4 days ago
IOC president Kirsty Coventry's desire is that "politics does not take over on the field of play", but Ukraine and former executives from her organisation have told AFP that politics and sport remain inseparable.
Coventry's view will be sorely tested when Ukrainian and Russian athletes -- the nations embroiled in a war sparked by Russian President Vladimir Putin launching an invasion of Ukraine in 2022 -- compete side-by-side in the Youth Olympics which start in the Senegalese capital Dakar on Saturday.
The 13 Russian athletes will be able to parade with their national flag and hear their national anthem at an Olympic event for the first time since the 2020 Winter Youth Games in Lausanne.
The restoration of such symbols fits with the approach that Coventry indicated she would follow when she spoke at the EU Sporting Forum in Cyprus earlier this year.
"Athletes can only inspire us if they are able to compete," the Zimbabwean two-time Olympic swimming gold medallist said.
#Youth #compete
Coventry's view will be sorely tested when Ukrainian and Russian athletes -- the nations embroiled in a war sparked by Russian President Vladimir Putin launching an invasion of Ukraine in 2022 -- compete side-by-side in the Youth Olympics which start in the Senegalese capital Dakar on Saturday.
The 13 Russian athletes will be able to parade with their national flag and hear their national anthem at an Olympic event for the first time since the 2020 Winter Youth Games in Lausanne.
The restoration of such symbols fits with the approach that Coventry indicated she would follow when she spoke at the EU Sporting Forum in Cyprus earlier this year.
"Athletes can only inspire us if they are able to compete," the Zimbabwean two-time Olympic swimming gold medallist said.
#Youth #compete
27 days ago
PARIS (AP) — Chanel's artistic director Matthieu Blazy sent the fashion house's suits stretching towards sportswear and evening dresses drifting through clouds, with Nicole Kidman, Dua Lipa and Pedro Pascal in the audience as he unveiled his spring-summer 2027 collection.
The Monday night show underscored that a year into his creative revival, Blazy has made the house feel newly unpredictable.
The former Bottega Veneta designer succeeded Virginie Viard, who took over after Karl Lagerfeld 's death in 2019. Viard's tenure brought record sales but Blazy's contribution has been to restore a sense that Chanel's familiar ingredients can produce something unexpected.
That renewal is visible in his treatment of the house's symbols: tweed can stretch; formal jackets sit against bare skin; quilted bags turn slouchy.
The appeal lies in giving established clients something recognizable, and newer ones something to reinterpret.
#kidman
The Monday night show underscored that a year into his creative revival, Blazy has made the house feel newly unpredictable.
The former Bottega Veneta designer succeeded Virginie Viard, who took over after Karl Lagerfeld 's death in 2019. Viard's tenure brought record sales but Blazy's contribution has been to restore a sense that Chanel's familiar ingredients can produce something unexpected.
That renewal is visible in his treatment of the house's symbols: tweed can stretch; formal jackets sit against bare skin; quilted bags turn slouchy.
The appeal lies in giving established clients something recognizable, and newer ones something to reinterpret.
#kidman
2 months ago
Mel Gibson has issued an apology for his behavior during a public event amid mounting backlash. During his recent appearance at FanExpo Canada, Gibson mocked an ASL interpreter as he walked onto the stage for his retrospective Q&A. The video quickly went viral online. Users called out Gibson for his insensitive behaviour, for which Gibson has since issued an apology.
The moment, as caught on camera, saw Mel Gibson enter the spotlight on stage and begin making gibberish symbols with his hands, with the ASL interpreter standing right in front of him, with his back to her. The moment was brief, but fans found it to be in poor taste anyway.
Regarding the moment, Gibson said, "Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight, your mind is all over the place, and sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed. There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it."
FanExpo Canada is an annual event that is a hub for pop culture media enthusiasts. Be it films, shows, anime, gaming, or celebrities, the Expo serves as the biggest event of its kind in Canada, and the third biggest in the continent of North America. The event draws celebs and fans alike, allowing the latter to attend signings and photo opportunities.
