MOSES ITAUMA AND FILIP HRGOVIC TO FIGHT FOR VACANT IBF TITLE, FRANK SANCHEZ PAID TO STEP ASIDE

Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic square up on June 22, 2026

Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic, set to collide on August 29 at London, England’s O2 Arena, will now be fighting for the vacant IBF heavyweight title.

No. 3-ranked Itauma, 14-0 (12 KOs), had been ordered by the sanctioning body to face leading IBF contender, Frank Sanchez, after the bout with Hrgovic had already been signed and announced. And with the Croatian rated fourth by the organization, it has been agreed that they can instead do battle for the belt on the condition that the winner meets Sanchez in their first defense.

“We paid [Sanchez] some money,” promoter Frank Warren told the BBC. “We said whoever wins the fight, you’re not losing out and you’ll get the opportunity to fight for the title against the winner.”

The 34-year-old Cuban, 26-1 (19 KOs), had achieved mandatory status with the IBF by knocking out Richard Torrez Jnr in two rounds in May.

Hrgovic, 20-1 (15 KOs), is riding a three-fight win streak – beating Joe Joyce, David Adeleye and Dave Allen – and is regarded as 21-year-old Itauma’s toughest test to date.

Presuming Itauma-Hrgovic isn’t a draw, it means that Warren’s Queensberry Promotions – who handle both Itauma and Hrgovic, as well as WBC boss Agit Kabayel and WBO beltholder Daniel Dubois – will promote three of the four heavyweight beltholders come the end of the month. The WBA titlist, Murat Gassiev, had previously been expected to face Itauma later in the year.

"A lot of people have high expectations of [Itauma] as I have, by the way," Warren said. "We signed him when he was 16. He was an amateur. We sponsored him, and he turned professional with us.

"And he's been amazing and sort of taken the world by storm.”

The influx of heavyweight beltholders can of course be explained by Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to relinquish his three titles in June. Though the 39-year-old is plotting one last fight – likely against Deontay Wilder – the Ukrainian’s days of fighting elite opposition are over, it seems.

Kabayel and Gassiev saw their statuses rise by virtue of Usyk’s decision to step down. Dubois defeated Fabio Wardley to claim his belt after Wardley was handed the championship when Usyk gave up the WBO title last year.

The winner of Itauma-Hrgovic will be the first to claim one of Usyk’s old belts in the ring.

- BoxingScene 

OFFICIAL: MARC-ANDRÉ TER STEGEN JOINS AJAX ON LOAN FROM BARCELONA

 

Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Dutch giants Ajax confirmed on Tuesday the signing of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen on a season-long loan from Barcelona.

Our new number 1.

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) August 4, 2026

Ter Stegen was a request from new Ajax manager Míchel who worked briefly with the German at Girona at the end of last season before Ter Stegen suffered a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the World Cup.

The 34-year-old says he wants to help “bring Ajax back to where it belongs”, and will be hoping to finally play a full season of football again after dealing with multiple major injuries in the last two years.

According to the latest reporting, Barça will cover 90% of Ter Stegen’s salary during his time at Ajax but will be hoping that Ter Stegen’s performances over a full season can convince Ajax or another club to sign him on a permanent deal next summer.

Good luck at Ajax, MATS!

- Renato Gonçalves

MATHIEU VAN DER POEL SHOWS OFF BMX SKILLS ONE WEEK AFTER ICONIC PARIS VICTORY

Mathieu van der Poel probably needed some time to recover after his spectacular victory on the Champs-Élysées in Paris at the end of the Tour de France. The Alpecin-Premier Tech rider was the strongest in a thrilling final stage and has since been recharging his batteries. He did so alongside his regular training partner and close friend Freddy Ovett.

What a Tour de France Van der Poel had. A possible yellow jersey appeared to be waiting for him in Barcelona, but after Alpecin-Premier Tech finished seventh in the team time trial, everyone knew that taking the race lead would be difficult. He was then dropped during the following road stage on Montjuïc, but gained his revenge in Ussel, where he won Stage 9 in magnificent fashion.

That, however, was only the tip of the iceberg. Van der Poel was rarely at the centre of the action during the remainder of the Tour. He helped Jasper Philipsen win Stage 17 in Voiron, before producing an extraordinary performance of his own in Paris. Van der Poel followed Tadej Pogačar on Montmartre, committed fully to the move alongside the yellow jersey, dropped the Slovenian and narrowly held off the peloton at the finish on the Champs-Élysées.

Van der Poel has fun on the BMX track

The victory was another addition to the Dutchman’s list of iconic successes. He has already won races including the Amstel Gold Race, Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix in memorable fashion, while his victory at the 2023 Road World Championships in Glasgow also became an unforgettable moment. His effort in Paris took a huge amount out of him, however, making some rest essential. Little had been heard from the Alpecin-Premier Tech superstar during the week following his Tour triumph.

So, what had he been doing? Van der Poel had returned to Spain to meet up with his regular training partner. Australian rider Freddy Ovett has trained alongside Van der Poel for years, and the pair were back out together once again. It was unlikely to have been their most demanding training ride, as they also visited a BMX track. “Don’t forget why you started,” Ovett wrote on Instagram. That is something Van der Poel never appears to forget: cycling should also be fun. On the track, the Dutchman enjoyed carving through the corners, performing wheelies and launching himself over the jumps.

Van der Poel’s next competitive appearance will not be on the road, but on a mountain bike. After the Tour, he shifted his focus to the wider tires and will compete in a World Cup race in Les Gets before travelling to the Mountain Bike World Championships in Val di Sole, where the elite events conclude on August 30. Van der Poel also plans to compete at the Road World Championships in Montréal, Canada, which run until September 27.

- David Bavin-Hobbs

FIFA MEME 😂

 

HISTORY MADE FOR NORWAY 🇳🇴 🚴‍♀️ 🥇 | TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES 2026

A landmark moment at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift as Sigrid Haugset celebrates her first stage victory and claims the Yellow Jersey for the first time. It's a proud day for Norway, Uno-X Mobility, and cycling fans everywhere.

