January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
LONDON, Aug 5 — Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has signed a new long-term contract keeping him at the club until 2028, following a successful campaign that saw him lead the team back to the Premier League.
The 49-year-old Frenchman joined Sunderland in June 2024 after departing Lorient and made an immediate impact, guiding the Black Cats to promotion after an eight-year absence from the top flight.
Sunderland clinched their return to the Premier League with a 2-1 victory over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final in May. Their 2025–26 campaign kicks off at home against West Ham on August 16.
Le Bris expressed his appreciation for the club's support: “The connection I have with the staff, players, and supporters has come naturally, and we’ve shared many memorable moments. There’s a strong collective ambition here, and I can feel the drive and determination to keep moving forward. Everyone in the organisation has a role to play, and we’re all aligned in our goals.”
Sunderland finished fourth in the Championship last season and secured their spot at Wembley after a dramatic semi-final win over Coventry. Tommy Watson’s goal in the final sealed their return to top-flight football.
The club has been active in the transfer market this summer, making eight signings, including former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka.
Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi praised the coach’s impact: “Regis’ new deal is a recognition of the outstanding work he’s done since joining us. More importantly, it reflects the trust we have in the future we’re building together. Our goal is to re-establish Sunderland not just as a Premier League club in name, but in identity, performance, and ambition — and Regis is a vital part of that vision.” — AFP
