As the 2025 Championships kick off, Pacific island nations continue to defy the odds — proving that population size is no barrier to producing world-class sport, writes JAMES NALTON
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Maradona claims eye gesture wasn't racist
In a town shaped by hardship and history, a grassroots boxing club led by Andrew McFarlane gives purpose to the next generation — including a rising champion, writes JOHN WIGHT
DIEGO MARADONA said yesterday that there was nothing racist about his exchange with an Asian fan during Argentina’s draw with Iceland.
British television staff working in Spartak Stadium in Moscow during the 1-1 stalemate on Saturday reported seeing Maradona respond to South Korea fans calling his name.
On Twitter, BBC presenter Jacqui Oatley posted that Maradona “obliged with a smile, kiss and wave. Then pulled his eyes to the side in a clearly racist gesture.”
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