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World Junior Hockey Sexual Assault Case: Suspensions Extended for 4 Players, Alex Formenton Reinstated
Cricket Aug 12, 2026

World Junior Hockey Sexual Assault Case: Suspensions Extended for 4 Players, Alex Formenton Reinstated

Four former members of Canada’s World Junior hockey team have had their suspensions extended in connection with the widely publicized 2018 sexual assault case, while Alex Formenton has been reinstated.

Hockey Canada’s Independent Appeal Board found the four players responsible for violating the organization’s Code of Conduct. Michael McLeod has received the longest suspension, extended until November 2030. Dillon Dubé will remain suspended until November 2028, Carter Hart until November 2027, and Cal Foote until November 2026.

Formenton, McLeod, Hart, Dubé and Foote had faced charges related to an alleged sexual assault that occurred in 2018. However, on July 24, 2025, the Ontario Superior Court acquitted all five players of all charges.

Hockey Canada said the suspensions are related to violations of its organizational rules and are separate from the criminal proceedings. During their suspensions, the four players will not be permitted to coach teams under Hockey Canada or represent Canada at international tournaments.

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CricketJul 24, 2026

Metro Vancouver set for busy weekend of sports, highlighted by BC Lions' return to BC Place

Metro Vancouver is set to host a full slate of sporting events this weekend, with the BC Lions returning to BC Place Stadium for their first home game after playing away during preparations related to the FIFA World Cup. The Lions will face the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday at 4 p.m. To mark the team's return, a fan pool party will be held on Robson Street beginning at noon ahead of kickoff. Soccer fans will also have several matches to watch. Vancouver FC is scheduled to take on Cavalry FC on Friday at 7 p.m., while Vancouver Rise will host the Halifax Tides on Saturday at 1 p.m. In basketball, the Vancouver Bandits will face the Saskatchewan Rattlers on Saturday at 6 p.m. West Vancouver's Hollyburn Country Club will also host the start of the Odlum Brown VanOpen tennis tournament on Saturday. Wrestling fans can attend BOOM! Pro Wrestling at Vancouver's Commodore Ballroom later that day.
team-canada-crowned-champions-at-the-2026-canada-cup-international-softball-championship
CricketJul 13, 2026

Team Canada crowned champions at the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship

Team Canada completed a remarkable week at the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship on Sunday, scoring five runs in the top of the seventh inning to erase a one-run deficit and defeat Team China 7-3 in the championship game at Softball City. After cruising through round robin and playoff action, Canada faced its toughest test of the tournament in the final. Trailing 3-2 entering the seventh, the Canadians erupted for five runs, highlighted by a three-run home run from Kelsey Harshman, to secure the Canada Cup title in dramatic fashion. Team Canada celebrate the home run from Kelsey Harshman. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)Harshman led the offensive attack with three RBIs, while Emma Entzminger, Grace Messmer, and Harshman each collected two hits. Entzminger's game-tying triple in the fourth inning sparked Canada's comeback before Harshman's late heroics put the championship out of reach. In the circle, Sara Groenewegen started for Team Canada before Morgan Reimer delivered three strong innings of relief, allowing just one hit while striking out three to earn the victory. Canada also played flawless defence, committing no errors in the championship game. Canadian player and Chinese team member seen in action during the championship final. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)With the victory, Team Canada capped an outstanding tournament, finishing undefeated and capturing the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at Softball City. Emma Entzminger reacts after a powerful performance by Team Canada in the championship final at Softball City in Surrey. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)Emma Entzminger, in an interview with News Director Pervez Sandhu said, “I am so proud of this team, and the fight continued going into the 7th inning and I had the belief in the team that we could do it and we sure did.” While talking to Connect FM, Grace Messmer said, “we are happy to be the champions after being the runner-up last year and we are happy to be in front of the home crowd and I am from here and lot of others are too.” Coach Kaleigh Rafter in the post match interview with Connect FM said, "the focus right now is going to be on each tournament at a time, but the 2028 Olympics remain the bigger goal for the team." Click the following links for the video: https://www.tiktok.com/@connec... https://www.facebook.com/reel/... https://www.instagram.com/conn...
canadian-womens-national-team-improved-to-2-0-with-a-7-0-win-over-venezuela
CricketJul 08, 2026

