FIFA and FIFPRO
During the World Cup after England-Norway in Miami

FIFA and global players’ union FIFPRO are discussing stronger heat protocols after England’s quarter-final against Norway began in extreme conditions. ESPN sources said FIFPRO wants agreed rules for excessive heat, with the Miami WBGT recorded above its recommended cut-off.

Current FIFA rules only mandate hydration breaks at a higher WBGT level, while FIFPRO recommends delaying or postponing matches above 28C WBGT. The talks could shape future tournaments, especially after several 2026 games pushed player and fan safety concerns.

Senegal and Pape Thiaw
Sunday after Senegal’s World Cup exit

Senegal have sacked manager Pape Thiaw after their World Cup last-32 exit. The federation said the decision followed a review of results and future prospects, ending his spell less than two years after taking charge.

Thiaw’s position weakened after Senegal collapsed from 2-0 up against Belgium and amid wider fallout from their disputed AFCON final walk-off. Midfielder Pape Gueye had also said he would pause international duty while the current staff remained.

FIFA and Gianni Infantino
After the 2026 World Cup

FIFA will examine a possible 64-team World Cup before the 2030 tournament after Gianni Infantino confirmed the proposal will go to relevant committees. The idea follows South American lobbying and would expand the competition again after 2026’s 48-team format.

Infantino argued smaller nations need a chance to dream, but UEFA and CONCACAF leaders have already criticised the plan. A 64-team event could reshape qualification, increase host demands and risk making some regional qualifying paths less meaningful.

Jayden Adams, South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns
Saturday

South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has died aged 25, just weeks after playing at the World Cup. His death was confirmed by Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s sports ministry and the country’s professional footballers’ union.

The cause of death has not been confirmed, with officials asking for privacy for Adams’ family. Tributes described him as one of South African football’s brightest talents after he appeared in three World Cup matches this summer.

Italy, Paolo Maldini and Leonardo
Saturday

The Italian federation has appointed Paolo Maldini as technical director and Leonardo as advisor as part of a major national-team rebuild. The move follows Italy’s failure to qualify for a third straight World Cup.

New federation president Giovanni Malago said the appointments are the first step toward hiring the next Italy coach. Maldini and Leonardo will help shape a four-year plan through Euro qualification and the 2030 World Cup cycle.

FIFA, Mohammad al Kamali and Folarin Balogun
Saturday before England faced Norway

FIFA disciplinary chair Mohammad al Kamali refused to answer BBC questions about the decision that allowed Folarin Balogun to avoid suspension after his red card. The silence came after England’s Jarell Quansah received a two-match ban for a similar offence.

BBC sports editor Dan Roan asked whether FIFA president Gianni Infantino influenced the decision and why Balogun and Quansah were treated differently. Al Kamali gave no response, keeping pressure on FIFA’s disciplinary transparency.

Ken Bates, Chelsea and Leeds United
Saturday

Former Chelsea and Leeds United owner Ken Bates has died aged 94. Bates bought Chelsea for £1 in 1982, later selling to Roman Abramovich in 2003, before taking control of Leeds during another turbulent period.

Bates was one of English football’s most confrontational and influential modern figures, helping save Stamford Bridge while attracting controversy throughout his ownerships. His Chelsea era included major trophies, European stars and the transformation of the club’s stadium future.

Antonio Rattin, Boca Juniors and Argentina
Saturday

Argentina great Antonio Rattin has died aged 89, with Boca Juniors confirming the passing of one of their historic midfield icons. Rattin played at the 1962 and 1966 World Cups and spent his entire club career with Boca.

Rattin became globally known for his controversial 1966 World Cup dismissal against England, when language confusion helped inspire FIFA to introduce yellow and red cards in 1970. He later coached Boca briefly and entered politics.

Sadio Mane and Senegal
After Senegal’s World Cup exit

Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international football after Senegal’s World Cup exit. The 34-year-old ends a 14-year Lions of Teranga career with 130 caps and a legacy as one of African football’s defining modern stars.

Mane apologised to Senegal supporters for any disappointments and said he sacrificed everything for the national shirt. His farewell follows a limited World Cup impact after injury, but he plans to remain involved through coaching or technical roles.

England, Norway and FIFA
Saturday in Miami

England and Norway face a World Cup quarter-final in Miami under intense heat and humidity, with temperatures expected near 33C and feeling closer to 41C. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the area on Saturday.

Conditions could push player welfare close to Fifpro’s danger threshold, with WBGT readings around 27C and thunderstorms also possible. FIFA has prepared cooling measures, while fans are being urged to hydrate and avoid heat exhaustion around Hard Rock Stadium.