This unforgettable performance proves that determination, teamwork, and courage can lead to the biggest victories on cycling's grandest stage. 

#TourDeFranceFemmes #SigridHaugset #YellowJersey #UnoXMobility #Norway

MARCUS RASHFORD IN TALKS OVER £40M MAN UTD TRANSFER EXIT

Marcus Rashford looks set to leave Manchester United (Picture: Getty)

Marcus Rashford is in talks to complete a permanent transfer away from Manchester United after his dream move to Barcelona fell through.

Rashford, who featured for England at this summer’s World Cup, hoped to earn a permanent move to Barca after a largely impressive loan spell.

The 28-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists to help Barcelona retain their La Liga title and go deep in the Champions League.

Barca boss Hansi Flick appeared keen for Rashford to stay at the Nou Camp but a deal always looked unlikely after the Spanish champions spent £70m to sign his England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Rashford is therefore due to return to Old Trafford after a break following his World Cup commitments but Manchester United are not planning to reintegrate him into Michael Carrick’s squad.

As a result Rashford, who is available to sign for £40m for clubs other than Manchester City and Liverpool, is searching for a new club.

According to The Sun, Rashford is in talks with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, who are ready to ‘break the back’ to secure his signature.

Rashford has likely played his last game for Man Utd (Picture: Getty)

Fenerbahce are desperate to reel in rivals Galatasaray next season and believe Rashford can help them do just that.

Rashford is in talks with Fenerbahce after being recommended a move to Arsenal by the likes of Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand and David Seaman.

Discussing Arsenal’s reported interest in Rashford during the World Cup, Manchester United legend Ferdinand said: ‘I would take Rashford. For £40m, I’m sweeping Rashford off his feet.’

Rashford wanted to stay at Barcelona (Picture: Getty)

Ex-Old Trafford midfielder Paul Scholes added: ‘That would be a great move, a great move for both parties. I think Arsenal would be a great move for him and the club.’

Mikel Arteta is keen to welcome a new winger to the Emirates Stadium but his current focus is on Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior.

Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Flick has discussed the club’s decision not to sign Rashford, insisting he will ‘miss’ the England star.

‘You don’t know what happens with players who are on loan – our situation is not easy for that,’ Flick said last week.

- Louis Sealey

UFC LEGEND SAYS IAN MACHADO GARY CAN BEAT ISLAM MAKHACHEV

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UFC legend Charles Oliveira believes that Ian Machado has what it takes to defeat Islam Makhachev at UFC 330.

Makhachev is the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in MMA and is a heavy favorite to defeat Machado Garry when the two meet on August 15 in the main event of UFC 330.

But according to Oliveira, who has trained with Garry at Chute Boxe Diego Lima ahead of the fight, the Irishman has what it takes to upset the apple cart and dethrone Makhachev and win the UFC welterweight title.

Charles Oliveira Says Ian Machado Garry Can Beat Islam Makhachev

Speaking to MMAFighting.com, Oliveira explained why he thinks Machado Garry is a live dog against Makhachev.

“He knew he was next in line for the title. And he’s been completely focused on this matchup with Makhachev ever since,” Oliveira said.

“Ian truly has a very good chance of beating Makhachev. I’m not saying that because he’s my friend or because he’s part of our team, but because of what we’ve seen and how he’s been training. We know there’s an incredibly tough guy on the other side, someone who deserves all the respect in the world. He’s humble when promoting a fight, but he’s extremely difficult to deal with inside the cage. He’s outstanding, a really tough fighter. But honestly, in my opinion, Ian has a great chance of winning, because he’s such a strategic fighter and never abandons the game plan.”

Charles Oliveira Explains What Makes Ian Machado Garry Different

According to Oliveira — who it’s worth noting was finished by Makhachev when the two met in 2022 — what makes Machado Garry different from other fighters who have tried to dethrone Makhachev is his high fight IQ.

“The difference with Ian is his intelligence. He never strays from the strategy. Whatever the team plans together with him for the fight, he’ll follow it from start to finish. That’s what sets Ian apart. Once he commits the game plan to his mind, he’ll stick with it all the way through. He won’t change it. That’s the difference Ian brings into the game, into the cage. That’s what makes us happy, because he never drifts away from the plan or loses focus. He gives himself to it 100%. He sticks to the strategy no matter what’s happening, so I think it’s going to be a great fight,” Oliveira said.

Though Oliveira believes that Machado Garry has a good chance to win the fight, the betting odds certainly do not paint the same picture, as Machado Garry is a +260 betting underdog, with Makhachev as a -320 favorite to defend the UFC welterweight title.

We’ll soon find out if what Oliveira is saying is true when Makhachev and Machado Garry lock horns at UFC 330, which takes place on August 15. At that point, we’ll find out if Machado Garry is truly up for the test and can defeat one of the best fighters to ever compete in the UFC, or if the champ is just too good and basically unbeatable in the UFC.

- Adam Martin

OBA FEMI'S WWE RISE CONTINUES AS NEW FEUD TEASED ON RAW AFTER BROCK LESNAR WIN

Photo credit: WWE

Oba Femi’s rise in WWE reached another big moment on RAW. After defeating Brock Lesnar in a brutal Hell in a Cell match at SummerSlam, Femi addressed the WWE Universe during the August 3 episode of RAW. However, his celebration was cut short when he came face-to-face with Bron Breakker.

The two stared each other down from across the arena, immediately teasing a possible showdown between two of WWE’s most powerful young stars.

Oba Femi’s WWE future takes shape after his victory against Brock Lesnar

During the episode, Femi admitted that he misunderstood Lesnar’s actions after WrestleMania 42. After beating Lesnar cleanly at WrestleMania, Femi initially believed that The Beast attacked him because he was jealous.

