More stories

  • in

    ‘It’s petrifying’ – Glam F1 hopeful Bianca Bustamente, 20, lifts lid on ‘scary’ fight to thrive in male-dominated sport

    MOTORSPORT’S most glamorous driver has opened up on the “scary” nature of her incredible dual career.Bianca Bustamante is hoping to become one of the biggest names in racing alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.McLaren development driver Bianca Bustamante has three-million social media followers combinedCredit: Instagram @racerbiaBustamante has made history by becoming McLaren’s first female driverCredit: Instagram @racerbiaBustamante earned two podium finishes in the debut F1 Academy seasonCredit: GettyHer first podium coincided with Lando Norris’ maiden race win in DecemberCredit: GettyThe 20-year-old beauty will start a mixed sex race at the GB3 Championship at Silverstone next weekendCredit: McLarenBustamante splits her time between racing podiums for McLaren in an all-female category AND professional modelling.And the 20-year-old beauty will start a mixed sex race at the GB3 Championship at Silverstone next weekend.The race is a feeder event for young drivers hoping to progress to elite motorsport and even Formula One.Bustamante was the first woman to be accepted into the prestigious McLaren Driver Development Programme in 2024.READ MORE MOTORSPORTBut it hasn’t come easy for the Filipino driver, who is the poster girl of Netflix’s new docuseries F1 Academy alongside 14 other female drivers.The self-starter – who was on the cover of Vogue – has been able to fund her passion for F1 and buy her dream London flat through brand deals.As well as modelling for Storm Management, Bustamante has more than three million followers on Instagram.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSShe told Mail Sport: “It’s petrifying to be an open book for everyone on social media.Most read in Motorsport”I have used it as a platform to fund my career and to help me progress on the motorsport ladder.McLaren F1 racer Bianca Bustamante reveals how she gets in shape for her races – and why she almost quit”I grew up in front of three million people across all my social media platforms and I find it very scary sometimes.”It can be worrying to lose myself along the way. Lose my sights and morals and who I really am.”Bustamante was born and raised in the Philippines, a country with no recognisable history or heritage of motorsport. She was introduced to her first go-kart at age three by her racing-mad dad Raymund and it was love at first sight. On Monday, she was named by Forbes as one of the 30-under-30 record-breaking athletes for her achievements in F1.While F1 is predominantly a male-dominated sport, there have been a few female drivers who have entered Grand Prix races.The Filipino driver lifts heavy weights as part of a gruelling training regimeCredit: Instagram @racerbiaShe has starred in Vogue PhilippinesShe was named by Forbes as one of the 30-under-30 record-breaking athletes for her achievements in F1Credit: CBR MediaShe boasts three million followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @racerbiaMaria Teresa de Filippis was the first, followed by Lella Lombardi, Divina Galica, Desire Wilson and Giovanna Amati.But De Filippis and Lombardi are the only women to have started an F1 race, with the latter the only one to score points in her 12 starts.I find it very scary sometimes.BustamanteThe MailBustamante told The Mail: “This new step up still feels so new to me.”I get in the car and I still feel like I know nothing. I feel like a rookie every single time, which I am I guess.”That step from junior driver to being professional now as we go into the GB3 season… people talk to me like I’m no longer a kid, I’m an adult.”Working with the new team is amazing. It’s my first time working with a British team.”I’ve got teammates that are like brothers to me now.”Lella Lombardi is the only female driver to score points in F1Credit: Getty Images – GettyA picture of Lando Norris and Bustamante grinning ear to ear at the Miami Grand Prix in May summarises the family feel at McLaren. She sealed her first-ever F1 Academy podium on the same weekend that Norris secured his maiden race win,Read More on The SunBefore McLaren announced her signing, she became only the second ever driver to compete in the newly launched all-female F1 Academy series with Prema Racing.She made the podium, finishing third in her first race and seventh in the final championship standings. More

  • in

    Lewis Hamilton’s beloved dog Roscoe suffering from pneumonia as caretaker gives health update

    LEWIS HAMILTON’S beloved dog Roscoe is suffering from pneumonia.And the dog’s caretaker issued a health update on the hound.Lewis Hamilton’s dog has pneumoniaCredit: instagramRoscoe is currently receiving medication for the illnessCredit: Instagram @roscoelovescocoRoscoe has regularly attended F1 races over the yearsCredit: GettyRoscoe the bulldog is looked after by animal lover and trainer Kirstin McMillan while Hamilton travels the world as a Formula One driver.But a social media update revealed he is currently unwell. McMillan revealed vegan Roscoe has been diagnosed with pneumonia. However, the canine is being treated with medication – and even receiving acupuncture treatment, too.READ MORE ON SPORTAnd the expectation is he will recover because the illness is not too serious. In an Instagram story, McMillan showed Roscoe devouring a sweet potato and peanut butter dog treat. She then recorded a video to update fans on the famous dog. McMillan said: “Roscoe, because I know you are going to ask, he is going to his vet today.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”This is a vet that practises veterinary medicine where she combines Eastern and Western, that’s an intergrative pet practice. “So she’s a real vet, she went to Davis and everything, but she went for a few years of additional training in holistic methods, Chinese medicine, accupuncture and things like that. Inside Lewis Hamilton’s birthday celebrations for beloved dog Roscoe with special cake and chilling out with movie”What she is going to do with him today is a high-dose Vitamin C IV drop and this is supportive care. “This is in addition to the strong antibiotics that he is correctly on for his pneumonia.”And she’ll do acupuncture on him. So this supports him.”Roscoe has been a constant companion for seven-time F1 world champ Hamilton over the years, regularly rocking up at tracks with his owner. He has more than 1.1million Instagram followers and his latest post on Monday night in America showed the pooch – who gets an annual birthday party – lying on a sandy beach in the sunshine.Plenty of fans took to the comments to wish Roscoe well.One said: “Get well soon. We love our favourite beach boy way too much!!”Another wrote: “Feel a whole lot better soon sweet boy.”A third added: “Get well soon Roscoe, we love you.”Read More on The SunAnd a final user replied: “Oo Roscoe my love, you are better sunbathing, vitamin D, fresh air on the beach. Take care of yourself, I hope you get better, I love you.”Hamilton currently sits seventh in the F1 drivers’ standings after four races with Ferrari – but was disqualified from the Chinese Grand Prix. Kirstin McMillan gave fans an update on Roscoe’s healthCredit: Instagram @adventuresindogtrainingA video on Instagram showed the dog eating a treatCredit: Instagram @adventuresindogtrainingHe went to the vet for acupunctureCredit: Instagram @adventuresindogtraining More

  • in

    Stunning £950,000 apartment put up for sale at iconic race track with room for EIGHT cars… but no bedroom

    A LUXURY apartment that overlooks an iconic Formula One track has been put up for sale – but it does not have any bedrooms.The property is on the market for £950,000 ($1.25million) having been built last year.An apartment that overlooks Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas has been put up for saleCredit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesThe apartment costs £950,000 ($1.25m)Credit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesThe spacious two-floor property has an open kitchen-living area as well as a modern mezzanineCredit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesIt has one bathroom but no bedroomCredit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesIt overlooks the prestigious Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas – home to the USA Grand Prix since 2012.The 2,250 sq ft, two-floor apartment is located at turn 11 of the track.It boasts one bathroom and an open kitchen-living area as well as a modern mezzanine which overlooks the entrance to a huge garage, also included in the price.The private garage has space for six to eight vehicles with a charging area and remote doors.READ MORE ON F1However, the property does NOT have a bedroom.On the apartment, COTA told Luxury Auto News: “We are introducing the T11 Car Community at Circuit of the Americas, the only automotive enclave in North America located on a purpose-built Formula 1 track.”Owners can customise their units or opt for a COTA Interior Upgrade with designer finishes and top-tier appliances.”With five floor plans accommodating 4-24 vehicles, this exclusive development offers an unmatched experience for car enthusiasts, combining premier automotive culture with world-class amenities and track access at an iconic racing venue.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt also has a garage with space for six to eight vehiclesCredit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesThe garage has its own charging areaCredit: Jam Press/Moreland propertiesThe property was built last yearCredit: Jam Press/Moreland properties”Beyond the garage, T11 is just steps from COTA’s amphitheater, go-karting, mini-golf, and the highly anticipated amusement park.”Making this community not only a haven for auto connoisseurs, but a destination for everyone.”The next USA Grand Prix is set to take place on October 19 this year.Sun F1 reporter Isabelle Barker tries Lewis Hamilton’s favourite spaghetti cooked by three Michelin star chef at Bahrain Grand PrixTHE new Formula One season is up and running and has already seen huge drama in the opening weeks.A massive summer of change saw Lewis Hamilton move on from Mercedes and join Ferrari, while the McLaren pair of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have hope of ending Max Verstappen’s recent dominance.The Red Bull ace is hoping for a record-equalling FIFTH consecutive world title.INFORMATIONLATEST NEWSSEASON SO FAR More

  • in

    Tai Woffinden walks for first time after coma as Speedway star reveals horror list of injuries after terrifying crash

    TAI WOFFINDEN is already WALKING just ten days after coming out of a coma following a horror crash.The three-time World Champion has also listed the alarming amount of injuries he sustained in a dreadful speedway pile-up a fortnight ago.Tai Woffinden is incredibly walking again just ten days after his horror crashCredit: SuppliedThe British speedway legend was caught up in a horror accident during a race in PolandCredit: XWoffinden had to be airlifted to hospitalWoffy, 34, was airlifted to hospital in Krosno, Poland and underwent emergency surgery after suffering numerous fractures and a chest injury. He was put in a medically induced coma as he recovered from three major operations.But in a new social media post on Monday, he is seen taking his first steps on a walking frame with wife Faye.He also revealed his full injury list that included a broken back, a double compound right femur fracture and 12 broken ribs.READ MORE IN MOTORSPORTWoffinden told fans that he needs more time to absorb the magnitude of his injuries.He said: “Hey guys, turns out my injuries and an induced coma ain’t no joke.“I’m on the mend, but please bear with me for now. I just need a little more time to rest and gather my thoughts. I’ll update you all later on in the week.“Please know how much I appreciate everyone’s love and support from all over the world.”Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKWoffinden’s diagnosis Tai Woffinden is walking just ten days after his horror crash and coma.He suffered:Double compound right femur fracture (pinned and bolted)Broken back TH9 plated and screwed to TH8 & TH10Right humerus compound fractureDislocated + smashed right elbow12 broken ribs Punctured lungLeft broken shoulder bladeDislocated left shoulderWoffy added it is “wild typing all that out, think that’s about it.”After flying from Australia to Poland to be by his side, Faye and the speedway icon’s mum Sue penned an emotional message, writing: “Tai has been through more than we can even begin to imagine.”Multiple broken bones, major surgeries, blood transfusions – his body has endured so much. Ex-World Speedway Champion Tai Woffinden airlifted to hospital after horrifying crash“And yet, his spirit stays strong. So does our hope. We’re holding on tightly, believing that each day will bring more healing, more strength, and more of him back to us.“The love, kindness, and support we’ve received from all of you has been overwhelming in the most beautiful way. There truly aren’t words to express how deeply grateful we are.“While we hesitate to name individuals for fear of missing anyone, we want to extend our deepest thanks to those who played a part in saving Tai.“To the special person we cannot name, whose quick actions arranged the helicopter to the track so promptly, and to the medical team inside who cared for Tai before he even reached the hospital —you gave him a fighting chance, and we will never forget that.“To Dr. Paweł Jasiński, for organizing every surgery and ensuring Tai has the best possible team. To Rafał Roger Piątek, who has not only been by Tai’s side but also ours through it all. To Basia Karczewska, for her constant support and kindness.“To the incredible doctors and medical team in Rzeszów. To the Stal Rzeszów team, especially Paweł Piskorz and Michał Drymajło your unwavering support means everything.Read More on The Sun“To our family, our friends, and every single person who has reached out, offered help, or simply held us in their thoughts – thank you. From the bottom of our hearts. “Your love has carried us through the darkest moments. We will never forget it.”His wife Faye has flown from Australia to be by his sideCredit: Instagram @fayewoffinden More

  • in

    Michael Schumacher’s ‘sweet chopper trip to meet first granddaughter’ REVEALED as stricken star ‘dashed to join family’

    MICHAEL Schumacher’s heart warming trip to meet his first granddaughter has been revealed. The legendary Formula One driver flew from his family’s villa in Majorca to their Swiss mansion in a chopper to join his daughter before the birth. Michael Schumacher flew to meet his new granddaughter in SwitzerlandCredit: InstagramThe F1 star became a grandad after his daughter Gina gave birth to baby Millie in MarchCredit: GettyDaughter Gina announced the birth of baby Millie on InstagramCredit: Instagram @ gina_schumacher’s profile picture gina_schumacherGina and husband Iain Bethke were married last year and have now welcomed their first childCredit: InstagramSchumacher took a chopper from the family villa in Majorca to the mansion in SwitzerlandSchumacher’s daughter Gina, 28, became a mother for the first time on March 29 making her parents Michael and Corinna grandparents. Gina welcomed baby Millie to the world in a post on Instagram.The caption read: “Welcome to the world, Millie. Born on March 29th, our hearts are fuller than ever.”We are beyond blessed to have you in our lives. #welcomeMillie.”read more on Formula OneGina’s comments section was flooded with messages of congratulations and well wishes.Messages from the likes of the Mercedes F1 team and Max Verstappen’s mother were amongst the comments.Schumacher, 56, rushed back to his Swiss residence a few days before the birth to join his family for the special moment.The star’s family reportedly hope that the exciting news will give him hope as he battles with his health, according to Bild. Most read in MotorsportThe young family will spend some time in the US with Gina set to compete in western riding tournaments in Las Vegas in August. The F1 legend’s daughter is a well-known figure in the Western riding world and has competed in various prestigious events. Michael Schumacher security guard ‘tried to blackmail stricken F1 star for £12million so he could pay off his debts’Gina revealed she was pregnant shortly after tying the knot to partner Iain Bethke at a villa in Majorca last year.There was speculation at the time that her seven-time F1 champion dad attended the wedding, but there was no proof.Schumacher has not been seen in public since he suffered a serious head injury after a skiing accident in December 2013 in the French Alps.Michael was left in a coma for 250 days and is believed to have needed around-the-clock care ever since.Since then, Schumacher’s wife Corinna has been creating a private world around Michael as he continues his recovery.This includes forming a close group of people who are allowed to see the icon.Anyone else is not allowed to see him for fear of his private life being leaked.Read More on The SunLast year Schumacher’s son Mick is thought to have trusted girlfriend Laila Hasonovic with becoming part of the family’s close circle.The 24-year-old was reportedly given a vote of confidence by the Schumachers to see Michael early last year.Schumacher and his wife Corinna are grandparents for the first timeCredit: AlamySchumacher has not been seen in public since he suffered a serious head injury after a skiing accident in 2013Credit: Getty More

  • in

    ‘The concern is great’ – Red Bull advisor issues worrying Max Verstappen update as contract clause emerges

    MAX VERSTAPPEN could leave Red Bull due to a clause in his contract, the team’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has revealed.The reigning Formula One world champion sits third in the World Drivers Championship standings and eight points off of top spot after a disappointing sixth-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix.Helmut Marko has said there is ‘great concern’ about Max Verstappen leaving Red BullCredit: GettyVerstappen has a clause in his contract stating he can leave if they do not provide a winning carCredit: GettyRed Bull have long suffered with pace problems compared to constructor champions McLaren, whose drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri – the winner in Bahrain – sit first and second in the drivers championship.Verstappen had one of his greatest-ever drives in F1 to win the Japanese Grand Prix earlier this month.But that performance was largely propped up by claiming pole position while a lack of tyre degradation and the narrow Suzuka track meant overtaking was next to impossible in the race.Regardless, performance issues this season – which Verstappen has highlighted as balance issues making the car unpredictable on corner entry and giving it mid-corner understeer – have left the Dutchman fuming.READ MORE IN F1And it could prompt the 27-year-old to consider his future with the team.According to BBC Sport, a clause written into his contract, which runs until 2026, says they have to provide him with a winning car or else he is free to leave.Team advisor Marko has suggested there is currently “great concern” over Verstappen’s future in F1 with Red Bull owing to the performance issues they are facing.Marko, 81, told Sky Germany: “The concern is great. Improvements have to come in the near future so that he has a car with which he can win again.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”We have to create a basis with a car so that he can fight for the world championship.”Verstappen has won four titles in a row with Red Bull but appears to have an uphill task to score an unprecedented fifth this season.Verstappen’s excruciating reaction to Jack Whitehall gag at F1 new season launch event Speaking to the BBC in March, Marko said: “We have this huge motivation to achieve this fifth title.”We also know that if we don’t deliver for Max, all the top drivers have performance clauses in their contract…”The whole team is focused to achieve this fifth title which we didn’t make with [Sebastian] Vettel but this time there is a possibility.”After Verstappen’s P6 finish in Bahrain, senior figures at Red Bull including team principal Christian Horner, technical director, Pierre Waché, chief engineer, Paul Monaghan and advisor Marko held a crisis meeting.It was also reported by Sky Sport’s Ted Kravitz that Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, was seen angrily confronting Marko in the team’s garage after the race. The Bahrain race was also underlined by two slow pit stops for Verstappen, something Red Bull are usually top of the class for.Verstappen has been linked to both Mercedes and Aston Martin, with the latter being forced to deny a report in January suggesting they would offer the F1 ace a package worth £1billion.Read More on The SunWith new engine and chassis regulations set to come into play in 2026, Verstappen could jump ship from Red Bull during a pivotal time for F1.Aston Martin have recruited former Red Bull designer Adrian Newey into their ranks for the era, while Mercedes are widely accepted to currently be in the best position to take advantage of the new rules. More

  • in

    Awkward moment Lewis Hamilton appears to snub FIA president’s hug as drivers left at war with F1 governing body

    LEWIS HAMILTON appeared to reject a hug from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem in an awkward moment after the Bahrain Grand Prix.The seven-time world champion has clashed with the FIA president since he was appointed in 2021.Lewis Hamilton appeared to reject a big hug from FIA President Mohammed Ben SulayemFans spotted the awkward encounter, but Hamilton did acknowledge him as he walked pastAfter his tough start to life at Ferrari, Hamilton enjoyed a positive race in Bahrain, winning the fans’ Driver of the Day vote.He recovered from a disappointing P9 qualifying performance to finish fifth, one spot behind team-mate Charles Leclerc. And the 40-year-old ace overtook the likes of Kimi Antonelli, Pierre Gasly and Max Verstappen in the process.After stepping out of the cockpit in Parc Ferme, Hamilton headed toward the weighbridge to complete his mandatory post-race checks.READ MORE F1 NEWSBut fans caught a somewhat thorny exchange when the Brit came across Ben Sulayem along the way.The FIA president had his arms outstretched while waiting to embrace the Ferrari driver. However, Hamilton had other ideas and avoided the hug before simply giving him a pat on the side before continuing on his way.One fan wrote: “Lewis airing Ben Sulayem there 😂😂.”Most read in MotorsportA dominant drive from pole saw Oscar Piastri claim victory in Sakhir on Sunday, ahead of George Russell and Lando Norris.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut there have been rumours that Hamilton and Ben Sulayem don’t see eye-to-eye.The former Mercedes driver called out the FIA chief after the short-lived investigation into Susie Wolff last season. Lewis Hamilton hailed for ‘masterclass’ sprint victory before Ferrari star immediately takes aim at ‘yapping’ criticsThat decision landed the Emirati official in hot water, with the wife of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff commencing legal action against the sport’s governing body.And Hamilton was asked whether Ben Sulayem had his support before the 2024 Aussie Grand Prix.The Brit replied bluntly: “He never has. There is a real lack of accountability here, within this sport, within the FIA.”There are things that are happening behind closed doors, there is no transparency, there is really no accountability and we need that.”The fans need that. How can you trust the sport and what is happening here if you don’t have that?”Last year, Hamilton doubled down on his criticism of Ben Sulayem after the FIA president compared swearing F1 drivers to “rappers”. The 62-year-old has been on a mission to stamp out foul language in the paddock, much to the disdain of some of the sport’s stars.The feud between Hamilton and Ben Sulayem first dates back to 2022.When the FIA chief forced the Brit to remove a nose stud, clamping down on jewellery at the race track. He later fined Hamilton £42,000 for skipping the end-of-season prize-giving gala, after Verstappen was handed the title following a hugely controversial decision at 2021 Abu Dhabi finale.FIA executive Robert Reid resigned last week over what he described as a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards”.Ben Sulayem has been under fire in the last few years, following various controversies including the FIA’s swearing rules.Reid said in his resignation letter: “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power.”A few days ago at Suzuka, Carlos Sainz was punished for being “five seconds late” to the national anthem in Japan following a toilet break.Read More on The Sun Sainz reported to the FIA medical team with a stomach issue, but was fined £17,000, half of which has been suspended for 12 months providing he does not re-offend.But the Spaniard, 30, now faces an even bigger one for saying “s*** happens in response”.THE new Formula One season is up and running and has already seen huge drama in the opening weeks.A massive summer of change saw Lewis Hamilton move on from Mercedes and join Ferrari, while the McLaren pair of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have hope of ending Max Verstappen’s recent dominance.The Red Bull ace is hoping for a record-equalling FIFTH consecutive world title.INFORMATIONLATEST NEWSSEASON SO FAR More

  • in

    Heart-stopping moment rally car DESTROYS house after smashing into it at full speed as terrified fans watch on

    THIS is the terrifying moment a rally car destroyed a house after smashing into it at full speed.The heart-stopping incident occurred at the weekend during the 41st Tenerife North Rally.A rally car destroyed a house during a crazy crashThe incident occurred in Tenerife during stormy conditionsThe Canary Island paradise was struck by heavy rain and fog instead of its usual glorious sunshine.And it had a profound effect on the race, which sees drivers from around the globe compete on narrow roads with tight turns.Spectators gathered at their homes to watch cars sail past at mind-boggling speeds.But with the wet conditions, slick surfaces resulted in two dramatic crashes at the SAME spot.READ MORE IN SPORTThe first saw Russian driver Alexey Lukyanuk slide across the road before crashing into the side of an uninhabited house.Judges paused the race momentarily to inspect the conditions before allowing the competition to resume.But later, the exact same spot saw another crash.This time, Canary Island local Yeray Lemes’ car skidded at the exact same spot.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAmazing video footage showed the vehicle bounce off one house before ploughing into the same uninhabited building as Lukyanuk.But after taking a second bashing, the house dramatically collapsed on itself, leaving spectators stunned.Spanish goalie Santiago Canizares goes off the road in his Suzuki in stunning Rally race crashOne said: “Dude wtf.”Another declared: “Who pays for the damages in this case?”One noted: “Stayed in a Villa 200 metres down the hill, those roads are crazy tight.”Another added: “What a completely predictable outcome.”Meanwhile, another accident saw driver Jan Cerny forced to retire from the race.But the Tenerife rally was eventually won by Sergio Fuentes and Teocrice Hernandez. More