The vote took place Wednesday during a special owners meeting in Atlanta. The transaction, led by Silicon Valley venture capitalist Vinod Khosla, represents the highest price ever paid for an NFL franchise.

The deal was originally announced July 11 and required approval from NFL owners before it could proceed toward completion.

A record NFL franchise sale

At $9.612 billion, the Seahawks sale surpasses the previous NFL record of $6.05 billion, paid for the Washington Commanders in 2023.

It also becomes one of the largest sports franchise transactions in North American history. Reuters reported that the Seahawks price ranks behind the recent $10 billion sale of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers.

The transaction reflects the extraordinary increase in the value of major professional sports franchises, particularly NFL teams, whose revenues are supported by national media rights, sponsorships, ticket sales and league-wide commercial arrangements.

The Khosla family takes over a Super Bowl champion

The timing gives the incoming owners an unusual starting point.

The Seahawks are entering the 2026 season as the defending Super Bowl champions, having defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 in Super Bowl LX in February.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell congratulated the Khosla family following the vote and pointed to the rarity of acquiring a franchise immediately after it had won a Super Bowl.

For the new ownership group, the challenge will be to maintain the competitive success established under the previous ownership while managing one of the NFL’s most valuable franchises.

Vinod Khosla brings Silicon Valley background

Vinod Khosla is the founder of Khosla Ventures, a Silicon Valley venture-capital firm, and a co-founder of Sun Microsystems.

The Khosla family already had an NFL connection before agreeing to purchase Seattle. The family held a minority stake in the San Francisco 49ers, which must be relinquished as part of the Seahawks transaction because the family will become the controlling owner of Seattle.

Khosla is expected to play a prominent role in the ownership group, while his wife, Neeru Khosla, is expected to serve as the Seahawks’ controlling owner. Their son, Neal Khosla, is also expected to have a significant role in the franchise’s future operations.

End of the Allen family’s ownership

The transaction marks the end of nearly three decades of Allen family ownership.

Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million, helping ensure that the franchise remained in Seattle after years of uncertainty surrounding its future.

Allen died in 2018. Following his death, his sister Jody Allen oversaw the Seahawks on behalf of his estate.

The decision to sell the franchise is part of the broader process of managing Allen’s estate in accordance with his wishes.

The estate has also been selling other major assets, including the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers.

Seattle is expected to remain home

The ownership change is not expected to result in the Seahawks leaving Seattle.

The franchise has a lease at Lumen Field through 2032, with three additional 10-year options.

That provides the team with a long-term framework for remaining in the city where it has built one of the NFL’s strongest fan bases.

For Seattle, the ownership transition therefore represents a change in who controls the franchise rather than a change in its home market.

Why the sale matters

The transaction demonstrates how dramatically NFL franchise valuations have increased.

Paul Allen paid $194 million for the Seahawks in 1997. The Khosla family is now paying $9.612 billion for the same franchise.

That represents a roughly 49-fold increase in the team’s nominal purchase price over 29 years.

The increase reflects the growth of professional sports as a major entertainment and investment asset class, along with the scarcity of NFL franchises. There are only 32 teams in the league, making ownership opportunities exceptionally limited.

The Seahawks also enter the transaction with a championship, a large national audience and a modern stadium lease.

What happens next

The unanimous NFL vote removes the league’s major ownership-approval hurdle, but the transaction has not yet formally closed.

The Khosla family is expected to complete the remaining steps before officially taking control of the franchise. NFL.com reported that the sale is expected to be completed before the 2026 season gets underway.

The Seahawks are scheduled to begin their regular season at home against the New England Patriots on September 9.

If the transaction closes as expected, Seattle will begin the season under new ownership while defending the championship won under the Allen family’s stewardship.

Key Facts

• Team: Seattle Seahawks
• Buyer: Khosla family, led by Vinod Khosla
• Purchase price: $9.612 billion
• NFL approval: Unanimous
• Approval date: August 26, 2026
• Previous owner: Paul G. Allen Estate
• Paul Allen purchase price: $194 million in 1997
• Current controlling owner: Expected to be Neeru Khosla
• Team status: Defending Super Bowl champion
• Stadium: Lumen Field, Seattle
• Lease: Through 2032, with three 10-year options
• Transaction status: NFL-approved; final closing pending

Reporting Credit: Reuters, NFL and Seattle Seahawks, with Journos News independently synthesizing and presenting the verified ownership transaction and related franchise details.

Editorial status: DEVELOPING

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Engelbert said a task force made up of team presidents and general managers will discuss the issue at a previously scheduled meeting next week. The league also plans additional discussions and listening sessions for team leaders who want to participate.

