Sports
France striker, Giroud hints at retirement from Les Bleus

Olivier Giroud has announced that he will retire from international football after next month’s European Championship. In an interview with L’Equipe, the 37-year-old French striker emphasized his desire to avoid overstaying his welcome on the international stage, saying he does not want to play “one season too many.”
Giroud recently transferred from AC Milan to Major League Soccer side LAFC. He has had a distinguished international career with France, making 131 appearances and scoring more goals for Les Bleus than any other player, surpassing Thierry Henry’s record. A key highlight of his career was winning the World Cup in 2018.
Reflecting on his decision, Giroud expressed a sense of fulfillment and readiness to step aside for the next generation of players. He acknowledged that he will miss playing for the national team but believes it is the right time to retire from international football.
“To be honest, this will be my last competition with Les Bleus. Obviously, I’m going to miss it a lot. But I think the French team will be over after the Euros. We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have too many. You have to find the right balance. I’ve always said that I was going to stop when my body asked me to,” Giroud stated.
Sports
Ex-Super Eagles Coach, Oliseh Gets IFAB Appointment
Oliseh confirmed this appointment via his official X account on Monday.

Former Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, has landed a new role with the International Football Association Board, IFAB.
IFAB is the global guardian of football’s laws, responsible for determining the laws of football, shaping the beautiful game for players and fans worldwide.
Oliseh confirmed this appointment via his official X account on Monday.
He wrote: “Thrilled to announce my appointment to the International Football Association Board (IFAB)!
“Honored to contribute to its mission!”Oliseh’s appointment to the IFAB board will see the former Dortmund and Juventus midfielder work with some of football’s most influential figures, including legendary Arsenal boss, Arsène Wenger.
Sports
Future National Sports Festival to hold November/ December – Dikko
He added that the Commission, in line with the President’s directive, is working to transform sports into a key economic driver.

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, says that the Commission is developing a national calendar that will set November and December as the fixed months for hosting the festival.
Dikko disclosed this during a World Media Chat held at the Local Organizing Committee Secretariat, yesterday.
He commended Ogun State for its outstanding hosting of the ongoing National Sports Festival, describing it as a game-changer for sports development in Nigeria.
He called on other states aspiring to host future editions to emulate and improve on the standard set by Ogun.
Dikko noted that the entire country is taking note of the impressive organization and swift handling of challenges during the festival.
“This festival is a major improvement from previous editions.
“It is normal to experience hitches in events of this magnitude, but the prompt resolution of those issues shows great commitment. This edition will serve as a benchmark for future games.”Dikko emphasized.
He added that the Commission, in line with the President’s directive, is working to transform sports into a key economic driver.
“We are building a sports economy—beyond the games, we are looking at job creation, the value chain, and revenue generation.
Ogun’s example is now motivating other states to step forward and host,” he explained.
Sports
Saudi Arabia to lift 73-year-old alcohol ban ahead of FIFA World Cup 2034
Around 600 such licensed venues across the country are expected to be permitted to serve alcohol under the new guidelines.

The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is preparing to partially lift its 73-year-old ban on alcohol sales in 2026.
The change comes as part of broader efforts to align with global expectations ahead of hosting major international events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.
The Economic Times, reported that alcohol will be available in a strictly controlled manner, limited to select zones such as luxury hotels, high-end resorts, and designated tourist destinations.
Around 600 such licensed venues across the country are expected to be permitted to serve alcohol under the new guidelines.
However, there will be clear limitations. Only milder forms of alcohol – beer, wine, and cider will be allowed.
Spirits and hard liquors will remain prohibited. Importantly, alcohol consumption will not be permitted in homes, shops, or general public areas.
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are the only Gulf countries that prohibit the sale of alcohol.
A minor move to allow alcoholic drinks to be consumed in the kingdom was the opening of the first alcohol store in the capital, Riyadh, last year serving exclusively non-Muslim diplomats.
Prior to that, alcohol was available only through diplomatic mail or on the black market.
-
Business3 days ago
“Only 37% of Nigerian roads are in good condition ” – MAN
-
Entertainment2 days ago
BREAKING: Segun Arinze Re-elected AVOA President
-
News3 days ago
Mauritania’s Tah succeeds Adesina as 9th AfDB President
-
News2 days ago
2027: Hurdles Before The Coalition, By Emeka Monye
-
News2 hours ago
CASER Launches Prince Nduka Obaigbena National Secondary School Essay Competition