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    Premier League chief Richard Masters offers huge update on Man City’s 130 financial rule breach charges

    PREMIER LEAGUE chief executive Richard Masters has issued an update on Manchester City’s 130 Financial Fair Play charges.City were hit with 115 charges over alleged breaches of FFP rules last February.Richard Masters has issued an update on Man City’s chargesCredit: GettyThat number rose to 130 later in the year following an administration issue.The reigning Prem champions vehemently denied the charges in a hearing which took place between September and December and a verdict is now imminent.Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this month that he expects to learn of the club’s fate in March.And the Spaniard has insisted that he will speak out on the situation when the process is over.Read More in FootballBut Prem chief Masters has given a brief update on the process on Thursday – suggesting the panel needs to be “given time”. Asked about the case at the Business of Football Summit, he said: “The disciplinary panel needs to be given time to come to their decision”.Football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes a relegation-inducing points deduction will be the most likely outcome should City lose the case.He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “A points deduction would be the most likely outcome should the club be found guilty.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”As for the quantum of points deduction, if Everton were initially given a 10 points deduction for going around about £10/12million over the limits in one particular season, I think, in order to set an example to the rest of football, it’s got to act as a deterrent.””We’ll probably be looking at somewhere in the region of 60 to 100 points, which would effectively guarantee relegation out of the Premier League and into the lower tiers of football in the EFL.”Micah Richards reveals he supports two Premier League teams but it ‘depends if I’m off air or on air’ Man City recently won a legal battle with the Premier League over “unlawful” financial rules.The bombshell verdict could now trigger a series of compensation claims from clubs and plunge the competition into crisis. More

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    I experienced the poshest, most exclusive stand in Premier League and it was like no other – just ignore the football

    IT’S the poshest, most exclusive and expensive stand in the Premier League.Bring your Speedos for a half-time dip in an open-air swimming pool, indulge your taste buds with a spot of lobster in a high-class restaurant, enjoy a drink on a roof-top bar overlooking the Thames.Dave Kidd visited Fulham’s new exclusive standThe Sun’s Chief Sports Writer paid £105 for his ticket with his son’s priced at £85 More

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    Lewis Hamilton on racing until 50, slamming ‘older white’ critics and getting ‘lit up’ by Mercedes staff at paintball

