India's preparations for the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup have been hit by controversy after Minerva Academy owner Ranjit Bajaj declined the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) offer to become the U-15 team's manager. Bajaj revealed he was never informed about the appointment before it was officially announced, learning about it only through congratulatory messages and media calls. Calling the process unprofessional, he said he would not accept the role under such circumstances. The incident has raised fresh concerns over AIFF's administrative functioning despite Bibiano Fernandes continuing as head coach for the tournament in Azerbaijan. (PC: Instagram)

A tragic lightning strike claimed the life of 24-year-old Thai footballer Sofwan Awae during the Golok FA Cup semi-final at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat, on August 4. The incident occurred amid heavy rain, with lightning striking the pitch while players were on the field. Despite immediate medical assistance, Awae succumbed to his injuries. Twelve others, including a Malaysian player, were injured and taken to hospital for treatment. The match was abandoned, and tributes poured in from Yala FC, football authorities, and fans. The tragedy has renewed calls for stricter lightning safety protocols in outdoor sporting events.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is considering withdrawing India from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup due to a scheduling clash with a landmark international friendly against five-time world champions Brazil. Both events are expected to take place during the same FIFA international window, making participation in both difficult. AIFF believes the Brazil fixture would provide unparalleled global exposure, valuable experience for Indian players, and boost football's popularity in the country. However, opting out of the ASEAN Cup could affect India's regional commitments and draw criticism over sacrificing competitive tournament football for a high-profile exhibition match. (PC: AIFF)

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has apologised for mistakes linked to his controversial proposal to bring private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup. After a meeting with FIFA's management board in Morocco, senior executives reaffirmed their support for Infantino, allowing him to remain in office. The governing body admitted the proposal was handled poorly and apologised for excluding key stakeholders. However, UEFA continues to oppose Infantino's leadership, while several national associations have withdrawn support for his re-election bid. Despite mounting criticism, Infantino is expected to seek a fourth term as FIFA president in the 2027 election. (PC: BBC)

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha welcomed judoka Asmita Dey after her return from the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Dey made history by becoming the first Indian judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal. The Chief Minister congratulated her and praised her hard work and dedication. He said her success has made Tripura and the country proud. He also wished her success in future international events. Many sports officials and supporters gathered to welcome the champion. Dey thanked everyone for their support. She said the medal was the result of years of training and promised to continue working hard for India. (PC: Getty Images)

A report by Dainik Jagran claimed that some Indian selectors wanted Rohit Sharma out of the 2027 ODI World Cup plans. They reportedly informed senior BCCI officials and Rohit about their views. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia publicly backed Rohit before the third ODI against England, denying retirement rumours. Rohit then scored 138 at Lord's, becoming the first Indian to hit an ODI century there. The report said some selectors felt "betrayed" by the board's support. It also claimed Ajit Agarkar's future as chief selector is uncertain, with VVS Laxman being considered as a possible replacement. (PC: ANI)

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing mounting internal pressure after withdrawing his controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal, which sought private investment in the governing body's commercial and event operations. The plan was scrapped following widespread criticism, triggering fresh questions over Infantino's leadership. He has now called an emergency meeting of senior FIFA officials in Morocco to address the growing backlash. Reports suggest the proposal also sparked rare dissent within FIFA, with Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom and Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour expressing concerns. The episode has exposed divisions at the top of world football's governing body and intensified scrutiny of Infantino's presidency. (PC: X)

Jordan Football Association president Prince Ali bin Hussein has accused FIFA president Gianni Infantino of "blackmail", claiming support for Infantino was linked to help for Jordan's football federation. Prince Ali said FIFA also has not released the prize money owed to Jordan for reaching the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup final. He said the federation refused to endorse Infantino despite the alleged pressure. Prince Ali also raised concerns over high World Cup costs, including visa issues for fans and taxes paid by Jordan because the team was based in the United States. FIFA has not responded to the allegations. (PC: The Indian Express)

India's historic Commonwealth Games gold medallist Asmita Dey is facing questions over her eligibility for Uttar Pradesh's sports rewards due to her permanent domicile in Tripura. The UP government's 2024 policy requires athletes to meet specific criteria, including domicile, education, or representation of the state in international events. Dey, a sub-inspector with UP Police since 2023, has represented Uttar Pradesh in several national and international competitions, making her eligible under at least one provision. UP Sports Secretary Suhas LY said officials will review the case before taking a final decision. Dey is entitled to ₹1.5 crore if approved. (PC: HT)

Nineteen-year-old Rajasthan cyclist Harshita Jakhar has become the first Indian woman to feature at the Tour de France Femmes, marking a landmark moment for Indian cycling. She led a group of eight young cyclists during the ceremonial start of Stage 2 in Aigle, Switzerland. The riders completed a 4.5-kilometre neutralised section alongside members of the WCC Road Team. Selected by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Jakhar has already made a strong mark in Indian cycling, winning numerous junior medals and competing successfully at senior level. She now aims for a top-10 finish at the 2026 Asian Games. (PC: X)