Eben Etzebeth, a South African rugby player, received a 12-week ban for eye-gouging a Welsh player during a recent match. This was his first red card in 141 international games, and as a result, he will miss several club matches.
Key Facts
Eben Etzebeth plays for South Africa and has won two World Cups.
He was banned for 12 weeks due to an eye-gouging incident against a Welsh player named Alex Mann.
The incident happened in a match between South Africa and Wales, which South Africa won 73-0.
Etzebeth received a red card in the 79th minute of the game.
This ban means he will miss club matches for Sharks in both the United Rugby Championship and European Champions Cup until March 2026.
It was his first red card in 141 games for South Africa.
An independent panel set an initial penalty of 18 weeks but reduced it to 12 weeks due to his previous good record.
Rugby bans for intentional eye contact can range from 12 weeks to four years.
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The Los Angeles Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, expressed his support for a potential salary cap in Major League Baseball (MLB). As discussions about payroll inequality continue, the league faces possible work stoppage due to upcoming collective bargaining negotiations.
Key Facts
Major League Baseball may face a work stoppage due to upcoming collective bargaining negotiations.
The current agreement between MLB owners and the Players Association is set to expire soon.
The Los Angeles Dodgers recently won their second-straight World Series title.
The Dodgers are known for being one of the biggest spenders in MLB after acquiring Shohei Ohtani.
The issue of payroll inequality is a major discussion point, with large spending teams like the Dodgers compared to smaller market teams.
Dave Roberts, the Dodgers' manager, stated he supports a salary cap if it includes measures to also increase minimum spending for lower-spending teams.
The Dodgers had a luxury tax payroll of $416.8 million last season, significantly higher than other teams.
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Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is working to return from a left elbow injury for the game against the Minnesota Vikings. He participated fully in practice for the first time since his injury. Despite the team's current losing streak, Daniels aims to finish the season positively.
Key Facts
Jayden Daniels plays as the quarterback for the Washington Commanders.
He suffered a left elbow dislocation earlier in the season.
Daniels also dealt with a knee and hamstring injury this year.
The Commanders have lost seven games in a row.
Daniels wants to play in the Week 14 game against the Minnesota Vikings.
He was listed as a full participant in practice for the first time since his elbow injury.
The Commanders' current record stands at 3 wins and 9 losses.
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The article discusses the possibility of Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez leaving the team to join a rival, the Atlanta Braves. It highlights Suárez's strengths as a player and the challenges the Phillies face with their payroll and other key players' contracts.
Key Facts
Ranger Suárez is a starting pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies.
He has an All-Star appearance and a strong performance record in playoff games.
The Phillies have to manage contracts for other key players, making it hard to keep Suárez.
The Atlanta Braves are predicted to sign Suárez to strengthen their rotation.
Suárez has a low 1.48 earned run average (ERA) in playoff games, meaning he allows very few runs.
The Braves have had many injuries in their pitching rotation recently, increasing their need for a player like Suárez.
The Braves historically do not spend much on veteran pitchers, which could affect their decision.
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Grant Hartwig, a right-handed pitcher, was released by the New York Mets after struggling with his performance. He played in Japan for a while and has now signed a minor-league deal with the Minnesota Twins. Hartwig is trying to join the Twins' bullpen for the upcoming season.
Key Facts
Grant Hartwig is a right-handed pitcher who used to play for the New York Mets.
He joined the Mets as an undrafted free agent in 2021 and debuted in the major leagues in 2023.
Hartwig pitched 42 innings in the major leagues with a 5.14 ERA.
The Mets released him after he spent three months in their Triple-A team.
Hartwig played for the Hanshin Tigers in Japan last season, earning a 3.65 ERA in their major league and 2.25 ERA in their minor league equivalent.
He has signed a minor-league contract with the Minnesota Twins.
Hartwig is entering his age-28 season and hopes to be part of the Twins' bullpen.
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The article details a promotional offer for new users who sign up for BetMGM using the bonus code NEWSWEEK1500. The offer provides two different bonuses depending on the user's location, which can be used for betting on the Cowboys-Lions NFL game. The article outlines how to activate these offers and some example bets that can be placed.
Key Facts
BetMGM is offering a special bonus for new users who sign up with the code NEWSWEEK1500.
The promotion offers a $1,500 first bet safety net for most new users, which refunds their stake if their bet loses.
In certain states (Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia), the offer is a $150 bonus for a winning $10 bet.
The BetMGM bonuses are related to the Cowboys-Lions NFL game.
Users can place bets on specifics like player statistics or game outcomes to activate the offers.
The article provides examples of possible bets, including player performance and combined game outcomes.
The offers must be used within one week after activation.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through the links provided in the article.
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The draw for the 2026 World Cup will happen at the Kennedy Center to divide 48 teams into 12 groups. President Donald Trump will attend the event, where they will also award the FIFA Peace Prize. The U.S., Mexico, and Canada are hosting the tournament and are automatically placed in Pot 1, giving them an advantage.
Key Facts
The 2026 World Cup draw takes place on December 5 at the Kennedy Center.
The tournament features 48 teams divided into 12 groups of four.