    AT the age of 40, most F1 drivers are in the slow lane to retirement.But not Lewis Hamilton, who is ready to make his childhood “dream” come true by getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car.Lewis Hamilton makes his dream come true by driving for FerrariCredit: RexAt 40, Hamilton still lives life in the fast laneCredit: Instagram / lululemonThe seven-time world champ spoke to Time Magazine about his move to the ScuderiaThe seven-time world champion fell in love with the red of the Scuderia by driving Michael Schumacher’s car in video games.Ferris Bueller’s 1961 250 GT California Spyder has always been Hamilton’s dream vehicle.But despite this, it was far from a straightforward decision when he was offered the chance to ditch Mercedes for Ferrari.Hamilton spent a few days meditating before deciding it was “the right thing for me”.READ MORE IN F1In an interview with Time Magazine, Hamilton reveals he has “never been so excited” despite nerves ahead of the first Grand Prix of the season in Australia on March 16. It would be easy for Hamilton to put his feet up and end as one of the best drivers to ever grace the sport.But Hamilton is firing back at claims he should retire and at those who have slammed his switch to Ferrari.He said: “You can’t stand still for too long. I needed to throw myself into something uncomfortable again.Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”What I can tell you is, retirement is nowhere on my radar. I could be here until I’m 50, who knows.“The old man is a state of mind. Of course your body ages. But I’m never going to be an old man.”Lewis Hamilton visits Ferrari HQ as he arrives at Maranello for his first official day with the Scuderia There has been fierce criticism from F1 legend Eddie Jordan, who branded the Italian team’s decision to axe Carlos Sainz from their line-up as “absolutely suicidal”.Ex-Ferrari driver Jacky Ickx claims Hamilton’s move is a marketing ploy to bring the glamour back to the brand.Even Mercedes principal Toto Wolff said he believes “everyone has a shelf life”.But Hamilton said: “I’ve always welcomed the negativity. I never, ever reply to any of the older, ultimately, white men who have commented on my career and what they think I should be doing.”How you show up, how you present yourself, how you perform slowly dispels that.”Hamilton remains on good terms with the people at MercedesCredit: GettyNothing is distracting him from his dream of an eighth world titleCredit: PAWinning his eighth title is firmly in sights and nothing is distracting him during his new life in Maranello, adding: “Don’t ever compare me to anybody else.“I’m the first and only black driver that’s ever been in this sport. I’m built different. I’ve been through a lot. I’ve had my own journey. “You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history. Because they are nothing like me. “I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No1 priority.”Despite Wolff’s comments among others, Hamilton remains on good terms with the people at Mercedes.Even if they got their own back during their annual team-bonding paintball session when one of Hamilton’s own team-mates hilariously fired at him.He admitted: “They lit me up, hard. It was so painful.”After dusting himself down, the Stevenage-born star was all smiles with Wolff and George Russell at the recent F1 75 launch event at London’s O2 Arena.All teams unveiled their liveries ahead of the 2025 season, with Hamilton taking to the stage in red. “I’m in red, I’m like, whoa. The suit looked so good on me. I’m like, Damn. It’s a really, really special moment,” says Hamilton.Despite his pure focus on the track, his calendar is full as he manages a production company, a clothing line and he always keeps at the height of fashion.Acting could also be on the horizon for Hamilton amid his co-producer rule for the new Brad Pitt film F1.The movie hits the big screens in June and Hamilton is playing a huge role in making the film as realistic as possible.Hamilton has rubbed shoulders with Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise in recent years – even taking Pitt for a spin to give him a taste of being a racing driver.Top Gun and F1 director Joseph Kosinski revealed: “He gave Brad the scare of a lifetime in a lap.”Brad was clawing at the windows, begging to get out.”On Hamilton’s role in the new movie, Kosinski added: “He opened all those doors for us into that world.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We would not have been able to do this without him.”Hamilton is ready for hit to break box office records, saying: “It’s going to blow away anything that’s ever been done in Formula One before.”Hamilton is playing a key role in the new film F1Credit: Getty More

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    ‘As an American I’m ashamed’ – Donald Trump slammed by former Premier League manager over ‘ridiculous’ comments

    FORMER Leeds boss and current Canada manager Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald Trump in an astonishing rant. American-born Marsch is “ashamed” of Trump’s repeated comments about making Canada a 51st state.Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald TrumpPresident Trump has repeatedly joked about Canada becoming a 51st stateTensions have been rising between the neighbouring countries following Trump’s 51st state remarks, including proposed trade tariffs between the bordering nations.Marsch took charge of Canada in May 2024 and could face the US in the final of the CONCACAF Nations League next month.But the Wisconsin-born gaffer has hit back at Trump “insulting rhetoric” at the Concacaf Nations League media day in Los Angeles on Wednesday.Marsch, 51, said: “If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies.”These international tournaments, for Canada, mean something different now.”Canada is a strong, independent nation that is deep-rooted in decency and it’s a place that values high ethics and respect.”Unlike the polarised, disrespectful and often now hateful climate that is in the US.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCanada and the US recently met across two fixtures in the 4 Nations ice hockey competition, with the former winning the final 3-2.The politically-charged nature of the tournament was hard to avoid.Lionel Messi fined after grabbing the neck of a New York City assistant coachTheir first game descended into chaos with three fights breaking out between players in the first nine seconds, while the US national anthem was loudly booed.American supporters also jeered the Canadian anthem, which was sung with different lyrics in protest about Trump’s statements.After Canada won in overtime, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X: “You can’t take our country – and you can’t take our game.”Marsch added: “When I look forward to a month from now I know this will fuel our team, the mentality and will that we have to play for our country.”The desire to go after this tournament in every way and to show on and off the pitch exactly what Canadian character is.”The politically-charged nature of the 4 Nations hockey tournament was hard to avoidMarsch has won six of his 13 games in charge of Canada, who are seeking their first piece of silverware since 2000 in the Nations League.Canada meet Mexico in the semi-finals on 21 March and the winner will face either the US or Panama in the CONCACAF final two days later.Marsch – who previously coached the US team in 2011, before a successful career in the MLS – has quickly taken to Canadian culture.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe sings the national anthem and has plans to eventually move to Canada ahead of the 2026 World Cup.The US, Canada and Mexico will share hosting duties in two years time. More

