Formula 1
Last updated: August 8, 2026, 12:06 AM ET
Regulation Changes
The FIA targets an additional 80kg weight reduction for F1 cars by 2031, pursuing the "nimble car concept" introduced with the 2026 rules.
Grand Chelem Record
The grand chelem age record began with Fangio at 38 years in 1950 and has seen younger drivers like Clark and Senna achieve the feat.
Football/Soccer
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:18 PM ET
Top Story
Emma Hayes said she is "delighted" that Mauricio Pochettino has signed a new deal to remain the U.S. men's team coach for another four years, adding that his stay can help "raise" the level of soccer in the country. Meanwhile, Hayes urged US Soccer to prioritize the U.S. Under-20 Women's national team at this year's World Cup, warning she is "worried" about youth development and the need to match the development of top European teams. France confirmed they still plan to compete in the U-20 Women's World Cup next month despite a threat from Uefa to boycott Fifa competitions.
Transfer Window Roundup
Liverpool have agreed a surprise deal to sign defender Ronald Araújo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, sources told ESPN, with the move described as a key addition for the Reds' backline. Sky Sports confirmed the deal, noting that Liverpool have secured the Uruguay international for the campaign. In other moves, Franco Mastantuono has joined Fiorentina on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, the clubs confirmed on Friday. Real Madrid also spent big to sign World Cup star Yan Diomande, adding him to a forward line that already features Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior; the club explained why they made that investment. Meanwhile, Vinícius Júnior ended weeks of speculation by signing a new six-year Real Madrid contract; an inside look reveals how the deal played out.
Manchester City are reportedly exploring a move for Enzo Fernández as a Rodri replacement, while Arsenal and Manchester United are both looking to sign Shakhtar Donetsk forward Kauã Elias, according to Transfer Talk's latest. The BBC's Saturday gossip roundup adds that Arsenal could battle Manchester United for Pio Esposito and that Liverpool have yet to agree a fee for Bradley Barcola, with more rumors detailed. Sky Sports also reports that Arsenal could hijack Liverpool's move for Barcola, citing Saturday's newspaper stories. Atletico Madrid are in talks with Tottenham over signing captain Cristian Romero, with negotiations ongoing. Manchester United continue to explore a move for USMNT left-back Antonee Robinson, per Transfer Talk.
Newcastle United have told Manchester United that full-back Lewis Hall is not for sale after rejecting an initial enquiry. The Magpies also sold captain Bruno Guimarães to Arsenal in an emotional move; sporting director Ross Wilson said the club did not plan to sell but their "very emotional" captain wanted to join Arsenal. Liverpool have invested £60m to bring highly-regarded young central defender Jeremy Jacquet to Anfield, and they are ready to put their faith in the "real deal" despite an injury disrupting his pre-season — the Frenchman is expected to make an early debut.
Coventry City completed the club-record signing of Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, with the deal worth a reported £26m; Sky Sports notes that the Premier League newcomers have strengthened their midfield. Hull City signed Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl on a five-year contract from Tromso, calling it his "biggest challenge" yet. Notts County signed Northampton Town midfielder Dean Campbell, as confirmed by the club. Former Mexico star Hirving "Chucky" Lozano joined the LA Galaxy on an initial loan deal through the rest of the 2026 season from San Diego FC, with the clubs announcing the move. Crystal Palace completed the signing of Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu following a successful pre-season trial, as reported by BBC Sport.
The USMNT summer transfer window is well underway, with several U.S. players finding new homes; an assessment of moves includes Arfsten getting a B+ for his Boro move. The 2026 summer transfer window also features a full list of all done deals in August, covering the Premier League, Scottish Premiership, EFL and Women's Super League, available here. Mohamed Salah decided to trade the Premier League for Turkish side Trabzonspor, leaving Liverpool with a gap to fill; an analysis examines why he left for Türkiye's fourth-most popular club. Meanwhile, Liverpool are not pursuing a move for Djed Spence this summer, according to Friday's gossip. Chelsea will be working hard to cut their 41-man senior squad before the window closes, with speculation on who could exit.
