Category: Sports

MIAMI: Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 after being denied entry into the United States of America (USA), ending what would have been a historic appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

Artan had been selected among the match officials for the World Cup and was set to become the first referee from Somalia to officiate at the prestigious event.

However, his participation was brought to an abrupt halt after US authorities refused him admission despite him holding a valid visa.

According to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Artan arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday but was found inadmissible following a vetting process.

The agency confirmed the decision in a statement on Monday but did not disclose the specific reasons behind it.

The development has sparked fresh debate over US immigration policies ahead of the World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Concerns had previously been raised regarding travel restrictions affecting citizens from several countries, including Somalia.

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Following discussions with American authorities, FIFA confirmed that Artan would not be able to take part in the tournament.

“FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States,” the governing body said in a statement.

“FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present.

“In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”

Artan is regarded as one of Somalia’s most accomplished football officials and had earned widespread recognition for becoming the first referee from the East African nation to receive a World Cup appointment.

His absence represents a significant disappointment both personally and for Somali football, which viewed his selection as a landmark achievement on the global stage.

At the time of reporting, Somalia’s embassy in Washington had not publicly commented on the matter.

READ: Brazil provide update on Neymar’s fitness ahead of World Cup 2026

RIO DE JANEIRO: Brazil have received an encouraging update on the fitness of star forward Neymar Jr. ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirming that the veteran attacker is making positive progress in his recovery from a calf injury.

Neymar has been sidelined since suffering a grade-two muscle tear last month, an injury that was initially expected to keep him out of action for up to three weeks.

With Brazil’s World Cup campaign fast approaching, concerns had grown over whether the country’s all-time leading goalscorer would be fit in time for the tournament.

However, a follow-up medical examination conducted earlier this week produced encouraging results. In a brief statement, the CBF said the latest scan showed the 34-year-old’s rehabilitation remains on schedule.

“The exam showed good progress in his treatment, within expected parameters,” the CBF said. “He will continue the recovery and physical preparation process planned by the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.”

Neymar has already missed Brazil’s two warm-up fixtures before the World Cup, including their emphatic 6-2 victory over Panama and a 2-1 win over Egypt.

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Despite the positive update, his availability for Brazil’s opening Group C fixture against Morocco on June 13 remains uncertain.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player has endured a difficult period due to injuries in recent years.

In October 2023, he suffered a serious knee injury while representing Brazil against Uruguay, rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee.

After returning to Brazilian football with Santos in early 2025, Neymar has continued battling fitness setbacks but remains determined to feature on the biggest stage once again.

With 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, Neymar is the nation’s all-time leading scorer and is aiming to play in his fourth FIFA World Cup, having previously featured in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions.

READ: Ben Stokes facing uncertain future as England captain after nightclub incident

Ben Stokes’ position as England cricket captain was in jeopardy on Monday after officials announced he was being investigated for a nightclub incident reportedly involving a Saracens rugby player.

Stokes and team-mate Gus Atkinson are facing a probe by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for breaking team rules in the early hours of Monday morning following England’s win in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.

It is the latest controversy concerning the England team following a tour of Australia, where the side faced allegations of a drinking culture during a 4-1 Ashes series loss concluded in January.

If Stokes is stripped of the captaincy, vice-captain Harry Brook, already the skipper of England’s white-ball teams, could lead the hosts in next week’s second Test across London at the Oval.

This would represent a remarkable reversal for Brook, who was fined and censured for late-night drinking and clashing with a nightclub bouncer before captaining England in a one-day international in Wellington in October.

“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand,” the governing body said in a statement issued Monday.

“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.

“We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.”

Britain’s Daily Telegraph reported players from Saracens, who compete in English rugby union’s top-flight Prem, were also present for the London club’s end-of-season party.

Saracens subsequently issued a statement confirming an academy player had been involved in an incident in the early hours of Monday.

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“We are aware of an incident involving an academy player connected to Saracens,” it said.

“The club is currently establishing the full facts and is in contact with the relevant authorities and individuals involved. Once this process is complete, the matter will be reviewed and addressed appropriately. We will make no further comment at this time.”

Stokes led England as they thrashed New Zealand by 115 runs on Sunday with more than a day to spare in their first Test match since their Ashes humiliation, Surrey paceman Atkinson helping finish things off with a second-innings haul of 5-30.

Brook’s clash in Wellington led England to impose a midnight curfew on all players and staff, which is understood to still be in place.

During the Australia tour, the England squad’s conduct during a mid-series break in the coastal town of Noosa came under particular scrutiny, with a video of opening batsman Ben Duckett in an apparent state of intoxication posted on social media.

England director of cricket Rob Key, who investigated the squad’s behaviour in Noosa, denied the team had a drinking culture, as did head coach Brendon McCullum.