The discussions follow public comments from Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham supporting the exclusion of transgender girls and women from girls’ and women’s sports. Her comments, published in an ESPN article last month, were followed by small demonstrations during the Fever’s recent road games in Seattle and Portland.

League prepares for further discussions

The WNBA has not announced any change to its transgender participation policy. Engelbert’s memo instead outlined plans for the league to continue examining the issue with team leadership and the players’ association.

Engelbert said the WNBA would approach the subject “thoughtfully” and “respectfully” while maintaining its longstanding organizational values.

She also emphasized that the league’s player eligibility rules are part of a collectively bargained agreement, giving the players’ association an important role in any potential changes.

The commissioner said maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring fair competition remain among the league’s highest priorities.

The WNBA’s current collective bargaining agreement states that only women are eligible to play in the league. It does not provide more detailed language specifically addressing gender identity or sex assigned at birth.

Players’ union emphasizes inclusion

The WNBA players’ association said Friday that diversity and inclusion remain important principles for the union while also objecting to players becoming targets in broader political disputes.

The union said it supports protecting women’s sports but opposes hate, abuse and the demonization of transgender people.

It said it would continue participating in discussions surrounding the issue as the league and its teams consider how eligibility rules should be applied.

Debate draws protests and player responses

The controversy has generated demonstrations connected to Fever games since Cunningham’s comments became public.

A lone protester attended Indiana’s home game against Las Vegas on Thursday, while members of two conservative organizations planned a rally supporting Cunningham before the Fever’s scheduled game in Chicago on Saturday.

Other figures within the WNBA have publicly expressed support for transgender athletes.

Seattle Storm center Stefanie Dolson and Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve have spoken in favor of transgender participation. Reeve said Aug. 1 that transgender children should be protected and described participation in sports as a human rights issue.

The issue has also drawn attention outside the WNBA. Former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White said Friday that they were eligible for the WNBA draft and identified as women. Their comments came as the league’s existing eligibility provisions remained under discussion.

No eligibility change announced

Engelbert said the league recognizes transgender participation as a complex issue and expects discussions involving teams and the players’ association to continue over the coming weeks and months.

Additional listening sessions will be available to team leaders who want to participate, she said.

The league has not announced a change to its current eligibility rules.

The next task-force meeting will give WNBA teams another opportunity to discuss the issue as the league and players’ association consider how collectively bargained eligibility provisions should apply to the continuing debate.

This report is based on reporting by The Associated Press.

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The latest example came during Argentina’s 3-1 extra-time quarterfinal victory over Switzerland. Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was sent off after a VAR review applied FIFA’s recently introduced “mistaken identity” protocol, renewing debate over how technology and revised laws are influencing matches at the tournament.

Embolo Dismissal Highlights Revised VAR Protocol

The key incident came shortly after Switzerland equalized in the second half.

Referee João Pinheiro initially cautioned Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes after a challenge involving Embolo. However, video review showed Embolo had simulated the foul before any contact occurred. Because Paredes had already received a yellow card, FIFA’s regulations allowed the video assistant referee to recommend an on-field review.

After reviewing the incident, Pinheiro ruled that Embolo had clearly simulated the foul. He issued Embolo a second yellow card and sent him off.

Under FIFA’s rules, VAR may intervene when the referee penalizes the wrong team for an offence that results in a yellow or red card being shown to the wrong player.

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin criticized the decision after the match, saying it changed the course of the game and contributed to his team’s elimination.

Germany Questions Stricter Foul Interpretations

Another major controversy emerged during Germany’s round-of-32 defeat to Paraguay.

Jonathan Tah thought he had scored a dramatic extra-time winner. However, VAR disallowed the goal after determining teammate Waldemar Anton had fouled goalkeeper Orlando Gill during the build-up.

Although replays showed only limited contact, FIFA referees committee chairman Pierluigi Collina said officials had been instructed to penalize players who block opponents without attempting to play the ball, particularly when goalkeepers are involved.

Germany eventually lost in a penalty shootout. According to The Associated Press, coach Julian Nagelsmann later resigned, with Jürgen Klopp expected to succeed him.

Connected Ball Technology Influences Croatia Exit

Connected ball technology also played a decisive role in Croatia’s elimination against Portugal.

Josko Gvardiol appeared to score a stoppage-time equalizer. However, VAR ruled the goal offside after sensors inside the match ball detected a slight touch from Croatia’s Igor Mantanovic during the attacking move.

According to FIFA, the ball’s embedded sensors collect data 500 times per second, allowing officials to detect even minimal contact that may not be visible on conventional video replay.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić criticized the growing reliance on technology, arguing that decisions like this reduce the enjoyment of the game.

