Association football competition for men's national teams
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The 2026 men's football World Cup will be the biggest ever staged. For the first time, 48 teams will compete, playing more than 100 matches across North America.But the expanded scale comes at a cost. Ticket prices are far higher than at the last World Cup in Qatar. With matches also spread across the US, Mexico and Canada, attending the tournament is becoming unaffordable for many global fans.FIFA says higher revenues will be reinvested to grow the game worldwide and has released some lower-priced tickets for dedicated supporters, but some fan groups say this isn't going far enough. This week on The Inquiry, we're asking: Is the 2026 World Cup an own goal?Contributors: Dr Christina Philippou, associate professor in sport finance at the University of Portsmouth, UK Dr Victor Matheson, professor of economics at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, US Dr Johan Rewilak, associate professor of sport management at Loughborough University, UK Miguel Delaney, chief football writer, The Independent newspaper in the UKPresenter: Tanya Beckett Producer: Matt Toulson Researcher: Evie Yabsley Editor: Tom Bigwood Technical Producer: Cameron Ward Production Management: Phoebe Lomas and Liam Morrey(Photo: FIFA World Cup Trophy is displayed during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Credit: Pool/Getty Images)
When it comes to FIFA World Cup base camps, Kansas City can flex. Three of the world's top-seven teams — Argentina, England and Netherlands — have made it official: They're summer camping in KC.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, columnist Sam McDowell explains how Kansas City created the conditions to land those teams — and what it means to have them and their fans coming to the Heartland.Also, Kansas State reporter Kellis Robinett goes inside the coaching change at K-State. Jerome Tang is out, and the Wildcats are in the market for a new men's basketball coach. Complicating matters: Tang was fired with cause for postgame press conference comments, and he plans to fight the school for his $18.67 million buy out.0:02 — Intro1:07 — What teams will basecamp conversation with Sam 9:37 — How Jackstack might've helped England chose KC 16:58 — What led up to K-state hiring their head basketball coach with Kellis29:36 - What's on Blair's Radar this week
This is a strategy we have used multiple times in the past that has rendered success, and we are preparing to do it again. With the FIFA World Cup 2026 around the corner there are a couple of hidden ways to play this in the crypto market. By positionng ourselves before the masses catch on, we stand to see a significant portfolio boost.
Hey it's Ron; earlier in the week I'd highlighted some sound legislative offerings from Republican women in the Georgia general assembly that I hoped Democrats would join in on and push across the finish line. There's another, giving pharmacists the ability to prescribe HIV prevention medication, again, penned by a Republican. This is encouraging to see. What's discouraging, of course, is that the same Georgia GOP saw fit earlier in the week to "poison-pill" a bill both parties were enthusiastic about - HB 54 - by adding anti-trans language into it. To discuss some of that refreshing (and rare) bipartisanship - but also the more troubling legislation making its way through this session, is Dr. Michelle Au, representative for Georgia's 50th House District, and host of the new podcast "Georgia Diagnosis."Rev. Senator Raphael Warnock added an amendment to DHS funding in an attempt end DHS/ICE purchasing warehouses in Oakwood and Social Circle, GA, two small communities sure to be overwhelmed by facilities their infrastructure cannot handle; the kind of treatment op/ed writer Patricia Murphy called 'unconscionable.' Then I got my mental wellness break with comedian / political satirist Sterling Thrill. Between 'Bad Bunny' triggering Megyn Kelly & Pam Bondi going full "Karen" with her flash cards, we had plenty to chuckle about - and did. Lastly, an op/ed I saw from Mariah Parker & Dominique Grant at Fair Play ATL reminded us all that Atlanta's Olympic legacy isn't just tarnished by a bombing, but a lack of positive impact - and its negative impacts on housing affordability. It's their push to insist that Atlanta hosting eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 invests its windfall in positive change and a lack of ICE in the city's streets.
