Chess outsiders triumph at World Cup in Goa and battle for Candidates spots

Jessie Diggins, the most decorated American cross-country skier, has announced her retirement at the end of the season. As the world’s No. 1 ranked skier, she will compete in her fourth Olympics at Milano-Cortina and finish her career at the World Cup finals in Lake Placid. Diggins has achieved three overall World Cup titles, three distance globes, and four Olympic medals, significantly impacting the sport in the US.

The MLS has announced its 2026 schedule, featuring a significant reshaping of the calendar to accommodate the longest World Cup hiatus in league history. The season will kick off with a high-profile match featuring Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at the L.A. Coliseum, highlighting the league's efforts to maintain fan engagement during the extended break.

Italy's national football team has a chance to qualify for the World Cup through UEFA qualifying playoffs scheduled for March. Four European teams will secure their spots in the tournament, and Italy must navigate through crucial matches to achieve this goal.

Lane Kiffin's decision regarding his coaching future is a significant topic in college football, with interest from Ole Miss, LSU, and Florida. Kiffin has denied reports of receiving an ultimatum from Ole Miss, where he currently leads a successful team with a 10-1 record. His potential departure raises questions about the implications for Ole Miss and the College Football Playoff.

Scotland has qualified for the men's football World Cup for the first time in 28 years after defeating Denmark 4-2 at Hampden Park. Fans who attended the match or watched from afar shared their reactions to this historic achievement, marking a significant moment in Scottish football.