Sri Lanka’s fastest man, Yupun Abeykoon, says he is retiring from athletics out of frustration rather than a lack of ability, claiming inadequate financial support and poor sporting infrastructure have forced him to end his career prematurely.

Abeykoon made history by becoming the first Sri Lankan to run the 100 metres in under 10 seconds, clocking a national record of 9.96 seconds in 2022. He also won gold in the men’s 100m at the 2022 Asian Athletics Championships and represented Sri Lanka at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Speaking about his decision, Abeykoon said he still believes he has another two to three years left at the highest level and could have represented Sri Lanka at another Olympic Games.

“I am retiring out of disappointment. I still have two or three more years in me. I could still compete for Sri Lanka and even qualify for another Olympics. But with everything that has happened, I feel this is the right time to stop,” he said.

Abeykoon said years of trying to secure support had taken a toll on his motivation.

“I kept trying for one year, then two, then three, hoping things would improve. You keep asking yourself whether you’ll finally get the support you need. Eventually, you lose the motivation to push yourself harder in training because you don’t see any results from all the effort you put in,” he said.

He added that while he would like to contribute to Sri Lankan athletics in the future, the current state of the sport discourages him.

“I love this sport and I would like to do something for it. But under the current circumstances, I don’t think I can. There is still so much that needs to be improved,” he said.

Abeykoon also pointed to the condition of the Sugathadasa Stadium as an example of the challenges faced by athletes.

“Just look at Sugathadasa Stadium and you’ll understand the situation. Without proper facilities, I don’t think we can achieve great things, even if I return or even if the world’s best coaches come here,” he said.

The sprinter also revealed that he had repeatedly tried to meet the current Sports Minister throughout last year but was unable to do so due to the minister’s busy schedule.

“I tried throughout last year to contact him, but I couldn’t even get him on the phone. The last time I came to Sri Lanka, I also tried to meet him, but I wasn’t given the opportunity,” Abeykoon said. (Newswire)

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Gateway College Colombo’s Under-20 Girls’ Football Team capped off a remarkable season by winning the Sri Lanka Schools Colombo District Championship before securing an impressive fourth-place finish at the Sri Lanka Schools All Island Under-20 Football Championship.

The team displayed outstanding form throughout the district tournament, defeating Vishaka Vidyalaya 8–1 in the semi-final before overcoming Maharagama Central College 4–1 in the final to claim the district title in commanding fashion.

The team’s momentum continued at the All Island Championship, where Gateway became the only school from the Colombo District—and the only international school in Sri Lanka—to reach the semi-finals. Their outstanding campaign established them among the top four girls’ school football teams in the country.

The third-place playoff proved to be one of the most exciting matches of the tournament. After a closely contested encounter ended 2–2 at full time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout. Gateway narrowly missed out on the bronze medal, going down 3–2 on penalties, but their spirited performance throughout the tournament earned them widespread admiration.

The team was led with distinction by Captain Hiruki Dasanayake, while Vice-Captain Shama Sabry provided invaluable leadership and composure throughout the season. Every member of the squad played an important role in this outstanding achievement, demonstrating commitment, resilience and teamwork at every stage of the competition.

This success was also made possible by the dedication of the coaching and administrative staff, whose meticulous preparation, unwavering support and tireless efforts throughout the season created the environment for the team to excel. Their collective contribution has been instrumental in establishing Gateway College as one of the leading forces in girls’ school football in Sri Lanka.

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“FIFA favours Argentina”, “World Cup is rigged”, “FIFA wants Lionel Messi to go far” have been common phrases heard from the mouths of different people since the 2026 World Cup started. 

It all began with Lionel Messi’s studs-up challenge against an Algerian player, while the VAR decisions in games involving Egypt and Switzerland further fuelled the ‘fixing’ accusations on FIFA, with many suggesting that Argentina are overwhelmingly being protected by the sport’s governing body.

Breaking his silence on the accusations, Messi has hit back at critics, asserting that reaching a second consecutive World Cup final proves his side is among the best in the world and that their success is “not by chance.” 

Argentina looked on the cusp of elimination from the World Cup as they came up against England in the semi-final on Wednesday. But, as has been the case in multiple Argentina matches this World Cup, the defending champions produced another heroic comeback. Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, with the help of two Messi assists, struck the late goals in a dramatic turnaround in Atlanta after Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal to take Argentina closer to retaining their world crown.

Argentina’s journey to defend their title has been filled with controversies as referees made several debatable calls that seemed to favour them. But Messi completely dismissed the claims that the tournament was biased in their favour.