Who is the best Italian freekick taker in the Serie A of all time? And if Brazil win the FIFA World Cup, will Carlo Ancelotti be the greatest manager of all time? This is an extended clip from this week's Q & A episode of The Italian Football Podcast only available to members on YouTube or Patreon. If you want to support The Italian Football Podcast and get every episode, simply become a member on Patreon.com/TIFP OR Spotify OR YouTube Memberships. Your support makes The Italian Football Podcast possible. Follow us: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Chris fires up the talkbacks and responds to listeners while sharing his excitement—and slight terror—about teaming up with Monks. He breaks down the surge in short-term rental bookings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and what skyrocketing demand could mean for host cities. Chris also dives into what we know so far about the El Paso airspace shutdown, vents about a very specific pillow pet peeve, and unpacks a concerning safety report from Anthropic revealing potential misuse risks tied to its Claude AI models. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's episode is a special interview with Tim Wall, owner of Pub Le Ski Lodge in La Tania in France's Les 3 Vallées ski area. During our conversation Tim shares his experience of running one the most famous bars in Les 3 Vallées for over 30 years. He reveals his favourite apres-ski bands; the annual opportunity to ‘Toss The Boss'; and some of the other businesses that he has run, including La Taiga, Lodge du Village and the Pit Stop. We find out how the La Tania charity day grew from to a massive event, hosted by Radio One's Jo Whiley and the truth behind Tim's appearance on ‘Gordon Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares'.SHOW NOTESPub Le Ski Lodge opened in December 1993 (2:30) Tim and Debbie previously worked in Val Morel for Neilson (3:30) Skiing in Valmorel (4:30) Building the Ski Lodge (6:30) Live music at the Ski Lodge, inc ‘Shibboleth' and ‘Wild Turkey' (10:30) ‘Superfly'…and ‘The Feeling' (11:30) ‘Bring Your Sisters' (13:30) ‘Toss the Boss' (14:30) Tim blowing the horn (14:15) Slebs, including Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex (17:30) La Tania Charity Day (18:45) The move to Meribel Village (21:00) Toffa from latania.co.uk was on the podcast in Episode 95 (22:30) Snow reports (24:15) “Get yourselves out here!” (24:30) Going to the FIFA World Cup (26:30) The Ski Lodge England flag (26:45) ‘The Pit Stop' (28:30) Lodge du Village (29:00) La Taiga (31:00) Hotel Montana (34:00) Gordon Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares (35:15) Living in south-west France (41:00) Debbie (41:30)FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow us on WhatsApp.Rob Fogg: “It's great to hear about the Tirol - we are in the process of planning next year's trip to either the Arlberg or Zillertal regions by train and all your episodes have been assisting us greatly.” Jack Harvey: “I visited Sauze last March and loved it. You can get a whole margherita cooked to order at Mavie's in Sansicario for €8 with great views towards the French border. I'd avoid the busy cafe at the top of Cessna/Claviere on your way to Montgenevre though.”There are now 299 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. If you'd like to get some insight on a particular destination, listen to an interview with an Olympian or find out about the latest kit, just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you're bound to find something there of interest. Don't forget, if you're booking ski hire this winter, you can save yourself some money by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST' at intersportrent.com or use this link for that discount to be automatically applied.
In today's episode, we explore how AI-driven fear is reshaping markets in 2026, with commercial real estate and wealth management stocks taking major hits following new AI tool releases. We also examine Toronto's plan to upgrade its notoriously unreliable transit ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Plus Loblaw integrates ChatGPT for grocery ordering, Ottawa scraps its $250 million digital prescription system, Anthropic reaches a $380 billion valuation, eBay Live launches in Canada, and Ontario lifts its seven-year tuition freeze.
Tottenham have parted ways with Thomas Frank, and the big question is: was he really the problem? The boys dig into what's actually happening at Spurs, whether the issues run deeper than the head coach, and which managers could realistically step in to fix things. Is this about tactics, recruitment, ownership — or something bigger?Then Austin FC striker Brandon Vazquez joins the show for an honest and revealing conversation. He opens up about recovering from his ACL injury, doing “quick maths” in his head about the World Cup timeline the moment he got hurt, and what it will take to fight his way back into the U.S. Men's National Team picture. Vazquez also shares what it was really like playing in Liga MX — from nonstop media attention to the intensity of fan culture — and how it compares to MLS. Plus, we get the full origin story of his “Superman” goal celebration (yes, including the capes).To close it out, the boys react to the 2026 MLS kit reveal and give their unfiltered best and worst picks. Which clubs nailed it? Which designs should've stayed in the concept phase? We're handing out praise, roasting questionable choices, and ranking the fits you'll be seeing all season long. Timestamps:(11:00) – Thomas Frank sacked! What is the issue at Tottenham?(20:00) - Discussing possible replacement for Tottenham(27:15) – Brandon Vazquez joins The Cooligans(51:30) – Revealing the best 2026 MLS kits(59:45) - Revealing the worst 2026 MLS kits Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:
