Former Canadian Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, now the subject of increased federal interest, has been named to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list. He is accused of several charges, including money laundering and intimidation, with a reward of $15 million for his capture. The FBI has heightened its efforts to apprehend Wedding, primarily due to his involvement in a January 2025 murder. This development is a major legal and public safety concern for authorities tasked with tracking down fugitives. The increased reward signifies the severity of the charges and the potential impact of his current actions on the community.
In the legal realm, a significant development occurred when a coalition of 130 Democratic Congressional representatives filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court. The brief supports trans athletes in two separate cases that involve women’s sports and the enforcement of Title IX across the United States. This move reflects a broader effort by the Democrats to shape legal outcomes and ensure protections for transgender individuals in competitive athletics. The brief is considered a crucial factor in the court’s consideration of cases that could set precedents for future legal challenges.
Meanwhile, sports figures like Cristiano Ronaldo have made headlines for their public appearances and statements. Ronaldo recently attended the White House for a dinner event, marking his first U.S. visit in nearly a decade. During this event, President Donald Trump made remarks about the athlete’s presence, highlighting the significance of his appearance in the context of U.S. politics and sports diplomacy. Ronaldo’s decision to participate in such an event is seen as a strategic move to engage with political and cultural figures in the United States.
Other stories in the newsletter include Megan Rapinoe’s discussions on the broader implications of gender inclusivity in sports. Rapinoe, an prominent feminist and activist, has critiqued the motives behind efforts to protect women’s sports from transgender participation. Her recent podcast episode addresses an op-ed by Angel City FC player Elizabeth Eddy, who has called for clear gender standards within the NWSL. This exchange highlights the contentious nature of the debate over trans inclusion in sports and the varied perspectives among athletes and commentators.
Additionally, the newsletter covers various sports events and athlete developments. Cam Skattebo, a rookie running back for the New York Giants, responded to public criticism following a controversial incident at Madison Square Garden. This event, which involved a shoving match with WWE stars, has drawn media attention and sparked discussions about athlete behavior and public response. On the other hand, Gracie Hunt, daughter of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt, expressed support for an alternate halftime show for the 2026 Super Bowl, suggesting a potential rival to Bad Bunny’s planned appearance. This development has sparked interest in the commercial and entertainment aspects of major sports events.