FIFA Club World Cup news

The 28-year-old is refusing to let his World Cup dream die, with the FCSB defender making a defiant return to action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The former Kaizer Chiefs man has sent a clear message to Bafana Bafana boss as the race for a plane ticket to North America enters its final stretch.

Ticket sales for the USMNT’s 2026 World Cup opener against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium are trailing several other matches at the same venue, according to a document distributed to organizers. FIFA disputes the figures, but high ticket prices and resale listings have raised questions about demand for the United States men’s national team’s first match.

A mystery is brewing at the Etihad Stadium following the news that a full set of winners' medals from Manchester City's historic Treble-winning campaign has been put up for auction. Leading sports memorabilia auctioneers Budds have confirmed an "incredible and historical set of five medals" will go under the hammer later this month. The lot is scheduled to be sold as part of the 'Made In Manchester Live' auction, which is due to take place on April 28.

The French manager is set to leave

Remarks by FIGC President Gravina on the sidelines of the Federal Council meeting

Following the shocking announcement that Morocco had been awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title by default, sanctions were imposed on the two national teams

The Inter striker holds dual French and Ivorian citizenship, but is not part of Deschamps’ plans

US President Donald Trump has suggested that Iran voluntarily withdraw shortly before the 2026 World Cup. Although the team is welcome, he considers participation to be risky at present.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists the 2026 World Cup will be a flawless global celebration, brushing aside mounting anxieties over escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Despite the USA and Israel conflict with Iran disrupting football calendars, causing widespread visa chaos, and forcing Iraq to request a delay, FIFA remains solely focused on record ticket sales.

A decade into Gianni Infantino’s presidency, FIFA has expanded globally while becoming more polarizing, shaped by growth, controversy and constant change.

Following a disappointing end to the Africa Cup of Nations for the Mzansi side, a flood of opinions, what ifs, and should-haves has dominated discussions, as the football community continues to digest the outcome of the campaign. With emotions still raw, supporters and pundits alike have begun dissecting every decision, selection, and moment that may have altered Bafana’s fate, turning the post-tournament period into a space of reflection, debate, and renewed expectations for what lies ahead.

New Year's Eve is almost upon us, meaning 2025 is about to be consigned to the past - but how will it be remembered by the football world? It was certainly an unforgettable year for some players, coaches and clubs. Paris Saint-Germain, for example, finally got their hands on the trophy they craved above all others, the Champions League, thus vindicating a sensible change in recruitment strategy by the club's owners, who went from signing superstars to investing millions in youth.

South Africa's World Cup group opponents will be officially revealed on Friday evening, with the draw set to take place at the John F. Kennedy Centre in Washington, DC, United States. The Mzansi side has been placed in Pot 3, alongside Norway, Egypt, Tunisia, Panama, Ivory Coast, Paraguay, Qatar, Scotland, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Algeria. The much-anticipated global football tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

UEFA is facing separate legal battles worth a total of €4.5 billion as Real Madrid and A22, the company behind the European Super League, are suing the governing body in the wake of a court ruling. A22 have also sent a letter to UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, demanding the controversial project be given full approval.

The Dutch professional footballers' union (VVCS) has joined a growing class action lawsuit against FIFA, the KNVB and several national football associations over what it calls an “unfair” transfer system. The legal challenge, spearheaded by the Justice for Players foundation, could impact over 100,000 players across Europe and potentially reshape football’s transfer rules.

Chelsea skipper Reece James has sent a warning to FIFA ahead of the 2026 World Cup as he urged the football’s governing body to rethink kick-off times to protect players from potentially "dangerous" heat conditions. The 25-year-old defender, who lifted the Club World Cup with Chelsea in the United States earlier this year, described the sweltering temperatures during the tournament as "super difficult" and believes that matches played in similar conditions next summer could put players’ health at risk.

Not sure how Bucs would cope with Lamine Yamal or Ousmane Dembele or Kylian Mbappe running at them but all that really matters is this young man believes in his team and their ability to weave magic on the football field.