Following the conclusion of the Ashes, details of the incident involving Brook in October were revealed. Brook claimed to have been alone at the nightclub in Wellington, only for it to emerge he was alongside team-mates Jacob Bethell and Josh Tongue.

The midnight curfew was first imposed for England’s white-ball tour of Sri Lanka in January and the T20 World Cup that followed, both when Brook was captain.

In 2017, Ben Stokes was involved in an incident outside a nightclub in Bristol, southwest England, that led to him being charged with affray.

He subsequently missed the Ashes tour of 2017/18 before he was found not guilty of the charge following a trial at Bristol Crown Court in August 2018.

READ: England face selection dilemma over Jofra Archer return

Roger Federer will play in a US Open one-night exhibition event that also includes long-time rivals Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, and Andy Roddick, the US Tennis Association said on Monday.

The 44-year-old retired Swiss superstar, who won five of his 20 Grand Slam singles titles in New York, will play in “Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York” on August 25 at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Federer last played in the US Open in 2019, reaching the quarter-finals. He won at Flushing Meadows from 2004 through 2008, the only man or woman to capture five consecutive singles titles on the New York hardcourts.

“The US Open has always been one of the most special tournaments for me,” Federer said in a statement.

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“So many unforgettable moments of my career happened in New York, and Arthur Ashe Stadium is a place that means a great deal to me.

“I’ve missed being part of that atmosphere and feeling the incredible energy that the fans bring every year. To return to Arthur Ashe and share the evening with Andy, Andre and John makes it even more meaningful.

“I’m looking forward to celebrating those memories, seeing the fans again, and enjoying a very special night together.”

The event comes four days before Federer will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island.

READ: Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber ruled out of World Cup 2026

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has been replaced in the Netherlands squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 by Sunderland’s Lutsharel Geertruida, the Dutch football federation (KNVB) announced on Monday.

Premier League winner Timber, 24, has suffered a groin issue to add to Ronald Koeman’s injury list before their final pre-tournament friendly against Uzbekistan on Monday.

Attacker Xavi Simons, as well as centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Stefan de Vrij, have already been ruled out of the tournament.

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“In consultation with the medical staff, it has therefore been decided that Timber will leave the national team’s pre-camp in New York after the game against Uzbekistan,” the KNVB said.

“Ronald Koeman has called up Lutsharel Geertruida as Timber’s replacement,” it added.

Koeman’s side begin their campaign against Japan on Sunday before facing Sweden and Tunisia in Group F.

Netherlands squad for FIFA World Cup 2026

Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland).

Defenders: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton), Nathan Ake (Man City), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Lutsharel Geertruida (Sunderland).

Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Tijjani Reijnders (Man City), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Mats Weiffer (Brighton).

Forwards: Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Donyell Malen (Roma), Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Noa Lang (Galatasaray/Napoli), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Wout Weghorst (Ajax), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham).

Manager: Ronald Koeman

READ: Olivier Giroud pens one-year Lille contract extension

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France’s record goalscorer Olivier Giroud has extended his contract with Ligue 1 outfit Lille by one season, the club announced on Monday.

The 39-year-old former Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan striker scored 57 goals in 137 games for France during a 13-year international career.

“I identify with Lille’s vision, a club with values I share, one that works hard and stands out from the rest through its approach and results,” 2018 World Cup winner Giroud said in a statement.

“I always want more, and I’m determined to keep going and do even better this year.”

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Giroud joined Lille last season and scored decisive goals including four in the Europa League.

Lille finished the season third qualifying for the Champions League.

His leadership was regularly praised by coach Bruno Genesio who has been replaced by Italian Davide Ancelotti, son of Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.

“I don’t know Davide Ancelotti personally, but the fact that he’s a young coach is great,” Giroud said.

“He’s a coach with fresh ideas. I’m convinced he has a lot to offer the club, and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Giroud’s goal-scoring record with France could soon be overtaken by Kylian Mbappe who has 56 goals.

READ: Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson under investigation for ‘nightclub incident’

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for breaching the code of conduct after the first Test against New Zealand.

The Three Lions outplayed New Zealand by 115 runs in the series opener on a topsy-turvy Lord’s surface that drew criticism from former cricketers.

ECB has confirmed an incident in a press release statement regarding Stokes and Atkinson.

“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand,” the board said.

“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place,” it added.

England’s governing body also hinted at a possible change in the second Test lineup, with further updates to be provided in due course.

“We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.

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“The Cricket Regulator has been informed and we will provide a further update when possible,” it concluded.

For those unaware, this was the first Test match since the Ashes debacle for England. The tour down under was also marked by scrutiny of England’s off-field behavior, resulting in a fine on white-ball captain Harry Brook for misconduct in New Zealand.