For Alexander Abnos, senior sports editor at the Guardian US “removing the US as World Cup host would be eminently sad – and entirely justified”.The 2026 Fifa World Cup will be hosted this summer by Mexico, Canada and the US.But the killings by Ice agents of US citizens and their intimidatory presence on city streets has been well reported globally which may make travelling fans nervous. And that's if they get in at all: the US president Donald Trump has imposed travel bans on several countries – including Senegal and Ivory Coast which have qualified to play.And then there is the stratospherically high price of stadium tickets which make going to the game prohibitively expensive.In January, former Fifa president Sepp Blatter supported calls by Swiss anti-corruption lawyer Mark Pieth for fans to boycott matches taking place in the US. But calls for boycotts of big sporting events are not unusual. They were loud before the last World Cup in Qatar but didn't make much of an impression.Abnos explains why a US boycott won't happen.Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by John Casey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ben Steiner and Alexandre Gangué-Ruzic return for a two-part show this week, with the opening part focusing on the Canadian men's national team picture. The first topic zones in on Marcelo Flores's commitment to the team and what the future could hold for him, before they dive into the friendly against Ireland and Canada's determined preparation pathway for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Part 1 wraps up with a breakdown of the Canadian U17 boys' national team, which will not participate in the upcoming World Cup tournament. Part two to come at 12:01 am ET on Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lofty goals for the All Whites at this year's World Cup. New Zealand Football has confirmed a warm-up fixture against fourth-ranked England, nine days before their opening pool game against Iran. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Huge news for football in New Zealand, with the All Whites taking on England for the first time since 1991 in a FIFA World Cup warm up match in South Florida on June 7. It serves as another game in what is turning out to be a very strong build up to the World Cup with the All Whites having matches against Chile and Finland in March. Mike McGarry is a former All White who played in the last match against England - and he joined D'Arcy to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Airbnb losing ground – and why is Booking.com winning right now?On this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – James Varley is joined by Jamie Lane, Chief Economist at AirDNA, to break down what the data is really telling us about the short-term rental market.We cover:• Has Airbnb peaked?• Airbnb vs Booking.com vs Vrbo – who's winning and why• The impact of Airbnb's commission hike on US hosts• Guest behaviour and booking trends• The rise of themed rentals and lifestyle-led stays• Why direct bookings continue to grow• Jamie's predictions for 2026, including the impact of the FIFA World Cup in the US, Canada & Mexico• How to analyse your competition using AirDNAIf you're a short-term rental host, property manager, or investor, this episode is packed with data-backed insight you can actually act on.1:06 Has Airbnb peaked?1:58 Will the new things take off? 5:14 Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo right now7:31 Booking.com is winning right now 3:3111:26 The impact of Airbnb's commission hike for US, property management software-connected hosts15:55 Bookings were relatively strong after US hosts didn't hike their rates17:58 Analysing strongly themed rentals, such as those aimed at bachelorette / hen parties 22:28 Lifestyle boutique hotel rooms are being themed 24:29 2026 trends to help short term rental hosts and property managers30:03 Guest behaviour 36:18 The growth of direct bookings 39:42 Jamie's predictions for 2026, including disruptions like the FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico 42:38 Favourite brand in the STR industry: Airbnb44:16 Shout-out: Brandreth Canaley45:27 Check out your competition on AirDNA: https://www.airdna.co/Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook?You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Jamie Lane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/AirDNA: https://www.airdna.co/Episode to check next: The 2026 Holiday Let Compliance Checklist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITvlxKPA8v0&t=1sThe Host Planet Podcast is where Airbnb hosts, Booking.com hosts, Vrbo hosts, and short-term rental operators come to learn what actually works. Each episode features expert insights from people actively building, managing, and scaling short-term rentals, covering everything from Airbnb hosting fundamentals to advanced rental strategies. Whether you're focused on guest satisfaction, rental management, or smarter automation tips, the show delivers practical advice you can apply immediately to improve performance and increase Airbnb bookings.Across the series, we explore Airbnb host tips, listing optimization, price optimization, and Airbnb listing optimization – alongside real-world investing insights and behind-the-scenes Airbnb secrets you won't hear elsewhere. From hosted conversations with industry leaders and Airbnb ambassadors to actionable guidance on bookings and short-term rental growth, Host Planet helps hosts navigate short term rentals with confidence and clarity.The show is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS
This episode of Destination on the Left is a special roadshow edition recorded live at the American Bus Association's Marketplace 2026 in Reno, Nevada. I'm joined by a fantastic group of industry leaders to hear first-hand how collaboration is playing a critical, mission-driven role in the future of group travel, moving beyond a "nice-to-have" and becoming essential for success. My guests discuss the economic impact of group travel and the importance of restoring cross-border connections between the U.S. and Canada, to creative regional itineraries, and share ideas for navigating the political and economic headwinds facing the industry. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How ABA's leadership is addressing current challenges in group travel, including restoring the crucial relationship between the U.S. and Canada Why collaboration between industry partners, including operators, suppliers, associations, and destinations, is mission-critical for the future of group travel Trends are shaping group travel in 2026 and beyond, such as the rise of experiential itineraries, smaller group sizes, and the impacts of major events like the FIFA World Cup and MA250 How regional and cross-border partnerships are creating unique travel experiences and tour products that benefit entire ecosystems, not just individual destinations Collaborative initiatives, such as Tour in 64 are demonstrating the value of teamwork How industry organizations like ABA can accelerate personal and professional growth The Future of Group Travel is Collaboration The ABA 2026 Marketplace is filled with optimism, but nobody shies away from today's realities. Fred Ferguson sets the stage by underscoring the economic importance of group travel—$158 billion in economic output and 800,000 jobs in North America. The entire travel flywheel, operators, destinations, restaurants, and attractions, only spins when everyone works in sync. Fred Ferguson and Terry Fischer both stress that now, more than ever, strategic alliances and industry unity are essential for lasting impact. It's no longer enough to operate in silos. As Terry puts it, "It takes a village," and internal and external collaboration are the most important ingredients in