Aug 1, 2026, 10:00 AM UTC

Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic has commented on Lionel Messi's conduct during a match between Argentina and Spain, speaking in an interview with British outlet Metro.

During the fixture, Messi drew criticism for attempting to persuade match officials to penalize Spanish defender Marc Cucurella. The incident arose after Cucurella briefly covered his mouth during an argument on the field. Under recently introduced football regulations, players face potential red cards for covering their mouths during arguments to prevent unsporting verbal exchanges. Messi immediately complained to the officiating team regarding Cucurella's action.

Sources: Morgunblaðið.

Fifa has abandoned controversial plans to sell commercial stakes in the Men's World Cup following widespread opposition within international football. The world governing body confirmed overnight that it would scrap the proposed investor model, which had aimed to bring external private equity into its flagship tournament operations.

The retreat comes amid sharp criticism directed at Fifa President Gianni Infantino over governance and financial strategy. Football commentators and journalists expressed strong disapproval of the initiative, with critics arguing the proposal compromised the sport's integrity. While Fifa has not detailed its next steps, the decision marks a significant reversal for the organisation's commercial expansion strategy ahead of future tournaments.

Sources: Aftenposten.

Claudio Lotito, a senator for Forza Italia and president of the Lazio football club, has dismissed concerns that fan protests against his leadership could negatively affect his party's performance in upcoming elections.

The debate followed comments from Lazio Regional Governor Francesco Rocca, who acknowledged internal worries that dissatisfied Lazio supporters might turn away from Forza Italia at the ballot box. Addressing the political risk, Rocca noted that the issue indeed exists.

Lotito rejected the assertions, stating that "the facts prove the opposite" despite ongoing friction with supporters over his management of the Serie A club. The friction has prompted discussions within political circles regarding potential electoral fallout in the capital region.

Sources: Corriere della Sera