Sports 24-Hour Briefing
×Formula 1
Last updated: October 19, 2026, 4:30 PM ET
Driver Development
McLaren has kept Leonardo Fornaroli on as its Formula 1 reserve driver while handing him a World Endurance Championship programme role for 2027.
Future Talent
Six Saudi Arabian high school students are taking part in a competition building pipeline aimed at developing the next generation of F1 engineers.
Football/Soccer
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
Premier League
Tottenham finally got their first win of the season, with James Maddison scoring on his return and Dejan Kulusevski back from a long absence in the 3-1 victory over Coventry. Maddison's strike was described as a magical moment that he said had been 18 months in the making. Elsewhere, Manchester City face a Champions League test without Antoine Semenyo, who faces an eight-week absence and is a doubt for Erling Haaland.
Manchester United's troubles deepened, with the club enduring its worst start since 1986 after seven games and seven points. Pundits are already debating who could replace Michael Carrick, while Harry Maguire insisted the dressing room has moved on from a row with Martínez. Arsenal were held to one shot on target against Nottingham Forest, with Mikel Arteta blaming Forest's setup, and Merson argued the Brighton defeat had unsettled them. Brighton, meanwhile, are being talked about as genuine title contenders after a free-scoring start, and Diego Gómez's 55.7-yard goal against Palace topped the league's long-range rankings. Crystal Palace's Pierre Sage reportedly faces a fight to keep his job after a 5-0 thrashing.
Champions League and European Football
Como's Cesc Fàbregas called the upcoming meeting with Manchester United a "dream come true." In the Champions League power rankings ahead of matchday three, ESPN's panel reassessed the top sides, while Luis Enrique said PSG plan to stop Lamine Yamal by denying Barcelona possession. AC Milan beat Atalanta 3-2 at San Siro, keeping Amorim unbeaten in Serie A. Galatasaray are reportedly eyeing Bruno Fernandes as Manchester United's midfield situation remains uncertain. Liverpool and Manchester United are both reportedly interested in Nmecha, and Ronald Araújo has impressed since his move to Liverpool from Barcelona.
Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for 30 days and fined £215 by the Portuguese Football Federation over his walkout. The federation president, Pedro Proença, nonetheless insisted Ronaldo remains key to the national team. Ballon d'Or debate also continues, with Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé presented as the two strongest candidates.
Governance and FIFA
UEFA has demanded answers from FIFA over Gianni Infantino's dealings, sending 42 questions in an urgent letter. UEFA has given FIFA a two-week deadline to release the key documents, including those covering FIFA's failed private investment plan.
Women's Football
The USWNT under-17 side set a World Cup record with a 17-0 win over Samoa in their tournament opener. In England, Sarina Wiegman signed a new deal to lead the Lionesses through to Euro 2029. London City's Daniëlle van de Donk has been a standout in the WSL, while the NWSL's San Diego Wave remain top after a fifth straight win. Portland's Thorns drew 2-2 with Bay FC without suspended star Sophia Wilson.
Other Football News
Brentford have contacted police after a "dangerous" rugby ball stunt. Leicester City were drawn away at Oxford City in the FA Cup first round. Celtic thrashed Hearts 7-1 while Rangers drew at Dundee, with Hearts' Vrancken questioned after the defeat. Celtic's Jota said he came back stronger after wrestling with "demons" during his injury lay-off. Former striker Saido Berahino retired at, and Morgan Gibbs-White was fined after his car ran a red light. Duncan Ferguson was named Glentoran manager.
Coming Up
Manchester City face AEK in the Champions League on Tuesday, with Haaland a doubt. Premier League matches including Arsenal against Manchester United are scheduled to be broadcast live on Sky Sports in December.
NBA Basketball
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
Season Preview
The 2026-27 NBA season is nearly here, and ESPN has ranked all 30 teams with predictions for each club. The league's expert panel has also weighed in on the East and West races, debating whether the Spurs or Thunder take the West and whether the Knicks are headed for the Finals.
Contract Extensions
The Oklahoma City Thunder locked up guard Cason Wallace to a five-year, $139 million extension, rewarding the All-Defensive selection. In Minnesota, the Timberwolves agreed to a one-year, $40 million deal with Jaden McDaniels, while the Hornets signed forward Brandon Miller to a five-year, $209 million rookie extension. The Suns also committed $29 million over three years to center Oso Ighodaro.
Injury Report
Kings guard Ben Simmons has torn his Achilles tendon and will undergo surgery, ending his season before it begins. In Golden State, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said superstar Stephen Curry is "fine" after tweaking his right ankle in practice, and the team expects him to be available for the opener.
