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      in Soccer

      I live next to crumbling football stadium ‘stuck in time’ – pitch view is amazing but awful noise at 5am is unbearable

      by

      EVERY time Southend United play at home, father-of-two Tyrone Buckingham has a near-perfect view of the game from his bedroom window.But rather than enjoying the action unfold at Essex’s biggest football stadium, most match days he can be found watching his beloved Arsenal play on television instead.
      Tyrone Buckingham’s home backs on to Southend United’s stadiumCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The decaying Roots Hall needs a revampCredit: Google Earth
      Tyrone is such a dedicated Gunners fan that he has painted the walls of his flat red and white.
      He moved into a flat overlooking decaying Roots Halls stadium by coincidence seven years ago and says he has become increasingly enraged by his lower league neighbours.
      As part of our Life’s a Pitch summer series, we visited the seaside city to see what locals made of life living next to the troubled team, which faces existential problems on and off the pitch.
      Tyrone, 35, told The Sun: “They are an absolute nightmare. They keep leaving their alarms on and they go off at all hours.
      Read More Life’s A Pitch
      “The alarms are regularly keeping me and my children up at night and I am a lorry driver so I have to be up at 4.30am.
      “The alarms have been an ongoing problem for years. We complained and it stopped for a while but now it has started again.
      “They went off at 2am the other night and kept going for hours. They are totally taking the Mickey.”
      To prove his point, Tyrone played us a recording he made of the alarm ringing outside his bedroom window.
      Most read in Football
      The high-pitched sound filled the speaker of his mobile phone as he showed our reporter the video, which he says was taken at 5.30am on a recent morning.
      He added: “My kids are aged three and six and we all need our sleep. The club also test their speakers at 10pm some nights and they had their floodlights on at about the same time last night.
      “I guess this would be a great flat for a Southend fan but I’m Arsenal – my bedroom is red and white – so I’ve got no interest in following their team.
      “I never, ever watch the games from my window and if the club decides to move to a new stadium that will be absolutely fine with me.”
      Floodlights and noise wake residents up at nightCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Local Paul Burton says the ground is ‘stuck in time’Credit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Tryone’s wish isn’t as fanciful at it might seem.
      In recent months, Southend United has been dragged back and forth from the courts over its financial difficulties, with fan group The Shrimpers Trust saying it remained under “existential threat” until owner Ron Martin sells up.
      This week, the National League granted the team a licence to start the season after it paid its staff for the first time in three months.
      A spokesman told The Sun: “Staff are fully up to date with their salaries.”
      The 117-year-old club lost its Football League status in 2021 following back-to-back relegations and Southend West MP Anna Firth recently raised its plight in Parliament.
      Martin has been trying to find a buyer for the club since March and earlier this month said he has done “everything in my power to close the deal quickly”.
      ‘Stuck in time’
      While all this goes on the stadium Roots Hall, which has been the Shrimpers’ home since 1955, is falling into a state of disrepair and fans have been gathering outside to protest.
      Policeman Paul Burton also lives next to the ground, although his upper-level flat does not boast a view of the pitch.
      Paul, 39, said: “The stadium is stuck in time. It’s like living next to a relic – nothing has changed over there for years.
      “The owner is not the most popular person in the world, but it’s a historic club and it will be a shame if they go under.
      “Last season they had the highest average attendance in the league. They can get 8,000 or 9,000 fans turning up if they are playing one of the big London teams in the cup.
      “It doesn’t bother me having them here at all. They only play once every two weeks and if I close my windows I can’t hear the crowd. Also, this is a nice area so I enjoy living here.”
      Flats overlook the stadium and can even see on to the pitchCredit: Getty
      Hazel Newbold says litter is a nightmare on match daysCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Supermarket worker Hazel Newbold is less keen on the Shrimpers remaining next door to her home, however.
      Southend’s chairman bought the club in 1998 with the intention of relocating them to a new stadium at Fossetts Farm, north of the city.
      But numerous delays – one caused by the discovery of a Bronze Age burial site – have caused the proposed move to become a painful saga, dragging on for years.
      Hazel, 54, said: “We get a lot of litter on match days – that’s my main gripe. The fans put beer bottles on our wall and they fall off and smash, which is dangerous for the children.
      “The club doesn’t clear up our street, only the path that leads to the stand next to our house.
      “The floodlights are an issue as they fill our bedrooms with light and you get a lot of glare.
      “We’ve heard the alarms too but we don’t know where they came from.”
      Hazel’s son Brad Newbold, 28, lives next door to her with his partner Nikki Crockett, 36, but they are now planning to move.
      Lorry driver Brad said: “I used to go and watch games at Roots Hall when I was younger and it was a decent stadium back then, but they’ve totally let it go.
      “The parking situation is a nightmare and will only get worse if the new homes get built as there will be so many more people living here then.”
      Receptionist Nikki added: “We’re moving into town where they have parking permits because we’ve had enough. We have both agreed that wherever we go, it’s not going to be near a football stadium.”
      ‘They’re a great team’
      One person that has been happy living next to the 12,000-plus capacity stadium is police officer Mel, 35, who remembers going to watch Southend with her grandfather as a little girl.
      Almost three years ago, when they first opened, she didn’t hesitate snapping up a one bedroom flat in the new apartment complex on neighbouring Fairfax Drive.
      Mel has asked us not to use her real name because of the sensitive line of work she is involved in.
      She said: “I’ve always loved football and you can see almost the entire pitch from the terrace next to my flat.
      “I didn’t buy it for that reason. It was just that I could get a mortgage here as a first-time buyer.
      “But I’ve loved living here and the only reason I am moving is that I need a bigger place.
      “The view is definitely a selling point and I’ve had a few people come round to view it and say, ‘Wow, you can see the football stadium!’
      Read More on The Sun
      “I’m going to be sad to leave and I really hope the club has a future as they’re a great team and all the players and staff are fantastic.”
      The Sun contacted Southend United for comment, who only confirmed that salaries have been paid. More

