As the 2026 tournament approaches, Fifa’s World Cup hosting controversies reach new extremes, writes JAMES NALTON
NEWCASTLE director of rugby Steve Diamond has called for more accountability in refereeing decisions after receiving a six-match ban for verbal abuse towards match officials.
Diamond appeared before an independent disciplinary panel and was given the suspension after admitting the charge, which took place during Falcons’ 17-15 Premiership defeat to Exeter.
A controversial finish saw Greg Fisilau’s try snatch a last-minute victory and Diamond was unhappy after feeling there was an illegal clear-out ruck in the build-up to the game-winning score.
Governing body says officials acted within laws and player welfare remains top priority
It’s tiring always being viewed as the ‘wrong sort of woman,’ writes JENNA, a woman who has exited the sex industry



