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Gray whales have historically been a rare sight in the San Francisco Bay. They migrate over 10,000 miles from Mexico's Baja California to the Arctic region, seldom stopping in the busy shipping corridor for prolonged periods. However, in recent years, this has changed in a dire way.A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science has found that gray whales in the bay have been dying at alarming rates, largely due to collisions with vessels. Eastern North Pacific (ENP) gray whales began to appear more frequently in the well-trafficked maritime corridor around 2018.According to researchers, at least 18% of gray whales that entered the bay from 2018 to 2025 have died. They determined that for more than 40% of the whale carcasses, the cause of death was blunt force trauma consistent with vessel strikes, prompting calls for renewed efforts to help avoid more fatal collisions.“It was historically very unusual for them to enter the bay, especially for longer amounts of time or consistently year after year,” said Josie Slaathaug, lead author of the study. There are whale subgroups known to hunt for food south of the Arctic, but a majority of the recently spotted whales feeding in the bay were not a part of these foraging clusters.A wave of new whale presence had not been observed in the waters since the late 1990s. Researchers have theorized that Arctic warming is disrupting food availability for the whales, driving them to hunt in new places such as the bay, although it remains unclear what exactly they may be eating there.Their potential new feeding corner, though, is a major shipping route. The true mortality rate for whales in the bay may be higher, hovering somewhere from 40% to 50%, Slaathaug said.In recent years, there have been several reports of dead whales that wash up on Bay Area beaches. The ENP gray whale population has been in decline due to malnutrition and starvation from climate-driven prey shifts in the Arctic. The Southwest Fisheries Science Center estimated a population total of about 13,000 whales, its lowest count since 1970.“It’s not unique to their migratory corridor that a lot of whales are dying,” Slaathaug said. “What is unique about San Francisco Bay and this study was that there was such a clear emerging cause of death.”Some local efforts are under way to reduce vessel collisions. The Marine Mammal Center has developed a program called Whale Smart, to educate vessel operators in the San Francisco Bay on how to interpret whale behavior to avoid close encounters.In Alaska, where vessels also pose a threat to the whale population, one fleet company partnered with WhaleSpotter, a company that uses AI and thermal imaging to detect the presence of whales, so they can change course well in advance.Last year, the Center for Biological Diversity, a conservation group, sued the US Coast Guard, which regulates vessel traffic off the California coast, for failing to analyze how vessel routes may harm whales and sea turtles.“This most recent study about the gray whales reaffirms that we have way underestimated the problem and we are not managing human activities well enough to avoid the whales,” said Catherine Kilduff, senior attorney at the center.Federal action is needed to reduce the fatal collisions, Kilduff said. According to the Endangered Species Act, the coast guard should be consulting with the National Marine Fisheries Service when setting shipping lanes to assess impact to marine wildlife.Kilduff also suggested mandatory speed limits for vessels. “There are voluntary speed reductions on the west coast, but there is evidence that those aren’t effective. The compliance rate isn’t high enough,” she said.A 2022 study co-authored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that the average speeds of large vessels had decreased from 2010 to 2019 in voluntary speed reduction zones. But, researchers determined that the cooperation rate of roughly 50% was lower than the amount needed to reduce vessel strike-related mortality to a level that maintains a sustainable whale population.“These whales are using the oceans in such a sophisticated way. We can learn so much from them, and if we can figure out ways to avoid killing them, I know that they’ll come back to healthy population levels,” Kilduff said.

