Sports

Meet the 2026 USMNT World Cup roster: All the players on Pochettino’s squad

Published

4 weeks ago

27 May 2026

The time is now. Mauricio Pochettino has named his 26-man squad to represent the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As a host nation alongside Mexico and Canada, there will be immense pressure on the Red, White, and Blue, but that also extends to Pochettino as the Argentine manager has made tough calls to set the roster. Diego Luna was someone who was expected to be in the squad, but he misses out while Gio Reyna and Alex Zendejas are in. Meanwhile, Tyler Adams is the only true defensive midfielder due to the absence of Tanner Tessmann and Aidan Morris. And a whopping 10 defenders were included.

Let’s take a look at the 26 for 26 and what to know about them:

Position	Player	Club	Caps / Goals	Hometown
Goalkeeper	Chris Brady	Chicago Fire	0 / 0	Naperville, Ill.
Goalkeeper	Matt Freese	New York City FC	14 / 0	Wayne, Pa.
Goalkeeper	Matt Turner	New England Revolution	53 / 0	Park Ridge, N.J.
Defender	Max Arfsten	Columbus Crew	18 / 1	Fresno, Calif.
Defender	Sergiño Dest	PSV Eindhoven	37 / 2	Almere, Netherlands
Defender	Alex Freeman	Villarreal	15 / 2	Plantation, Fla.
Defender	Mark McKenzie	Toulouse	27 / 0	Bear, Del.
Defender	Tim Ream	Charlotte FC	80 / 1	St. Louis, Mo.
Defender	Chris Richards	Crystal Palace	36 / 3	Birmingham, Ala.
Defender	Antonee Robinson	Fulham	52 / 4	Liverpool, England
Defender	Miles Robinson	FC Cincinnati	38 / 3	Arlington, Mass.
Defender	Joe Scally	Borussia Mönchengladbach	24 / 0	Lake Grove, N.Y.
Defender	Auston Trusty	Celtic	6 / 0	Media, Pa.
Midfielder	Tyler Adams	AFC Bournemouth	52 / 2	Wappingers Falls, N.Y.
Midfielder	Sebastian Berhalter	Vancouver Whitecaps	11 / 1	Columbus, Ohio
Midfielder	Weston McKennie	Juventus	64 / 12	Little Elm, Texas
Midfielder	Gio Reyna	Borussia Mönchengladbach	36 / 9	Bedford, N.Y.
Midfielder	Cristian Roldan	Seattle Sounders	45 / 0	Pico Rivera, Calif.
Midfielder	Malik Tillman	Bayer Leverkusen	28 / 3	Fürth, Germany
Forward	Brenden Aaronson	Leeds United	57 / 9	Medford, N.J.
Forward	Folarin Balogun	Monaco	25 / 8	London, England
Forward	Ricardo Pepi	PSV Eindhoven	35 / 13	El Paso, Texas
Forward	Christian Pulisic	AC Milan	84 / 32	Hershey, Pa.
Forward	Tim Weah	Olympique Marseille	49 / 7	Rosedale, N.Y.
Forward	Haji Wright	Coventry City	20 / 7	Los Angeles, Calif.
Forward	Alejandro Zendejas	Club América	13 / 2	El Paso, Texas

Goalkeepers

Matt Freese

USA • GK • #24

ClubNew York City FC

Age27

BirthplaceWayne, Pa.

Caps14

Already a USMNT cult hero after a penalty kick shootout against Costa Rica in the Concacaf Gold Cup, Matt Freese is ready to write his next chapter with the squad. That chapter will follow the Harvard thesis he’s already written on penalty kicks. Freese has put that into action during his career, where even with his club, New York City FC, he has been excellent in those scenarios. “Matty Ice” may be a nickname more akin to NFL quarterback Matt Ryan, but for Freese on penalties, he’s been quite deserving of that, including in open play, where he has a strong hold on his box. Freese may not have debuted for the USMNT until kicking off the Gold Cup in June of 2025, but he’s taken that chance and run with it, earning 14 caps since and putting himself in a strong position to be the number one in net for a World Cup on home soil.

Matt Turner

USA • GK • #1

ClubNew England Revolution

Age31

BirthplacePark Ridge, N.J.

Caps53

Matt Turner returns to the World Cup, this time as Freese’s understudy after serving as the starter in 2022. His origin story is unusual – he did not get serious about soccer until his late teens, when his peers were already on professional pathways, and went unselected in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. After a few trying years in Europe, he is now back at the club where he broke out, the New England Revolution, and might just be the most in-form goalkeeper on the USMNT. In his last outing in U.S. colors, though, a chance to overtake Freese came and went – he started the USMNT’s 5-2 loss to Belgium in March, things not going to plan even if it would be hard to lay the blame at his feet. “I’ve stood in front of here and criticized myself many times but tonight, I felt like I did have some really good moments,” he said that evening. “I was able to make some good saves. I just wish I could have one or two of ’em back because I don’t think the scoreline really reflected the balance and flow of the game.”

Chris Brady

USA • G • #25

ClubChicago Fire

Age22

BirthplaceNaperville, Ill.

Caps0

Pochettino’s tenure has been marked by the opportunities he has handed to fringe talent when more experienced players were unavailable, Chris Brady amongst the bunch. The Chicago Fire academy product first joined the group for last summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup and has been a frequent invite since, making the step up after representing the U.S. at youth levels. The 22-year-old may be the only uncapped player on the roster, but his inclusion might be with an eye towards the future, the focus likely to shift to some of the national team’s up-and-coming goalkeepers once the World Cup is over.

Defenders

Sergino Dest

USA • D • #2

ClubPSV

Age25

BirthplaceAlmere, Netherlands

Caps37

Goals2

Consider Sergino Dest one of the missing pieces for a full-strength version of the USMNT. He has only played four games for the national team since Pochettino took charge in the fall of 2024, while sidelined with a series of injuries, but returned to play in May with PSV and should be ready to go when the World Cup begins. The Netherlands-born outside back is destined to play a key role for the U.S. team — he boasts an impressive pedigree, coming up through the prestigious Ajax academy in Amsterdam and later playing for Barcelona. Teammate Chris Richards once described him as “probably the most attacking fullback in the world,” making him a real asset for an attack-minded USMNT that will benefit from two very talented outside backs in Dest and Antonee Robinson. Dest is also known for his flair and might be good for one or two highlight-reel worthy moments this summer — watch out for a nutmeg!

