Formula 1
Last updated: August 8, 2026, 12:06 AM ET
Regulations & Technical
The FIA wants next rules overhaul to cut another 80kg from car weight by 2031, reviving the “nimble car concept” that was originally promised for 2026 but has since been diluted. Meanwhile, the governing body explained that banning power unit algorithms would be unworkable, despite its own Fan Voice programme showing fans enjoy the racing while drivers remain critical of the 2026 regulations.
Drivers & History
The grand chelem age record began with Juan Manuel Fangio at the 1950 Monaco GP (38 years, 10 months, 27 days) and has since been lowered by Jim Clark, Ayrton Senna, Sebastian Vettel and most recently Kimi Antonelli. Separately, Victor Martins discussed his role as a Williams simulator driver, telling Autosport that while his impact on the car is not direct, it remains significant through development feedback.
Team Updates
Mercedes is closely monitoring upgrades for the second half of the 2026 season, with Toto Wolff noting the start of the new regulation era requires careful timing on when to introduce parts. In contrast, Honda only grasped the severity of its F1 problems in January despite high expectations with Adrian Newey, and Aston Martin now aims for a Zandvoort upgrade.
Football/Soccer
Last updated: August 8, 2026, 12:08 AM ET
FIFA Leadership Crisis
The pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino intensified over the past three days, with the Norwegian federation calling for his resignation and Portugal legend Luis Figo joining the chorus. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said he lost confidence in Infantino, while UEFA's boycott of FIFA tournaments stands and the English FA has withdrawn support. In response, Mexico and Argentina have backed Infantino, and an allegation that UEFA paid off an alleged mistress of Infantino has emerged. Former FIFA vice-president also accused Infantino of blackmail. Meanwhile, European leagues called for FIFA reform, and potential challengers to Infantino for the presidency are circling. Infantino has apologized for "errors" in his World Cup stake sale plan.
US Soccer Updates
U.S. women's coach Emma Hayes said she was "delighted" that Mauricio Pochettino signed a new deal to remain U.S. men's coach through 2030. Hayes also urged U.S. Soccer to prioritize youth development ahead of the U-20 Women's World Cup. The USMNT's first fixtures after Pochettino's new deal will see them host Peru, Chile, Canada and Mexico. In transfers, USMNT's Arfsten earned a B+ for his move to Middlesbrough, while Hirving "Chucky" Lozano joined LA Galaxy on loan from San Diego. A source confirmed Zavier Gozo is close to joining Crystal Palace.
Major Transfers and Contract News
The biggest headlines include Mohamed Salah's move to Trabzonspor on a free transfer, with an analysis examining why he left Liverpool. Vinícius Júnior ended speculation by signing a new six-year Real Madrid contract. Bruno Guimarães completed a £75m move to Arsenal, with Newcastle's sporting director saying the decision was emotional. Leeds United broke their club record to sign goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City. Liverpool are ready to make Bradley Barcola their third £100m signing, while Arsenal could hijack that move. Barcelona are set to approach Manchester City for Rodri, with the midfielder facing a choice between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Liverpool also agreed a surprise loan for Barcelona's Ronald Araujo. Atletico Madrid are in talks with Tottenham over captain Cristian Romero. Tottenham themselves are targeting Folarin Balogun and others. Real Madrid's Mastantuono joined Fiorentina on loan.
Carabao Cup Action
The Carabao Cup first round saw several notable results. Will Lankshear's debut strike gave Middlesbrough a 1-0 win over Wrexham, with the same match covered live on Sky Sports LIVE. Walsall stunned Bristol City in the curtain raiser. The second-round draw will take place on Monday, with 11 Premier League teams entering. An explanation for why the first round was played on a weekend was also provided.
European Club Football and Friendlies
Scottish clubs had a mixed week in Europe. Rangers lost 2-1 to Jagiellonia Bialystok in Europa League qualifying, with Daisuke Yokota handed his debut. Hearts were thrashed 6-1 by Benfica, while Hibs secured a vital win and Motherwell drew in Helsinki. Reaction to the mixed results was covered on Sportsound. In friendlies, Arsenal's players were fuming after a 3-1 loss to Real Betis. Bayern Munich held off Aston Villa 2-1 in Hong Kong, while Chelsea fell 1-0 to Juventus there. Manchester City beat the K-League All Stars 3-1.