Brook was punched ahead of the Ashes by a nightclub bouncer in Wellington before the ODI against New Zealand.

Meanwhile, Stokes was previously involved in a late-night incident outside a nightclub in Bristol following an ODI match against the West Indies in 2017. A fight broke out involving Stokes and another man, leaving the former with a hand injury.

He was later arrested and charged, but the prosecution service dropped the charges, allowing him to continue his international career.

READ: Pakistan red-ball camp kicks off at NCA Lahore

LAHORE: Pakistan cricket team’s red-ball camp ahead of the West Indies tour began at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Monday.

The red-ball camp will continue until July 10, with preparations for the West Indies tour beginning around July 15.

On the camp’s opening day, Director of High Performance Aqib Javed addressed the players and outlined the training camp’s goals alongside red-ball coach Sarfaraz Ahmed.

He emphasized the importance of structured preparation and outlined the goals set for the camp, where players will undergo intensive work on both fitness and cricketing skills.

A day earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) invited 49 players to a preparatory camp to manage players’ fitness and skills before international and domestic assignments. The players include 22 red and 27 white-ball cricketers.

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According to the board, the camps are designed to provide players with adequate preparation time for forthcoming international and domestic events. During the training period, players will fine-tune their skills under the supervision of national and NCA coaches, including one-on-one sessions.

The white-ball camp will commence on Monday, 15 June, and will run until 18 September.

For the unversed, Pakistan is currently enjoying a break from international cricket, with their next assignment, a two-match Test series against the West Indies, scheduled for July 25–29 and August 2–6 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Following the West Indies tour, Pakistan will travel to England for three Test matches, scheduled in August.

22 Red-Ball Camp Players:

Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Abrar Ahmed, Ali Usman, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Imam ul Haq, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Obaid Shah, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saqib Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shahnawaz Dahani, Shahzad Gul and Shan Masood

27 White-Ball Camp Players :

Abdul Samad, Abdul Subhan, Ahmed Daniyal, Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Arafat Minhas, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Farhan Yousaf, Haider Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Khawaja Muhammad Nafay, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Razaullah, Rohail Nazir, Saad Baig, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Sameer Minhas, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shamyl Hussain, Sufyan Moqim and Usman Khan

READ: Shaheen Afridi set to miss Pakistan’s upcoming Test assignments: reports

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi is expected to be excluded from the national team’s upcoming red-ball assignments.

A day earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a training camp for both red and white-ball cricket. The white-ball camp runs until September 18, while the red-ball camp starts today and continues until July 10, with preparations for the West Indies tour beginning around July 15.

Shaheen was named in the white-ball camp but not in the red-ball one. According to reports, selectors plan to exclude Shaheen from the West Indies and England tours. Another separate report states he has been advised to play more first-class cricket, or else selectors may seek other options.

Shaheen, also Pakistan’s ODI captain, was part of the recent Bangladesh tour squad, where he took 3/113 and 2/54 in the first Test. His speed during the tour drew criticism, as he struggled to consistently exceed 140 kph, often operating around 134 kph.

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Overall, he has taken 126 wickets at an average of 28.13 in 34 Tests since making his debut im

Pakistan is currently enjoying a break from international cricket, with their next assignment, a two-match Test series against the West Indies, scheduled for July 25–29 and August 2–6 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Following the West Indies tour, Pakistan will travel to England for three Test matches.

Pakistan Red-Ball Camp Squad (22 players):

Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Abrar Ahmed, Ali Usman, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Obaid Shah, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saqib Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shahnawaz Dahani, Shahzad Gul and Shan Masood.

READ: England face selection dilemma over Jofra Archer return

Teenage Barcelona star Lamine Yamal and fellow winger Nico Williams will be available for Spain’s World Cup opener against debutants Cape Verde on June 15, coach Luis de la Fuente said on Sunday.

Yamal and Athletic Bilbao’s Williams both missed the end of the club season with hamstring injuries and their imminent returns will be a big boost to the European champions.

Osasuna winger Victor Munoz is also expected to be fit for Spain’s opening game in Atlanta, although none travelled to Mexico for Monday’s friendly with Peru and instead remained at their training camp in the United States.

“We regret that they are not here with us, but the medical and physical conditioning staff advised them to stay there,” De la Fuente said.

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“All three should be available for the next match… they are progressing well in their recovery and are doing very well.”

Spain will be one of the favourites at the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States, and the 18-year-old Yamal could be one of the star performers.

After facing Cape Verde, Spain will play Saudi Arabia in Atlanta before finishing their group stage campaign against Uruguay in Guadalajara.

READ: FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete squad lists for all 48 nations