The future of the LIV Golf series hangs in the balance after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) signaled a possible withdrawal of its multi‑billion‑dollar support. Executives were summoned to a high‑stakes meeting in New York this week, a development that follows growing speculation that the rebel tour could be shut down. While the fifth season’s sixth event in Mexico City is set to proceed on Thursday, the tournament is being eclipsed by reports that PIF intends to cut the tour’s funding. The tour has already faced challenges securing a merger with the PGA Tour despite a three‑year “framework agreement,” and the funding pull would exacerbate its financial strain. According to the PIF’s newly released five‑year economic strategy, the fund is prioritising sustainable domestic investments and has omitted sport from its seven key focus areas. This shift signals a move away from the “free‑spending, disruptive internationalism” that characterised the launch of LIV Golf in 2021. Since its inception, PIF has poured over $5 bn into the tour, but this year prize money and bonus payouts have already been slashed. High‑profile players such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm, Sergio García and Bryson DeChambeau initially defected from the PGA and DP World Tours, yet recent defections back to the PGA—including Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed—highlight the tour’s precarious position. DeChambeau has yet to sign a new contract. A source familiar with the Saudi Ministry of Sports confirmed that the fund is redirecting its sports budget toward football and esports, with golf no longer a priority. The same source noted that PIF is ending its partnership with the Women’s Tennis Association, and the three‑year WTA Finals deal in Riyadh will not be renewed after its November expiry. The rumours ignited on Tuesday after journalist Ryan French posted on X that multiple sources warned of a “bombshell announcement” on LIV’s future, later suggesting the tour might be shutting down. LIV officials and players have not received any formal update. In Mexico, Sergio García told reporters they have only heard the same message from PIF chief Yasir al‑Rumayyan at the start of the year: that the project is a long‑term commitment, and that rumours are inevitable. Technical glitches, including an alleged power failure at the venue, forced the cancellation of pre‑tournament press conferences on Tuesday. Nevertheless, the pro‑am competition resumed on Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. local time, indicating that day‑to‑day operations continue despite the uncertainty. The outcome of the New York meeting could determine whether LIV Golf survives as a viable alternative to traditional tours or becomes another casualty of shifting Saudi investment priorities.

FIFA, the global governing body of football, is under growing pressure to ask U.S. President Donald Trump for a blanket halt to ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids during the 2026 World Cup. The request, sourced from anonymous contacts cited by The Athletic, would be presented to FIFA president Gianni Infantino for direct delivery to the White House. According to the report, Infantino is weighing a formal appeal that would seek a "full moratorium on ICE raids across the United States during the World Cup" – a tournament set to kick off on June 11 in eleven host cities spanning the United States, Canada and Mexico. The move comes as the Trump administration intensifies its immigration crackdown, tightening legal pathways and expanding deportation efforts. Critics warn that such policies could target the tournament’s massive international audience, undermining the event’s reputation as a celebration of global unity. When asked by Al Jazeera about any negotiations with FIFA, the White House declined to comment but praised the upcoming competition, with spokesperson Davis Ingle stating, "Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history of mankind, right here in the United States of America." He added that the event is expected to generate billions of dollars in economic impact and create hundreds of thousands of jobs. Despite the administration’s enthusiastic rhetoric, officials have hinted that immigration agencies could be present at match venues. In February, ICE acting director Todd Lyons told a House committee that the agency would be on the ground for the World Cup, emphasizing that ICE is "a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup" and would not pause operations. Previous incidents have fueled the concern. During last year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, reports surfaced of ICE and Customs and Border Protection officers at stadiums, although the administration denied any enforcement actions took place. Vice President JD Vance recently warned that visitors must adhere to visa terms, suggesting that those who overstay could be subject to the authority of then‑Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Noem, who was dismissed in March, had overseen a controversial crackdown in Minnesota that resulted in two civilian deaths and drew accusations of human‑rights violations. FIFA executives see a potential immigration moratorium as a public‑relations win for both the sport’s governing body and the Trump administration. The proposal is also viewed as an opportunity for Infantino to leverage his personal rapport with Trump – a relationship that has attracted scrutiny after Infantino awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to the president in December, prompting a rights‑group complaint to FIFA’s ethics committee. With the World Cup fast approaching, fans and human‑rights advocates remain uneasy about whether the United States will provide a "safe and welcome" environment for the influx of international visitors.

