Feed MRSS-S Noticias, english.elpais.com, sports en-us https://english.elpais.com Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:47:43 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-08-12/uefa-compensates-somali-referee-who-was-vetoed-by-the-us-during-world-cup.html Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:47:43 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-08-12/uefa-compensates-somali-referee-who-was-vetoed-by-the-us-during-world-cup.html Diego Fonseca Omar Artan is refereeing Wednesday’s Super Cup final in Salzburg between PSG and Aston Villa. The game is being played against a backdrop of tension between the European soccer governing body and FIFA boss Gianni Infantino Omar Artan is refereeing Wednesday’s Super Cup final in Salzburg between PSG and Aston Villa. The game is being played against a backdrop of tension between the European soccer governing body and FIFA boss Gianni Infantino UEFA FIFA Gianni Infantino Somalia Donald Trump Folarin Balogun Anadolu (Anadolu via Getty Images) dep110816 Referee Omar Artan, arriving in Mogadishu, Somalia, on June 10 after being vetoed by the U.S.  Referee Omar Artan, arriving in Mogadishu, Somalia, on June 10 after being vetoed by the U.S.  <p>At 9.00pm on Wednesday at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg, Austria, for the first time in history a non-European referee will officiate a Super Cup soccer final, a competition that began in 1973. Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was selected two months ago by the European football governing body UEFA to referee the match between the Champions League winner, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Europa League winner, Aston Villa. The decision carries great symbolism after the U.S. government denied the referee entry to its territory in June and prevented him from becoming the first from his country to officiate <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-27/us-faces-the-challenge-of-turning-soccer-into-a-mass-sport-following-the-success-of-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-27/us-faces-the-challenge-of-turning-soccer-into-a-mass-sport-following-the-success-of-the-world-cup.html">in a World Cup. </a></p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-08-12/uefa-compensates-somali-referee-who-was-vetoed-by-the-us-during-world-cup.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-31/goodbye-world-cup-hello-olympics-los-angeles-races-to-prepare-for-its-next-major-sporting-event-in-2028.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 07:12:59 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-31/goodbye-world-cup-hello-olympics-los-angeles-races-to-prepare-for-its-next-major-sporting-event-in-2028.html María Porcel Estepa After hosting eight FIFA matches, the California city is now turning its attention to the Olympic Games it will stage in two years, an event for which, despite its efforts, it is still not ready for After hosting eight FIFA matches, the California city is now turning its attention to the Olympic Games it will stage in two years, an event for which, despite its efforts, it is still not ready for Los Ángeles FIFA California LA28 US - LOS ANGELES - OLIMPICOS - EP Design of the pool set to be located in SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles for the 2028 Olympic Games. Design of the pool set to be located in SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles for the 2028 Olympic Games. <p>Los Angeles is a jumble of neighborhoods, styles, cities, people and problems that is hard to explain. But perhaps one example says it all. On July 16, a water main ruptured in West Hollywood, one of the city’s wealthiest, most central and trendiest areas. A break of barely three feet caused damage to homes and cars and opened up a massive sinkhole on Sunset Boulevard, one of Los Angeles’s main thoroughfares. The street remained closed for 10 days, bringing traffic to a standstill. If a rupture of less than a meter can cause that much disruption, what will happen when several million people descend on this sprawling, Frankenstein-like city — with its limited public transit system, scarce hotel capacity and already high costs — for the Olympic Games two years from now?</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-31/goodbye-world-cup-hello-olympics-los-angeles-races-to-prepare-for-its-next-major-sporting-event-in-2028.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/society/2026-07-29/living-through-a-world-cup-with-a-gambling-disorder-winning-is-the-worst-thing-that-can-happen-to-you.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:51:21 GMT https://english.elpais.com/society/2026-07-29/living-through-a-world-cup-with-a-gambling-disorder-winning-is-the-worst-thing-that-can-happen-to-you.html Bárbara Ayuso The major sporting event put gambling addicts on alert, many of whom now have new profiles linked to online betting The major sporting event put gambling addicts on alert, many of whom now have new profiles linked to online betting UN Internet China Primera división Iker Casillas Beatriz Festa () World Cup gambling disorder A user in front of online betting advertising. A user in front of online betting advertising. <p>Óscar’s euphoria after <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">Spain’s World Cup win</a> resembled other bursts of joy: ecstasy, the national team shirt and arms raised for a collective triumph. But it was also an intimate celebration, because this time he didn’t have any betting slips crumpled in his hands. “This is the first World Cup I’ve watched without betting; during Qatar it was really bad and I can’t even calculate how deep in debt I got — I bet on every match,” he says. He is 25 and describes himself as “a gambler in advanced rehabilitation, although I’ll be a gambler forever.” Agustín, 37, had to watch it in a safe environment, at home with his girlfriend. He has been in therapy for nine months for <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-05-08/americans-bet-220-billion-on-sports-in-five-years-since-legalization.