“It hurts whoever it hurts… We’ve been the best for the last four years, whether people like it or not, no matter what they say. Once again, we’re among the two best in the world, and that shows that everything we’ve done isn’t by chance and nobody gave us anything. Reaching two consecutive World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner stated, taking a clear jab at the critics.

“If we had lost to England, people would have come out and said some nonsense, and we didn’t give them the chance. We knew that we were better than them in terms of football , but a lot is at stake in a match of this magnitude, where historic events happen in these games,” he added.

Messi also dedicated the win to the legendary Diego Maradona, who had famously headlined the clash between Argentina and the Three Lions in the World Cup quarter-final 40 years ago.

“Without a doubt, Diego is enjoying this immensely from up there because today was a very special day for him; to be able to give him this joy and for him to experience it however he wants from up there. Let him enjoy it because it’s a gift for him too,” he concluded. (NDTV Sports / IANS)

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Gateway College Colombo delivered an exceptional performance to emerge as champions of the International Schools Under-15 Basketball Tournament 2026, showcasing outstanding skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the competition.

The tournament brought together 13 boys’ teams from leading international schools, providing a highly competitive platform for young basketball talent. The competition featured 15 group-stage matches, four quarter-finals, two semi-finals, a consolation final, and the championship final.

Drawn in Group A alongside Lyceum International School Wattala, Colombo International School Colombo, and Royal Institute, Gateway College Colombo dominated from the outset. They opened their campaign with a convincing 59–27 victory over Lyceum International School Wattala, followed by an emphatic 55–11 win against Colombo International School Colombo to progress confidently to the knockout stage.

Gateway continued their impressive run with a 44–22 victory over Stafford International School in the quarter-finals before producing a commanding 79–17 win against British School Colombo in the semi-finals.

In the championship final, Gateway faced Lyceum International School Nugegoda in an exciting contest. Displaying excellent teamwork, disciplined defence, and attacking flair, Gateway secured a deserved 65–44 victory to lift the championship trophy.

Final Standings

• Champions: Gateway College Colombo
• Runners-up: Lyceum International School Nugegoda
• Third Place: Elizabeth Moir School
• Fourth Place: British School Colombo

Gateway’s outstanding campaign was further recognised through individual honours:

• Most Valuable Player (MVP): Adeesa Liyanage – Gateway College Colombo
• Best Defensive Player (BDP): Yoram Balasuriya – Gateway College Colombo
• Best Offensive Player (BOP):Sanithu Ariyadasa – Lyceum International School Nugegoda

The team’s success was made possible through the dedication and hard work of its coaching and administrative staff, whose commitment to developing young talent has been instrumental throughout the season.

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Argentina are back in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals. Lionel Messi’s side is two games away from another title. But as their run gathers momentum, so do the familiar accusations. 

Every major Argentina victory seems to trigger another round of debate over refereeing decisions. Social media has once again been flooded with claims that officials have favoured the South Americans. Whether those allegations have any substance is a separate discussion. But if Argentina reach the World Cup final, there will not be an English referee in charge. Here is why. 

Micheal Oliver holds the rare distinction of being the English referee to officiate the most World Cup games in a single edition. On merit alone, Oliver has strengthened his credentials for the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19. But merit is just one part of FIFA’s selection process.

Should Argentina make the final, Oliver and fellow English referee Anthony Taylor would automatically be ruled out.

Now if England reaches the final, it is quite straightforward that they won’t be eligible.

But even in the case of Argentina beating England in the semi-final and making the final, the English referees will be barred from officiating, because of the political sensitivities surrounding the Falklands dispute.

The legacy of the 1982 Falklands War continues to shape FIFA’s referee appointments more than four decades later.

The Falklands War lasted 74 days in 1982 before ending with Argentina’s surrender and Britain retaining control of the islands. The conflict left 649 Argentine soldiers, 255 British servicemen and three Falkland Islanders dead. More than four decades later, the issue remains politically sensitive. Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the islands, a position reiterated by President Javier Milei.

That is why FIFA takes no chances. The question isn’t whether a referee would favour one side. It’s whether the appointment could invite questions over neutrality.

The principle extends beyond the final. With England and Argentina on the same side of the draw, English and Norwegian referees were not in contention for Argentina’s quarter-final against Switzerland either. The winner of that tie was destined to face England or Norway in the semi-finals, so FIFA removed any possibility of a perceived conflict before the last four had even begun.

For FIFA, the concern is not whether a referee would actually be biased. It is whether appointing one could create that perception.