Antonee Robinson

USA • D • #5

ClubFulham

Age28

BirthplaceMilton Keynes, England

Caps52

Goals4

Antonee Robinson’s absence has been felt. The England-born outside back is one of the Premier League’s best, but a long-term knee injury meant he went almost 18 months without playing for the national team, though he finally made his long-awaited return for the USMNT’s friendlies in March. He was a sight for sore eyes even amidst defeats to Belgium and Portugal, his dynamic attack-minded play on the flank offering a stark reminder of why he won U.S. Soccer’s male player of the year award after a successful stretch of matches in 2024. It was a relief for the player, too, after undergoing knee surgery last summer and being pestered by the injury months later. “There was no sort of certainty on my end that I was going to be fit and available and make it [to the World Cup] because it just seemed like there was kind of no light at the end of the tunnel but thankfully, I feel like I’m past that point now,” he said in March. “It’s really exciting to be back with the boys.” Just don’t call him Antonee – he has gone by “Jedi” since he was a child, even in professional settings, earning the nickname thanks to his affinity for the “Star Wars” films.

Tim Ream

USA • D • #13

ClubCharlotte FC

Age 38

BirthplaceSt. Louis, Mo.

Caps80

Goals1

The USMNT’s elder statesman, 38-year-old Tim Ream, has been a mainstay as he watched his teammates come of age from the last World Cup to this one. Ream presents himself as a conduit for the coaching staff to his fellow players and a calmly honest spokesman of sorts for all. His decade of work in England has earned him the respect of his teammates. “I’ve worked under a lot of different managers, a lot of different systems and what they’re doing here is not too dissimilar to what I did at Fulham for many, many years under Marco [Silva],” he noted after the U.S.’ 1-1 draw with Ecuador in October, reflecting on Pochettino’s switch to a back three that he later described as a “stroke of genius” from a tactical perspective. “For me, understanding and seeing the game from a different perspective, being a center back and being older, it doesn’t take long for me to grasp new ideas and tactics.” Ream may have another problem on his hands entirely – Father Time has been unkind to him in recent months, including in March’s defeat to Belgium, raising questions about whether or not the USMNT’s most consistent fixture will actually be in the lineup once the World Cup begins.

Chris Richards

USA • D • #3

ClubCrystal Palace

Age26

BirthplaceBirmingham, Ala.

Caps36

Goals3

A handful of players have wrestled for the title of the U.S.’ most important player at this World Cup, but as this summer’s tournament finally arrives, the crown rests firmly on Chris Richards’ head. The center back has become a steady force at center back, exuding not just competence but confidence at the same time — and a delightful sense of humor. He described center backs as “a little sick in the head” for their willingness to do soccer’s scut work, making him a professional and affable leader for the USMNT. He keeps the vibes high off the field, too — he was part of a group of players who recently treated their England-born and bred teammates to Chili’s, intent on providing them with an authentically American experience. “The Triple Dipper you have to get, but then I think it’s the endless chips and salsa, but then also there’s sports on TV, and also the chocolate molten lava cake, and it’s just like you’re sitting there and you’re looking at the ground, the tile,” he recalled. “You’re like, this is beautiful. This is nostalgia. This is really America.”

Mark McKenzie

USA • D • #22

ClubToulouse

Age27

BirthplaceBronx, N.Y.

Caps27

Goals0

Moving to Toulouse in France in 2024 from Genk, Mark McKenzie’s game has taken a massive step forward as he earned regular playing time in a top league. One of many players in this roster with MLS roots, coming from the Philadelphia Union system, McKenzie has yet to truly break out as a member of the national team, but making a World Cup roster for the first time in his career is a significant step. Someone who has also talked about the art of defending with Pochettino, it’s clear that McKenzie is doing what he can to soak up experience under the Argentine.

Miles Robinson

USA • D • #12

ClubFC Cincinnati

Age29

BirthplaceArlington, Mass.

Caps38

Goals3

The heart of the FC Cincinnati defense, Miles Robinson, is someone who consistently enters when Pochettino wants to close out a game. When you have 26 players available, not every single one needs to be a starter in the squad, and that’s where knowing your role is a moment to shine. Given the lack of depth at center back and Pochettino wanting to employ a back three during the World Cup, knowing that he’ll get consistency from players is important.

Alexander Freeman

USA • D • #16

ClubVillareal

Age21

BirthplaceBaltimore, Md.

Caps15

Goals2

There may not be a player who has had a faster rise on the USMNT in the last year than Alex Freeman. Just over a year ago, he was making his first start for Orlando City SC, and now he has qualified for Champions League soccer with Villarreal and is on the way to his first World Cup. Freeman has come a long way since his debut facing Turkiye, where the challenge of defending against Kenan Yildiz was a moment that showed he belongs and can compete at this level. Freeman has improved at every challenge that has come his way, and when it comes to the World Cup, that will be no different. Closing out the season, being able to make regular appearances for Villarreal showed his improvement in LaLiga and at the World Cup, he can rise to yet another challenge. Not only will he be a backup at wing back, but if push comes to shove, the 21-year-old defender may also need to be used as a third center back, showcasing his versatility.

Max Arfsten

USA • F • #18

ClubColumbus Crew

Age25

BirthplaceFresno, Calif.

Caps18

Goals1

From the Olympics to the World Cup, the Columbus Crew man has shown the path that youth players can follow if they’re put into the right situations. Able to come in as a wing back or further up the pitch as a winger, if Pochettino needs a change of pace. The USMNT are quite deep at wing back, but each one in the team can bring something different to the table.

Auston Trusty

USA • D • #6

ClubCeltic

Age27

BirthplaceMedia, Pa.

Caps6

Goals0

Auston Trusty has had a wild ride in Europe, from being part of one of the worst defenses in Premier League history with Sheffield United to representing Celtic in Champions League play. Because of his experience, there isn’t much that he hasn’t seen before, despite only being 27. Going through three managers and needing a final-day victory to win the Scottish Premiership title is something that has helped Trusty develop strong nerves, which will serve him well with the pressure of the World Cup on his shoulders. Trusty is also another player who will look for a strong showing in pre-World Cup friendlies in order to earn the third starting center back role ahead of facing Paraguay to kick off the group stage.

Joe Scally

USA • D • #23

ClubBorussia Monchengladbach

Age23

BirthplaceLake Grove, N.Y.

