Iran has announced that it will participate in the upcoming World Cup only if its group-stage matches are moved from the United States to Mexico. The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Danialmali, told Turkey-based Anadolu Agency on Sunday that the request to shift venues remains in place due to security concerns. He said Iran’s participation will be confirmed only if FIFA approves the relocation; otherwise, the situation will remain uncertain.

According to the tournament schedule, Iran is set to play three group-stage matches in the United States—against New Zealand on June 16 in Los Angeles, Belgium on June 22 at the same venue, and Egypt on June 27 in Seattle. Although Mexico and Canada are also co-hosts, most matches are planned in the US. Danialmali added that the Iranian team continues its preparations but the government will not finalize its decision without security assurances.

Tensions have escalated in the region following a joint US-Israeli strike on February 28. US President Donald Trump said Iran would be welcomed but acknowledged possible security risks. Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, reaffirmed that the team will not travel to the US without guarantees and will continue discussions with FIFA about moving the matches to Mexico.

The committee formed to investigate alleged irregularities in the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election has submitted its report earlier than scheduled. Although the report was due on April 9, it was handed over on the morning of April 5 to the National Sports Council (NSC). After receiving the report, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque visited BKSP in Savar and announced that the report would be sent to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Speculation had circulated that the BCB board might be dissolved following the report’s submission, but the NSC clarified that no immediate action would be taken. Aminul Haque confirmed that the NSC would decide on further steps only after informing the ICC about the findings. On the same day, former youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan alleged that Aminul Haque was forcing BCB directors to resign through intimidation, a claim the minister denied, saying he had no knowledge of such actions.

The NSC’s decision to consult the ICC indicates that any administrative measures regarding the BCB will depend on the international body’s response.

A probe committee formed to investigate alleged irregularities and favoritism in the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election has submitted its report to the National Sports Council (NSC). The committee interviewed several individuals as part of the inquiry. However, former sports adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan did not respond to the committee’s summons.

In a verified Facebook post on Sunday, April 5, Asif Mahmud explained four reasons for his noncompliance. He stated that the ministry was investigating a matter beyond its jurisdiction since the BCB is an autonomous body. He also argued that the committee’s notification had predetermined conclusions, and that investigating a case pending before the High Court amounted to contempt of court. Additionally, he alleged that the state minister for sports was pressuring board directors to resign or comply for personal gain.

Asif Mahmud concluded that he would not participate in any process he considered irregular or contemptuous of court, which is why he ignored the committee’s interview notice.

An investigation committee formed by the National Sports Council has submitted its report on alleged irregularities in the most recent Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election. The committee was instructed to deliver the report within 15 working days but submitted it earlier on Sunday. Most individuals involved in the election appeared before the committee, except former youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, who did not respond to the summons.

Asif Mahmud, who served as youth and sports adviser during the last BCB election, faced allegations of interference in the electoral process. Despite being called to testify, he did not attend any session with the investigators. Consequently, the committee submitted its report without his statement. The report was officially handed over to the National Sports Council at noon.

Following the submission, the committee’s head, former Justice A.K.M. Asaduzzaman, confirmed that Asif Mahmud had not responded to their call, leaving his perspective absent from the final report.

The Bangladesh Olympic Association has congratulated the Bangladesh Under-20 football team for winning the SAFF U-20 Championship in Malé, Maldives. Bangladesh defeated India 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the final match to claim the title. The association’s president, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, and secretary general, Md. Zobaidur Rahman Rana, extended their heartfelt greetings to the players, coaching staff, officials, and the Bangladesh Football Federation.

In their congratulatory message, the association stated that the victory over a strong opponent like India has opened new possibilities for Bangladesh football. It expressed optimism that this success will have a positive impact on the country’s sports sector and inspire young players to develop their talents with greater professionalism.

The Bangladesh Olympic Association also expressed hope for continued progress in football and other sports disciplines, aiming for more achievements on the international stage.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has congratulated the Bangladesh Under-20 football team for winning the SAFF U-20 Championship. In a message issued after the final match held on April 3, 2026, in Malé, Maldives, he extended greetings to the players, coaching staff, and all involved, expressing hope that such success will continue in the future.