Because England and Argentina sit on the same side of the draw, referees from England and Norway were not considered for Argentina’s quarter-final against Switzerland. The outcome of that match directly influenced England’s potential semi-final opponent, making neutrality a factor even before the last four.

The same principle applies across the competition.

American referees are generally not considered for Iran matches, and Iranian officials would likewise not oversee games involving the United States. FIFA routinely factors geopolitical tensions into its appointments alongside nationality.

Referees are also kept away from matches that could directly affect their own country’s route through the competition. That is why Oliver and Taylor were not assigned to other matches involving England’s group rivals earlier in the tournament.

The philosophy mirrors domestic football.

The same thinking applies in domestic football. Premier League referees are kept away from clubs they support or have strong regional ties to. That’s why Michael Oliver, who comes from England’s North East, is never appointed to Newcastle United or Sunderland matches.

The World Cup simply applies those principles on a global scale.

Appointments are made on a match-by-match basis by FIFA’s refereeing department under the leadership of chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina. Performances remain the biggest factor. But politics, geography and competitive neutrality all form part of the equation.

Anthony Taylor found himself in exactly this position four years ago. He had enjoyed an outstanding tournament in Qatar and was firmly in the conversation to referee the final. But the moment Argentina booked their place against France, his chances disappeared.

The same could happen again. If Argentina reach this year’s final, neither Taylor nor Michael Oliver will be eligible for the biggest game of the tournament. (NDTV Sports)

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Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that this World Cup will be his last, with Portugal preparing for their round of 16 match against Spain that will take place on Monday in Dallas. 

The 41-year-old has played in the last six editions of the tournament, becoming the first ever player to score in six. Ronaldo says he won’t be playing at the 2030 edition that will also be co-hosted by Portugal, alongside Spain and Morocco. 

Speaking ahead of the match against Spain, Ronaldo said, “This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”

The soccer star has scored three goals so far at the World Cup. Two against Uzbekistan and then his first ever goal in the knockout stages against Croatia, when he scored a penalty. Ronaldo didn’t mention anything about a potential retirement, just that simply he won’t play another World Cup.

“The day will come, but I’ll be honest — whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in soccer. I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it … You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals so far. I’m not doing too badly, right?”

He was also asked about his thoughts on his rival on Monday, Lamine Yamal.

“He’s a player with a big future. But for me, I always see Spain as a whole, they’re all good … The more prepared you are, the better you’ll survive a long football career, if that’s what you want. If you listen to criticism, you’re lost. 

There’s constructive criticism, and there’s criticism meant to kill you, too. You have to adapt if you want a long career, and focus on the love, the passion of the fans. Over time, I learned to be connected to the people who love you, and have passion for what you’re doing.” (CBS)

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Norway fans took over Times Square in New York City on Sunday with their “Viking Row” chant ahead of their match against Senegal at the World Cup on Monday at New York New Jersey Stadium.

Norway took on Senegal in their second 2026 FIFA World Cup match of the tournament on Monday night at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Several hours before the whistle blew on the pitch, Norwegian fans flocked to Times Square in the heart of New York City to give their squad a proper sendoff.

Hundreds of Norway fans performed the “Viking Row” to offer proper support of their nation’s best soccer players. (Fox News)

An overwhelming sea of red flooded the Times Square steps.

Thousands of Norwegian fans packed the heart of Manhattan, breaking into their iconic rowing chant as Norway prepares for its latest World Cup showdown. pic.twitter.com/4OvaoDC0xr

— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 22, 2026

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Argentina captain Lionel Messi has added four more Guinness World Records to his name following his latest appearance at the FIFA World Cup.

In a post on social media, Guinness World Records said Messi broke four records in a single day, further cementing his place among football’s greatest players.

According to Guinness World Records, Messi now holds the record for the most FIFA World Cup goals scored by a football player with 18 goals.

He has also set new records for the most FIFA World Cup matches played by an individual (28), the most World Cup matches won by a player (18), and the most minutes played in FIFA World Cup history (2,489).

“We are witnessing history,” Guinness World Records said while highlighting the latest milestones achieved by the Argentine star.

The records add to an already remarkable career for Messi, who has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards, lifted the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, and continues to rewrite football’s record books at the age of 39.

His latest achievements come as Argentina continue their campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Messi once again playing a central role for the defending world champions. (Newswire)

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The Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) has renewed the contract of National Team Head Coach Abdullah Almutairi, reappointing him to lead the side under the Federation’s newly launched strategic program, “The Next Chapter.”