Canadian Women’s National Team improved to 2-0 with a 7-0 win over Venezuela

Team Canada improved to 2-0 at the 2026 Canada Cup with a convincing 7-0 victory over Venezuela on Tuesday at Softball City. Paige Simpson during the match against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Paige Simpson opened the scoring with a two-run single in the second inning before Canada broke the game open in the fourth, highlighted by a three-run home run from Erika Polidori and an RBI double from Emma Entzminger. Morgan Rackel earned the win in the circle, allowing just one hit while striking out six over four scoreless innings. Canada continued its strong all-around play with 10 hits, seven walks and another error-free defensive performance. Emma Entzminger in action during the match against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Entzminger, Grace Messmer and Zoe Hicks each recorded two hits, while Polidori drove in three runs. Team Canada returns to action Wednesday evening when they face New Zealand at 6:15 p.m. at Softball City.Erika Polidori smiles while completing a run during the game against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Team Canada had earlier beaten Team Brazil in it's first game on Monday. Team Canada had finished as runner-up in the tournament in 2025 after finishing as champions in the tournament with an unbeaten run in 2024. Upcoming Team Canada Schedule: Wednesday, July 8th – New Zealand vs Canada – 615PM Thursday, July 9th – Czechia vs Canada – 1PM Thursday, July 9th – Canada vs China – 6PM Friday, July 10th – Canada vs Chinese Taipei Development – 6PM
CricketJul 06, 2026

Canada's historic FIFA World Cup run ends with 3–0 Round of 16 loss to Morocco

Canada's historic FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end after a 3–0 defeat to Morocco in the Round of 16, marking the conclusion of the country's deepest-ever run at the FIFA World Cup. The first half remained scoreless as both teams created opportunities but failed to break the deadlock. Canada generated several early scoring chances, including four promising attacks within the opening 25 minutes, but Morocco's goalkeeper and defensive unit kept the match level. Morocco took control early in the second half when Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring in the 50th minute to give his side a 1–0 lead. Morocco doubled its advantage in the 82nd minute before Soufiane Rahimi added a third goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time to seal the victory. The result eliminates Canada from the tournament. Despite the defeat, the co-host nation achieved a historic milestone by reaching the Round of 16 for the first time in its FIFA World Cup history, representing the country's best-ever performance at the tournament.

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CricketAug 12, 2026

World Junior Hockey Sexual Assault Case: Suspensions Extended for 4 Players, Alex Formenton Reinstated

Four former members of Canada’s World Junior hockey team have had their suspensions extended in connection with the widely publicized 2018 sexual assault case, while Alex Formenton has been reinstated. Hockey Canada’s Independent Appeal Board found the four players responsible for violating the organization’s Code of Conduct. Michael McLeod has received the longest suspension, extended until November 2030. Dillon Dubé will remain suspended until November 2028, Carter Hart until November 2027, and Cal Foote until November 2026. Formenton, McLeod, Hart, Dubé and Foote had faced charges related to an alleged sexual assault that occurred in 2018. However, on July 24, 2025, the Ontario Superior Court acquitted all five players of all charges. Hockey Canada said the suspensions are related to violations of its organizational rules and are separate from the criminal proceedings. During their suspensions, the four players will not be permitted to coach teams under Hockey Canada or represent Canada at international tournaments.
CricketJul 24, 2026

Metro Vancouver set for busy weekend of sports, highlighted by BC Lions' return to BC Place

Metro Vancouver is set to host a full slate of sporting events this weekend, with the BC Lions returning to BC Place Stadium for their first home game after playing away during preparations related to the FIFA World Cup. The Lions will face the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday at 4 p.m. To mark the team's return, a fan pool party will be held on Robson Street beginning at noon ahead of kickoff. Soccer fans will also have several matches to watch. Vancouver FC is scheduled to take on Cavalry FC on Friday at 7 p.m., while Vancouver Rise will host the Halifax Tides on Saturday at 1 p.m. In basketball, the Vancouver Bandits will face the Saskatchewan Rattlers on Saturday at 6 p.m. West Vancouver's Hollyburn Country Club will also host the start of the Odlum Brown VanOpen tennis tournament on Saturday. Wrestling fans can attend BOOM! Pro Wrestling at Vancouver's Commodore Ballroom later that day.
team-canada-crowned-champions-at-the-2026-canada-cup-international-softball-championship
CricketJul 13, 2026

