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Leland Stein and David Malan continue Regent Theatre’s legacy of entertainment
Over the past century, the Regent Theatre has hosted thousands of movies, music, comedy, and vaudeville acts. For the past 25 years, Leland Stein, the Regent’s director of programming and community relations, has been the man responsible for choosing what Arlington audiences enjoy. Stein has booked popular movie singalongs (including “The Sound of Music”); renowned musicians, ranging from Yo-Yo Ma to Johnny Winter, as well as beloved cover bands, including The Ultrasonic Rock Orchestra (Sept. 26), the Regent’s unofficial “house band” and an annual Tom Petty night (Oct. 24); comedians including Paula Poundstone, Margaret Cho, and Bengali comedian Anirban Dasgupta
Cleveland WNBA Names Cleveland Clinic as Third Founding Partner and Official Hospital and Sports Medicine Provider
World-renowned hospital system to focus on holistic player care, advancing youth development, health education and community engagement.
Baker Mayfield Floated as Browns QB Solution Amid Contract Dispute
Baker Mayfield is in the midst of a contract dispute with the Tampa Buccaneers, which could open the door for a reunion with the Cleveland Browns. The post Baker Mayfield Floated as Browns QB Solution Amid Contract Dispute appeared first on HEAVY.
What Health Informatics Means in Physical Therapy
Physical therapists are well positioned to use informatics to improve education, communication and patient-centered care.
Former Ohio State defensive back signs massive extension with Browns
Former Ohio State and current Cleveland Browns defensive back Denzel Ward signed a massive contract extension with the Browns.
Browns WR Jerry Jeudy Hit With Harsh Reality After Controversy
Cleveland Browns receiver Jerry Jeudy was hit with a harsh reality after finding himself embroiled in the team's QB controversy. The post Browns WR Jerry Jeudy Hit With Harsh Reality After Controversy appeared first on HEAVY.
Beachwood business owner caught with 35 pounds of cocaine in downtown Cleveland, feds say
Beachwood business owner Robert Mitchell was arrested in Cleveland with 35 pounds of cocaine, court records say.
Isabella Bellezza Receives the 2026 Merze Tate Award for “Exporting Homeland Security: Network Politics and the Globalization of Border Control” -
The Merze Tate Award is presented annually by the American Political Science Association (APSA) to honor the best doctoral dissertation in the field of international relations, law, and politics. Citation from the Award Committee: Isabella Bellezza’s dissertation, [...]
Bridging Art and Science: How Philanthropy and Passion Built UC
UC Berkeley lecturer Melanie Acosta remembers when everything changed for her. She was working as a professional singer in New York City at the time of the September 11, 2001, attacks. At the time,
A Traveler Paid $7,000 for a Business-class Seat—Then Another Passenger Asked Her to Move to Economy
Influencer Ishika Yadavalli paid $7,000 for a business-class flight on Qatar Airways, and went viral when a mom asked her to switch with her daughter in economy.
🇮🇪 Y! Sports AM: 75-year wait
Mayo finally won the All-Ireland title on Sunday, breaking one of the longest curses in all of sports.
Bill Brophy was born into baseball. He's still in the game.
The former Wisconsin State Journal sports editor is enjoying his gig as a freelancer for Waunakee-based Rush Media.
Health experts share tips to help Kern County students start the school year healthy
KBAK CBS 29 and KBFX Fox58 are the news leaders for Bakersfield, California and serves surrounding communities including Oildale, Lamont, Shafter, Wasco, Buttonwillow, Maricopa, Tehachapi, Arvin, California City, Delano, McFarland, Ridgecrest and Taft.
Chargers cut ties with veteran offensive lineman
The Los Angeles Chargers part ways with veteran offensive lineman Ben Cleveland.
Browns QB Trade Imminent as Training Camp Kicks Off: Report
The Cleveland Browns are highly likely to trade a QB this summer. The post Browns QB Trade Imminent as Training Camp Kicks Off: Report appeared first on HEAVY.