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      in Soccer

      How Kylian Mbappe went from growing up in poverty-stricken estate to £604m fortune as he’s offered ‘£11.6m a WEEK’ deal

      by

      HE’S one of the greatest footballers of our time and strikes fear into the hearts of defenders thanks to his ability to sprint like Usain Bolt. Now Kylian Mbappé, 24, could become the highest-paid sports star of all time as part of a record-breaking £259million transfer deal.
      Kylian Mbappé could become the world’s highest-paid footballerCredit: Getty
      If the French striker accepts the Saudi offer, it’s reported he could earn up to £11.6million a week (pictured as a teen)Credit: Offside Sports
      The French striker may move from Paris Saint-German to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal after an offer was accepted by the club.
      It would see him make an eye-watering £11.6m per week as part of a £604m deal for just one year at the club, according to CBS Sport’s James Benge. 
      The staggering sum is worlds away from his childhood in the Paris suburb of Bondy, renowned for “violence and drugs”, where a giant mural of the star now stands with the slogan “ville des possibles” – “the town where anything is possible”. 
      Prior to the Saudi offer, Mbappé was already worth a whopping £144million and doesn’t shy away from enjoying living the high life.
      READ MORE ON TRANSFER NEWS
      From owning an £8.5million luxury pad with views of the Eiffel Tower to amassing a £1.2million car collection, we look at his glam life and the difficult start he left behind.
      Born to immigrant parents – his mum Fayza Lamari is of Algerian descent and his dad Wilfried Mbappé descends from Cameroon – Mbappé grew up in a town notorious for its riots.
      In 2005, when Mbappé was five, violent protests against police harassment saw angry youths torch cars, attack cops and vandalise buildings. 
      When Bleacher Report visited in 2017, it reported the working-class area still has high crime rates and the unemployment rate is double the national average, but locals say things are improving.
      Most read in Football
      A mural in Bondy pays tribute to its footballing legendCredit: Getty
      One optimistic resident Elfilali Ahmed said: “When I used to tell people I was from Bondy, they would ask about the violence and drug use. Now, they all ask me about Kylian Mbappé and if I know him.”
      Another resident who lives in a block of flats yards from the one Mbappé grew up in told the Mirror: “What he has achieved is a great inspiration for children around here.
      “Life in Bondy is sometimes hard and he is showing them there is a way out of what can be a dark place.”
      Mbappé has put his success down to practice and determination.
      “In football, everything is possible through hard work and I think that has been important,” he told beIN Sports last year.
      “I’ve always believed in myself and I knew I was capable of doing great things. It isn’t just about desire and wanting to succeed, you must work hard.”
      £8.5m luxury pad
      Inside Mbappé’s luxury Paris apartment, which boasts a basketball courtCredit: Instagram
      These days Mbappé lives in a luxurious £8.5million multi-floor apartment in Neuilly-sur-Seine, an exclusive Paris neighbourhood loved by celebrities which boasts views of the Eiffel Tower.
      Mbappé has remained tight-lipped about what his home is like, but it’s believed to have 12 bedrooms, a basketball court, library, gym and Turkish bath.
      It’s also believed to have an outdoor jacuzzi perfect for relaxing and gazing at the Eiffel Tower.
      £1.2m cars
      Mbappé owns many high-end vehicles but cannot driveCredit: Instagram
      The sports star’s most expensive vehicle is a Ferrari 488 Pista, worth £450,000Credit: Getty
      Over the years Mbappé has owned an enviable array of beautiful cars – despite being unable to drive. 
      He rationed that having “drivers at my disposal” meant it had “never been a priority” to get his driving licence. 
      His jaw-dropping vehicles include a Ferrari Hybrid SF90 Stradale, which he bought for £400,000 – one week’s salary.
      The striker also boasts a Ferrari 488 Pista that goes from 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds and costs an estimated £450,000.
      Among Mbappé’s collection are several more practical vehicles including a seven-seater Mercedes Benz V-Class, which cost around £115,000.
      He also has a £103,000 Volswagen Touareg, a £65,000 Wolkswagen Multivan and a Volkswagen Tiguan worth £49,000. 
      Goal.com also claims he owns a BMW, an Audi and a Range Rover – but no details regarding what models have been released. 
      Designer clobber
      Mbappé fell in love with trainers after getting his first pair of Nike Air Max 1sCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappe
      He has a range of expensive pairs including high-tops from a Dior-Nike collaborationCredit: Getty
      Mbappé is a self-confessed “sneakerhead” – someone with a love for trainers – and admitted having a “small collection” in a 2018 interview with Hype Beast.
      The footballer said the shoes brought him “real pleasure” and described himself as “like a kid with a new toy” whenever he gets a new pair. 
      He added: “I’ve always been a sneaker lover, so it’s a pleasure to buy new pairs and mix them with my clothes to flex a little.”
      In a 2019 Complex video, Mbappé forked out £935 for two pairs of trainers – Air Max 90 Ice in ‘Gym Red’ and Jordan XI ‘Parton’ in blue.
      He revealed he fell in love with the footwear after his mum saved up to buy him a pair of Nike Air Max 1s.
      Describing them as the “apple of my eye” he said he “cleaned them every day”.
      The footballer’s other favourite trainers include neon yellow Air Jordan 1 Gatorade due to their “flashy colour”. He also professed love for Air Jordan 5 PSGs and high-top Air Jordan 1s.
      Jetset holidays
      While Mbappé is relatively private, he enjoys sharing snaps from his lush holidaysCredit: Instagram
      The footballer is snapped flying on a private jetCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappe
      When Mbappé’s not enjoying the views from his beautiful Paris home, he’s known to love holidaying abroad. 
      Just last month he was spotted playing paddle tennis with friends on Miami’s South Beach in Florida.
      Mbappé was also snapped playing a game of Jenga with two bikini-clad women.
      It’s not the only holiday he’s taken this year, with the star being pictured during a trip to Marrakech, Morocco.
      Spanish newspaper Mundo Reportivo reported Mbappé was joined by France teammate Eduardo Camavinga and other Real Madrid stars during multiple trips.
      Mbappé regularly shares photos of himself on private jets and at envy-inducing locations including a remote temple, beside a beautiful cove and in high-end hotels.
      Just a few of the other spots he has visited have included Disney Land Paris, Cameroon and New York.
      Celebrity pals
      The French strikes is also close pals with Basketball star LeBron JamesCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappe
      Mbappé appears to be good friends with ex-England ace David BeckhamCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappe
      The sports star isn’t just popular on the pitch, but off it too, boasting a number of A-list pals including basketball legend LeBron James, who he collaborated with for the Nike footwear range ‘Chosen 2’.
      For the collaboration, Mbappé co-designed football boots for the clothing giant, which cost £250 a pair, were named Mercurial Superfly and were black with an iridescent finish.
      It seemed he and James hit it off as they have been pictured together multiple times since including once while exchanging shirt.
      Mbappé also has a wealth of admirers from the footballing world including David Beckham, Theirry Henry and the late great Pele.
      £150k watch stash
      Mbappé holding a £48,900 Hublot Integrated King Gold watchCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappe
      It’s not just trainers that Mbappé appears to have an eye for – he has a thing for extremely expensive watches boasting a collection worth nearly £150,000.
      During the FIFA World Cup last year he was seen posing with a £48,900 Hublot Big Bang King Gold.
      Mbappé has also sported a number of other timepieces from the brand including Big Bang Steel Diamonds, which cost £16,100, and the Unico Titanium Rainbow, which cost £59,900.
      The most expensive he’s been pictured wearing in public to date was a Big Bang Unico, which costs up to £65,161.
      Generous star
      While he lives a privileged lifestyle, Mbappé hasn’t forgotten his roots and is known for generously giving away large sums of his vast wealth.
      The Sun reported he donated his 2018 World Cup match fees and bonuses – roughly £400,000 – to a children’s charity.
      The following year Mbappé donated £25,000 to help fund a private search for the footballer Emiliano Sala after his plane vanished while travelling from Nantes to Cardiff. 
      Sadly, the striker’s body and the aircraft wreckage were discovered in the English Channel one month after he disappeared in February 2019.
      Mbappé was also reported to have made a “very large” donation to homelessness charity Abbe Pierre Foundation.
      Read More on The Sun
      In a 2021 statement the organisation thanked him for his generosity that would help with “first aid actions, access to water and hygiene”.
      Mbappé even launched his own charity, Inspired by KM, in 2020 and supports 98 disadvantaged children in Paris “until their working lives begin”.  More