Caps24

Goals0

No matter the national team, World Cup rosters are usually made up of players with multiple skillsets and Joe Scally fits the bill from that standpoint. The 23-year-old, one of the team’s young veterans who also made the trip to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has historically played as a fullback for the national team and at the club level with Borussia Monchengladbach. Pochettino, though, has opted to use Scally as a center back in a back three, which might end up being his role at the World Cup if some of his teammates become unavailable. “I have a great relationship with the coach,” he said this month. “He just pretty much reiterates to play well at your club, get playing minutes, so I think that’s the main thing, to kind of just keep doing that. It puts me in the best possible place to be there at the World Cup and arrive at that 100%.” He will also have a friend along for the ride – he and Gio Reyna first befriended each other as products of New York City FC’s academy and are now teammates at ‘Gladbach. “I think spending a lot of time off the field and my wife and his fiancée also becoming very close — and also our dogs,” Reyna noted. “We were already close, but it feels like we’ve gotten even closer.”

Midfielders

Weston McKennie

USA • M • #8

ClubJuventus

Age27

BirthplaceFort Lewis, Wash.

Caps64

Goals12

The heart and soul of the USMNT, you don’t need to watch the team in action for long to see Weston McKennie’s importance to the squad. Some of his food takes may be controversial, but he keeps players motivated during training and pops up to do whatever is needed during a game. Pochettino has described Juventus as “Weston McKennie plus 10,” which is a nod to his versatility playing almost every position but goalkeeper, but also his importance to the squad, where he has become one of the first names on the team sheet. Given that McKennie is coming off a season where he scored nine goals and assisted eight more, this could be a World Cup that puts McKennie through the stratosphere. Even if things aren’t going well, he’s not a player who lets it get to him, as he has had to fight to get back into the Juventus XI multiple times during his career. McKennie also brings a danger from set plays where he can lose his marker and score with a header, so for all the right reasons, he’ll be a player who you can’t take your eyes off of when watching the USMNT in action.

Tyler Adams

USA • M • #4

ClubBournemouth

Age27

BirthplaceWappinger, N.Y.

Caps52

Goals2

The USMNT are one team when Tyler Adams is on the pitch and another one entirely when he isn’t. The 2022 World Cup captain has spent much of the last four years on the sidelines with different injuries, no one in the depth chart able to unseat him as the presumed starter at the base of the U.S. midfield. It is an appropriate position for Adams to play — he is the USMNT’s metronome, a player so talented Pochettino tried to recruit him for his Chelsea side a year before he took the U.S. job. He boasts a natural poise on the field, visible even as a 16-year-old who scored his first goal by outdoing the Blues in a friendly months after they won the Premier League title. Adams has described himself as fearless, to the point that he is clear-eyed about what he wants to accomplish this summer. “The journey that we’re on is growing the sport in America,” he said last year after two crushing defeats in the Concacaf Nations League finals. “We’re kind of trying to be the catalyst in doing that and with that, you need to have success so to give people optimism, obviously. I think for us, we need to make a bigger effort and [be] a team where people can get behind and support, whether it’s through passion, whether it’s through an amazing style of play, whether it’s through winning games, scoring amazing goals, whatever it is, but winning breeds that optimism for sure.”

Brenden Aaronson

USA • M • #11

ClubLeeds

Age25

BirthplaceMedford, N.J.

Caps57

Goals9

Not quite an eight and not quite a 10, Brenden Aaronson’s work rate has made up for his positionless play, keeping him in the lineup for Leeds United and in the mix for the national team. Another player who has had to prove himself time and time again, Aaronson has rebounded from moments like Leeds fans booing him off the pitch to providing a little bit of everything with four goals and five assists in all competitions. Even when it seemed like the 25-year-old had fallen down Pochettino’s pecking order during the September international break, Aaronson has been able to be a menace when pressing and make sure that he brings plenty to a squad even when he isn’t scoring.

Malik Tillman

USA • M • #17

ClubBayer Leverkusen

Age23

BirthplaceNuremberg, Germany

Caps28

Goals3

Malik Tillman is perhaps the greatest beneficiary of Pochettino’s open-door policy. The Germany-born midfielder was resigned to a spot warming the USMNT’s bench under ex-coach Gregg Berhalter, but became an important cog in the USMNT’s wheel during a transformational outing at last summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. The U.S.’ attacking operation is likely to run through Tillman, who can pick out an impressive pass and has an eye for goal, too, crediting a foundational spell at PSV for his improved finishing and ability on free kicks — and for paving the way for a move to Bayer Leverkusen as Florian Wirtz’s replacement. The move actually introduced him to Pochettino’s back three set-up before the national team coach implemented it, Tillman finding it to be a perfect fit for his skillset. “We want to have possession as much as possible,” he said about Pochettino’s tactical approach. “We want to score goals. We want to play an attractive, offensive football, so I think this suits me very well … I really like the system.”

Sebastian Berhalter

USA • M • #14

ClubVancouver Whitecaps

Age25

BirthplaceLondon, England

Caps11

Goals1

Compared to his teammates, who had started their national team careers in their early 20s, Sebastian Berhalter is a bit of a late bloomer. The midfielder laid low during stints at the Columbus Crew and Austin FC but things have trended upwards in recent years with the Vancouver Whitecaps, earning him a spot on the USMNT’s Gold Cup roster a year ago. He is one of a handful of fringe players who have made their moments count. Berhalter rounds out the depth chart, but comes to the World Cup with a special prowess for set pieces, which could make him a fairly frequent substitute this summer. Berhalter is a personification of Pochettino’s attempts to foster competition in a once tight-knit U.S. team. “Players like Sebastian Berhalter that scored unbelievable goals the other day that we didn’t call for different football decisions, this type of performance makes us to say maybe next time [he should be] with us,” Pochettino said in October, “but that is how you force the players that are here, seeing that type of behavior, attitude or performance, to improve.”

Cristian Roldan

USA • M • #15

ClubSeattle Sounders

Age30

BirthplaceArtesia, Calif.

Caps45

Goals0

Surprise standouts have had their moments on the USMNT’s road to the World Cup, Cristian Roldan amongst the most notable. The 30-year-old was part of the U.S. team in Qatar but had fallen off the radar almost completely – until a last-minute call-up in September. The spotlight finally landed on him when he notched two assists in the USMNT’s 2-1 win over Australia in October, after which Pochettino said Roldan possessed the attributes of a “perfect player” if you were to build one from scratch. It was a validating outing for a player who has spent his whole career in MLS while many of his U.S. teammates had cut their teeth in Europe. “I never really got the chance to play against the very best in the world,” he said after that game against Australia. “I didn’t play in the World Cup in ’22. I didn’t play in some of the bigger games with the national team. I never left Seattle and played in Europe, played in these [UEFA] Champions League games … I’m playing, I feel like, the best of my career. Unfortunately, it’s at age 30. I wish it was a little younger, but it’s great that number one, I’m getting seen, that I’m getting involved in camps and now feeling like I’m a part of the team.”

