Sports
Tokyo Olympics Begin with Muted Ceremony and Empty Stadium
Published
5 years agoon
TOKYO (AP) — Belated and beleaguered, the virus-delayed Tokyo Summer Olympics finally opened Friday night with cascading fireworks and made-for-TV choreography that unfolded in a near-empty stadium, a colorful but strangely subdued ceremony that set a striking tone to match a unique pandemic Games.
As their opening played out, devoid of the usual crowd energy, the Olympics convened amid simmering anger and disbelief in much of the host country, but with hopes from organizers that the excitement of the sports to follow would offset the widespread opposition.
“Today is a moment of hope. Yes, it is very different from what all of us had imagined,” IOC President Thomas Bach said. “But let us cherish this moment because finally we are all here together.”
“This feeling of togetherness — this is the light at the end of the dark tunnel of the pandemic,” Bach declared. Later, Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka received the Olympic flame from a torch relay through the stadium and lit the Olympic cauldron.
Trepidations throughout Japan have threatened for months to drown out the usual packaged glitz of the opening. Inside the stadium after dusk Friday, however, a precisely calibrated ceremony sought to portray that the Games — and their spirit — are going on.
Early in the ceremony, an ethereal blue light bathed the empty seats as loud music muted the shouts of scattered protesters outside calling for the Games to be canceled. A single stage held an octagon shape meant to resemble the country’s fabled Mount Fuji. Later, an orchestral medley of songs from iconic Japanese video games served as the soundtrack for athletes’ entrances.
Mostly masked athletes waved enthusiastically to thousands of empty seats and to a world hungry to watch them compete but surely wondering what to make of it all. Some athletes marched socially distanced, while others clustered in ways utterly contrary to organizers’ hopes. The Czech Republic entered with other countries even though its delegation has had several positive COVID tests since arriving.
“You had to face great challenges on your Olympic journey,” Bach told the athletes. “Today you are making your Olympic dream come true.”
Organizers held a moment of silence for those who had died in the pandemic; as it ticked off and the music paused, the sounds of the protests echoed in the distance.
Protesters’ shouts gave voice to a fundamental question about these Games as Japan, and large parts of the world, reel from the continuing gut punch of a pandemic that is stretching well into its second year, with cases in Tokyo approaching record highs this week: Will the deep, intrinsic human attachment to the spectacle of sporting competition at the highest possible level be enough to salvage these Olympics?
Time and again, previous opening ceremonies have pulled off something that approaches magic. Scandals — bribery in Salt Lake City, censorship and pollution in Beijing, doping in Sochi — fade into the background when the sports begin.
But with people still falling ill and dying each day from the coronavirus, there’s a particular urgency to the questions about whether the Olympic flame can burn away the fear or provide a measure of catharsis — and even awe — after a year of suffering and uncertainty in Japan and around the world.
“Today, with the world facing great challenges, some are again questioning the power of sport and the value of the Olympic Games,” Seiko Hashimoto, president of the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee, said in a speech. But, she said of the Games’ possibilities, “This is the power of sport. … This is its essence.”
Japanese Emperor Naruhito declared the Games open, with fireworks bursting over the stadium after he spoke.
Outside, hundreds of curious Tokyo residents lined a barricade that separated them from those entering — but just barely: Some of those going in took selfies with the onlookers across the barricades, and there was an excited carnival feeling. Some pedestrians waved enthusiastically to approaching Olympic buses.
The sports have already begun, and some of the focus is turning toward the competition to come.
Can the U.S. women’s soccer team, for instance, even after an early, shocking loss to Sweden, become the first to win an Olympics following a World Cup victory? Can Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama win gold in golf after becoming the first Japanese player to win the Masters? Will Italy’s Simona Quadarella challenge American standout Katie Ledecky in the 800- and 1,500-meter freestyle swimming races?
For now, however, it’s hard to miss how unusual these Games promise to be. The lovely national stadium can seem like an isolated militarized zone, surrounded by huge barricades. Roads around it have been sealed and businesses closed.
