Get ready for a year of stars, stripes and more England gripes, the snow queen and Major Tom

JUST in case you had not heard Donald Trump trumpeting its magnificence, the showpiece sporting event of the year will be the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

- ANDY DUNN

But, as usual, there is plenty going on all over the globe and in every sport. And here are five things for British sports fans to keep an eye on in 2026.

60 YEARS OF HURT...

Unfortunately, it will be 60 and counting when the curtain closes on World Cup 2026.

A blemish-free qualification campaign has made some supporters and observers extremely optimistic about England's chances of going all the way in the summer. Those supporters and observers also like the fact we have a proven winner as a manager - a manager who will be cold-hearted and dispassionate.

But the bottom line is that England remain a team too reliant on Harry Kane and remain a team that has question marks over its defence... even though they did not concede a goal in qualification.

It is not England's fault, but they are a side unexposed to high-quality opposition.

They will give a good account of themselves but, in conditions that will not suit, the wait will go on.

ROCK ON, TOMMY