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Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026: India men beat Canada 4-1; women go down 2-3 to host Denmark Lakshya Sen endured a tough loss, but Ayush Shetty and the doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty registered wins as 2022 champion India notched up a commanding 4-1 win over Canada in its opening Group A tie of the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens on Friday.However, there was disappointment in store in the women’s section as India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in the opening Group A tie of the Uber Cup Finals.After Lakshya’s spirited effort ended in an 18-21, 21-19, 21-10 loss to world No. 13 Victor Lai, World No. 4 Satwik and Chirag levelled the tie with a dominant 21-10, 21-11 win over Jonathan Bing Tsan Lai and Kevin Lee.The 20-year-old Ayush, runner-up at the recent Asia Championships, then outwitted world No. 33 Brian Yang 21-13, 21-17 in 39 minutes to hand India a 2-1 lead.The second doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and M R Arjun sealed the tie for India with a convincing 21-7 21-15 victory over Ty Alexander Lindeman and Nyl Yakura.Kidambi Srikanth then outsmarted world No. 77 Joshua Nguyen 21-17, 21-12 in the inconsequential fifth match as India wrapped up the match 4-1 to be placed second in the table behind China.China, 11-time winner and defending champion, beat Australia 5-0.The top two teams from each of the four groups will qualify for the quarterfinals.“Really happy with the way we played today… although we were down 0-1, we’re happy that we could get a point for the team and make it 1-0.“We don’t want to keep so many expectations; we just want to enjoy as much as possible. It’s a long tournament; we have a three-day break now. There are new people who have come in; they are young, and everyone is in good spirits,” Satwik told reporters.“We just want to have some good memories in 10 days because you don’t get time. It’s a team event; let’s have some fun. We’re taking one day at a time.”In the Uber Cup, India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in their opening tie of Group A.Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu put India ahead with a tough 21-13, 18-21, 21-17 win over Denmark’s World No. 21 Line Christophersen.World No. 3 Unnati Hooda then produced a late fightback and saved multiple match points before going down 12-21, 23-25 against world No. 26 Line Hojmark Kjaersfeldt, who won a silver medal at the 2026 European Badminton Championships early this month.Tanvi Sharma went down to Amalie Schulz 21-19, 16-21, 16-21 in a 54-minute contest after taking the opening game as India trailed 1-2.In their must-win rubber, the women’s doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Priya Konjengbam missed two match points before losing the decider to Amalie Cecilie Kudsk and Mette Werge 17-21, 21-11, 21-23 in a one-hour and 15-minute battle.In the final inconsequential rubber, Tanisha Crasto and PV registered a win after Alexandra Boje and Christine Busch conceded the match in the second game.The Indian pair had taken the first game 21-19 and were trailing 14-17 when the Danish duo retired after 36 minutes of play.Lakshya vs LaiIt turned into another energy-sapping contest, reminiscent of the All England semifinal, with Lakshya and Lai locked in long, draining rallies.Lakshya dictated early with sharp net play and smashes, doing enough to take the opening game despite Lai closing in from 14-18.Lai hit back after the change of ends, racing to 7-2 and unsettling the Indian with clever deception and changes of pace to lead 11-7.A 45-shot rally sparked a brief comeback as Lakshya drew level at 12-12, but Lai held firm in the closing stages, edging a tight finish after 19-19 with a net winner and a composed duel.The decider was one-sided as Lai surged to 4-1 and 10-3, carrying the momentum to 11-5 at the break. Lakshya struggled to keep up as the Canadian mixed precision with power to move to 16-8 before sealing the match when the Indian went long, avenging his Birmingham loss.India next faces Australia and China on Monday and Wednesday.Sindhu vs ChristophersenSindhu started slowly before cruising through the opening game but was pushed into a decider by Christophersen.The Dane raised her intensity in the second, matching Sindhu stroke for stroke from 6-6 to 11-11 and edging ahead 16-15 before forcing the decider as errors crept into the Indian’s game.Backed by chants from the Indian camp, Sindhu relied on her deception and angles to stay in the contest.Christophersen mixed pace well early in the third to lead 4-3, but Sindhu responded with three quick points to go 9-8 up and held a narrow edge at the interval.The Dane again moved ahead 15-12 but faltered with errors as Sindhu drew level at 15-15.In a nervy finish, Sindhu held her composure, winning six of the last seven points to move 18-16 ahead before finishing with a body smash and a down-the-line winner to seal the match.Published on Apr 24, 2026 #Thomas #Uber #Cup #Finals #India #men #beat #Canada #women #host #Denmark

Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026: India men beat Canada 4-1; women go down 2-3 to host Denmark

Lakshya Sen endured a tough loss, but Ayush Shetty and the doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty registered wins as 2022 champion India notched up a commanding 4-1 win over Canada in its opening Group A tie of the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens on Friday.

However, there was disappointment in store in the women’s section as India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in the opening Group A tie of the Uber Cup Finals.

After Lakshya’s spirited effort ended in an 18-21, 21-19, 21-10 loss to world No. 13 Victor Lai, World No. 4 Satwik and Chirag levelled the tie with a dominant 21-10, 21-11 win over Jonathan Bing Tsan Lai and Kevin Lee.

The 20-year-old Ayush, runner-up at the recent Asia Championships, then outwitted world No. 33 Brian Yang 21-13, 21-17 in 39 minutes to hand India a 2-1 lead.

The second doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and M R Arjun sealed the tie for India with a convincing 21-7 21-15 victory over Ty Alexander Lindeman and Nyl Yakura.

Kidambi Srikanth then outsmarted world No. 77 Joshua Nguyen 21-17, 21-12 in the inconsequential fifth match as India wrapped up the match 4-1 to be placed second in the table behind China.

China, 11-time winner and defending champion, beat Australia 5-0.

The top two teams from each of the four groups will qualify for the quarterfinals.

“Really happy with the way we played today… although we were down 0-1, we’re happy that we could get a point for the team and make it 1-0.

“We don’t want to keep so many expectations; we just want to enjoy as much as possible. It’s a long tournament; we have a three-day break now. There are new people who have come in; they are young, and everyone is in good spirits,” Satwik told reporters.

“We just want to have some good memories in 10 days because you don’t get time. It’s a team event; let’s have some fun. We’re taking one day at a time.”

In the Uber Cup, India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in their opening tie of Group A.

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu put India ahead with a tough 21-13, 18-21, 21-17 win over Denmark’s World No. 21 Line Christophersen.

World No. 3 Unnati Hooda then produced a late fightback and saved multiple match points before going down 12-21, 23-25 against world No. 26 Line Hojmark Kjaersfeldt, who won a silver medal at the 2026 European Badminton Championships early this month.

Tanvi Sharma went down to Amalie Schulz 21-19, 16-21, 16-21 in a 54-minute contest after taking the opening game as India trailed 1-2.

In their must-win rubber, the women’s doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Priya Konjengbam missed two match points before losing the decider to Amalie Cecilie Kudsk and Mette Werge 17-21, 21-11, 21-23 in a one-hour and 15-minute battle.

In the final inconsequential rubber, Tanisha Crasto and PV registered a win after Alexandra Boje and Christine Busch conceded the match in the second game.

The Indian pair had taken the first game 21-19 and were trailing 14-17 when the Danish duo retired after 36 minutes of play.

Lakshya vs Lai

It turned into another energy-sapping contest, reminiscent of the All England semifinal, with Lakshya and Lai locked in long, draining rallies.

Lakshya dictated early with sharp net play and smashes, doing enough to take the opening game despite Lai closing in from 14-18.

Lai hit back after the change of ends, racing to 7-2 and unsettling the Indian with clever deception and changes of pace to lead 11-7.

A 45-shot rally sparked a brief comeback as Lakshya drew level at 12-12, but Lai held firm in the closing stages, edging a tight finish after 19-19 with a net winner and a composed duel.

