Sports Updates

UFC’s Fight Island is on as fighters will head to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi next month. The four July dates were announced Tuesday after months of anticipation as UFC tried to find a way to host fights with International fighters.

While UFC has found a way for international competition, the LPGA lost one of its majors as the Evian Championship in France was canceled over international travel concerns. The event was scheduled to field 120 players from 30 countries, but the organization felt “opening the borders, in particular with Asia and the USA, poses a major risk.” 

Other News:

• COVID-19 effects are also at the heart of why Brazil withdrew its bid to host the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Brazil has more than 37,000 COVID-19 deaths and expects its economy to contract by at least 7.4%, so it can’t provide FIFA the financial assurances the organization needs. The event is expected to be awarded June 25 and is now down to Colombia, Japan or a joint candidacy of Australia and New Zealand.
• New Zealand looks to be fully recovered from the coronavirus pandemic as rugby will resume play this weekend, with more than 35,000 fans expected at one game. The country has no active COVID-19 cases – just 1,500 total – and started opening up stores, public transportation and restaurants this week.
• In the U.S., NASCAR is ready to welcome fans at its upcoming races in Florida and Alabama. Up to 1,000 Florida service members will watch Sunday’s race at Homestead-Miami Speedway, while up to 5,000 guests will be allowed in the grandstands at Talladega Superspeedway on June 21.