Mercy Health expands maternity care by connecting patients with midwives
Local 12 WKRC-TV is the local station for breaking news, weather forecasts, traffic alerts, community news, Cincinnati Bengals, Reds and FC Cincinnati sports updates, and CBS programming for the Cincinnati , Ohio area, including Avondale, Blue Ash, Bond Hill, Camp Washington, Cheviot, Cleves, Colerain Township, Columbia-Tusculum, Corryville, Norwood, Delhi, East Price Hill, Golf Manor, Hyde Park, Lebanon, Loveland, Lower Price Hill, Madeira, Mariemont, Mount Adams, Mount Airy, Mount Healthy, Mount Lookout, Mount Washington, Oakley, Over-The-Rhine, Reading, Sedamsville, Sharonville, Springdale, St. Bernard, South Cumminsville, Symmes Township, Mason, Hamilton, Union Township, Walnut Hills, West Chester, Wyoming, West Price Hill, Westwood, Winton Hills, Alexandria, Bellevue, Covington, Crescent Springs, Erlanger, Fort Mitchell, Fort Thomas, Fort Wright, Florence, Hebron, Highland Heights, Newport, Southgate, Villa Hills, Walton, Aurora, Greendale, and Lawrenceburg.
Scientists Discover The Fourth Transmissible Cancer Known To Science
Scientists found the fourth type of transmissible cancer, and the first in a fish: a melanoma whose tumor cells spread between catfish in a Vermont lake.
New Venezuelan Oil Regulations Offer Promise, But Politics and Quake Recovery Threaten Investment - Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University SIPA
Get the latest as our experts share their insights on global energy policy.
Yankees Rivalry Roundup: Rasmussen stars as the Rays blank Cleveland
Drew Rasmussen, Munetaka Murakami, and Dominic Canzone all starred for their teams Sunday
Gathering Together Farm seeks new owners to nurture community, sustain business
Nearly four decades after they started Gathering Together Farm, owners John Eveland and Sally Brewer are looking for a buyer.
Opinion: Programs to help ease caregivers’ burden can be a lifeline
The success of programs like Kinship Support isn’t measured only by the number of families served; it’s measured by children who remain connected to the people who love them most.
One Browns WR tabbed as clear training camp trade candidate
Does Cedric Tillman need a trade from the Browns? Bleacher Report sure thinks so.
ESPN's Pat McAfee wants to see the Browns win
The ESPN host is a fan of the young talent in Cleveland.
REPORT: Browns Exploring Edge Rusher Additions Ahead of Camp
After the blockbuster trade of Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns GM Andrew Berry is hunting for a veteran defensive end to solidify a new-look front before training camp commences.
Rookie DBs are working together closely at Chiefs training camp
During comments to the media at Chiefs training camp, rookie DB Jadon Canady spoke about the bond he is building with first-round pick Mansoor Delane.
What does it mean to end 75 years of heartbreak?
After Mayo ended their 75-year wait to win the All-Ireland, what does it mean to finally end the 'Mayo curse'?.
Hands on science lessons for Independence students
INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Youngsters in Independence schools have enjoyed a whole new approach to learning science over the past year.
Cleveland Browns still looking for help at defensive end
Cleveland is reportedly still in the market for another DE. But with the options dwindling, what is the right play?
Clyde beats Bamfo to move through to quarter-finals
Team Northern Ireland's Nicole Clyde books her place in the women's bantamweight 54kg quarter-finals with a unanimous decision victory over Ghana's Nancy Bamfo at the SEC Centre.
Charlton sign Republic of Ireland winger Alli
Charlton Athletic sign winger Millenic Alli from Luton Town for an undisclosed fee.
U.Va. Health becomes first health system in Virginia to offer new melanoma treatment
U.Va. Health interventional radiologist Dr. Daniel Sheeran and U.Va. Health Cardiac Anesthesiologist Dr. Paul Gallo helped bring the treatment to U.Va. Health.
Are redheads going extinct?
Redheads are rare and the trait carries an increased risk of melanoma. Does that mean ginger locks might one day go extinct?
Chiefs’ rookie Mansoor Delane delivers health update
Delane, the 6th-overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, suffered a shoulder injury during OTAs last month.
Hugging Face CEO shares his demands of OpenAI after 'rogue' agent hack
Hugging Face CEO Clem Delangue met with OpenAI this week to discuss the "unprecedented" hack on its systems by an agent running on OpenAI models.
