Zohran Mamdani’s Fifa fight is a blueprint for the left to re-engage with sports | Leander Schaerlaeckens

The 2026 World Cup is facing significant backlash as FIFA's preparations in Mexico are causing distress among local communities. Residents near the iconic Azteca Stadium are protesting the destruction of 5,000 square meters of forest, highlighting the environmental impact and the threats to their homes. This situation matters because it raises important questions about the balance between large-scale sporting events and the rights of local residents, as well as the environmental consequences of such developments.

The upcoming FIFA Arab Cup in Qatar offers a significant opportunity for Tunisia's football players to showcase their talents and potentially secure a place in the senior national squad. Scheduled from December 1 to 18, 2025, this tournament, while often viewed as a secondary competition, can be a crucial platform for players to impress selectors and elevate their careers. This event not only highlights the growing importance of regional competitions but also fosters a sense of pride and unity among Tunisian fans as they support their team on an international stage.

Last night, Lionel Messi dazzled fans as he led Inter Miami to a stunning 4-0 victory over New York City in the MLS. Scoring two goals, Messi showcased his incredible talent and solidified his impact on the team. This win is significant not just for the points but also for the excitement it brings to the league, highlighting Messi's role in elevating soccer in the U.S.

Last night, Lionel Messi dazzled fans as he led Inter Miami to a stunning 4-0 victory over New York City in the MLS. Scoring two goals, Messi showcased his incredible talent and solidified his impact on the team. This win is significant not just for the points but also for the excitement it brings to the league, highlighting Messi's role in elevating soccer in the U.S.

A team of Afghan refugees is set to participate in the upcoming 'FIFA Unites: Women's Series' soccer tournament this October. This event is significant as it not only showcases the talent and resilience of these women but also highlights the importance of inclusivity in sports. Their participation serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of sports to unite and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds.

FIFA is exploring the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams for its 100th anniversary in 2030, following the upcoming increase to 48 teams next summer. This potential expansion could enhance global participation and excitement, making the tournament even more inclusive and competitive. As the world gears up for this historic event, fans and nations alike are eager to see how this ambitious plan unfolds.

FIFA is exploring the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams for its 100th anniversary in 2030, following the upcoming increase to 48 teams next summer. This potential expansion could enhance global participation and excitement, making the tournament even more inclusive and competitive. As the world eagerly anticipates this historic event, the idea of a larger World Cup reflects FIFA's commitment to growing the sport and engaging fans worldwide.

Fifa has confirmed that it will not expand the men's World Cup to 64 teams for the 2030 centenary edition, despite discussions led by president Gianni Infantino with South American leaders in New York. This decision is significant as it reflects the organization's stance on maintaining the traditional format of the tournament, which has been a topic of debate among football fans and officials alike.

The Afghanistan national women's soccer team, composed of refugee players, is set to play its first official games at a FIFA-backed tournament in Dubai next month. This event is significant as it marks a crucial step for these athletes, who are currently unable to officially represent Afghanistan in World Cup qualifying. Competing against teams from the United Arab Emirates, Chad, and Libya from October 23-29, this tournament not only showcases their talent but also highlights the resilience and determination of Afghan women in sports.

The 24th edition of the FIFA U20 World Cup is set to kick off in Chile from September 27 to October 19, featuring 24 nations. This tournament is significant as it showcases young football talent from around the globe, providing clubs with a platform to scout potential stars for the future. The clubs with the most players participating highlight their commitment to developing youth talent, which is crucial for the sport's growth.

In a recent press conference in New York City, Gervonta 'Tank' Davis made it clear that he is unfazed by the opinions of fair-weather fans and gossipers. As he prepares for his upcoming fight against Jake Paul, Davis emphasized his focus on the sport rather than external distractions. This attitude not only showcases his confidence but also highlights the growing tension and excitement surrounding the fight, making it a significant event in the boxing world.

In a recent press conference in New York City, Gervonta 'Tank' Davis made it clear that he is unfazed by the opinions of fair-weather fans and gossipers. As he prepares for his upcoming fight against Jake Paul, Davis emphasized his focus on the sport rather than external distractions. This attitude not only showcases his confidence but also highlights the growing tension and excitement surrounding the fight, making it a significant event in the boxing world.

James Franklin, the head coach of Penn State, recently made headlines by criticizing the Big Noon Saturday time slot for their upcoming game against UCLA, which coincides with the school's traditional white out event. This commentary highlights the ongoing tension between college football scheduling and fan experiences, particularly as schools strive to create memorable atmospheres for their supporters. Franklin's remarks resonate with many fans who value the unique traditions of college football, making this a noteworthy discussion in the sports community.

Texas Tech's head coach Joey McGuire has provided an encouraging update on quarterback Behren Morton's injury, which is great news for the team as they continue to perform well in college football. Morton has been a key player this season, bringing valuable experience to the field. His recovery is crucial for the Red Raiders as they aim to maintain their strong performance and compete for top rankings.

Brazilian football legend Rivaldo has expressed his support for Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. following his recent disappointment at the 2024 Ballon d'Or. Rivaldo acknowledged that Vinicius's performance dipped after not receiving the prestigious award, but he believes the young star has the talent and resilience to bounce back. This endorsement is significant as it highlights the importance of mental strength in sports and shows that even top players face challenges. Vinicius's ability to recover could inspire many young athletes.

Harry Maguire's future at Manchester United is currently uncertain, as it may depend on a crucial condition that has yet to be revealed. This situation is significant for both the player and the club, as it could impact team dynamics and performance moving forward.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a historic NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park in Dublin, marking the league's first regular-season match in Ireland. Both teams are currently 2-1, with the Steelers coming off a recent win against the Patriots. This matchup is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the NFL's expansion into international markets, showcasing American football's growing popularity abroad.

Fans are buzzing with excitement as they anticipate the real Daniel Jones to finally make his mark in the NFL. Unlike previous seasons, there's a sense that this time could be different, hinting at a potential turnaround for the quarterback. This matters because it could change the dynamics of the team and the league, sparking renewed hope among supporters.