The decider was one-sided as Lai surged to 4-1 and 10-3, carrying the momentum to 11-5 at the break. Lakshya struggled to keep up as the Canadian mixed precision with power to move to 16-8 before sealing the match when the Indian went long, avenging his Birmingham loss.

India next faces Australia and China on Monday and Wednesday.

Sindhu vs Christophersen

Sindhu started slowly before cruising through the opening game but was pushed into a decider by Christophersen.

The Dane raised her intensity in the second, matching Sindhu stroke for stroke from 6-6 to 11-11 and edging ahead 16-15 before forcing the decider as errors crept into the Indian’s game.

Backed by chants from the Indian camp, Sindhu relied on her deception and angles to stay in the contest.

Christophersen mixed pace well early in the third to lead 4-3, but Sindhu responded with three quick points to go 9-8 up and held a narrow edge at the interval.

The Dane again moved ahead 15-12 but faltered with errors as Sindhu drew level at 15-15.

In a nervy finish, Sindhu held her composure, winning six of the last seven points to move 18-16 ahead before finishing with a body smash and a down-the-line winner to seal the match.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Thomas #Uber #Cup #Finals #India #men #beat #Canada #women #host #Denmark

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Lakshya Sen endured a tough loss, but Ayush Shetty and the doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty registered wins as 2022 champion India notched up a commanding 4-1 win over Canada in its opening Group A tie of the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens on Friday.

However, there was disappointment in store in the women’s section as India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in the opening Group A tie of the Uber Cup Finals.

After Lakshya’s spirited effort ended in an 18-21, 21-19, 21-10 loss to world No. 13 Victor Lai, World No. 4 Satwik and Chirag levelled the tie with a dominant 21-10, 21-11 win over Jonathan Bing Tsan Lai and Kevin Lee.

The 20-year-old Ayush, runner-up at the recent Asia Championships, then outwitted world No. 33 Brian Yang 21-13, 21-17 in 39 minutes to hand India a 2-1 lead.

The second doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and M R Arjun sealed the tie for India with a convincing 21-7 21-15 victory over Ty Alexander Lindeman and Nyl Yakura.

Kidambi Srikanth then outsmarted world No. 77 Joshua Nguyen 21-17, 21-12 in the inconsequential fifth match as India wrapped up the match 4-1 to be placed second in the table behind China.

China, 11-time winner and defending champion, beat Australia 5-0.

The top two teams from each of the four groups will qualify for the quarterfinals.

“Really happy with the way we played today… although we were down 0-1, we’re happy that we could get a point for the team and make it 1-0.

“We don’t want to keep so many expectations; we just want to enjoy as much as possible. It’s a long tournament; we have a three-day break now. There are new people who have come in; they are young, and everyone is in good spirits,” Satwik told reporters.

“We just want to have some good memories in 10 days because you don’t get time. It’s a team event; let’s have some fun. We’re taking one day at a time.”

In the Uber Cup, India lost 2-3 to host Denmark in their opening tie of Group A.

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu put India ahead with a tough 21-13, 18-21, 21-17 win over Denmark’s World No. 21 Line Christophersen.

World No. 3 Unnati Hooda then produced a late fightback and saved multiple match points before going down 12-21, 23-25 against world No. 26 Line Hojmark Kjaersfeldt, who won a silver medal at the 2026 European Badminton Championships early this month.

Tanvi Sharma went down to Amalie Schulz 21-19, 16-21, 16-21 in a 54-minute contest after taking the opening game as India trailed 1-2.

In their must-win rubber, the women’s doubles pair of Shruti Mishra and Priya Konjengbam missed two match points before losing the decider to Amalie Cecilie Kudsk and Mette Werge 17-21, 21-11, 21-23 in a one-hour and 15-minute battle.

In the final inconsequential rubber, Tanisha Crasto and PV registered a win after Alexandra Boje and Christine Busch conceded the match in the second game.

The Indian pair had taken the first game 21-19 and were trailing 14-17 when the Danish duo retired after 36 minutes of play.

Lakshya vs Lai

It turned into another energy-sapping contest, reminiscent of the All England semifinal, with Lakshya and Lai locked in long, draining rallies.