Giovanni Reyna

USA • M • #7

ClubBorussia Monchengladbach

Age23

BirthplaceSunderland, England

Caps36

Goals9

Gio Reyna might just be the most naturally gifted player in the USMNT’s player pool, but between a string of injuries, limited playing time at the club level, and a family feud, there was no guarantee he would make the cut for this summer’s World Cup. He seemed to know as much, too, in the final weeks before the squad was named, but was eager to make the point that he was willing to play whichever part was assigned to him. “Keep it pretty simple – I love the staff. I love the players,” he said earlier this month. “I love the national team. Obviously, whatever happens, happens. Really hoping and wanting to be there to make an impact and achieve something great with the team, but the decision is out of my hands and obviously just really hoping and waiting for the call-up.” Reyna’s inclusion, though, feels like a signal that Pochettino values natural talent above all else — even if onlookers have only been treated to glimpses of it over a stretch of several years.

Forwards

Christian Pulisic

USA • M • #10

ClubMilan

Age27

BirthplaceHershey, Pa.

Caps84

Goals32

If this is the USMNT’s golden generation, Christian Pulisic has been the team’s golden talent. He was already part of the senior national team’s set-up before he attended prom and has lived up to his potential in a lot of ways. He really started to prove himself as one of the sport’s notable attackers with his move to AC Milan in 2023, enjoying a handful of career-best seasons there. The face of his generation of USMNT players, though, enters the World Cup in the midst of a rough patch. He has not scored for club or country since Dec. 28, playing 22 games during that stretch. It is a problem Pochettino attempted to solve in March, positioning the versatile Pulisic closer to the goal in the hopes of scoring in the 2-0 loss to Portugal. It didn’t work that time, but Pochettino remained optimistic. “Unlucky, a shame a little bit that he didn’t score with the opportunity that he has. It’s normal,” Pochettino said at the time. “Yes, he feels frustrated, but that is what we want, what we expect, but he was fighting, he was committed in the phases that we demand more, and then with the ball, he’s going to score because he has the quality. I am sure that he is going to come back to his club, and in the moment he scores, he’s going to start to score again.”

Folarin Balogun

USA • F • #20

ClubAS Monaco

Age24

BirthplaceNew York, N.Y.

Caps25

Goals8

After another strong season for Monaco, Folarin Balogun is making a case for being the top-scoring American player ever in a top-five league. With 45 goals in league play, he only trails Christian Pulisic (64) and Clint Dempsey (57) in half as many games played. Since Balogun has committed to the USMNT, that scoring has followed too. His ability to create space for himself to get shots off in tight areas is second to none in the squad, as for the first time in a while, the USMNT are entering the World Cup with a forward who should be feared. Integrating with the squad, Balogun is also stepping up as a leader. It’s easy to forget that he’s only 24, but performing under pressure from a young age will help Balogun in a World Cup on home soil, where the USMNT may face the most pressure of any team in the 48-team field. The narrative around this team has long been, “Oh, they do this well, but this team would be so great if they scored goals.” Balogun is here to bring these goals and then some, even if he isn’t touching the ball often.

Ricardo Pepi

USA • F • #9

ClubPSV

Age23

BirthplaceEl Paso, Texas

Caps35

Goals13

Ricardo Pepi, missing the plane for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, was a surprise to many, but this season with PSV, he has done plenty to ensure that he can’t be left home again, scoring 19 goals for the club and not even letting a broken arm slow him down from contributing for his club or country. Able to play as a lone forward using his speed to beat defenders, or alongside another attacker, he brings versatility and a hunger to the attack. With transfer rumors to Fulham also swirling, this World Cup is a chance for Pepi to be able to show the world what he can do while helping the squad to a strong performance on home soil.

Timothy Weah

USA • F • #21

ClubMarseille

Age26

BirthplaceBrooklyn, N.Y.

Caps49

Goals7

Tim Weah describes himself as the USMNT’s Swiss Army knife, boasting both a wide range of on-field talents as a winger and a wing back and a diverse set of off-field interests. Weah has an appropriately layered personality for his unique origins — he is one of three players on the U.S. World Cup team with a former player for a parent, Weah’s father, George, still the only African player to win the Ballon d’Or. Weah’s soccer story, though, is rooted in the lesser-known Queens neighborhood of Rosedale, where his family coalesced in a pocket of Caribbean communities familiar to his Jamaican mother Clar. He scored the USMNT’s first goal at the 2022 World Cup, but his favorite memories from Qatar were the small moments watching movies and TV with teammates he’s known since they were in their teens. His tastes vary, naturally — “I watched the new ‘Dracula,’ absolutely loved it,” he said, referencing the film by French director Luc Besson. “I want to watch the Michael Jackson biopic. I haven’t watched that yet.” The foodie also has a fondness for cooking competition shows. “I love the Food Network. I watch Bobby Flay. I love it. I love ‘Iron Chef.’ There’s this new one – I don’t think it’s on the Food Network, but it’s this new one with Gordon Ramsay, ‘Next Level Chef’ … ‘Top Chef’ … It’s like a comfort watch. Food Network’s like a comfort watch for me because when I was a kid, I used to put it on all the time.”

Haji Wright

USA • F • #19

ClubCoventry City

Age28

BirthplaceLos Angeles, Calif.

Caps20

Goals7

Pochettino’s tenure with the USMNT will be defined by the chances he handed out to a wide variety of players, several grabbing those opportunities with both hands. The list includes Haji Wright, who scored the U.S.’ last goal at a World Cup and returns to the tournament on the back of an 18-goal season for Coventry City. His road to the World Cup has been marred by injuries, but Wright has proven himself to be a capable option, truly standing out with both goals in a 2-1 win over Australia in October. “That is what we expect when you give the opportunity to the player, no?” Pochettino said at the time. “I think that is good news to have players that can compete for a spot in the World Cup. I think every time that we can have the possibility to provide the player — maybe they didn’t play too much in the last year with us — I think that is an important thing. It’s to say, ‘I am here and I want to play. I want to be part of this team,’ and with [a] performance like this, it’s for sure a player that performed like that, Haji can be close. It’s possible to be involved.”