weathering disruptions, from politics to pandemics. Collaboration in Action My guests also share what deep collaboration looks like in practice. Across the group travel ecosystem, leaders are getting creative. We hear how DMOs are embracing regionalism, and Todd Read from SoIN Tourism and Whitney Lubbers of Dubois County described how Tour in 64, a partnership among destinations along Interstate 64, helps smaller markets punch above their weight. By pooling marketing budgets, sharing top experiences, and even jointly running an ABA booth, collective impact outweighs any competition for hotel nights. With mega-events like the FIFA World Cup and MA250 (America's 250th anniversary) on the horizon, Stacey David detailed how municipalities, nonprofits, small businesses, and big attractions can co-create fan zone festivals that benefit everyone. Every stakeholder has a seat at the table for shared successes. The Power of Relationships The ABA conference is a great way to build relations, get involved, and engage with others in the travel and tourism industry. Jim Warren of Anderson Vacations credits strong partnerships as the industry's lifeblood, helping everyone survive the inevitable economic and political storms. Those connections are formed and deepened at conferences like ABA Marketplace. Investments in community, from Women in Buses initiatives to association days, make all the difference for newcomers and veterans alike. Leaders are putting collaboration-first strategies in place—whether it's regional joint marketing, creating new products, or advocating for the sector at the policy level. Resources: Fred Ferguson: https://www.buses.org/staff/fred-ferguson-mba-ms/ Terry Fischer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-fischer-31895b122/ Patricia Cowley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pcowley/ Jim Warren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-warren-1b2b59187/ Stacey David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-david-940a214/ Todd Read: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-read-182ab73a/ Whitney Lubbers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-lubbers-07374360/ We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
The sale is complete for a Walton County, Ga. industrial warehouse that will become a new detention center for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Local officials confirmed the purchase of the rural warehouse, located approximately 40 miles east of Atlanta. But Social Circle city officials say they’re against it, and Gareth Fenley, a local organizer with Indivisible Boldly Blue, shares on “Closer Look” how she plans to fight it. Plus, Atlanta area hospitals say their staff and resources are ready to respond to the 300,000 FIFA World Cup visitors expected here this summer. Preparations have been ongoing for months in advance, including a training simulation involving two patients who entered the U.S. with an infectious disease. Doctors from Grady Hospital, Piedmont Hospital and the Emory University School of Medicine join the program to discuss their plan to keep residents and visitors healthy during the games. Then, a new ProPublica report is linking a conservative researcher to the seizure of Fulton County’s election records. The author tells us about Kevin Moncla, who has long accused Fulton County of election fraud.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The All Whites have locked in a fixture with fourth-ranked England in Florida as part of their World Cup football preparations. The match will be held on June 7, New Zealand time, at an as yet unconfirmed venue. New Zealand Football boss Andrew Pragnell told Mike Hosking they've earned the fixture. He says every team is looking for fixes ahead of those critical world cup games, but over the last few years the All Whites have been attracting stronger and stronger opposition from around the world. It's the highest ranked opponent the All Whites have secured in 17 years, and the first time they've played England since 1991. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Even if hotel demand expectations don't come in as hopes for many FIFA World Cup markets, Hotel Equities CEO Ben Rafter thinks 2026 will be a year that exceeds expectations. This episode was recorded live at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit.
This episode is packed with USMNT storylines, Americans abroad drama, and global soccer chaos across Serie A, La Liga, Bundesliga, Ligue 1, and the Premier League. Alexi Lalas & David Mosse lead with Weston McKennie's scorching run at Juventus, scoring in his second straight Serie A match and cementing himself as one of the league's most productive midfielders under Luciano Spalletti… where does he rank among American players right now? We break down Johnny Cardoso's injury concerns at Atlético Madrid, and mounting pressure as the US midfield picture tightens. Plus: Gio Reyna sidelined again, Tim Weah opens up about struggles at Juve and resurgence at Marseille, and strong EPL showings from Brenden Aaronson and Chris Richards. We also hit Ronaldo's strike, Messi tuning up ahead of the MLS season, #AskAlexi, and a big-picture debate: World Cup vs Olympics… has global soccer officially passed the Games? Intro (0:00)U.S. Abroad: McKennie scores, Johnny & Banks hurt (:)Liverpool vs City: Match of the Weekend (:)Messi and Ronaldo are back (:)#AskAlexi: McKennie > Pulisic? (:)One For The Road: World Cup vs Olympics (:) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Top-ranked Arizona didn't face the potential top player in the NBA Draft when it visited Kansas on Monday Night, but it did take on a motivated KU team in a raucous environment. The Jayhawks prevailed 82-78, even without Darryn Peterson, in dramatic fashion.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, KU beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha break down the action at Allen Fieldhouse: how the Jayhawks rallied from an 11-point second-half deficit and why Bill Self was emotional about this victory.After a break, KCUR interim news director Madeline Fox discusses where Kansas City stands with FIFA World Cup base camps. National teams are beginning to identify where they want to train and lodge during their stay in North America this summer, and Kansas City finds itself in an advantageous position.Rundown (timestamps are approximate)0:51 - Beat Writers break down the electric KU game vs Arizona7:37 - KU's To be or not be with Darryn Peterson 11:40 - What did KU prove?15:22 - What we know about World Cup Base Camps in KC20:19 - Is KC ready for the World Cup?25:53 - What's on Blair's RadarSportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It's produced by Randy Mason, Monty Davis, Irvin Zhang, Alison Booth, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.