Egypt and Norway Also Challenge VAR Decisions

Egypt also questioned VAR following its round-of-16 loss to Argentina.

Mostafa Zico had a second-half goal ruled out after officials reviewed an earlier foul on Argentina defender Lisandro Martínez. Argentina recovered from a two-goal deficit to win 3-2.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said his team had been treated unfairly. The Egyptian Football Association also questioned the consistency of the decisions that affected the match.

In response, Collina said FIFA’s Laws of the Game place no fixed limit on either the elapsed time or the distance between an earlier infringement and a subsequent goal during a VAR review.

Norway also disputed two decisions during its 2-1 quarterfinal defeat to England.

Players and coaches believed the ball had struck the overhead camera cable before Jude Bellingham’s equalizer, which would have required play to stop. However, FIFA said data from the connected ball sensor showed no contact with the cable.

Norway also had a goal disallowed after VAR ruled that Erling Haaland had fouled England’s Elliot Anderson before a corner kick. Under FIFA’s updated guidance, officials may review attacking fouls that occur before a corner when they directly influence the resulting play.

Technology Remains Central to Tournament Officiating

As the World Cup enters the semifinal stage, VAR protocols, connected ball technology and updated interpretations of the Laws of the Game continue to shape decisive moments alongside the performances of players on the field.

FIFA has defended both the technology and its refereeing framework. Meanwhile, several teams eliminated during the knockout rounds argue that the new systems have played a significant role in determining the outcome of their campaigns.

This report is based on reporting by The Associated Press.

Article Topics: FIFA World Cup | VAR | FIFA | Officiating | Connected Ball Technology | Sports Governance | Refereeing | Knockout Stage

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The departure from The Athletic came less than a week after photographs surfaced showing Russini with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort before the NFL owners meetings, a development first detailed by The Associated Press.

The timing matters because the Patriots remain one of the NFL’s most closely watched offseason teams under Vrabel, who is entering his second season in Foxborough. While no league disciplinary action has been announced, the incident has quickly become a sports-business and newsroom-governance story, highlighting the reputational stakes tied to insider reporting around coaching staffs and front offices.

According to Associated Press reporting, Russini said in her resignation letter that she stood by every story she had published and described the public discussion surrounding the photographs as “self-feeding speculation.” The Athletic, owned by The New York Times, said its review of her conduct would continue despite the resignation.

Newsroom Review Alters NFL Insider Landscape

The central sports angle is no longer the photographs themselves, but the sports business and governance implications for NFL media coverage.

Russini had been one of the most visible insiders covering coaching hires, executive movement, and league-wide roster developments since joining The Athletic in 2023 after a lengthy tenure at ESPN. Her exit leaves a significant vacancy in one of the most competitive information spaces in sports journalism: NFL sourcing during the draft, training camp, and coaching cycles.

For the Patriots, the story adds an unusual layer of offseason attention around Vrabel’s leadership period. While the club has not publicly linked the matter to football operations, any sustained off-field scrutiny around a head coach can affect organizational messaging heading into rookie minicamps and preseason preparation.

Offseason Attention Intensifies Around Patriots Reset

From a competition standpoint, the Patriots’ rebuilding phase already carried high stakes after another non-playoff season. Vrabel’s second year is expected to be judged heavily on roster development, AFC East positioning, and quarterback progress.

This controversy does not directly alter standings, but it changes the media environment surrounding one of the conference’s most important turnaround projects, potentially affecting how information flows around personnel decisions in the months leading to the regular season.

That is why this remains significant beyond celebrity-style coverage: the NFL’s insider economy depends on trust between reporters, executives, coaches, and audiences. Any perceived conflict can reshape sourcing credibility league-wide.

Forward Outlook Before Draft and Camp Coverage

The immediate forward implication is how major outlets recalibrate insider protocols ahead of the NFL draft cycle and preseason reporting surge.

League insiders and team-connected reporters now enter the most information-sensitive stretch of the calendar, where coaching relationships and executive access are central to breaking news. The Russini resignation is likely to sharpen internal standards reviews across sports desks covering the NFL’s competitive landscape.

For the Patriots, the next meaningful football checkpoint remains offseason program developments and roster decisions under Vrabel, where on-field progress will ultimately determine whether this episode remains a temporary distraction or part of a broader narrative around the franchise’s reset.

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The revocation was directed by King Charles III, with the decision formally published in the United Kingdom’s official public record, The Gazette.

Royal Honor Cancelled After Conviction

Hogg, 33, had been awarded the MBE in December 2023 for services to rugby union. However, the honor was “cancelled and annulled” after he pleaded guilty in 2024 to a charge involving abusive behavior toward his then-estranged wife.