Alex Zendejas

USA • M • #26

ClubClub America

Age28

BirthplaceCiudad Juarez, Mexico

Caps13

Goals2

Out of the USMNT picture due to injuries since the September international break, when he scored off the bench against Japan, Alex Zendejas’ manager, Andre Jardine, has been one of the biggest leaders of the Zendejas to the World Cup campaign. Jardine called Zendejas one of the best midfielders in Liga MX, and he followed that lead, scoring six goals and assisting three more in 2026 while closing out the season as one of the most in-form American attackers. Zendejas brings something different to the attack, being so comfortable shooting or setting up his teammates, and he’s not going to take anything for granted following the difficulty of performing while dealing with injuries. Pochettino has continued to state that the door is always open for players, and Zendejas’ making it to the World Cup does show that.

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World Cup 2026: Brazil and Morocco put on a show and secure qualification – Sports

Published

8 minutes ago

25 June 2026

NewsAdmin

Just like in their opening win over Haiti (3-0), Brazil made light work of Scotland on Wednesday, cruising to another 3-0 victory to finish top of Group C, ahead of Morocco. The Atlas Lions also impressed, beating Haiti 4-2 in a thrilling comeback-filled encounter. The night was highlighted by Neymar’s World Cup debut, with the Brazilian superstar back in action after injury.

Elsewhere in sports news, Switzerland pulled off a major statement win. The Nati defeated Canada 2-1 to claim top spot in Group B, finishing ahead of their opponents on the night.

Bosnia and Herzegovina also took a huge step towards the Round of 16 with a 3-1 victory over Qatar, a result that should see them through among the best third-placed teams.

Mexico made it three wins from three after beating the Czech Republic 3-0. The Mexicans topped their group, ahead of South Africa, who edged past and overtook South Korea in the standings with a 1-0 win.

On Thursday, already-qualified Germany face Ecuador with a simple goal: make it three wins out of three in the group stage. Ivory Coast, currently second in Group E, are also in a strong position to advance, a draw against Curaçao on Thursday would be enough for the Elephants to continue their World Cup journey.

France have already secured their place in the Round of 16. Against Norway on Friday, Les Bleus are expected to rotate their squad, with five changes likely. Captain Kylian Mbappé, who has scored four goals in two games, should start once again.

And finally, a long-awaited announcement: Brazilian legend Ronaldinho has officially joined Italian third-division club Ravenna. A publicity stunt or a real comeback? The 2022 World Cup winner is expected on August 21 for the team presentation.

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Packers End Up on a Naughty List

Published

21 minutes ago

25 June 2026

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Packers coach Matt LaFleur in May 2026 — Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur speaks following rookie minicamp Friday, May 1 2026, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. © Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
© Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.

The NFL offseason is over, all 32 teams have transitioned to minicamp, and training camp arrives in about five weeks. And with the perk of hindsight, CBS Sports has decided that the Minnesota Vikings’ main rival, the Green Bay Packers, had the fourth-worst offseason around the sport.

It’s rare shade for Green Bay, a franchise largely known for wise decision-making.

Packers Have Roster Questions ahead of 2026 Regular Season

Micah Parsons celebrates after the Packers defeated the Vikings at Lambeau Field. Green Bay Packers offseason — Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons celebrates after a victory over the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Parsons enjoyed the divisional win on November 23, 2025, as the Packers secured an important late-season result and the star defender continued adding impact plays to his impressive campaign. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images.

Jordan Dajani: Packers’ Offseason Was Rough

Per Dajani, the Jacksonville Jaguars took the naughty prize of the worst offseason, but the Packers weren’t far behind, three spots away.

He explained, “Green Bay has established itself as a middle-of-the-road team, and the problem is I think it got worse this offseason. Green Bay lost its most reliable wide receiver in Romeo Doubs, linebacker Quay Walker and left tackle Rasheed Walker in free agency.”

“The Packers also parted ways with cornerback Nate Hobbs and offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins, and traded pass rusher Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys and wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks to the Eagles. As far as additions go, the headliners were veteran linebacker Zaire Franklin, defensive lineman Javon Hargrave and South Carolina defensive back Brandon Cisse.”

Oddsmakers expect Green Bay to finish in second place in the NFC North, narrowly losing out on the top spot to the Detroit Lions.

Dajani continued, “Then factor in that star pass rusher Micah Parsons is expected to start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which means he will miss at least four games, and the Packers should be worried about star running back Josh Jacobs, who is facing domestic violence charges. When you look at the NFC North, the Bears are coming off their best season in more than a decade, the Lions are always going to be competitive and the Minnesota Vikings have reason for optimism with new quarterback Kyler Murray.”

“Talking heads have tried to label the Packers as sleepers in 2024 and 2025, ever since that impressive 2023 playoff run in Jordan Love’s first season as a starter. However, I feel less optimistic about Green Bay than I have in years.”

Losses Outweigh the Additions

Dajani outlined the Packers’ additions — Franklin, Hargrave, and Cisse, among others — but the subtractions were unfortunately noteworthy.

Offloading Jenkins, Gary, Wicks, and Hobbs, in addition to Malik Willis, Quay Walker, Romeo Doubs, Kingsley Enagbare, and Emmanuel Wilson, is no small project. Green Bay even had a brief relationship with cornerback Trevon Diggs, but was not interested in prolonging it.

The Packers may find a way “not to miss” all their departures, but from a June perspective, they said goodbye to more talent than they welcomed.

Help Needed at OLB, at Least for a While

Green Bay also needs help at outside linebacker. It’s unclear when Parsons will return — it could be October, or it could be near Thanksgiving. Parsons is such a star that it would be utterly foolish to rush him back from his torn ACL.

Lukas Van Ness waits in the tunnel before the Packers' playoff game against the Eagles. Green Bay Packers offseason — Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness waits in the tunnel before an NFC wild-card game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Van Ness prepared for postseason action on January 12, 2025, as Green Bay opened its playoff run and the young pass rusher entered another important stage of his development. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images.

In the meantime, the Packers will rely on these EDGE defenders:

Lukas Van Ness
Barryn Sorrell
Dani Dennis-Sutton
Brenton Cox Jr.
Arron Mosby
Nyjalik Kelly
Dante Barnett

For a Super Bowl-contending team, that group is underwhelming, and until the Packers signed a free agent like Joey Bosa or Leonard Floyd, they’re merely hoping for the best.

The club has also been tied to Jadeveon Clowney’s free agency in the rumor mill, though every NFC North team could stand to add Clowney. It’s a summer of 2026 oddity — every NFC North squad seems to need one more pass rusher.