The organizers of the event have not issued a statement regarding Mel Gibson's actions. However, fans were quick to contrast his behaviour with that of Reacher star Alan Ritchson, who shook hands with the ASL interpreter once his QnA session concluded. Other celebrities that graced the event included nerd culture legends like Mark Hamill, wrestler-turned-actor John Cena, and Mr. T.
#issued
The moment, as caught on camera, saw Mel Gibson enter the spotlight on stage and begin making gibberish symbols with his hands, with the ASL interpreter standing right in front of him, with his back to her. The moment was brief, but fans found it to be in poor taste anyway.
Regarding the moment, Gibson said, "Sometimes when you get pushed out on a stage in a spotlight, your mind is all over the place, and sometimes spontaneous thoughtless idiocy is displayed. There was no intended maliciousness attached, and I certainly apologize to anyone who was upset by it."
FanExpo Canada is an annual event that is a hub for pop culture media enthusiasts. Be it films, shows, anime, gaming, or celebrities, the Expo serves as the biggest event of its kind in Canada, and the third biggest in the continent of North America. The event draws celebs and fans alike, allowing the latter to attend signings and photo opportunities.
The organizers of the event have not issued a statement regarding Mel Gibson's actions. However, fans were quick to contrast his behaviour with that of Reacher star Alan Ritchson, who shook hands with the ASL interpreter once his QnA session concluded. Other celebrities that graced the event included nerd culture legends like Mark Hamill, wrestler-turned-actor John Cena, and Mr. T.
#issued
3 months ago
Inspired by the strength and resilience of the lotus flower, the new kit celebrates the athletes' leading role and marks another groundbreaking chapter in the partnership between New Balance and the club
New Balance and São Paulo Futebol Clube unveiled this Monday (17) the new third kit for the women's team for the 2026 season. For the first time in its history, the club will have an exclusive third kit for the women's team, in a launch that reinforces the players' prominence and marks another exclusive project by New Balance with São Paulo.
The new kit is part of the club's 2026 collection, which begins the countdown to the Tricolor's centenary and celebrates the so-called Tricolor DNA, a concept ***** ociated with the pioneering spirit and forward-thinking approach that are part of São Paulo's history. For the women's third shirt, New Balance sought to translate these elements through its own visual language, drawing inspiration from the lotus flower, a symbol of strength, resilience, and the ability to bloom even in the most challenging conditions.
The choice of the lotus flower is reflected both in the campaign's narrative and in the kit's visual design. In a lilac tone, the shirt features floral elements applied as a watermark throughout the piece. A subtle gradient at the bottom adds depth to the look and highlights the presence of these graphics in a refined way that is fully integrated into the fabric.
The result is a piece that combines a contemporary aesthetic with symbols that reinforce the identity of the women's team. Details include the São Paulo crest in 3D TPU with a glossy finish, featuring the inscription Tricolor DNA inside, as well as the New Balance logo, also in 3D TPU. The collar, made with layered fabric and ribbing, and the cuff in contrasting fabric complete the design. Made from 100% recycled polyester, the new kit is designed for comfort and performance, using breathable fabrics with NB Dry technology on the front and sleeves, helping absorb and quickly evaporate sweat during sports activities.
#balance #paulo #fabric
New Balance and São Paulo Futebol Clube unveiled this Monday (17) the new third kit for the women's team for the 2026 season. For the first time in its history, the club will have an exclusive third kit for the women's team, in a launch that reinforces the players' prominence and marks another exclusive project by New Balance with São Paulo.
The new kit is part of the club's 2026 collection, which begins the countdown to the Tricolor's centenary and celebrates the so-called Tricolor DNA, a concept ***** ociated with the pioneering spirit and forward-thinking approach that are part of São Paulo's history. For the women's third shirt, New Balance sought to translate these elements through its own visual language, drawing inspiration from the lotus flower, a symbol of strength, resilience, and the ability to bloom even in the most challenging conditions.
The choice of the lotus flower is reflected both in the campaign's narrative and in the kit's visual design. In a lilac tone, the shirt features floral elements applied as a watermark throughout the piece. A subtle gradient at the bottom adds depth to the look and highlights the presence of these graphics in a refined way that is fully integrated into the fabric.
