Ibrahim Maza, born in Berlin with German, Algerian, and Vietnamese roots, has chosen to represent Algeria internationally despite playing youth football for Germany. The 19-year-old Bayer Leverkusen star is excelling in his debut Bundesliga season and was a standout player at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Georgina Rodriguez, partner of Cristiano Ronaldo, has been announced as the new brand ambassador for Italian fashion brand Calzedonia. The announcement was made via social media, showcasing her modelling swimwear on billboards worldwide. This partnership highlights Rodriguez's growing independent career beyond her association with Ronaldo.
Asian champions Qatar face Switzerland in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match in San Francisco. Qatar aims to improve on their 2022 performance, while Switzerland seeks their best World Cup showing.
Thousands of Australians are descending on Vancouver for the World Cup, drawn by the city's resemblance to home and a significant expat community. From fan festivals to local businesses, Australian culture is making its mark on the Canadian city.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has made history with three separate opening ceremonies held in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, reflecting the tournament's unprecedented joint hosting and expanded format. Mexico hosted the official opening at the historic Estadio Azteca, while Canada and the US also held unique celebrations in Toronto and Los Angeles respectively, marking a new era for the global football event.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico began on June 11 (JST June 12). South Korea secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Czech Republic in their opening match, with J.League player Kim Seung-gyu playing a crucial role. Seven J.League players are participating in the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will utilize 16 state-of-the-art stadiums across North America, including historic and modern venues in the US, Canada, and Mexico, despite ticketing controversies.
Fox is facing backlash from US viewers for airing full-screen advertisements during FIFA World Cup hydration breaks. Fans on social media expressed frustration over missing live action, with some noting that such breaks are common in US sports broadcasting.
The 2026 World Cup in North America faces significant weather challenges, including thunderstorms, extreme heat, humidity, and tropical storms across its 16 host cities. Mexico City's altitude also presents unique conditions for players.
The 2026 World Cup in North America faces significant weather challenges, including thunderstorms, extreme heat, humidity, and potential tropical storms across its 16 host cities. Altitude in Mexico City also poses a risk, raising concerns about competitive fairness.
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues, Canada and the US kick off their campaigns. The tournament faces issues like record red cards, player retirements, and warnings for influencers, alongside discussions on ticket prices and environmental impact.
The North America World Cup, starting June 11 (June 12 Japan time), will feature new rules aimed at reducing time-wasting and increasing the pace of play. Key changes include a 5-second limit for throw-ins and goal kicks, and a 10-second limit for player substitutions.
Germany's national football team has qualified for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, USA, and Mexico. The squad, led by Julian Nagelsmann, includes veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and aims to overcome recent group stage failures.
Waymo, Alphabet's robotaxi service, is preparing to serve FIFA World Cup attendees at six North American venues. Despite recent operational challenges, the company sees the event as a high-visibility opportunity to showcase its driverless technology.
The 2026 World Cup faces unprecedented challenges from US politics, including Trump's "MAGA" agenda and immigration policies, Iran's participation, and severe heat waves due to climate change, impacting FIFA's ability to manage the event.
US President Donald Trump stated the US might not renew its free trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, citing trade deficits. The pact requires renewal by July 1 or a 10-year exit process.
Experts predict Spain and France for the World Cup final, with France favored to win. Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane are top contenders for the Golden Boot, while Ecuador and Japan are tipped as surprise teams. Lamine Yamal and Antonio Nusa are highlighted as potential breakthrough stars.
Host cities across North America say they are fully prepared as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest ever, begins on Thursday with Mexico facing South Africa. While officials highlight security, transport and fan readiness, controversies over US visa restrictions, exorbitant ticket prices and the barring of Somali referee Omar Artan have emerged.
A record 8 MENA teams compete in World Cup 2026. Al Jazeera analyzes each team's chances, strengths, weaknesses, and predicts their tournament outcome.
Victor Montagliani, Concacaf president and Fifa vice president, believes the World Cup will spark a cultural revolution in North American football, potentially making MLS rival the Premier League, while defending the tournament's pricing strategy and discussing future expansion plans.
Robin Pendery, a seasonal park ranger from Enumclaw, Washington, died after falling into a crevasse on Mount McKinley during a climbing patrol. This incident follows a recent tragedy where three Latvian climbers died on the same peak.
Chinese electric vehicles face steep barriers in the U.S., but analysts say partnerships with U.S. automakers and production in Mexico, Canada or the U.S. could eventually open the market. Political resistance, tariffs and software rules remain significant obstacles.
The 2026 World Cup features top contenders like Mbappé, Kane, Haaland, and Messi for the Golden Boot. History shows surprise winners like Schillaci and Salenko, with the tournament expanding to 48 teams.
Marco Materazzi, a 2006 World Cup winner, has criticized Italy's football infrastructure, stating the country lags behind major rivals due to a lack of forward planning. He highlighted Morocco's advanced facilities as an example of future-oriented development.
