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The International Monetary Fund has announced that the United Kingdom will grow 0.5 percentage points slower this year than it forecast in January, marking the steepest downgrade among the G7 economies. Against the backdrop of the escalating Iran war, the IMF warned that inflation is climbing toward 4% and that unemployment could hit its highest level in more than ten years, underscoring the widening economic strain on Britain. Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to attend the IMF and World Bank spring meetings in Washington, where she must navigate both the geopolitical fallout of a conflict not of the UK's making and a domestic fiscal squeeze. Even before the war, the UK entered the year with tepid growth, hampered by lingering tax uncertainties and a cost‑of‑living crisis that left households facing the highest inflation rates in the G7. IMF economic counsellor Pierre‑Olivier Gourinchas highlighted that the country's weak outlook is partly a “shadow effect” of its already sluggish growth, compounded by the war’s impact on global energy supplies—the biggest shock since the 1970s. The United Kingdom’s energy mix remains heavily dependent on gas, much of which is now imported at sharply higher market prices. As Gourinchas explained, higher gas costs are being passed through to wholesale energy prices, even though temporary household protections are in place. Reeves has signalled that her immediate priority at the IMF will be to advocate for de‑escalation of the Iran conflict. At the same time, she must contend with a public‑finance situation characterized by elevated debt and rising borrowing costs, limiting the government’s capacity to respond. Given the pressure on consumers and Labour’s lagging poll numbers ahead of the May local elections, the IMF expects the UK to roll out targeted emergency financial support in the short term. Looking further ahead, the fund urges Britain to insulate itself from future energy shocks by accelerating investment in renewable sources and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Matt Crocker, US Soccer’s sporting director, announced his departure on Tuesday, moving to a similar role with the Saudi Arabia football federation with under two months remaining before the 2026 World Cup. US Soccer said the responsibilities formerly held by Crocker will be divided among COO Dan Helfrich, assistant sporting director Oguchi Onyewu, women’s youth national team development head Tracey Kevins, and the broader sporting leadership team. US Soccer CEO JT Batson praised Crocker, stating, “Matt helped guide important steps across our sporting organization, and we’re grateful for his contributions.” He added that the federation remains “well positioned to make the decisions needed in the short, medium, and long term.” Crocker, hired in 2023 after Earnie Stewart left for PSV Eindhoven, arrived with a strong pedigree from English football, having served as technical director at Southampton and later for England (2013‑2020), where he was tasked with modernising the national team’s playing style. During his US tenure, Crocker oversaw all national‑team operations, including youth programmes, and was chiefly responsible for senior‑team coaching appointments. His first high‑profile decision was to re‑hire Gregg Berhalter as USMNT manager after a brief contract lapse and a complex investigation involving player Gio Reyna and past domestic‑violence allegations. Following Berhalter’s second stint, which ended with a group‑stage exit at the 2024 Copa América, Crocker secured Mauricio Pochettino as his successor at the end of 2024. Under Pochettino, the United States have recorded 10 wins, 1 draw, and 7 losses in 16 matches, including recent defeats to Belgium and Portugal in March friendlies. On the women’s side, Crocker recruited Emma Hayes from Chelsea in late 2023 after Vlatko Andonovski’s departure. Hayes guided the USWNT to Olympic gold in 2024 and has the squad positioned as a contender for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Reflecting on his time, Crocker said, “It has been a privilege to be part of US Soccer during such an important period for the sport in this country. I’m grateful for the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with across the federation, from our coaches and players to our technical and administrative staff.” Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s national‑team structure is in flux ahead of its own 2026 World Cup appearance. Reports suggest head coach Hervé Renard may depart, and technical director Nasser Larguet is expected to step down, signalling a broader overhaul of the federation’s leadership.

