Marco Bianchi 
Ulster Rugby has brought in former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt as a coach development adviser, a move welcomed by forwards coach Clarke Dermody who highlighted Schmidt’s meticulous approach. Dermody also discussed the team’s pre‑season progress and upcoming fixtures as they prepare for the United Rugby Championship season.
Stephen Warnock praised an “exceptional” performance from Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, who netted the decisive winner in Liverpool’s 2-1 Champions League triumph over Atletico Madrid at Anfield. The victory secured Liverpool’s progression in the competition.
Pakistan debutant bowler Razaullah Khan enjoyed a perfect first over in the third Test against England, claiming the prized wicket of captain Joe Root lbw for eight runs. The early breakthrough left England reeling at 39-3, setting the tone for the remainder of the match at Edgbaston.
Robin Raikkonen, the 11‑year‑old son of former F1 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, has joined Red Bull’s driver development programme for 2027. The young karting talent, nicknamed ‘Ace’, impressed Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies, who praised his speed and maturity.
GAA Director General Tom Ryan denied that the delayed integration of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association was due to misogyny, insisting the merger remains a priority despite the 2027 deadline being missed. He highlighted the inclusive and progressive nature of the organisation and its reliance on women leaders.
Ukraine’s national motorsport authority, the FAU, has urged the FIA to sanction the Russian Automobile Federation for operating offices in occupied Ukrainian territories. The FAU president Oleksander Feldman wrote to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem demanding suspension of Russia’s membership and a public statement condemning the redistribution of sporting authority.
Elena Rybakina is on the brink of the world No.1 ranking, needing just one more win at the US Open. Former champions Jim Courier and Lindsay Davenport discussed her form and offered advice, noting her strong recent performances and the challenge posed by Qinwen Zheng. The article highlights Rybakina’s mental composure and recent victories, including a win over Naomi Osaka.
Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18‑year‑old Moroccan midfielder, made his first start for Manchester City in the Champions League against Porto and impressed with a composed performance, becoming the fourth‑youngest player to start a Champions League match for the club. His display, highlighted by high passing accuracy and defensive work, prompted praise from teammates and pundits, suggesting he could be a valuable asset for City.
European Leagues, representing 53 professional football divisions, has broadened its legal action against FIFA to cover the governing body’s alleged abusive conduct towards women’s football. The complaint argues that FIFA’s control over the women’s international calendar threatens the growth and financial sustainability of women’s professional leagues. The move follows earlier complaints about the men’s calendar and adds pressure on FIFA ahead of upcoming elections.
Former Wales record try‑scorer Shane Williams, now head of rugby at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, says the WRU provides almost no financial support for school and college rugby, risking the loss of talent. He also expresses little faith in the WRU board amid ongoing debates about regional restructuring.