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-05-08/americans-bet-220-billion-on-sports-in-five-years-since-legalization.html">sports-betting addiction</a>, but has been gambling for almost a decade. He has no access to money or cards. “I didn’t even consider going to a bar to watch it, because now there are machines there that let you bet and no one asks for ID,” he says. At 39, Carlos calls himself a “rehabilitated gambler” and takes detours on the street to avoid passing betting shops. If someone saw Sergio, 37, enjoying the final at home with his son, they would notice nothing unusual. He is blind and, listening to the match, feared it would go to penalties because that could recreate the adrenaline rush he gets from betting. He hasn’t bet since March, his phone app reminds him.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/society/2026-07-29/living-through-a-world-cup-with-a-gambling-disorder-winning-is-the-worst-thing-that-can-happen-to-you.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-28/toni-kurzs-agony-on-the-north-face-of-the-eiger-90-years-since-mountaineerings-greatest-tragedy.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:38:16 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-28/toni-kurzs-agony-on-the-north-face-of-the-eiger-90-years-since-mountaineerings-greatest-tragedy.html Óscar Gogorza In July 1936, the four climbers attempting the first ascent of the face lost their lives, giving rise to a horror story that shaped the way mountaineering was portrayed for decades… until Ueli Steck came along In July 1936, the four climbers attempting the first ascent of the face lost their lives, giving rise to a horror story that shaped the way mountaineering was portrayed for decades… until Ueli Steck came along Adolf Hitler Joseph Goebbels Waffen SS DEA / ALBERT CEOLAN (De Agostini via Getty Images) Frontal view of the Eiger (3,967 m). Frontal view of the Eiger (3,967 m). <p>The north face of the Eiger, an intimidating, seemingly endless wall of rock, ice, and snow with 1,800 meters of vertical relief in the Swiss Bernese Alps, had not yet been climbed in 1936 — a “problem” to be solved, and a <a href="https://english.elpais.com/culture/2025-03-14/it-wasnt-just-terror-the-nazis-won-the-cultural-battle-in-a-year.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/culture/2025-03-14/it-wasnt-just-terror-the-nazis-won-the-cultural-battle-in-a-year.html">propaganda opportunity</a> for the Nazi regime. The events of that July, the 90th anniversary of which is this week, for decades shaped the way mountaineering was portrayed, as if the sport had to be forever tied to drama, epic scenarios, suffering, and loss. In recent years the burden of the tragic story of the north face of the Eiger’s conquest has only begun to ease with the advent of a new approach to mountaineering and risk management. Grand feats stopped being a matter of sheer chance and gave way to scientific training grounded in deep knowledge of the environment, equipment vastly superior to that used nine decades ago, precise weather forecasting, and the absence of inappropriate extrinsic <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2025-06-14/annapurna-1950-the-warlike-and-deceitful-account-of-the-first-ascent-of-an-eight-thousander.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2025-06-14/annapurna-1950-the-warlike-and-deceitful-account-of-the-first-ascent-of-an-eight-thousander.html">motivations such as nationalism</a>.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-28/toni-kurzs-agony-on-the-north-face-of-the-eiger-90-years-since-mountaineerings-greatest-tragedy.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-27/us-faces-the-challenge-of-turning-soccer-into-a-mass-sport-following-the-success-of-the-world-cup.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 13:31:58 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-27/us-faces-the-challenge-of-turning-soccer-into-a-mass-sport-following-the-success-of-the-world-cup.html Jesús-Sérvulo González Moreno An Ipsos poll reveals that nearly 60% of Americans believe the tournament will increase interest in the sport An Ipsos poll reveals that nearly 60% of Americans believe the tournament will increase interest in the sport FIFA Donald Trump Gianni Infantino Super Bowl MLB NBA David Beckham Lionel Messi Antoine Griezmann Robert Lewandowski Inter Miami CF Dylan Martinez (REUTERS) Fans at a World Cup game in New Jersey. Fans at a World Cup game in New Jersey. <p>Two days before the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, Donald Trump hosted a cocktail reception at the Manhattan skyscraper that bears his name, in the heart of New York City. There, alongside his friend <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html">Gianni Infantino</a>, president of FIFA, he celebrated the organizational success of the biggest football tournament in history, featuring 48 national teams that played a total of 104 matches, more than ever before. Half-joking, half-serious, Trump told Infantino that the United States should host another World Cup. “Based on the numbers we will be requesting it again immediately,” he said.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-27/us-faces-the-challenge-of-turning-soccer-into-a-mass-sport-following-the-success-of-the-world-cup.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-27/eu-sanctions-fide-president-arkady-dvorkovich-who-opposed-the-ukraine-invasion.