James O'Brien 
Great Britain’s top track cyclists, including Olympic champions Emma Finucane and Sophie Capewell, will race at the 2026 Track World Championships in Shanghai from 14‑18 October. The squad features eight world‑title holders and eight Olympic medallists, while the team notes the recent retirements of Katie Archibald and Katy Marchant. The event will be broadcast live on BBC platforms.
Wayne Rooney criticised the VAR decision that awarded Crystal Palace their second goal in a 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest. The win saw Palace take the lead and ultimately secure three points in the Premier League.
England have added former South Africa head coach Eric Simons to Stephen Fleming’s backroom team as the new Test bowling coach. The move comes as Fleming assembles his staff for his first series in charge against South Africa, while other consultants such as Kevin Pietersen and Marcus Trescothick continue in supporting roles.
Alessia Russo, the Arsenal forward, was voted England women’s player of the year, winning the award for the second time. She played a key role in the 2025‑26 campaign, featuring in all ten matches and scoring five goals, including a goal in England’s 3‑1 win over Greece in the World Cup play‑off semi‑final first leg.
American middleweight Brendan Allen secured a rear‑naked choke submission over Britain’s Christian Leroy Duncan in the fifth round of a UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas, halting Duncan’s push for a title shot. The win moves Allen into contention for Sean Strickland’s belt, while Duncan suffers his third loss in 18 fights. The event also saw fellow Brit Jai Herbert win his co‑main bout.
John Isner argued that the depth of men’s tennis in 2012 was “ridiculous,” with the Big Four and several other top‑10 players making ATP Finals qualification extremely competitive. He contrasted that era with 2026, where more players have realistic chances to qualify, suggesting the sport’s overall depth has weakened. The discussion was part of his “Nothing Major” podcast, with co‑host Sam Querrey.
Former UFC fighter Michael “Venom” Page has joined KSI’s Misfits Boxing on a multi‑fight, multi‑year deal. The 39‑year‑old Londoner, who recently left the UFC after a win over Nursulton Ruziboev, will now compete under the Misfits promotion. KSI announced the signing at an event, highlighting Page as a major new addition to the roster.
Ipswich Town turned the game around in the final minutes, scoring two goals in three minutes to secure a 2-1 victory over winless Fulham. The win came at Portman Road and gave Ipswich three points in the Premier League, while Fulham continue to search for their first win of the season.
Cole Palmer, the 24‑year‑old England international, has agreed a new contract with Chelsea that runs until 2034, rewarding his early‑season goal contributions. The deal makes him one of the longest‑serving players in the Premier League and underscores his growing role as a leader in Xabi Alonso’s side.
NFL legend Mike Ditka, former Chicago Bears player and head coach who led the team to a Super Bowl XX victory, has died at age 86. The family announced his passing, noting his impact on the Bears and the sport, while former teammates and the organization paid tribute.