In this episode, Adam is joined by Nick Shekeryk and Richard Porter from Discover Snohomish County. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming, Snohomish County is in a unique position. Located directly between host cities Seattle and Vancouver, they've developed a "secondary destination" strategy to capture the overflow of international fans. Nick and Richard also share their playbook for maximizing a global event without being the primary host. Subscribe to our newsletter! The Destination Marketing Podcast is a part of the Destination Marketing Podcast Network. It is hosted by Adam Stoker and produced by Brand Revolt. If you are interested in any of Brand Revolt's services, please email adam@thebrandrevolt.com or visit www.thebrandrevolt.com. To learn more about the Destination Marketing Podcast network and to listen to our other shows, please visit www.thedmpn.com. If you are interested in joining the network, please email adam@thebrandrevolt.com.
This week on Wrist Enthusiast Radio, Craig, Ben, and Derek sit down with John, the founder of Axia Time, one of the most unconventional watch brands in the industry. Instead of building a traditional microbrand, John has grown Axia through high-end custom projects and major partnerships, including becoming the official watch of the College Football Playoff and working with the Heisman. Then John drops a huge announcement on the podcast: Axia Time has officially signed a licensing deal to create watches for the FIFA World Cup 2026. We also dive into his work with government agencies including the Secret Service, the NRO, and even the CIA, plus what it really takes to build a watch brand through trust, relationships, and execution. Learn more about Axia Time: https://axiatime.com/ Make sure to check out the sponsor of our podcast, Delugs! Delugs is a great place to get all your watch straps and accessories. Definitely check them out! Delugs website: https://delugs.com/ Follow us on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wristenthusiast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wristenthusiastradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wristenthusiast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wristenthusiast Follow Craig: https://www.instagram.com/craig_karger/ Follow Ben: https://www.instagram.com/benswatches/ Follow Derek: https://www.instagram.com/theminutemon/
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest tournament ever—and one of the most expensive for fans.With ticket prices in the thousands and resale listings reaching six figures, many supporters are questioning whether the sport's biggest event is still accessible to everyday fans. In this episode, we explore:Why ticket demand is at historic levelsHow legal resale markets impact pricingFIFA's role in the secondary ticket economyThe controversy surrounding dynamic pricingMauricio Pochettino's response to ticket concernsTim Weah's public disappointmentThe growing divide between business and tradition in soccerWhether you're planning to attend in 2026 or watching from home, this episode looks at what these rising prices mean for the future of the game.Subscribe for more in-depth conversations on sports, culture, and modern fandom.
With less than six months until the FIFA World Cup kicks off across North America, organizers at Florida Citrus Sports are gearing up for friendlies between some of the biggest names in the game. OBJ Editor-in-Chief Richard Bilbao invites Florida Cup Series CEO and former soccer star Ricardo Villar to give us a preview.