The top 32 teams will move to the knockout rounds after the group stage.
Teams are selected from four pots based on FIFA rankings.
Host countries U.S., Mexico, and Canada are in Pot 1, avoiding strong competition in their initial group.
Some teams in Pot 4 are currently undetermined and will be decided by playoffs.
Each group must have at least one European team but no more than two.
Teams from the same soccer confederation, except UEFA, cannot be in the same group.
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The article discusses selecting running backs for fantasy football teams during Week 14 of the NFL season. It emphasizes the importance of choosing the right players, such as Bucky Irving, D’Andre Swift, and Kyle Monangai, based on recent performance and upcoming matchups. Fantasy football managers are making tough decisions about which running backs to start.
Key Facts
Fantasy football managers need to choose running backs wisely for Week 14.
Bucky Irving of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers played in 52% of the plays last week, scoring 16.10 fantasy points.
Irving is dealing with a shoulder issue but is expected to play.
D’Andre Swift from the Chicago Bears has been on the field over 50% of the time, with seven touchdowns in 11 games.
Kyle Monangai of the Bears has been scoring well recently, despite limited earlier opportunities.
The New Orleans Saints are average in defending against running backs, with opponents scoring 11 touchdowns.
Green Bay's defense ranks 10th against running backs, limiting them to 3.8 yards per carry.
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The Detroit Lions' top wide receiver, Amon-Ra St. Brown, is dealing with an ankle injury and might miss an upcoming game. To prepare, the team has moved Malik Cunningham from the practice squad. The Lions also made other roster changes due to injuries.
Key Facts
Amon-Ra St. Brown got an ankle injury during a game against the Green Bay Packers.
St. Brown has not participated in practice this week and is listed as questionable for the game against the Dallas Cowboys.
The Lions elevated Malik Cunningham from the practice squad in case St. Brown cannot play.
Brock Wright, a tight end for the Lions, was placed on injured reserve.
The Lions signed Nick Whiteside, a cornerback, from the practice squad.
Malik Cunningham originally played as a quarterback in college and switched to wide receiver in 2024.
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Micah Parsons, a former Penn State football star, voiced his support for interim coach Terry Smith to become the permanent head coach. Penn State is currently searching for a new head coach after firing James Franklin. Smith has become a leading candidate for the position.
Key Facts
Micah Parsons played as a top defensive player at Penn State.
Parsons expressed his opinion that Terry Smith should be the permanent head coach.
Penn State fired head coach James Franklin in the middle of the season.
Franklin has since joined Virginia Tech.
Penn State is actively seeking a new head coach.
Terry Smith is currently acting as the interim coach.
Smith is a strong candidate for the permanent role according to reports.
Current Penn State players also favor Smith for the head coach position.
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The Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions are playing a crucial game as they compete for a playoff spot. The Lions are slightly favored to win. Key players like Jameson Williams of the Lions and Javonte Williams of the Cowboys have notable expectations in the game.
Key Facts
The Dallas Cowboys (6-5-1) are playing against the Detroit Lions (7-5).
The game is important for both teams as they aim to secure a wild-card spot in the playoffs.
The Lions are 3.5-point favorites in betting odds.
Jameson Williams is expected to be a key player for the Lions, especially with injuries affecting other wide receivers.
Javonte Williams of the Cowboys is likely to face challenges, as the Lions have a strong defense against the run.
The Cowboys have strengthened after adding players Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson.
The Lions have gone 3-4 after starting the season with a 4-1 record.
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Max Verstappen is close to becoming a five-time world champion in Formula 1. He has made a strong comeback this season, moving from 104 points behind to just 12 points shy of the leader. Verstappen credits his success to his determination and Red Bull's improvements.
Key Facts
Max Verstappen is competing in a close three-way race for the Formula 1 championship.
Eight races ago, Verstappen was 104 points behind the championship leader.
As of now, he is 12 points behind the current leader, Lando Norris.
Verstappen attributes his competitiveness to his determination and Red Bull's progress.
McLaren's drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, have made errors, helping Verstappen close the gap.
Verstappen won five of the last eight races, finishing second in one and third in two.
He stated he remains focused and isn't affected by competitors' perceptions of him.
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The article discusses England rugby player Henry Pollock, highlighting his unique personality and significant achievements. His England teammate, Jamie George, praises Pollock's energy and confidence, which have made him a standout player in the rugby world.
Key Facts
Henry Pollock is a 20-year-old rugby player for England.
Pollock had a successful season, scoring two tries on his England debut and playing in the Champions Cup final.
He was shortlisted for World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year.
Pollock is known for his energetic play and viral moments, such as participating in a celebratory dance.
Jamie George describes Pollock as a fascinating character and praises his confidence and energy.
George believes the current England team environment allows players like Pollock to express themselves freely.
The article compares England's team environment to the club Saracens, known for fostering supportive settings for players.
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Merab Dvalishvili, the UFC Bantamweight Champion, has improved his relationship with UFC CEO Dana White. He is preparing for a title defense rematch against Petr Yan at UFC 323 and aims to set a record for the most successful title defenses in a single year.
