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The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will proceed as planned, regardless of the political climate, according to organizers. LA28 chairman Casey Wasserman emphasized that the Games transcend politics and are a symbol of national unity.Wasserman expressed confidence in collaborating with the incoming Trump administration, noting that the Games were awarded to Los Angeles during Trump's previous presidency. He highlighted the ongoing communication with the president-elect's transition team."The Olympics are not about politics, they're about red, white, and blue," Wasserman stated. "These are America's games taking place in Los Angeles, and they rise above politics."Wasserman emphasized the bipartisan nature of the Games, citing the involvement of both Republican and Democratic administrations in previous preparations. He also dismissed concerns about the Trump administration's immigration policies potentially disrupting Olympic preparations."President-elect Trump has been clear about the responsibility we have hosting world events, including the Olympics," Wasserman said. "We have no doubt that the federal government will fulfill its obligations regarding security, transportation, and logistics."LA28 chief executive Reynold Hoover confirmed that organizers had congratulated Trump and were already engaging with the incoming administration. He stressed the importance of collaboration with federal partners, including the Department of State, Homeland Security, and Commerce.Despite concerns expressed by some Los Angeles officials about potential funding cuts under the Trump administration, Wasserman remained optimistic. He emphasized the Games' economic benefits and the city's commitment to working with the federal government to ensure a successful event."We are confident that the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will be a source of pride and unity for our nation," Wasserman concluded. "We will continue to work tirelessly to deliver an unforgettable experience for athletes, fans, and the world."

Manipur's hockey team has defied all odds to reach the semifinals of the Hockey India-14th senior National men's championship in Chennai. Despite facing obstacles such as ethnic violence and financial constraints, the team has showcased remarkable resilience and determination.The team's journey began in October, when preparations were hampered by ongoing violence in Manipur. Practice sessions were frequently canceled, and the team's participation in the Nationals was uncertain due to lack of funds. However, through the support of well-wishers, including businessmen, individuals, and politicians, Manipur managed to secure the necessary resources to travel to Chennai.On the field, Manipur has played with a combination of skill, passion, and strategy. They upset Bengal in the group stage and then stunned defending champion Punjab in the quarterfinals. This victory was particularly sweet for Manipur, as they had lost to Punjab at the same stage last year.Midfielder Nilakanta Sharma, a Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, has been a key figure for Manipur. He guided the younger players and provided valuable experience. Sharma emphasized the team's strong mentality and the importance of securing jobs for the players."It was very satisfying to reach the semifinals. My boys must get a job. That will be even more satisfying," said Sharma.Manipur's success has not only brought pride to the state but has also highlighted the challenges faced by athletes in conflict-ridden regions. The team's determination to overcome adversity serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve their dreams.

Babita Phogat, the former Indian wrestler whose life story inspired the blockbuster Bollywood film "Dangal," has made a startling revelation about the movie's financial details. Despite the film's massive success, Phogat's family received a mere INR 1 crore from its earnings."Out of Rs 2,000 crore made from Dangal, the Phogat family received only Rs 1 crore?" Phogat was asked during an interview with News 24. The wrestler-turned-politician confirmed the figure, stating, "Yes."Phogat emphasized that her family's primary motivation was not financial gain but rather to earn respect and love. "My father always said that we should seek people's love and respect," she explained."Dangal," released in 2016, chronicled the journey of Phogat, her sister Geeta Phogat, and their father, Mahavir Phogat. The film depicted how Mahavir Phogat transformed his daughters into world-class wrestlers, earning numerous accolades for India.Babita Phogat herself has achieved significant success in wrestling. She won a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and a bronze medal at the 2012 World Wrestling Championships. She also represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympics.After retiring from wrestling in 2019, Phogat entered politics. She is currently a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has been vocal about her desire to empower women and promote sports in India.Phogat's revelation about the financial details of "Dangal" has sparked discussions about the distribution of profits in the film industry. It also highlights the importance of fair compensation for those whose stories inspire successful films.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced that the 38th edition of the National Games will be held in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, 2025. The Games will feature competitions in 38 sports, with over 10,000 athletes, officials, and coaches expected to participate.The IOA and the Government of Uttarakhand are working closely to ensure that the Games will be an exceptional experience for all involved. Venues are being constructed and upgraded to international standards, and necessary logistical arrangements are being made to accommodate participants and visitors.The picturesque state of Uttarakhand, known for its natural beauty and rich culture, is preparing to host the multi-disciplinary event for the first time. Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressed his gratitude to the IOA for entrusting the state with the responsibility of hosting the Games, stating, "We are committed to delivering a world-class sporting experience. The National Games will not only be a celebration of sports but also a showcase of Uttarakhand's rich culture and hospitality."The National Games provide a vital platform for athletes from all over the country to showcase their talents and continue their journey towards international sporting success. IOA chief PT Usha said, "We are thrilled to bring the National Games to Uttarakhand, a state that has shown remarkable enthusiasm and commitment to hosting this prestigious event."The State Government has initiated significant infrastructure development projects to ensure the success of the event. Venues are being constructed and upgraded to international standards, and necessary logistical arrangements are being made to accommodate participants and visitors.The 38th National Games are expected to be a major sporting event, showcasing the best of Indian athletic talent. The Games will also provide a boost to the economy of Uttarakhand, as well as promote tourism in the state.