Women's Football and WSL Updates
England's Women's Super League season is approaching. Manchester United appointed Eva Olid as manager, with an analysis of the switch from Marc Skinner. Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey believes the club can win the Treble. The key dates for the 2026-27 women's football season have been outlined. In the NWSL, Ted Lasso features a real-life club cameo. France confirmed they will compete in the U-20 Women's World Cup despite UEFA's boycott threat. England's Erica Meg Parkinson was named in the squad.
MLS and Leagues Cup
Lionel Messi scored a brace to lead Inter Miami to a 4-2 Leagues Cup win over Atlético de San Luis. However, Luis Suárez is suspended for the competition. MLS has a new commissioner: Larry Berg will succeed Don Garber.
Scottish Football – Domestic and Governance
The Scottish FA will hold a summit on the future of the national game. The key match incident panel has been scrapped. Rangers are linked with PSV winger Driouech, while Celtic push for a Ghedjemis deal. The Scottish Premiership season preview highlights early troubles for title hopefuls. A podcast reacts to European results and makes weekend predictions.
Other Football News
England striker Ivan Toney has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. The FA banned solid perimeter walls after the death of Billy Vigar. Assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis retired to take up an FA role. Leicester's 2016 title memories were revisited as they prepare for League One. The National League kicks off with drama expected. Southampton boss Tonda Eckert addressed the Spygate scandal. Coventry City signed Caleb Yirenkyi for a club record fee. Wrexham signed Ben Whiteman from Preston. Everton signed Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal. Birmingham City signed Chancelle Effa Effa for £100k. Crystal Palace completed the signing of Takehiro Tomiyasu after a trial. Millwall signed Lyndon Dykes on a one-year deal. Cardiff City signed Jack Moylan from Lincoln. Bournemouth signed Juanlu Sánchez from Sevilla. Swansea signed Ross Stewart on a free. Hull City broke their record for goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis and also signed Jens Hjerto-Dahl. Notts County signed Dean Campbell from Northampton.
Other Sports Briefs
In The Hundred, Phoebe Litchfield hit the fastest fifty to eliminate Birmingham Phoenix women, while the men's side were also knocked out by Sun Risers Leeds. MI London's Sikandar Raza inspired a derby win. In boxing, Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua is expected to be finalized by end of August, with Dana White revealing the venue deal. Joseph Parker claimed a failed drug test was caused by his nutritionist. In golf, Charley Hull shot a course-record 62 in London. In rugby, All Blacks beat the Stormers 38-21 on their South Africa tour. In boxing, Aaron McKenna aims to unify at middleweight and fight at heavyweight.
NBA Basketball
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:22 PM ET
Major Moves & Trades
In a stunning turn of events, LeBron James landed in Philadelphia after choosing the 76ers, driven by loyalty to his own basketball compass. The move reshapes the East, and the Warriors' pursuit of LeBron never got serious as they instead bank on continuity. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown called his trade to the Sixers a 'crazy transition', adding that he was disappointed with the Celtics' communication. The Sixers also confirmed that Joel Embiid is healthy and 'extra motivated' with LeBron and Brown now on his side. In a light moment, LeBron James shot down Jaylen Brown's title idea if the 76ers win — Brown had suggested skydiving.
Free Agency & Contracts
The Suns are locking in their core: Dillon Brooks agreed to a three-year, $73 million extension through 2029-30. The Nuggets added depth with Lonnie Walker IV signing a one-year, $3.3 million deal. The Wizards and Anthony Davis have tabled talks until the season starts, per sources. As the 2026-27 season nears, nine notable free agents remain on the market, including Jalen Duren and James Harden. ESPN's Bobby Marks examines 10 offseason trends, separating fact from fiction in this free agency cycle.