However, after their final match at SummerSlam, he believes Lesnar wanted to know if he had made the right decision by choosing Femi as a future face of WWE. After their match, Lesnar and Femi shared an embrace, and The Beast finally called Femi “the future of WWE.”

Femi has accepted that responsibility. Now, he wants to create his own path and help lead WWE into a new era. He also talked about taking down the “old guard” and warned anyone who thinks they can stop him.

It didn’t take long for someone to appear ready to accept that challenge.

As Femi made his way toward the stage, The Vision appeared. Bron Breakker and Femi stared each other down. Austin Theory tried to get Bron Breakker to keep walking, but Breakker suddenly stopped and turned back toward Femi.

The two locked eyes once again, and neither man backed down. Theory eventually convinced Breakker to leave, but the message was already clear.

WWE may be setting up a major feud between Femi and Breakker.

Both men are seen as future stars of the company. Femi has just come off the biggest fight of his career, while Breakker continues to build his reputation as one of WWE’s most dangerous young talents.

There is also another important detail that could throw a wrench in the works. Oba Femi still has a championship opportunity available whenever he decides to use it.

- BIBONSINHA

TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES | STAGE 3 CLASSIFICATION

 

JESSICA PEGULA VS. ALEXANDRA EALA | WASHINGTON DC FINAL

 

WASHINGTON 2026 | FINAL

EX-EAGLES SUPER BOWL CHAMPION LANDS WITH NFC NORTH TEAM

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With plenty of time for NFL teams to examine players to add to their teams, the Philadelphia Eagles have watched one of their former players land on his feet.

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Detroit Lions have signed tight end Nick Muse and released wide receiver Tarik Black. The Lions signed Black just over a month ago.

Nick Muse’s Time With Philadelphia Eagles

Minnesota Vikings tight end Nick Muse (left) and former teammate Abram Smith (right).

While Muse will be remembered more for his three seasons with the Vikings, he also played with the Eagles. He signed with the Eagles’ practice squad less than a month before the team defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX in 2025.

Last year, Muse went into training camp with the Eagles hoping to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. In three preseason games, he had two receptions for 13 yards. He ultimately did not make the team.

There was too much competition at the tight end position with Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra taking the top spots. Cameron Latu ended up being a tight end no one saw coming, taking a spot on the team after his performance on special teams.

Muse would go on to join the Arizona Cardinals‘ practice squad in October before getting released. He then spent most of November and the beginning of December with the Los Angeles Rams‘ practice squad. Muse would finish up on the New York Jets‘ practice squad.

Eagles Pressing Forward With Second Week of Training Camp

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni

The Eagles had a nice short run with Muse on the team as a depth player, but they are pressing forward. They have plenty of tight end questions to answer themselves at training camp.

So far, Dallas Goedert and Johnny Mundt have been taking the top two spots on the depth chart. Rookie second-round pick Eli Stowers isn’t getting many looks, leaving many to wonder what is going on.

Philly has plenty of other top storylines in training camp entering the second week. They have to get the offense addressed after a slow start. The Eagles’ defense, though, is playing lights out, with great pressure from the defensive line.

Things seem to be trending in a good direction for the Eagles so far, with some improvements needed. It will all start with quarterback Jalen Hurts and his receivers. Once they can all get on track, then the offensive line will need to start showing some improvement.

Nothing needs to really change on defense, as they need to continue getting pressure up front. They would like to have Jonathan Greenard back from injury, but that remains to be seen on when he will be back in training camp.

The Eagles would like to get off to a fast start in the second week of training camp, as that will be a storyline to watch.

- Anthony Miller

POGACAR TO RIDE VUELTA A ESPANA FOR GRAND TOUR TREBLE

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Newly crowned five-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar will race in this month's Vuelta a Espana in an attempt to win all three of cycling's Grand Tours.

The Slovenian UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider will be the runaway favourite to win the three-week Grand Tour after becoming the joint most successful Tour de France champion of all time last month, alongside fellow greats Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain.

Pogacar won the 2024 Giro d'Italia by nearly 10 minutes, and would become only the ninth rider to win all three Grand Tours in history should he triumph in Spain.

The 27-year-old finished third at the Tour of Spain as a youngster in 2019.

"I'm excited to say I'm going back to La Vuelta," said Pogacar. "It was my first ever Grand Tour back in 2019 and an amazing experience.

"Spain is a country I love to visit and race in, and I think the time is right to go back.

"The motivation is high to finish off the year in a good way and the Vuelta will be a big target. The team is strong and we hope to do good things."

This year's race begins in Monaco on 22 August and finishes in Granada on 13 September, with 21 stages across three weeks including time trials, sprints, rolling hills and high mountains.

Pogacar has won almost all of the sport's biggest races. In addition to his five Tour titles he has won the Tour of Flanders (three times), Milan-San Remo (once), the Road World Championships (twice), Il Lombardia (five times), Liege-Bastogne-Liege (four times) and the Giro.

He is also expected to try to defend his Road World Championships rainbow jersey in Montreal, Canada, just a week after La Vuelta finishes.

While La Vuelta is considered a main event on cycling's World Tour, the sport's top talents in the modern era will often prioritise the Tour de France at the expense of the Vuelta and the Giro.

Merckx, Anquetil and Hinault (twice) all won La Vuelta during their careers.

Following victory at this year's Tour,

Pogacar beat Belgium's Remco Evenepoel by more than six minutes at this year's Tour de France, and he is expected to win the Vuelta by an even bigger margin.

Famed for his explosive launch and metronomic high pace on stages, he is not showing any signs of fatigue or weakness.

Pogacar has won six of the seven World Tour races he has competed in this year, finishing second at Paris-Roubaix in April in a dramatic dash to the line with Belgium's Wout van Aert.

- Matt Warwick

CHENGDU TO HOST WORLD SQUASH JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS IN 2027

More squash history being made! 🤩

🇨🇳 The World Squash Junior Championships will be hosted by the Chinese Squash Association for the first time!