Prosecutors said the conduct spanned approximately five years and included shouting and swearing, tracking her movements, and sending alarming text messages.

In January 2025, Hogg received a community payback order — a form of community service — along with one year of supervision as part of his sentence.

Rugby Career and International Record

Hogg was one of Scotland’s most recognizable rugby players during the 2010s and early 2020s. Playing primarily as a fullback, he earned 100 international appearances for Scotland national rugby union team before initially retiring from professional rugby in 2023.

He also served as team captain beginning in 2020.

Later that year, Hogg returned to professional competition after signing with French club Montpellier Hérault Rugby. His comeback was interrupted in April when he suffered a torn Achilles tendon.

Significance of the MBE

The MBE is part of the British honors system under the Order of the British Empire, recognizing significant contributions to society.

According to official guidance, it is the third-ranking honor within the order — below Commander (CBE) and Officer (OBE) — and is typically awarded for outstanding achievements or long-term service to a community or field.

Revocation of such honors is rare and generally occurs following criminal convictions or actions deemed incompatible with the standards of the award.

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As the men’s 2026 World Cup approaches in North America, anticipation is colliding with frustration. The latest ticket allocation phase has revealed prices that some supporters describe as prohibitive, particularly for those hoping to follow their national teams through the tournament.

With final tickets reportedly exceeding $4,000 and cumulative costs for a full tournament run approaching $7,000 or more, fan groups argue that access to football’s flagship event is becoming increasingly dependent on financial capacity rather than loyalty.

The controversy centers on how FIFA has structured its ticket sales for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For many supporters, the issue is not only the headline prices but the broader shift toward demand-based pricing and tiered allocations that may alter who fills stadiums next summer.

The debate reflects deeper tensions about commercialization in global sport — and about who the World Cup is ultimately for.

The Participating Member Association Allocation Explained

The current backlash follows FIFA’s distribution of tickets to national federations under what it calls the Participating Member Association (PMA) allocation.

This system allows each federation to offer tickets directly to verified supporter groups or loyalty program members. In theory, the mechanism ensures that core national-team fans gain access to matches involving their country.

In practice, however, the pricing attached to those allocations has drawn scrutiny.

According to statements from Football Supporters Europe (FSE), following a team from the group stage through to the final could cost at least $6,900 in ticket purchases alone. The group describes this as significantly higher than the equivalent pathway during the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Such comparisons are complicated by several factors. The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams instead of 32, increasing the total number of matches. It will also span three countries and vast geographic distances, potentially raising operational and logistical costs.

Still, the magnitude of the increase has surprised organized supporter groups.

FSE said it was “astonished” by what it called “extortionate” pricing for dedicated fans, urging FIFA to reconsider how tickets are distributed and priced.

A Shift Toward Demand-Based Pricing

For the first time in World Cup history, there will be no single flat price for all group-stage matches. Instead, ticket costs vary depending on perceived demand.

This model, already common in club football and other global sporting events, effectively means that fans of higher-profile teams may face higher prices even at the same tournament stage.

FIFA has stated in previous communications that ticketing will include multiple categories, with some group-stage seats starting around $60. However, those lower-priced tiers are not necessarily included in allocations to national associations, meaning loyal fans purchasing through federation channels may encounter higher minimum prices.

The governing body has previously emphasized its aim to maintain accessibility while balancing commercial sustainability. As of publication, it has not publicly addressed the latest criticisms from supporter organizations.

The adoption of demand-based pricing reflects broader trends in global sports economics. Major tournaments increasingly rely on dynamic pricing strategies, premium hospitality packages, and differentiated access models to maximize revenue.

While such systems can increase overall financial returns, they also reshape the demographic composition of stadium audiences.

The England Case Study

The pricing structure circulated by the English Football Association illustrates how the model works in practice.

For England’s opening group match, the lowest-priced ticket reportedly stands at $265. Should England reach the final, the cheapest seat would cost $4,185, with premium options reaching as high as $8,680.

Supporters are also required to commit financially months in advance, with payments expected by early 2026.

The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA), which represents fans in England and Wales, described the figures as “a step too far for many supporters.” The organization argues that escalating ticket costs risk excluding the very fans who create the atmosphere and identity associated with international tournaments.

Similar concerns have been voiced across Europe and elsewhere.

Beyond the Ticket Price

The headline ticket figures represent only part of the equation.

The 2026 World Cup will unfold across a vast geographic area, from Mexico City to Toronto to Los Angeles. Travel between host cities may require long-haul flights or cross-border transit, adding significant expense.

Accommodation costs in host cities are also likely to rise during the tournament period, as seen during previous global sporting events.