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 07:40:47 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-27/eu-sanctions-fide-president-arkady-dvorkovich-who-opposed-the-ukraine-invasion.html Leontxo García The Russian former Kremlin insider, sidelined by Moscow after condemning the war in 2022, steps aside as chief of world chess’s governing body, with Viswanathan Anand taking over on an interim basis The Russian former Kremlin insider, sidelined by Moscow after condemning the war in 2022, steps aside as chief of world chess’s governing body, with Viswanathan Anand taking over on an interim basis FIDE Vladimir Putin Viswanathan Anand Magnus Carlsen Eng Chin An (Eng Chin An) FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE president, during the closing of the World Championship in Singapore in December 2024 Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE president, during the closing of the World Championship in Singapore in December 2024 <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/BRPZEN66WNHQRFBH7UN7774MNM.jpg?auth=3fa0ae4a3a0cc5d60fac5c9c0d991c714f0c1a434c6040744e8375b4ff839468" width="799" height="533" alt="Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE president, during the closing of the World Championship in Singapore in December 2024"></img><p>Chess has once again produced a story worthy of a novel, full of twists and ambiguities. Arkady Dvorkovich, 54, a highly respected figure in Russia for his professional achievements, has stepped down as president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), which represents 201 national federations, after being placed on the European Union’s sanctions list for “undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.”</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-27/eu-sanctions-fide-president-arkady-dvorkovich-who-opposed-the-ukraine-invasion.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/FAGIRPDZLND7VM5YWYR2O5UNPI.jpg?auth=712b9787c41ec37f86ddfca071a1a5db2a3218044c9a66b24918223eda4f5780" width="6731" height="5026" alt="Dvorkovich, accompanied by Anand, after his re-election in August 2022 in Chennai."></img> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-23/which-brand-won-the-world-cup-adidas-moves-ahead-of-nike-but-a-coffee-brand-with-latin-roots-pulled-off-the-big-shock.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 18:49:28 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-23/which-brand-won-the-world-cup-adidas-moves-ahead-of-nike-but-a-coffee-brand-with-latin-roots-pulled-off-the-big-shock.html Ana Franco With an estimated $5.2 billion at stake, Adidas reached the final on the shirts of Spain and Argentina and outpaced Nike on several commercial measures. Nevertheless, sales, public attention and purchase consideration pointed to other winners: a brewer and a coffee brand With an estimated $5.2 billion at stake, Adidas reached the final on the shirts of Spain and Argentina and outpaced Nike on several commercial measures. Nevertheless, sales, public attention and purchase consideration pointed to other winners: a brewer and a coffee brand Nike Adidas Ferrán Torres FIFA Kim Kardashian LeBron James Kylian Mbappé Haaland Cristiano Ronaldo TikTok Instagram AB InBev Coca-Cola Loewe Burberry Louis Vuitton VCG (VCG via Getty Images) Mundial de futbol Una tienda 'pop up' de Adidas, con el balón oficial del Mundial en gigante, en Nanjing, China. Una tienda 'pop up' de Adidas, con el balón oficial del Mundial en gigante, en Nanjing, China. <p>By the time <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/watch-ferran-torres-scores-the-goal-that-gives-spain-its-second-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/watch-ferran-torres-scores-the-goal-that-gives-spain-its-second-world-cup.html">Ferrán Torres scored the extra-time goal</a> that gave Spain its second World Cup in New Jersey, Adidas had already won the final. The German brand, one of FIFA’s commercial partners, supplied La Roja (its white second kit has become ubiquitous this summer) and also Argentina (it outfitted 14 of the 48 participating teams), and created the tournament’s official ball. Its main rival, the U.S. company Nike, technical provider for 12 teams, launched a campaign that featured Kylian Mbappé, Cristiano Ronaldo, Erling Haaland, LeBron James and <a href="https://english.elpais.com/people/2025-05-22/kim-kardashian-earns-her-law-degree-after-six-years.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/people/2025-05-22/kim-kardashian-earns-her-law-degree-after-six-years.html">Kim Kardashian</a>, but it was left without a team in the final match. On the pitch, then, Adidas prevailed last Sunday. Deciding which brand emerged victorious from the World Cup in sales, advertising, and awareness, however, requires looking at other measures.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-23/which-brand-won-the-world-cup-adidas-moves-ahead-of-nike-but-a-coffee-brand-with-latin-roots-pulled-off-the-big-shock.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/culture/2026-07-23/javier-bardem-addresses-controversy-around-the-world-cup-final-milei-is-not-all-of-the-argentine-population.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:19:57 GMT https://english.elpais.com/culture/2026-07-23/javier-bardem-addresses-controversy-around-the-world-cup-final-milei-is-not-all-of-the-argentine-population.html EL PAÍS The actor posts a video on Instagram to contextualize remarks he made in an interview that riled a lot of Argentines The actor posts a video on Instagram to contextualize remarks he made in an interview that riled a lot of Argentines Javier Bardem Javier Milei Argentina Rosalía AFP7 vía Europa Press (AFP7 vía Europa Press) France v Spain: Semi Final - FIFA World Cup 2026 Javier Bardem on July 14 during the semifinal against France. Javier Bardem on July 14 during the semifinal against France. <p>Controversy over <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">the World Cup final</a> between Spain and Argentina shows no sign of stopping. On Wednesday it was the Spanish singer Rosalía who apologized for a social media post that upset some people in Argentina, where she is scheduled to perform as part of a tour. On Thursday, it was Spanish actor Javier Bardem who felt the need to speak out after another controversy sparked by an interview in which he discussed the Sunday match.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/culture/2026-07-23/javier-bardem-addresses-controversy-around-the-world-cup-final-milei-is-not-all-of-the-argentine-population.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-22/spain-the-first-reigning-champion-to-host-a-world-cup-amid-many-uncertainties.