Ireland has become the latest nation to advocate for Israel’s exclusion from European football competitions. On Saturday, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) passed a resolution urging UEFA to suspend Israeli clubs and the national team from all European tournaments. The decision followed a proposal from Dublin-based club Bohemians, which accused the Israel Football Association (IFA) of violating UEFA’s anti-racism policies and permitting the establishment of clubs in ‘illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank’ without Palestinian Football Association approval. The FAI’s motion was supported by 74 members, with seven opposing and two abstaining. In a statement, the FAI confirmed it would formally request UEFA’s executive committee to suspend the IFA for breaching two provisions of UEFA’s statutes. This resolution aligns with similar calls from Norway and Turkey, both of which referenced a UN Commission of Inquiry report accusing Israel of genocide during its conflict in Gaza. In September, UEFA postponed discussions on Israel’s potential ban following a ceasefire agreement brokered by former US President Donald Trump. While a European ban would not affect Israel’s participation in FIFA World Cup qualifiers, it could strain relations between UEFA and the United States, co-host of the 2026 World Cup.
分类： sports
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From Argentina to Meydan: Pereyra’s dream debut lights up historic Dubai Racing Carnival
The 2025–26 Dubai Racing Carnival kicked off in spectacular fashion at Meydan Racecourse, setting the stage for a season of high-stakes racing that will culminate in the 30th Dubai World Cup next March. The opening night was marked by the emergence of Argentine jockey William Pereyra, who made a dream debut with a commanding double, and the continued excellence of champion trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri, forging a promising new partnership.
Pereyra, a 31-year-old from Argentina’s Formosa Province, showcased his elite skills on his first appearance outside South America. He began his UAE campaign with a dominant 8¾-length victory aboard Shepperton Lodge in the Emirates SkyCargo Handicap, followed by a comfortable three-length win on Cupid’s Dream in the Emirates Airline Handicap. Both victories came under the banner of Al Mheiri’s Oasis Stables, signaling the start of a potentially fruitful alliance.
Al Mheiri, who recently lost star jockey Silvestre De Sousa to Jebel Ali Stables, turned to Pereyra, a seasoned rider with over 1,700 wins and 30 Group 1 victories in Argentina. The decision proved astute, as Pereyra’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen impressed both his trainer and the Meydan crowd. ‘William is a good find,’ Al Mheiri remarked. ‘He’s fitted in quickly with the team, and we have some exciting horses for the season.’
The evening also saw the return of Dark Saffron, last season’s Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) champion, who delivered a commanding performance in the Emirates Airline Conditions Stakes. Trainer Ahmad bin Harmash and jockey Connor Beasley celebrated a double, with Union Security coasting to victory in the Emirates Courier Express Maiden. Meanwhile, former champion trainer Bhupat Seemar made his mark with Grey Boss, a debut winner in the Arabian Adventures Maiden.
The international flair of the Carnival was evident, with British, Brazilian, and Uruguayan talents gracing the winner’s circle. As the curtain fell on the opening night, the stage was set for a season of unforgettable racing, with Meydan’s 30th World Cup anniversary promising to be a landmark event.
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‘Incredible week’: Rybakina outguns Sabalenka to win WTA Finals
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan emerged victorious at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping final. The match, which ended 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), marked Rybakina’s most significant triumph since her Wimbledon victory in 2022. This win also etched her name in history as the first player from Kazakhstan and the first representing an Asian country to lift the WTA Finals singles trophy. Rybakina’s performance was a masterclass in serving and returning, showcasing her resilience despite battling a shoulder injury throughout the tournament. Her victory earned her a record $5.235 million and propelled her to a year-end ranking of number five. The match was a testament to the intense rivalry between Rybakina and Sabalenka, who have faced off 14 times since 2019. Despite Sabalenka’s formidable tiebreak record this season, Rybakina dominated the decisive moments, finishing the match with 36 winners and just 22 unforced errors. Sabalenka, though defeated, set a new WTA Tour record for the most prize money earned in a single season, surpassing Serena Williams’ 2013 earnings. The Belarusian graciously acknowledged Rybakina’s superior performance during the trophy ceremony, expressing pride in her team’s efforts throughout the year. Rybakina’s win not only cements her status as one of the top players in women’s tennis but also highlights her ability to rise to the occasion on the sport’s biggest stages.