Luis García, the former Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool player, thought he had left the intense emotions of football behind when he retired in 2016. However, while watching his current club, Johor Darul Ta'zim, celebrate a historic win in Malaysia, he found himself overcome with emotion. "I was always very competitive and once I had left football, I thought I wasn’t going to have those feelings I had before," García says. "I still enjoy football, still play seven-a-side with my friends – every Saturday at 10am, Los Jareños Club de Futbol – but I thought I had lost that and it wasn’t coming back. In fact, I was trying to avoid it; I didn’t want it. So when it happened, it surprised me. I didn’t expect football to give me that again. But there I was, crying."García is now the chief executive of Johor Darul Ta'zim, a Malaysian club that has made history by reaching the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League. He credits the club's success to its strong structure, including coaches, analysis, assistants, fitness staff, and a digital team.The club's owner, Tunku Ismail Idris, the crown prince of Malaysia, has been instrumental in its growth, taking the team to 12 league titles. García says that Idris is "very active, inquisitive" and has a good understanding of the game.García's role as CEO involves implementing the club's vision, finding ways to improve, and liaising with the operations manager. He also travels with the sporting director to scout players and has been involved in school visits and hospital engagements.The team's success has been built on a strong squad, including Australians, New Zealanders, Americans, Koreans, Portuguese, Spaniards, Argentinians, Brazilians, a Colombian, and the former Wolves midfielder Hong Wan. Arif Aiman, a Malaysian player, has been described by García as "the pearl of Malaysia" due to his quick skills, goal-scoring ability, and potential to play in Europe.

George Steinbrenner, the legendary owner of the New York Yankees, left an indelible mark on baseball during his tumultuous reign. Known as 'The Boss,' Steinbrenner purchased the Yankees in 1973 for $8.8 million and went on to build a dynasty that won seven World Series championships under his watch.Steinbrenner's tenure was marked by both remarkable success and controversy. He was suspended from baseball twice - once for illegal campaign contributions to Richard Nixon and again for paying a gambler to discredit Yankees star Dave Winfield. Despite these setbacks, Steinbrenner continued to shape the Yankees into a formidable team, with stars like Reggie Jackson and Derek Jeter leading the charge.The book, which draws from Vaccaro's extensive experience covering the Yankees, offers a nuanced portrayal of Steinbrenner's complex personality and his relationships with key figures like Billy Martin, who served as Yankees manager during five separate stints. Vaccaro also explores the contributions of other influential Yankees executives, including Gabe Paul and Gene 'Stick' Michael, who played crucial roles during Steinbrenner's periods of exile from baseball.Under Steinbrenner's leadership, the Yankees entered into lucrative partnerships, including the creation of the YES Network, and secured a new stadium, which has helped maintain the team's value at an estimated $7 billion to $10 billion. Despite the team's recent struggles, including a championship drought since 2009, Steinbrenner's legacy continues to shape the Yankees' identity and influence.Vaccaro notes that Yankees fans remain passionate and spoiled by the team's past successes, with some expressing concerns about the current leadership under Hal Steinbrenner, George's son, and the team's management, including Brian Cashman and Aaron Boone. However, Vaccaro suggests that the modern baseball landscape is inherently unpredictable, making it challenging for any team to sustain long-term dominance.

Match details: Atletico Madrid will meet Barcelona on Tuesday at 21:00 CET (19:00 GMT) in the Metropolitano Stadium for the Champions League quarter‑final second leg. The fixture decides which side advances to the semi‑finals. After a 2‑0 first‑leg triumph at Camp Nou, Atletico enter the tie as favourites despite trailing Barcelona in the La Liga table. Their advantage stems from goals by Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sörloth, who capitalised on a red card for Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi. Barcelona, the reigning Spanish champions, are desperate to overturn the deficit. They bolstered their domestic campaign with a 4‑1 win over Espanyol, extending their lead over Real Madrid to nine points. Ferran Torres netted a brace, assisted by teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal, while Marcus Rashford added the fourth. Atletico’s weekend league performance was less convincing, suffering a 2‑1 loss to Sevilla after heavy rotation by Diego Simeone. The loss left them fourth in La Liga with 57 points, four behind Villarreal. Historical context: The two clubs have met 251 times, with Barcelona winning 115 matches, Atletico 79 and 57 draws. Their recent knockout encounters include Atletico’s victories in the 2014 and 2016 quarter‑finals, both decided over two legs. Team news: Atletico will miss Marc Pubill (suspension) and have Jose Giménez, Pablo Barrios and David Hancko listed as doubtful. Barcelona’s defender Pau Cubarsi is suspended, replaced by Ronald Araujo. Injuries rule out Marc Bernal, Raphinha and Andreas Christensen. Predicted line‑ups: Atletico – Musso; Molina, Le Normand, Lenglet, Ruggeri; Llorente, Koke; Simeone, Griezmann, Lookman; Alvarez.Barcelona – Joan Garcia; Koundé, Araujo, Martín, Cancelo; Eric Garcia, Pedri; Yamal, Fermin, Rashford; Lewandowski. Managerial insights: Simeone stressed the need to stay focused on the objective of advancing, while Barcelona coach Hansi Flick highlighted the quality of his squad and the importance of collective effort. With a slim margin separating the sides, the second leg promises a tactical battle that could see either club secure a coveted place in the Champions League semi‑finals.