The much-anticipated Hockey India League (HIL) is set to make a grand return after a seven-year hiatus, with both men's and women's teams participating in the event from December 28. The men's competition will feature eight teams, while six sides will compete in the women's event, which is being held for the first time. The league will be played in two venues — Rourkela for men and Ranchi for women — from December 28 to February 1.The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has granted a 10-year sanction for the HIL. The player auction for the league will be held from October 13 to 15. A total of 10 franchise owners have come on board, and players will be auctioned in three categories: Rs 2 lakh, Rs 5 lakh, and Rs 10 lakh.The return of the HIL is not only a significant moment in the history of the sport but also a major step forward in promoting women's hockey. The introduction of an exclusive women's league within the HIL framework is seen as providing a platform for female athletes to showcase their prowess, paving the way for a more inclusive and competitive future for Indian hockey.The franchise owners of the men's event are:* Chennai – Charles Group* Lucknow – Yadu Sports* Punjab – JSW Sports* West Bengal – Shrachi Sports* Delhi – SG Sports and Entertainment, owned by tennis legend Mahesh Bhupathi* Odisha – Vedanta Limited* Hyderabad – Resolute Sports* Ranchi – Navoyam Sports Ventures Private LimitedThe women team owners are:* Haryana – JSW Sports* West Bengal – Shrachi Sports* Delhi – SG Sports and Entertainment* Odisha - Navoyam Sports Ventures Private LimitedThe remaining two franchise owners of the women's league will be announced later. Each franchise will have a 24-player squad, consisting of at least 16 Indian players (with a mandatory inclusion of four junior players) and eight international stars.The final of the women's league is scheduled for January 26 next year in Ranchi, while the men's summit clash will be held on February 1 in Rourkela. Hockey India president and chairman of HIL, Dilip Tirkey, expressed his delight at the revival of the league, saying it was his dream since taking over the charge of the federation."Premier Hockey League started the culture of league in the world. Since the day we were elected it was our dream to revive the league and today the dream has been fulfilled," Tirkey said during the launch of the event in New Delhi on Friday (October 4, 2024)."HIL has been and will be a supply chain for the national teams. HIL is going to create a history for the sport. HIL is very important for world hockey. We are thankful to International Hockey Federation (FIH) for giving us 35 days window," he said.HI secretary general Bhola Nath Singh agreed with Tirkey, saying starting the HIL was their aim from day one after taking charge of the federation."The first day we joined our first though was to restart HIL. It was long time waiting. Hockey is not just a sport in India, it is in our hearts," Singh said.He also announced that the Odisha government has extended its sponsorship deal with Indian hockey till 2036.

India to Host Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in 2023The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has announced that the first edition of the Kho Kho World Cup will be held in India next year. The tournament will feature 16 men's and women's teams from 24 countries across six continents.Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport, has gained significant popularity globally in recent years. It is now played in 54 countries worldwide. The KKFI aims to further promote the sport and secure its recognition as an Olympic discipline by 2032."Kho Kho has its roots in India, and this World Cup will showcase the sport's rich cultural heritage and competitive spirit," said KKFI president Sudhanshu Mittal. "Our ultimate goal is to see Kho Kho recognized as an Olympic sport, and this World Cup is a crucial step towards that dream."The tournament will provide a platform for the world's best Kho Kho players to compete and showcase their skills. It is expected to attract a large audience and generate significant interest in the sport.The KKFI is working closely with the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) to ensure the success of the World Cup. The tournament will be held in accordance with international standards and will feature state-of-the-art facilities.The announcement of the Kho Kho World Cup has been met with enthusiasm by the Indian sporting community. It is seen as a major milestone in the development of the sport and a testament to India's growing stature in the global sporting arena.