Top foods for better brain health
Dr. Sandra Darling, a preventive medicine specialist at Cleveland Clinic, recommends a Mediterranean diet because it emphasizes foods like berries, leafy greens, whole grains, and favors fish and p…
Kyle Gordon scores another banger.
The comedian and artist behind “Planet of the Bass” and my personal favorite, “Selekta,” has an absolutely incredible sendup parodying Paul Simon’s Graceland jaunt to Africa. Gordon is popularly compared these days to Weird Al but his ability to embed authentically in genre is even more sophisticated. He’s a shapeshifter who does real homework on his parodies. I can’t wait to see what he does next. [Media: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJBm1n8JUZ8&list=RDqJBm1n8JUZ8&start_radio=1]
Bowman 'honoured' to make return after eight-year hiatus
Goal shooter Lisa Bowman says she had "goosebumps" playing for Northern Ireland in their opening Commonwealth Games defeat against England as she made her return to the international stage after an eight-year break.
'The Entertainment Capital Of Iowa' Is A Bustling City With Shopping, A Casino, And Amusement Park Fun
Altoona, Iowa, packs in Adventureland, Prairie Meadows Casino, outlet shopping, and family attractions just minutes from Des Moines.
Colston Loveland sounds off on Ben Johnson-Caleb Williams dynamic
Bears TE Colston Loveland recently opened up about how the relationship between Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson developed last season.
Predicting the Browns 53-man roster as training camp opens
The Cleveland Browns have opened training camp, predicting their initial 53-man roster with some tough decisions
Health officials seek diners after rabid bat lands on California restaurant table
San Diego County health officials are searching for anyone who may have touched a rabid bat after it landed on a family’s table inside the Yellow Deli Restaurant in Vista, California.
Takumu Kawamura returns to Japan
Midfielder heading to homeland after two years in SalzburgTakumu Kawamura is returning to his native Japan and will once again play for first-division club Sanfrecce Hiroshima.The 26-year-old Japanese...
Why two Cleveland-area businesses are betting on racing simulators
Speed Trap Racing and Lorain KartPlex are betting that high-end racing simulators can become motorsports' version of golf simulators.
Browns QB Shedeur Sanders talks lifestyle changes entering year two
Set for a battle for the starting QB job, Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders discusses the work he put in this offseason
Sports media reacts to LeBron James signing with Philadelphia 76ers
LeBron James finally made his free agency decision on Friday, and it was not what anyone expected. The NBA’s top newsbreaker, ESPN’s Shams Charania, shared the news with the world after being told directly by agent Rich Paul. James is not reuniting with one of his former teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers, nor is he joining…
The Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health
Exercise is just as good for your brain as it is for your body. A psychiatrist explains how getting physical can boost your mental health.
Charli XCX moves beyond ‘Brat’ and nine more things you must hear this week
Britain's Charli XCX starts a new sonic era with "Music, Fashion, Film," leading a new releases week that includes titles from Shania Twain, O.A.R. the Strokes, Cypress Hill, Brantley Gilbert and more, a posthumous set from the Mavericks' Raul Malo and a Tony Award-winning musical's cast album.
Tension between Mullin and White House appears to be growing, sources say
President Donald Trump brought in Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to lead a department at the forefront of his signature domestic policy.
Vermont political candidates are flouting campaign finance laws, report finds
Vermont law requires candidates for state, county and municipal offices to disclose the sources of their campaign contributions, but a new report finds that 20% of candidates running this year haven't filed reports.
Bakersfield police, business owners discuss impact of vandalism on local businesses
KBAK CBS 29 and KBFX Fox58 are the news leaders for Bakersfield, California and serves surrounding communities including Oildale, Lamont, Shafter, Wasco, Buttonwillow, Maricopa, Tehachapi, Arvin, California City, Delano, McFarland, Ridgecrest and Taft.
Jose Ramirez Makes Immediate Impact in Return, Despite Guardians' Loss
The Cleveland Guardians may have lost to the Minnesota Twins, but it was a win to see Jose Ramirez back on the field.
Bears’ Loveland Lands on NFLPA’s “Rising Stars List”
Bears TE Colston Loveland named to NFLPA’s “Rising Stars List” @tjstarman has more here.
Surgeon hails new CABG technology as a 'technical breakthrough'
The new-look ELANA device from AMT Medical could simplify CABG procedures and help improve patient access to minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques.