Carabao Cup Action
Will Lankshear's debut strike ensured Middlesbrough made a winning start to the season as they beat Wrexham 1-0 in the Carabao Cup first round; Gregg Berhalter's Boro side overcame the Welsh opponents in a tight encounter. Sky Sports also covered the match, highlighting that Lankshear's goal saw Boro past Wrexham while Wolves and Stevenage also progressed. The bulk of the EFL Cup's first-round fixtures are taking place on a weekend despite traditionally being a midweek competition, with an explanation of why that is. The second-round draw takes place on Monday, with 11 Premier League teams entering the competition; details on when and how to follow. David Sullivan is expected to attend West Ham's EFL Cup tie against Portsmouth despite being advised to stay away from home matches, as BBC Sport reports.
Premier League & EFL
Fulham's new signings made losing debuts in a defeat to Crystal Palace, with the match also featuring a Lukic injury and a Wilson transfer standoff; Sky Sports provides the latest from Craven Cottage. Mikel Arteta said his Arsenal players were "fuming" after defensive errors saw them fall to a 3-1 preseason defeat to Real Betis in Dublin; the manager was critical of the performance. Bayern Munich held off a late fightback from Aston Villa to secure a 2-1 victory in Hong Kong, bringing the pre-season tours of Asia for both sides to a close; match details. Barcelona canceled a pre-season friendly in Morocco because of the ongoing border crisis in Ceuta, as confirmed by the club.
Myles Lewis-Skelly broke into the Arsenal first team at left-back, but the teenager's preference has always been to play in midfield; his chance to threaten Arsenal's big-name midfielders is examined. Conor Gallagher is ready to show what he can do under De Zerbi at Tottenham, with timing in sport often defining a career — a look at his move. England striker Ivan Toney has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm following a nightclub incident in December 2025; the charges were confirmed. The Football Association has banned solid perimeter walls around pitches after a safety review following the death of former Arsenal youth player Billy Vigar; the new rule was announced. Assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis has retired from officiating and will take up a new role with the Football Association as head of women's referees. Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert says he is "grateful" to owner Dragon Solak for backing him in the wake of the Spygate scandal, claiming the image of the affair is far from the truth.
The National League kicks off on Saturday with a lot to live up to following the most dramatic end to the 2025-26 campaign; a preview asks how it can live up to last season's drama. San Jose Earthquakes hired former Portland executive Gavin Wilkinson as a consultant; Wilkinson was fired by Portland in 2022 after the Yates Report detailed systemic abuse in the NWSL, the club confirmed. Leicester City are gearing up for League One but 10 years ago they were defending Premier League champions; a feature recalls the secret invite and other "pinch-me" moments before Leicester woke up. Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has been given a trading card made with real 24-carat gold, days after making his unofficial senior debut for the club; the golden moment was captured. As Zeph Thomas prepares to manage in the FA Cup for the first time, he tells BBC Sport about his extraordinary career path spanning 39 moves in 18 years — the story of football's ultimate journeyman.
Scottish Football
Leeds underlined their Super League title credentials as Chris Hankinson's converted try capped a thrilling comeback 24-22 win over Wakefield in a packed-out stadium; match report. Already it is looking like the Scottish title might be won again by the best of a bad bunch, with a preview of what to look forward to this weekend. The Scottish Football Association is to hold a "critically important" summit around the future of the national game, as announced. Scottish clubs had a mixed night in Europe, with supporters and former Hibs player Scott Allan reacting to the continued summer malaise. Stuttering starts, goals in every match and plenty of excitement — the Scottish Premiership returned with a bang, and more is expected this weekend. Celtic and Rangers have submitted offers for wingers, while Anderlecht hold advanced talks with Dundee United over Will Ferry, according to the latest gossip. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is out of hospital and in "good form" after a procedure, Shaun Maloney revealed; the update was given. Mark Wilson believes the aim of returning Partick Thistle to the Scottish Premiership was a huge factor in Ben Stanway signing a surprise new contract, as Livingston visit in a live BBC Scotland match; Stanway boosts Thistle promotion bid. The Scottish football podcast previews the weekend with European reaction and big predictions, featuring Charlotte Cohen, Scott Allan and Cammy Kerr.
Women's Football
Midfielder Mariona Caldentey explains why Arsenal, strengthened by seven new players, are talking up their chances of winning the Treble this season; she embraces the "cool" pressure as Arsenal target a historic campaign. BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team details the key dates for the 2026-27 women's football season, including important fixtures and deadlines. A masterclass from Phoebe Litchfield, who hit the fastest fifty in the history of The Hundred women's competition, headlined Sun Risers Leeds' straightforward chase of Birmingham Phoenix's total, eliminating the Phoenix. In the men's Hundred, Birmingham Phoenix were also knocked out by Sun Risers Leeds after a 45-run win, just as with their women's team.