Roster Cuts
Several teams trimmed their rosters ahead of opening night. The Milwaukee Bucks waived guard Kevin Porter Jr., the Los Angeles Lakers released Dalton Knecht, a 2024 first-round pick, and the Dallas Mavericks cut longtime center Dwight Powell after 12 years with the franchise. The Knicks are waiving Bruce Brown while keeping James Wiseman, and the Grizzlies are reportedly waiving Walter Clayton Jr., a 2025 No. 18 pick.
Off the Court
Kevin Durant fired back at Suns owner Mat Ishbia on social media after Ishbia framed Phoenix's tenure in a way Durant disputed.
Coming Up
The Warriors open their season against the Lakers on Wednesday night, with Curry expected to play.
NFL Football
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
Commanders & 49ers
Terry McLaurin was carted off the field in an air cast during Washington's Monday night loss, and the team fears a significant knee injury. The 49ers, meanwhile, held off a furious second-half Commanders rally to improve to 6-0, though Mike Evans exited early with an Achilles injury. Brian Schottenheimer has the backing of Cowboys ownership, Stephen Jones said, despite Dallas's 2-4 start.
Injuries & Health
Rams wideout Davante Adams ruptured a hamstring and will miss six to 10 weeks, a blow to a Los Angeles team now last in the NFC West. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to miss the rest of the season after blood clots were found in his lungs, and ESPN's explainer outlines the causes and treatment. Texans receiver Tank Dell returns Sunday in his first game since a major 2024 knee injury, and Josh Jacobs could practice with Green Bay as early as Wednesday and possibly play Sunday. Doubs landed on injured reserve just as A.J. Brown returned for New England, though Brown posted a career-high three drops.
Quarterbacks
Caleb Williams threw for 305 yards and a touchdown in his return for Chicago, completing 30 of 36 passes. Aaron Rodgers tied Peyton Manning on the all-time passing touchdown list with two scores in Pittsburgh's overtime win. Andy Dalton is signing with Atlanta while Cooper Rush is released. Bo Nix will not be benched by Denver despite the offense's struggles, Sean Payton said. In New York, John Harbaugh is still weighing who will start against Houston, and the Giants' quarterback and running back situations remain unsettled after a home loss to New Orleans. Baker Mayfield will practice Wednesday for Tampa Bay, but Todd Bowles said the team will prepare as if Daniels will play.
Defense & Standouts
Chad Ryland kicked six field goals, including a game-winning 43-yarder, to lift Arizona over the Rams. Green Bay beat Dallas 23-13 by winning on third downs and forcing takeaways, and its defense is improving as Micah Parsons nears a return from a torn ACL. Kyler Gordon made a major impact in his season debut for Chicago with three sacks. Brock Purdy has mastered the layered throw that fits between defenders. Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was suspended one game for spitting at Raiders players, and he expects to be fine after the incident. Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble apologized for a taunt that cost his team a penalty. Josh Allen's acrobatic touchdown pass to Keon Coleman left Buffalo fans uncertain of who was under center.
Coaching & Front Offices
Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon fired GM Chris Ballard on Monday, raising questions about a broader overhaul. In Los Angeles, Jim Harbaugh declined to discuss McDaniel while saying the Chargers must address everything after a 0-6 start. Jets coach Aaron Glenn backed offensive coordinator Frank Reich despite the team's scoring woes. Washington's Dan Quinn faces questions after an embarrassing tie with the Giants. Garrett Wilson was frustrated after catching just four passes in a 26-19 loss to New England.
Fantasy & Betting
Malik Nabers, Kenneth Walker III and Trevor Lawrence led the Week 6 fantasy winners, while Derrick Henry and others disappointed. Stroud and Miller top the list of available free-agent pickups for Week. Early Week 7 lines offered value on three games, according to ESPN's betting analysis.
Coming Up
Packers linebacker Micah Parsons is nearing a return from his torn ACL. Texans wideout Tank Dell plays Sunday against the Giants in his first game since his 2024 knee injury.
MLB Baseball
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
ALCS & World Series
The Rays clinched the American League Championship Series with a Game 6 win over the Guardians, with Junior Caminero hitting his first career postseason home run off Guardians All-Star pitcher Shane Bieber. Tampa Bay advances to face the Brewers in a Fall Classic matchup between two franchises still seeking their first championship. Cleveland ran out of gas once again, extending the franchise's World Series title drought to 78 years.
Pitching Heroics
Freddy Peralta was named ALCS MVP after riding his fastball to a series that carried Tampa Bay into the World Series. His turnaround after a difficult stint with the Mets revived his career, and Tampa Bay took the risk paying off. Cleveland turned Game 6 over to its bullpen, starting right-hander Shawn Armstrong in a bid to stay alive.