Off-Court & Legal News
Tragedy struck the Grizzlies: Brandon Clarke died from a mixture of heroin and cocaine, the coroner announced. In another legal matter, James Harden's misdemeanor gun charge was dismissed by a Texas judge. Federal prosecutors allege witness tampering in the Terry Rozier betting case, including a rat emoji posted on Instagram. Luka Doncic's ex-fiancée has withdrawn her child support petition against the Lakers star. Additionally, a report revealed that Kawhi Leonard had an undisclosed sponsorship deal worth millions with the company that built the Clippers' videoboard.
Team Updates & Culture
The Mavericks are going all in for a collectible: they're offering season tickets for 32 years and a signed jersey for a Cooper Flagg 1-of-1 card. In player moves, three-time dunk champ Mac McClung signed with Basquet Girona, a Spanish team owned by Marc Gasol. Former NBA star Monta Ellis was named Alcorn State's general manager. The NBPA opened the PLYRS UNTD Performance Center in Los Angeles, a one-stop shop for player workouts and recovery. The NBA schedule for 2026-27 is out, with league insiders circling every Knicks-76ers matchup as a new East heavyweight showdown.
Offseason Buzz & Future Storylines
Beyond the current moves, the NBA offseason buzz tracker follows free agents like DeMar DeRozan. Bobby Marks also previews 10 questions for the summer of 2027, including Golden State's franchise-altering offseason. The Kings are balancing a youth movement with veterans: they drafted Darius Acuff Jr. and are sorting out Sabonis and LaVine's futures. Victor Wembanyama will host eight to 10 Spurs teammates in France for workouts as they rebound from an NBA Finals loss.
Personal Life & Celebrations
Tyrese Haliburton and his wife Jade Jones held their official wedding celebration with a performance by 50 Cent, dancing to "I Get Money." Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown said that Donovan Mitchell and Coco Jones' wedding inspired his desire for love, leaving him motivated for his next relationship.
NFL Football
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:27 PM ET
Hall of Fame Weekend
The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony is upon us, and one fan's quest to argue for Ottis Anderson's induction highlights the passion surrounding the class. Larry Fitzgerald, a first-ballot inductee, explained why he'll never officially retire from the game, while a deep look at Drew Brees' legacy shows his success was built on far more than arm strength. Bill Barnwell also broke down which active NFL players are on track for Canton, including 17 who could retire now and get in.
Quarterback Developments
Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play in the Chiefs' preseason opener, as Andy Reid said Friday the quarterback will likely sit out. In Cleveland, Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders have been locked in a detailed QB competition focused on pre- and post-snap reads. Arizona's Carson Beck made his debut in the Hall of Fame Game, completing 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown in a 33-30 loss; coach described it as a good first steppingstone, and Beck was named the starter for that game earlier in the week. The Vikings are nearing a decision in their Kyler Murray vs. J.J. McCarthy battle, while the Falcons have turned to undrafted free agent Jack Strand with the first-team offense after injuries. Meanwhile, Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart sparked a dustup at practice by tossing the ball at a defender, drawing the ire of coach John Harbaugh.
Contract Frenzy
The Titans made Peter Skoronski the highest-paid guard in the NFL with a four-year, $100 million extension. The Bills locked up right guard O'Cyrus Torrence on a four-year, $78.4 million deal that includes $46 million guaranteed, and Colts star Jonathan Taylor agreed to a two-year, $44 million extension to stay through 2028. The Bears gave right tackle Darnell Wright a historic four-year, $116 million extension with $93 million guaranteed, and the Texans extended linebacker Henry To'oTo'o on a two-year, $16 million deal. Stefon Diggs signed a one-year contract worth up to $12 million with the Commanders, and Zay Flowers, after signing his own extension, said he hopes Lamar Jackson stays with the Ravens. The Falcons extended Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Matthew Bergeron, putting the spotlight on the missing QB; Matthew McConaughey was the first to congratulate Robinson on his new deal.