Team Canada crowned champions at the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship

Team Canada completed a remarkable week at the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship on Sunday, scoring five runs in the top of the seventh inning to erase a one-run deficit and defeat Team China 7-3 in the championship game at Softball City. After cruising through round robin and playoff action, Canada faced its toughest test of the tournament in the final. Trailing 3-2 entering the seventh, the Canadians erupted for five runs, highlighted by a three-run home run from Kelsey Harshman, to secure the Canada Cup title in dramatic fashion. Team Canada celebrate the home run from Kelsey Harshman. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)Harshman led the offensive attack with three RBIs, while Emma Entzminger, Grace Messmer, and Harshman each collected two hits. Entzminger's game-tying triple in the fourth inning sparked Canada's comeback before Harshman's late heroics put the championship out of reach. In the circle, Sara Groenewegen started for Team Canada before Morgan Reimer delivered three strong innings of relief, allowing just one hit while striking out three to earn the victory. Canada also played flawless defence, committing no errors in the championship game. Canadian player and Chinese team member seen in action during the championship final. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)With the victory, Team Canada capped an outstanding tournament, finishing undefeated and capturing the 2026 Canada Cup International Softball Championship in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at Softball City. Emma Entzminger reacts after a powerful performance by Team Canada in the championship final at Softball City in Surrey. (Photo - Lathanuel Photography)Emma Entzminger, in an interview with News Director Pervez Sandhu said, “I am so proud of this team, and the fight continued going into the 7th inning and I had the belief in the team that we could do it and we sure did.” While talking to Connect FM, Grace Messmer said, “we are happy to be the champions after being the runner-up last year and we are happy to be in front of the home crowd and I am from here and lot of others are too.” Coach Kaleigh Rafter in the post match interview with Connect FM said, "the focus right now is going to be on each tournament at a time, but the 2028 Olympics remain the bigger goal for the team." Click the following links for the video: https://www.tiktok.com/@connec... https://www.facebook.com/reel/... https://www.instagram.com/conn...
canadian-womens-national-team-improved-to-2-0-with-a-7-0-win-over-venezuela
CricketJul 08, 2026

Canadian Women’s National Team improved to 2-0 with a 7-0 win over Venezuela

Team Canada improved to 2-0 at the 2026 Canada Cup with a convincing 7-0 victory over Venezuela on Tuesday at Softball City. Paige Simpson during the match against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Paige Simpson opened the scoring with a two-run single in the second inning before Canada broke the game open in the fourth, highlighted by a three-run home run from Erika Polidori and an RBI double from Emma Entzminger. Morgan Rackel earned the win in the circle, allowing just one hit while striking out six over four scoreless innings. Canada continued its strong all-around play with 10 hits, seven walks and another error-free defensive performance. Emma Entzminger in action during the match against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Entzminger, Grace Messmer and Zoe Hicks each recorded two hits, while Polidori drove in three runs. Team Canada returns to action Wednesday evening when they face New Zealand at 6:15 p.m. at Softball City.Erika Polidori smiles while completing a run during the game against Venezuela. (Photo credits - Lathanuel Photography)Team Canada had earlier beaten Team Brazil in it's first game on Monday. Team Canada had finished as runner-up in the tournament in 2025 after finishing as champions in the tournament with an unbeaten run in 2024. Upcoming Team Canada Schedule: Wednesday, July 8th – New Zealand vs Canada – 615PM Thursday, July 9th – Czechia vs Canada – 1PM Thursday, July 9th – Canada vs China – 6PM Friday, July 10th – Canada vs Chinese Taipei Development – 6PM
CricketJul 06, 2026

Canada's historic FIFA World Cup run ends with 3–0 Round of 16 loss to Morocco

Canada's historic FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end after a 3–0 defeat to Morocco in the Round of 16, marking the conclusion of the country's deepest-ever run at the FIFA World Cup. The first half remained scoreless as both teams created opportunities but failed to break the deadlock. Canada generated several early scoring chances, including four promising attacks within the opening 25 minutes, but Morocco's goalkeeper and defensive unit kept the match level. Morocco took control early in the second half when Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring in the 50th minute to give his side a 1–0 lead. Morocco doubled its advantage in the 82nd minute before Soufiane Rahimi added a third goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time to seal the victory. The result eliminates Canada from the tournament. Despite the defeat, the co-host nation achieved a historic milestone by reaching the Round of 16 for the first time in its FIFA World Cup history, representing the country's best-ever performance at the tournament.
CricketJul 02, 2026