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:36:33 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-22/spain-the-first-reigning-champion-to-host-a-world-cup-amid-many-uncertainties.html José Miguel Benítez Gómez The 2030 World Cup, which will be held on the Iberian Peninsula and in Morocco, still has many mysteries to resolve: the venues, the stadium for the final and how many teams will compete The 2030 World Cup, which will be held on the Iberian Peninsula and in Morocco, still has many mysteries to resolve: the venues, the stadium for the final and how many teams will compete FIFA Portugal Gianni Infantino Conmebol Carlos Queiroz RFEF Estadio Santiago Bernabéu Casablanca Bilbao San Sebastián Málaga CF Jesus Troyano/Real Madrid (Real Madrid via Getty Images) Spain first reigning champion to host a World Cup Panoramic view of the Santiago Bernabéu on May 25. Panoramic view of the Santiago Bernabéu on May 25. <p>After the whirlwind of 104 matches in just 39 days at the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, it is time to begin preparations for the next World Cup. In 2030, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-10-04/fifa-awards-the-2030-world-cup-to-spain-portugal-and-morocco.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-10-04/fifa-awards-the-2030-world-cup-to-spain-portugal-and-morocco.html">Spain, Portugal and Morocco will host a historic centennial tournament</a>, but many questions remain unanswered: which venues will be chosen, which stadium will stage the final, how many teams will take part... One thing is certain: Spain will be the first country whose national team, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">as reigning world champion</a>, will defend the title at home.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-22/spain-the-first-reigning-champion-to-host-a-world-cup-amid-many-uncertainties.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/the-vip-box-of-few-words-trump-and-sanchez-temporarily-put-aside-differences-during-world-cup-final.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:31:53 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/the-vip-box-of-few-words-trump-and-sanchez-temporarily-put-aside-differences-during-world-cup-final.html Jesús-Sérvulo González Moreno The US president broke protocol by patting the World Cup trophy before kick-off The US president broke protocol by patting the World Cup trophy before kick-off FIFA Pedro Sánchez Donald Trump Zohran Mamdani Claudia Sheinbaum Gianni Infantino Alejandro Ruesga (EL PAÍS) Saludo Trump Sanchez U.S. President Donald Trump greets Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in the presence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. U.S. President Donald Trump greets Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in the presence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/RQIHNSLODVCJDNADP7LVGP55KE.jpg?auth=b15ecdaa0473878bbbc5365a6c99b40326e0f7b1144fc9119e31ba417e2822a1" width="4367" height="2457" alt="U.S. President Donald Trump greets Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in the presence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. "></img><p>U.S. President Donald Trump played host on Sunday to the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">2026 World Cup final</a> between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The VIP box, enclosed by bulletproof glass in a stadium under heavy security, brought together a group of world leaders who share little common ground. Inside what felt like a political fishbowl, Trump sat alongside several leaders with whom he has had strained relations. It was a gathering that represented two opposing visions of the world.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/the-vip-box-of-few-words-trump-and-sanchez-temporarily-put-aside-differences-during-world-cup-final.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:21:17 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html Álvaro Corcuera ,Mikel Muñoz,Rafael Pineda Fajardo,David Álvarez Ferran Torres strikes in the 106th minute as La Roja dethrone the defending champions in a dramatic final in New Jersey Ferran Torres strikes in the 106th minute as La Roja dethrone the defending champions in a dramatic final in New Jersey FIFA Argentina Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal Luis de la Fuente Julio Cortez (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) directo final Spain's Ferran Torres (7) celebrates scoring their first goal during the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, Sunday, July 19, 2026. Spain's Ferran Torres (7) celebrates scoring their first goal during the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, Sunday, July 19, 2026. <p>Spain claimed their second<a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-06-17/who-will-win-the-world-cup-here-are-our-predictions.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-06-17/who-will-win-the-world-cup-here-are-our-predictions.html"> World Cup</a> title on Sunday after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a dramatic final in New York. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, ending a tense contest that had seemed destined for penalties and confirming Spain as the new world champions.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/lamine-emulates-pele-and-denies-messi-a-second-world-cup-title.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:52:15 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/lamine-emulates-pele-and-denies-messi-a-second-world-cup-title.html Juan I. Irigoyen Spain’s winger gets the better of the Argentine and matches the precocious achievement of the legendary Brazilian player Spain’s winger gets the better of the Argentine and matches the precocious achievement of the legendary Brazilian player FIFA Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal Argentina Pelé JAMES LANG (IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters) MESSI LAMINE Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi embrace after the match. Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi embrace after the match. <p>In New Jersey, soccer’s past and present converged with its most immediate future. In other words, Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal. And they did so on the biggest stage of all: the <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">World Cup final</a>. The first ever between two countries whose footballing histories are as deeply intertwined as they are rich.