As leagues prepare to pause for the tournament in Qatar, it’s a chance to reflect on the first half’s surprise stories and surprise leaders, and their potential staying power.
Billion-dollar investment funds and N.F.L. ownership groups are among those angling for a foothold in the Indian Premier League. The returns, not the sport, are the draw.
Long ridiculed for having a library-like atmosphere at its games, Arsenal listened to its fans, embraced a nascent ultra group and let its loudest supporters set the tone.