Marco Bianchi 
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen was fastest in first practice for the Belgian Grand Prix, finishing 0.145 seconds ahead of Lewis Hamilton. Fellow Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar qualified fourth but will start ten places back after a grid penalty for exceeding his engine limit. Several other drivers, including Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli, also faced penalties or technical issues during the session.
Ireland’s captain Dan Sheehan urges the team to create its own legacy as they prepare to face the All Blacks at Eden Park in the Nations Championship. He acknowledges New Zealand’s strong home record but believes the new Irish squad can rise to the challenge, especially with emerging talent like Sean Jansen.
West Indies secured a 64-run victory over Ireland in the third ODI at Bready, completing a 3-0 series win. Stafanie Taylor scored a century (105 off 113) for West Indies, while Gaby Lewis hit a half-century (50 off 59) for Ireland. Karishma Ramharack took 3 wickets to help dismiss Ireland for 193.
Aimee Barrett-Theron, one of the world’s leading female rugby referees, has stepped down from officiating after being diagnosed with treatable breast cancer. The 39-year-old South African, who has refereed 52 international Tests, announced her diagnosis and treatment plan, vowing to return to the field. She emphasized the importance of self-checks and timely medical attention.
Cardiff City is appealing a French court’s dismissal of their £100m claim for compensation following the 2019 death of striker Emiliano Sala during a transfer from FC Nantes. The court previously ruled against the Welsh club and ordered them to pay £400,000 in legal fees to Nantes.
Australian swimmer Mollie O’Callaghan, who was told to stop swimming immediately due to spinal stress fractures, has been cleared to compete at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after further medical assessment. The 22-year-old Olympic champion will compete in multiple events despite ongoing health concerns.
Liverpool’s record signing Denise O’Sullivan has departed for Gotham FC after six months, joining the NWSL side on a one-year loan with a buy obligation. The 32-year-old Irish international made 13 appearances for Liverpool, helping them reach the FA Cup semi-finals before her transfer.
Wales captain Dewi Lake will miss the upcoming Test against South Africa due to a groin injury. Ryan Elias is expected to start at hooker, with Jac Morgan taking over as captain for the final game of the season. This will be the first time Wales coach Steve Tandy is without Lake since taking charge last year.
Josh Kerr will attempt to break the world record in the mile at London Stadium’s Diamond League Series event, joining a strong international field that includes Olympic and world champions. The event also features other top athletes like Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Keely Hodgkinson.
Tom Kim secured victory at the Scottish Open by hitting a crucial birdie on the 16th hole during his final round at The Renaissance Club. The win marked a significant achievement in his professional golf career.