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      in Soccer

      My home overlooks my team’s football ground but I’ve shunned club after row with owner got me arrested & banned for LIFE

      by

      FORMER Gillingham FC fan Malcolm Scott thought he had found his dream home when he purchased a terraced house overlooking Priestfield Stadium.It allowed him to watch every match from the comfort of his loft conversion.
      Gillingham fan Malcolm Scott enjoyed watching games from his loft window when he first bought his house by the stadiumCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The Medway Stand, which replaced the old Main Stand, is the largest and northernmost of the fourCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      But years later he was not only banned from attending games, he was also arrested following a bitter falling out with the club’s owner Paul Scally.
      At the centre of the dispute was the decision to erect the huge new Medway stand that blocked his view of the pitch, and led to a long-running battle over planning permission.
      For Malcolm, the conflict got so ugly that he stopped supporting his beloved Gills and has taken up gardening instead.
      Pensioner Malcolm, 90, told The Sun – who visited as part of our summer series, Life’s a Pitch, which looks at life next to Britain’s weirdest and most wonderful stadiums: “I moved here 54 years ago because I wanted to go to the games.
      READ MORE LIFE’S A PITCH
      “My wife was less keen and kept asking to move, but I refused because I fell in love with the area.
      “One of the best things was that we could see the pitch from the top room in the loft conversion.
      “My grandson would come round and sit on the roof to watch the games on the weekends.
      “The view was fantastic and you could see everything – until they built the new stand.
      Most read in Football
      Priestfield Stadium is surrounded by Victorian housingCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Locals say the temporary stand is an eyesore as people dump rubbish next to it all the timeCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      “Residents including myself objected because we did not like the way they were doing it.
      “We raised a number of issues with the council and it was the way the club treated us that got us so upset.
      “There was no respect and Scally even put a new nightclub in there. He claimed it was a social club, but people were coming out of there at 1am.
      “One day there was a meeting about the new stand and Scally threw me out after I said a few things.
      I didn’t know anything about his car being scratched but someone accused me and about a year later the police arrested me. There was no evidence so they had to let me go, but it was horrendousMalcolm Scott
      “Later that night, someone scratched his car while it was parked on double yellow lines.
      “I didn’t know anything about it but someone accused me and about a year later the police arrested me.
      “There was no evidence so they had to let me go, but it was horrendous.
      “I was also given a lifetime ban by the club and I stopped supporting them after that.
      “My son-in-law still goes to games, but I’ve lost interest.”
      Malcolm’s wife Margaret raised their four children in the same house, which is a 10-minute walk from Gillingham train station in Kent.
      Local resident Ted Turner has also clashed with former Millwall fan ScallyCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Fans walk past residential homes to access the stadium entranceCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      She has a different take on the decision to demolish the old main stand in 1999, which included a section housing away fans.
      She grimaces when she recalls how the previous low-rise structure would provide an unobstructed view of their garden.
      Margaret, 86, said: “The away fans used to call to me when I was outside, singing ‘We can see you!’
      “They would wolf-whistle at my daughters when they were in the garden.
      The away fans used to call to me when I was outside, singing ‘We can see you!’ They would wolf-whistle at my daughters when they were in the gardenMargaret Scott
      “We didn’t think anything of it as it was just banter and I don’t have any problems now.
      “I have double glazed windows, so I don’t hear all the noise during games.”
      Father-of-seven Scally, 66, has become a controversial figure since taking over the club in 1995.
      For some he is the saviour that rescued Gillingham FC from bankruptcy and kick-started an era of unprecedented success.
      For others he is a bully who threw his weight around and threatened the identity of the club.
      Paul Scally has become a controversial figure since taking over the club in 1995Credit: Rex
      The Brian Moore stand became an embarrassment for locals and a sore point for away fansCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The London-born businessman, who made his fortune through the Metronote photocopier company, took on debts of up to £2million when he snapped up Gillingham FC for just £1.
      The club was about to be expelled from the Football League but he saved it from being liquidated and closed down.