Guardians' Season
Cleveland's season was revived by an aggressive trade deadline approach in August, which carried the club deep into October. The Guardians were back on the road facing elimination after a Game 3 rainout removed their travel day.
Front Offices & Free Agency
The Athletics hired Taylor Smith as president of baseball operations, adding a former Red Sox and Rays executive to the top of their front office. The Orioles named Jared Banner, a former Cubs assistant GM, as their new general manager. Aaron Boone will return as Yankees manager for a 10th season in 2027, according to sources. The qualifying offer for this year's free agents rose 5.1% to $23.15M.
International Market
Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato, is seeking to join an MLB club through the posting system after helping his national team reach a major international tournament.
Coming Up
The Rays and Brewers meet in the World Series, a matchup between two teams chasing their first championship trophy.
NHL Hockey
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
Flyers and Rangers Headlines
Cole Knuble, son of Mike, made his NHL debut for the Flyers on Monday night, skating for the team he grew up rooting for. The New York Rangers, meanwhile, beat the Anaheim Ducks 5-2 at Madison Square Garden to improve to 6-0-0 on home ice.
Goaltending Watch
Dylan Garand, has stepped into the spotlight due to injuries to Igor Shesterkin, raising questions about whether his opportunity will last. In Winnipeg, the situation around Connor Hellebuyck remains unsettled, with sources telling ESPN that at least three teams are still interested, while the goalie's suspension nears its end and the Jets await his return.
Scoring Records
The Florida Panthers became the first team in NHL history to record natural hat tricks in three straight games, with Carter Verhaeghe and Sam Bennett each scoring three goals along the way.
Fantasy and Previews
Fantasy managers looking to start the week can consider Arvidsson and Quinn, who have the right roles for points. A full slate of four games was previewed in NHL Tonight's stats and betting guide for Monday.
Coming Up
The Jets' goaltending situation could be resolved soon, as Hellebuyck's suspension is nearing its end and a trade remains possible.
General Sports
Last updated: October 20, 2026, 4:40 AM ET
WNBA Finals
The Atlanta Dream evened the series at 1-1 after Angel Reese posted 30 points and 16 rebounds, with Allisha Gray adding 18 points, in the franchise's first Finals victory. Reese's performance at Ballhalla was the centerpiece of a win that broke the Valkyries' long home run this postseason. Golden State had taken Game 1 68-64, and Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase's hard-driving style has been central to their run. Guard Gabby Williams brought 49ers fandom to her Game 2 arrival in Atlanta.
College Football
Florida State coach Mike Norvell called a penalty that negated a touchdown against Miami an "absolute joke." Auburn dismissed linebacker Xavier Atkins after he was suspended for the win over then-No. 1 Georgia. UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava will miss the rest of the season after left knee surgery. Oregon receiver Evan Stewart was arrested on a DUI charge early Sunday. Duke cornerback Kimari Robinson apologized for swatting a trainer's arm during the UNC game. Bill Connelly broke down an upset-filled Week, while playoff projections were reshuffled and Miami moved into the playoff conversation.
Rankings and Recruiting
Florida is the overwhelming choice as No. 1 in the preseason AP Top 25 men's basketball poll. Michigan is 16th in that poll, while Miami takes over the top spot in the power rankings. Former Purdue forward Trey Kaufman-Renn has signed with Kansas while his eligibility is contested. Texas is giving more first-team reps to freshman quarterback KJ Lacey as Arch struggles. Michigan has not named its starter for the game against No. 6 Indiana.
NFL
The Arizona Cardinals stunned the Rams in Week, with the Chiefs staying unbeaten. Charlie Jones and Tre Tucker produced standout catches among the week's best plays.
Cricket and Other Sports
Australia exposed South Africa's batting frailties as Scott Boland took four wickets. England face France unchanged after their defeat to Tonga. New Zealander Stephen Fleming, England's new Test coach, backed English coaches for the national side. Ronnie O'Sullivan was knocked out of the NI Open. Shakur Stevenson was released from Zuffa Boxing without fighting. Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili meet in a trilogy bout at UFC. Shane Lowry was traded to Boston Common in TGL's first trade. Ex-Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie is set for his Glasgow debut. Former champion Liam Smith was charged over an alleged attack. Ieuan Evans is stepping down as British and Irish Lions chair. Crossmaglen Rangers won the Armagh title after last year's heartbreak.
Coming Up
The Valkyries and Dream continue the WNBA Finals with the series tied 1-1. Michigan faces No. 6 Indiana with its starting quarterback yet to be named.