Thailand uses AI to block 13,888 World Cup gambling links in 18 days
MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2026
Thailand has used AI to block 13,888 illegal World Cup 2026 gambling pages and warned restaurants and venues against unauthorised commercial screenings of live broadcasts.
Merlin the duck becomes Mexico City’s cutest World Cup star
MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2026
Merlin, a calm and camera-friendly duck in a Mexico football jersey, has gone viral on Reforma Avenue in Mexico City, charming World Cup fans and tourists with his colourful style and gentle personality.
World Cup opens under pressure over visas and ticket prices
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2026
The World Cup opens in Mexico City with FIFA trying to shift the spotlight back to football, even as questions over visas, ticket prices and political tensions hang over the tournament
World Cup 2026 sparks global marketing race as brands chase football fans
TUESDAY, JUNE 09, 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has triggered an early marketing battle, with global brands rolling out campaigns across food, beverages, electronics and sportswear as Thai retailers wait for clarity on broadcast rights before launching major promotions.