FFSL President Jaswar Umar confirmed the decision following discussions with Almutairi on the future direction and ambitions of Sri Lanka Football. He praised the coach’s professionalism, commitment, and the positive results achieved during his first tenure, noting that the national team’s FIFA ranking climbed from 205 to 187 alongside a string of international victories.

Umar said the Federation was satisfied with the successful completion of key performance targets and had “no hesitation” in offering Almutairi a second contract, reflecting confidence in his leadership and technical expertise.

With the renewed mandate, Almutairi will oversee preparations for upcoming international competitions while driving the FFSL’s new technical and competitive objectives. 

His role is central to the Federation’s long-term vision of strengthening foundations, enhancing competitiveness, and building greater visibility for Sri Lanka Football at regional and international levels.

FFSL states the renewal marks another milestone in “The Next Chapter” initiative, which it describes as a framework for sustainable development and national team success. (Newswire)

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The Colombo Touch Rugby Club has achieved a significant milestone in its young but inspiring journey, successfully completing its second international tour at a tournament hosted by the Lanna Hedgehogs in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

In a historic first for the club, both a Men’s Team and a Mixed Team were fielded at an international competition marking a defining moment not only for the club but also for the growth of touch rugby in Sri Lanka.

This achievement is the result of months of unwavering dedication, planning, and collective effort. At the start of the year, the club set itself an ambitious goal: to take the entire squad overseas. Despite the challenges of fundraising, logistics, and coordination, the team remained committed to a singular promise no player would be left behind.

On 13th May, that promise became a reality, as every player who had worked toward this dream boarded the flight to Chiang Mai—an achievement that represented a victory in its own right.

The teams further demonstrated their capabilities on the field with outstanding performances:

• Men’s Team emerged as Cup Runners-Up
• Mixed Team secured the title of Shield Champions

For a club established just a year ago, these accomplishments underscore not only athletic talent but also the resilience, unity, and spirit that define Colombo Touch Rugby Club.

The club extended its appreciation to its supporters, community members, and partners, including LAUGFS Holdings Ltd, whose backing played a crucial role in making the international tour possible.

Looking ahead, Colombo Touch Rugby Club is set to host its second international tournament on 5th and 6th September in Nittawela, Kandy. This event represents another important step in expanding FIT Touch Rugby across mainland Sri Lanka and fostering a vibrant sporting community.

Beyond competition, the club remains committed to building a platform that strengthens connections, promotes inclusivity, and creates lasting social impact through sport.

This milestone marks not just an achievement but the beginning of a far greater journey.

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Two exceptional swimmers from Gateway College Colombo, Lithum De Silva and Hashel Senarath, have earned selection to represent Sri Lanka at the 12th Asian Age Group Swimming Championships, to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 17th to 21st July 2026.

The national selection trials, organised by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union from 8th to 10th May at the Sugathadasa Swimming Pool Complex, brought together the country’s finest young aquatic talent. After three days of fierce competition, Lithum and Hashel secured their spots in the national squad.

Competing in the Under-19 category, Lithum De Silva qualified for the 200m Freestyle and both the 4×100m and 4×200m Freestyle relays. His most commanding performance came in the 200m Freestyle, where he posted a time of 1:57.80, earning 649 World Aquatics points. This will be Lithum’s second appearance at the Asian Age Group Championships, having represented Sri Lanka at the 2024 edition, adding valuable international experience to his growing profile.

In the Under-15 category, Hashel Senarath has announced himself emphatically on the national stage. He earned selection across the 50m, 100m, and 200m Butterfly, as well as multiple relay events. His 200m Butterfly performance proved especially significant, recording a time of 2:16.78 that shattered the Sri Lanka Junior National Record. This will be Hashel’s first international competition, a milestone that underscores his remarkable rise and exceptional potential.

Their selection is a source of immense pride for Gateway College Colombo, and a testament to the talent, discipline, and perseverance of both swimmers, alongside the unwavering support of their coaches and families.

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Neymar has been ⁠ruled out of Brazil’s upcoming friendlies and is set to miss their World Cup opener after scans revealed a grade-two calf injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has confirmed.

CBF doctor Rodrigo Lasmar delivered the blow on Thursday ahead of a players’ media conference, confirming the 34-year-old forward faces two to three more weeks on the sidelines.

“Neymar reported for duty yesterday here ⁠at Granja Comary, underwent all the medical tests, which concluded with an MRI scan revealing a grade-two calf injury, not just swelling. He is expected to be cleared in two to three weeks,” Lasmar said.