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/lamine-emulates-pele-and-denies-messi-a-second-world-cup-title.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/spains-victory-the-worlds-victory.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:41:24 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/spains-victory-the-worlds-victory.html EL PAÍS La Roja’s second World Cup is a triumph for an exemplary group and a lasting moment of collective emotion La Roja’s second World Cup is a triumph for an exemplary group and a lasting moment of collective emotion Lionel Messi Argentina Lamine Yamal Luis de la Fuente Lionel Scaloni FIFA Sr. García (EL PAÍS) españa 20072026 <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/P4X526KXAZEWXKZSZA44PUVQLY.jpg?auth=b8fec43e0b5ec943e64327ec3adc45e6d0d3f04ef08fbe3639c3771524235ccd" width="1358" height="1225" alt="."></img><p>It was no dream. Spain are <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/spain-beat-argentina-to-win-the-world-cup.html">world champions once again</a> after defeating a spirited Argentina in an agonizing, heroic final in New Jersey and overcoming the greatest legend in soccer history, Lionel Messi. It is the triumph of coach Luis de la Fuente and an extraordinary group of players who, in a sport dominated by stars and social media divas, have put team values, collective intelligence, and a commitment to hard work above all else. But soccer is never just soccer, and La Roja’s victory, 16 years after the team’s win in South Africa, has sparked a moment of shared emotion that runs counter to the bad temper dominating public discourse, and which need not fade once the celebrations end. It is not difficult to see in this team, in the diversity of its origins and regions, in the character of its stars, in its style of play, and in its ability to connect with supporters and citizens alike, a reflection of what this country is and what it can become in the 21st century.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-20/spains-victory-the-worlds-victory.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/watch-ferran-torres-scores-the-goal-that-gives-spain-its-second-world-cup.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:46:48 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-19/watch-ferran-torres-scores-the-goal-that-gives-spain-its-second-world-cup.html EL PAÍS The Barça forward capitalized on a Nico Williams layoff after a cross from Pedro Porro The Barça forward capitalized on a Nico Williams layoff after a cross from Pedro Porro FIFA Ferrán Torres Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal Emiliano Martínez Rodríguez Argentina VÍDEO SOLO DISPONIBLE EN ESPAÑA Ferran Torres' goal that gave Spain its second World Cup title Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez (23) fails to save a shot by Spain's Ferran Torres (7). Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez (23) fails to save a shot by Spain's Ferran Torres (7). <p></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-15/how-the-spain-coach-spent-over-a-decade-recruiting-the-players-who-will-be-at-the-world-cup-final.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:28:18 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-15/how-the-spain-coach-spent-over-a-decade-recruiting-the-players-who-will-be-at-the-world-cup-final.html David Álvarez Luis de la Fuente began his winning streak in 2015 with Unai Simón, Merino and Rodri in the U-19s and has been slowy adding players to build a powerful squad: ‘As a team, it is unstoppable’ Luis de la Fuente began his winning streak in 2015 with Unai Simón, Merino and Rodri in the U-19s and has been slowy adding players to build a powerful squad: ‘As a team, it is unstoppable’ FIFA Luis de la Fuente Dallas Unai Simón Mikel Merino Fabián Ruiz Marc Cucurella Alejandro Ruesga (EL PAÍS) De la Fuente Spain national team World Cup Luis de la Fuente with Fabián Ruiz in Spain's semifinal against France. Luis de la Fuente with Fabián Ruiz in Spain's semifinal against France. <img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/UCMENETF2FB4BGPR4BIFCS3P5M.jpg?auth=11a8aad6f6d82fef0eb78dee35eddb4161dd3fd3842c86adf5d516531134b1ea" width="3543" height="2204" alt="Luis de la Fuente with Fabián Ruiz in Spain's semifinal against France."></img><p>Luis de la Fuente’s international career began badly in a semifinal against France, and he came within a step of reaching the highest summit also in a semifinal against France. And in both matches, separated by 13 years, Aymeric Laporte was there. This Tuesday, after qualifying <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html">for the World Cup</a> final with a commanding performance at the Dallas stadium, the Spain coach took a moment to recall where they had come from, the moment he began recruiting the players for this dazzling squad. “We embraced,” he said. “And we told each other: ‘Who would have thought, back in 2015, that 11 years later we would find ourselves in the final of the World Cup after the journey we’ve had?’”</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-15/how-the-spain-coach-spent-over-a-decade-recruiting-the-players-who-will-be-at-the-world-cup-final.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><img src="https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/v2/W7OO5UMFOZCZ3OYRMSGHQITAZA.jpg?auth=b2cedfbf4e67b6dd85c7dbddaeb1f8146220a37be0e6f5e8b52478419e9177e4" width="3543" height="2401" alt="Luis de la Fuente with Mikel Merino in Spain's semifinal against France."></img> https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-14/former-spanish-pm-rajoy-clouds-spain-france-semifinal-with-racist-article.