The result is a piece that combines a contemporary aesthetic with symbols that reinforce the identity of the women's team. Details include the São Paulo crest in 3D TPU with a glossy finish, featuring the inscription Tricolor DNA inside, as well as the New Balance logo, also in 3D TPU. The collar, made with layered fabric and ribbing, and the cuff in contrasting fabric complete the design. Made from 100% recycled polyester, the new kit is designed for comfort and performance, using breathable fabrics with NB Dry technology on the front and sleeves, helping absorb and quickly evaporate sweat during sports activities.
#balance #paulo #fabric
3 months ago
From the FIA easing restrictions to allow Russian and Belarusian drivers and teams to compete under their national flags again to Lightning McQueen being set for an official Formula 1 appearance, here are the biggest stories from August 14.
The FIA has lifted the restrictions previously imposed on Russian and Belarusian participants in international motorsport, following a decision approved by the World Motor Sport Council. Drivers, teams, individual competitors and officials from both countries can now take part without having to compete under neutral status or sign a neutrality commitment.
The change also means Russian and Belarusian national symbols can once again be displayed at international and zone competitions. National flags, colours and symbols are permitted on cars, equipment and uniforms, while the respective national anthems can also be played. However, the FIA continues to prohibit international and zone events from being held in Russia or Belarus until further notice.
Participation will still depend on the laws and regulations applicable in the country hosting each event. The governing body will also continue to follow developments in Ukraine and retains the ability to introduce further measures if circumstances change, including action required to comply with sanctions regimes or its contractual obligations.
Photo: GPblog
#compete #flags
The FIA has lifted the restrictions previously imposed on Russian and Belarusian participants in international motorsport, following a decision approved by the World Motor Sport Council. Drivers, teams, individual competitors and officials from both countries can now take part without having to compete under neutral status or sign a neutrality commitment.
The change also means Russian and Belarusian national symbols can once again be displayed at international and zone competitions. National flags, colours and symbols are permitted on cars, equipment and uniforms, while the respective national anthems can also be played. However, the FIA continues to prohibit international and zone events from being held in Russia or Belarus until further notice.
Participation will still depend on the laws and regulations applicable in the country hosting each event. The governing body will also continue to follow developments in Ukraine and retains the ability to introduce further measures if circumstances change, including action required to comply with sanctions regimes or its contractual obligations.
Photo: GPblog
#compete #flags
3 months ago
A scam targeting older Americans is turning one of the oldest symbols of financial security — gold — into a way for criminals to steal retirees' savings.
The New York Police Department is investigating a scheme in which victims have collectively lost more than $100 million, according to ABC News. The investigation, which began in May 2024, involves the NYPD, the Department of Homeland Security, the IRS and law enforcement agencies in other states because authorities say the scheme is not limited to New York.
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
Millionaires under 43 hold only 25% of their wealth in stocks. Here's where their money is actually going
#americans #wealth #police
The New York Police Department is investigating a scheme in which victims have collectively lost more than $100 million, according to ABC News. The investigation, which began in May 2024, involves the NYPD, the Department of Homeland Security, the IRS and law enforcement agencies in other states because authorities say the scheme is not limited to New York.
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
Millionaires under 43 hold only 25% of their wealth in stocks. Here's where their money is actually going
#americans #wealth #police
3 months ago
Despite all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes being lifted by the World Gymnastics, they will only be allowed to compete under neutral status at the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships in Frankfurt.
The agreement was made with the German Gymnastics Federation (DTB), the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), and World Gymnastics in collaboration with the German federal government.
The same will apply to the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Croatia, where the government decided to apply all measures relating to the non-use of Russian and Belarusian national flags, anthems, national symbols and national identifiers," according to European Gymnastics, the relevant governing body.
Under a neutral status, no national flags and anthems will be used during the medal ceremony if gymnasts from either country win a medal.
The decision is likely in line with the views of DTB president Alfons Hölzl. He stated in July that, in his view, it was "understandable that one would not want to allow the World Championships to be used as a platform for propaganda for Putin or Russia."
