Richarlison's Tottenham Axe Sends World Cup 2026 Warning as Refereeing Storm and Women's Sport Campaign Dominate Headlines

The football weekend is shaping up to be one of the most compelling of the season, with storylines stretching far beyond domestic points and deep into the road toward the 2026 World Cup. The biggest talking point comes from north London, where Tottenham Hotspur have axed Richarlison from their squad. Once viewed as a certainty for Brazil's national team setup, the combative forward now finds his international future clouded in uncertainty. With the 2026 World Cup looming on the horizon, national team selectors are expected to reward players earning regular minutes at club level, and Richarlison's omission will set alarm bells ringing in his camp. For a player who has always thrived on confidence and rhythm, the coming months represent a critical juncture in his career. Refereeing is also back under the spotlight after Dean sparked fresh controversy, reigniting the seemingly endless debate over officiating standards in the English game. With VAR discussions already dominating conversations ahead of the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America, every high-profile officiating decision is now scrutinised through a tournament lens. Fans and pundits alike are asking whether the sport's governing bodies are doing enough to ensure consistency on the biggest stage of all. On the pitch, Liverpool make the trip to Ipswich Town as the weekend's marquee fixture takes shape, with the Premier League serving up no shortage of intrigue. As Guardian Football's '10 things to watch for' preview highlights, the title race, European chases, and relegation battles are all intensifying — form that will inevitably shape national team selections as the World Cup approaches. Perhaps the most significant long-term story, however, comes away from the pitch entirely. The chief executives of the Football Association, the Rugby Football Union, and the England and Wales Cricket Board have joined forces with leading broadcasters and YouTube in writing directly to the chancellor, requesting tax credits for production companies. The aim? To unlock greater television coverage of women's sport. It is a landmark show of unity across three major sports, reflecting the growing recognition that visibility drives investment, participation, and quality — a lesson women's football has learned emphatically in recent years. From squad decisions with World Cup implications to officiating debates and a campaign that could transform how millions watch women's sport, this weekend captures football at a genuine crossroads. One thing is certain: the stories unfolding now will echo all the way to 2026. This article is based on reporting by Guardian Football.