3 d. ago Catherine Connolly’s election as president has added a new dynamic to Irish politics | Justine McCarthy

After a bizarre contest in which both government candidates blew their chances, the left has shown it can unite to winThe magical ingredient required to become the president of Ireland is as mysterious as what Coca-Cola puts into its fizzy drink, but legions of voters think Catherine Connolly has it. The leftwing, independent TD (member of parliament) with the quiet composure and austere appearance of a contemplative nun has won an overwhelming victory to succeed the outgoing national treasure, 84-year-old poet Michael D Higgins. Her choice as the republic’s 10th head of state in a contest so bizarre it might have been scripted by Basil Fawlty has left the two government parties reeling.Fianna Fáil’s candidate, Jim Gavin, hand-picked by the taoiseach, Micheál Martin, for his accomplishments in sport and the cultural bastion of the Gaelic Athletic Association, withdrew after it emerged he had failed since 2009 to refund €3,300 owed to a former tenant. Gavin’s name remained on the bal...

Politics

7 d. ago Plans for Milan’s Serie A match in Perth thrown into serious doubt

Asian Football Confederation under pressure not to sanction gameBarcelona v Villarreal in Miami has already been called offSerie A’s plan to host a match in Australia could be the next attempt at staging a domestic fixture abroad to be scrapped, following the abandonment of La Liga’s efforts to move Barcelona’s game against Villarreal to Miami.The Guardian understands there are serious doubts over whether Milan and Como will face each other in Perth, rather than their home country, in a game scheduled for February. This month Uefa approved both switches, emphasising permission had been granted on an exceptional basis. Now senior figures within European football’s governing body feel that the probability of Serie A breaking precedent and playing a game 8,500 miles from home is also receding. Continue reading...

Politics

2 w. ago Rory McIlroy wants Ryder Cup focus to be on Europe’s performance

McIlroy feels the focus should be on Europe’s performance.

Politics

3 w. ago Former tenant who claims Jim Gavin owes him 3,300 euros ‘feels sorry’ for him

The tenant who made the allegations against Mr Gavin, Niall Donald, claimed Fianna Fail had been aware of the story for weeks.

Politics

3 w. ago Europa League roundup: McGinn seals Villa win as Rangers and Celtic lose

Emi Buendía also on target in 2-0 win at FeyenoordRangers lose 2-1 at Sturm Graz; Celtic beaten by BragaEmi Buendía and John McGinn struck second-half goals as Aston Villa beat Feyenoord 2-0 in Rotterdam to make it back-to-back Europa League wins.Villa, who beat Bologna 1-0 in their opening game last week, held their nerve at De Kuip after coming under heavy first-half pressure, with Buendía and then McGinn scoring for Unai Emery’s side. Continue reading...

Politics

last month Justin Rose makes feelings clear on captaining Team Europe at the Ryder Cup

Justin Rose played a pivotal role in Team Europe's dramatic victory at the Ryder Cup, and the Englishman has been tipped to captain the side in the next edition of the competition in 2027

Politics

last month Rory McIlroy’s wife Erica Stoll’s behaviour brought up by Ryder Cup stars

Rory McIlroy's wife was subject to abuse from Team USA fans during the Ryder Cup, with fellow Team Europe stars making their feelings known on how she handled herself

Politics

last month Justin Rose and Shane Lowry comment on behaviour of Rory McIlroy’s wife during Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy's wife Erica Stoll was the target of abuse from fans during the Ryder Cup, with fellow Team Europe stars Justin Rose and Shane Lowry making their feelings clear on how she handled herself

Politics