The Indian hockey team's recent Olympic success has dispelled the notion that they concede late goals, according to legendary hockey player Zafar Iqbal. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side has emerged as a formidable force in all aspects of the game, he believes.Iqbal, a gold medalist at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and captain of the 1982 Asian Games silver-winning Indian team, is optimistic about the sport's resurgence in India following the bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris."The general impression before was that India is a team that concedes goals late in games, but that has changed now," Iqbal said. "We are one of the best teams in the world in all aspects."Iqbal recalls the immense popularity of hockey in his era, with events like the Nehru Gold Cup and Asian Games drawing large crowds. He hopes that the recent Olympic success will reignite the passion for the sport in the country.The upcoming India vs. Germany matches at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi on October 23 and 24 have generated excitement among hockey enthusiasts. Iqbal believes that Germany is a tough opponent, but he is confident that the Indians will be motivated to perform well."The facilities are top-notch, and I am sure the game will be filled with riveting action," he added. "I would like to take this opportunity to invite hockey fans to turn up in numbers to support our team."Another hockey legend, Harbinder Singh, is equally upbeat about the return of big matches to the national capital. He recalls playing for the national team at Shivaji Stadium in 1972, where the stadium was packed to capacity."I believe a lot of fans will turn up to cheer for India and Germany as well," said Singh, a gold winner at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and bronze medalist at the 1968 Mexico and 1972 Munich Games. "They will be witnessing a high-level international match after a decade after all."With the matches against Olympic silver winners Germany, international hockey is returning to New Delhi after a decade. The last time India played at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium was during the Hockey World League Final Men's Round 4 in January 2014.Last year, Chennai hosted the Men's Asian Champions Trophy, while Ranchi organized the Women's Asian Champions Trophy and the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier. In November 2024, Rajgir, a city in Bihar, will host the Women's Asian Champions Trophy.India's Olympic hockey medals are a testament to the country's rich history in the sport. The team clinched its first-ever Olympic gold medal in 1928, paving the way for many more triumphs in subsequent Olympics. Dhyan Chand emerged as the star with 15 goals.Singh believes that high-profile matches should be hosted at various venues across the country, giving people from all regions a chance to witness the team live in action and grow the following for the sport.

Harmilan Bains, a renowned Indian middle-distance runner, has faced adversity with resilience and determination. After an undefeated 2021 season, she underwent knee surgery that sidelined her for 10 months. Upon her return, she triumphed with silver medals in the 800m and 1500m at the 2022 Asian Games.Despite her past success, Bains experienced a setback when she failed to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This led to a period of depression and suicidal thoughts. However, she drew strength from her situation and shared an inspiring message for young athletes."Enjoy your sport, don't be stressed," Bains advised. "I was under stress after missing my Olympics. I was almost in depression. Thoughts were coming in my mind, like suicide and just quitting everything, run away from my city."Bains emphasized the importance of parental support and encouraged youngsters to pursue their passions without excessive pressure. "My message to the parents is to let your child do whatever they want to and to the youngsters it is never too late to change your sport, your profession just enjoy whatever it is you're doing," she said.As a guest of honor at the 63rd Subroto Cup Junior Boys tournament, Bains praised the event for its contribution to grassroots football development. "I would like to thank the Air Force for bringing me out here as I am enjoying a lot and it's a really good opportunity for the athletes to perform at such a platform at such a young age," she added.Manipur's T.G English School emerged victorious in the tournament, defeating Meghalaya's Myngken Christian Higher Secondary School in a sudden death tie-breaker.Bains also celebrated the remarkable performance of the Indian contingent at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. India surpassed its previous record of 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics, winning 29 medals and finishing 18th in the medal tally. "I am so happy for the para-athletes and it was the first time India ranked so high in the medal tally," Bains concluded.

Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, is fighting for her life in a Kenyan hospital after suffering severe burns in a horrific incident of gender-based violence. According to police reports, her Kenyan partner, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, allegedly doused her with petrol and set her ablaze on Sunday afternoon.The incident occurred at Cheptegei's home in Endebess, Trans-Nzoia County, while she and her children were attending church. Marangach reportedly snuck into the house and carried out the attack. Neighbors rushed to the scene and rescued the couple, who were then taken to Kitale County Referral Hospital with multiple burns.Cheptegei's condition is critical, with facial burns and bandages. She has been transferred to the intensive care unit at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH). Marangach also sustained injuries in the incident.The police report indicates that Cheptegei and Marangach were a couple with a history of domestic disputes. Local media reports suggest that Cheptegei had purchased land and built a house in Trans-Nzoia, near the Ugandan border.Cheptegei, a long-distance runner, represented Uganda in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, finishing 44th. The Ugandan Athletics Federation expressed its shock and sadness over the incident, stating that Cheptegei had suffered severe injuries.The assault on Cheptegei highlights the alarming prevalence of gender-based violence in Kenya. A report by the Kenyan Bureau of National Statistics found that 34% of women in the country have experienced physical violence since the age of 15. Married women are particularly vulnerable, with 41% reporting incidents compared to 20% of unmarried women.This incident follows the tragic deaths of other Kenyan athletes in recent years. In 2021, record-breaking runner Agnes Tirop was found stabbed to death at her home in Iten. Her estranged husband is currently on trial for her murder. In 2020, Kenyan-born athlete Damaris Mutua was found dead in Iten.The attack on Cheptegei has sent shockwaves through the sports community and beyond. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address gender-based violence and protect women from harm.