Chengdu, China, will host the championships at the state-of-the-art new national training base, the Linjiangzhiyuan Training Base, a 73-acre facility boasting 16 all-glass show courts, 6 traditional courts, an apartment complex, hotel and restaurant!

https://tinyurl.com/zf8j2ahh

THE MOUNTAIN TOOK THEM | A TRIBUTE TO THE 10 CLIMBERS WHO DEDICATED THEIR LIVES TO EXPLORING THE WORLD'S HIGHEST PEAKS

 

FiNAL DAY HIGHLIGHTS | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026

 

TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES 2026 | STAGE 2 CLASSIFICATION

 

COWBOYS OWNER JERRY JONES DEFENDS TONY ROMO FOLLOWING ARREST

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If you are counting the people who are still in Tony Romo’s corner following his DUI arrest — and possibly the undoing of his lucrative broadcasting career — put Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones at the front of that group.

Jones came to Romo’s defense following his arrest on July 23 on allegations of driving under the influence in Wisconsin.

Speaking to Fox 4 Dallas-Fort Worth’s Mike Doocy from Cowboys training camp in Oxnard, California, Jones was 1 of the few to stick up for Romo over the last week, and said he’d been in communication with Romo several times since the arrest.

"I’ve been talking to him … I love him, I love what he’s about, I love his character,” Jones told Doocy. “He’s a very, very unique talent, and the real question is, and I don’t even have to ask what the answer is, is do you think Tony Romo knows how to get up when he gets knocked down? He’s had a life of that. And that’s one of his greatest attributes. He can handle adversity and this is something that he will work through.”

Romo was put on indefinite leave by CBS Sports as their lead NFL color commentator following his arrest, with 3-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt taking his spot alongside play-by-play man Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracey Wolfson on the network’s No. 1 NFL coverage team.

“There have been very few players Jerry Jones and family have held in higher regard than Tony Romo,” NFL reporter Ed Werder wrote on his official X account on August 1.

Tony Romo, CBS Sports at Odds Over Contract

Romo signed a 10-year, $180 million contract with CBS Sports in 2020 that 1 television executive told The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand was the “worst contract in media history.”

While earning praise for his acuity and wit on broadcasts before signing the contract, Romo has turned into a liability in the years since.

"CBS clearly does not want the cloud from this story to shade its most important property,” Marchand wrote on July 31. ” … Romo comes across as a very affable guy and many have described him to me over the years as a ‘big kid.’ But he is not known as a hard worker, and it has shown on the air. Prior to his massive new deal, Nantz and Romo were welcoming comparisons to Pat Summerall and John Madden. Since then, the duo has regressed, and Romo often sounded unprepared, saying odd things.”

Tony Romo Defined Era for Cowboys

Romo played for the Cowboys from 2003 to 2016, where he was a 4-time Pro Bowl selection and earned NFL All-Pro honors in 2014.

Romo made the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2003 and became the full-time starter in 2006. In 10 seasons as a starter, Romo led the Cowboys to the playoffs 4 times before a preseason back injury saw him lose his starting job to current Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in 2016.

Romo retired after the season and went directly into the broadcast booth.

In 13 seasons, Romo threw for franchise records of 34,183 yards and 248 touchdowns. He also set NFL records for the most consecutive road games with a touchdown pass (41) and most games in a single season with a passer rating of at least 135.0 (6).

- Tony Adame

HEAVY CRASH MARS TOUR OF DENMARK FINALE AS WOUT VAN AERT AND PEDERSEN CELEBRATE

Rasmus Søjberg Pedersen won the fifth and final stage of the Tour of Denmark. The Decathlon CMA CGM rider represented the Danish national team this week and claimed victory in a bunch sprint on the final day. Wout van Aert successfully defended his leader’s jersey to win the overall classification, although the sprint was overshadowed by a heavy crash.

The fifth and final stage of the Tour of Denmark took the peloton over 126 kilometres from Køge to Rødovre. The flat route presented the sprinters’ teams with an ideal opportunity to control the race and prevent the early breakaway from gaining too much ground. Although several riders attempted to get away, the peloton kept the gaps under control, and a bunch sprint quickly appeared to be the most likely outcome.

The pace was extremely high during the finale. The sprint teams moved their leaders into position, while Van Aert’s place at the top of the overall standings was rarely under threat. The controlled nature of the race kept the Belgian leader out of danger and allowed him to defend his advantage without difficulty. Attention therefore turned mainly to the stage victory, with a fast and closely contested sprint expected to decide the winner.

Unfortunately, a heavy crash occurred on the right-hand side of the peloton in the final left-hand corner. It happened slightly further back, meaning Van Aert and almost all the leading sprinters avoided the incident. Pedersen eventually came out on top in an entertaining battle for the final stage victory. Van Aert did not contest the sprint and crossed the line in 11th place. With three stage victories in five days and the overall title, the Belgian could look back on a highly successful return to racing.

- David Bavin-Hobbs

OYSTERBAY FOOTBALL CLUB DAY | OFC DAY | 1987

 

OFC in 1987. Photo enhanced by Muhidini Issa Michuzi

Oysterbay Football Club, a children's team that had talent and ideas ahead of its time!

The photo was digitally enhanced by Muhidini Issa Michuzi, a prominent photojournalist and blogger from Tanzania.

This picture was taken in 1987 at Oysterbay Primary School with the then Prime Minister of the Republic of Tanzania,  Hon. Joseph Sinde Warioba. 

Hon. Warioba was the patron of  OFC and also he was instrumental in fixing and maintaining the football pitch, making sure the kids had a safe environment to play.

August 2nd is 'OFC Day!'