U.S. President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Pope Leo XIV on Sunday night, branding the pontiff “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.” The criticism was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account, where he asserted he does not want a Pope who “criticises the President of the United States.” The outburst appears to be a direct response to recent statements by Pope Leo that condemned the United States’ involvement in the Israel‑Iran conflict. Last week, the Pope issued a rare rebuke of Trump’s threat to eradicate Iranian civilisation, calling the threat “truly unacceptable.” On Sunday, he further urged world leaders to halt ongoing bloodshed, describing the war‑driving mindset as a “delusion of omnipotence.” Trump’s post also referenced the Pope’s earlier questioning of the administration’s hard‑line immigration stance, noting the pontiff’s remark that such policies might not be “pro‑life.” In his response, Trump demanded that Leo “use common sense,” stop “catering to the radical left,” and focus on being a “great Pope, not a politician.” Adding a personal jab, Trump claimed credit for the Vatican’s selection of the first U.S.-born Pope, suggesting the election was intended to curry favour with the White House. “If I wasn’t in the White House, Leo wouldn’t be in the Vatican,” he wrote, before reiterating that he is “not a big fan” of the pontiff, accusing him of “liking crime” and labeling him “very liberal.” The tension echoes past friction between Trump and the Vatican, notably with Pope Francis, who had previously criticized the president’s immigration proposals and questioned his Christian credentials. Despite the diplomatic spat, Pope Leo is scheduled to commence an 11‑day African tour on Monday, beginning with a historic visit to Muslim‑majority Algeria.

A French court has fined Lafarge, a French cement maker, more than €1m (£870,000) and sentenced its former boss, Bruno Lafont, to six years in prison for paying protection money to Islamic State and other terror groups to maintain its business in war-torn Syria from 2013 to 2014.The ruling follows a 2022 case in the United States in which Lafarge pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to US-designated “terrorist” organisations and agreed to pay a $778m fine (£580m). This was the first time a company had faced the charge.The Paris court found that Lafarge, which is now part of the Swiss conglomerate Holcim, paid nearly €5.6m via its subsidiary Lafarge Cement Syria (LCS) to terror groups and intermediaries to keep its plant operating in northern Syria.The company’s former chief executive, Bruno Lafont, was sentenced to six years in prison for financing terrorism, which a judge ordered him to start serving immediately. Lafont’s lawyer said he would appeal.The presiding judge, Isabelle Prevost-Desprez, said: “This method of financing terrorist organisations, and primarily IS, was essential in enabling the terrorist organisation to gain control of Syria’s natural resources, allowing it to finance terrorist acts within the region and those planned abroad, particularly in Europe.”Lafarge established a “genuine commercial partnership with IS”, she said, which added to the “extreme gravity of the offences”.Lafarge had finished building a $680m factory in Jalabiya in 2010, just before Syria’s civil war erupted in March the following year amid opposition to the brutal repression of anti-government protests by the then president, Bashar al-Assad.While other multinational companies left Syria in 2012, Lafarge evacuated only its expatriate employees and left its Syrian staff in place until September 2014, when IS seized control of the factory.In 2013 and 2014, LCS paid intermediaries to access raw materials from the Islamic State organisation and other groups and to allow free movement for the company’s trucks and employees. It paid groups including Islamic State and Syria’s then al-Qaida affiliate Jabhat al-Nusra.