He did not say whether Neymar could be dropped from the squad.

He had joined the team on ‌Tuesday but missed Wednesday’s first training session and was sent to a private clinic in Teresopolis for imaging tests after complaints of swelling in his right calf.

According to Lasmar, the MRI showed not swelling, as previously reported, but a grade-two calf strain — a moderate injury involving a partial tear of the muscle fibres that requires rest and rehabilitation.

The diagnosis differs from that presented by Santos prior to the squad announcement. The club’s doctor, Rodrigo ⁠Zogaib, stated that the problem was merely swelling, and that Neymar would ⁠arrive fit to begin training on Tuesday.

Instead, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer will miss Sunday’s friendly against Panama at the Maracana, and the subsequent match against Egypt in Cleveland. He is also all but ruled out of Brazil’s World Cup ⁠opener against African champions Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey.

Brazil are in Group C alongside Haiti and Scotland.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti is already ⁠without defenders Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos, as well as forward Gabriel ⁠Martinelli for Sunday’s fixture due to their involvement in this weekend’s Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

Neymar’s recall last week had generated widespread excitement after not featuring in Ancelotti’s plans during the Italian’s year in charge. ‌

The forward, who has scored 79 goals in 128 international appearances, has endured years of injury troubles and an underwhelming return to Santos.

In an interview with Reuters earlier this month, Ancelotti ‌said ‌that Neymar would receive no special treatment, and that his place in the squad would be strictly based on fitness and form, not sentiment.

For now, Brazil must plan without him. (Al Jazeera)

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Navindu Waduwavala and Anujitha Samarasundera have earned places in the Sri Lanka U-18 boys’ squad, while Yohali Balasuriya will compete in the girls’ U-18 team. Their selection reflects the consistent work put in by the students and the strength of Gateway’s basketball programme at the national level.

The tournament, organised by the Basketball Federation of Sri Lanka, runs from May 25 to 29 at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. As the South Asian qualifying event for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026, it will feature 12 matches across both the boys’ and girls’ categories. Teams that advance will qualify for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad, scheduled from August 13 to 23. In the girls’ category, the winner will secure a spot in the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Division B tournament in Thailand.

This regional tournament offers a valuable platform for emerging young athletes to gain international exposure and compete at a high level. For Gateway, the representation of three students on the national stage is a significant milestone and a reflection of the school’s continued commitment to excellence in sport.

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The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup — the biggest ever — will see 48 nations compete for the prize in a 39-day tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Sixteen venues across the three nations will host 104 matches as the tournament returns to North America after 32 years.

Argentina will look to defend the trophy they lifted under their iconic captain, Lionel Messi, at Qatar 2022, while Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan will make their debut at the finals.

The tournament will begin in Mexico and conclude in the US.

Here’s everything you need to know about its teams, groups, format and schedule.

What are the groups and teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026?

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Czechia
Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkiye
Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama

When and where is the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The tournament will open on June 11 at 3pm (21:00 GMT) at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico.

When and where is the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The MetLife Stadium, which will be called the New York New Jersey Stadium during the tournament, will host the final on July 19 at 3pm (20:00 GMT).

Why has FIFA changed the names of the stadiums hosting World Cup matches?

In a move to restrict ambush marketing for brands not associated with FIFA, the governing body has changed stadium names for all venues to match the host city.

Therefore, the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey has been rebranded as the New York New Jersey Stadium, and the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles has been renamed the Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament.

What’s the format of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The tournament will consist of one group-stage round and four knockout rounds before the final.

Unlike previous editions, the knockouts will begin with the round of 32, followed by the round of 16, the four quarterfinals and two semifinals.

The stage-wise breakdown of the tournament’s schedule is:

• Group stage: June 11 June 27
• Round of 32: June 28 to July 3
• Round of 16: July 4-7
• Quarterfinals: July 9-11
• Semifinals: July 14-15
• Bronze medal match: July 18
• Final: July 19

What’s the full match schedule of the World Cup?