      Scally’s shrewd managerial appointments – bringing in first Tony Pulis before he was sacked and then Peter Taylor, who went on to manage Leicester City – paved the way for glory on the pitch.
      His tenure has overseen three promotions, three Wembley play-off finals and four FA Cup victories over top division opponents.
      The Gills also achieved their highest league finish of 11th in the Championship during the 2002/03 season.
      Three stands including the Medway were demolished and rebuilt between 1995 and 2000, while a fourth called Town End was knocked down as part of a redevelopment in 2003.
      Malcolm says the social club turned into a night clubCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Clay Bell, 61, also lives near the stadiumCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      A temporary stand named after legendary footie commentator Brian Moore was erected the same year.
      However, the scaffolding-like structure remains in place today despite the fact it has reportedly been damaged by years of exposure to the elements.
      Rebuilding was supposed to take place in 2004 but financial issues and Scally’s fiercely contested proposal to move the club to a different part of Kent put the plans on hold.
      Reporters with the Kent Messenger Group and Alan Liptrott, chairman of the Gills Independent Supporters Club, were all banned from attending games for a time after criticising the chairman.
      In the meantime, the Brian Moore stand became an embarrassment for locals and a sore point for away fans forced to stand out in the pouring rain.
      Retired BP refinery worker Ted Towner, 78, is another resident that has clashed with former Millwall fan Scally.
      He said: “No one likes him because he doesn’t listen.
      Gillingham FC was relegated from League One in 2022Credit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Gills fan Rick Turner is much more upbeat about the clubCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      “I fought him as part of the residents association and he doesn’t like people criticising him. 
      “I only met him at the meetings and I can tell you, he always has to get his own way.
      “The temporary stand is an embarrassment for us and it is also an eyesore as people dump rubbish next to it all the time. I don’t know how they’ve gotten away with it for so many years.”
      Gills fan Rick Turner is much more upbeat about the club, despite the fact they were relegated from League One in 2022.
      He has been a supporter since the 1960s and continued watching games even after a new £2m Gordon Road Stand was erected opposite his house in 1997.
      Father-of-three Rick, 69, said: “I’ve lived here for 30 years and at one point, for about two seasons, you could see the entire pitch from my top bedroom.
      I’ve lived here for 30 years and at one point, for about two seasons, you could see the entire pitch from my top bedroomRick Turner, local resident
      “It was fantastic and saved me about £150 a year on a season ticket.
      “The atmosphere wasn’t as good at home, but the kids would have their friends over and my eldest became a big Gills fan.
      “Supporting this club has its ups and downs but I absolutely love it.
      “I used to follow the Premier League. I lost interest as it’s all about money now, while players at my club actually care about the fans.”
      Gillingham FC is now owned by American property tycoon Brad Galinson and his wife Shannon.
      They are promising to revive the club just like Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have turned things around at Wrexham FC in Wales.
      Last year the couple purchased a majority share from Scally, who is now based in Dubai and retains a minority share.
      Liz Shearer welcomes the new investorsCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Last year it was reported that Scally was subjected to intense harassment following the club’s relegation. He took an enforced break from club duty after some fans trespassed on his property, damaged his car and intimidated his family.
      He said the group of fans in question had “crossed a line” with their “relentless and personal” abuse.
      Scally told talkSPORT’s Jim White in an interview: “I’ve fallen out of love with Gillingham and I’ve fallen out of love with football and that’s why I’ve decided that I need to take this break and step away to try and get my life back a bit and try to get some normality back in my life for me and my family.”
      Liz Shearer’s home backs on to the Rainham End stand and she is excited by the prospect of the Gills playing Wrexham in League Two this season.
      Mum-of-one Liz, 50, said: “I think Scally did well for us until the money ran out – and the future is bright now we’ve got new investors.  
      “The Galinsons have worked wonders already and every match is going to be a sell-out next season, especially the one against Wrexham.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I want to say to Ryan Reynolds, if he is reading this, that he is very welcome to pop over for a cup of tea.”
      The Sun reached out to Paul Scally for comment.
      Gillingham FC is now owned by American property tycoon Brad Galinson and his wife ShannonCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The £2m Gordon Road Stand was erected in 1997Credit: JOHN McLELLAN More