Ghana has named Portuguese veteran Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the men’s national team, a move made less than two months before the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced that Queiroz will assume immediate responsibility for the squad’s tournament preparations, working alongside key stakeholders to finalize the roster.“The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA said in an official statement.At 73, Queiroz recently departed his role as Oman’s manager after the side failed to qualify for the World Cup, but his appointment marks his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance, this time guiding Ghana.Ghana found itself without a coach 72 days before the tournament after parting ways with Otto Addo following friendly defeats to Austria and Germany in March.Queiroz’s World Cup résumé includes leading Portugal to the round of 16 in 2010 and steering Iran through three editions, recording three wins in 13 matches.Born in Mozambique, the former goalkeeper has also managed Egypt, Japan, Colombia and South Africa, and previously helmed Portugal in the early 1990s.“This is not just another job – it is a mission,” Queiroz said. “I am ready to give everything of my experience and knowledge once again, in service of the game and the happiness of people.”He was chosen from more than 600 local and foreign applications because of his extensive World Cup experience.Ghana have been drawn into Group L alongside Croatia, England and Panama.The Black Stars will fine‑tune their tactics in warm‑up matches against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2.

On the closing night of Coachella’s opening weekend, Karol G broke new ground as the festival’s first Latina headliner. Introducing herself in English, the Colombian artist announced, “I am Carolina Giraldo from Medellín, Colombia, and today I am the first Latina woman to headline Coachella,” to a roar of cheers from a crowd waving flags from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia and beyond.The moment echoed Beyoncé’s 2018 ‘Beychella’ debut, reminding fans that representation on this stage can reshape cultural narratives. Karol G’s 90‑minute performance combined dazzling costume changes, high‑energy choreography and a stage that seemed to rise two stories above the desert floor, creating a spectacle that felt both meticulously crafted and effortlessly vibrant.From the opening number “Latina Foreva,” where she strutted in a glittering gold bikini, to the cave‑like rave set that highlighted the “primordial wildness of women,” the show never lost its momentum. Even a half‑hour delay for lighting adjustments was quickly forgiven as the music surged forward, blending hard‑hitting tracks from her 2025 album Tropicoqueta with hits from 2023’s Mañana Será Bonito.Musically, the set was a tour of Latin genres. After a brief interlude, Karol G returned wearing a Carnival‑style feathered headdress for the mambo‑infused “Tropicoqueta.” She then invited an all‑female Mexican mariachi band for “Ese Hombre Es Malo,” followed by a duet with Becky G that mixed Spanish‑language celebration of Mexico and Colombia with a pointed nod to the United States’ immigration debate.Speaking amid the roar of the crowd, the 35‑year‑old artist said, “This is not just about me, this is about the Latina community, the love of my people,” acknowledging the delicate balance of celebrating Latin pride while the U.S. government tightens immigration policies. Her remarks highlighted the symbolic weight of performing such a vibrant, unapologetic Latin set on a stage that reaches millions worldwide.The finale reinforced the message of unity. After a soulful cover of Gloria Estefan’s “Mi Tierra,” Karol G launched into an EDM‑styled version of “Provenza,” complete with rainbow lasers, strobe lights, fireworks and a cascade of confetti. Three false‑ending beat drops and a megawatt smile underscored her point: the victory belongs to the entire Latin community, not just the performer.

Euphoria's third season has been a long-awaited return, but unfortunately, it's absolutely not worth the wait. The show's creator, Sam Levinson, has taken a darker and more desperate approach, focusing on the characters' bleak lives and struggles with sex work, drugs, and trauma.The season picks up five years after the end of season two, with recovering addict Rue (Zendaya) drawn into the world of drug dealer Laurie (Martha Kelly). Her life as a mule between Mexico and the US is depicted in gritty and intense cinematic sequences, drawing on westerns and blaxploitation.Meanwhile, Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) is on the cusp of trad wifedom with toxic jock Nate (Jacob Elordi), but their relationship is marred by Nate's crumbling business and Cassie's OnlyFans content. The show's handling of her cam girl ambitions feels bafflingly dated and voyeuristic.The performances are mostly good, with standout performances from Zendaya, Sweeney, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. However, the show's grim and humorless tone makes it feel like a chore to watch.Levinson's approach to exploring the devastating impact of synthetic opioids on ordinary Americans feels heavy-handed and desperate. The show's focus on brainrot bimbo-ism and male perversion also detracts from its once unapologetically queer heart.Overall, Euphoria season three is a disappointing and grubby addition to the series, feeling like a contractual obligation rather than a passion project.