Group stage

• Thursday, June 11

Mexico vs South Africa at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

South Korea vs Czechia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Friday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Friday, June 12

Canada vs Bosnia at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

USA vs Paraguay at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Saturday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Saturday, June 13

Qatar vs Switzerland at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

Brazil vs Morocco at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Haiti vs Scotland at 9pm (02:00 GMT on Sunday) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Australia vs Turkiye at midnight (08:00 GMT on Sunday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Sunday, June 14

Germany vs Curacao at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Netherlands vs Japan at 4pm (22:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Ivory Coast vs Ecuador at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Monday) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Sweden vs Tunisia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Monday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Monday, June 15

Spain vs Cape Verde at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Belgium vs Egypt at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Iran vs New Zealand at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Tuesday, June 16

France vs Senegal at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Iraq vs Norway at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Argentina vs Algeria at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Austria vs Jordan at midnight (08:00 GMT on Wednesday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Wednesday, June 17

Portugal vs DRC at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

England vs Croatia at 4pm (22:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Ghana vs Panama at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Thursday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Uzbekistan vs Colombia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Thursday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Thursday, June 18

Czechia vs South Africa at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Switzerland vs Bosnia at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Canada vs Qatar at 6pm (02:00 GMT on Friday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Mexico vs South Korea at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Friday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Friday, June 19

Scotland vs Morocco at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

USA vs Australia at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Brazil vs Haiti at 9pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Turkiye vs Paraguay at midnight (08:00 GMT on Saturday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Saturday, June 20

Netherlands vs Sweden at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Germany vs Ivory Coast at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Ecuador vs Curacao at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Tunisia vs Japan at midnight (06:00 GMT on Sunday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Sunday, June 21

Spain vs Saudi Arabia at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Belgium vs Iran at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Uruguay vs Cape Verde at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

New Zealand vs Egypt at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Monday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Monday, June 22

Argentina vs Austria at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

France vs Iraq at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Norway vs Senegal at 8pm (01:00 GMT on Tuesday) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Jordan vs Algeria at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Tuesday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Tuesday, June 23

Portugal vs Uzbekistan at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

England vs Ghana at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Panama vs Croatia at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Colombia vs DRC at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Wednesday, June 24

Switzerland vs Canada at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Bosnia vs Qatar at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Scotland vs Brazil at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Morocco vs Haiti at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Czechia vs Mexico at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Thursday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

South Africa vs South Korea at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Thursday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Thursday, June 25

Ecuador vs Germany at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Curacao vs Ivory Coast at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Japan vs Sweden at 7pm (01:00 GMT on Friday) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Tunisia vs Netherlands at 7pm (01:00 GMT on Friday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US,

Turkiye vs USA at 10pm (06:00 GMT on Friday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Paraguay vs Australia at 10pm (06:00 GMT on Friday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Friday, June 26

Norway vs France at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Senegal vs Iraq at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Uruguay vs Spain at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

Egypt vs Iran at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Saturday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

New Zealand vs Belgium at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Saturday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Saturday, June 27

Panama vs England at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Croatia vs Ghana at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Colombia vs Portugal at 7:30pm (02:30 GMT on Sunday) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

DRC vs Uzbekistan at 7:30pm (02:30 GMT on Sunday) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Algeria vs Austria at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Jordan vs Argentina at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Knockout stage

Sunday, June 28

Round of 32 match at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Monday, June 29

Round of 32 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Round of 32 match at 4:30pm (22:30 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Round of 32 match at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Tuesday, June 30

Round of 32 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 32 match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Round of 32 match at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Wednesday, July 1

Round of 32 match at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Round of 32 match at 4pm (00:00 GMT on Thursday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Round of 32 match at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Thursday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Thursday, July 2

Round of 32 match at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Round of 32 match at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Friday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Round of 32 match at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Friday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Friday, July 3

Round of 32 match at 2pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 32 match at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Round of 32 match at 9:30pm (03:30 GMT on Saturday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

• Saturday, July 4

Round of 16 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Round of 16 match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

• Sunday, July 5

Round of 16 match at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Round of 16 match at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Monday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Monday, July 6

Round of 16 match at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 16 match at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

• Tuesday, July 7

Round of 16 match at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Round of 16 match at 4pm (00:00 GMT on Wednesday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Thursday, 9 July

First quarterfinal at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

• Friday, 10 July

Second quarterfinal at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Saturday, July 11

Third quarterfinal at 5pm (22:00 GMT) –  Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Fourth quarterfinal at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

• Tuesday, July 14

First semifinal at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

• Wednesday, July 15

Second semifinal at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

• Saturday, July 18

Bronze medal match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

• Sunday, July 19

Final at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US. (Al Jazeera)

The post FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams, groups, format and full match schedule appeared first on Newswire.

Sri Lanka’s javelin star Rumesh Tharanga, who recently set a new meet record of 89.28m at the Kip Keino Classic in Kenya, met Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage on Monday (27), accompanied by his coach.