Lakshya dictated early with sharp net play and smashes, doing enough to take the opening game despite Lai closing in from 14-18.

Lai hit back after the change of ends, racing to 7-2 and unsettling the Indian with clever deception and changes of pace to lead 11-7.

A 45-shot rally sparked a brief comeback as Lakshya drew level at 12-12, but Lai held firm in the closing stages, edging a tight finish after 19-19 with a net winner and a composed duel.

The decider was one-sided as Lai surged to 4-1 and 10-3, carrying the momentum to 11-5 at the break. Lakshya struggled to keep up as the Canadian mixed precision with power to move to 16-8 before sealing the match when the Indian went long, avenging his Birmingham loss.

India next faces Australia and China on Monday and Wednesday.

Sindhu vs Christophersen

Sindhu started slowly before cruising through the opening game but was pushed into a decider by Christophersen.

The Dane raised her intensity in the second, matching Sindhu stroke for stroke from 6-6 to 11-11 and edging ahead 16-15 before forcing the decider as errors crept into the Indian’s game.

Backed by chants from the Indian camp, Sindhu relied on her deception and angles to stay in the contest.

Christophersen mixed pace well early in the third to lead 4-3, but Sindhu responded with three quick points to go 9-8 up and held a narrow edge at the interval.

The Dane again moved ahead 15-12 but faltered with errors as Sindhu drew level at 15-15.

In a nervy finish, Sindhu held her composure, winning six of the last seven points to move 18-16 ahead before finishing with a body smash and a down-the-line winner to seal the match.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

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Jim Furyk reported to Captain the United States at 2027 Ryder Cup <div id=""><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Jim Furyk is returning as U.S. Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 matches in Ireland as the Americans try to get back on track against a European team that has dominated the last three decades, The Associated Press has learned.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Furyk would be the fourth U.S. captain to get a second chance dating to 1979, considered the modern era of the Ryder Cup when continental Europe became part of it.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Three people aware of the selection process said the Ryder Cup committee chose Furyk once Tiger Woods removed himself from competition after his March 27 arrest on suspicion of DUI. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the PGA of America has not announced it.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Furyk declined to comment in a text message.</p></div> #Jim #Furyk #reported #Captain #United #States #Ryder #Cup

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England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt was tightlipped about selection ahead of her side’s opening match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Sri Lanka on Friday.

The tournament host has used a variety of players during its warm-up fixtures for the T20 World Cup and poses a wealth of riches in most departments with good depth in the spin bowling ranks and a bevy of quality batting options at the top of the order.

ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head in T20Is

Played: 12

England: 10

Sri Lanka: 2

What that means in terms of selection for the opening match of the T20 World Cup in Edgbaston on Friday remains to be seen and Sciver-Brunt was giving nothing away when asked about the make-up of her side for the clash with Sri Lanka.

The all-rounder has already confirmed she will play purely as a batter as she returns to full fitness following a calf concern, while the England skipper also suggested it would be unlikely that the side will use all three of its left-arm spin options – Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Tilly Corteen-Coleman – in the same XI.

But where that leaves all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson remains unanswered, while there is also plenty to ponder for the England captain at the top of the batting order with Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey and Sophia Dunkley all jostling for positions.

“We have a squad of 15 players, all of whom could be part of our XI,” Sciver-Brunt said on Thursday at the pre-match press conference.

“Selecting that final XI is hard and there’ll be some disappointed people because everybody so far in the summer has put their hand up with different performances at different times.

ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head record in Women’s T20 World Cups

Played: 2

England: 2

Sri Lanka: 0

“We know that we’ll need to call upon every one of those 15 people during this tournament. It’s not just about the XI. And I suppose that makes for some tough conversations and I’m sure some disappointed people.”

Sri Lanka looks relatively more settled after ending its warm-up run unbeaten with wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan.

Experienced skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be the lynchpin for Sri Lanka against England as the veteran gears up for her 10th appearance at the T20 World Cup having previously featured at every edition of the tournament since its inception in 2009

And Athapaththu enters the opening contest quietly confident her side can cause an upset, with the Sri Lanka captain embracing the tag of underdogs given all the pressure and focus will be on their opponents.