Packers Usually Figure It Out

If you’re a Packers fan reading this — probably not on a Vikings-themed site, right? — have no fear. Green Bay has an uncanny tendency to make the most of suspect situations, even after Aaron Rodgers left the franchise in 2023.

Jordan Love and Co. seem to have the NFC’s seventh seed on lock, and until proven otherwise, onlookers should pencil them for a 9-8 record or better. The Packers are coached well, Love is a Top 15 passer, and the rest just falls into place.

Jordan Love throws a pass for the Packers against the Eagles in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Green Bay Packers offseason — Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love drops back to pass against the Philadelphia Eagles at Neo Quimica Arena in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Love directed the offense on September 6, 2024, during the NFL’s international opener as Green Bay began its season and the quarterback continued his rise as the franchise’s starter. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

Regarding the naughty list — all the departures and the “bad” offseason — the Super Bowl might be a long shot. It’s why Green Bay has +2200 Super Bowl odds, when a club like the Los Angeles Rams is at +550.

The Packers’ season begins in about 80 days at U.S. Bank Stadium against — you guessed it — the Vikings.

Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker

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Mexico Finish Perfect Group Campaign as Czech Republic Crash Out

Published

34 minutes ago

25 June 2026

NewsAdmin

Mexico completed a flawless group-stage campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic, securing maximum points and ending the Europeans’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Already guaranteed top spot in Group A after victories over South Africa and South Korea, co-hosts Mexico took the opportunity to rotate their squad in Mexico City. The changes paid off as several fringe players impressed in a dominant display.

Left-back Mateo Chavez opened the scoring shortly after half-time, showing excellent composure to net his first international goal and give Mexico the breakthrough.

Teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora, making his first start of the tournament, was one of Mexico’s standout performers. The 17-year-old helped create the second goal when his pass released Jorge Sanchez through on goal. Although goalkeeper Matej Kovar initially made the save, Julian Quinones reacted quickest to poke home the loose ball for his second goal of the tournament.

Mora’s performance was another historic moment for Mexican football. At 17 years and 253 days old, he became the sixth-youngest player ever to start a men’s World Cup match and the youngest Mexican to achieve the feat.

The youngster received a standing ovation from the home crowd when he was substituted in the 72nd minute.

His replacement, Alvaro Fidalgo, put the result beyond doubt by curling a fine effort into the top corner from 15 yards to complete the scoring.

The Azteca Stadium crowd also gave a warm reception to veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa when he came on late in the match. The 40-year-old is taking part in his sixth World Cup, equalling the record held by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The defeat confirmed the Czech Republic’s elimination from the tournament. They finished bottom of Group A with just one point from three matches.

Mexico, meanwhile, advance to the knockout stage with a perfect nine points from three games and will face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams in the last 32.

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Good Boost says its exercise programmes offer a viable alternative to traditional physiotherapy

Published

47 minutes ago

25 June 2026

NewsAdmin

By Kath Hudson 22 Jun 2026

Good Boost’s digital exercise programmes are helping adults with MSK at a lower cost than physiotherapy, according to a study carried out by the University of Exeter and Global Social Prescribing Alliance.

The social enterprise currently delivers its services in more than 300 community venues across the UK, such as swimming pools and leisure centres, providing personalised, therapeutic exercise via phones or tablets. The app personalises movement and responds to real-time feedback.

It’s aimed at supporting people who are living with long-term health conditions and the programme is being expanded nationally through leisure operators, local authorities and direct partnerships with Public Health teams, the NHS and Integrated Care Boards.

Studying more than 40,000 of these exercise sessions, Good Boost found that after six weeks, people showed small but significant improvements in how well they could move, how happy they felt, and their anxiety levels.

At 12-week and 26-week follow-ups, more than one third of people were experiencing less pain, while around 47 per cent achieved clinically meaningful improvement in physical function. More than 65 per cent reported a positive improvement in their condition.

Results were comparable to traditional physiotherapy but more affordable. If someone takes part in Good Boost sessions twice a week for three months, it will cost £100 to £120 – which giving a typical cost saving of £168 per person, when compared to the cost of NHS physiotherapy. In addition, patients often have to wait longer than 14 weeks for NHS physiotherapy appointments.

Ben Wilkins, CEO of Good Boost, says: “The study demonstrated that improvements individuals are making through our digital exercise programmes are very similar to the outcomes from face-to-face physiotherapy.

“The evidence shows us that our programmes are safe, accessible and a valuable tool in managing long-term joint and muscle conditions and also scalable with the potential to achieve a significant cost saving to the NHS.

“This could be genuinely transformative for the future of musculoskeletal care in the UK and we need to start reimagining community spaces as hubs for preventative healthcare.”

The University of Exeter established that its programme delivers £2,000 in social value per participant. The average cost for every person taking part is £129 and for every £1 of cost, Good Boost delivers £16.50 in social value. That’s approximately more than 11 times more cost-effective than the expected cost of delivering similar NHS programmes.

Lifestyle and physical activity lead, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi – who will be speaking at this year’s HCM Summit – says: “These findings highlight the huge potential of digitally-enabled, personalised physical activity to support people living with long-term musculoskeletal conditions.

“By combining evidence-based movement with community delivery, programmes like Good Boost can improve outcomes, widen access, and reduce pressure on NHS services. This is exactly the kind of prevention-focused, neighbourhood health approach the NHS urgently needs.”

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World Cup 2026: Neymar – the return of Brazil’s forgotten hero

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1 hour ago

25 June 2026

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While the damage had already been done by the new hopes of Selecao, the old timer showed flashes of what could still be to come in the canary yellow of his nation.

He spent 20 minutes on the park, enjoying 24 touches – the man he replaced on 76 minutes managed just 14 more. He also managed a shot on target.

Really, it did not matter. The big screens once again locked on to him post match as he went over to the fans before embracing his young daughter at the front of the stand.

A hero had returned for Brazil at a time where the want for greatness is craved ferociously.

The five-time world champions have been without the game’s biggest prize since 2002. You have to go back to 2019 for their last tournament win when their ninth Copa America was bagged.

Under Ancelotti, the Brazilians have been inconsistent. Wins have not been achieved against Argentina, Ecuador, Bolivia, Japan, Tunisia, France and, most recently, Morocco.

Against a self-sabotaging Scotland, they had spells of swagger, with a ruthless streak cooked in for good measure.

Supporters drifted out of the Miami Stadium rejoicing, for the victory which has them topping Group C, and because their forgotten man played his part.