Segment one is pure MLS therapy. The Cooligans rank and debate the worst Designated Player signings of all time, asking how so many big names with even bigger expectations fell flat. From Rafa Márquez's infamous tenure to the complicated legacies of Giroud, Shaqiri, and Insigne, the guys break down why hype doesn't always translate on the field — and what MLS should learn from these costly misfires.In segment two, attention shifts to England as Liverpool's clash with Manchester City sparks controversy. Was the red card justified, or did it unfairly tilt the match? The boys react in real time to City's statement win and zoom out to assess what it means for the Premier League title race, with Arsenal now feeling real pressure as City creep closer.The episode wraps with a moment that raised eyebrows across the soccer world: Mauricio Pochettino telling Timothy Weah to “keep quiet” about World Cup ticket prices. The guys unpack why that comment hit a nerve, what it reveals about the relationship between players and federations, and why conversations about access and cost around the World Cup aren't going away anytime soon. Timestamps:(9:00) – Revealing the worst MLS DP flops of all-time(27:30) - Was Liverpool's red card justified?(40:30) – Premier League title race heats up as Man City inch closer(49:00) – Reacting to Pochettino telling Tim Weah to “keep quiet” about World Cup ticket prices Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:
Jacques, Biff and Joe open the show with their fondest Catherine O'Hara memories. The thrill seems to be gone for them in the lead-up to the Big Game between New England and Seattle, and they can't seem to avoid politics when discussing sporting events like the Winter Olympics and upcoming FIFA World Cup. WARNING: Jacques tells two corny jokes at the top of the show. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us: IG/YT – Carnival Personnel – FB Jacques Lambert – BlueSky – @jacquesfunny.bsky.social and TikTok – @JacquesFunny
On Monday's Good Morning Hospitality, a Skift Podcast, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, Jamie Lane, and Wil Slickers break down the latest headlines shaping short-term rentals and online travel — from new funding bets to investor jitters around AI. They start with Kindred's $125 million funding round, unpacking why investors are backing home swapping as a lower-cost, lower-friction alternative to traditional short-term rentals and hotels. The conversation then turns to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States, and how host cities are bracing for rising prices, tighter regulations, and growing scrutiny of Airbnb as mega-events collide with local housing markets. The episode also checks in on OTA stocks, where analysts say recent sell-offs in Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG) and Expedia Group reflect AI anxiety more than weakening travel demand. Both Mizuho and Baird argue fundamentals remain strong, with OTAs likely to stay powerful distribution players even as AI reshapes search. Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Vancouver is a host city for the FIFA World Cup this year, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US. There are going to be seven matches at BC Place Stadium and an official FIFA Fan Festival at the PNE Amphitheatre. Organizers say more than a million visitors are expected province-wide, including over 360,000 during the tournament itself. The question is how all those people will move around the city once they get here. We speak with Denis Agar, executive director of Movement: Metro Vancouver Transit Riders.
In this episode, Regina Foley, President of Specialty Hospitals and Clinical Services and Chief Nurse Executive at Hackensack Meridian Health, discusses stabilizing and supporting the nursing workforce, leveraging technology like virtual nursing and AI, and expanding ambulatory care. She also shares how the health system is preparing to provide care during the FIFA World Cup and other community-focused initiatives.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup descends upon North America, Marcelo Bielsa has transformed La Celeste into a high-octane tactical machine. In this episode, we break down how Uruguay's relentless pressing and quick transitions have turned them into the tournament's most dangerous dark horse. We analyze the leadership of midfield maestro Federico Valverde, the emergence of a lethal new-wave attack featuring Rodrigo Aguirre and Facundo Pellistri, and the defensive iron wall led by Ronald Araújo. Join us as we explore whether Bielsa's "sophisticated chaos" can topple the traditional giants and lead Uruguay to global glory once again. 2026 FIFA World Cup, Uruguay National Team, Marcelo Bielsa, Federico Valverde, Soccer Tactical Analysis
Rog is LIVE from San Francisco's August Hall as part of the MiB Countdown Tour...and this time he's speaking with Green Day frontman and Bay Area legend Billie Joe Armstrong about how he fell in love with Millwall and the similarities between football crowds and sold out rock concerts. Plus, Rog is joined by former NFL quarterback and current General Manager of the Stanford Cardinal football team Andrew Luck to discuss his USMNT superfandom and his experience travelling to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Rog also speaks to NFL analyst Mina Kimes to breakdown her mother's Son Heung-Min obsession, and President of 49ers Enterprises Paraag Marathe to explain how and why the 49ers ownership group invested in Leeds United. Presented by Bank of America, the Official Bank of U.S. Soccer and the FIFA World Cup 2026.