Charles Leclerc, in his upgraded Ferrari, came in half a second behind Russell's top time of 1:16.363, with the Mercedes driver needing the morale boost after weeks of struggle.

Australia coach Tony Popovic signed a contract extension ahead of their World Cup opener against Turkey that will take him through to the Asian Cup early next year.

United States star Christian Pulisic said the World Cup co-hosts are "ready to battle" on soccer's biggest stage as they prepare for a potentially bruising opener against Paraguay on Friday.

Government has commended Bafana Bafana for its "spirited performance" in the 2026 Fifa World Cup opener against Mexico on Thursday night.