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:23:32 GMT https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-14/former-spanish-pm-rajoy-clouds-spain-france-semifinal-with-racist-article.html Daniel Verdú The World Cup match takes on new meaning after a column in which the conservative politician said France is a team ‘without Frenchmen’ The World Cup match takes on new meaning after a column in which the conservative politician said France is a team ‘without Frenchmen’ Mariano Rajoy Pedro Sánchez Sébastien Lecornu Lamine Yamal Nico Williams Jean Marie Le Pen Michel Platini Emmanuel Macron Zinedine Zidane PP Vox José Manuel Albares Martin Meissner (AP Photo/Martin Meissner) Kylian Mbappé celebrates France’s victory over Morocco last Thursday. Kylian Mbappé celebrates France’s victory over Morocco last Thursday. <p>France has grown accustomed in recent weeks to living on the edge. To an endless “all or nothing” scenario that will play out again this Tuesday, July 14, when the country’s National Day is celebrated against the backdrop of a <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-06-17/who-will-win-the-world-cup-here-are-our-predictions.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-06-17/who-will-win-the-world-cup-here-are-our-predictions.html">World Cup semifinal</a> against Spain. Two neighbors who view each other with suspicion, with a long list of historical grievances between them, will be playing for more than just a spot in the final. It will be either the culmination of national euphoria — in which Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will participate — or the bitterness of defeat, even if it takes place over 3,000 miles away.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2026-07-14/former-spanish-pm-rajoy-clouds-spain-france-semifinal-with-racist-article.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-13/tradition-money-and-necessary-change-the-tennis-puzzle-still-doesnt-quite-fit-together.html Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:07:38 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-13/tradition-money-and-necessary-change-the-tennis-puzzle-still-doesnt-quite-fit-together.html Alejandro Ciriza Istúriz Novak Djokovic has called for an ‘integral overhaul’ of a sport caught between several currents: romanticism, an atomized system, and players who feel ‘used’ Novak Djokovic has called for an ‘integral overhaul’ of a sport caught between several currents: romanticism, an atomized system, and players who feel ‘used’ Wimbledon Novak Djokovic Álex Corretja Carlos Alcaraz Gerard Piqué Toni Nadal Martina Navratilova Rory McIlroy Toby Melville (REUTERS) Novak Djokovic, during his fourth‑round match against Roman Safiullin. Novak Djokovic, during his fourth‑round match against Roman Safiullin. <p>Inside the bowels of the All England Club, veteran journalist Richard Evans — indefatigable at 87 — turns to Àlex Corretja during a conversation in the dining room and, before digging into his plate, murmurs: “We need Carlos…” And he’s right: today’s tennis needs the incomparable magic of Alcaraz to return, just as, lately, people have been studying and proposing ways to energize, unify, and modernize a sport long chained to tradition. Society changes, audiences demand new stimuli, and the rulers — tournaments, governing bodies, organizations, and investors — want to squeeze the concept of the industry to previously unimagined limits. In other words, to multiply the number of zeros.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-13/tradition-money-and-necessary-change-the-tennis-puzzle-still-doesnt-quite-fit-together.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-10/the-secrets-behind-novak-djokovics-miraculous-39-year-old-physique-i-work-with-my-body-not-against-it.html Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:23:21 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-10/the-secrets-behind-novak-djokovics-miraculous-39-year-old-physique-i-work-with-my-body-not-against-it.html Alejandro Ciriza Istúriz Despite losing to Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals, the Serbian still surprises with his exacting preparation, preventive measures and use of tech Despite losing to Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals, the Serbian still surprises with his exacting preparation, preventive measures and use of tech Wimbledon Novak Djokovic Jannik Sinner Boris Becker Carlos Alcaraz Toby Melville (REUTERS) Novak Djokovic Djokovic in his quarter-final match against Roman Safiullin. Djokovic in his quarter-final match against Roman Safiullin. <p>Novak Djokovic has never been the most muscle-bound tennis player, nor the fastest, nor the most powerful. That being said, he has always been the strongest. “He’s like a Ferrari,” said Ulises Badio, the Argentinian physical therapist who worked with the athlete for five years. Djokovic is, without a doubt, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-11-13/novak-djokovic-gets-his-trophy-after-securing-year-end-no-1-ranking-for-a-record-extending-8th-time.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-11-13/novak-djokovic-gets-his-trophy-after-securing-year-end-no-1-ranking-for-a-record-extending-8th-time.html">a standout player</a>. At 39 years of age, and despite the inevitable odds at this point in his career, the man known as Nole continues competing against <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-07-12/youth-on-the-rise-tennis-consolidates-its-new-era.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2023-07-12/youth-on-the-rise-tennis-consolidates-its-new-era.html">rivals half his age</a>, and shocking the world with his continued ability to rise to the greatest challenge. So it was on Tuesday, when he defeated Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime in a fierce battle of five hours and 15 minutes, the longest match ever to be played at Wimbledon.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-10/the-secrets-behind-novak-djokovics-miraculous-39-year-old-physique-i-work-with-my-body-not-against-it.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p><h3>A WEEKEND OF HEAT</h3><p></p><p>The heat that has enveloped the first two weeks of competition will also be present for its final matches this weekend. A temperature of 89.6 degrees is forecasted for the women’s final, and 87.8 for the men’s. On Friday, the thermometer is anticipated to reach 91.4 degrees. The record is 96.3, which was registered in July 2015.