According to the Sports Ministry, Rumesh and his coach expressed their gratitude to the Minister for the financial and technical assistance provided through the “Mission Olympic” program. 

Rumesh noted that the support has been a source of strength for athletes striving for international success, including himself. 

Minister Gamage commended Rumesh’s achievements and discussed plans for upcoming tournaments. 

Recognizing his potential to win an Olympic medal for Sri Lanka, the Minister pledged full financial allocations, foreign training, and other facilities.

“Rumesh Tharanga is an athlete who has brought Olympic hope to this country. It is the responsibility of the Ministry to provide maximum support to him and his coach,” Minister Gamage stated. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka National Football Team concluded its 2027 Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a remarkable 3–1 victory over Chinese Taipei in Taipei, marking their second consecutive away win against the side.

Despite the impressive result, Sri Lanka did not secure qualification for the Asian Cup. Competing in Group D, the team played six matches, winning three and finishing third in the points table.

The win, however, has boosted Sri Lanka’s standing in world football. With Chinese Taipei ranked 174 and Sri Lanka at 194 before the match, the victory is expected to lift Sri Lanka’s FIFA ranking to around 190, a four‑place improvement.

Football Sri Lanka noted that over the past 18 months, Sri Lanka has surged from a ranking of 207 to approximately 190, reflecting sustained progress.

“This victory stands as a historic milestone for Sri Lankan sport and reflects the emergence of a new era in Sri Lanka Football,” Football Sri Lanka said in a statement. (Newswire)

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Thursday it was reintroducing testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing.

The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD) from competing.

In a major shift of policy, the IOC is abandoning rules it brought in in 2021, which allowed individual federations to decide their own policy and is instead implementing a policy across all sports.

“Eligibility for any female category event at the Olympic Games or any other IOC event, including individual and team sports, is now limited to biological females, determined on the basis of a one‑time SRY gene screening,” the IOC said in a statement.

They will be carried out through a saliva sample, cheek swab or blood sample.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry said: “The policy we have announced is based on science and has been led by medical experts. At the Olympic Games even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat.

“So it is absolutely clear that it would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category. In addition, in some sports it would simply not be safe.”

The new policy removes a potential source of conflict between the IOC and U.S. President Donald Trump at the Los Angeles Olympics.

Trump issued an executive order banning transgender athletes from women’s sports soon after he came to office.

While sports such as swimming, athletics, cycling and rowing have brought in bans, many others have permitted transgender women to compete in the female category if they lowered their testosterone levels, normally through taking a course of drugs.

The new ban will also cover athletes with DSD, the rare condition in which a person’s hormones, genes and reproductive organs may have a combination of male and female characteristics.

The best-known DSD athlete of recent years is South African runner Caster Semenya, the two-time Olympic women’s 800-meter champion who has male XY chromosomes.

Gender testing was first introduced at the 1968 Olympics and last used at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta but then scrapped.

The IOC is bringing in the new policy after the women’s boxing competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics was rocked by a gender row involving Algerian fighter Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals.

Lin has since been cleared to compete in the female category at events run by World Boxing, the body that will oversee the sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. (AFP)

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New Zealand Rugby has announced an exciting return to Sri Lanka for the New Zealand Under 85kg national team in April 2026, launching a two‑match international tour designed to deepen global rugby ties and fuel the sport’s growing presence across the region. 

The tour will feature two fixtures against Sri Lanka’s national side, with Game One in Colombo on 25 April and Game Two in Kandy on 3 May. 

Steve Lancaster, Interim Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby, says that the 2025 tour had a lasting impact well beyond the field. 

“We’re genuinely stoked to be able to confirm this tour and give this team the opportunity to represent New Zealand overseas again. Sri Lanka are a proud rugby nation and last year’s tour drew passionate crowds and strong community engagement. We know the Sri Lankan team will offer another strong challenge on the field and that’s exactly what you expect when you pull on a black jersey.” 

Supporting Ben Sinnamon, Head Coach of the New Zealand Under 85kg team, is a coaching group that blends high-performance experience with deep roots in the community game. Former international John Afoa adds technical and high-performance expertise, while Scott Hooper brings extensive experience within the Under 85kg community through Pukekohe Rugby Club and Counties Manukau Rugby Union. 

The 2026 tour also recognises the role rugby can play in supporting Sri Lanka’s sporting landscape, with the 2025 series widely regarded as a catalyst for renewed interest, participation and pride in the local game. 

The Under 85kg programme continues to play an important role in New Zealand Rugby’s participation pathway, offering representative opportunities for club players while also supporting international rugby development through meaningful engagement. 

