General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 2:31 PM ET

College Football Recruiting and Program Updates

Bill Belichick expressed optimism about the North Carolina football program's progress, stating the team is "way ahead" of where it was a year ago. In other recruiting news, Monshun Sales, a five-star wide receiver, has committed to Indiana, becoming the highest-rated recruit in the program's history. Meanwhile, a ranking of the top 25 college football recruits was released, highlighting top prospects across the nation, including underclassmen. Lingering questions for the top 25 teams were also addressed, with potential issues like new coaches and unproven players noted. Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman received a contract extension through 2036 with a significant raise.

Golf's Open Championship Heats Up

Rory McIlroy successfully made the cut at the Open Championship, bouncing back with a 3-under 67 to sit at 1-under par overall, though he acknowledged that "too many stupid mistakes" impacted his opening round. He trails the leaders, as Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns both fired record-equalling rounds of 8-under 62 in the second round. Jackson Suber, who had never been to Europe before, surprisingly leads after the first round at Royal Birkdale. England's Dan Brown is among the leading English contingent at the Open. Fantasy baseball players can consult a forecaster for Week, featuring pitcher rankings, hitter ratings, and schedule observations.

Rugby Union and International Rugby News

England's rugby team is considering walking off the pitch if any players face racial abuse during their match against Argentina. England's players have also moved hotels in Buenos Aires to avoid potential disruptions from World Cup celebrations should Argentina's football team win their final. Gregor Townsend is prepared for another high-scoring game against Fiji in the Nations Championship, as long as Scotland secures the win. Ireland captain Dan Sheehan stated the team must "make our own history" when facing New Zealand in the Nations Championship. Rugby union is experiencing a boom in Argentina, with Pumas head coach Felipe Contepomi noting the nation's consistent production of international-class players. Wales will again partner Ben Thomas and Max Llewellyn in midfield as they finish their season in South Africa.

Motorsport and Cycling Updates

Max Verstappen topped the times in the first practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton in second. In cycling, Tom Pidcock has moved up to fourth place overall in the Tour de France standings after Mauro Schmid won stage 13 in a breakaway.

Other Sports News and Features

NBA commissioner Adam Silver stated that the debate surrounding Caitlin Clark has become a "political football" and is "not largely about officiating". World Cup winners will now receive championship rings in addition to the trophy and gold medals. The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is set to take place, with only two teams remaining with hopes of becoming champions. Andy Flower has ruled himself out of contention for the England Test coach position. The winners of the 2026 ESPYS were announced, with athletes like Jalen Brunson and A'ja Wilson taking home awards. A betting guide was released for the second half of the MLB season, offering prop bets for teams like the Brewers. Liam Dawson and Tom Banton will be released from England's ODI squad to participate in T20 Finals Day. Familiar teams, including Northants Steelbacks and Somerset, will compete in the T20 Blast Finals Day. Wakefield Trinity secured second place in the Super League table with a victory over Bradford Bulls. The World Cricketers' Association has expressed concern over changes to the men's 50-over World Cup format. Sir Garfield Sobers, a leading cricketer of the 20th century, has died at the age of 89. An investigation is underway following disorder at a football stadium where fans fled onto the pitch. Sir Chris Hoy believes the upcoming Glasgow Commonwealth Games will be a "massive success" despite a scaled-down format. Paralympian Ali Smith spoke about the challenges of returning to competition at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after experiencing two miscarriages. Rhys McClenaghan is a "work in progress" as he prepares for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, focusing on perfecting his new routine. J.J. Watt called out Real Salt Lake for failing to meet certain standards. The Sports Humanitarian Awards, ESPYS, Fanatics Fest, and the World Cup final are all taking place in New York, turning the city into a major sports hub. Joe Root discussed the difficulties young batters face in 50-over cricket due to a lack of exposure. Tom Dundon's decision to include his family on the Stanley Cup has been criticized as devaluing the trophy.