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    Lewis Hamilton, 40, addresses relationship status in rare statement as he discusses F1 future

    LEWIS HAMILTON insists he is still fully focused on Formula One – despite experiencing a difficult few years.The seven-time world champion, who turned 40 last month, is embarking on a brand new era with Ferrari.Lewis Hamilton insists he is still hungry to win in F1Credit: GettyHaving spent 11 years with Mercedes, he left in December to join the Italian team on a multi-year deal.Before he completed the switch, Mercedes chief Toto Wolff appeared to take aim at the Brit, suggesting: “Everyone has a shelf life.”Although Wolff later claimed the quote had been taken out of context, Hamilton was keen to respond in a recent interview with TIME Magazine.The Brit insisted that his journey has made him unique in his own right.READ MORE IN F1He said: “Don’t ever compare me to anybody else. I’m the first and only Black driver that’s ever been in this sport.”I’m built different. I’ve been through a lot. I’ve had my own journey.”Hamilton also briefly touched on his life away from the track, adding: “You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history. Because they are nothing like me.”I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No.1 priority.”Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHamilton’s most public relationship was with Nicole SherzingerCredit: GettyThe F1 icon likes to keep his personal life private for the most part.His most public relationship was with Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Sherzinger.Inside Lewis Hamilton’s first day at Ferrari as he instantly surprises new bosses at first official day of F1 testing After having an on/off romance that spanned seven years, they eventually called it quits in 2016.Hamilton has also been in rumoured relationships with other celebrities in the past, including Rita Ora, Barbara Palvin, Winnie Harlow and Danielle Lloyd.In 2023 he was romantically linked with Colombian singer Shakira, but their relationship never went past the friend zone.And last month he was spotted on a dinner date with actress Sofia Vergara.He was also rumoured to be in a relationship with Rita OraCredit: Getty More

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    Arsenal set to appoint new sporting director in days with five names in frame including Dan Ashworth after Man Utd axe

    ARSENAL are planning to hire a new sporting director to replace Edu Gaspar next month.Edu, 46, resigned in November after five years with the Gunners who appointed their former player as the club’s first ever technical director in 2019 before his promotion as sporting director in 2022.Dan Ashworth is among the names Arsenal are considering for a new sporting directorCredit: PAArsenal are looking for a replacement for Edu GasparCredit: GettyThe Brazilian executive is now expected to link up with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ new group, which also includes reigning Conference League winners Olympiacos and Rio Ave.According to The Athletic, the North Londoners are rigorously searching for Edu’s successor and are in the process of whittling down candidates before reaching a final decision.The likes of Dan Ashworth, Andrea Berta, Roberto Olabe and Thiago Scuro are among the names that have been discussed internally.The same goes for Arsenal interim sporting director Jason Ayto, who was promoted after Edu’s departure.Read More on ArsenalParis Saint-Germain strategic advisor Luis Campos was also linked but is not actually in the frame.The Premier League giants’ owners KSE are heavily involved and a final call will not be made without their approval.Ashworth has been a free agent since his sudden departure from Manchester United in December after just five months in the job despite his previous employers splashing £3million to Newcastle for his services.The ex-Man Utd chief enjoyed tremendous success at Brighton, whom he turned into a competitive Premier League side, and Newcastle, where he signed Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAyto has been with Arsenal for a decade and worked under Edu as his assistant for two years.He was heavily involved with talks that led to the signing of Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori last summer.Nuno thanks the fans after solid defensive performance against ArsenalBerta is one of the main figures that turned Atletico Madrid into LaLiga and Champions League challengers thanks to his stunning 12-year stint working with manager Diego Simeone until his exit last month.The Italian signed the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Jan Oblak as well as Rodri and recently spent time in London learning English as he is targeting a job in the Prem.Olabe is set to step down from his role as sporting director at Real Sociedad this summer.The Spaniard signed the likes of Merino, Isak, Martin Odegaard and David Silva during his seven-year spell at Sociedad – he also worked out deals with Arsenal involving Kieran Tierney and Nacho Monreal.Scuro has been with Monaco since 2023 where he was promoted as CEO after helping the club finish second last season for the first time since 2018.Arsenal ratings vs Forest as NOBODY looks like scoring for Gunners but Saliba’s a Rolls Royce againMIKEL ARTETA may not have anyone to put the ball in the back of the net but in William Saliba he has one of the best defenders in the Prem.The Arsenal boss watched his side’s faint title hopes go well and truly up in smoke in the goalless draw with Nottingham Forest.But his brilliant backline emerged, once again, with credit from this tricky clash at the City Ground.Together with Gabriel, Saliba kept a tight lid on Forest dangerman Chris Wood, who scored a hat-trick in his last appearance on this ground.But the fact the Gunners’ biggest threat at the other end of the pitch came from left-back Riccardo Calafiori – who was subbed off at half-time – says it all about the dire situation Arsenal somehow find themselves in.Here is how SunSport’s Graeme Bryce rated the Gunners stars’ displays… More

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    Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 26: European specialists and FA Cup wildcards

    DREAM TEAM managers have until 6:30pm on Friday to confirm their transfers for Gameweek 26.As usual, we’ve trawled the Stats Centre and analysed the schedule to come up with some informed recommendations.Forget Man United’s performances and focus on their skipper’s individual outputCredit: Dream TeamBruno Fernandes (£6.2m)Manchester United’s captain is an excellent option for a number of reasons.Firstly, his rescue jobs against Everton and Ipswich produced more points (27) than any other player managed in Gameweek 25.Secondly, the Red Devils are one of just two teams set to play two fixtures this coming Gameweek: Fulham (h) and Real Sociedad (a).More broadly, Man United will play FIVE times before the March international break – some teams will be in action just twice in the same time frame.And thirdly, Fernandes has risen to third in the overall rankings and first among midfielders!Ollie Watkins (£5.2m)A popular recruit this weekCredit: PAAston Villa are the other club set to pull double duty this coming Gameweek.The Villains will host Cardiff on Friday night before flying to Belgium to take on Club Brugge in the Champions League round of 16.There’s no guarantee Watkins will be unleashed upon Championship opposition as Unai Emery may opt to rotate his squad but the England striker will almost certainly start in Bruges and is therefore a good selection either way.Most read in FootballAlternatively, you might want to target Villa’s FA Cup game and view the European away day as a bonus.Might Marcus Rashford (£3.4m) start against Cardiff and then come off the bench in midweek?Marco Asensio (£3.2m) bagged 17 points in Gameweek 25 and should get his fair share of minutes across the two games.And of course, Morgan Rogers (£3.8m) remains a strong option having recovered from a minor injury and scored against Crystal Palace.Dominik Szoboszlai (£4.3m)Hungary for moreCredit: RexLiverpool have just one fixture in Gameweek 26 and a tricky one at that; PSG in the French capital on Wednesday night.Gone are the days of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe but Luis Enrique’s side are a dangerous prospect at present having won 14 of their last 15 games in all competitions.Ousmane Dembele and company racked up an aggregate score of 10-0 over Brest in the play-offs to reach the Champions League last 16.All that being said, Arne Slot’s side finished top of the league phase in Europe’s premier competition and are cruising towards Premier League glory.Mohamed Salah (£8.3m), Trent Alexander-Arnold (£5.7m) and Virgil van Dijk (£4.6m) are the bankers but Dream Team bosses searching for a potential difference-maker among Liverpool’s squad should consider Szoboszlai.The Hungarian No8 has amassed 52 points in his last six games and currently features in just 6.8% of teams.Daniel Munoz (£5.1m) and/or Jean-Philippe Mateta (£4.7m)Firmly back among the goalsCredit: ReutersGaffers hoping to target an FA Cup mismatch should look to Selhurst Park.Oliver Glasner tends to name strong sides in the domestic cups and so it would be no surprise if Munoz and Mateta, two of the game’s most in-form players right now, started at home to Millwall on Saturday.The Lions are currently 12th in the Championship and should be no match for a Palace outfit that have improved immeasurably since the first quarter of the campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIESMunoz ranks joint-third among Dream Team defenders – he took 15 points off Doncaster in the FA Cup fourth round – while only Salah has earned more points than Mateta from his last three outings among forwards.These don’t need to be one-week punts either as the Eagles are due to face relegation-threatened Ipswich in Gameweek 27. More