Toronto hosts final FIFA World Cup match as Portugal faces Croatia; Vancouver stages first knockout game

Toronto will host its sixth and final FIFA World Cup match on Thursday as Portugal takes on Croatia in a Round of 32 fixture at BMO Stadium. The match is expected to mark the final World Cup appearance for two of football's most accomplished players. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, has previously said this will be his last FIFA World Cup. Croatia captain Luka Modrić, 40, has also been widely reported to be considering retirement from international football following the tournament, although no official announcement has been made. According to the FIFA World Cup schedule, the day's second Round of 32 match will be played at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, where Switzerland will face Algeria. It will be the first knockout-stage World Cup match hosted in Vancouver. Switzerland advanced to the Round of 32 after finishing first and unbeaten in Group B. Algeria qualified after finishing third in Group J. Switzerland previously played at BC Place on June 24, defeating Canada 2–1 during the group stage, while Thursday's match will mark Algeria's first World Cup game on Canadian soil.
CricketJun 09, 2026

Report Says Somali Referee Denied Entry to U.S. Days Before FIFA World Cup 2026

A new controversy has emerged ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with reports that some football officials and staff have faced extended questioning and travel difficulties at U.S. airports in the days leading up to the tournament. The latest case involves Omar Abdulkadir Artan, a Somali international referee and one of Africa's prominent match officials. According to reports, Artan was denied entry into the United States upon arrival at Miami International Airport and was subsequently returned to Istanbul. Reports indicate that Artan was travelling on a diplomatic passport. However, U.S. authorities have not publicly explained the reasons for the decision, and no official statement detailing the circumstances has been released. The incident comes amid broader concerns related to travel arrangements and logistics ahead of the World Cup, which is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The reported denial of entry has prompted questions within football circles about access and travel procedures for tournament-related personnel.
CricketJun 08, 2026

Vancouver ranked top host city for FIFA World Cup 2026

Vancouver has been ranked the best host city among the 16 cities set to stage matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026, according to a ranking published by U.S.-based sports magazine Sports Illustrated. The publication cited Vancouver’s public transit network, walkability and moderate climate as key factors behind its top placement. Seattle ranked second on the list, while Toronto placed third. According to the ranking, Vancouver may also be a more affordable destination for fans travelling from the United States and Europe because the Canadian dollar remains weaker than the U.S. dollar and the euro. Sports Illustrated placed San Francisco at the bottom of the rankings, citing the distance between the host stadium and the city's downtown core as a significant drawback for visitors. Meanwhile, FIFA has reversed a previously announced ban on reusable water bottles inside stadiums during tournament matches. The change affects fan access policies as organizers continue preparations for the 2026 event.
CricketJun 08, 2026

Alberta funds five major sporting events, with four scheduled in Edmonton region

The Alberta government has announced funding for five major sporting events taking place across the province this year, including four events scheduled in Edmonton and surrounding communities. According to the provincial government, $1.3 million has been provided through the Alberta Major Sport Event Grant Program to support national and international competitions. The funding also includes support for seven sporting events that were held earlier this year. Upcoming events receiving support include the North American Cup Series from June 26 to 28, the Edmonton Athletics Invitational on July 12, the U17 Women’s Canadian Fast Pitch Championship in Calgary from July 29 to Aug. 2, and the Canadian BMX Championship in St. Albert on Aug. 29 and 30. The province says more than 12,000 athletes, coaches, officials and spectators are expected to attend the events. Officials say the competitions are expected to generate economic activity while supporting sport development and tourism in host communities.