Training Camp Incidents and News
A scuffle broke out in Las Vegas when Kirk Cousins and Maxx Crosby exchanged shoves before teammates separated them. Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons threw a punch during a team drill and was sent to work on a side field for the remainder of practice. Jerry Jeudy clarified that a viral video gesture was about his daughter, not the Browns' QB competition. Bijan Robinson and Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs have talked about their mutual contract "hold-ins". New Eagles defensive end AJ Epenesa said he's happy to be in Philadelphia after a deal with the Browns fell through. Seahawks linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed he nearly retired after winning the Super Bowl but is ready for a title defense. Odell Beckham Jr. has impressed at Giants camp, and channeled LeBron James to describe maintaining a high level of play. Texans receiver Tank Dell is going for it in his return from nearly two years away. Bucs running back Bucky Irving sent a message to haters as he enters Year.
Roster Moves and Suspensions
The Colts' Cam Taylor-Britt will serve a one-game suspension for a conduct policy violation, and Saints rookie receiver Brock Rechsteiner was suspended six games by the NFL. The Saints are signing linebacker Deion Jones to a one-year deal, while the Bucs have no plans to trade Vita Vea and still view Baker Mayfield as a franchise QB, per GM Jason Licht. The Lions named Richard Haddad president and CEO, poaching from the Pistons. The Chiefs' home stadium will once again be known simply as Arrowhead Stadium. Rams coach Sean McVay said Aaron Donald looked outstanding in a workout but gave no answer on a potential return.
Fantasy Football Focus
Matt Bowen and Tristan H. Cockcroft list 10 fantasy sleepers who just need a chance if opportunity knocks. Eric Moody ranks the top insurance running backs to target in drafts, and a knockout league mock draft reveals different strategy required by depth. The Colts' Josh Downs understands that his time is now after a downturn in production.
Around the League
Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson said he can't wait to face the Texans in Week 1 after what he called "lies." The Colts believe they can recapture their 2025 magic, and the Taylor deal reflects that optimism. Five NFL trades that make too much sense were proposed before Week. Micah Parsons said playing against the Cowboys in Week 6 is realistic with the Packers. DeMeco Ryans used NASA's moon trip as inspiration, saying expectations reach the moon for the Texans. Can the Cowboys actually achieve GOTI status in 2026? A live recap noted that Kedon Slovis' TD pass to Bryson Green lifted the Cardinals over the Panthers late in the Hall of Fame Game.
MLB Baseball
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:31 PM ET
Injuries & Roster Moves
Dodgers ace Blake Snell is expected to return from the injured list to start Tuesday against the Royals, while fellow left-hander Tarik Skubal made his Los Angeles debut in a loss to the Cubs — landing only 51 strikes on 85 pitches, as the Dodgers offered little run support in a 4-2 defeat. The Yankees got good news as Carlos Rodón (elbow inflammation) will begin a minor league rehab assignment at Triple-A on Saturday, and the Rangers activated veteran lefty Jordan Montgomery from the 60-day IL, though he will pitch out of the bullpen. Minnesota placed ace Joe Ryan on the 15-day IL with a left glute strain, further deepening the Twins' rotation concerns. The Reds also lost right-hander Hunter Greene to the IL due to elbow soreness after he had made only five starts since his previous return. Meanwhile, the White Sox placed catcher Joey Bart on the 10-day IL with a fracture and recalled Edgar Quero for another opportunity.
Game Results & Highlights
The Boston 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 lined a single to center field in the 13th to score Nick Sogard and cap the rally. Sonny Gray threw three-hit ball over six innings to earn his AL-leading 14th win, matching a career high in Boston's 4-0 shutout. In Philadelphia, Cristopher Sanchez became the first 15-game winner in the majors this season as the Phillies beat the Nationals 7-3, extending his personal winning streak to five. Ronald Acuña Jr. hit two home runs — one assisted by a Miami outfield miscue — as the Braves swept the Marlins with an 11-3 win; Matt Olson also added a blast. At Wrigley Field, Pete Crow-Armstrong slugged two homers and Shohei Ohtani also went deep twice as the Cubs completed a sweep, with Crow-Armstrong emerging as the NL MVP favorite. Mets rookie Jefry Yan delivered a viral celebration after his first MLB strikeout, jumping high and slapping the grass. Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr. became the third-youngest Yankee to homer in his debut, doing so on a night when his little brother also went deep in his own professional debut.
