Sports
Kano Athletes Tragedy: Governor Abiodun Supports Victims’ Families with N1 Million Each
This was a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community, and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun commiserated with the government and people of Kano state over the loss of athletes and officials returning home from the just-concluded National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged, Gateway Games 2024.
The Governor also gave N1 million each to the families of the victims as initial support over the loss of their loved ones, totaling N31 million.
The message was delivered on behalf of the governor by a delegation led by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi; the state Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka; and the Executive Secretary of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Gateway Games 2024, Dr Kweku Tandoh.
The delegation was received by officials of the Kano State Government, led by the state’s Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo.
: “We know that the Governor is out of the state on Hajj, but we felt we had to be here to show our support to the Governor, the Government, and the people of Kano State in these trying times.
This was a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community, and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident.
We also pray for the speedy recovery of the other people who are in the hospital at this time, who rushed to the aid of the victims,” said Engr. Salako-Oyedele.
The Kano Deputy Governor expressed the State Government’s appreciation for the visit.
He disclosed that Governor Abiodun had called to commiserate with the government and people of Kano State over the incident on Saturday.
Sports
2026 World Cup: FIFA probes 8,000-ticket resale scheme in Miami
While Ticket Kings claims it aims to “democratise access to live entertainment”, FIFA has vowed to block unauthorised investment schemes and prevent black-market practices from affecting the integrity of the World Cup ticket market.
FIFA has opened an investigation into a ticket resale plan promoted by Miami-based firm Ticket Kings, which allegedly sought investors with promises of high profits from reselling tickets for the 2026 World Cup.
In the promotional documents, Ticket Kings aimed to raise $5.5 million to buy around 8,000 tickets for matches involving England, Brazil, and Scotland. Investors were promised returns of 50% to 87% within six months.
The company described the scheme as a “unique investment opportunity” capitalising on global demand for World Cup tickets.FIFA said bulk ticket reselling for profit violates its rules.
A spokesperson confirmed that the enforcement team is reviewing the case and will take “appropriate action”, stressing that the ticketing system is designed to protect fans and prevent price manipulation.
The probe comes amid growing frustration over record-high ticket costs for the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Reports show resale prices for the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, have reached $8,600, with one listing on FIFA’s platform reportedly hitting $230,000.
Critics warn schemes like Ticket Kings could fuel speculation, widening the gap between face-value and resale prices and making matches less accessible to ordinary supporters.
While Ticket Kings claims it aims to “democratise access to live entertainment”, FIFA has vowed to block unauthorised investment schemes and prevent black-market practices from affecting the integrity of the World Cup ticket market.
Sports
FIFA proposes one‑minute off‑field rule for injured players
If approved, the measure would be incorporated into football’s global rulebook.
FIFA on Monday proposed a new rule that would require players who receive on-field medical treatment to remain off the pitch for at least one minute.
BBC Sport reported that the proposal which is aimed at reducing time-wasting on the pitch, will be discussed during the annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board, the body responsible for the Laws of the Game.
If approved, the measure would be incorporated into football’s global rulebook.
At present, the Laws of the Game do not specify a mandatory period that injured players must stay off the field after treatment. Domestic competitions are allowed to implement their own guidelines.
Sports
48 nations to compete as FIFA releases schedule for Series 2026
Twelve groups of four teams each—nine men’s groups and three women’s groups—will compete, hosted by 11 FIFA Member Associations.
FIFA has released the full match schedule for the FIFA Series 2026, the expanded edition of its international friendly tournament, which will bring together 48 national teams from all six confederations.
The fixtures, published on the association’s website on Monday, are scheduled for the March and April 2026 international match window.
Twelve groups of four teams each—nine men’s groups and three women’s groups—will compete, hosted by 11 FIFA Member Associations.
Rwanda will stage two groups, while other hosts include Australia, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Switzerland, Thailand, and Uzbekistan.
All matches are official international friendlies and will be broadcast globally, providing fans worldwide with access and giving participating teams valuable exposure, particularly for those that rarely face opponents from other confederations.
According to FIFA, participating Member Associations have chosen their preferred competition formats within each group, either a semi-final and final structure.
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