Merlin the duck becomes Mexico City’s cutest World Cup star
MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2026
Merlin, a calm and camera-friendly duck in a Mexico football jersey, has gone viral on Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, charming World Cup fans and tourists with his colourful style and gentle personality.
US keeps Iran World Cup travel curbs under review amid planned FIFA complaint
SUNDAY, JUNE 21, 2026
The US is keeping Iran’s World Cup travel arrangements under review while defending restrictions that require the squad to return to its Tijuana base after matches.
Japanese fans win hearts by cleaning Dallas Stadium after World Cup draw
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026
Japanese football fans have once again won admiration on the world stage after staying behind to clean Dallas Stadium following Japan’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Thai police arrest 629 in nationwide World Cup betting crackdown
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2026
Thai police have reported 596 cases and 629 suspects in a nationwide crackdown on gambling networks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with more than 2.15 billion baht found to have circulated through the networks.
Iran’s national football team has arrived in Los Angeles for its World Cup opener against New Zealand, amid a newly announced US-Iran peace deal and protests near the stadium.
World Cup 2026 champions to receive record 1.63 billion baht prize
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026
FIFA has announced a record US$655 million prize fund for the 2026 World Cup, with the champions set to receive US$50 million, or around 1.63 billion baht.