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Is James Rodríguez really headed to Minnesota United? In one of the strangest transfer rumors we've ever seen, the Cooligans unpack how a global superstar could end up in MLS, what it would mean for Minnesota, and whether James still has enough left to move the needle in the league — or if this is destined to be pure chaos.Next, we revisit the USMNT hype machine and ask some uncomfortable questions. Gio Reyna, Yunus Musah, Gianluca Busio, Jordan Morris — all players who once felt like sure things. So what happened? We break down why their trajectories have stalled, what went wrong at club level, and whether there's still time for a second act.Finally, we react to the wildest stories from around world soccer. From Vinícius Jr.'s girlfriend revealing uncomfortable details involving Real Madrid, to Gabriel Barbosa's tense encounter with fans, to Cristiano Ronaldo's “missing” posters popping up in Saudi Arabia — it's another reminder that no sport delivers chaos quite like football. Timestamps:(6:30) – James Rodriguez's shock transfer to Minnesota United(21:30) - USMNT rising stars that have now faded(49:30) – Vini Jr's girlfriend's weird ointment story(53:30) – Reacting to other news around the soccer world Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Immigration Nerds explores the hidden immigration stories behind Team USA's more than 230 athletes heading to Italy. Immigration researcher Marissa Kiss from George Mason University reveals that nearly 17% of Team USA has direct immigrant ties—including foreign-born athletes from five countries and second-generation immigrants whose parents came from around the world. The conversation between host Lauren Clarke and Mariss covers athletes competing despite citizenship delays, the "reverse flow" of US-born athletes representing other countries, and how immigration policy has become a competitive tool in international sports. Plus, the latest news, including updates on FIFA World Cup visa processing, Texas's H-1B hiring pause for state agencies, and the latest on immigrant visa suspensions.Resource Links: George Mason University Institute for Immigration ResearchHOST: Lauren ClarkeGUEST: Marissa Kiss, Assistant Director, Immigration, Race, and Sports, George Mason University's Institute for Immigration ResearchNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam Belmar
What if the secret to national success lies not in political rhetoric, but in a simple, unifying concept? Dr. Nik Eberl, founder of The Future Leadership Forum and architect of the powerful 2010 FIFA World Cup rebranding campaign for South Africa, shares his incredible journey—from his beginnings as a historian in Berlin to becoming a leading voice on brand and conscious leadership from his adopted home in South Africa. In this deep-dive interview, Dr. Eberl unpacks the 'Mandela Factor' that transforms performance, the motivational intelligence behind turning a nation's brand image around, and the "third mind" concept needed to tackle global challenges today. Discover the timeless lessons on connection, contribution, and purpose that bold future leaders must embrace to rebuild, rebrand, and turnaround not just businesses, but entire nations.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://anne-pratt.com
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off across North America, all eyes are on Sebastián Beccacece's Ecuador. Known for a suffocating defense led by Piero Hincapié and the midfield engine of Moisés Caicedo, La Tri has become the team no powerhouse wants to face. But can veteran Enner Valencia and rising star Kendry Páez find the goals needed to turn defensive grit into a deep knockout run? We break down Ecuador's pragmatic tactics, their "dark horse" potential, and whether their lack of scoring depth will be their downfall on the global stage. Ecuador World Cup 2026, Moises Caicedo, Enner Valencia, FIFA World Cup Predictions, Goalya, Soccer Tactical Analysis
Santa Clara has the unique honor of hosting both the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup matches in the same year. As we ramp up to Super Bowl 60, we speak with Discover Santa Clara CEO Christine Lawson on how her organization has prepared for this weekend's turn on the global stage, how it informs this summer's FIFA events and how they plan to use the visibility to gain global recognition that they are a destination for the world. Join us.
Ep 402: Once again it's time to take a look at which England players moved in January, I give my take on all this World Cup boycott talk and I preview the Nations League draw. Running time 35:00 Join the debate in our Facebook group at http://bit.ly/2hnHBzi http://www.threelionspodcast.com http://www.Twitter.com/3LionsPodcast http://www.Twitter.com/Russell_Osborne
In this episode, Regina Foley, President of Specialty Hospitals and Clinical Services and Chief Nurse Executive at Hackensack Meridian Health, discusses stabilizing and supporting the nursing workforce, leveraging technology like virtual nursing and AI, and expanding ambulatory care. She also shares how the health system is preparing to provide care during the FIFA World Cup and other community-focused initiatives.
In this episode, Regina Foley, President of Specialty Hospitals and Clinical Services and Chief Nurse Executive at Hackensack Meridian Health, discusses stabilizing and supporting the nursing workforce, leveraging technology like virtual nursing and AI, and expanding ambulatory care. She also shares how the health system is preparing to provide care during the FIFA World Cup and other community-focused initiatives.
The 2026 World Cup is finally here, and Colombia arrives on North American soil as the ultimate dark horse. In this episode, we break down Néstor Lorenzo's tactical evolution and how he's transformed Los Cafeteros into a high-pressing, clinical machine. We explore the "Last Dance" vision of captain James Rodríguez, the explosive wing play of Luis Díaz, and the predatory instincts of Luis Suárez. From their defensive dominance in the qualifiers to their creative midfield fluidity, we analyze whether this blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy has what it takes to go all the way. Colombia World Cup 2026, James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz, Nestor Lorenzo tactics, FIFA World Cup contenders
Google's latest AI search updates are pushing the experience closer to a personalized travel concierge, blending answers, follow-up questions, and private context into a single planning flow. As more inspiration and decision-making happens inside Google's interface, travel brands face a tougher challenge staying visible — and differentiated — before a traveler ever clicks through. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is also reshaping expectations for corporate travel, with companies treating the tournament as a multi-city business platform rather than a single-event trip. From executive hosting to incentive travel, the opportunity is big — but so are the logistical risks tied to visas, borders, and timing across three countries. And at Kayak, a leadership change signals how much travel search itself is in flux. As longtime CEO Steve Hafner shifts focus toward AI innovation and a new chief takes the helm, the move underscores a broader transition in how travelers compare options and move from question to decision. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down what these stories say about personalization, event-driven travel, and the future of search in the travel industry. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG Google's Latest AI Search Features Look Like a Personalized Travel Concierge Kayak CEO Steve Hafner Exits Post After 22 Years For Corporate Travel, the 2026 World Cup Is Becoming a Multi-City Business Platform Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