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      in Motorsport

      Inside F1’s most outrageous driver Daniel Ricciardo’s lavish life with stunning girlfriend ahead of Hungarian GP return

      by

      DANIEL Ricciardo is Formula 1’s most entertaining star – and his rollercoaster career hasn’t been short of drama either.While the Aussie racer has won eight Grand Prixs, last August he hit a career low, getting ditched by McLaren and failing to secure a seat for the 2023 season.
      Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo has joined AlphaTauri for the remainder of the 2023 season and is set to make his comeback at the Hungarian GPCredit: Getty
      Away from the race track, Ricciardo lives a very luxurious lifestyle with glam girlfriend Heidi BergerCredit: danielricciardo/instagram
      However, this weekend the 34-year-old is set to make a sensational F1 return with AlphaTauri at this weekend’s Hungarian GP, having filled Nyck de Vries’ spot for the remainder of the season.
      Away from the grid he’s one of the most popular professionals in the sport – regularly pictured larking about with the likes of former team mates Lando Norris and Max Verstappen, and new team mate Yuki Tsunoda.
      No doubt fans will be thrilled to see Daniel – nicknamed the Honey Badger – back, especially with glamorous girlfriend Heidi Berger in tow.
      And despite his dip in form, some reports suggest Ricciardo is still worth an impressive £38million – which means he’s been able to maintain a very luxurious lifestyle while away.
      READ MORE F1
      Here, we take a closer look inside Daniel’s lavish life away from the grid, including a £15million property portfolio and a very, very impressive multi-million pound private car collection.
      Love in the fast lane
      When Daniel was dropped by his team last year, at least he could rely on the support of his super stunning girlfriend, Heidi, 26.
      She already knows a thing or two about the F1 life too, as her Austrian father Gerhard Berger is a retired driver, who competed for 14 seasons.
      Speaking last year on the Fitzy & Wippa podcast when asked if he was in love, Daniel said: “Yeah mate, I’m in love, I got a good thing going, so yeah. I’ve got a good balance in life right now.
      Most read in Motorsport
      “I think love eliminates stress, yeah absolutely.”
      Actress Heidi, who studied at New York University, has posted plenty of photos from the track presumably supporting her beau, and while the couple are incredibly private, they went public with their romance last August.
      They were spotted enjoying a getaway to Venice in May, and also shared a special intimate moment from the romantic holiday on social media last month, showing they’re still very much loved-up.
      Heidi is an aspiring actress, and the daughter of former F1 driver Gerhard BergerCredit: instagram.com/heidiberger
      Heidi has been a huge support for her beauCredit: heidiberger_/instagram
      Daniel Ricciardo and his girlfriend Heidi Berger have been able to spend more time together latelyCredit: BackGrid
      £15m property empire
      Regardless of form, a career in F1 can be short-lived, so Ricciardo has already made the sensible move into property investment, and boasts a staggering £15million portfolio already.
      He owns a one-bedroom pied-à-terre in Monte Carlo, which is home to plenty of other drivers including Max Verstappen and Charles LeClerc.
      Speaking about the Monaco Grand Prix, Ricciardo said: “It feels like a real racetrack, and I’m not thinking ‘there’s a cafe I eat at’ or ‘there’s a street I ride my Vespa down’ or whatever.