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FootballJul 29, 2026

More than 20,000 FIFA World Cup visitor visa applications refused by Canada, IRCC confirms

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that more than 20,000 visitor visa applications submitted by foreign nationals seeking to attend FIFA World Cup matches in Canada were refused. According to IRCC, 13 FIFA World Cup matches were held in Toronto and Vancouver during June and July. Approximately 26,000 visitor visas were approved for the tournament, including visas issued to individuals invited by FIFA to work at the event. During the same period, the department refused 20,845 visitor visa applications and also denied 205 electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) applications from travellers who would otherwise have been visa exempt. IRCC data also shows that visitor visa refusal rates were significantly higher than approval rates for applicants from India and Pakistan. According to the department, 2,000 applications from Indian nationals were refused, while 665 were approved. For Pakistani applicants, 2,245 visitor visa applications were refused and 195 were approved. The figures cover applications submitted between Nov. 14, 2025, and May 31, 2026, specifically for travel related to the FIFA World Cup.
FootballJul 23, 2026

175 FIFA Club World Cup visitors file asylum claims in Canada, IRCC says

A number of foreign visitors who travelled to Canada during the FIFA Club World Cup have filed asylum claims after arriving in the country, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC said that as of July 20, a total of 175 people had submitted refugee protection claims after indicating on their visitor visa applications that they were travelling to Canada for the FIFA Club World Cup. The department said the number could increase as additional claims are processed. Canada issued approximately 26,000 visitor visas for the 13 tournament matches held in Toronto and Vancouver during June and July. According to IRCC, the largest number of asylum claimants were from Ghana, with 25 claims. Ghana's national team played a match in Toronto on June 17. The department also reported 15 claims each from citizens of Egypt and Colombia, and 10 from Senegal. IRCC data also shows asylum claims were filed by nationals of Pakistan, Kenya, China, Bangladesh and Nigeria, even though those countries did not have teams participating in the tournament. The department did not specify how many of the claimants were football players or members of team support staff. Before the tournament, IRCC said it had increased scrutiny of visitor visa applications to help prevent misuse of the immigration system. The department confirmed that some visa applications were refused as part of that screening process.
surrey-fan-zones-draw-more-than-175-000-visitors-during-fifa-world-cup-2026
FootballJul 20, 2026

Surrey fan zones draw more than 175,000 visitors during FIFA World Cup 2026

More than 175,000 people attended the City of Surrey's free FIFA World Cup 2026 fan zones over six weeks this summer, making them the largest public celebration in the city's history, according to the municipality. The city said the fan zone program began on June 12 at Surrey Civic Plaza with Canada's opening World Cup match. More than 100 matches were broadcast live across four locations: Surrey Civic Plaza, Cloverdale Agriplex, South Surrey Athletic Park and Holland Park. Mayor Brenda Locke said the fan zones gave residents and visitors an opportunity to experience the tournament without needing match tickets. She credited the strong turnout to community participation and the collaboration of local partners, volunteers and event organizers. According to the City of Surrey, the fan zones also featured food trucks, family activities, live entertainment from more than 75 local performers and exhibits by more than 50 community organizations. More than 250 volunteers helped support the events, with additional support provided by the Government of British Columbia.
FootballJul 16, 2026

Argentina defeats England to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 final

Defending champions Argentina secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after defeating England 2–1 in the second semifinal. Argentina will face Spain in the championship match on July 19 in Atlanta. Following the victory, several Argentina players displayed a banner on the field reading, "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" ("The Malvinas/Falkland Islands are Argentine"). The display drew widespread attention on social media, while multiple reports said tensions and scuffles broke out between some Argentina and England supporters. Officials have not released detailed information about the reported incidents. The Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina, are a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean. Sovereignty over the islands has long been disputed, with both Argentina and the United Kingdom claiming them. According to historical records, Argentine forces occupied the Falkland Islands on April 2, 1982. The United Kingdom regained control after a 74-day conflict. Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the islands, while the United Kingdom maintains administrative control.
FootballJul 15, 2026

Reports claim Spain reaches FIFA World Cup 2026 final after victory over France

According to the information provided, Spain has advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after defeating France 2–0 in the tournament's first semifinal at Dallas Stadium. The report says Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scored Spain's goals. The same information claims that following France's defeat, violent clashes and unrest were reported in Paris and several other French cities. However, no official confirmation or details from French authorities were included in the information provided. The second semifinal is scheduled for Wednesday, when defending world champion Argentina will face England at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. According to the report, extensive security measures have been put in place for the match. The information further claims the FBI has identified the fixture as the tournament's highest-risk match. Connect Newsroom has not independently verified this claim.
FootballJul 14, 2026