In effect, the total cost of attendance — including airfare, lodging, local transport, and meals — may far exceed the ticket price itself. For fans hoping to attend multiple matches, the financial commitment becomes even more substantial.

This broader cost structure contributes to concerns about accessibility. Even if some lower-tier tickets remain available in theory, the cumulative expense may place attendance beyond reach for many long-time supporters.

Commercial Pressures and Structural Change

The 2026 edition represents the largest World Cup ever staged. Expanding to 48 teams increases match inventory, operational complexity, and broadcast reach.

FIFA’s revenue model depends heavily on broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and commercial partnerships. Matchday income, while not the dominant revenue source compared with media rights, remains an important component.

Balancing affordability with commercial sustainability has long been a tension point for mega-events. Economists note that when demand significantly exceeds supply — as is typical for World Cup knockout matches — organizers face pressure to price tickets at levels reflecting market willingness to pay.

Dynamic pricing models are one way to capture that value. However, critics argue that global sporting events carry cultural and social functions that extend beyond pure market logic.

Supporters’ groups contend that the World Cup’s identity has historically been tied to accessible participation and visible, passionate fan bases traveling from around the world.

What This Means for the Tournament Atmosphere

One concern raised by fan organizations is the potential effect on stadium atmosphere.

Historically, World Cup crowds have included large contingents of traveling supporters who follow their teams across multiple matches. These fans often shape the soundscape and visual culture of the event.

If rising costs reduce the presence of such supporters, some argue that the tournament environment could shift toward a more corporate or hospitality-driven audience composition.

There is limited empirical data on how pricing alone affects stadium atmosphere. However, previous tournaments have shown that travel barriers and cost constraints influence which fans attend and in what numbers.

The 2026 tournament’s geographic scale may further shape this dynamic. The dispersed host-city model could make it more difficult for fans to follow teams across venues, potentially reducing continuous national supporter presence.

A Broader Debate About Access

The current controversy reflects a larger conversation about access to global sporting events.

Across football, ticket prices for elite club competitions have risen steadily over the past two decades. At the same time, governing bodies face growing commercial expectations from sponsors, broadcasters, and host cities.

This suggests that the World Cup pricing debate is not an isolated episode but part of an ongoing structural shift in the sport’s economic model.

Whether FIFA adjusts its approach in response to fan pressure remains unclear. The governing body has historically defended its pricing decisions as necessary for tournament sustainability and investment in global football development.

What is evident is that the 2026 World Cup will test the balance between commercial strategy and cultural tradition.

For many supporters, the issue is not simply about cost but about belonging — about whether loyalty accumulated over years of following a national team translates into meaningful access to its biggest moments.

As ticket sales continue and allocations are finalized, the conversation about who gets to experience the World Cup in person is likely to remain central to the tournament narrative.

Source: CNN – Why soccer fans are ‘astonished’ by the ‘extortionate’ ticket prices for next year’s World Cup

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Emmanuel Clase Allegedly Manipulated Pitches

Emmanuel Clase, the Guardians’ closer, is named in multiple instances where prosecutors say he altered pitch placement and speed to meet gambling predictions.

• May 19, 2023: Clase allegedly threw a 98.5 mph cutter low and inside to Starling Marte of the Mets. This matched a $27,000 bet predicting a pitch above 94.95 mph. Marte flied out, but the Mets rallied to win 10-9. Clase took the loss.

• June 3, 2023: Prosecutors say Clase threw an 89.4 mph slider to Ryan Jeffers that hit catcher Mike Zunino’s shoulder. This aligned with a $38,000 bet predicting a ball or hit-by-pitch under 94.95 mph. Clase later secured the save in a 4-2 win.

• June 7, 2023: Clase reportedly threw a 91.4 mph slider to Jarren Duran at the start of the ninth inning. The $58,000 bet predicted a ball or hit-by-pitch under 94.95 mph. Duran walked, but Clase finished the save in a 5-3 victory.

Clase is also cited in several 2025 games where prosecutors say he used slower sliders or cutters to meet bet conditions. These included outings against Kansas City, Philadelphia, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, and Los Angeles, involving bets ranging from $3,500 to $15,000. The indictment notes one instance where Clase exchanged GIFs with a bettor after a threatening message.

Luis Ortiz Allegedly Involved

Luis Ortiz is cited in two games in June 2025:

• June 15, 2025: Ortiz allegedly threw an 86.7 mph slider to Randy Arozarena, matching a $13,000 bet predicting a ball. Arozarena walked and later scored in a five-run inning.

• June 27, 2025: Ortiz reportedly threw an 86.7 mph slider to Pedro Pagés, linked to an $18,000 bet. Pagés reached the backstop, homered on the next pitch, and the Cardinals won 5-0.