International & FIFA
UEFA has confirmed it is aware of an allegation that European football's governing body paid off an alleged mistress of Gianni Infantino while he worked for them; the body acknowledged the claim. The Norwegian Football Federation has called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign after he attempted to sell off stakes in the World Cup; Norway says there is "no trust" in him now, while Mexico and Argentina have expressed their support, per ESPN. The BBC also reports that Norway calls on Infantino to resign but two countries back the FIFA president, with Mexico supporting him. Rivals are reportedly circling in a bid to unseat Gianni Infantino as FIFA president following his plan to bring private equity into the World Cup; an analysis examines who could challenge him.
Argentina will not put pressure on Lionel Messi to play at the 2028 Copa América but will continue to let their superstar decide when he wants to compete, the federation stated. Spain "deserves" to host the 2030 World Cup final, according to the country's sports minister Milagros Tolón, who argued that Spain should be the venue.
Other News
The World Cup was a great spectacle but also hard work for the players; as many stars return to their clubs to prepare for the 2026-27 season, an analysis examines which elite clubs are struggling with burnout, including Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern. For those keen to extend their soccer love after the World Cup, a 10-step guide to European soccer provides all the need-to-know details, from Bill Connelly. The most-viral goalkeeper from the World Cup, Vozinha, and Africa's most storied player, Mohamed Salah, have had amazing transfer unveilings that captured the imagination — a closer look. Why can't the Premier League attract the world's best players? A feature explores why top footballers leave the Premier League, citing Vinícius Jr's decision to stay at Real Madrid as a case study — the question is examined. Simon Francis has collected more than 80 Mitre footballs which he displays above his stairs; meet the man with a museum of footballs in this BBC Sport profile.
NBA Basketball
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:23 PM ET
Mavericks & Collectibles Bounty
The Mavericks are offering a remarkable bounty for a rare Cooper Flagg trading card, including 32 years of season tickets and a signed jersey.
Player Transactions & Extensions
Former NBA star Monta Ellis will serve as Alcorn State GM this season. Three-time dunk champion Mac McClung has joined Spanish team Basquet Girona. The Suns extended Dillon Brooks on a three-year, $73M deal through 2029-30.
Team & Front Office News
Jaylen Brown called his trade to the Sixers a "crazy transition" and voiced disappointment with the Celtics' communication. Sixers president Mike Gansey said Joel Embiid is healthy and "extra motivated" alongside new teammates LeBron James and Jaylen Brown. The Wizards and Anthony Davis have tabled contract talks until the season starts, sources told ESPN.
Legal & Health Updates
The Los Angeles County coroner announced Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died from a drug mixture of heroin and cocaine. A misdemeanor gun charge against James Harden was dismissed by a Texas judge.
Offseason Buzz & Free Agents
ESPN's Bobby Marks examines 10 questions for the summer of 2027, including Golden State's franchise-altering offseason. The latest NBA offseason buzz tracks free agents like DeMar DeRozan and ongoing trade updates. Jalen Duren and James Harden are among the biggest remaining free agents still on the market as the season approaches.
Off-Court Stories
Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones celebrated their wedding with a 50 Cent performance, dancing to "I Get Money." A report revealed Kawhi Leonard had an undisclosed sponsorship deal with Daktronics worth millions, according to Pablo Torre's podcast.
NFL Football
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:28 PM ET
Hall of Fame Futures and Legacy
Bill Barnwell went roster by roster to identify which active NFL players are on track for Canton, including 17 who could retire now and still make the Hall of Fame. One fan’s impassioned case for Super Bowl MVP Ottis Anderson highlights why he isn't in the Hall of Fame yet. Larry Fitzgerald, about to be enshrined, explained that he doesn't believe in retirement and has no plans to formally step away from football or the Cardinals.
Preseason Openers and QB Debuts
Carson Beck completed 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown (125.4 rating) in the Cardinals' 33-30 Hall of Fame Game loss to the Panthers, calling it a good first steppingstone. The game was decided late when Kedon Slovis hit Bryson Green for a go-ahead score, as covered in live updates. Chiefs coach Andy Reid acknowledged that Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play in the preseason opener despite full participation in camp. Rams coach Sean McVay said Aaron Donald looked outstanding in a workout but offered no update on a potential return from retirement.