</p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-08/world-cup-spurs-mexican-americans-to-reconnect-putting-on-the-mexican-jersey-this-time-took-on-a-different-meaning.html Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:15:17 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-08/world-cup-spurs-mexican-americans-to-reconnect-putting-on-the-mexican-jersey-this-time-took-on-a-different-meaning.html Alfredo Corchado Mexico’s historic run has inspired millions of migrants and their descendants to seek out and rebuild their roots with their country of origin Mexico’s historic run has inspired millions of migrants and their descendants to seek out and rebuild their roots with their country of origin FIFA México Los Ángeles Donald Trump El Paso CHRIS TORRES (EFE) World Cup Fans celebrate a Mexico goal against England in Seattle on July 5. Fans celebrate a Mexico goal against England in Seattle on July 5. <p>Mexico’s improbable World Cup winning streak ended Sunday with <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-03/from-hooligans-to-exemplary-fans-the-english-return-to-mexico-after-40-years.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-03/from-hooligans-to-exemplary-fans-the-english-return-to-mexico-after-40-years.html">a loss to England</a>, but it didn’t keep the team’s heart and tenacity from delivering one successful outcome: A notable increase in Mexican-Americans venturing south to reconnect with their roots, language and culture, longtime observers and travel figures show. </p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-08/world-cup-spurs-mexican-americans-to-reconnect-putting-on-the-mexican-jersey-this-time-took-on-a-different-meaning.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/naomi-osaka-grows-under-the-inspiration-of-kill-bill-playing-like-this-she-can-win-wimbledon.html Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:19:07 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/naomi-osaka-grows-under-the-inspiration-of-kill-bill-playing-like-this-she-can-win-wimbledon.html Alejandro Ciriza Istúriz Inspired by Tarantino’s film, the Japanese-born, US-raised player recovers the most intimidating version of herself on a surface where she didn’t feel comfortable. She will play Muchová for a place in the semifinals Inspired by Tarantino’s film, the Japanese-born, US-raised player recovers the most intimidating version of herself on a surface where she didn’t feel comfortable. She will play Muchová for a place in the semifinals Wimbledon Naomi Osaka Tennis World Tour Quentin Tarantino Kill Bill Martina Navratilova TOLGA AKMEN (EFE) Naomi Osaka Naomi Osaka sprints during a match at Wimbledon. Naomi Osaka sprints during a match at Wimbledon. <p>It’s midmorning at the Somerset Road entrance to Wimbledon, and there is a buzz because it is no ordinary day. The king is back — <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-01-23/summer-relaxation-and-cutting-edge-style-why-roger-federer-dubbed-australia-the-happy-slam.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-01-23/summer-relaxation-and-cutting-edge-style-why-roger-federer-dubbed-australia-the-happy-slam.html">Roger Federer.</a> Impeccably suited, the Swiss genius walks toward the Centre Court facilities with that unique, buoyant gait of his, flanked by an elegantly uniformed entourage (all wearing sunglasses) in a scene that echoes <i>Reservoir Dogs</i> and that opening set to <i>Little Green Bag</i>. The movie that now inspires Naomi Osaka — the shooting star who burst on the scene and then, for reasons not entirely clear, vanished — is also by Tarantino. In her laudable effort to return to the top of the tennis world, the Japanese player has been walking the runway and these days wears a kimono with a specific origin: <i>Kill Bill</i>.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/naomi-osaka-grows-under-the-inspiration-of-kill-bill-playing-like-this-she-can-win-wimbledon.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:35:16 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html Ladislao Javier Moñino The head of world soccer lived in Madrid for three months before becoming the face of the Champions League draws and, much later, one of President Donald Trump’s closest allies The head of world soccer lived in Madrid for three months before becoming the face of the Champions League draws and, much later, one of President Donald Trump’s closest allies FIFA FIFA Football Donald Trump Gianni Infantino DPA vía Europa Press (DPA vía Europa Press) 2026 FIFA World Cup - Mexico vs. England FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the Azteca Stadium box during Sunday’s Mexico–England match. FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the Azteca Stadium box during Sunday’s Mexico–England match. <p>Gianni Infantino had a poker face as he watched Mexico take on England at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday. By then, controversy had already erupted over <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/memes-of-the-trump-card-that-saved-balogun.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/memes-of-the-trump-card-that-saved-balogun.html">FIFA’s decision to clear U.S. forward Folarin Balogun</a> to face Belgium on Tuesday after his red-card suspension was overturned.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/gianni-infantino-from-la-liga-intern-to-fifas-balogun-debacle.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/belgium-crushes-the-united-states-after-trumps-controversial-intervention-with-fifa.html Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:25:09 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/belgium-crushes-the-united-states-after-trumps-controversial-intervention-with-fifa.html Andrés Burgo Pochettino’s side falls well short of its earlier performances and bows out in the round of 16 Pochettino’s side falls well short of its earlier performances and bows out in the round of 16 FIFA Donald Trump Gianni Infantino Mauricio Pochettino Lee Smith (REUTERS) FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 16 - United States v Belgium Romelu Lukaku celebrates Belgium’s fourth goal against the United States. Romelu Lukaku celebrates Belgium’s fourth goal against the United States. <p>Soccer still has defenses against injustice. Or against the most <a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/trumps-fifa-intervention-sparks-a-world-cup-scandal-us-president-admits-he-called-infantino-to-request-a-review-of-baloguns-red-card.