DR Congo supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, popularly known as the “Statue Fan,” has captured global attention during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Famous for standing motionless throughout matches while imitating a statue of Congo’s independence hero, Patrice Lumumba, Michel finally arrived in Mexico after missing his team’s opening game. His unique tribute and unwavering support have made him a social media sensation and a symbol of national pride. Despite DR Congo’s 1-0 defeat to Colombia, Michel’s presence inspired fans worldwide. The devoted supporter has followed the national team for years, becoming one of football’s most recognizable super fans. 

US President Donald Trump said ongoing negotiations with Iran could collapse if Tehran’s assurances about not imposing tolls or charges in the strategic Strait of Hormuz prove false. Trump stated that Iran had informed Washington that ships would continue to pass through the vital waterway without fees, aiming to ease concerns over global energy supplies and trade routes. He also defended plans involving the release of frozen Iranian funds, saying the money would be subject to strict oversight and used for approved purposes. The remarks come amid delicate US-Iran talks focused on regional stability, maritime security, and nuclear-related issues. (PC: Reuters)

Brazil may have reached the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, but confidence back home remains low ahead of their final group match against Scotland. Despite a draw against Morocco and a 3-0 win over Haiti, critics say Carlo Ancelotti’s side has failed to impress. Questions continue over Neymar’s fitness, Casemiro’s form and the team's overall cohesion. Vinícius Júnior has been Brazil’s standout performer, while fans are calling for young striker Endrick to be given more opportunities. With tougher opponents potentially waiting in the knockout rounds, many believe Brazil must improve significantly to challenge for a sixth world title. (PC: The Guardian)

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra has threatened legal action against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) after being excluded from India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games. Batra questioned the transparency and consistency of the selection process, claiming she was not given a clear explanation for her omission. She has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and the Indian Olympic Association, seeking intervention and a review of the selection criteria. The former Commonwealth Games champion stated that fairness and transparency are essential, while TTFI reportedly cited ranking-based selection norms for her exclusion. (PC: AFP)

A political battle has begun within the Trinamool Congress as rival factions led by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee seek recognition as the party's legitimate leadership. Both groups have submitted separate lists of office-bearers to the Election Commission, triggering the process to determine control of the party name and its iconic twin-flower symbol. The Commission is expected to apply its "two-wing test", examining support within both the legislative and organisational wings of the party. The decision could have major implications for TMC’s future, assets, electoral identity and upcoming local body elections. (PC: HT)

France is battling an intense heatwave that has pushed temperatures to record levels, with highs of up to 43°C forecast in parts of the country. More than half of France remains under red heat alerts, while around 68,000 homes in Brittany are without electricity following weather-related disruptions. Authorities say the country recorded its hottest day and hottest night since records began. The extreme heat has also increased the risk of wildfires and contributed to dozens of drowning deaths. Landmarks including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre have adjusted operations as officials urge residents to take precautions and stay hydrated. (PC: BBC)

At least four workers were killed and 21 others rescued after a three-storey under-construction warehouse collapsed in Kolkata’s Taratala area on Wednesday. Rescue teams from the Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, police and fire services launched a massive operation to locate workers still trapped beneath the debris. Authorities believe 12 to 15 people may remain under the collapsed structure. Drones, sniffer dogs and heavy equipment are being used in the search. The West Bengal government has ordered an audit of all under-construction buildings under Kolkata Municipal Corporation and suspended ongoing construction work pending safety reviews. (PC: India Today)

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has emerged as a powerful force in the Democratic Party after candidates he endorsed secured major victories in congressional primaries. The wins strengthened Mamdani’s influence and highlighted a growing shift toward progressive politics in New York. However, his rising power has also sparked tensions with several Democratic leaders, including members of Congress and local officials, who accuse him of sidelining longtime allies and deepening divisions within the party. Supporters say Mamdani is building a movement focused on working-class voters, while critics argue his approach risks weakening party unity ahead of key national elections.  

Argentina has unveiled an 85-foot-tall statue of football icon Lionel Messi in the Patagonian town of Cutral Co, making it the largest monument dedicated to the World Cup-winning captain. The steel structure, weighing around 70 tonnes, was inaugurated during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and depicts Messi celebrating Argentina’s victory in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar. The tribute surpasses a 70-foot Messi statue erected in Kolkata, India, earlier this year, which was later dismantled after authorities raised safety concerns. The new monument highlights Messi’s enduring popularity as he continues to break records on football’s biggest stage.  

The European Union has awarded the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) scholarships to 75 Indian students for the 2026–28 academic cycle, reinforcing India’s position as the programme’s largest beneficiary since 2004. The selected students will pursue master’s degrees at universities across 15 European countries, studying subjects including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, smart urban development and social sciences. Alongside the scholarship announcement, the EU launched the EU-India Student Ambassadors’ Network, comprising 40 students from 20 universities across India. The initiative aims to promote educational exchanges and strengthen academic ties between India and Europe. (PC: The Indian Express)