Inside, the feeling of sanitized, locked-down quarantine carries over. Fans, who would normally be screaming for their countries and mixing with people from around the world, have been banned, leaving only a carefully screened contingent of journalists, officials, athletes and participants.
Olympics often face opposition, but there’s also usually a pervasive feeling of national pride. Japan’s resentment centers on the belief that it was strong-armed into hosting — forced to pay billions and risk the health of a largely unvaccinated, deeply weary public — so the IOC can collect its billions in media revenue.
“Sometimes people ask why the Olympics exist, and there are at least two answers. One is they are a peerless global showcase of the human spirit as it pertains to sport, and the other is they are a peerless global showcase of the human spirit as it pertains to aristocrats getting luxurious hotel rooms and generous per diems,” Bruce Arthur, a sports columnist for the Toronto Star, wrote recently.
How did we get here? A quick review of the past year and a half seems operatic in its twists and turns.
A once-in-a-century pandemic forces the postponement of the 2020 version of the Games. A fusillade of scandals (sexism and other discrimination and bribery claims, overspending, ineptitude, bullying) unfolds. People in Japan, meanwhile, watch bewildered as an Olympics considered a bad idea by many scientists actually takes shape.
Japanese athletes, freed from onerous travel rules and able to train more normally, may enjoy a nice boost over their rivals in some cases, even without fans. Judo, a sport that Japan is traditionally a powerhouse in, will begin Saturday, giving the host nation a chance for early gold.
The reality, for now, is that the delta variant of the virus is still rising, straining the Japanese medical system in places, and raising fears of an avalanche of cases. Only a little over 20% of the population is fully vaccinated. And there have been near daily reports of positive virus cases within the so-called Olympic bubble that’s meant to separate the Olympic participants from the worried, skeptical Japanese population.
For a night, at least, the glamor and message of hope of the opening ceremonies may distract many global viewers from the surrounding anguish and anger.
“After more than half a century, the Olympic Games have returned to Tokyo,” Hashimoto said. “Now we will do everything in our power to make this Games a source of pride for generations to come.”
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Sports
U.S. U-19 Men’s National Team Advances to Fifth Straight Concacaf U-20 Championship Final With 2-0 Win Over Costa Rica
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
MEXICO CITY (FNN SPORTS) — The U.S. Under-19 Men’s National Team advanced to its fifth consecutive Concacaf U-20 Championship final with a 2-0 semifinal victory over Costa Rica on Friday at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City.
Ruben Ramos scored in the 36th minute and captain Christopher Applewhite added the insurance goal in the 76th as the United States continued its run of championship-game appearances dating to 2017.
The Americans finished with a 17-8 advantage in total shots and put seven attempts on goal while limiting Costa Rica to two shots on target.
Ramos Breaks Through in First Half
The United States controlled much of the early action and created several opportunities during the opening 20 minutes.
Forward Jaidyn Contreras repeatedly challenged the Costa Rican defense and delivered dangerous service into the penalty area, helping the Americans generate multiple set-piece opportunities.
The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute.
Costa Rica defender Emmanuel Brenes attempted to play the ball out of his own half, but U.S. midfielder Alexander Shaw intercepted the pass and directed the ball forward to Ramos.
Ramos advanced into space before firing a right-footed shot from distance. The attempt took a slight deflection off a Costa Rican defender, changing its path and beating goalkeeper Ian O’Rourke to give the United States a 1-0 lead.
The goal was Ramos’ fourth in five tournament matches.
U.S. Defense Protects Lead
The United States continued pressing after halftime.
Ramos nearly scored again in the 59th minute, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that forced O’Rourke into a two-handed save.
Costa Rica attempted to find an equalizer as the second half progressed, but the American defense held firm.
Colin Guske helped clear a dangerous opportunity before Braden Dunham made a sliding defensive play to eliminate another Costa Rican attack.
Applewhite Adds Insurance Goal
The United States doubled its advantage in the 76th minute following a free kick.
Tristan Brown sent the service into the six-yard box, where Applewhite slid into position and redirected the ball into the net for a 2-0 lead.
