2026 fifa world cuplatest news & developments
Lionel Messi has retired from international duty after a glittering 21-year career with Argentina, leaving the World Cup holders facing a major rebuilding process. | AFP
LIONEL MESSI
Video

Life after Messi: Argentina face major transition after legend retires

Following Lionel Messi's international retirement, Argentina face a challenging rebuilding era with an ageing squad and uncertainty surrounding coach Lionel Scaloni.

  • AFP
4 min read
Fifa president Gianni Infantino remains under pressure after a failed bid to sell a stake in the Fifa World Cup. | AFP
GIANNI INFANTINO

Investor Joshua Kushner blames football power struggles for collapsed Fifa World Cup stakes deal

Venture capitalist Joshua Kushner says he would not have backed FIFA’s $20 billion (R360 billion) World Cup investment plan had he foreseen the political backlash.

  • AFP
2 min read
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has praised Lionel Messi following his retirement from international football, thanking the Argentina icon for "redefining the beautiful game" across a 20-year career. | AFP
LIONEL MESSI
Video

Fifa President Gianni Infantino hails Lionel Messi’s ‘extraordinary career’ following retirement

Fifa president Gianni Infantino paid tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentina legend's retirement from international football, praising his record-breaking achievements.

  • IANS
2 min read
Lionel Messi said on Monday he is retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July. | AFP
LIONEL MESSI
Video

Why Lionel Messi retired from Argentina after 20 years

Lionel Messi has retired from international football after 20 years, two Copa América titles, and a World Cup triumph with Argentina.

  • IANS
4 min read
Fans during the FIFA World Cup 2010 match between Portugal and Korea DPR at Cape Town Stadium. The writer says the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 united everyone in a common purpose. That common purpose is needed again.
2010 FIFA WORLD CUP

South Africa needs to unite in order to 'win the future'

What would it take for South Africa to become impossible for the world to ignore? The answer may lie in something we achieved 16 years ago.

  • Dr Nik Eberl
6 min read
Leandro Paredes received a 10-match international ban for his part in post-match brawls following the World Cup final defeat to Spain. | AFP
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

Leandro Paredes handed 10-match ban as Fifa punishes Argentina for World Cup final scuffle

Fifa handed down a 10-game international ban to Leandro Paredes and sanctioned several Argentina players following post-match clashes in the World Cup final against Spain.

  • AFP
2 min read