Charlie Alford

Calls to permanently pedestrianise central Belfast following festival success

Post author:Robert Freeman
Post published:8 August 2026
Post last modified:8 August 2026

Campaigners have called on north of Ireland infrastructure minister Liz Kimmins to ensure Belfast stays a walkable city. The demand comes after pedestrianisation of the city centre has proved a huge success during a major festival. The north’s largest city is currently hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for the first time. The event is the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and culture. It is likely that over one million people will visit Belfast throughout the Fleadh, and they have been able to enjoy the festival’s cultural hub unimpeded thanks to the removal of traffic. As part of a petition…

World Cup proves success of team-first football

Post author:Alaa Shamali
Post published:5 July 2026
Post last modified:5 July 2026

World Cup tournaments are no longer determined by marquee names or trophy-laden cabinets, nor is a legacy of greatness enough to dominate the pitch. The 2026 World Cup confirms that football has entered a new era defined by collective organisation and tactical discipline. Today, less heralded teams possess the tools to challenge traditional powerhouses, often forcing them into grueling battles that last until the final whistle. The vast gap in technical skill that defined the game for decades has narrowed. The rapid spread of tactical knowledge across continents, combined with modern fitness regimes, has enabled players to press harder and maintain…