Ascot’s Christmas Racing Weekend begins with a thrilling Grade Two Noel Novices’ Chase, featuring top contenders like Johnnywho and Rare Edition. Other key races include the Howden Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase and the Listed King Edward VII Ascot Membership Open National Hunt Flat Race. The races will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing.
Brendan Dolan is set for his 17th World Darts Championship appearance, aiming for a strong finish after recovering from a shoulder injury. Despite a difficult period with early tournament exits, he’s regained form through rehab and dedicated practice in his new dart room. Supported by family and his community, Dolan is quietly confident he’ll progress past the second round.
Wladimir Klitschko predicts Oleksandr Usyk will defeat Tyson Fury in their rematch this Saturday. Klitschko highlights Usyk’s strategy and technique as key factors. Usyk aims to retain his world titles, while Fury seeks revenge. The fight, airing on Sky Sports Box Office, is a highly anticipated event.
Justin Herbert led the Los Angeles Chargers to a thrilling 34-27 comeback victory against the Denver Broncos. Herbert threw for 284 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, while Cameron Dicker made NFL history with a successful fair-catch kick. The Chargers’ playoff hopes remain alive, while the Broncos, despite the loss, still have a strong chance of making the postseason.
Australia dropped opener Nathan McSweeney from their squad for the Boxing Day Test against India due to poor performance in the ongoing series. Young batsman Sam Konstas has received his maiden Test call-up, while Josh Inglis also contends for a spot. Usman Khawaja’s form is under scrutiny. Injured Josh Hazlewood is replaced by Scott Boland. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is currently tied 1-1.
Tottenham Hotspur edged Manchester United 4-3 in a thrilling Carabao Cup clash despite goalkeeper Fraser Forster’s two errors. Manager Ange Postecoglou defended his goalkeeper and playing style, emphasizing the team’s overall positive performance and long-term vision. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag provided insights into omitting Marcus Rashford and analyzed the match, acknowledging a decisive eight-minute period that cost his side the victory.
Rangers were denied a penalty in the Scottish League Cup final against Celtic, a decision that has been controversially admitted to be incorrect by the SFA’s head of refereeing, Willie Collum. Celtic defender Liam Scales’ foul on Vaclav Cerny was deemed to have occurred outside the penalty area by the referee and VAR officials. This has sparked outrage from Rangers and calls for explanations regarding the use of VAR. The incident has fueled the already intense debate surrounding the use of VAR in football.
The ICC has announced that all matches between India and Pakistan in ICC tournaments, including the upcoming Champions Trophy, will be played at neutral venues until 2027 due to ongoing political tensions. This decision ensures the participation of both teams in major tournaments. The Champions Trophy will be held in February 2025, marking Pakistan’s return to hosting a global event after a significant gap.
Prince Harry’s new Netflix docuseries, “Polo,” released on December 10, features the Duke of Sussex reflecting on his past experiences playing polo with his father, King Charles. The series uses the sport as a backdrop to subtly explore Harry’s strained relationship with his family, creating a compelling narrative that blends sports, personal reflection, and subtle commentary on the royal family.
The Friedkin Group has finalized its takeover of Everton Football Club, marking a new era for the Premier League club. The group, led by billionaire Dan Friedkin, aims to bring financial stability and restore the club’s on-field success. While the group’s previous experience with AS Roma provides a mixed record, Everton fans are hopeful for a brighter future, particularly with their new state-of-the-art stadium.