#OFC #OysterbayFootballClub #Warioba #JosephWarioba #JosephSindeWarioba #OysterbayPrimary #OysterbayPrimarySchool #Daressalaam #Tanzania #

#OysterBay

RISE ABOVE | DIFFERENT TOGETHER | EPISODE O7

 

MEN'S EPIC MILES FINAL | COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026

 

JAMAICA 🇯🇲 WINS GOLD FOR 4X100M RELAY | COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026

 

JAMAICA'S COMMONWEALTH GAMES PERFORMANCE REVIEWED

 

TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES 2026 🇫🇷 | STAGE 1 CLASSIFICATION

 

MEDAL COUNT | COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026 | GLASGOW

 

WASHINGTON 2026 | SEMI-FINALS

 

TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES 🇫🇷 | STAGE 2 ELEVATION AND DISTANCE MAP

 

WRC RALLY FINLAND 🇫🇮 SHOCK 😲 | OGIER CRASHES, EVANS ROLLS & PAJARI TAKES THE LEAD

 

SÉBASTIENE OGIER HUGE CRASH AT WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND

 

PAJARI TAKES OVER THE LEAD | DAY 3 HIGHLIGHTS | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026 🇫🇮

 

DAY 3 HIGHLIGHTS | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026 🇫🇮

 

TRIPLE H CONFIRMS WWE STAR WAS TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AFTER SUMMERSLAM INJURY

 

Photo Credit: WWE

Triple H confirms Brie Bella was taken to the hospital after her match at WWE SummerSlam Night One.

Brie Bella teamed up with her sister Nikki Bella and Paige in a six-woman tag team match against Fatal Influence’s Jacy Jayne, Lainey Reid, and Fallon Henley at the event. During the contest, it appeared that she sustained a shoulder injury, possibly while Jayne performed a cannonball on Bella against the steel steps.

However, she continued the match, which ended with Jacy Jayne pinning Paige. The Bella Twins then turned heel on Paige after the bout and gave her a beatdown. WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H addressed Brie Bella’s injury during the post-show press conference, revealing that she was taken to the hospital to get scans. There’s no official diagnosis yet, and he hopes it’s not as serious as initially feared.

“She’s injured. I don’t have an update yet. She was here. Got some treatment here. She has been taken to the hospital to get some scans done. So I don’t have a clean answer on it yet. I know a hurt shoulder seems pretty bad, but I don’t have that answer yet.” Triple H said.

“Hopefully we will soon, and hopefully it won’t be as bad as we thought it was. But that’s the nature of the game, and we’ll pivot accordingly. It’s unfortunate. I hate it. It’s part of our business, and I think tonight that was the only serious thing that came out of this,” Triple H concluded.

.- KEBIN ANTONY, H/T WrestleZone

TOYOTA ISSUE UPDATE ON OGIER AND INGRASSIA

 

KENYA NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP 🇰🇪 | ROUND 1 |TOP 5

 

UEFA READY TO OUST FIFA PRESIDENT GIANNI INFANTINO WITH NO-CONFIDENCE MOTION: REPORT

UEFA is reportedly prepared to trigger an emergency no-confidence vote against Infantino if he does not resign, with all 55 of the European governing body's member associations understood to be willing to support his removal.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is reportedly facing the prospect of a no-confidence motion from UEFA.© Getty

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is reportedly facing the prospect of a no-confidence motion from UEFA after world football's governing body was forced to abandon its controversial proposal to sell a stake in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup and other competitions. The latest development comes amid growing scrutiny of FIFA's leadership following the withdrawal of the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project, which had drawn strong opposition from UEFA, several continental confederations and senior figures within FIFA itself.

According to a report in The Telegraph, UEFA is prepared to trigger an emergency no-confidence vote against Infantino if he does not resign, with all 55 of the European governing body's member associations understood to be willing to support his removal. Under FIFA's statutes, UEFA can reportedly initiate such a motion with the backing of 43 member associations.

UEFA on Saturday welcomed FIFA's decision to scrap the proposal but launched a scathing attack on the organisation's leadership and governance.

In a strongly-worded statement, UEFA said FIFA's plan to sell a stake in its competitions, including the World Cup, into private hands had been unanimously rejected by its member associations and opposed by football stakeholders across the globe.

Describing the withdrawal as ‘a victory for the whole game', UEFA also declared that "football is not for sale" and thanked fans, clubs, leagues, players, national associations, confederations and political leaders who opposed the proposal.

The European body further claimed that the current FIFA leadership had "not only lost UEFA's confidence but also that of many other members of the football family", while accusing Infantino of failing to uphold his promises of transparency made when he was elected FIFA president in 2016.

The controversy centres around FIFA's proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a new commercial entity that would have managed the commercial rights of major FIFA competitions while allowing outside investors to acquire an equity stake. FIFA argued the initiative could significantly increase development funding for its member associations.

Infantino formally withdrew the proposal on Saturday, saying consultations had made it clear that the project had created divisions that were no longer in the best interests of football.

"Our purpose has always been, and will always be, to unite and improve," Infantino said while confirming that the proposal would not proceed.

The proposal had also prompted opposition from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), CONCACAF and several FIFA stakeholders. Former FIFA senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned in protest, while reports also suggested concerns had been raised internally over the project's transparency.

- IANS

FLAVIO BRIATORE SEND WARNING AHEAD OF 2027 | GUCCI CAR

 

“Our Gucci car in 2027 will be the MOST PHOTOGRAPHED car in the world.”

“We’re going to surprise everyone with the Gucci merchandise we’ve prepared.”

“We’re keeping the car livery and the driver’s race suit under absolute secrecy.” 🤫 

(via. @wearetherace)

#Gucci #F1

LAUSANE OPENER | TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES | STAGE 1

DOWNAN, TZOULIS, HARVETS & JESUS RUN RIOT 🔥 | GIRONA 1-4 ARSENAL | PRE-SEASON

 

BIRMINGHAM CITY VS. BARCELONA | 2-2 | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY|

 

TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES | ROUTE

 

BAYER LEVERKUSEN'S KENNET EICHHORN DIAGNOSED WITH METABOLIC DISORDER

Bayern Leverkusen newcomer Kennet Eichhorn has been ruled out until further notice. - © IMAGO/Jan Huebner

Kennet Eichhorn has been ruled out indefinitely after being diagnosed with a metabolic disorder, Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed.

