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June 2026
leaf out of his book
Meet the college dropout who slept in tents and hitchhiked his way to play at the World Cup
Ahead of co-hosts Canada’s opening game tonight, Jamie Lowery tells The 42 about his remarkable journey to play at Mexico 86.
Glorious
World Cup opens with a story of angels and demons as Mexico put on a show
Hosts claim 2-0 win over South Africa in front of a delirious Azteca with three red cards shared for good measure.
Gianni Infantino'We could make $30bn': Fifa's president rounds on World Cup critics on eve of tournament (again)
time for action
This World Cup needs the magic of the Azteca to act as catalyst for its salvation
The 2026 edition gets underway when co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa in Group A.
Centre stage
Fifa president says fans should be happy to watch World Cup for free on TV - 'We could make $30bn'
Gianni Infantino delivers another self-serving address on eve of tournament getting underway.
on the ground
Mexico City gripped by protests and blockades with World Cup about to get underway
In a city where it feels like the walls are closing in, Fifa president Gianni Infantino takes centre stage acting like a man without a care in the world.
Getting closer
A love letter and a lament to football on the eve of the World Cup
For most of us, the game is a daily, weekly, ritual that blends into one so as to feel eternal.
all for one and one for all
Meet the World Cup Freemasons: 'We are a group based on trust. Profiteering is not allowed'
The 42 speaks to some of the fans from around the globe who are in football’s most coveted circle.
2026 world cup
Meet the World Cup Freemasons: 'We are a group based on trust. Profiteering is not allowed'
The 42 speaks to some of the fans from around the globe who are in football’s most coveted circle.
bring it on
Seven days to go – here are seven World Cup storylines to look out for
From wishful thinking with presidential executive orders, to the rule changes that will keep players honest. Well, sort of.
May
May 2026
Soccer
Owen Elding commits to Ireland despite England interest: 'It'd be a dream to put on a green shirt'
Double act
Donald Trump, Gianni Infantino and the Greed is Good World Cup
Ahead of the opening game on 11 June in Mexico City, controversies range from human rights abuses to price gouging.
Show of faith
16-year-old Josh O'Dwyer to join senior Ireland squad alongside Kian Leavy of St Pat's
League of Ireland
Shamrock Rovers show brilliance and resolve to send St Pat's packing
Graham Burke scores stunning goal to reinforce the Hoops’ place at the top of the table.
Job Done
Bittersweet night for Ireland with red cards, debuts and protests during win over Qatar
Nathan Collins scores the only goal of the game in 1-0 victory at Aviva Stadium.
Preview
Ireland's Qatar friendly a sideshow in a week dominated by talk of Israel boycott
Everything could have felt so different for Heimir Hallgrímsson and his players had World Cup qualification been secured.
Stance
FAI's General Assembly preparing motion to boycott Israel games
In a letter seen by The 42, members are asked to compel the governing body to convene an Extraordinary General Meeting.
Republic Of Ireland
'We are not the bad guys': Ireland boss urges support for team rather than protest Israel games
under the radar
Fragmented friendly window provides challenges and opportunities for Ireland
Boss Heimir Hallgrímsson has shown flexibility while likes of Jaden Umeh are set to stake their claim.
Stance
'If individuals wanted to take a stand, we are not going to stand against them' – Ireland captain on Israel protests
Staying Put
FAI set to confirm new deals for Republic of Ireland coaches John O'Shea and Paddy McCarthy
THE BEAT
Isolated giddiness and coordinated social media plans combine for concern in youth football
Hope
'I keep seeing beautiful things and I can't help but wonder if I will have an opportunity to see them again'
