QtrendsSCMP highlights weekend horse racing at Sha Tin featuring top sprinters and championship trainers. Formula 1 buzzes ahead of Barcelona Grand Prix with McLaren's Norris edging Russell and rookie Antonelli drawing attention. Thomas Partey denied Canadian entry for Ghana's World Cup opener. World Cup fever sweeps Los Angeles amid ticket pricing and Trump-related political controversy. South Korea stages late comeback victory over Czechia on opening day.
The South China Morning Post previews an action-packed weekend at Sha Tin racecourse in Hong Kong. Top sprinters Superb Spirit and Meaningful Dragon headline trainer David Lui's team of 10, while two-time champion trainer John Hayes fields seven entrants including Soleil Fighter. The feature Class Two Peacock Handicap over 1,600 meters highlights the weekend card.
Lando Norris topped Friday practice at Barcelona, narrowly ahead of George Russell. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli struggled with pace but has been a major talking point after his recent surge in form. Russell downplayed title ambitions, calling them 'out of reach,' as pressure mounts within the Mercedes camp. The weekend's Grand Prix promises close competition at the front of the grid.
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was refused entry into Canada and will miss his nation's World Cup opener. FIFA confirmed Partey is also unavailable for Ghana's match against Panama due to visa issues. The incident has drawn significant attention as Ghana prepares for its tournament campaign without one of its key players.
Los Angeles is gripped by World Cup excitement despite controversies over FIFA ticket pricing and Trump administration policies. Critics have labeled the tournament's association with Trump as 'Trumpification,' questioning whether political branding overshadows the sport. The Independent reports growing concern that the president is leveraging the World Cup for political gain amid his re-election campaign.
South Korea mounted a dramatic second-half comeback to defeat Czechia in their World Cup opening match. Trailing after a wasteful first half, Hwang's sublime goal ignited the turnaround before he turned provider for the winner. Korean coach praised the team's resilience, while the Czech boss conceded the better side prevailed despite leading for much of the match.