‘People’s opinions aren’t going to pay me’: Ireland’s Shane Ryan on his decision to join Enhanced Games

As Ireland's presidential election approaches, concerns are mounting over low voter turnout and a high likelihood of spoiled ballots. Recent polls indicate that 49% of voters feel unrepresented by the candidates, with independent leftwing candidate Catherine Connolly leading over the ruling centre-right's Heather Humphreys. This situation highlights a growing disillusionment with the political landscape, raising questions about the effectiveness of the campaign and the potential impact on democratic participation.

Ilia Malinin kicked off his Olympic season in spectacular fashion, winning the Grand Prix de France by a staggering 40-point margin. This impressive victory not only showcases his incredible talent, landing five quadruple jumps, but also solidifies his status as a leading figure in men's figure skating. His performance is a strong indicator of what fans can expect as the Olympics approach, making it an exciting time for the sport.

George Springer's impressive three-run home run against the Seattle Mariners has propelled the Toronto Blue Jays into the MLB World Series for the first time in 32 years. This historic moment not only highlights Springer's talent but also marks a significant achievement for the franchise, reigniting excitement among fans and showcasing the team's potential on a grand stage.

In recent news, China has accused the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) of illegally entering its airspace during a flare incident, raising tensions between the two nations. Meanwhile, ANZ has announced that all services have returned to normal following a recent outage. These developments are significant as they highlight ongoing diplomatic challenges in the region while also addressing operational stability in Australia's banking sector.

In Portland, Oregon, pro-immigration protesters clashed with federal agents outside an ICE facility, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies. This incident matters as it reflects the deep divisions in public opinion on immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies, sparking discussions about civil rights and community safety.

Prince Andrew remains a prominent figure in the news, with ongoing discussions about his connections to the palace. Meanwhile, a significant tech outage has affected users globally, raising questions about the reliability of major tech companies. This dual focus highlights the intersection of royal affairs and modern technology, making it a noteworthy topic for both royal watchers and tech enthusiasts.

In a historic move, Japan's parliament has voted in the country's first-ever female Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone in gender equality and representation in politics. This groundbreaking decision not only reflects changing societal attitudes but also paves the way for more inclusive leadership in Japan, inspiring future generations of women to pursue political careers.

The chess community is mourning the unexpected death of a talented grandmaster at just 29 years old. This tragic loss not only highlights the fragility of life but also serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on the sport. The grandmaster's contributions to chess were significant, inspiring many young players and elevating the game's profile. As tributes pour in, it’s clear that their legacy will continue to influence the chess world for years to come.