Scope and Legal Implications

The indictment alleges a clear pattern of manipulating pitches to favor gamblers. If convicted, Clase and Ortiz could face serious criminal penalties. MLB rules prohibit players from influencing games for gambling purposes. The league may conduct its own review, potentially resulting in suspensions or fines.

Sports Betting in Major League Baseball

Sports betting has expanded in the U.S. since the Supreme Court removed federal restrictions in 2018. MLB has partnerships with regulators to prevent betting-related corruption. Players must report any attempts to influence games.

This case highlights the challenge of maintaining integrity amid the growth of legal betting. Prop bets, which rely on pitch speed, placement, or specific in-game results, are particularly vulnerable to manipulation.

Next Steps

Clase and Ortiz are expected to appear in federal court for arraignment. Prosecutors will use digital messages and financial records as evidence. MLB officials emphasized the need for transparency and strict adherence to conduct rules to protect the sport’s integrity.

Fans, teams, and league officials are watching closely, as the case could shape how MLB monitors gambling and player conduct in the future.

Source: AP News – A closer look at the pitches by Clase, Ortiz cited in sporting gambling indictment

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According to NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy, Tagliabue’s family informed the league that he died of heart failure. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease in recent years.

Tagliabue led the NFL from 1989 to 2006, succeeding Pete Rozelle and setting the stage for unprecedented financial expansion, record television deals, and decades of labor peace. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020 as part of the NFL’s centennial class.

A Steward of the Modern NFL

Current Commissioner Roger Goodell, who succeeded Tagliabue in 2006, paid tribute to his predecessor, calling him “the ultimate steward of the game.”

“Tall in stature, humble in presence, and decisive in his loyalty to the NFL,” Goodell said in a statement. “I am forever grateful and proud to have Paul as my friend and mentor. He helped shape me as an executive, but also as a man, husband, and father.”

Moments of silence were held before several NFL games on Sunday in honor of Tagliabue and Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Marshawn Kneeland, who died last week.

During his 17-year tenure, Tagliabue oversaw the construction of numerous state-of-the-art stadiums, the negotiation of billion-dollar television contracts, and a period of remarkable labor stability — with no strikes or lockouts.

Expansion, Labor Peace, and the Rooney Rule

Under Tagliabue’s leadership, the NFL expanded to new markets while maintaining competitive balance. The league saw the return of professional football to Cleveland after the Browns’ relocation and the eventual restoration of two teams to Los Angeles after their departure in the 1990s.

He also introduced one of the league’s most influential diversity measures: the “Rooney Rule.” The policy required every team with a head coaching vacancy to interview at least one minority candidate — a groundbreaking step later expanded to include senior front-office and league executive positions.

When Tagliabue took office in 1989, the league had only one Black head coach in the modern era. By the time he stepped down, seven minority coaches had led NFL teams.

He also implemented what was widely considered the strongest substance-abuse policy in major professional sports, reflecting his belief in integrity and accountability both on and off the field.

Decisive Leadership in Crisis

Tagliabue’s tenure was defined by his calm, measured leadership — never more so than after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He made the historic decision to cancel all NFL games scheduled for the following weekend, prioritizing national mourning and safety.

It was one of the few times he was publicly compared favorably to Rozelle, who had controversially allowed games to proceed after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963 — a decision Rozelle later called one of his greatest regrets.

Controversy Over Concussions

Despite his many achievements, Tagliabue’s legacy has been complicated by criticism that he failed to take stronger action on concussions — an issue that has continued to haunt the league.

In a 2017 interview, he apologized for comments he made in 1994 dismissing concussions as a “pack-journalism issue.” Tagliabue later acknowledged the remarks were misguided and that he lacked sufficient data at the time.

“My language was intemperate, and it led to a serious misunderstanding,” he said. “There was a need for better data and more reliable information about concussions.”

Though concussion research lagged during his tenure, Tagliabue’s focus on labor relations and revenue growth left an enduring imprint on the modern NFL.

A Legacy of Cooperation and Respect

One of Tagliabue’s earliest and most consequential decisions was to build a direct working relationship with NFL Players Association Executive Director Gene Upshaw.

Unlike his predecessors, Tagliabue personally led all labor negotiations, sidelining the management council that had long handled talks with the union. The move was instrumental in achieving long-term labor stability.

“Paul had insisted that final control over labor and business matters rest in the commissioner’s office,” said Joe Browne, a longtime NFL executive who worked closely with both Rozelle and Tagliabue. “That was a large step forward toward the tremendous rebound and expansion we had in the 1990s and beyond.”