“Pele is the best player of all time. No comparison,” one supporter told BBC Sport as he headed out the ground. “He won three World Cups for Brazil.

“Neymar will be among the best ones. He could be in the same level as Ronaldo or Ronaldinho if he wins the World Cup.

“I was in 2016 at Maracana, when he was the guy who scored the decider at the Olympics, and that was a title that Brazil never had before, but the World Cup is the title that we need, and we’re going for the six stars.

“I think he’s able to open up the field and bring out jogo bonito [play beautifully], as they say.

“They have to respect who he is and who he once was, because if you don’t, he’ll make you pay, that’s for sure.”

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Blue Jays Latest, June 24

Published

1 hour ago

25 June 2026

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Blue Jays Latest, June 24

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South Africa stun South Korea, advance in second place from Group A

Published

1 hour ago

25 June 2026

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June 24, 2026; Monterrey, Mexico; South Africa’s Thapelo Maseko scores their first goal. Mandatory Credit: Eloisa Sanchez-Reuters via Imagn Images

Thapelo Maseko’s second-half goal lifted South Africa to a must-win 1-0 result against South Korea in their Group A finale in Guadalupe, Mexico, on Wednesday, sending Bafana Bafana to the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.

Maseko put South Africa in front in the 63rd minute with a clinical finish, burying a shot from his favored left foot to the right corner after a precision pass by Tshepang Moremi.

Ronwen Williams preserved the lead with a save on Park Jin-seob’s header in the third minute of second-half stoppage time.

South Korea (1-2-0, 3 points) needed a win or draw to finish runner-up to Mexico and advance to the round of 32.

South Africa (1-1-1, 4 points) had to win and have Czech Republic lose to Mexico in the concurrent match to claim the second spot. Mexico (3-0-9, 9 points) logged a 3-0 win over the Czechs (0-2-1, 1 points), and when the hosts’ 1-0 lead was posted in the Guadalupe stadium in the 55th minute, the South African fans joined the Mexicans in attendance in celebrating.

South Africa was written off by many after losing the opening match of the World Cup 2-0 to Mexico while having two players sent off.

The South Africans had failed to get out of the group stage in their previous World Cups in 1998, 2002 and 2010.

South Korea still have a chance to advance in the event as one of the best third-place teams, but they will need other results to go their way.

South Korea started as if it were playing for the win with several forays into the penalty area in the first three minutes but soon fell into a conservative mode. That change allowed the underdog South Africans to have the better of the play for the remainder of the first half.

If not for three saves by Kim Seung-gyu and poor finishing, South Africa could have carried a lead into halftime.

South Korea’s Kim Min-jae’s header in the third minute was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba, but after that it was all South Africa.

South Africa had two chances in the 30th minute, only to have Kim make back-to-back stops.

First, Thalente Mbatha found space at the top of the box and put a well-driven strike on target. Kim made the save but spilled the rebound. Evidence Makgopa, who barely managed to stay onside, collected the rebound at the 6-yard box, but Kim was in perfect position for the denial.

–Field Level Media

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Guillermo Ochoa Retires From Professional Football With Huge Record In Final Appearance

Published

2 hours ago

25 June 2026

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Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, also known as Memo Ochoa, officially retired from professional football after scripting a massive record on Thursday. He played in Mexico’s final FIFA World Cup 2026 group game against Czechia in Mexico City, which the co-hosts ended up winning 3-0. Ochoa came in as a substitute in the 77th minute of the match. With this final appearance at the age of 40 years and 346 days, he became the oldest player to represent Mexico in the tournament’s history. Ochoa broke the previous record of Rafa Marquez, who had achieved it against Brazil in 2018 at the age of 39 years and 139 days.

Mateo Chavez and Julian Quinones scored in a six-minute span early in the second half, and Mexico beat the Czech Republic 3-0 on Wednesday night to win all three of its World Cup group-stage matches for the first time.

The 22-year-old Chavez, in his first World Cup, opened the scoring in the 55th minute and Quinones scored his second goal of the tournament in the 61st. Alvaro Fidalgo added a goal in second-half stoppage time.

Mexico’s previous best group-stage performance was two wins and one draw, done in 1986 and 2002 and both featuring Javier Aguirre, the first as a midfielder and the second as El Tri’s coach. Aguirre is back as coach this year, his third stint leading the team.

Already the winner of Group A, Mexico will play again at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday in a round-of-32 match against an opponent to be determined.

Mexico is undefeated at nine World Cup matches at the massive stadium, which was packed with 80,824 fans on Wednesday. El Tri has only two losses at Azteca, most recently in World Cup qualifying against Honduras on Sept. 6, 2013.

The match included nods to Mexico’s past and future. Gilberto Mora, at age 17, became the youngest Mexico player to start in a World Cup. And 40-year-old goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa entered in the 77th minute, joining Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo as the only players to appear in six World Cups.

Mexico’s triumph was marred, however, by the return of a homophobic chant by fans that has previously led to fines and other sanctions against its soccer federation. The chant, a one-word slur that literally means male prostitute in Spanish, was heard near the end of the first half when Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar took a goal kick.

The Czech Republic was eliminated, finishing with one point in three games.

Mexico is unbeaten in 11 games dating to a friendly loss against Panama last November. And Aguirre has made the most of his roster, using 25 of 26 players in the tournament. Chavez was one of five starters Wednesday who did not start last Thursday’s 1-0 win over South Korea.

Ochoa, who wears No. 13, played the last 13 minutes, plus stoppage time, in what’s likely to be his final appearance for Mexico. He turns 41 on July 13 and has said he plans to retire from international competition after the World Cup.

He was a substitute in the 2006 and 2010 tournaments and started for Mexico in 2014, 2018 and 2022.

Raul Rangel is the starter this year, stepping in for the injured Luis Angel Malagon, who helped Mexico win the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup last year. Malagon’s injury opened the door for Ochoa’s return.

(With agency inputs)

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Lions’ Terrion Arnold arrested in connection to Florida kidnapping and robbery

Published

2 hours ago

25 June 2026

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TAMPA, Fla. — Detroit Lions player Terrion Arnold has been arrested in connection to a kidnapping and robbery in Florida and faces felony charges, officials said Wednesday.

Arnold, 23, is accused of being the “primary conspirator” before three men in their late teens were held at gunpoint, battered and pistol-whipped in February in Tampa, the city’s police department said in a statement. Some of their belongings were stolen, police said.