2026 Tour Fixtures 

Game One: 

New Zealand Under 85kg v Sri Lanka Tuskers 

Colombo – 25 April 2026 

Game Two: 

New Zealand Under 85kg v Sri Lanka Tuskers 

Kandy – 3 May 2026 

Squad Information 

A New Zealand Under 85kg squad has been confirmed for the tour, featuring a blend of players returning from the 2025 series and new selections from the National Under 85kg Club Cup. 

The squad has been selected from clubs across the country and reflects the growing depth and reach of the Under 85kg game in New Zealand. 

2026 New Zealand Under 85kg National Team

Weight-restricted rugby 

Under 85kg rugby is a weight-restricted format designed to promote inclusivity, skill and safety by removing size mismatches from the game. 

The format places a strong emphasis on speed, fitness, decision making and technical ability rather than physical size. 

New Zealand has the most established and visible weight-restricted programme through Under 85kg rugby, with structured domestic competitions and an international representative pathway. 

International tours play an important role in the development of the programme, exposing players to different playing styles, conditions and rugby cultures. (NZ Rugby)

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The Sri Lanka team that participated in the 7th Roll Ball World Cup held in Dubai has alleged that due to the misconduct of their association’s officials, they had to face numerous difficulties during the World Cup tournament.

Upon their arrival in Sri Lanka recently, the women’s and men’s teams said that several of the team members were unable to attend the tournament due to the Association’s failure to apply for visas. 

“We came to Colombo on December 13 to leave for the tournament on the 14th, but were unable to depart as several of our members had not received their visas. Trainers and team managers of the two teams had also not received their visas. The association informed that the visas would be processed by the 16th, and everyone can travel together. However, on that day, several of our members, coaches and team managers had not received their visas. The association told those with visas to depart and that the rest would join the following day. The women’s team competed until the semifinal and became pole champions. However, until the last moment, the remaining players and staff did not turn up, causing severe difficulties in their participation in the tournament,” the teams said.

They alleged that the Sri Lanka Roll Ball Association was aware that visas cannot be applied for the players or coaching staff after two days of the commencement of the competition. 

Stating that they were only sent for participation, and the association had failed to provide the necessary support, the teams called for an inquiry into the association members and sought justice for their unfair treatment. (Newswire)

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The highly anticipated GOAT Tour featuring Argentina football legend Lionel Messi is just around the corner, and excitement among fans in India knows no bounds. 

Messi will visit India on December 13, 14, and 15, covering four cities during his jam-packed schedule. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner will travel to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, participating in several events. 

Before concluding his India tour, Messi will arrive in the national capital, where he is reportedly scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Joining Messi on the tour will be his long-time strike partner, Luis Suarez and Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul. They will be part of the Mumbai leg of the tour, according to Satadru Dutta, the sole promoter of the ‘G.O.A.T. India Tour 2025’, as per a PTI report.

Here’s the full schedule of Messi’s GOAT Tour:

• December 13, Kolkata

1:30 am: Arrival in Kolkata

9:30 am to 10:30 am: Meet-and-greet programme

10:30 am to 11:15 am: Virtual inauguration of Messi’s statue

11:15 am to 11:25 am: Arrival at Yuva Bharati

11:30 am: Shah Rukh Khan arrives at Yuva Bharati

12:00 pm: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Sourav Ganguly arrive at the stadium

12:00 pm to 12:30 pm: Friendly match, felicitation and interaction

2:00 pm: Departure for Hyderabad

• December 13, Hyderabad

7:00 pm: 7v7 match at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium featuring Messi and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy

The evening will also include a musical concert celebrating Messi

• December 14, Mumbai

3:30 pm: Participation in the Padel Cup at the Cricket Club of India

4:00 pm: Celebrity football match

5:00 pm: Event at Wankhede Stadium followed by a charity fashion show

• December 15, New Delhi

Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi

1:30 pm: Event at Arun Jaitley Stadium, including the felicitation of Minerva Academy players

• Ticket Price

The tickets for Messi’s GOAT Tour are being sold on the District app. Ticket prices start at around Rs 4,500 in most cities. However, the tickets for the Mumbai leg start from Rs 8,250.

Messi’s India visit, his first since 2011, when he played a friendly for Argentina against Venezuela in Kolkata, received its final seal of approval on August 15.

Dutta had met Messi’s father, who is also his agent, before securing the deal, and then held a 45-minute meeting with the football legend at his home on February 28. (NDTV Sports)

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