The condition was identified during routine medical examinations and was preceded by excessive physical strain and weight loss, partly as a result of a gastrointestinal condition.

The 17-year-old midfielder will now undergo further assessment and treatment under the supervision of specialist doctors, with no timeframe given for his return.

The setback comes after Eichhorn earned a move to Leverkusen following a breakout season in Bundesliga 2 at Hertha Berlin, during which he became the division's youngest player, starter and goalscorer.

"Kennet is set to embark on what we hope will be a very long career at the very highest level. We will support him as best we can along the way," said Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes.

"What's important at this stage is that we have put the right measures in place for his recovery and that Kennet is given the time and peace and quiet he needs for his treatment, without any pressure."

- Bundesliga 

CENTRAL COUNCIL "OVERWHELMINGLY" AGREES TO MAINTAIN ALLIANZ PARTNERSHIP

 

A view of the protest outside Croke Park against Allianz's sponsorship of the GAA ©INPHO/Nick Elliott

The GAA has reaffirmed its partnership with Allianz following discussions at management committee and Central Council level today and yesterday.

The issue was revisited after correspondence from Tyrone GAA, which had raised concerns over the sponsorship.

Following a report from the Ethics and Integrity Commission last December, the GAA opted to retain the partnership, warning that ending the agreement would make it “impossible to secure an alternative insurer that would not have similar links” and “could expose the Association to legal consequences apart from loss of sponsorship.”

A statement issued after Saturday's Central Council meeting read: “Following a comprehensive discussion, it was overwhelmingly agreed to endorse the decision taken last December to adopt the recommendation of the Ethics and Integrity Commission report and to maintain this partnership.”

The Allianz partnership has been the subject of protests in recent months over the company's links, through its parent company and subsidiary PIMCO, to Israeli government bonds.

- Hoganstand.com

F1 DRIVER DEVELOPING 'WORST REPUTATION' ON THE GRID OVER HIS BEHAVIOUR SO FAR THIS SEASON

Carlos Sainz's obstruction of Oscar Piastri at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix has only deepened the frustration surrounding the Williams F1 driver, further damaging his standing among rivals who already viewed him with serious scepticism.

James Vowles, Team Principal of Williams Racing, isn’t putting the Hungarian Grand Prix collision solely on Sainz. Instead, he’s pointing to a broken blue‑flag system, unclear team messaging, and Fernando Alonso’s refusal to yield.

Piastri - who lost the lead because of the contact - blasted Sainz as an “idiot” and later called the move “the dumbest thing” he’d ever seen.

Sainz took a five-second penalty for the contact, while Piastri later retired for an unrelated reason.

Onboard footage shows Sainz driving past several flashing blue lights and being overtaken twice by Alonso seconds before the crash. Vowles says the Spaniard should have moved aside earlier, and admits Williams didn’t warn their driver at the right moment. Stewards still held him fully responsible, however, but issued a reduced penalty due to limited visibility.

What's Been Said About Carlos Sainz

Nate Saunders, a senior Formula 1 writer and journalist for ESPN, said: "It's hard to ignore the cloud over Sainz going into the break following his collision with Piastri in Hungary.

"Piastri called it 'one of the dumbest things I've ever seen on a racetrack,' and given Sainz's intelligence and experience, it's hard to disagree.

"Worst of all is that Sainz seems to be a repeat offender; he stayed on the racing line while being shown blue flags as the race leader Leclerc approached at the British Grand Prix, and he's becoming known among his peers for being one of the worst for blocking in practice, too. That all might be more forgivable for a rookie, but this is Sainz's 12th season in F1."

The Lap 39 incident stripped Piastri of the lead, paving the way for Lando Norris to inherit the position and secure victory. The Australian branded Sainz’s collision with him in Hungary as “unacceptable,” adding that he ought to “look in the mirror” considering how often he’s criticised fellow drivers.

"Two problems took place," Vowles said. "That flag system just wasn't working. In fact, at one point, we were just operating with marshals doing their best, but waving blue flags, and it's a very difficult thing for marshals to do; they don't know when the cars are coming by and trigger that.

"What happened is he took an opportunity to go inside of Carlos into turn one. So, at that stage, Carlos then became the car behind, and when you do have a number of marshal posts to therefore give up position. However, on the run down turn two, Carlos was back ahead now, so the car behind is Fernando, again with the light boards."

Vowles clarified that there was no effort to impede Piastri, noting that a different car behind them should have yielded before they did.

- Cody Marmon

ALEJANDRO TABILO VS. BEN SHELTON | WASHINGTON 2026

 

MEN'S 200M FINAL | COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026 | GLASGOW

 

COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026 | DAY 10 | #TEAMINDIA | GLASGOW

 

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JUDE BELLINGHAM RECEIVES HERO'S WELCOME ON RETURN TO BIRMINGHAM CITY

 

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - JULY 31: Jude Bellingham, England International and former Birmingham City player, acknowledges the fans as he takes his seat during the during the pre-season friendly match between Birmingham City and FC Barcelona at St Andrew’s at Knighthead Park on July 31, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) Getty Images

Jude Bellingham enjoyed an emotional homecoming on Friday as he returned to St Andrew’s Stadium to watch Birmingham City’s preseason friendly against Barcelona.

The Real Madrid midfielder, who began his professional career with Birmingham before making his move to Borussia Dortmund and eventually Los Blancos, was back at the club where his rise to stardom first began. His appearance in the stands did not go unnoticed, with supporters giving the England international a rousing ovation in recognition of everything he has accomplished since leaving his boyhood club.

Jude. He's home. 💙 pic.twitter.com/4pb6UvXa5x

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) July 31, 2026

Bellingham made his senior debut for Birmingham as a teenager and quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in English football. His rapid development earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he became one of Europe's premier midfielders before joining Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.