Arnold is facing four counts of a weapon-related charge and four more counts of a charge related to kidnapping, harming or terrorizing, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrest records.

Tampa police had already arrested six others suspected of being part of the targeted armed robbery. Two of them have pleaded guilty and the other four are being held without bond, according to the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office.

Denise White, CEO of EAG Sports Management, which represents Arnold, said he denies being involved.

“There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations,” White said in a statement. “Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted felons who have admitted their own involvement and may have substantial incentives to shift blame in an effort to lessen their sentences.”

In early February, Arnold and a few of his friends had reported more than $250,000 worth of their property being stolen from an Airbnb in Largo, police said.

Arnold believed that two men in their late teens had been behind it, although investigators later determined this was not the case, police said.

Hours after reporting the theft, Arnold orchestrated the kidnapping and robbery, according to the State Attorney’s Office.

Arnold and his friends worked to get the men, along with another, to an apartment on Feb. 4, police said. Initially, two of Arnold’s friends held them at gunpoint and hit them, while another streamed it to Arnold, police said. Later, when the assault was still going on, Arnold also came to the apartment, police said. His other friends stole some of the victims’ belongings, police said.

The victims reported the robbery to police.

“No one has the right to take the law into their own hands,” State Attorney Suzy Lopez said in a statement. “A dispute over missing property does not justify kidnapping, violence, or retaliation.”

Arnold is a starting cornerback for the Detroit Lions who was a first-round pick in the 2024 draft after playing at the University of Alabama. He is from Florida.

The Lions said in a statement Wednesday night that they were aware of the situation but would not be commenting at this time.

“Arnold is facing multiple felony charges which carry a potential sentence of up to life in prison,” according to the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office.

Arnold turned himself in to law enforcement on Wednesday. He is expected to make his first appearance in Hillsborough County court Thursday afternoon, according to the State Attorney’s Office.

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Five IPL franchises enter Hurun India 500 as sport turns asset class | Business

Published

2 hours ago

25 June 2026

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long blurred the line between sport, entertainment and commerce. The 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 has now given that shift a corporate stamp, with five IPL franchises making their debut among India’s 500 most valuable non-state-run companies.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have entered the list, becoming part of the same corporate universe as India’s largest private-sector businesses. Their combined valuation of more than Rs 71,000 crore signals a defining moment for Indian sport: cricket franchises are no longer being seen only as teams, but as mature business enterprises.

“Cricket is no longer just India’s sport; it is India’s business. The debut of CSK, KKR, PBKS, RR and RCB on the 2025 Hurun India 500, with a combined valuation of over Rs 71,000 crore, is a defining moment: for the first time, the boardroom and the boundary rope are on the same list,” said Anas Rahman Junaid, founder and chief researcher, Hurun India.

Knight Riders leads the group at rank 270 with a valuation of Rs 20,850 crore, followed by Super Kings at rank 285 with Rs 19,550 crore. RCB has been valued at Rs 16,700 crore, placing it at rank 330. Royals is ranked 343 with a valuation of Rs 15,700 crore, while Punjab Kings entered at rank 390 with Rs 14,050 crore.

The debut of IPL franchises in the Hurun India 500 marks a shift in how sports properties are being valued in India. For years, IPL teams were seen largely through the prism of on-field performance, star players, sponsorship deals and fan loyalty. Their entry into a list of India’s most valuable private-sector companies suggests that investors and valuation experts are now looking at them as scalable corporate assets.

An IPL franchise today resembles a consumer-facing enterprise as much as a sports team. Its value is tied not only to wins and losses but also to the strength of its brand, the size of its fan base, its ability to attract sponsors, and the predictability of cash flows from cricket’s most valuable league.

Why KKR, CSK and RCB lead the table

The ranking also shows how brand depth and market recall are being rewarded. KKR, CSK and RCB are the three most valuable franchises among the five that entered the list.

KKR’s valuation of Rs 20,850 crore puts it ahead of the other IPL entities in the ranking. CSK follows closely at Rs 19,550 crore, underlining the value of one of the league’s most consistent and widely followed franchises. RCB, valued at Rs 16,700 crore, continues to command significant corporate value despite not having the same title-winning history as CSK or KKR.

This suggests that franchise value is no longer determined only by trophies. Fan loyalty, brand visibility, star association and marketability also shape enterprise value. RCB’s presence in the top three among IPL franchises is a clear example of how a large and engaged fan base can translate into corporate worth.

Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, valued at Rs 15,700 crore and Rs 14,050 crore, respectively, show that the value creation is not limited to the league’s most decorated teams. Even franchises with uneven on-field histories are now valuable enough to sit among India’s top 500 non-state-run companies.

The IPL’s corporate evolution

The IPL has always been a commercial success, but this development reflects a deeper evolution. Franchises are now being valued as enterprises with recurring relevance rather than seasonal visibility.

A strong IPL team can generate commercial value across multiple layers. It offers live sport inventory, digital engagement, sponsorship exposure, content opportunities and brand extensions. The league’s annual cycle also keeps franchises in public conversation through auctions, retentions, player trades, pre-season campaigns, match windows and off-season content.

Total India Inc value exceeds $3.4 trillion

The 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 values India’s 500 most valuable non-state-run companies at $3.4 trillion. To qualify for the list, companies needed a minimum valuation of Rs 10,230 crore as of April 30, 2026, up 7 per cent from last year. The cohort employs 8.9 million people, contributes Rs 3.23 trillion in taxes, and invests Rs 13,433 crore in corporate social responsibility initiatives.

“The companies in the 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 form the backbone of India’s private sector, wielding significant economic influence. Together, they have a cumulative valuation of US$3.4 trillion — higher than the GDP of Canada and the combined GDPs of Indonesia and Spain — and employ 8.9 million people,” Junaid said.

Reliance Industries retained the top rank for the fifth consecutive year, while Bharti Airtel entered the top tier after adding Rs 7.6 trillion in value since 2021. The list saw 95 new entrants, the highest in its history. Financial services and healthcare dominated value creation, while artificial intelligence, defence manufacturing and renewable energy emerged as important growth themes. Sarvam AI became the first homegrown large language model developer to enter the list.

Arnika Dixit, Group Head – Cards, Payments and Wealth Management, Axis Bank, said the report reflected a phase of steady evolution in India’s corporate landscape, where companies were building scale even as they adapted, invested through cycles, and found new ways to stay relevant.

“What is increasingly evident is how the drivers of value creation are becoming more varied, with momentum extending beyond traditional centres into a wider, more diverse set of businesses and markets,” Dixit said.

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