Key Facts
Merab Dvalishvili holds a 21-4 record and is the current UFC Bantamweight Champion.
Dana White, the UFC CEO, had past disagreements with Dvalishvili but their relationship is now better.
Dvalishvili is preparing for a rematch at UFC 323 against Petr Yan, who has a 19-5 record.
Originally, Dana White was upset with Dvalishvili for refusing to fight a friend and for disclosing injuries before fights.
Dvalishvili uses a unique weight-cutting technique, such as smelling pizza while eating vegetables, to maintain his weight class.
He is focused on breaking a record for the most successful title defenses in one year.
Dvalishvili's upcoming fight with Yan is not their first; he won their previous match in 2023.
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Joe Root scored his first century in Australia during an Ashes Test match, which helps England stay competitive in the series. This century ended Root's previous struggle to achieve this milestone in Australia over numerous innings.
Key Facts
Joe Root scored his first Test century in Australia after 12 years and 30 attempts.
The century occurred during the first day of the second Test match in Brisbane.
Root's performance helped England stay in contention in the Ashes series.
This match in Brisbane could give England their first win at that venue since 1986.
Root has been part of 16 winless Tests in Australia since his first tour in 2013-14.
The century improves Root's standing as one of cricket's noteworthy players, gaining him recognition from Australians.
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Jimmy Butler of the Golden State Warriors will not play against the Philadelphia 76ers due to knee soreness. The Warriors face additional injuries with several players, including Steph Curry, also sidelined.
Key Facts
Jimmy Butler will miss the game against the Philadelphia 76ers because of knee soreness.
Butler left a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder with a knee injury.
During that game, Butler played 15 minutes, scored six points, and had three rebounds.
The Warriors lost to the Thunder with a score of 124-112.
Other Warriors players, such as Trayce Jackson-Davis, Jonathan Kuminga, Al Horford, and Quentin Post, are listed as questionable.
Steph Curry is out due to a quad injury and did not travel with the team.
The Warriors' current record is 11-11, placing them eighth in the Western Conference.
The game against the 76ers is scheduled for a 7 PM ET tip-off.
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The San Diego Padres signed pitcher Ty Adcock to a major-league contract for the 2026 season. Adcock previously played for the New York Mets and Seattle Mariners but is expected to strengthen the Padres' bullpen as they anticipate losing their closer.
Key Facts
The Padres signed pitcher Ty Adcock for the 2026 season.
Adcock is 28 years old.
He played for the New York Mets in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Adcock has a 5.48 ERA in major league games.
He was originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 2018 MLB Draft.
Adcock has a 1.04 WHIP and a .227 opponents' batting average.
He became a free agent in October after the Mets moved him to Triple-A Syracuse.
The Padres may need Adcock as they expect to lose their current closer, Robert Suarez, to free agency.
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Lionel Messi shared his thoughts on the main teams likely to do well in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He mentioned Spain, France, England, Brazil, Germany, and his own team, Argentina, as strong contenders. Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami CF, has not yet decided if he will compete in the 2026 World Cup.
Key Facts
Lionel Messi talked about potential favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain, France, England, Brazil, and Germany were among the teams Messi mentioned.
Argentina, where Messi plays internationally, is ranked No. 2 by FIFA.
Spain is currently ranked No. 1 after its success in EURO 2024.
Messi has played in five World Cups and won one in 2022.
He has not confirmed if he will participate in the 2026 World Cup.
The World Cup draw will determine Argentina's initial opponents.
Messi's club, Inter Miami CF, will compete in the MLS Cup against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
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Alabama and Georgia will compete in the SEC Championship Game in Atlanta. Alabama, led by head coach Kalen DeBoer, has never lost to Georgia in this championship game. The game is important for both teams as they aim for the College Football Playoff.
Key Facts
Alabama will face Georgia in the SEC Championship Game.
This is the fifth time Alabama and Georgia meet in this game.
Alabama has won all four previous matchups against Georgia in the SEC Championship.
Alabama's coach, Kalen DeBoer, is not focusing on the College Football Playoff but rather on the upcoming game.
Alabama lost two games this season, while Georgia lost one to Alabama.
Alabama is currently considered a 2.5-point underdog for this game.
The game starts at 4 p.m. EST on ABC.
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The 2026 World Cup draw will take place in Washington, D.C., with a ceremony featuring performances and speeches. The draw involves organizing 48 teams into 12 groups, considering FIFA rankings and special plans for host countries. High-ranked teams like Spain, Argentina, France, and England have special seeding to potentially create important matchups later in the tournament.
Key Facts
The World Cup draw will happen in Washington, D.C., but no matches will be in the city.
The ceremony begins at 17:00 GMT on December 5, 2025.
Hosts Mexico, Canada, and the US are automatically placed in certain positions to play in their home countries.
The event will feature hosts like Heidi Klum, Kevin Hart, and Danny Ramirez.
Performers include Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, and Nicole Scherzinger.
President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino are expected to give speeches.
The draw sorts 48 teams into four pots, considering FIFA rankings and play-off qualifiers.
Special seeding keeps top teams like Spain and Argentina apart to set up potential key games.
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