"He's one of our own." 💙 What a reception for Jude Bellingham. Special moment at St. Andrew's. #BCFC #KRO pic.twitter.com/6mivDdB6rf

— Inti Official – Co‑Founded Blues 4 All (@Inti_Official) July 31, 2026

The warm reception highlighted the lasting affection between Bellingham and the Birmingham faithful, whose admiration for their former academy graduate remains as strong as ever.

- Managing Madrid

VINICIUS JR REACHES DECISION ON JOINING ARSENAL OR STAYING AT REAL MADRID, AS ULTIMATUM REACHED

Arsenal are continuing to monitor Vinicius Junior’s contract situation at Real Madrid, with sources confirming to TEAMtalk that the Gunners are being kept informed by the Brazilian’s representatives and intermediaries as negotiations over a new deal reach a pivotal stage.

The latest developments come after Real Madrid informed Vinicius that their current proposal represents their final offer.

TEAMtalk understands the Spanish giants have made it clear they will not improve their terms, believing they have reached the limit of what they are prepared to offer while maintaining their carefully managed wage structure.

Real remain determined to keep Vinicius and the player himself would still prefer to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, sources insist the situation is far from resolved.

We understand the biggest stumbling block is the signing-on bonus attached to a new contract.

Vinicius’ camp believe he deserves a package comparable to the one Kylian Mbappe received when he joined Real Madrid, with sources indicating they are seeking a figure close to the £85million signing bonus awarded to the France captain.

Real Madrid’s response has been firm.

Club officials have pointed out that Mbappe arrived as a free agent after the expiry of his Paris Saint-Germain contract, making his situation fundamentally different to that of a player already under contract at the club.

That disagreement has created months of deadlock.

Real Madrid have now informed Vinicius’ representatives there will be no further negotiations on improved financial terms.

The message is simple – accept the current offer or the club will consider other options.

Real Madrid won’t allow Vinicius Jr to leave via free agency

TEAMtalk understands Real remain unwilling to risk Vinicius entering the final year of his contract without an agreement in place.

If no breakthrough is reached, they would rather sanction a sale this summer than face the prospect of losing one of their biggest assets for nothing in 2027.

While the contract situation continues to dominate headlines, Real Madrid are pressing ahead with other business.

TEAMtalk understands Los Blancos expect to complete the signing of Yan Diomande this weekend, with talks continuing with RB Leipzig over the final details of the deal.

The highly-rated youngster is not viewed as a direct replacement for Vinicius, but his arrival would provide Jose Mourinho with greater attacking depth and another versatile option across the frontline.

Real’s plan is very much for Diomande and Vinicius to play together, not instead of one another, and everyone at the club remains hopeful that will be the case next season.

That is where Arsenal continue to watch developments closely. Sources have told TEAMtalk that the Gunners remain in contact with Vinicius’ camp and continue to receive updates on the situation.

Vinicius Jr favours Real Madrid stay over joining Arsenal

While Arsenal have enormous admiration for the Brazilian and have made clear they would be willing to offer him a hugely lucrative package, there has been no indication from the player that he is actively pushing to leave Madrid.

Indeed, those close to the negotiations continue to stress that Vinicius’ priority is still to remain in Spain.

However, Arsenal’s interest is genuine. TEAMtalk understands the prospect of living and playing in London is something Vinicius has discussed with those around him and is viewed positively.

Should negotiations with Madrid ultimately collapse, Arsenal believe they would be in a strong position to make their move.

Sources remain cautious over the likelihood of that scenario.

Vinicius expected to sign new Real Madrid contract

The overwhelming expectation among those involved is still that an agreement will eventually be reached and Vinicius will commit his long-term future to Real Madrid.

But unlike some reports suggesting the situation is already resolved, TEAMtalk understands there is still significant work to do before any contract is signed.

Until that happens, Arsenal will continue to keep a close eye on developments.

As one source told TEAMtalk: “Everyone still expects Vinicius to stay, but nobody can say it is guaranteed. Arsenal are informed about everything that is happening and they will be ready if the situation changes.”

- Graeme Bailey

MEN'S 200M FINAL | COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2026

 

BURNA BOY CREDITS ED SHEERAN FOR SHAKIRA WORLD CUP ANTHEM FEATURE

 

Burna Boy feat. Ed Sheeran, "For My Hand"
COURTESY PHOTO

Nigerian singer Burna Boy has revealed that British music star Ed Sheeran played a key role in helping him secure a feature on Shakira’s FIFA World Cup song, ‘Dai Dai’.

The Grammy-winning artiste disclosed during a recent interview with Capital FM. He also spoke about Sheeran’s support ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Sheeran’s role in the collaboration

According to Burna Boy, Sheeran helped him navigate the opportunity and prepared him for the demands of performing on one of football’s biggest stages.

“He had to give me a heads-up like, ‘Yo, you’re going to have to perform at the finals.’ He knows me… he knows how I get down,” Burna Boy said.

The Afro-fusion star explained that Sheeran understood the pressure such a performance could bring.

“He knows the stress part is a bit crazy for me and stuff, so he gave me a heads-up. He was like, ‘Yo, it’s going to be real stressful.’”

Burna Boy praises Ed Sheeran

Speaking further, Burna Boy described Sheeran as a close friend whose advice he values.

“He’s just a very sensible and lovable guy. He is someone I have taken to personally from the beginning. Ed is very smart, man. He always knows what he is doing.”

Sheeran shares songwriting credits on ‘Dai Dai’ with producer Alexander Castillo.

Shakira’s reaction to Burna Boy’s verse

Shakira previously disclosed that she waited 20 days for Burna Boy to deliver his verse for the song.

Despite the delay, the Colombian singer praised his contribution. She described it as the “cherry on top” and said his vocals took the track “to another level”.

The official World Cup anthem explores themes of resilience and inner strength. It combines Shakira’s global pop appeal with Burna Boy’s Afro-fusion sound.

The collaboration marks another major international milestone for Burna Boy. The Nigerian star has continued to expand his global reach through partnerships with some of the biggest names in music.