Cleveland Science Center marks 30 years with celebration (photos)
The Great Lakes Science Center handed out 500 cupcakes Wednesday and showcased exhibits that have made it a regional leader in hands-on science education.
WATCH LIVE: House panel examines Delaney Hall ICE detention center conditions and protests
Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s trial set to begin in June 2027
The criminal trial of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2027, a federal judge said Wednesday.
'Rare' contagious cancer found in fish from Quebec and U.S. lakes
It's rare that cancerous tumours can spread from one individual to another. But a genetic study suggests that's what's happening with melanoma skin cancer tumours among catfish in Quebec and the northeastern U.S.
Cleveland Browns news: Free agency works out. Sometimes.
The latest Cleveland Browns news and notes from around the NFL in the July 22 edition of the Daily Dawg Chow.
US to Spend $5 Billion on Health, Construction Research Powered by AI
By Courtney Rozen WASHINGTON, July 22 (Reuters) - The U.S. will spend $5 billion to tackle long-standing scientific problems across multiple fields using AI, the Trump administration said in a statement on Wednesday. The agencies will use the funding to identify the root causes of chronic ...
Public Charge Rule set to impact N.Y. green card applicants
The Trump administration’s Department of Homeland Security’s new public charge rule will take effect Sept. 18, 2026.
Browns free agent signings who overperformed expectations, last 10 years
These players delivered more than expected and became some of the Cleveland Browns' best signings of the last 10 years
Kendrick Perkins makes pitch for LeBron James to join ESPN
The Miami Heat? The Cleveland Cavaliers? The Philadelphia 76ers? The Golden State Warriors? Where will LeBron James land in NBA free agency? Kendrick Perkins has another idea altogether for the unrestricted free agent: ESPN. On Monday’s edition of NBA Today, the ESPN analyst and 2008 NBA champion made his pitch for James to join the…
Cleveland Cavaliers Get Shocking New Timeline on LeBron James Decision
Rich Paul has shut down reports that LeBron James is nearing a decision on his free agency, spelling bad news for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The post Cleveland Cavaliers Get Shocking New Timeline on LeBron James Decision appeared first on HEAVY.
Browns offseason look back: 5 decisions that concern me
From Jared Verse to Todd Monken and Jim Schwartz, a few concerning Cleveland Browns offseason decisions.
Kyle Klein Named Associate Commissioner for Sports Administration and Championships
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Mid-American Conference Commissioner Dr. Jon A. Steinbrecher has named Kyle Klein Associate Commissioner for Sports Administration and Championships, effective July 1, 2026.
Morning Digest: Lakewood businesses and residents frustrated by constant power outages
Good morning, Cleveland! Here's what you need to know about today's stories on GMC, traffic and weather.
'Kimmel' Guest Host Colman Domingo Trolls MAGA With Epic Melania Trump Reminder
The actor mocked right-wing outrage over the cast of “The Odyssey.”
The Bull Case For Accel Entertainment (ACEL) Could Change Following Guidroz’s Promotion To COO
Accel Entertainment, Inc. recently reshuffled its leadership, promoting Toucan Gaming CEO Stan Guidroz to Chief Operating Officer effective July 14, 2026, while President Mark Phelan relinquished the COO title and Chief Compliance Officer Derek Harmer prepared to transition into a compliance committee role in 2027. This move elevates an executive with deep Louisiana gaming and acquisition experience to oversee day-to-day operations across Accel’s markets, potentially influencing how the...
Celebrities from across sports, entertainment and more spotted at World Cup final
Making his first appearance at this year’s World Cup, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were joined in their suite by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and wife Diana and more.
I Tried a Sensory Float Pod to Quiet My Mind—and It Was One of the Best Things I’ve Done For Myself in Years
After a four-day solo darkness retreat helped quiet my anxiety, I began seeking other wellness practices. Here’s what I learned.
Cleveland Browns 2026 training camp position preview: Offensive line
The Browns open training camp with a completely new offensive line. Here's a look at the position group.
Daily Dawg Chow: Betting odds, free agents, and more!
The latest Cleveland Browns news and notes from around the NFL in the July 20 edition of the Daily Dawg Chow.
