The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain has become the most expensive sporting event in the United States, according to reports. The average ticket price is 11,327 dollars, setting a new record. The most expensive ticket is priced at 28,479 dollars, or about ₹27 lakh. The match will be played at MetLife Stadium. Ahead of the final, Lionel Messi also spoke about Spain's young star Lamine Yamal. He called Yamal "one of the best in the world" and wished him success. The final is expected to attract huge global attention and record crowds. (PC: AFP)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains under treatment at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital after completing 20 days without solid food during his hunger strike. Doctors said dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels could affect his kidney function. They urged immediate medical treatment. However, Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions and medicines. Hospital officials said he is under close observation. Meanwhile, security has been tightened in Delhi ahead of a planned Parliament march. Congress leaders criticised Wangchuk's removal from Jantar Mantar. Doctors warned that "his kidney function may be at risk" if the hunger strike continues.

At least 8 people were killed and five others were injured after a fire and blast at a firecracker factory in Ahmedabad's Mahmudpura area on Saturday. The injured were taken to L.G. Hospital for treatment. Firefighters and rescue teams continued search operations at the site. Officials said the death toll could rise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident, saying he was "extremely saddened" by the loss of lives. He announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of those killed and ₹50,000 for each injured person from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.

Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on Saturday. The rocket completed all four stages and deployed its payloads successfully on its first attempt. The mission, called Mission Aagaman, is a major step for India’s private space sector. Vikram-1 can carry payloads of up to 350 kilograms into Low Earth Orbit. The launch also carried technology test payloads and symbolic items. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Skyroot team. The successful mission is expected to boost India’s commercial space industry and future satellite launches.

Lionel Messi looked annoyed after Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was interrupted by the crowd during an event before the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The coach was answering a question when people started making noise. He stayed calm and asked everyone to show respect and listen. Messi did not speak but his reaction was caught on camera. The video quickly went viral on social media. Spain will face Argentina in the World Cup final. De la Fuente called it a great match between two strong teams. He also praised Messi and said Lamine Yamal should grow at his own pace.

5 people died and 10 others were injured after a blast and fire at a firecracker factory in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Saturday. The factory was suspected to be operating illegally. Firefighters and police quickly reached the spot and rescued the injured. They were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Police have started an investigation to find the cause of the blast. They are also checking if the factory broke safety rules. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced financial help for the victims' families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief and announced compensation from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.

The BCCI has reportedly asked India's national selectors to avoid speaking to the media amid growing speculation over Rohit Sharma's ODI future. Reports suggesting the third ODI against England could be Rohit's last in the format were dismissed by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, who said the veteran opener will continue as long as he remains in the team's plans. According to reports, the board is unhappy with information being leaked from within the selection process. Rohit's recent form has come under scrutiny, with the 39-year-old scoring just 37 runs in the first 2 ODIs against England. (PC: NDTV)

Activist Sonam Wangchuk remains under close medical observation at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital after being admitted on the 21st day of his hunger strike. Hospital sources said he is suffering from dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels, and doctors are urging his family to allow treatment without delay. However, his wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, alleged a lack of transparency, claiming the hospital refused to provide medical reports or allow independent testing. Meanwhile, Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijeet Dipke began an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity, while Delhi Police increased security at Jantar Mantar.

The United States carried out its seventh consecutive night of strikes on Iran, targeting military surveillance sites, logistics infrastructure, underground weapons storage and maritime facilities, according to US Central Command. Iran responded with attacks targeting US allies, including Kuwait, while Jordan and Bahrain said they intercepted Iranian missiles. Explosions were reported near Bandar Abbas and other locations in southern Iran, with damage to infrastructure disrupting electricity, water and communications. The renewed fighting follows the collapse of a temporary ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Tensions have also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over global energy supplies. (PC: BBC)

France coach Didier Deschamps admitted that neither his team nor England wanted to play the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff after missing out on the final. Speaking before Saturday's match in Miami, Deschamps said the game is less important than the final but stressed that France has a duty to compete and win the bronze medal. He also confirmed the match will be his last in charge of the national team. Defender Ibrahima Konate echoed his coach's feelings but said the players are determined to give Deschamps a winning farewell by securing third place against England. (PC: NDTV)