Marie‑Louise Eta will take the touchline for Union Berlin’s upcoming Bundesliga match against Wolfsburg, becoming the first woman to coach a men’s team in one of Europe’s top‑five leagues. The 34‑year‑old was promoted on an interim basis after the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart, who was sacked following a 3‑1 defeat to bottom‑placed Heidenheim.Union sit seven points clear of the relegation‑playoff zone with five games remaining, but a dismal run of two wins in 14 matches has left the club teetering near the drop‑zone. Club officials turned to Eta, citing her continuity and proven tactical acumen, to halt the slide.Eta’s appointment is the latest milestone in a rapid rise through Union’s ranks. In the 2023‑24 season she became the Bundesliga’s first female assistant manager under Nenad Bjelica, and earlier in 2024 she briefly commanded the men’s side, overseeing a win, a draw and a loss while Bjelica served a suspension. Her prior success with Union’s under‑19 men’s squad further cemented her reputation as a forward‑thinking coach.Speaking in a 2023 interview, Eta emphasized that she wants to “convince with quality and substance” rather than rely on tokenism. Former England women’s manager Sarina Wiegman hailed her as a “trailblazer”, noting that such progress reflects football’s broader societal shift toward gender equality.Germany is already seeing more women in senior coaching roles: Sabrina Wittmann leads third‑tier side FC Ingolstadt, while Corinne Diacre previously managed Ligue 2 club Clermont Foot in France. In England, Hannah Dingley made history as caretaker of Forest Green Rovers before moving to Manchester City’s academy.Eta’s current stint with the men’s team is expected to be short‑lived. She has already signed a contract to become head coach of Union Berlin’s women’s side next season, where she will continue to develop talent in the Frauen‑Bundesliga. Nonetheless, her presence on the technical area this weekend offers a powerful visual for aspiring female coaches worldwide.Social media reactions have been mixed. While a minority of users resorted to sexist trolling, Union’s official X account defended Eta vigorously, dubbing her a “football goddess” and firing back at detractors. Eta, a former Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam, said she draws motivation from messages sent by young women and girls she has inspired.The upcoming match will not only test Union Berlin’s fight against relegation but also serve as a symbolic moment in the ongoing effort to break the “grass ceiling” in professional football.

For the first time, thousands of cancer patients from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds will benefit from an enhanced genetic test offered by the NHS. The new screening expands the panel of DPYD gene variants from four to five, directly addressing a long‑standing bias that left non‑white patients vulnerable to dangerous chemotherapy side‑effects. In England, patients slated for chemotherapy undergo a genetic check that can guide dose adjustments and mitigate adverse reactions such as mouth sores, hair loss, nausea, fatigue, and, in severe cases, death. Up to 40% of the 38,000 individuals receiving fluoropyrimidine‑based chemotherapy each year experience a harmful drug reaction. Previously, the test only targeted four DPYD variants common in people of European descent, meaning many Black patients received inaccurate “all‑clear” results. The addition of a fifth variant—more prevalent among African, Caribbean and other minority groups—means clinicians can now identify patients at risk who were previously missed. Since its rollout at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust last September, three minority‑ethnic patients have had their initial chemotherapy doses adjusted, lowering their chance of a potentially fatal reaction. Dr Veline L’Esperance, senior clinical adviser at the NHS Race and Health Observatory, called the change “tangible results for patients who have historically been left behind.” She emphasized that the update shifts the discussion on ethnic health inequality from rhetoric to actionable care. Prof Habib Naqvi, chief executive of the NHS Race and Health Observatory, described the development as a “groundbreaking outcome” for chemotherapy safety, while noting that ethnic minorities remain under‑represented in genomic research and biobanks. He warned that broader inclusion is essential for the promised benefits of precision medicine to reach all communities. Prof Dame Sue Hill, chief scientific officer for NHS England, highlighted the significance of discovering the fifth variant: “Personalising chemotherapy based on genetics can save lives and reduce harmful side‑effects, especially for patients of African ancestry.” She added that the North West NHS Genomic Medicine Service has already demonstrated the practical impact of this approach. These steps come amid broader evidence that minority patients in the UK face longer diagnostic waits, more GP visits before a cancer diagnosis, and lower perceived support during treatment. The expanded DPYD test represents a concrete effort to close those gaps and ensure equitable, science‑driven care for all cancer patients.