“The game is very important game for both the teams, but we are coming with underdog tag because we need to earn something,” Athapaththu said.

“But I know England have a little bit pressure because they’re playing in their home condition and first game and with a lot of expectation. 

“And most of the England people are coming here for cheering for them. 

“I feel some kind of pressure they have. So we don’t have that kind of pressure. 

“So we just need to play our fearless cricket. And if we can play our best cricket tomorrow, I know we can change and make — we can make history.”

SQUADS

England squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi

Published on Jun 12, 2026

#England #Sri #Lanka #Womens #T20 #World #Cup #Preview #Headtohead #record #squads #playing #news">England vs Sri Lanka, Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Preview, Head-to-head record, squads, playing XI news England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt was tightlipped about selection ahead of her side’s opening match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Sri Lanka on Friday.The tournament host has used a variety of players during its warm-up fixtures for the T20 World Cup and poses a wealth of riches in most departments with good depth in the spin bowling ranks and a bevy of quality batting options at the top of the order. ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head in T20Is Played: 12 England: 10 Sri Lanka: 2 What that means in terms of selection for the opening match of the T20 World Cup in Edgbaston on Friday remains to be seen and Sciver-Brunt was giving nothing away when asked about the make-up of her side for the clash with Sri Lanka.The all-rounder has already confirmed she will play purely as a batter as she returns to full fitness following a calf concern, while the England skipper also suggested it would be unlikely that the side will use all three of its left-arm spin options – Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Tilly Corteen-Coleman – in the same XI.But where that leaves all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson remains unanswered, while there is also plenty to ponder for the England captain at the top of the batting order with Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey and Sophia Dunkley all jostling for positions.“We have a squad of 15 players, all of whom could be part of our XI,” Sciver-Brunt said on Thursday at the pre-match press conference.“Selecting that final XI is hard and there’ll be some disappointed people because everybody so far in the summer has put their hand up with different performances at different times. ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head record in Women’s T20 World Cups Played: 2 England: 2 Sri Lanka: 0 “We know that we’ll need to call upon every one of those 15 people during this tournament. It’s not just about the XI. And I suppose that makes for some tough conversations and I’m sure some disappointed people.”Sri Lanka looks relatively more settled after ending its warm-up run unbeaten with wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan.Experienced skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be the lynchpin for Sri Lanka against England as the veteran gears up for her 10th appearance at the T20 World Cup having previously featured at every edition of the tournament since its inception in 2009And Athapaththu enters the opening contest quietly confident her side can cause an upset, with the Sri Lanka captain embracing the tag of underdogs given all the pressure and focus will be on their opponents.“The game is very important game for both the teams, but we are coming with underdog tag because we need to earn something,” Athapaththu said.“But I know England have a little bit pressure because they’re playing in their home condition and first game and with a lot of expectation. “And most of the England people are coming here for cheering for them. “I feel some kind of pressure they have. So we don’t have that kind of pressure. “So we just need to play our fearless cricket. And if we can play our best cricket tomorrow, I know we can change and make — we can make history.” SQUADS England squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi Published on Jun 12, 2026 #England #Sri #Lanka #Womens #T20 #World #Cup #Preview #Headtohead #record #squads #playing #news

Deadspin | GM pledges that star Cale Makar will finish his career with Avalanche May 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday. Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft. “Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.” A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury. He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games. Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season. A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25. The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators. Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022. “He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision. “He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #AvalancheMay 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday.

Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, $54 million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft.

“Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.”

A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury.

He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games.


Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season.

A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25.

The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals.

Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators.

Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022.

“He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision.

“He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #Avalanche">Deadspin | GM pledges that star Cale Makar will finish his career with Avalanche May 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday. Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft. “Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.” A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury. He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games. Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season. A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25. The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators. Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022. “He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision. “He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #Avalanche

The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup">Every referee selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup. #referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup

2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup">Every referee selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup

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