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Djokovic withdraws from ATP Finals due to shoulder injury
Novak Djokovic, the seven-time ATP Finals champion, has announced his withdrawal from the season-ending tournament in Turin due to a persistent shoulder injury. The decision comes just hours after Djokovic secured his 101st career title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, where he defeated Lorenzo Musetti in a grueling three-hour match, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. Musetti, the runner-up in Athens, will now replace Djokovic in the ATP Finals, which begin on Sunday. Djokovic expressed his disappointment on social media, stating, ‘I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best. But after today’s final in Athens, I’m sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury.’ The 38-year-old tennis legend revealed that he had been managing the injury throughout the Athens tournament and decided to delay his withdrawal announcement to assess his condition. ‘After yesterday’s match, I was hoping that it was not going to flare up. But today, even before the match, it was not great. I had to take strong medications to be able to play,’ Djokovic explained. He concluded that competing in Turin against the world’s top eight players would be impossible under the circumstances. Musetti’s inclusion marks a historic moment for Italian tennis, as he joins Jannik Sinner to become the first two Italian singles players to qualify for the same edition of the ATP Finals. This will also be Musetti’s debut at the prestigious event. Alexander Bublik has been named the first alternate.
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Trump wants Washington Commanders football stadium named after him
The demolition of the old RFK Stadium in Washington DC has commenced, paving the way for the construction of the Washington Commanders’ new $3.7 billion stadium. In a surprising twist, the White House has been in discussions with the Commanders’ ownership about naming the new stadium after President Donald Trump. According to a senior White House official, Trump desires the stadium to bear his name as a tribute to his efforts in securing the stadium deal. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt hinted at the possibility, stating, ‘That would be a beautiful name,’ and emphasized that Trump played a pivotal role in making the stadium project a reality. The official added, ‘It’s what the president wants, and it will probably happen.’ Trump is expected to attend the Commanders’ upcoming game against the Detroit Lions, where he may publicly announce his wish for the stadium’s naming rights. Unlike typical corporate naming deals, Trump is not seeking to purchase the rights or have a corporation sponsor the name. Instead, he aims for the stadium to be named in his honor as a recognition of his contributions. If approved, the stadium would join a long list of Trump-branded properties, including hotels, golf courses, and skyscrapers. This move is part of Trump’s broader efforts to leave his mark on Washington DC, which includes controversial projects like demolishing the White House’s East Wing for a lavish ballroom and proposing a ‘Trump Triumphal Arch’ on the National Mall. The BBC has reached out to the Washington Commanders for comment, while DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office has declined to respond.
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Argentina notches biggest win over Wales
In a historic rugby showdown at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Argentina delivered a commanding performance, defeating Wales 52-28 on Sunday. This victory marked Argentina’s highest score and largest margin against Wales in their rugby history. The Pumas showcased their prowess with seven tries, including two from rookie flyhalf Gerónimo Prisciantelli, who was named man of the match. Santiago Carreras also impressed, converting all eight of his kicks. Wales, despite ending an 18-test losing streak in July, struggled to maintain momentum. Captain Jac Morgan suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder while scoring a try, adding to Wales’ woes. The team conceded soft tries, missed 30 tackles, and received two yellow cards, allowing Argentina to capitalize with 17 points during their absence. Argentina’s dominance was evident from the start, with early tries from Pedro Delgado and Prisciantelli. Wales briefly rallied, but indiscipline and defensive lapses cost them dearly. Argentina’s Simón Benítez Cruz and Mateo Carreras scored spectacular 80-meter tries within two minutes, further extending their lead. Bautista Delguy added another try, while Prisciantelli and Santiago Grondona sealed the victory with late scores. Argentina now looks ahead to their next match against Scotland, while Wales faces a challenging autumn series against Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
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Argentina overpower Tandy’s Wales in record win
In a stunning display of rugby prowess, Argentina secured a historic 52-28 victory over Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. The match, part of the Autumn Nations Series, marked a challenging debut for new Wales head coach Steve Tandy, as his team suffered their 10th consecutive home defeat. Argentina’s seven-try performance, including a double from fly-half Geronimo Prisciantelli, set a new record for the most points scored against Wales. The Pumas’ dominance was further highlighted by full-back Santiago Carreras, who contributed 17 points through conversions and a penalty. Wales, despite scoring four tries through Tomos Williams, Dewi Lake, Jac Morgan, and Blair Murray, struggled to contain Argentina’s relentless attack. The match also saw the return of Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit after a two-year absence, but his efforts were overshadowed by Argentina’s clinical execution. With this victory, Argentina solidified their status as a formidable force in international rugby, while Wales face an uphill battle to regain their competitive edge.