Transactions & Off-Field News
The Mets claimed infielder Gabriel Arias off waivers from the Guardians, and he is expected to join the team Saturday for their game against the Pirates. Cleveland, in turn, called up top prospect Angel Genao, who owns a .309 average at Triple-A Columbus. The Athletics and longtime general manager David Forst "mutually agreed to part ways," ending his three-decade run with the franchise. The Pirates released designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who was hitting just .203 with eight home runs. The Brewers optioned rookie Brandon Sproat to Triple-A after acquiring veteran starter Dustin May at the trade deadline, making Sproat the odd man out of the rotation. Kevin Gausman, acquired earlier, expressed he is happy to be with the Cubs and will make his debut Friday. The Mariners saw reliever Gabe Speier suspended three games and manager Dan Wilson one game after Speier hit Detroit's Gleyber Torres with a pitch, stemming from a dust-up. Longtime Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow announced he will retire after this season following a nearly four-decade run.
Other Injury Updates and Roster Notes
Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left wrist, the latest setback to land him on the injured list. Garrett Crochet, the Red Sox ace who hasn't pitched since late April, said he is open to a relief role if he can recover in time. Padres right-hander Nick Pivetta exited his first rehab outing with minor elbow tightness, according to manager Craig Stammen. Blue Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage left his start early with left knee discomfort, lasting only two innings against Houston. Rangers lefty Cody Bradford will make his first start since 2024 after returning from elbow surgery, slated for Wednesday against the Giants. Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing has a slight tear in the UCL of his right elbow, according to follow-up testing. The Braves, criticized for failing to land a top starter at the deadline, have seen Bryce Elder and Grant Holmes pitch like they didn't need one. Sources told ESPN that former Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta arranged a meeting between Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor to help them work through their disconnected relationship.
Analysis and Power Rankings
In the latest MLB Power Rankings post-trade deadline, ESPN evaluates where every team stands, while a separate analysis hands out trade deadline awards, including a look at the worst team money could buy. The Yankees' relatively quiet deadline left some question marks, as New York entered without a splashy move. For fantasy managers, the article on late-season heroes suggests starting with Atlanta players for a strong playoff push. Adley Rutschman, recently acquired by the Red Sox, said he's just trying to fit in with a team on a roll.
NHL Hockey
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:33 PM ET
NHL Hockey
The Pittsburgh Penguins signed forward Ville Koivunen to an eight-year contract worth $32 million, averaging $4 million annually.
General Sports
Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:35 PM ET
WNBA
Caitlin Clark already has the most 20-point, 10-assist games in WNBA history, but her game remains a work in progress as she navigates her third season. Chelsea Gray made two buzzer-beating 3-pointers — the first to force overtime and the second to give the Aces a victory over the Fever on Thursday night after Clark's uncharacteristic mistakes. Two men were escorted from their courtside seats in Gainbridge Fieldhouse during the third quarter of that matchup. Clark said Thursday that it is up to individuals to "speak when you feel like you want to speak" regarding political issues. Sophie Cunningham wants the focus to return to basketball after her comments on transgender athletes sparked heated national debate. The WNBPA released a statement emphasizing diversity and inclusion and saying the organization "will not be used as political pawns." USA Basketball announced its roster for the FIBA World Cup featuring Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese and Aliyah Boston making their first major international appearances. In WNBA power rankings, Minnesota and Indiana rank 1-2 after an offensive showcase, with Las Vegas rounding out the top three. Seven teams look like playoff locks, while the Mystics, Sparks, Mercury, Sky, Fire or Tempo could be the No. 8 seed.
MLB
A panel of baseball insiders weighs in on the biggest blockbusters from the trade deadline, including which teams had the best deadline. The Cubs, O's, Red Sox, Mets, Phillies and more made major moves, and we've got it all covered. Here's how each of the 30 clubs' playoff hopes have risen or fallen since the deadline, plus how complete every roster is today.