The Americans protected the advantage through the final whistle to secure another appearance in the Concacaf championship match.
U.S. Dominates Statistical Battle
The United States finished with seven shots on goal compared with Costa Rica’s two and held a 7-2 advantage in corner kicks.
U.S. goalkeeper William Lodmell made two saves to complete the clean sheet.
Costa Rica goalkeeper O’Rourke finished with five saves.
Both teams were called for nine fouls.
Match Summary
2026 Concacaf U-20 Men’s Championship Semifinal
United States 2, Costa Rica 0
Scoring
- USA — Ruben Ramos (Alexander Shaw), 36th minute
- USA — Christopher Applewhite (Tristan Brown), 76th minute
Shots: USA 17, Costa Rica 8
Shots on goal: USA 7, Costa Rica 2
Corner kicks: USA 7, Costa Rica 2
Saves: USA 2, Costa Rica 5
Fouls: USA 9, Costa Rica 9
U.S. Reaches Fifth Consecutive Final
The victory sent the Americans to their fifth consecutive Concacaf U-20 Championship final and put them in position to compete for another regional title.
The United States entered the championship match seeking its fourth Concacaf U-20 title during its recent run of tournament success.
Florida
Todd Bowles Says Buccaneers’ Newcomers Have Been ‘Breath of Fresh Air’ Ahead of Jets Joint Practices
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
Chris Godwin Jr. is healthier, Ted Hurst III continues to impress and Tampa Bay prepares to test its revamped roster against New York
TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles says the combination of veteran and rookie additions has brought a noticeable change in leadership, attitude and toughness to the team as Tampa Bay prepares for joint practices with the New York Jets.
Following Sunday’s training camp practice, Bowles praised the impact of the Buccaneers’ offseason additions and said the difference has been significant.
“It’s huge. I mean, it’s night and day with the veterans that came in and with the rookies that have come in, just from a leadership standpoint, an attitude standpoint, a mentality and study habits,” Bowles said.
Bowles specifically mentioned Kenny Gainwell, Alex Anzalone, A’Shawn Robinson, Josiah Trotter, Rueben Bain Jr. and Rakeem Nuñez-Roches among players helping shape the team’s mentality.
“It’s been a breath of fresh air to see, and everybody gravitates toward them,” Bowles said.
Bowles: Chris Godwin Jr. ‘Peaking at the Right Time’
One of the more encouraging developments for Tampa Bay has been the condition of veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr.
Bowles said Godwin enters this stage of camp healthier than he has been in recent years.
“I think he’s healthier right now,” Bowles said. “Years past he’s been hurt the last two [training camps], but he’s a lot healthier right now.”
Bowles praised Godwin’s mental sharpness, toughness and leadership while emphasizing that the veteran remains an important playmaker in both the passing and blocking games.
“I think right now he’s peaking at the right time,” Bowles said.
Ted Hurst III Making His Case
Wide receiver Ted Hurst III also drew attention during Sunday’s practice, particularly for his ability to make contested catches.
“He can go up and get the ball,” Bowles said. “You see it on his college tape as well, and those are good things to see.”
Hurst said he is trying to establish that ability as a defining part of his game.
“[I’m] just trying to be myself and exploit and show that that’s my game, going up, attacking the ball,” Hurst said.
Cornerback Jacob Parrish also singled out Hurst when asked which receivers have challenged him during camp.
“I’ll say Ted Hurst [III] — he had a very good catch on me today, actually,” Parrish said. “He’s a rookie, very tall, good at running, very fast.”
Hurst said his first NFL training camp has reinforced how much attention to detail is required at the professional level.
“These are the best athletes in the world and everything’s detailed,” Hurst said.
Buccaneers Defense Showing New Energy
Parrish said Tampa Bay’s defensive additions have brought a different attitude to the unit.
“I would say it’s just the energy and the guys we brought in,” Parrish said. “They got an edge to them.”
Bowles also praised Parrish’s development, describing him as one of Tampa Bay’s best coverage defenders alongside Zyon McCollum.