Cleveland Fed: Business activity up, but high fuel costs are increasing prices, hurting consumers
Cleveland Fed: Business activity is up, driven by data center construction. But high energy costs are driving prices up and consumption down.
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive Positive Update Amid LeBron James Pursuit
The Cleveland Cavaliers have received a positive update about their pursuit of LeBron James.
Truthfully The Fallout I’m Most Looking Forward To Is Fan-Made
As Xbox tries to quell critics by replaying the hits, it’s a fan-made game that has me optimistic for the wasteland
Browns rookie minicamp participant tries to earn extra CFB eligibility
Cole Hutson participated in Browns' rookie minicamp as a tryout after going undrafted, and is now trying to get an extra year at the college level
Tim Murphy, former U.S. congressman and state senator, dies at 73
Former U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy, a Republican from Upper St. Clair, died Sunday. He was 73. Murphy died at his home from an apparent heart attack, according to ColdSpark, the political consultancy that worked on Murphy’s campaigns. A native of Cleveland, Murphy earned a doctorate in psychology from the University
Ireland's World Cup play - Live Updates
Ireland is hoping the global sporting spotlight surrounding the World Cup will also shine on its growing sports technology industry.
Politics chat: How much faith can you have in the country's election systems?
President Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin make claims about the vulnerability of election systems in the U.S., but how true are those claims?
Small Business Technology News Roundup: IBM Shares Crash, ChatGPT To Replace Wall Street Analysts
IBM shares collapse, OpenAI says AI will replace workers, Upwork says AI is reshaping freelancing, Microsoft will let you pause Windows 11 updates, Expensify consolidates travel billing
For Gainesville High alum, acting in ‘Spamalot’ at Fox Theatre means a lot
Meet Delaney Benson, a Gainesville native who is returning home as a cast member of the touring company of "Spamalot," which plays at the Fox Theatre from July 21-26.
Important Takeaways From Houston’s Summer League Blowout
A sluggish start derailed Houston’s championship hopes, but Quadir Copeland’s aggressive 24-point breakout and Bruce Thornton’s versatile playmaking provided silver linings despite a frustrating night in Vegas.
Cleveland Browns news: Even QBs can use a training buddy
The latest Cleveland Browns news and notes from around the NFL in the July 18 edition of the Saturday Dawg Chow.
Longtime Browns Starter Signs With Rival Ravens: Report
A Cleveland Browns starter for the last four years just inked a contract with the Baltimore Ravens. The post Longtime Browns Starter Signs With Rival Ravens: Report appeared first on HEAVY.
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cleveland Guardians: Jared Jones vs. Gavin Williams
The Pirates are on the road looking to grab a win today.
Ohio City Inc. urges Cleveland to create a relief fund for businesses hit with 50+ hour power outage
At least 19 businesses sat in the dark over the Fourth of July weekend due to a 50+ hour long power outage, losing thousands of dollars in inventory and revenue. The costly situation now has Ohio City Inc. asking for change.
'The facts have not changed': States push back on allegations of non-citizens voting
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the agency will be going through state databases to review any cases of noncitizens voting. But states say their elections remain secure.
Fed rate-hike voices swell before July decision, rates still seen on hold
Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack on Friday added her voice to a small but growing chorus of policymakers arguing the Fed may need to raise short-term borrowing costs to deal with persistently high inflation, setting up a charged debate at the central bank's July 28-29 meeting.