Quarterback Competitions and Camp Drama
Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins and pass rusher Maxx Crosby scuffled at practice Friday before teammates separated them. In Cleveland, Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders have spent seven practices focusing on pre-snap and post-snap techniques as the Browns evaluate their QB competition. The Vikings appear close to deciding between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy, with Murray favored to lead the offense. Buccaneers GM Jason Licht confirmed the team has no plans to trade Vita Vea and still views Baker Mayfield as the franchise quarterback.
Contracts and Transactions
The Titans made Peter Skoronski the highest-paid guard in NFL history with a four-year, $100 million extension, as sources confirmed. The Bills locked in right guard O'Cyrus Torrence on a four-year, $78.4 million deal that includes $46 million guaranteed, per his agents' announcement. Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor agreed to a two-year, $44 million extension, according to his agent's confirmation. The Saints are signing former Buccaneers linebacker Deion Jones to a one-year deal, as sources told ESPN.
Suspensions and Discipline
Colts cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt will serve a one-game suspension without pay for violating the NFL's conduct policy, as the league announced. Saints rookie wide receiver Brock Rechsteiner was suspended for the first six games of the regular season, per the NFL's transaction wire.
Player Notes and Camp Storylines
Seahawks linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed he nearly retired after winning the Super Bowl but decided to return, saying he wants to focus on staying on top of the "hard part" of a title defense. Texans receiver Tank Dell is confident in his return from an injury that kept him out nearly two years, and he is going for it this season. Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving delivered a message to haters as he looks to bounce back in Year, saying he's been doubted his whole life. Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson said he can't wait to face the Texans in Week, one of his former teams, after what he called "lies."
MLB Baseball
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:31 PM ET
Pitching Returns and Injuries
The Dodgers received a boost as Blake Snell is expected to return to the mound Tuesday against the Royals after his stint on the injured list. Meanwhile, Yankees left‑hander Carlos Rodón will begin a minor league rehab assignment at Triple‑A Scranton/Wilkes‑Barre on Saturday as he works back from elbow inflammation. The Twins placed ace Joe Ryan on the 15‑day IL with a left glute strain, a blow to a Minnesota rotation already struggling.
Roster Moves and Transactions
The Rangers activated veteran left‑hander Jordan Montgomery from the 60‑day IL and announced he will pitch out of the bullpen. The Mets added infield depth by claiming Gabriel Arias off waivers from the Guardians; he is expected to join the club Saturday night. In Chicago, the White Sox placed catcher Joey Bart on the 10‑day IL with a fractured hand and responded by recalling Edgar Quero from the minors. Longtime Athletics general manager David Forst and the organization have mutually agreed to part ways, ending his three‑decade tenure ahead of the team’s move to Las Vegas, a move announced Friday.
Game Results
The Red Sox extended their winning streak to eight games with a wild 12‑11 victory in 13 innings over the White Sox, as Caleb Durbin’s single scored Nick Sogard to cap the comeback. Phillies left‑hander Cristopher Sanchez became the majors’ first 15‑game winner this season, leading Philadelphia to a 7‑3 win over Washington. In Miami, Ronald Acuña Jr. capitalized on a flyball flub by Marlins outfielders to hit two home runs, and Matt Olson also went deep as Atlanta swept Miami with an 11‑3 romp.
Discipline and Power Rankings
Major League Baseball handed down suspensions after Wednesday’s benches‑clearing incident in Seattle: Mariners reliever Gabe Speier was suspended three games and manager Dan Wilson one game for hitting Detroit’s Gleyber Torres with a pitch. In a broader look around the league, ESPN’s updated power rankings assess every team’s standing following the trade deadline and the first week of August.
NHL Hockey
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 2:52 AM ET
Penguins Commit Big to Koivunen
The Pittsburgh Penguins committed to forward Ville Koivunen with an eight-year, $32 million extension, paying $4 million per season.
General Sports
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:37 PM ET
MLB Trade Deadline Fallout
The dust is settling on a frenetic MLB trade deadline, and the league's landscape has shifted dramatically. Baseball insiders have graded the biggest blockbusters, with one executive noting that some American League teams are simply glad they're not in the NL given the arms race in the National League. A comprehensive look at all 30 clubs reveals how each team's playoff hopes have risen or fallen since the deadline, with rosters now assessed for post-trade-deadline readiness.