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Premier League: Chelsea win eases pressure on coach Maresca
Chelsea delivered a resounding 3-0 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, a performance that not only lifted them to second place in the Premier League but also alleviated mounting pressure on manager Enzo Maresca. The win, marked by Malo Gusto’s first professional goal, Joao Pedro’s clinical finish, and Pedro Neto’s late strike, came after a week of scrutiny over Maresca’s rotation policy. Critics, including former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, had questioned Maresca’s decision to make seven changes in Chelsea’s midweek Champions League draw against Qarabag. However, Maresca defended his approach, citing the physical demands on players, and made eight changes for the Wolves clash. The strategy paid off as Chelsea dominated the second half, showcasing their depth and resilience. Despite a sluggish first half, Chelsea found their rhythm after the break, with Gusto breaking the deadlock in the 51st minute. Emerging talent Estevao Willian, introduced in the second half, made an immediate impact by assisting Pedro’s goal in the 65th minute. Neto sealed the victory in the 73rd minute, capping off a strong team performance. Maresca expressed confidence in his methods, stating, ‘Inside, we are convinced we are going in the right direction.’ Meanwhile, Wolves, now led by academy coaches James Collins and Richard Walker following Vitor Pereira’s dismissal, remain rooted to the bottom of the table, eight points from safety. The win positions Chelsea within six points of league leaders Arsenal, providing a morale boost ahead of the international break.
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Kiwis and Jillaroos triumph at Pacific Championships
In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Pacific Championships, New Zealand’s men’s team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Samoa 36-14, while Australia’s women’s team continued their dominance with a commanding 40-8 victory over New Zealand. The men’s final, held at Parramatta’s Western Sydney Stadium, saw the Kiwis overcome a 12-0 deficit with a stunning second-half performance, scoring 30 unanswered points. This victory marked a fitting farewell for veteran half-back Kieran Foran, who played his 34th and final Test match, capping off a 16-year international career. Foran, who will transition to an assistant coaching role at NRL side Manly Sea Eagles, played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s triumph, their second men’s title in three years. Meanwhile, Australia’s women’s team, the Jillaroos, reaffirmed their status as world number ones with a dominant display. Julia Robinson starred with two tries, contributing to Australia’s seven-try haul. The Jillaroos, who began their year with a resounding 90-4 victory over England in Las Vegas, have now won the past three World Cups and continue to set the standard in women’s rugby league. Samoa, despite their early lead in the men’s final, were unable to sustain their momentum against a resurgent New Zealand side. Key players like Naufahu Whyte, Erin Clark, and man of the match Dylan Brown were instrumental in the Kiwis’ comeback. The women’s final saw Australia take control early, leading 24-0 after 33 minutes, and despite New Zealand’s efforts in the second half, the Jillaroos remained untroubled. Olivia Kernick’s early try set the tone, with Robinson’s spectacular leap for her first try highlighting Australia’s attacking prowess. The victories for both New Zealand’s men and Australia’s women underscore the competitive spirit and high standards of rugby league in the Pacific region.
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First cross-border event debuts at the National Games
The 15th National Games marked a historic milestone on November 8 with the debut of its first cross-border event, the men’s individual road cycling competition. Spanning an impressive 230 kilometers, the race route incorporated the iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, symbolizing enhanced regional integration under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework. Cutting-edge technologies, including facial recognition and drone surveillance, ensured seamless and efficient clearance for athletes throughout the event. This groundbreaking initiative not only showcased China’s commitment to innovation and infrastructure but also highlighted the growing synergy between Hong Kong, Macao, and the mainland. The event has set a new precedent for future cross-border collaborations in sports and beyond, reinforcing the National Games’ role as a platform for fostering unity and technological advancement.