The Prime Minister stated that the government has begun implementing plans to establish sports as a profession and that the young players’ achievement will inspire sports enthusiasts across the country. He praised the team’s unity and patriotism, saying their collective effort has proven that Bangladesh can continue its winning streak both at home and abroad.

Bangladesh defeated India 4–3 in a penalty shootout after a dramatic final that ended in a tie. This marks Bangladesh’s second consecutive SAFF U-20 title, following their previous win in 2024.

Bangladesh clinched the SAFF Under-20 Championship title after a dramatic final against India in Malé, Maldives. The match ended goalless in regulation time, leading to a tense penalty shootout where Bangladesh triumphed 4–3. Goalkeeper Mahin made a crucial early save, while Morshed, Chandan, and Fahim converted their shots. After a 3–3 tie following four rounds, India’s top scorer missed his final attempt, allowing Ronan Sullivan to seal victory with a composed finish.

Throughout the match, Bangladesh showed early dominance in possession and attack, though India increased pressure in the second half. Despite several counterattacks, neither side could score in open play. Declan Sullivan’s introduction added pace to Bangladesh’s offense, but missed chances kept the score level. The Malé Stadium crowd featured strong support from expatriate Bangladeshis, adding to the charged atmosphere.

With this win, Bangladesh reclaimed the SAFF Under-20 title, demonstrating resilience under pressure and tactical discipline against a familiar rival.

Italy’s football leadership has entered turmoil after the national team failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time. Two days after the elimination, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Gabriele Gravina announced his resignation, reversing his earlier refusal to step down. Soon after, Gianluigi Buffon, head of Italy’s football delegation and legendary goalkeeper, also resigned, releasing an emotional statement describing his decision as deeply heartfelt. The wave of resignations continued as head coach Gennaro Gattuso left his position as well.

The resignations follow Italy’s penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ended their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Gravina had led the federation since 2018, during which Italy also missed the 2022 World Cup. Italian media reported that discussions have begun over four potential replacements for Gattuso: Roberto Mancini, Antonio Conte, Massimiliano Allegri, and Pep Guardiola. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mancini is currently the frontrunner, having guided Italy to the Euro 2020 title.

The series of resignations marks another chapter of instability for Italian football, which continues to face intense criticism following repeated qualification failures.

More than half of the countries participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup are facing significant financial challenges due to unresolved tax issues. FIFA has not reached a universal tax exemption agreement with the United States government, and differences in bilateral tax treaties have created uneven conditions among the 48 participating nations. As a result, most national football federations will have to pay federal, state, and local taxes on their tournament earnings.

Experts note that smaller nations without double taxation agreements with the US will bear the heaviest burden. Only 18 countries, mostly European, have such treaties. While Canada and Mexico have granted tax exemptions for all teams, the US has not extended similar benefits. The operational budget per team is set at $1.5 million, but daily allowances have been reduced from $850 to $600 per member, even as travel and accommodation costs in the US have risen.

FIFA has stated it is working with participating nations to provide tax-related assistance. However, the lack of uniform tax relief has become a major concern for smaller and first-time participant countries preparing for the tournament.

Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal has admitted a mistake and expressed regret over the exclusion of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing IPL season. Mustafizur was initially signed for 92 million rupees in the mini auction but was dropped from the squad before the tournament began following a directive from the Indian cricket board citing security concerns.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Dhumal described the situation as unfortunate and said he had limited knowledge of the details. He added that government interference in cricket operations was unnecessary, though sometimes external circumstances influenced decisions. Dhumal expressed hope that reason and fairness would prevail in the future to prevent similar incidents.

Following the decision, the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the government expressed concern over player safety, leading Bangladesh to withdraw from the subsequent World Cup. Mustafizur is currently playing in the Pakistan Super League for Lahore Qalandars under a direct contract worth 64.4 million rupees.