College Football
Lane Kiffin is the biggest pot-stirrer in college football, but is he the best villain of all time?. Bill Connelly picks the Power 4 games with the highest combined SP+ ratings and a projected scoring margin under eight points. We break down which teams face the biggest challenges and which have the easiest roads ahead in the 2026 schedule. How good (win the national title!) and how bad (miss the tourney!) it could get for all 18 Big Ten teams. These 31 schools have the players and schedules to reach the CFP in 2026. What players will have an outsized influence on the 2026 season? We start with CFP-hopeful QBs. Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman wants his players focused on winning the opener, not the CFP. Offensive lineman Cole Hutson has returned to Texas after minicamp participation with the Browns and Cowboys. Indiana defensive end Stephen Daley practiced in a limited role Wednesday as he ramps up from a season-ending knee injury. New Purdue athletic director Tommy McClelland admitted that his one-liner at the expense of Indiana was a mistake "the second it left my mouth". McClelland apparently forgot Indiana winning the CFP national championship in January when he said "we are here to win championships." North Carolina coach Bill Belichick announced that his son, defensive coordinator Steve Belichick, is on medical leave and out indefinitely. All current Akron season-ticket holders are automatically entered into a random drawing to design the opening drive.
NFL & Draft
Jahmyr Gibbs' new deal is the latest in a flurry of extensions shaping the 2026 preseason, and Seth Walder stacked the 10 most notable. Is the No. 1 pick in the 2027 NFL draft destined to be a QB such as Dante Moore or Arch Manning? Or could someone like Dylan Stewart be first off the board?.
Cricket
Tom Lammonby's brilliant century helped Somerset keep their One-Day Cup hopes alive with a thumping victory over Surrey. Luc Benkenstein scored a brilliant 140 to lead Essex to a narrow win over Glamorgan despite Timm van der Gugten's unbeaten. Surrey maintained their push for a home semi-final in the One-Day Cup with a 95-run win over Kent. England opener Emilio Gay suffered a shoulder injury while playing for Durham. Rashid Khan took six wickets as Afghanistan beat Ireland by 92 runs 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. Jos Buttler says a conversation with England batting coach Marcus Trescothick helped him rediscover the form that took him past the all-time T20 run-scoring record. Buttler starred as Manchester Super Giants beat Welsh Fire by nine wickets in The Hundred. BBC Sport explores how Buttler became the highest run-getter in men's T20 cricket. Welsh Fire captain Phil Salt says he would like The Hundred to be a week longer after his side played three matches in five days. London Spirit became the first side to be knocked out of the men's Hundred after a six-wicket defeat by MI London. Sophia Dunkley helped Trent Rockets beat Birmingham Phoenix after Orla Prendergast took four wickets in Welsh Fire's victory. Andrew Flintoff stepped down as head coach of England Lions. England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum backed Harry Brook as a future Test captain but says Joe Root will do an "amazing job" in his second stint. Hampshire and England fast bowler John Turner retired from cricket aged 25 after more than a year out injured. Will you guess The Hundred cricket star in as few attempts as possible?
Golf
LIV Golf has secured funding from an outside investor that will keep the circuit alive beyond this season, according to CEO Scott O'Neil. LIV Golf says it has secured a deal with an unnamed lead investor to continue next season after the withdrawal of Saudi financial backing. From Jackson Koivun to Brooks Koepka, here's what players on the cusp of qualifying for the FedEx Cup Playoffs need to do at the Wyndham Championship. Robert MacIntyre, Patrick Reed, Francesco Molinari and Sepp Straka will play the Irish Open at Trump International Doonbeg from 9-13 September.
Tennis
Carlos Alcaraz's ongoing absence from tennis is analyzed, with wrist injuries being difficult to manage. Cameron Norrie progressed to the Canadian Open last 32 with a straight-set win over Ignacio Buse. Coco Gauff said she supports "fairness in women's sports" but criticized how the WTA's gene testing creates "animosity towards the trans community".
Cycling
Katarzyna Niewiadoma-Phinney produced a thrilling solo ride to the summit of Mont Ventoux to claim her first Tour de France Femmes stage win and the overall race lead. Demi Vollering won stage five of the Tour de France Femmes following a sprint victory over yellow jersey holder Marlen Reusser. Kimberley Le Court won a sprint finish to seal victory in stage six as Reusser held on to the overall lead. Officials at the Tour de France Femmes will check riders' clothing to prevent attempts to make "aerodynamic gains" via bra padding.