Upshaw often described their approach as one based on compromise and mutual respect. Though some union members criticized the NFLPA for being too accommodating, the period of peace enabled unprecedented league-wide prosperity.

From the Courtroom to the Commissioner’s Office

Before joining the NFL, Tagliabue was a respected Washington attorney at Covington & Burling, where he managed the league’s legal affairs. A 1962 Georgetown University graduate and basketball team captain, Tagliabue earned his law degree from New York University and later served in the U.S. Defense Department.

At 6 feet 5 inches tall, he was a commanding presence, but colleagues often described him as private and analytical rather than charismatic — a contrast to the media-savvy Rozelle.

He was selected commissioner in 1989 after a contentious selection process that divided the league’s owners. Tagliabue ultimately united both factions and presided over an era of expansion, stadium construction, and lucrative media partnerships that transformed the NFL into a global sports powerhouse.

A Personal Touch Amid Tragedy

Those who worked closely with Tagliabue recall his quiet compassion, particularly in times of loss. Following the September 11 attacks, he personally attended Mass with Ed Tighe, an NFL lawyer whose wife was killed in the tragedy — a gesture that left a lasting impression across the league.

Hall of Fame player and coach Art Shell, the first modern-era Black head coach, remembered Tagliabue as a pragmatic and forward-thinking leader.

“His philosophy on almost every issue was, ‘If it’s broke, fix it — and if it’s not broke, fix it anyway,’” Shell said. “He never lost sight of his responsibility to do what was right for the game.”

A Lasting Influence on the NFL

Paul John Tagliabue was born on November 24, 1940, in Jersey City, New Jersey. His leadership helped steer professional football through a period of global recognition, economic dominance, and structural reform.

While debates about his handling of player safety continue, few dispute that Tagliabue’s vision and diplomacy laid the groundwork for the NFL’s rise into one of the world’s most successful sports enterprises.

He is survived by his family, who have asked for privacy as tributes pour in from across the sports community.

Source: AP News – Paul Tagliabue, NFL commissioner of 17 years who led an era of riches and expansion, dies at 84

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Massive Federal Takedown Targets Gambling Network

Federal prosecutors in New York announced the arrest of over 30 individuals connected to two sprawling gambling operations, linking high-profile NBA figures to illegal activity. Chauncey Billups faces charges for participating in a conspiracy to fix high-stakes poker games tied to organized crime, while Terry Rozier is accused of exploiting private player information to place advantageous NBA bets.

Joseph Nocella, the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, described the case as “one of the most brazen sports corruption schemes since online sports betting became widely legalized in the United States.” Both Billups and Rozier face charges of money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy. Former NBA assistant coach and player Damon Jones is also charged in connection with both schemes.

Scope of Alleged Fraud and NBA Implications

Authorities describe the fraud as involving tens of millions of dollars over multiple years. FBI Director Kash Patel noted the complexity and scale of the operations, which exploited both sports betting platforms and organized poker games.

Despite these allegations, the financial impact pales compared to the athletes’ professional earnings. Billups, a 2024 Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, earned approximately $106 million over his 17-year career, while Rozier accumulated around $160 million playing for Boston, Miami, and Charlotte.

The NBA has placed both men on leave and is cooperating with federal authorities. In a statement, the league emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game.

Legal Proceedings and Defense Statements

Following their arrests, Rozier appeared in federal court in Orlando, Florida, while Billups appeared in Portland, Oregon. Both were released under specific conditions.

Billups’ attorney, Chris Heywood, denied the allegations, calling his client a “man of integrity” who would not jeopardize his legacy or freedom. Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, stated that his client “is not a gambler” and criticized the manner of his arrest, suggesting officials were seeking public attention rather than following standard procedures.

Roughly 20 other defendants appeared in federal court in Brooklyn, with many accused of violent crimes or having extensive criminal records. Those individuals were largely detained pending trial.

Mafia-Linked Poker Operations

The poker scheme allegedly involved rigged games where unsuspecting players competed against former NBA professionals such as Billups and Jones. Investigators allege the use of advanced cheating tools, including altered card-shuffling machines, hidden cameras, special eyewear, and X-ray-equipped tables.

New York crime families, including the Gambino, Genovese, and Bonanno organizations, reportedly received a share of the proceeds. Court filings suggest these groups also employed violence, extortion, and robbery to maintain control over the operation and ensure repayment of debts.

NBA Betting Scheme Details

In a separate sports betting scheme, Rozier and other defendants allegedly shared confidential information about NBA players’ health and playing intentions. This information was then used to place bets on player-specific statistics, or prop bets.