Spain and England both struggled in their final warm-up matches before the upcoming World Cup. In Barcelona, Spain were held to a goalless draw by Egypt despite dominating possession. The 2010 world champions failed to convert several chances, including efforts from Ferran Torres and Pedri. Egypt’s Omar Marmoush nearly scored in the first half, but his long-range shot hit the post. Even after Egypt went down to ten men in the 84th minute, Spain could not find a breakthrough, raising concerns about their form and ranking.

In London, England suffered a 1–0 defeat to Japan at Wembley Stadium. Missing injured striker Harry Kane, coach Thomas Tuchel deployed Phil Foden as a false nine, but the tactic failed to produce results. Japan’s Kaoru Mitoma scored the only goal in the 23rd minute after a defensive error by Cole Palmer. Despite multiple substitutions and late pressure, England could not equalize and faced boos from home fans. The result marked Japan’s first-ever win over England and England’s second loss in twelve matches under Tuchel.

The disappointing outcomes for both European teams have raised questions about their readiness for the World Cup.

Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal has strongly condemned anti-Muslim chants heard during the Spain-Egypt friendly match held at Barcelona’s RCDE Stadium. The match ended in a goalless draw, but the incident in the stands drew widespread attention. Several Spanish supporters were heard chanting anti-Muslim slogans, prompting stadium authorities to issue a warning on the big screen during the first half. Despite the warning, similar chants continued in the second half.

Spain’s football authorities and national team coach Luis de la Fuente have both denounced the incident and expressed firm opposition to such behavior. Yamal, who is Muslim, responded on social media, calling the chants disrespectful and labeling the use of religion as a joke an act of ignorance and racism. He emphasized that football should be a game of enjoyment, not a platform for mocking anyone’s faith or identity.

Yamal concluded his message by thanking supporters and expressing hope to meet them again at the World Cup.

The lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been finalized, marking the first edition to feature 48 teams. Following the completion of playoff matches, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Turkey, Sweden, DR Congo, and Iraq secured the final six spots. Italy, a four-time champion, failed to qualify for the third consecutive tournament after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout. The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Iraq’s 2–1 victory over Bolivia earned them a World Cup berth after 40 years, while Sweden, Turkey, Czech Republic, and DR Congo also celebrated returns after long absences. The expanded format will include 104 matches, with teams divided into 12 groups. Newcomers to the World Cup include Jordan, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, and Curaçao.

The 2026 edition is expected to be the largest in World Cup history, generating heightened anticipation among fans and players as football’s biggest event approaches.

Bangladesh Under-20 women’s football team suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat against Thailand in the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup match held on April 1, 2026. Despite leading 2-0, the team coached by Peter Butler conceded three goals in the second half, including two from penalties, losing a match that seemed within their grasp.

Coach Peter Butler employed a high-line defensive strategy, which initially helped Bangladesh catch Thailand offside several times. Goalkeeper Mili made key interventions early in the game. Sagarika opened the scoring with a long-range strike in the 31st minute and doubled the lead in the 50th minute. However, defensive lapses allowed Thailand to mount a comeback, scoring twice from penalties in the 69th and 75th minutes and sealing victory with a third goal in the 79th minute.

Bangladesh’s late efforts to equalize were unsuccessful, leaving the team to reflect on missed defensive discipline and lost momentum in the second half.

Bangladesh has taken a significant step toward strengthening international cooperation in sports development. On March 30, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) and Beijing Sports University at an event held in Beijing. The agreement was signed by BKSP Director General Brigadier General Mohammad Saif Ullah and Beijing Sports University President Zhang Jiang.

According to officials, the memorandum is not merely ceremonial but aims to open a new chapter of collaboration between Bangladesh and China in the field of sports. It will create opportunities for modern athlete training, coach skill development, and exchange of expertise in sports science and research.

Experts believe that participation in international-level training and research will help young Bangladeshi athletes become more skilled, ultimately strengthening the country’s sports sector in the future.