexico cartel battle causes major 2026 FIFA World Cup concerns

Major issues are arising in Mexico just months before the country is slated to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and soccer fans around the world are massively concerned.

In recent days, a Mexico cartel battle has ensued after a powerful drug kingpin was killed during a military operation. As a result, many news organizations have reported that the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes aka ‘El Mencho’ has caused a significant rise in violence.

That’s included members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) taking over public transportation and other local businesses in over 20 Mexican states. This comes just four months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup returns to North America.

MORE: 2026 FIFA World Cup draw announced, 12 groups of 48 countries revealed

BREAKING: People across the world are in fear for their lives after social media users mentioned that the FIFA World Cup is taking place in Mexico in 4 months and the nation is currently being dominated by Cartel opposition. pic.twitter.com/FRReFhffqi

— Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) February 23, 2026

While the bulk of the World Cup matches will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada each have responsibilities to present games as well.

However, given the current state of the Mexican cartel war there are growing concerns from soccer fans. Those that have already purchased tickets certainly have reservations about safety at the event.

Mexico’s top soccer league, Liga MX, postponed several high-profile matches due to tension in the country. Meanwhile, there’s no timetable for when teams could return to the pitch in cities affected by the violence.

MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo makes shocking claim about Lionel Messi in Piers Morgan interview

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and USA President Donald Trump arrive ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw.. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Ernst-Reuters via Imagn Images

The Mexican national team is slated to kick off the 2026 FIFA World Cup when the group stage begins in June. Mexico will take on South Africa, South Korea and an undetermined opponent in the first round of the competition.

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The post Mexico cartel battle causes major 2026 FIFA World Cup concerns appeared first on The Big Lead.

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