SBS News In Depth

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Friday, with the opening match taking place in Mexico City’s legendary Azteca stadium. Amid controversy over FIFA’s President has defended its handling of visa issues experienced by teams and referees ahead of the tournament. Of the three host nations, Mexico is by far the most football-obsessed - but there’s been controversy over ticket prices and concerns about security.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Friday, with the opening match taking place in Mexico City’s legendary Azteca stadium.

Amid controversy over FIFA’s President has defended its handling of visa issues experienced by teams and referees ahead of the tournament.

Of the three host nations, Mexico is by far the most football-obsessed - but there’s been controversy over ticket prices and concerns about security.

US forces have launched a new wave of strikes at Iran, following days of escalating violence. In response, Iran has targeted the US fifth fleet in Bahrain and says it has closed the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels, warning any ship that attempts to pass through will be targeted. As tensions continue to build, Foreign Minister Penny Wong has joined international allies in calling for de-escalation during a visit to the UK.

Japan is seeking to strengthen its alliance with Australia. Japan's top diplomat in Canberra has also defended the nation's gas export arrangements with Australia. Ambassador Kazuhiro Suzuki sat down with our Chief Political Correspondent Anna Henderson.

Australia’s largest listed companies are more gender-diverse than ever, with only four all-male boards remaining across the ASX 300, but new research reveals progress has stalled in other areas, including cultural diversity, disability and LGBTIQ+ representation. Stephanie Youssef explores the findings with David Evans, Managing Partner at Watermark Search.

Australian fugitive, James Dalamangas is fighting to avoid extradition back to Australia, where he is wanted over the alleged murder of George Giannopoulous. The 55-year-old had been in hiding since 1999, until he was arrested earlier this week in Greece. A legal process is underway to determine is he can return back to Australia.