Less sleep = less health; Led Zeppelin in the OR; dangers of people-pleasing; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources
Prevention interviewed Beth Malow, MD, Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics in the Vanderbilt Sleep Division, for a story about two randomized trials published in Annals of Internal Medicinethat found decreasing sleep by just 1.5 hours each night was linked with increases in body weight, waist circumference, and sedentary time in adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk. Yahoo Healthalso picked up the story. WTVF News Channel 5 reporter Nikki Hauser interviewed Ashish Shah, MD, Professor and Chair of Cardiac Surgery, for a new video podcast series called “Why Nashville” where she interviews interesting people doing interesting work about why they came to Nashville and how it is going. Among the revelations: his go-to OR music includes Led Zeppelin and AC/DC. Everyday Health interviewed Aaron Brinen, PsyD, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, for a story about the TikTok trend that encourages women to speak up about their concerns or they’ll develop an autoimmune disease. Overall, people suggest that suppressing feelings of anger, minimizing your own needs, or people-pleasing raises your risk. Telemundo Nashville broadcast a story on cyclosporiasis that quotes both William Schaffner, MD, professor of Preventive Medicine, and Juan C. Salazar, MD, MPH, chair of the Department of Pediatrics and system Pediatrician-in-Chief for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Schaffner also spoke to WKRN News 2 about measles and The Cutabout shingles and long distance running. WREG (Memphis) and others picked up the measles story as well. CNN reporter Deidre McPhillips interviewed John Trahanas, MD, Assistant Professor of Cardiac Surgery, and Director of Thoracic Aortic Surgery, for a story about aortic dissection in last week’s death of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham. The Nashville Post published a story by freelance reporter Leah Hunter on robotic surgery, including a patient story and numerous quotes from Sekhar Padmanabhan, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Division of Surgical Oncology.
Cleveland Cavaliers, Black CoLabs, NAACP Cleveland and Aramark Sports + Entertainment Crown Six Black Owned Businesses Winners at A Taste of Black Cleveland 8.0
Cleveland Cavaliers, Black CoLabs, NAACP Cleveland and Aramark Sports + Entertainment named Freshlyfe, House of Creole, Kake Kutters, Mama Joyce’s Soul Food,...
Daily Dawg Chow: Speculating on possible trade values
The latest Cleveland Browns news and notes from around the NFL in the July 17 edition of the Daily Dawg Chow.
China warns of reciprocal countermeasures after US shortens foreign journalist visas
The Trump administration is drastically shortening visas for foreign journalists in the U.S. The new rule announced by the Department of Homeland Security limits visas to 240 days, down from
Opinion: Burke’s second act should benefit all of Cleveland
Creating a human-scale resident neighborhood at the Burke Lakefront Airport site would provide direct and wide-ranging benefits for Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, writes economist James Trutko.
Donovan Mitchell recruits LeBron James to Cleveland Cavaliers
James is still deciding where he plans to continue his career.
Sports without politics is a fantasy and the World Cup proves it
From ancient Greece to Nazi Germany, sport and politics have long been intertwined. Nevertheless, we still imagine that international sport can be kept above the fray and serve as a neutral arena where nations compete on merit alone. In this article, diplomacy scholar Geoffrey Allen Pigman argues the 2026 FIFA World Cup shows this is a dangerous illusion. When international sport is left entirely to revenue-maximizing private bodies like FIFA, it doesn't escape politics, but rather surrenders to its worst expressions. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics fast approaching, the IOC must decide whether to learn that lesson or repeat the same mistakes. The largest and most lucrative FIFA World Cup ever draws toward its climactic conclusion amidst a swirl of controversy. Team members, staff, fans, and spectators have been denied their right to enter the United States to participate, and US President Donald Trump intervened with FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to overturn a referee’s call that Trump believed disadvantaged the US national team. It is a moment to step back and reflect on what the purposes of international sport mega-events like the World Cup, and international sport more broadly, are, and what they should be. Does international sport serve public purposes? Is there a public interest? Or is it primarily a private endeavor organized by commercial enterprises to entertain the global public (and generate profit in the process), which is occasionally used by governments and leaders for raisons d’etat? Central to the idea of sport is the principle of fair play, which in the international context demands that games be free from political interference. However, it is impossible to separate sport from politics, all claims to the contrary notwithstanding. The most positive political use of international sport through the millennia has been to facilitate diplomacy. The use of international sport for diplomatic objectives has existed since at least the time of the ancient Olympic Games, around which was instituted the custom of the Ekecheiria, or Olympic Truce, between participating states to facilitate fair competition and diplomatic achievements by ensuring that participants could travel safely to the Olympiad. In his seminal work On Diplomacy (1987), diplomacy scholar James