“He’s very quick,” Bowles said. “He’s right up there with Zyon as one of our best cover guys, and he can play inside as well, so that makes him very versatile.”
Bowles said Parrish’s improved understanding of the defensive scheme has allowed him to rely on more than his athletic ability entering his second season.
Josiah Trotter Brings Old-School Physicality
Bowles offered a colorful assessment of linebacker Josiah Trotter when asked what distinguishes him from other linebackers he has coached.
“He’s almost like a new-school linebacker in an old-school body,” Bowles said.
The coach said Trotter combines size and athleticism with an aggressive downhill playing style.
“He really knows how to play the game, and he really plays with intent to do serious harm,” Bowles said.
Parrish similarly praised Trotter’s intensity while discussing Tampa Bay’s young defensive players.
Rueben Bain Jr. Impresses Nuñez-Roches
Veteran defensive lineman Rakeem Nuñez-Roches, back with Tampa Bay after spending time with the New York Giants, said he has been impressed with rookie outside linebacker Rueben Bain Jr.’s approach.
“Rueben is impressive,” Nuñez-Roches said. “Just to see him with his poise, the way that he stacks his rushes, his approach to the game, even just the way he watches his film on the sideline in between plays.”
Nuñez-Roches said Bain actively seeks advice on ways to improve between plays.
“I can’t wait to see what he does this season,” Nuñez-Roches said.
Ayden Garnes Continues Development
Bowles also highlighted cornerback Ayden Garnes as a young player showing significant improvement since offseason workouts.
Bowles said Garnes appears to have developed a better understanding of Tampa Bay’s defensive scheme, allowing him to play faster and more consistently.
Hurst also praised Garnes’ preparation and film study.
“Every time I walk around, I see him looking at film or I just see him studying this game and taking it to the field,” Hurst said. “He’s definitely a great competitor.”
Buccaneers Turn Attention to Jets
Tampa Bay’s next test comes against unfamiliar competition as the Buccaneers prepare for joint practices with the New York Jets in New Jersey.
Bowles said practicing against another organization provides an opportunity to evaluate whether Tampa Bay’s players can execute their assignments against a different system.
“Here, it can get a little mundane when you go against the same guy every day,” Bowles said.
The joint practices will also give Tampa Bay coaches an opportunity to evaluate players such as David Walker against outside competition.
Bowles emphasized that the objective is productive football work — not fighting.
“That’s not what we’re going up there for,” Bowles said. “We’re going up there to practice and get better.”
With Tampa Bay moving deeper into its preseason preparations, Bowles said Sunday’s practice provided another sign that the offense and defense are beginning to operate more cohesively.
“We’re functioning better as a unit,” Bowles said, “so that’s the overall picture for both sides of the football going into next week.”
Sports
McCumbee McAleer Racing Parts Ways With Nate Cicero, New Driver Announcement Coming
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
McCumbee McAleer Racing says Nate Cicero is no longer associated with the organization in any capacity and plans to announce a new driver in the coming days.
(FNN SPORTS) — McCumbee McAleer Racing has ended its relationship with Nate Cicero, effective immediately, the organization announced in an official statement.
“We are disappointed to announce that our relationship with Nate Cicero has come to an end. Effective immediately, Nate is no longer associated with MMR in any capacity. We will have no further comment on the topic,” the team said.
MMR Provides No Details on Cicero’s Departure
McCumbee McAleer Racing did not disclose what led to the decision and indicated it does not plan to provide additional comment on the matter.
The announcement marks an immediate change for the racing organization as it looks ahead to its next driver lineup.
Team Says Focus Is on Moving Forward
Despite the change, MMR said it remains focused on its racing program and the organization’s future.
“We remain focused on moving forward and continuing to build on MMR’s goals and success,” the team said.
New Driver Announcement Expected
McCumbee McAleer Racing said fans will not have to wait long to learn who will join the team next.
“As we look to our future, we will be making a driver announcement in the coming days,” MMR said.
The team did not identify the incoming driver or provide a specific date for the announcement.
FNN Sports will continue to follow developments and provide updates when McCumbee McAleer Racing announces its new driver.