Combat Sports
Conor McGregor reiterated his desire to return to fighting after undergoing surgery on the knee injury suffered during his UFC comeback. A flyweight title rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja will headline UFC 331 in September. Brock Lesnar, a 10-time WWE world champ and former UFC heavyweight champ, said his match at SummerSlam was his last and that he's retiring from combat sports. Pound-for-pound star Claressa Shields says a fight with Wales' Lauren Price is now likely to take place in 2027.
PLL & Lacrosse
Four PLL games and one WLL contest are on the docket for Boston on Friday and Saturday for Throwback Weekend. With Throwback Weekend on tap and the playoffs approaching, the Waterdogs take the top spot in the PLL Power Rankings.
The Ocho / Unusual Sports
The story of how the iconic Ocho event "Slippery Stairs" was created — and a firsthand account on how challenging it is to compete. ESPN's 75-hour tradition showcases obscure competitions, from T. rex races to pumpkin tossing, and how it got started. Hundreds of competitors are poised to take the turf at Emerald Downs for T-Rex races. A new variation on chess called "the strangest sport in the world" — diving chess — will be broadcast on The Ocho.
Horse Racing
Poker & WSOP
Lucas Jumalon, a 22-year-old poker pro from Spokane, Washington, beat Finland's Lauri Saaskilahti heads-up to win the 2026 WSOP main event and $10 million. The 2026 WSOP final table featured great play and engaging personalities, while the Hall of Fame inducted only one player.
Rugby & Basketball (Europe/UK)
St Helens will face Hull FC in Dublin as part of a Super League double-header next April. Wigan Warriors kicked off the new Super Four format of the Women's Super League with a thumping 44-6 win at St Helens. Scarlets managing director Jon Daniels dismissed an Ospreys merger and wants greater transparency from the WRU. Former England prop Joe Marler will become the BBC's first celebrity Gladiator, known as Mauler. Television presenter Nick Knowles becomes a shareholder in Cornish Pirates. The planned launch of a bespoke European NBA league has the potential to take basketball in the UK to the "next level", says OG Anunoby. San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet stopped in the rain to help a stranded motorist.
Athletics & European Championships
Timetable and BBC coverage times for the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham from 10-16 August. London submits its final bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships at the London Stadium. Gloucester sprinter James Arminio is racing for GB at the Under-20 World Championships only two years after first stepping on a track.
Other Sports
Mrs. Met and Goldy headline the Mascot Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Longtime college basketball announcer Dick Vitale said he is making positive strides after his fifth cancer diagnosis. WWE superstar couple Bianca Belair and Montez Ford welcomed their first child. Winter Olympic gold medallist Eve Muirhead has come out of retirement, inspired by being Team GB's chef de mission. Jemima Lines became the first woman selected for the British America's Cup team in 90 years. The British Grand Prix will remain on the MotoGP calendar until at least 2028 as Silverstone extends its partnership. Chief executive Tom Gorringe says Swansea City are now on track to compete for a return to the Premier League. BBC Sport NI agreed a new three-year broadcast deal with the Irish FA to continue free-to-air coverage of international and domestic football. After a summer of transfers, the start of the Irish Premiership 2026-27 season has arrived. Derry City chairman Philip O'Doherty said the exit of manager Tiernan Lynch was "pretty much a snap decision". A powerlifter who was disqualified following an alleged racially motivated act said she "does not feel safe" when competing. Elite climber Mary Falconer is chasing a 2028 Olympic dream, using bouldering to deal with the loss of her mother. Since their contracts were stripped back to part-time, Great Britain Sevens players have had to find alternative employment. How getting fired helped Larry Fitzgerald's ex-ball boy reach the Hall of Fame. England star Hannah French paid tribute to medical staff after recovering from injury in time for the women's Hockey World Cup. How much attention have you paid to the world of sport over the past seven days? Take the weekly quiz.