Der Derian characterized the objectives of diplomacy as overcoming alienation and mediating estrangement between governments and between peoples. One increasingly important diplomatic tool in the technology-infused media environment over the past century has been public diplomacy, under which governments and non-state diplomatic actors (e.g. transnational corporations) communicate to global publics about their international policy objectives and to shape their global brand image. Political scientist Michał Kobierecki, in his important book Sports Diplomacy (2020), views sports diplomacy as falling broadly within the ambit of public diplomacy, as international sport intimately involves the participation of global publics as spectators and consumers of global media. Diplomacy scholar Stuart Murray and this author, in a 2013 article, distinguish between international sport used for diplomatic purposes and international sport-as-diplomacy, which encompasses the range of diplomacy that occurs as teams and competitors, spectators and fans, and government officials all converge for international sporting events like the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup. Diplomacy scholar H.E. Chehabi, in a 2001 article on US-Iran sports diplomacy, describes the interaction between spectators and fans at international sporting events as “people-to-people diplomacy,” in which relationships develop independently of governments and their objectives. Diplomacy by the aforementioned definitions is often unsuccessful. Moreover, all too often the tools of diplomacy may be employed by governments and other actors to thwart or oppose the objectives of diplomacy as characterized by Der Derian. Governments routinely use the tools of public diplomacy to disseminate propaganda, spreading misinformation in the attempt to deceive global publics about their objectives and to create misleading impressions about their brand identity. Within sports diplomacy, the term “sportswashing” has been coined recently to describe how governments invest in and promote international sport to create positive global public impressions of their nations and, in doing so, to distract the global public from their deficient records in areas such as human rights and democratic governance. Murray, in his 2018 book Sports Diplomacy: Origins, Theory and Practice, introduces the concept of sports anti-diplomacy, wherein governments intentionally use international sport to advance aggressive and nationalistic objectives. Obvious historical examples include Hitler’s use of the 1936 Berlin Olympics to glorify his Third Reich and the 1969 El Salvador-Honduras football “war.” SUGGESTED READING The beautiful game made ugly By Emily Ryall FIFA argues that it is and seeks to be apolitical in its stewardship of international Association Football (soccer). FIFA policies governing bids to host the World Cup require uninhibited and non-discriminatory access for players, team staff, and spectators of all participating countries to host nations and venues. It became clear soon after Trump returned to power in the United States in January 2025 that Trump’s political intentions and objectives to limit non-US citizens from living and working in the United States and, in numerous cases, even visiting the country, would collide with FIFA’s host nation policies. Beginning soon after the start of the second Trump administration, US federal authorities imposed restrictions on entry to the United States of citizens of between 20 and 40 countries for any purpose, with only limited exceptions. Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began arresting non-US citizens in the United States, including persons with and without legal status, holding them in jails, concentration camps, and other detention facilities until they were deported to their home or third countries, where they faced substantive risks to their personal safety. FIFA boss Gianni Infantino, in an effort to ensure the most successful and lucrative World Cup in history, engaged diplomatically with President Trump in an attempt to facilitate entry to the US for World Cup participants. Infantino did all in his power to ingratiate himself with Trump, to the extent of creating a FIFA “Peace Prize,” which he awarded to Trump in December 2025 at a ceremony in the then Trump-controlled John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, on the occasion of the World Cup draw. The prize was an ersatz consolation for someone who aspired in vain to win the rather more prestigious and well-known Nobel Peace Prize. And in the run-up to the World Cup, conditions became worse. In February 2026, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a war of aggression against Iran, illegal under international law, under the false pretence that Iran’s government was preparing to attack the United States and Israel. During the US aerial bombardment of Iran, US planes bombed Azadi Stadium, the facility where Iran’s national football team trained. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup began, it was clear that Infantino’s efforts had been for naught: the Trump administration would not adhere to FIFA policies governing access to World Cup host nations. World Cup referee Omar Artan, a citizen of Somalia, was denied a US visa to enter the United States to participate in the World Cup. Trump’s government only granted US visas to Iran’s football team ten days before they were scheduled to arrive for the tournament. Numerous members of the support staff for Iran’s team were denied US visas. Iran’s team, which had been scheduled to train in Arizona, was directed to shift its training site to Tijuana, Mexico, notwithstanding that all three of their group stage matches took place at US venues. The US Department of Homeland Security only permitted the Iranian team to enter the US on the day before each scheduled match and then to return to Mexico immediately after playing. Members of Iraq’s and Switzerland’s football teams were delayed for hours by US officials at the US border, and an Iraqi team photographer was refused entry. Spectators and fans from Haïti and Iran were denied entry to the United States altogether. A large number of fans from a range of countries had their applications for US visas rejected. There were multiple off-ramps through which participants could have avoided the negative consequences of Trump’s decisions for the 2026 World Cup. Once it was clear that the Trump government intended to violate the established expectations for World Cup hosts, FIFA could have shifted the matches scheduled to take place in the United States to Mexico and Canada. The three nations were already designated as co-hosts, and host cities and venues had been selected. Once it was clear that FIFA, governed by FIFA boss Gianni Infantino’s dependent and dysfunctional relationship with Trump, would never consider this option on its own, it fell to the national football federations to act. The national federations, particularly some combination of federations of the leading contenders (France, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Morocco, England, Germany, etc.), could have refused to participate under the US-imposed conditions or, at the least, demanded an ironclad agreement with the Trump government that FIFA policies on access would be respected. ___ International sport is inextricably entangled with diplomacy of different sorts, for good or ill, it cannot be considered to be in the purely private realm and left to revenue-maximizing private actors. ___ Why did neither FIFA nor the national football federations act to protect the interests of players, team staff, referees, fans, and spectators? In essence, the relentless engines of capitalism prevailed over norm observance, ethics, and fair play. The revenue interests of FIFA, sponsors, global media, and host cities won out. FIFA’s managers viewed hosting another World Cup principally in the United States as a veritable pot of gold for FIFA and its collaborators. FIFA has estimated its own revenue over the 2023-26 budget cycle, which includes the 2026 World Cup, at $13 billion, revised up from an initial projection of $11 billion, and 72% higher than the previous revenue cycle. Of that total, FIFA is estimated to have generated $8.9 billion from the Cup itself in revenue from TV rights ($3.92 billion), sponsorships ($2.69 billion), ticket sales ($3.1 billion), licensing rights, and other sources. A joint study by FIFA and the World Trade Organization estimates that the World Cup will contribute over $40 billion to global GDP, including nearly $14 billion in direct visitor spending in the three host countries (but principally in the United States, which hosted the lion’s share of the matches). The FIFA World Cup is now reportedly “the single most lucrative recurring commercial property in global sport.” And yet, notwithstanding the Trump government’s uses of the World Cup for sports anti-diplomacy, and the climate of anxiety that this created for participants and spectators, diplomacy that did not depend upon governments was able to thrive at the World Cup. Examples of successful people-to-people diplomacy were legion, as citizens of towns and cities across the States, as well as in Mexico and Canada, welcomed team members, their families and supporters, to training sites across North America. Fans of different teams joined together in person in stadiums for matches, at watch parties and bars, and at welcome events sponsored by host cities. The joy and camaraderie shared between the citizenry of Boston and Scotland’s “Tartan Army” of fans is but one example of how the “Beautiful Game” brings people together. Friendships forged across continents are likely to endure well beyond the Cup final. Even those achievements cannot be seen as unalloyed, however. As South African football fan Byron Pillay commented to Al Jazeera, “Football is called the Beautiful Game for a reason, for its ability to unite people. But it’s hard to believe in that magic with the politics and war rhetoric off the field of play, especially when one of the tournament hosts is central to that.” Ultimately, the experience of the 2026 FIFA World Cup illustrates that, as international sport is inextricably entangled with diplomacy of different sorts, for good or ill, it cannot be considered to be in the purely private realm and left to revenue-maximizing private actors. As long as there is the possibility of diplomatic progress in mediating estrangement between governments or between peoples, there is a broad and overarching public interest in international sport. Likewise, as it would be difficult to put on an international sport mega-event without international sporting organizations like FIFA and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), global media firms, and companies purchasing sponsorships, public and private interests in international sport must coexist, most likely somewhere on a shifting spectrum between partnership and rivalry or cross purposes. As the World Cup wraps up, the IOC needs to consider its lessons before the scheduled 2028 Los Angeles Olympics if they want to avoid a media-hyped Trump version of the 1936 Berlin Olympiad. The IOC and the National Olympic Committees need to set conditions on and make demands of Trump’s government with clearly articulated consequences for non-compliance, up to and including cancellation of the Games. Time is running out for the IOC, as unlike with the FIFA World Cup, there is no at-the-ready alternate venue for Los Angeles.
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