The highly anticipated third and final season of Euphoria premieres on Monday at 9pm on Sky Atlantic. The series, created by Sam Levinson, follows the lives of a group of high school students as they navigate love, friendship, and identity.The new season stars Zendaya, Jacob Elordi, and Sydney Sweeney, who have all become major Hollywood stars since the show's debut. The story picks up five years after high school, with the characters now in their early 20s. Previews are scarce, but it's known that Cassie and Nate are married, Jules is in art school and is a 'sugar baby', and Rue is involved in some shady business in Mexico.Other TV shows airing tonight include Miriam Margolyes Made Me Me on BBC Two, Great Japanese Railway Journeys on BBC Two, Missed Call on Channel 5, Charmain and the Prophet on BBC Two, and DTF St Louis on Sky Atlantic.

FIFA has officially declined the Iranian Football Federation’s (FFIRI) appeal to relocate its 2026 World Cup games from the United States to Mexico, stating that the logistical complexities of moving the matches are prohibitive, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed. The request, lodged last month, was met with a firm response from the sport’s governing body: all scheduled fixtures will proceed in the United States as originally drawn, eliminating any prospect of Mexican venues hosting Iran’s team. Sheinbaum reiterated the stance at a press conference in Mexico City, emphasizing that “FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” and that attempting relocation would create untenable logistical hurdles. FIFA declined to comment to Al Jazeera regarding the confirmation of Iran’s host venues. The backdrop to this dispute is the ongoing US‑Israel war against Iran, which erupted on 28 February, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and 168 people in a girls’ school on the first day of hostilities. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Israeli and U.S. military installations across the Middle East. A Pakistan‑mediated ceasefire halted the exchanges on Wednesday, though Israel continues operations in parts of Lebanon. Iran was among the earliest qualifiers from the Asian confederation and is placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. The team’s three group matches are slated for the U.S. West Coast: Los Angeles on 15 June and 21 June, and Seattle on 26 June. While Mexico, a co‑host of the tournament with the United States and Canada, initially expressed willingness to accommodate Iran’s fixtures, President Sheinbaum’s recent remarks align with FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s position. Infantino, who met Iranian players, coaches and officials in Turkey on 31 March, affirmed that “the matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.” Infantino also dismissed speculation that Iran might boycott the tournament altogether after FFIRI President Mehdi Taj warned of a potential boycott if security could not be guaranteed in the United States. Earlier, former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on social media that Iran’s participation would be unsafe, prompting Taj to state that Iran would refuse to travel to America under those conditions. Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali later warned that Iran’s World Cup involvement remains uncertain unless FIFA relocates the games, underscoring the political sensitivity surrounding the event. In summary, despite regional conflict, diplomatic tensions, and security concerns voiced by Iranian officials, FIFA’s decision ensures that Iran will compete in the United States as originally scheduled, preserving the tournament’s logistical integrity.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has not ruled out the possibility of Neymar Jr earning a spot in his 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup, giving the forward two months to demonstrate he has the necessary qualities.Ancelotti has consistently stated that Neymar will be in contention if he is fully fit, but the attacker was omitted from Brazil's squad for last month's warm-up matches against France and Croatia.Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023 and has struggled to maintain a consistent run of matches since returning to Santos last year.Ancelotti has suggested that Neymar remains part of his thinking as Brazil assess their options in the run-up to the World Cup, which takes place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.“He’s a great talent, and it’s normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup,” Ancelotti said in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe.“He’s currently being evaluated by the CBF [Brazilian Football Confederation], by me, and he still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup.“After his knee injury, Neymar has made a good comeback; he’s scoring goals. He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness. He’s on the right track.”Brazil are in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland in the World Cup and will begin their campaign on June 13 in New Jersey.