#gymnastics #championships #german #russian
The agreement was made with the German Gymnastics Federation (DTB), the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), and World Gymnastics in collaboration with the German federal government.
The same will apply to the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Croatia, where the government decided to apply all measures relating to the non-use of Russian and Belarusian national flags, anthems, national symbols and national identifiers," according to European Gymnastics, the relevant governing body.
Under a neutral status, no national flags and anthems will be used during the medal ceremony if gymnasts from either country win a medal.
The decision is likely in line with the views of DTB president Alfons Hölzl. He stated in July that, in his view, it was "understandable that one would not want to allow the World Championships to be used as a platform for propaganda for Putin or Russia."
#gymnastics #championships #german #russian
3 months ago
All our journeys begin with a plane. A flight that takes us far away, to the other side of the world, with one certainty accompanying every departure: wherever we land, we will find an Inter family waiting for us.
That is the strength of being an Inter fan. A bond that knows no boundaries and, if anything, seems to grow stronger the further we are from Milan and San Siro. From Hong Kong to Perth, the affection, passion and unwavering devotion to the Nerazzurri colours never once wavered. Chants, banners, marches: a home away from home.
Ten days on tour that brought together football and people. Three high-level international fixtures against Manchester City, AC Milan and Juventus provided the team with valuable competitive minutes and momentum, with goals, key insights and important playing time ahead of the new season. In Hong Kong came the opening fixture against Manchester City, in a spectacular global setting; in Perth, the historic derby against AC Milan, the first to be played on Australian soil; and finally, the clash with Juventus to bring the tour to a close.
In Hong Kong, Inter built a continuous presence day after day. The team's arrival with partner Qatar Airways, travelling around the city and taking part in various local activities. The visit to BYD's headquarters in Shenzhen, at the heart of one of the world's most advanced technology hubs. In the city, the Fanatics Store at Hysan Place became a meeting point for the Nerazzurri faithful, where Christian Vieri met supporters for photos, autographs and a constant stream of passionate fans.In the stands during Manchester City vs. Inter, the supporters' choreography filled the stadium with colour, transforming an international fixture into a powerful expression of identity. Then, in the evening, the skyline took centre stage: a drone show lit up the Hong Kong sky with Nerazzurri symbols, colours and references, taking the Club beyond the pitch and into the heart of the city.
In Perth, the story became even more tangible and community-focused. Brookfield Place was transformed into the heart of Nerazzurri life: a fan zone, a meeting place and a shared ******* e for anticipation. Supporters and Inter Club members travelling from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Indonesia, along with youngsters from Inter Academy Sydney, gathered in the same places every day, creating a genuine sense of continuity between the team and the community.
#kong #nerazzurri #Milan #place
That is the strength of being an Inter fan. A bond that knows no boundaries and, if anything, seems to grow stronger the further we are from Milan and San Siro. From Hong Kong to Perth, the affection, passion and unwavering devotion to the Nerazzurri colours never once wavered. Chants, banners, marches: a home away from home.
Ten days on tour that brought together football and people. Three high-level international fixtures against Manchester City, AC Milan and Juventus provided the team with valuable competitive minutes and momentum, with goals, key insights and important playing time ahead of the new season. In Hong Kong came the opening fixture against Manchester City, in a spectacular global setting; in Perth, the historic derby against AC Milan, the first to be played on Australian soil; and finally, the clash with Juventus to bring the tour to a close.
In Hong Kong, Inter built a continuous presence day after day. The team's arrival with partner Qatar Airways, travelling around the city and taking part in various local activities. The visit to BYD's headquarters in Shenzhen, at the heart of one of the world's most advanced technology hubs. In the city, the Fanatics Store at Hysan Place became a meeting point for the Nerazzurri faithful, where Christian Vieri met supporters for photos, autographs and a constant stream of passionate fans.In the stands during Manchester City vs. Inter, the supporters' choreography filled the stadium with colour, transforming an international fixture into a powerful expression of identity. Then, in the evening, the skyline took centre stage: a drone show lit up the Hong Kong sky with Nerazzurri symbols, colours and references, taking the Club beyond the pitch and into the heart of the city.