France, Spain set to meet in FIFA World Cup semifinal with place in final at stake

France and Spain will face off in the first FIFA World Cup semifinal on Tuesday in Texas, with a place in the tournament final on the line. According to FIFA tournament records, both nations are appearing in their 17th FIFA World Cup. Despite their long World Cup histories, this will mark only the second meeting between France and Spain in the competition. France will look to forward Kylian Mbappé to lead its attack. The 2022 World Cup Golden Boot winner has scored eight goals in this tournament and is tied with Lionel Messi in the current scoring race. Mbappé also sits one goal shy of Messi's 21 career World Cup goals. Spain's campaign has been boosted by rising star Lamine Yamal, who has previously played a key role against France in major international tournaments. Yamal scored in Spain's 2-1 victory over France in the UEFA Euro 2024 semifinal. Spain also defeated France 5-4 in the UEFA Nations League semifinal last year. Spain won its only FIFA World Cup title in 2010, while France claimed its second World Cup championship in 2018. Tuesday's winner will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
FootballJul 03, 2026

Portugal, Switzerland advance to FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with knockout victories

Portugal and Switzerland have secured places in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after winning their respective knockout matches played in Canada. At Toronto Stadium, Portugal defeated Croatia 2–1 to advance to the next round. Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos each scored for Portugal, which will now face Spain in the Round of 16 on Monday in Dallas. Croatia's World Cup campaign ended with the defeat, marking another early exit from the tournament. In Vancouver, Switzerland earned a 2–0 victory over Algeria in the Round of 32 at BC Place Stadium. The Swiss side controlled the match from the opening stages and prevented Algeria from mounting a comeback to book its place in the Round of 16. Switzerland will remain in Vancouver to play the winner of the Colombia–Ghana match on July 7. The fixture will be the final FIFA World Cup match played on Canadian soil during the tournament.
FootballJun 29, 2026

Canada Makes History, Becomes First Team to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Canada's national football team has made history by becoming the first team to reach the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. In their final group-stage match on Sunday, Canada defeated a strong South African side 1-0 to book their place in the knockout stage.It is the first time that Canada has won a knockout match at the FIFA World Cup. The Canadian team will now face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match in the pre-quarterfinal on July 4.The thrilling contest at Los Angeles Stadium remained goalless after the regulation 90 minutes, with both teams unable to find the back of the net. However, in the second minute of extra time, Canada's Alistair Johnston struck a stunning goal from outside the box to secure a historic victory for his side.Johnston was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.The victory sparked celebrations across Canada, with football fans expressing their joy and congratulating the team in various ways.
FootballJun 25, 2026

Canada Rejects More Than Half of FIFA World Cup Visa Applications

Canada has rejected more than half of the visa applications submitted by international football fans planning to attend the FIFA World Cup. According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), only 41 per cent of nearly 17,000 visa applications submitted by fans from more than 160 countries between Nov. 14, 2025, and March 31, 2026, were approved. The highest number of applications came from Ghana, whose national team defeated Panama in Toronto on June 17. However, fewer than 11 per cent of the 1,725 visa applications submitted by Ghanaian fans were approved. In contrast, 69 per cent of the 1,630 applications from Colombian fans were approved, even though Colombia did not play any of its group-stage matches in Canada. Meanwhile, all applications from fans in countries eligible for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program, including Australia, Germany, Croatia and New Zealand, were approved. On the other hand, all applications from countries that require visitor visas, such as Syria, Uganda and Sri Lanka, were rejected. Overall, the approval rate for countries requiring visitor visas was just 32 per cent. IRCC said the government has worked to facilitate travel for FIFA fans and players, but emphasized that security standards cannot be compromised. The data does not include American visitors, as U.S. citizens do not require either a visa or an eTA to travel to Canada.