- Alexandra Aiyudu

TAYLOR FRITZ CS. ALEX MICHELSEN | DC OPEN 2026 | QUARTER-FINAL

 

WASHINGTON 2026 | QUARTER-FINALS

 

KALLE ROVENPERĀ DRIVES TOYOTA COTOLLA AE861

 

OGIER STORMS TO THE FRONT | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026 🇫🇮 DAY 2 HIGHLIGHTS

 

ARMSTRONG & LAPPI CRASHES | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026 🇫🇮

 

DAY 2 HIGHLIGHTS | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026 🇫🇮

 

DAY 1 | WRC SECTO RALLY FINLAND 2026

 

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WRC'S BIGGEST CHANGE IN OVER A DECADE

 

FIFA BOSS INFANTINO SCRAPS WORLD CUP SELL OFF PLANS AFTER BACKLASH

"Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place," the FIFA president said in a statement on Friday.

President Gianni Infantino holds the FIFA World Cup winner's trophy. SAM HODDE/GETTY IMAGES

After announcing plans earlier this week for FIFA to sell off a stake in the World Cup to private investors, the president of the global soccer governing body, Gianni Infantino, has announced he’s pulling those plans.

“The FIFA Forward Enterprise project was intended to provide a basis for further strengthening our FIFA Member Associations and our sport worldwide, especially in those countries where support is most needed. And more so, as we said from the outset, to do this only if a majority of the FIFA Member Associations were in support and always subject to a consultation process with them, the FIFA Council, the Confederations and wider stakeholders,” Infantino said in a statement on Friday.

“Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place,” he continued. “Our purpose has always been — and will always be — to unite and improve. As a result, this proposal will not proceed.”

The proposed plan would have consisted of FIFA setting up a new entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), that would bundle soccer associated money-making operations while a significant stake would be sold to private investors. 20 percent of the company would have been sold to Thrive Capital, an invest group run by Joshua Kushner, the brother of President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Backlash was immediate, with European soccer body UEFA saying on Thursday that if the plan went through, it would boycott FIFA events, including the World Cup. Three of the four semi-finalists of the 2026 men’s World Cup hailed from Europe, including this year’s champion, Spain.

Earlier this week, U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham released a statement online that read, “football does not belong to investors. It belongs to the people who fill the stands and who stand on the touchline week in, week out, rain or shine. The World Cup is not a product. It is the greatest competition in world sport, and it was never anyone’s to sell. Dress the deal up however you like. Once you have sold a piece of it, you have sold out.”

Infantino’s statement continued, “Moving forward, my intent is to bring all interested parties back together in the coming days and weeks in the spirit of shared interest in our game, and with the objective to continue growing football everywhere, particularly in those countries that mostly need our support.”

- MCKINLEY FRANKLIN

VICTOR WEMBANYAMA EXTENDS CONTRACT WITH NIKE

Victor Wembanyama has officially signed a long-term extension with Nike that includes his own signature shoe line. ✔️ (Via Shams)

JESSICA PEGULA VS ANNA KALINSKAYA | WASHINGTON 2026 | QUARTER-FINAL

 

BRUNO GUIMARÃES | DONE DEAL | ARSENAL FC

 

CHINESE MARTIAL ART WUSHU GAINS POPULARITY AMONG AFRICAN YOUTHS

Wushu players during the first Kenya National Wushu competition at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi, Kenya, July 30, 2026. /CGTN Africa

An ancient Chinese martial art is finding a growing following among young people in Africa, with practitioners in Kenya embracing Wushu not only as a competitive sport, but also as a path to discipline, self-control and cultural exchange.

Athletes from across Kenya gathered in the capital Nairobi for a Wushu competition organized by the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, highlighting the sport's expanding appeal in the East African nation.

Blending athleticism, artistry and centuries of Chinese tradition, Wushu features graceful sword routines, powerful kicks, acrobatic jumps and lightning-fast strikes that demand precision, balance and endurance.

A sport inspired by cinema and culture

For 22-year-old competitor Elvis Munyasya, the journey into Wushu began with martial arts films and online videos.

"What inspired me a lot was action movies," Munyasya said. "Then I came across Wushu performances on YouTube, and that is what inspired me to start training."

He says every movement in Wushu tells a story, and every performance reflects years of training, sacrifice and determination.

For many participants, competitions provide an opportunity to measure their progress and learn from other athletes.

"This is where you come and see the level of your performance. Competing with other athletes helps you understand where you are, and you learn a lot," Munyasya added. 

Wushu player Elvis Munyasya during the first Kenya National Wushu competition at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi, Kenya, July 30, 2026. /CGTN Africa

More than a martial art

For fellow competitor Veronica Wambui, Wushu has become a tool for personal growth and emotional discipline.

"It teaches you how to control yourself," she said. "If someone insults you, you do not react immediately. You learn to withhold yourself or walk away. There is a lot of discipline in Wushu.”

Wushu player Veronica Wambui during the first Kenya National Wushu competition at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi, Kenya, July 30, 2026. /CGTN Africa

Practitioners say the sport builds confidence, resilience and respect while introducing them to aspects of Chinese culture and philosophy.

Building bridges through sport

Organizers believe Wushu can play a broader role beyond athletic competition.

Professor Xiaodong Zhou, Director of the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, during the first Kenya National Wushu competition at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi, Kenya, July 30, 2026. /CGTN Africa

"Martial arts is not only physical movement; it is also a culture," Director of the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University, Professor Xiaodong Zhou said. "Through this culture, people learn how to deal with others. Martial arts can improve health, strengthen character and create connections between people."

Zhou said Wushu has the potential to deepen cultural ties between Africa and China by encouraging mutual understanding through sport. Organizers hope it marks the beginning of a new chapter for Wushu in Kenya.

As interest in the sport continues to grow, supporters believe it could become an important platform for youth development, cultural exchange and stronger people-to-people relations between Kenya and China.

- Halligan Agade