Sideline Story

Four years after the Beijing Winter Olympics, the ice hockey legacy is being written not by elite athletes, but by children in the Chinese capital. From Olympic venues turned training grounds to dreams of wearing the national jersey, this podcast explores how Beijing 2022 ignited a passion for ice hockey in China’s youth—and the hopes, challenges, and heartbeats shaping the future of the sport....

This week on Sideline Story, we turn to a rare bright moment for Chinese football. China's U-23 national team has made history by reaching the Asian Cup final for the first time, the country's best result at any level in over twenty years. But beyond the result, what made this team different? From defensive discipline and tactical flexibility to a new wave of young talent, we look at what this...

This week on Sideline Story, we turn to Real Madrid and the early end of Xabi Alonso's time at the Bernabeu. We look beyond the results to explore why a coach praised for his structure and tactical clarity struggled at a club built around superstars and freedom on the pitch. From tensions in the dressing room to Real Madrid's long-standing coaching culture, we break down why rigid ideas often...

This week, Sideline Story looks at the shock dismissal of Ruben Amorim at Manchester United. We break down why United chose to sack their head coach while still in the top-four race, examine how a tense press conference may have sealed his fate, and discuss the growing power struggle between head coaches and club hierarchies in modern football. From Old Trafford to the wider Premier League, we...

As the world looks ahead to the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, Sideline Story host Yang Guang takes winter sports lovers back to the slopes of Beijing 2022 to explore a lasting legacy in motion. Four years after the Games, Chongli—once a host of Olympic events—has transformed into a booming winter economy, turning venues into vibrant destinations and passion into prosperity. From...

Join Sideline Story on this special year-end episode as we look back on the unforgettable moments, standout athletes, and biggest headlines that defined sports in 2025. From heart-stopping plays and emotional victories to the rise of new stars and the legacy of retiring icons, the panel reflects on what made this year unique—both in China and around the world. We also share bold predictions for...

This week, Sideline Story dives into the high-stakes drama unfolding at two European football giants. With Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool in doubt after reported tensions with manager Arne Slot, we ask: Is his time at Anfield coming to an end? Meanwhile, at Real Madrid, legendary former player Xabi Alonso is facing mounting pressure after a troubling dip in form—how much time will he be...

Sideline Story reflects on the historic career of Chinese sprinter Su Bingtian following his retirement. We explore the monumental significance of his Asian record 9.83-second run at the Tokyo Olympics—a performance that redefined the limits of Asian speed and stunned the world. Through personal reflections and analysis, the discussion examines Su’s legacy as he closes this chapter, his impact on...

In this episode of Sideline Story, we dive into the thrilling climax of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Can Max Verstappen overcome a 12-point deficit to snatch the title from Lando Norris in Abu Dhabi? We analyze the high-pressure strategies, McLaren’s season-long dominance, and the shrinking gaps among top teams. Plus, we explore the uncertain future of China’s first F1 driver, Zhou Guanyu—will he...

This week, Sideline Story dive into European football's latest talking points. We discuss whether Arsenal's biggest title threat is now themselves, analyze Liverpool's worrying slump under Arne Slot, unpack Rodrygo's dramatic dip at Real Madrid, and explore the secrets behind Bayern Munich's record-breaking attack. Don't miss this deep dive into the stories shaping the beautiful game.