Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies at 38 amid legal controversy
Rob Dieperink, a 38‑year‑old Dutch referee, passed away shortly after being removed from the World Cup VAR list amid allegations that were later dismissed by police.
Jul 28, 2026
Brand
The Athletic
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning The Athletic across Football, Soccer, Hockey.
Mauricio Pochettino Secures Long‑Term Deal with US Soccer Ahead of 2030 World Cup Cycle
US Soccer has offered Mauricio Pochettino a contract through the 2030 World Cup cycle, aiming to cement his tactical vision and player‑development focus while navigating interest from European clubs.
Jul 28, 2026
UNC Football GM Michael Lombardi Placed on Leave Amid CSC Probe
The University of North Carolina has put general manager Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave following a human‑resources complaint, while the College Sports Commission examines possible violations of name, image and likeness rules.
Jul 28, 2026
Fickell’s Make-or-Break Season at Wisconsin
Luke Fickell enters a critical 2026 campaign with a 17‑21 record, a long‑term contract, and a looming financial decision.
Jul 28, 2026
Flyers’ Offseason Moves and Rumors: What’s Next?
With contract negotiations for key youngsters, a fresh face in Noel Acciari, and trade chatter around Elias Pettersson, the Philadelphia Flyers are navigating a pivotal offseason.
Jul 28, 2026
Will Ferrell’s Misstep at the MLB Home Run Derby Sparks Criticism
A much‑anticipated Netflix‑hosted Home Run Derby quickly turned into a public relations headache after Will Ferrell's cameo and Elle Duncan's performance drew widespread fan backlash.
Jul 28, 2026
The Most Hated Figures in NHL History: Inside The Athletic’s Villain Rankings
The Athletic’s recent feature dissects the most notorious villains across the league, spotlighting figures like Patrick Roy, Darren McCarty and Todd Bertuzzi, and exploring how their actions shaped team dynamics and fan perceptions.
Jul 28, 2026
Charlie Stramel Eyes NHL Breakthrough After Strong College Season
A 2023 first‑round pick, Charlie Stramel ranks No. 94 in Scott Wheeler’s top‑100 NHL draft prospects and is preparing for his professional debut after a standout senior year at Michigan State University.
Jul 27, 2026
Arsenal’s pursuit of Vinícius Júnior highlights Madrid’s resolve
Arsenal are exploring a move for Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior, but the Spanish giants are determined to keep the Brazilian star, even as they scout alternatives like Yan Diomande.
Jul 27, 2026
Fox Sports reshuffles its college football broadcast team ahead of new season
A recent personnel shift at Fox Sports sees Connor Onion ascend to the network’s second‑tier college football play‑by‑play seat, teaming with former NFL quarterback turned analyst Robert Griffin III. Meanwhile, veteran announcer Jason Benetti departs for NBC, where he will lead the network’s MLB coverage. The moves come as Fox Sports maintains its top‑tier duo of Gus Johnson and Joel Klatt, and as Griffin reflects on the mentorship he received from Benetti.
Jul 27, 2026
Leeds United edge closer to £40m capture of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford
Leeds United are finalising a £40 million transfer for Manchester City's James Trafford, a move that follows the exits of Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier and aims to shore up the club's goalkeeping department.
Jul 27, 2026
Chelsea Eye Veteran Midfielder Jordan Henderson in Strategic Recruitment Shift
Chelsea are poised to bring Jordan Henderson to Stamford Bridge, a move that reflects a broader tactical pivot toward seasoned leadership within the squad.
Jul 27, 2026
UNC Places Lombardi on Administrative Leave Amid Ongoing Program Struggles
The University of North Carolina announced the immediate administrative leave of general manager Michael Lombardi, a longtime confidant of head coach Bill Belichick, without disclosing a reason, sparking speculation as the program prepares for training camp.
Jul 27, 2026
Ivorian Teen Yan Diomande Set for Record‑Breaking Move to Real Madrid
Real Madrid is reportedly preparing a $153.8 million offer for teenage Ivorian winger Yan Diomande, a move that would underscore the club’s aggressive recruitment strategy following a second‑place La Liga finish and a World Cup‑winning Spanish side.
Jul 27, 2026
Chelsea Eye Veteran Forward Danny Welbeck in Transfer Push
Chelsea are exploring a move for Danny Welbeck, a seasoned Premier League attacker whose recent performances have sparked admiration from manager Xabi Alonso and the club's recruitment team.
Jul 27, 2026
Michael McDowell Navigates the Pressures of Modern NASCAR
Spire Motorsports’ Michael McDowell reflects on his early‑bird habits, the frustrations of race‑caution politics, and the personal strategies that keep him competitive while juggling five children.
Jul 27, 2026
Islanders’ Prospect Cole Eiserman Eyes 30-Goal Breakout
A second‑round pick’s combination of skill and work ethic could reshape his role on the power play, but refinement is required.
Jul 27, 2026
Aston Villa’s Calculated Rise: Selling Stars to Stay Ahead in Europe
Aston Villa have turned player sales into a financial engine, using academy graduates and strategic transfers to stay competitive in the Premier League and Europe, all while adhering to strict UEFA financial rules.
Jul 27, 2026
Flyers Open Season at Home, Back‑to‑Back Schedule Looms as Front Office Pursues Free Agents
The Flyers will start the 2024‑25 NHL season with a home matchup against the Penguins, followed by a back‑to‑back stretch, while goalie prospects rise and the front office eyes free‑agent signings. Across the league, Detroit parts ways with Steve Yzerman.
Jul 26, 2026
Real Madrid edges closer to securing Yan Diomande
Real Madrid is nearing a deal for Yan Diomande after PSG withdrew, with Leipzig holding out for a fee near €130 million and the player expressing a clear preference for the Spanish capital.
Jul 26, 2026
Mid‑Week Dynasty Baseball Pickups: Pitching Breakouts and Prospect Spotlight
A look at recent performances that have pushed César Perdomo, Jace Beck and Wilberson De Pena into the spotlight, plus a deep dive on prospect Yoel Tejeda Jr. and his rising fantasy value.
Jul 26, 2026
Top NHL Goalie Prospects Set to Anchor Michigan State’s Season
Scott Wheeler’s latest prospect rankings place Joshua Ravensbergen at No. 2 and Trey Augustine at No. 3 among NHL goalie prospects, highlighting their imminent impact for Michigan State.
Jul 26, 2026
Infantino poised for unchallenged 2027 FIFA term
With unanimous support from Africa, Asia and South America, Gianni Infantino faces little resistance as he eyes a third mandate, while the USMNT’s Folarin Balogun episode recedes.
Jul 26, 2026
Astros Trade McCullers, Gordon to Brewers for Prospect Fielder
The Houston Astros sent Lance McCullers Jr. and Colton Gordon to the Milwaukee Brewers for Jadyn Fielder, son of Prince Fielder, in a move that clears payroll and adds a high‑upside prospect.
Jul 26, 2026