One cited example involves Rozier during a 2023 Charlotte Hornets game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Authorities allege Rozier informed associates of a planned early exit due to a supposed injury, allowing bettors to profit from his limited playtime. Social media posts from the night indicated bettors suspected irregularities regarding prop bets for his performance.

Other Players Named in Indictments

While several NBA players were referenced in the investigation, including LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Damian Lillard, court filings clarify these individuals are not accused of wrongdoing. The information shared involved their injury status and game availability, drawn from publicly accessible reports.

The indictments show defendants used this information to influence betting outcomes in games involving the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers during 2023 and 2024. The NBA had previously investigated Rozier for related conduct.

Source: AP News – NBA head coach and player charged in sprawling sports betting and Mafia-backed poker schemes

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Naroditsky, 29, a popular player and coach known for his engaging online chess streams and educational content, died unexpectedly earlier this week, his family announced through the Charlotte Chess Center. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

FIDE’s move comes after Kramnik allegedly led a months-long campaign accusing Naroditsky of cheating in online games, claims that the American grandmaster consistently denied.

A Growing Controversy in the Chess World

Kramnik, who held the world chess title from 2000 to 2007, publicly questioned the integrity of multiple top players in recent years. His repeated accusations against Naroditsky drew widespread criticism from the chess community, including top professionals and governing officials who described the comments as reckless.

During what would become his final Twitch broadcast last week, Naroditsky spoke candidly about the psychological toll of the accusations.

“The problem is, ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst of intentions,” Naroditsky said. “The issue is just the lingering effect of it.”

His remarks, later shared widely online, shed light on the growing issue of mental health and harassment in competitive online chess — where public accusations of cheating can severely damage reputations and morale.

Kramnik Responds, Denies Wrongdoing

In a statement posted Thursday on X (formerly Twitter), Kramnik denied engaging in harassment and expressed condolences for Naroditsky’s death.

“I hope the real truth about the circumstances and cause of this tragedy will be revealed, despite all attempts to hide it,” he wrote, while dismissing suggestions of personal wrongdoing.

The tone of the post sparked additional criticism from players and fans, many of whom accused Kramnik of deflecting responsibility.

FIDE Confirms Ethics Investigation

Speaking to CNN’s Jake Tapper on The Lead, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said the federation’s Fair Play Commission had already reviewed Kramnik’s comments and forwarded the case to the Ethics and Disciplinary Commission for an independent investigation.

“We thought that Vladimir’s accusations were reckless and ungrounded,” Dvorkovich said. “We do believe that any kind of bullying or harassment is intolerable — in sports, in chess in particular.”

He added that “any kind of sanction is possible” depending on the findings, emphasizing that FIDE is treating the matter with “full seriousness and transparency.”

In a separate statement, FIDE underscored that online conduct by elite players must uphold standards of integrity and respect, warning that public accusations can quickly escalate into harassment.

“When this happens, discussions can turn into bullying and personal attacks — a particularly serious concern in today’s environment,” the statement read.

A Community in Mourning

The global chess community has reacted with shock to Naroditsky’s death, with tributes pouring in from players, fans, and students around the world. Widely regarded as one of the most talented American grandmasters of his generation, Naroditsky combined elite-level play with a gift for teaching, inspiring millions through YouTube and Twitch.

His passing has reignited calls for stronger mental health support systems in competitive chess, as players face increasing scrutiny and online hostility in an era of digital competition and real-time commentary.

Chess streamer Levy Rozman, known as GothamChess, wrote that Naroditsky “brought warmth and decency to a community that can often be harsh,” while other players demanded that governing bodies take tougher action against harassment within the sport.

Kramnik’s Legacy and the Ethics Debate

Vladimir Kramnik, 49, remains one of the most respected figures in chess history, celebrated for dethroning Garry Kasparov in 2000 and advancing positional play theory. However, his post-retirement years have been marked by controversy, particularly his public campaign against alleged online cheating, which has often targeted high-profile grandmasters.

FIDE’s decision to launch a formal ethics investigation represents one of the most serious steps yet taken against a former world champion. It also highlights the growing challenge of managing digital-era disputes, where online accusations can quickly spiral into personal attacks with real-world consequences.

Dvorkovich noted that FIDE’s disciplinary process will be independent and transparent, reiterating that “respect and fairness are fundamental values of chess.”

Looking Ahead

While the outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, the incident has cast a shadow over the professional chess scene and prompted difficult questions about accountability, mental health, and the culture of online discourse among top players.

Naroditsky’s family has requested privacy as the chess community continues to mourn the young grandmaster’s loss. FIDE has pledged to review its social conduct guidelines and expand mental health initiatives for professional players and online competitors.

Source: CNN – Former world chess champion Vladimir Kramnik investigated for bullying following death of grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky

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