From deploying anti-missile frigates on the Thames, to sending ICE agents to Milan, hosting the Olympics is a high-stakes security operation. Former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove and Kate McCann break down the 2026 Winter Olympics and FIFA World Cup controversies on this week's episode of One Decision: In Brief. Sir Richard explains the security precautions that countries undertake as both hosts and participants in Olympic games, citing past examples from the games in London, Russia and Germany. Kate addresses the controversies that have already cropped up around the US hosting this year's FIFA World Cup, from spectator screenings to the potential for overstayed visas. They also discuss whether President Trump has overplayed his hand with ICE as an enforcement agency, and if the United States can handle the international scrutiny with regards to policing and violence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can Carlo Ancelotti do for the Seleção what he's done for European royalty? We dive deep into Brazil's tactical revolution ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. From Casemiro's defensive masterclass to the explosive partnership of Vinícius Júnior and the wonderkid Endrick, find out why Brazil is the team to beat in North America. We break down the Ancelotti effect, the projected attacking output of the Raphinha-Vinícius-Endrick trio, and whether this "Formidable Force" can finally secure a record-breaking sixth title on American soil. 2026 World Cup, Brazil National Team, Carlo Ancelotti, Vinícius Júnior, Endrick
The FIFA World Cup really is bigger this year, taking place in Summer across 39 days, taking place in 16 cities across the US, Mexico and Canada. While all the on-pitch fun is happening across the Atlantic, how can brands across the pond engage UK audiences effectively and authentically?In this episode of The Campaign Podcast, Campaign welcomes guest Lizi Hamer, the global executive creative director at Octagon to discuss some of the biggest mistakes brands make when creating brand experiences around the World Cup, and why advertisers should be thinking community first, not country first.Tech and multimedia editor Lucy Shelley hosts the episode with Campaign's deputy editor Gemma Charles and creativity and culture editor Charlotte Rawlings.Further reading:Beyond borders: why countries don't define modern fandomFifa 2026's longer tournament window presents a golden opportunity for fan activationsIdentity launches global sports propositionThe Year Ahead 2026: Cultural trendsThe Year Ahead 2026: ExperiencesCampaign calendar:Audio Advertising Awards: final entry deadline on 12th February, with multi-entry discounts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Democrats cheered Sunday after flipping a North Texas state Senate seat long seen as safely Republican, while GOP leaders scrambled to brush off the upset. Taylor Rehmet's victory Saturday shocked expectations, as the 33-year-old Air Force veteran and union leader pulled off a double-digit victory in a district that favored President Donald Trump by 17 percentage points in 2024. In other news, with four months left before the FIFA World Cup arrives in North Texas, Dallas officials say transportation coordination, community engagement and Fair Park activations are moving into high gear; and It has been one year since the infamous, stunning trade that sent Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Can Lionel Messi lead Argentina to a historic back-to-back World Cup title in 2026? In this episode, we break down Lionel Scaloni's tactical evolution and how he has integrated rising stars like Claudio Echeverri and Franco Mastantuono alongside seasoned champions like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández. We analyze Messi's record-breaking 2025 MLS MVP season with Inter Miami, his "free-roaming" role in the national squad, and whether the Albiceleste's tactical flexibility can overcome giants like France and Brazil on the world stage.Argentina World Cup 2026, Lionel Messi stats 2025, Lionel Scaloni tactics, FIFA World Cup favorites, Inter Miami Messi goals.
Simon's live update on events in the United States for South Africa's "Newzroom Afrika" Channel 405, with Xoli Mngambi anchoring.Today, a South African is detained by ICE, pressure mounts on President Trump from his fellow Republicans over the killing of two U.S. citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis, and questions abound over the future of the FIFA World Cup.#Trump #Pretti #Minneapolis #ICE #BorderPatrol #news #simonmarks #NewzroomAfrika #FIFA2026 #WorldCup #WorldCup2026 #SouthAfrica
The NFL postseason is in full chaos mode, and this week Blake and Caroline are breaking down the Chicago Bears game that put fans through an emotional roller coaster. From pivotal play calls to high-pressure moments, they dig into what went wrong, what worked, and what Caleb Williams' performance reveals about the road ahead. Plus, Caroline is making sure we all know who to root for in the NFL playoffs based on the characters in “Heated Rivalry.” In this episode of “Well Played”, we also cover: -Why the Beckham beef is back in the spotlight -Which WNBA star is joining “Hunting Wives” -Why Chloe Kim is spending so much time in the pedicure chair -The reason Fernando Mendoza's story has us in our feels -What it was like for former Laker's owner Jeannie Buss as a woman in a male-domited industry (hint: not easy) Plus Caroline and Blake conduct a sniff test with Literie's new 2026 FIFA World Cup collection candles. Use code SKIMM10 for 10% off your order at https://literiecandle.com. Editor's note: In this episode Blake and Caroline discuss a NHL hockey team selling jerseys to support Pride. The correct team was the Ottawa Senators. Jeanie Buss on IG: @jeaniebuss Blake on IG: @blaaakkkke Caroline on IG: @cghendy theSkimm on IG: @theskimm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices