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    F1 Japanese Grand Prix LIVE: Stream, TV channel as Verstappen closes in on championship win – Qualifying updates

    FORMULA ONE action returns at top speed with the racers battling it out at the Japanese Grand Prix.Max Verstappen surrendered the opportunity to clinch a second successive championship win in Singapore last weekend.
    However, the Red Bull driver will get a second bite of the cherry on the Suzuka Circuit.

    Qualifying: 7am UK
    Race: Sunday, October 9 – 6am UK
    Live stream: Now TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports F1

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    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
    What Max Verstappen has said
    Max Verstappen will be aware of how close he is from securing a second successive championship.
    But the iconic F1 racer realises that he has a tough task at the Japanese GP with the ever-changing weather conditions.
    Luckily it wasn’t a complete disaster with the weather at least we could get around and do a little bit of stuff. In terms of knowing where you are with pace, in the wet, it’s always a bit tricky.
    We did the basic things (to learn) and not more than that so that’s why I’m looking forward to tomorrow to see how we can be in the dry.
    How Verstappen can win the title 
    Verstappen has one hand on the F1 title and he can incredibly clinch it without finishing first. 
    But it would require him scoring a minimum of eight points more than Leclerc and a minimum of six more than Perez.
    If the Red Bull racer was to finish second, Leclerc would have to rank fifth or higher to keep the title alive.
    Verstappen finishing third with the fastest lap bonus point will mean Leclerc having to chart fifth or higher or Perez needs to finish a minimum of fourth to deny him.
    But a third place finish without the bonus point means sixth place for Leclerc or fourth place for Perez would be enough for the title race to go beyond the weekend.
    Fourth for Verstappen would see Leclerc needing only seventh place and fifth means that Leclerc just needs to avoid falling below eighth on the leaderboards to survive another day.
    Crash but no burn
    Here is the major talking point of the Practice sessions. Thankfully Mick Schumacher escaped the car with no injuries.
    But my guess is that Haas will need to supply him with a new car. 
    Credit: Rex
    Current F1 standings
    Here are the current top ten in the 2022 standings:

    Max Verstappen – 341 points
    Charles Leclerc – 237 points
    Sergio Perez – 235 points
    George Russell – 203 points
    Carlos Sainz – 202 points
    Lewis Hamilton – 170 points
    Lando Norris – 100 points
    Esteban Ocon – 66 points
    Fernando Alonso – 59 points
    Valterri Bottas – 46 points

    Welcome to the Japanese Grand Prix 
    Congratulations if you managed to drag yourself out of bed to tune in for this very early coverage of the Japanese GP Practice & Qualffying. We will make it worth it.
    The rain in yesterday’s Practice sessions added to the ever-present drama in Formula 1. 
    We had Mercedes duo George Russell and Lewis Hamilton seal a one-two in Practice Two.
    Mick Schumacher CRASHED out of Practice and completely damaged his Haas car
    And we even witnessed Michael Latiffi take a wrong turn during the second session, meeting with a dead end due to his visibility on the track.
    But the Canadian cannot afford to do something like that again as today is the last chance for all the racers to get a good spot in Sunday’s race which, judging today’s weather, could be very difficult to overtake.
    Keep up to date with our live blog as we will have ALL the latest gossip from Qualifying right through until the big race in Suzuka.
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    Model Sara Pagliaroli plays with her hair as she wows in sexy pink bikini

    MODEL Sara Pagliaroli plays with her hair and shows it’s no time to dye.The girlfriend of Formula 1 driver Lance Stroll posed in the pink two-piece for Wikini & Woxer.
    Sara Pagliaroli posed and played with her hair while wearing a pink bikiniCredit: Wikini & Woxer
    Italian Sara, 27, and Canadian driver Lance, 23, started dating last year.
    They went public at the premiere of James Bond’s No Time To Die, and have been inseparable since.
    At 18, Lance became the second-youngest F1 driver with a podium finish.
    He will line up on the grid tomorrow at the Japanese Grand Prix.
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    Italian Sara has been inseparable from Lance Stroll since they began datingCredit: Instagram
    Lance went public with Sara at the James Bond premiere last yearCredit: Getty More

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    Hilarious moment F1 star Nicholas Latifi takes a WRONG TURN at rainy Japanese GP leaving his Williams at dead end

    NICHOLAS LATIFI’S shocking season went from bad to worse when he took a WRONG TURN during a rainy FP2 at the Japanese Grand Prix.The Williams driver is yet to score a single point yet this season.
    Nicholas Latifi took a wrong turn during FP2 of the Japanese GPCredit: sky sports
    The Williams driver went down a dead endCredit: sky sports
    Latifi responded to the mishap by saying his car felt “strange”Credit: EPA

    Williams also confirmed last month that the Canadian driver, 27, will be leaving the team when his contract expires at the end of the campaign.
    But with five races left on the calendar, there is still time for Latifi to go out with a bang.
    Although it looks unlikely that he will be able to do anything special at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan after he had problems remembering the layout of the track.
    During FP2 Latifi hilariously swerved right way before the final chicane and ended up down a dead end.
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    He was forced to do a U-turn when faced by the barriers after seemingly getting confused by the track layout.
    Latifi blamed the car for the mishap, saying over the radio: “The car feels strange.”
    But F1 fans weren’t buying it.
    One joked on social media: “Love how he say ‘car felt strange’ styled that one out.”
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    Another wrote with laughing emojis: “Tried to blame car as well.”
    In Latifi’s defence, torrential rain made for awful conditions in Japan with visibility almost impossible for the drivers.
    And it wasn’t just him who struggled.
    Mick Schumacher lost control and wrecked his car after spinning out at turn seven due to the soggy surface.
    Mick Schumacher spun out and hit the well due to the wet conditionsCredit: Reuters More

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    Phil Read dead at 83: Seven-time motorcycle GP world champion and ‘Prince of Speed’ passes away as tributes pour in

    PHIL READ has died aged 83, his family have confirmed.The seven-time motorcycle GP world champion passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday.
    Legendary racer Phil Read has passed awayCredit: Getty
    Read remained involved in the sport as he got olderCredit: Getty
    Read was a legendary figure in motorcycle racing – winning Yamaha’s first ever world championship title in 1964.
    He would go on to add four more with the Japanese-Italian team before adding another pair in 1973 and 1974 for MV Agusta.
    Read’s achievements led to him receiving an MBE in 1979 for for “services to motor cycle racing”.
    In a statement posted online, the Read family paid tribute to the much-beloved former racer dubbed by fans as the “Prince of Speed”.
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    It read: “It is with incredible sadness that the Read family reports the passing of Phil Read MBE while peacefully asleep on the morning of October 6th, 2022, at his home in Canterbury, England.
    “Phil is best known for winning Yamaha’s first world championship title in 1964 with four more Yamaha-mounted titles including one fought as a privateer, plus two premier class 500cc world championships in 1973 and 1974 for the Italian MV Agusta marque.
    “Often a controversial and outspoken figure, his prolific racing career included 52 FIM Grand Prix wins and eight wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT Races. In 2002 he was granted the status of “MotoGP Legend” by Dorna.
    “Phil is survived by his sons Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki and daughter Esme’. Further details on any public celebrations of life will be shared.”
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    Following the sad news of Read’s death, Moto GP paid tribute – writing: “All at MotoGP are saddened to learn of the passing of Phil Read
    “A 7-time World Champion, Phil helped to elevate our sport to a new level
    “His impact on the motorcycle racing community will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Phil.”
    Former GP rider Steve Parrish wrote: “So sad to hear the passing of Phil Read. One of the most talented riders to come from the UK.
    “I will never forget him coming to my house, with glamorous wife Madeline.
    “In a Rolls corniche, it was like Queen had arrived.”
    MotoGP star Joan Mir added: “Rest in peace, legend.”
    One fan tweeted: “RIP Phil Read. One of the greatest and hardest motorcycle racers of all time.
    “What a character, in both good and bad ways. A minutes silence will be required at Phillip Island next week.”
    Read More on The Sun
    A second posted: “I got to spend time with Phil these past 15 years having fun at classic events. Phil was one of the greats of all time! R.I.P Phil Read.”
    A third added: “So sorry to hear that the legend Phil Read passed away, he made me laugh, wasn’t PC at all and he upset many without meaning to, which made me like him all the more.”
    Read hoists the trophy aloft after winning the British Junior Championship race in 1963Credit: Getty
    The outspoken star became one Britain’s most successful ever racersCredit: Getty More

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    Watch as Mick Schumacher CRASHES out of Japanese GP practice and destroys car as torrential rain soaks track

    MICK SCHUMACHER has crashed out of a soggy practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix.Torrential rain made for terrible conditions at the Suzuka circuit with drivers limited in how many laps they could complete.

    Mich Schumacher’s crash caused considerable damage to his front wingCredit: Reuters
    The Haas star emerged from his car unscathedCredit: AFP
    Schumacher, 23, had completed his session and was heading back to the pits when he lost control of the rear of his car.
    The wet conditions caused him to spin at turn seven and he violently hit the barriers, leading to considerable damage to his front wing.
    He was unharmed and was able to get out of the vehicle unscathed.
    Schumacher said over team radio: “Ah, I just had a huge aquaplaning.”
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    Aquaplaning occurs as a result of water build-up in the tyres and creates a loss of traction and reduces steering ability, meaning the Haas driver was helpless to avoid the crash.
    Elsewhere, a cautious Max Verstappen completed just four laps, with the Red Bull star keen to avoid crashing too.
    The Dutchman can claim the F1 championship this weekend with a race win and fastest lap, so he was careful not to put that at risk.
    Ferrari pair Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are looking to stop Verstappen and were quick in practice before also winding down their efforts because of the weather.
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    Lewis Hamilton and George Russell only completed ten laps between them.
    They too showed hesitancy, recording the 13th and 18th quickest times respectively, with Hamilton 2.3 seconds off the pace. More

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    Tributes flood in after British Superbike star Chrissy Rouse dies aged 26 after horror crash at Donington

    TRIBUTES are pouring in for superbike rider Chrissy Rouse, who has died aged 26, just days after his horror crash at Donington Speedway.Rouse was taken to hospital after crashing on the final corner and being struck by an oncoming rider.
    Rouse passed away aged 26 after a horror crashCredit: Twitter
    The crash happened at the Donnington Park Circuit in LeicestershireCredit: Rex
    He was competing in the third race in Sunday’s penultimate round.
    Rouse underwent an emergency neurosurgery procedure late on Sunday night, but a statement has now confirmed the Crowe Performance rider has passed.
    Tributes have poured in for the Newcastle-born fan favourite.
    Rouse’s former college have hailed him as a “person of excellence”.
    READ MORE IN SPORT
    Emmanuel College said on Twitter: “We are very deeply saddened by the death of former student, staff member and friend, Chrissy Rouse.
    “Someone who exemplified the spirit of Emmanuel College.
    “A person of excellence who lived with humility and demonstrated remarkable love for others.”
    A racing fan said: “There really are no words.
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    “The world has lost a true gent, a top podcaster, British champion and all round nice guy. RIP Chrissy Rouse, you will be sorely missed.”
    A statement from the British Superbike Championship read: “Following an accident during Bennetts British Superbike Championship race three at Donington Park (on Sunday 2 October 2022), competitor Chrissy Rouse crashed heavily on the opening lap of the race and was unavoidably struck by an immediately following rider.
    “He sustained a significant head injury.
    “The race was stopped and he was treated immediately trackside by the BSB Medical Team before being transferred to the circuit medical centre.
    “He was stabilised and put in a medically induced coma at the medical centre before being transferred to Queens Medical Centre/University Hospital, Nottingham for further assessment and treatment.
    “He underwent an emergency neurosurgical procedure shortly after admission.
    “It is with great regret that we have to announce that Chrissy Rouse aged 26, from Newcastle upon Tyne, has succumbed to his injuries, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in hospital earlier this afternoon.”
    The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board has vowed to investigate how the incident occurred.
    The statement continued: “On behalf of Chrissy’s family they wish to convey their deep appreciation for the support and well wishes that they have received in recent days.
    “As well they wish to thank all the attending marshals and medical services who provided such skill and care attending to Chrissy.
    “The family also ask for privacy at this difficult time as they attempt to deal with their devastating loss.
    Read More on The Sun
    “MSVR is now working with the Coroner, Police and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board in order to investigate the full circumstances of this tragic accident.
    “Our deepest condolences are extended to Chrissy’s family, friends and team members.” More

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    Lewis Hamilton claims F1’s integrity will be RUINED if Red Bull are found to have breached £114m cost cap

    LEWIS HAMILTON has declared that the integrity of Formula One will be RUINED if the FIA fail to punish teams who breached financial budget caps. Reports have been circulating since last week suggesting Red Bull and Aston Martin went over the allowed cost caps for the development of their cars last season.
    Lewis Hamilton believes the integrity of F1 will be ruined if teams go unpunished for breaking rulesCredit: Splash
    The financial audit for the team’s 2021 accounts were expected to be made public on Wednesday, but the FIA has since delayed this until October 10 – after the Japanese Grand Prix.
    And if found guilty then Hamilton believes any transgression must be punished if the sport’s integrity is to remain intact.
    Hamilton said: “I think it’s imperative, honestly, just for transparency. I think we need to continue to have transparency for the fans, for the integrity of the sport.
    “Obviously there’s lots of conversations that are going on in the background. No one truly knows.
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    “There’s different numbers and different things being said here and there, so I was expecting those results – like you – to come out yesterday.
    “I would like to think that if it’s been delayed it’s because it’s been taken very seriously and I trust that Mohammed (bin Sulayem) is taking it seriously and will do what is right for the sport, I hope.
    “I think it would be bad for the sport if action wasn’t taken if there was a breach.”
    The budget cap – a new introduction to the sport aimed at making F1 more financially sustainable and levelling the playing field – allowed teams to spend up to £114million in developing their cars.
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    Of course, Hamilton likely has an implied bias given the controversial circumstances he lost the 2021 title to Reb Bull’s Max Verstappen under.
    If Red Bull’s alleged breach is found to be five per cent or more of the cap, this will constitute a “material (major) overspend breach” which could see them be punished in a number of ways.
    These include sanctions as little as financial penalties or limits on aerodynamic testing, all the way up to the deduction of points from teams and drivers and suspension or exclusion from the championship.
    Hamilton, who was spotted wearing a T-shirt with his own name paired with a floral coat, added: “It’ll put in question our values, the integrity of the sport.
    “I remember last year as a driver, you were always asking for updates, updates, updates on things, whether it’s fuel, whatever it is. 
    “And I remember in Silverstone when we got our last update and I remember that was almost three tenths, and I’m pretty certain it cost less than a million.
    “But I remember after that needing more updates – but then seeing trucks of updates continuing to arrive on the other car, thinking ‘jeez, it’s going to be hard to beat them in the championship if they keep bringing updates.”
    Read More on The Sun
    F1 has gone through scandals before, such as 2007’s Spygate and 2008’s Crashgate.
    And recently as 2020 controversy loomed as the FIA refused to publish details of a “settlement” they reached with Ferrari over the operation of the team’s power unit.
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    Lewis Hamilton wears T-shirt with his own name on it and flowery coat as F1 star prepares for Japanese GP

    LEWIS HAMILTON wore another stylish outfit just days after landing himself in hot water over breaking Formula One’s attire rules. Ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Hamilton – ever the fashion guru of F1 – donned a T-shirt with his own name on it.
    Lewis Hamilton wore a striking T-shirt and coatCredit: Getty
    His T-shirt saw his name etched on in black font with a colourful monster paired alongside itCredit: Getty
    Meanwhile, his coat saw a stunning floral pattern run down the armsCredit: Getty
    The white T-shirt he sported had a stylish black font for his name and paired it with a colourful cartoon monster and more dashes of colour to contrast the otherwise plain black and white.
    He paired this with a khaki coat which had a bouquet of flowers down each arm.
    The 37-year-old has a well-earned reputation for wearing extravagant clothing and fashion accessories.
    But just days ago he almost landed himself a fine by breaching the International Sporting Code of the FIA.
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    Prior to the Singapore Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion had been called to the stewards relating to a breach of Appendix L, Chapter III, which prohibits the wearing of certain jewellery.
    Hamilton was hauled in relating to the wearing of a nose piercing.
    But he was able to avoid a personal fine due to having a doctor’s note, while his team Mercedes were slapped with a £22,400 fine for failing to alert the FIA about the piercing.
    Despite the drama, Hamilton went on to produce his best qualifying result of the season before his weekend crumbled on race day – finishing with a disappointing P9.
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    The ex-McLaren driver is on course for his worst-ever season in F1, with him sitting in a lowest-ever P6 in the drivers standings and yet to win a race this season.
    However, he insists he is “happier than ever” in the sport amid rumours he could sign a bumper new five-year contract.
    While Hamilton was spotted with his trendy shirt and coat around the paddock, other F1 stars have been seen enjoying the sights of Japan.
    Namely AlphaTauri duo Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda, who were pictured in a hilarious must-watch karaoke session in Tokyo.
    On track, talk of title business could be wrapped up this weekend with Max Verstappen having a golden chance of claiming a second successive title.
    Read More on The Sun
    Although the ramifications of last season’s controversial title are still being felt, and there may yet be another word had on that with the FIA preparing to finalise their financial audit of the teams.
    Their findings are now set to be made public on October 10, with speculation mounting that Red Bull and Aston Martin have breached the budget cap.
    Retiring Sebastian Vettel was in a happy mood around Suzuka, where he has won four timesCredit: Getty More