In Perth, the story became even more tangible and community-focused. Brookfield Place was transformed into the heart of Nerazzurri life: a fan zone, a meeting place and a shared ******* e for anticipation. Supporters and Inter Club members travelling from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Indonesia, along with youngsters from Inter Academy Sydney, gathered in the same places every day, creating a genuine sense of continuity between the team and the community.
#kong #nerazzurri #Milan #place
3 months ago
Perth is embracing the Nerazzurri. In the opening days of the Summer Tour, Inter have already found a home away from home, with Brookfield Place becoming the beating heart of the Club's support and a hub that will host the team throughout its stay in the city.
The first meeting between the squad and the fans immediately established a sense of excitement and togetherness. Piotr Zieliński and Yann-Aurel Bisseck were welcomed by dozens of supporters, taking time for photos, autographs and special moments with the Nerazzurri faithful. It was another reminder that the bond with Inter stretches far beyond geographical borders.
Adding to the occasion were the two trophies from the Club's Double-winning season, displayed for supporters throughout the event. Tangible symbols of a remarkable campaign, they quickly became the focal point for photographs and celebrations, creating a direct link between Milano and Perth, between recent history and the Club's global fanbase.
This was only the beginning. Over the coming days, the Nerazzurri fan hub will continue to host a series of events, with Club Legends joining the trophies for more opportunities to meet supporters and celebrate together.
There will also be pre-match events, fan activations and a host of initiatives that will transform the venue into a true Inter headquarters, ready to welcome supporters ahead of the fixtures against AC Milan and Juventus.
#Inter #trophies #Events
The first meeting between the squad and the fans immediately established a sense of excitement and togetherness. Piotr Zieliński and Yann-Aurel Bisseck were welcomed by dozens of supporters, taking time for photos, autographs and special moments with the Nerazzurri faithful. It was another reminder that the bond with Inter stretches far beyond geographical borders.
Adding to the occasion were the two trophies from the Club's Double-winning season, displayed for supporters throughout the event. Tangible symbols of a remarkable campaign, they quickly became the focal point for photographs and celebrations, creating a direct link between Milano and Perth, between recent history and the Club's global fanbase.
This was only the beginning. Over the coming days, the Nerazzurri fan hub will continue to host a series of events, with Club Legends joining the trophies for more opportunities to meet supporters and celebrate together.
There will also be pre-match events, fan activations and a host of initiatives that will transform the venue into a true Inter headquarters, ready to welcome supporters ahead of the fixtures against AC Milan and Juventus.
#Inter #trophies #Events
3 months ago
Manchester City launched their new away kit on a floating pitch at the picturesque setting of the harbour in Hong Kong.
Phil Foden, Abdukodir Khusanov and Ryan McAidoo were on stage in front of scores of fans before revealing the black and yellow Puma kit, which is finished with a swarm of worker bees - a nod to one of Manchester's most recognisable symbols.
City say the bee signifies the "graft, unity and resilience that define the city" with the kit "reinforcing a shared commitment to the city, its people and the authentic connection between the club and the communities that surround it".
Puma vice president Dominique Gauthier said: "This kit is about giving Manchester City players a shirt that performs at the highest level while carrying real meaning for the city and its fans.
"We wanted every detail to reflect the identity of this club and the culture around it. It's a shirt built for the pitch but made to be worn with pride well beyond it."
#puma #shirt #hong #phil
Phil Foden, Abdukodir Khusanov and Ryan McAidoo were on stage in front of scores of fans before revealing the black and yellow Puma kit, which is finished with a swarm of worker bees - a nod to one of Manchester's most recognisable symbols.
City say the bee signifies the "graft, unity and resilience that define the city" with the kit "reinforcing a shared commitment to the city, its people and the authentic connection between the club and the communities that surround it".
Puma vice president Dominique Gauthier said: "This kit is about giving Manchester City players a shirt that performs at the highest level while carrying real meaning for the city and its fans.
"We wanted every detail to reflect the identity of this club and the culture around it. It's a shirt built for the pitch but made to be worn with pride well beyond it."
#puma #shirt #hong #phil