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/trumps-fifa-intervention-sparks-a-world-cup-scandal-us-president-admits-he-called-infantino-to-request-a-review-of-baloguns-red-card.html">blatant intrusion</a> from political power into a World Cup that anyone can remember. On Monday evening in Seattle, Belgium earned on the pitch what the United States had also tried to secure from the White House: the Red Devils thrashed their opponents 4–1 and advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Spain this Friday in Los Angeles.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-07/belgium-crushes-the-united-states-after-trumps-controversial-intervention-with-fifa.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/memes-of-the-trump-card-that-saved-balogun.html Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:01:18 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/memes-of-the-trump-card-that-saved-balogun.html EL PAÍS Social media users have used AI to react to the US president's mediation with FIFA to review the sanctions imposed on the American goal scorer in the most recent match Social media users have used AI to react to the US president's mediation with FIFA to review the sanctions imposed on the American goal scorer in the most recent match FIFA Folarin Balogun Donald Trump Gianni Infantino Social media reacts to FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's one-game ban An AI-generated photo making fun of Trump's call to Infantino requesting a review of the red card against Balogun. An AI-generated photo making fun of Trump's call to Infantino requesting a review of the red card against Balogun. <p></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/trumps-fifa-intervention-sparks-a-world-cup-scandal-us-president-admits-he-called-infantino-to-request-a-review-of-baloguns-red-card.html Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:59:23 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/trumps-fifa-intervention-sparks-a-world-cup-scandal-us-president-admits-he-called-infantino-to-request-a-review-of-baloguns-red-card.html Jesús-Sérvulo González Moreno The long-standing friendship between the two leaders fuels suspicions over the decision to allow the US team’s leading scorer to play in the game against Belgium Monday night The long-standing friendship between the two leaders fuels suspicions over the decision to allow the US team’s leading scorer to play in the game against Belgium Monday night FIFA Gianni Infantino Donald Trump Folarin Balogun Bosnia Herzegovina Leah Millis (REUTERS) FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump holds red card as he meets with FIFA President Infantino in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington U.S. President Donald Trump displays a red card gifted to him by FIFA president Gianni Infantino during a visit to the White House in 2018. U.S. President Donald Trump displays a red card gifted to him by FIFA president Gianni Infantino during a visit to the White House in 2018. <p>The new scandal rocking the 2026 World Cup is not on the pitch. This time it involves world football’s top official, Gianni Infantino, over the governing body’s decision to reverse the one-game suspension of <a href="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-06-24/folarin-balogun-the-us-striker-who-wouldnt-be-american-if-it-were-up-to-trump.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/usa/2026-06-24/folarin-balogun-the-us-striker-who-wouldnt-be-american-if-it-were-up-to-trump.html">Folarin Balogun</a>, the United States’ leading scorer, after a phone call from his friend Donald Trump.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-06/trumps-fifa-intervention-sparks-a-world-cup-scandal-us-president-admits-he-called-infantino-to-request-a-review-of-baloguns-red-card.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p> https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-03/from-hooligans-to-exemplary-fans-the-english-return-to-mexico-after-40-years.html Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:28:13 GMT https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-03/from-hooligans-to-exemplary-fans-the-english-return-to-mexico-after-40-years.html Verónica Garrido In the 1986 World Cup, England supporters became violent, reinforcing security measures in Mexico. Today the face of one of the most feared fan cohorts has changed  In the 1986 World Cup, England supporters became violent, reinforcing security measures in Mexico. Today the face of one of the most feared fan cohorts has changed  FIFA México Argentina Liverpool Monte Fresco (Mirrorpix vía Getty Images) English return to Mexico England fans during the game against Argentina, at the Azteca Stadium, on June 22, 1986. England fans during the game against Argentina, at the Azteca Stadium, on June 22, 1986. <p>They arrived with shaved heads, polo shirts and tattoos to drink and fight in the streets. It was 1986 and hordes of English hooligans landed in Mexico for the World Cup. They passed through the city of Monterrey flexing their muscles until they reached Mexico City, where they engaged in a number of brawls with the Argentinian fans. On July 5, the England team returns to <a href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-11-02/azteca-stadium-residents-vs-the-2026-world-cup-theyre-getting-rich-at-our-expense.html" target="_self" rel="" title="https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-11-02/azteca-stadium-residents-vs-the-2026-world-cup-theyre-getting-rich-at-our-expense.html">the Azteca Stadium</a> to play Mexico, but they will be supported by an altogether different type of fan. The hooligans who terrorized Mexico in 1986 now appear to be extinct.</p><p><a href="https://english.elpais.com/sports/2026-07-03/from-hooligans-to-exemplary-fans-the-english-return-to-mexico-after-40-years.html" target="_blank">Seguir leyendo</a></p>