NFL & Fantasy Football
The NFL offseason continues to generate headlines, headlined by the latest wave of contract extensions. Jahmyr Gibbs' new $67.5M deal with the Lions has been ranked among the most interesting recent moves, as analyst Seth Walder stacked the 10 most notable NFL contract extensions. For fantasy football managers, caution is the watchword: Eric Karabell's annual "Do Not Draft" list is back, warning drafters that a Giants trio is overvalued in 2026 drafts.
College Football
As the 2026 season approaches, debates rage over the biggest villains and future stars. A ranking of all-time villains places Lane Kiffin as the current pot-stirrer, but is he truly college football's most hated villain? Every Power 4 fanbase has someone it loves to hate, with a full list detailing the biggest villain of every team. to the 2027 NFL draft, analysts assess who might be the No. 1 pick, with QBs like Dante Moore and Arch Manning among the candidates for the top spot. Meanwhile, Texas offensive lineman Cole Hutson has returned to the Longhorns after regaining a fifth year of eligibility following minicamp tryouts. In the Big Ten, every team's ceiling and floor has been projected, with the possibility to win a national title or miss the tournament for all 18 programs.
WNBA
Two dramatic games on Thursday night showcased both the league's star power and its off-court tensions. In Indianapolis, the Aces beat the Fever in overtime as Chelsea Gray drained two buzzer-beating 3-pointers, the first to force overtime and the second to win it, capitalizing on Caitlin Clark's uncharacteristic mistakes. During that game, two men were escorted from their courtside seats after a reported incident, adding a disturbing element to the win. Away from the court, the WNBPA released a statement emphasizing inclusion amid the ongoing debate over transgender athletes, saying the organization will not be used as political pawns. On a more positive note, Caitlin Clark's game continues to evolve in Year; she already owns the most 20-point, 10-assist games in WNBA history, and the growth of her all-around game is a work in progress.
Cricket
Several domestic and international matches highlighted the past 24 hours. In the One-Day Cup, Somerset kept their hopes alive with a thumping win over Surrey, powered by a brilliant Tom Lammonby ton. Luc Benkenstein's 140 led Essex to a narrow win over Glamorgan, keeping their own One-Day Cup hopes alive. England opener Emilio Gay suffered a shoulder injury while playing for Durham, a scare for the national team. On the international stage, Rashid Khan took six wickets as Afghanistan beat Ireland by 92 runs, a dominant performance in Gary Wilson's first ODI as head coach. Scotland held on for a nervy nine-run victory over Canada to secure a place at next year's World Cup Qualifier, a tense tri-series win. Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as head coach of the England Lions, ending his brief tenure. Meanwhile, Jos Buttler credits a chat with England batting coach Marcus Trescothick for helping him rediscover the form that took him past the all-time T20 run-scoring record, a record-breaking conversation.
Other Sports
The sporting world extends far beyond the major leagues. In the PLL, Week 12 features four games and one WLL contest during Throwback Weekend in Boston, with playoff scenarios taking shape. The iconic Ocho event "Slippery Stairs" has a fascinating origin story, with a firsthand account of just how challenging the competition really is. The Mascot Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2026, with Mrs. Met and Goldy among the five inductees revealed on "Good Morning America." In cycling, Katarzyna Niewiadoma-Phinney produced a thrilling solo ride to the summit of Mont Ventoux to take the overall lead in the Tour de France Femmes, her first stage win of the race. Conor McGregor has reiterated his desire to return to fighting after undergoing knee surgery, saying his comeback starts now. In women's hockey, England star Hannah French paid tribute to medical staff after recovering from injury in time for the Hockey World Cup, praising the team's medical support. Boxing pound-for-pound star Claressa Shields says a fight with Wales' Lauren Price is now likely to take place in 2027, pushing the highly anticipated bout further down the calendar. The World Series of Poker 2026 final table delivered great play and engaging personalities, but the Hall of Fame process needs addressing after only one player was inducted. In college athletics, new Purdue AD Tommy McClelland admitted his one-liner at the expense of Indiana was a mistake "the second it left my mouth." Finally, a unique NFL story: Larry Fitzgerald's journey from ball boy to Hall of Fame includes a key moment when the Vikings rehired him and assigned him to the receivers, a move that shaped his career after getting fired.