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city-of-delta-celebrates-opening-of-new-delta-secondary-school-track
AthleticsMay 13, 2026

City of Delta celebrates opening of new Delta Secondary School track​ 

On June 2, 2025, the City of Delta, in partnership with the Delta School District and Province of BC, officially opened a new track and infield at Delta Secondary School — a $5 million project funded through the Province’s Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs Growing Communities Fund. The upgraded facility features a six-lane synthetic running surface, new grass infield sized for soccer and rugby, combination rugby/soccer goals, two long jump runways configured for para-athletes, new drainage and irrigation, perimeter lighting, and improved pedestrian access to Memorial Park. Students from Delta Secondary and nearby elementary schools joined Delta Council, Surrey-City Centre MLA Amna Shah, Delta South MLA Ian Paton, school trustees, and Tsawwassen First Nation representatives for the opening. To symbolize “hitting the ground running,” students carried out a baton relay on the new track.    Mayor George V. Harvie said the project underscores Delta’s commitment to community wellness: “This beautiful new track and field is a wonderful amenity for both the school and public. By updating and maintaining these essential community spaces, we provide important resources for everyone to lead an active and healthy lifestyle." High-performance athletics coach and City Councillor Jessie Dosanjh added that the investment will pay dividends for young athletes and the community. Parents and students at the event told Connect FM the new track finally puts Delta on par with neighbouring districts. “Before, our kids were training on a cracked surface. Now they can compete at the highest level,” said one parent. The new facility will be used by both Delta school athletics and community groups, offering year-round access thanks to its synthetic surface and drainage system. Sources: City of Delta, Province of BC announcement, Connect FM on-site reporting, quotes from Mayor Harvie, MLAs, students and parents.
denny-bao-and-juliet-zhang-win-titles-at-surrey-open-tournament
AthleticsMay 13, 2026

Denny Bao and Juliet Zhang win titles at Surrey Open tournament

The Surrey Open tennis tournament concluded Sunday at Newton Athletic Park, showcasing both rising stars and local talent in one of the city’s largest annual sports competitions. In the men’s open category, 19-year-old Denny Bao of Vancouver captured the title with a 6-4, 6-2 win over veteran finalist Henry Ren, who has now reached three consecutive Surrey Open finals. Bao earned the $7,100 top prize, while Ren collected $3,550 as runner-up. The women’s singles final saw Richmond’s Juliet Zhang, 30, defeat 14-year-old newcomer Lyza Dovopol 6-2, 6-1. Zhang said the win was especially meaningful: “To see such young talent like Lyza competing already is inspiring. This tournament is helping grow tennis in BC.” Local players also had their share of success. Newton Tennis Club’s Rajdeep Singh edged out Harpreet Bhagtana in a thrilling 3.0 singles final (6-3, 4-6, 10-7). In the 4.5 singles, Ravneet Gill, 28, defeated Surrey Police Service officer Harman Gosal, 29, with a 7-6, 6-4 victory. Organizer Pavan Sahni told Connect FM the event drew strong participation: “The Surrey Open is about more than titles — it’s about giving local players a stage. Every year we see more registrations, and the community really comes out to support.” Spectators at the finals said they appreciated the chance to see both international-level talent and homegrown players on the same courts. One Delta resident said: “This shows Surrey is not just a soccer or cricket city — tennis is becoming part of our sports culture too.” The Surrey Open, with prize money of $45,000 across divisions, is now regarded as one of BC’s top community tournaments and a stepping stone for young players eyeing national rankings. Sources: On-site reporting by Connect FM News; interviews with players, organizers, and spectators.
AthleticsMay 13, 2026

World relay championship: Canada wins Bronze in women's 4X400m

Canada's women's team won the bronze medal in the 4x400m relay at the World Athletics Relay Championships in Botswana. The team also qualified for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing. The Punjabi-origin runner from Delta, Jasneet Nijjar was also a part of this medal winning team. The team of Zoe Sherar, Lauren Gale, Jasneet Nijjar and Savannah Sutherland won the bronze medal with a timing of 3 minutes 22.66 seconds. After the medal-winning performance, Zoe Sherar said that the team's goal was to compete better and give a tough fight to the other teams, and the team was confident of winning a medal. City Councillor from Delta and coach of Jasneet Nijjar, Jessie Dosanjh, also expressed happiness over the team and especially Jasneet's performance. Savannah Sutherland, who ran fourth for the team, said that the three team members who ran first had done a great job, and she knew that now the responsibility of the medal was on her and she gave it her all for the last lap. Earlier, the team had clocked 3 minutes 23.52 seconds during the heats of the same event, but the team improved its performance even more in the final. Coach Jessie Dosanjh said that Jasneet Nijjar is also very happy with her performance.
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