      “You wake up in your own bed, kick around your apartment and then start the journey to work.” 
      Not forgetting his roots, Daniel also has an impressive abode in his native Perth, Australia, which is said to have an underground garage (of course) and pool.
      Even more impressively, he also snapped up a stunning five-bed, five bath mansion in Los Angeles in 2018.
      Daniel Ricciardo’s LA home is where he enjoys spending time during summer breaks in particularCredit: Realtor.com
      The driver loves the US, and owns a home in LACredit: Realtor.com
      His mansion boasts an outdoor pool, five bedrooms and five bathroomsCredit: Realtor.com
      As a result he is said to enjoy spending most of the summer in LA, telling the West Australian: “The weather, having the beaches close by, I feel like you can escape the madness of it all.” 
      He paid a whopping £10million for the modernised 1960s Beverly Hills home, which also has an outdoor pool and a two-door garage for his luxury cars.
      Multi-million pound private car collection
      Unsurprisingly given their need to impress on the race track, F1 drivers are also known to boast very impressive private car collections – and Ricciardo is no exception.
      Speaking about his passion for motors to Top Gear, he said: “I am fascinated by some modern cars and how close they can be to a race car.
      “If I accelerate away from a set of traffic lights in a quick car, sure it feels fast, but I’m not exactly high-fiving my mate in the passenger seat.
      “That’s why I’m starting to warm towards the older stuff. It’s completely different. The H-pattern gearboxes, the vibrations and all that – I appreciate that.”
      Unsurprisingly, Ricciardo boasts a very impressive private car collectionCredit: gopro
      The racing pro’s motors are thought to be worth millionsCredit: danielricciardo/instagram
      He often drives a McLaren 720S, said to be worth around £215,000, and when he’s back in Australia, he cruises around his hometown in a Toyota HiLux – his first car and a gift from his parents.
      He also owns an Aston Martin Valkyrie, reportedly worth a whopping £2.5million, a Porsche 918 Spyder and a Porsche GT3 RS.
      Luxury holidays
      For work Daniel obviously has to travel the world, but when he’s not racing he also enjoys the finer things in life and visiting exotic locations.
      Last year he went Instagram official with Heidi while holidaying in the US, where they enjoyed hiking in the mountains and horse riding, and earlier this year they were pictured looking loved up in Venice.
      Previously he’s been seen living it up onboard a yacht in the Mediterranean, and earlier this year he was spotted partying in Las Vegas.
      And it seems Ricciardo made the most of his break away from the track, recently writing in a LinkedIn post: “This is the first year in as long as I can remember that my goals aren’t going to be 100 per cent about racing and competing.”
      Either way, it seems he was always destined for this career, saying: “Two, three years old, I’ve got faint memories of being at the track, putting the earmuffs on and that was like the first kind of attraction where I was kind of like scared by the noise.
      Read More on The Sun
      “But I also loved it, because I knew that represented like the speed and there was excitement that was with that.”
      Daniel and girlfriend Heidi recently enjoyed a loved-up getaway to Venice togetherCredit: heidiberger_/instagram
      In between racing, Ricciardo makes the most of the breaksCredit: danielricciardo/instagram More

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      in Soccer

      Ultimate Women’s World Cup rich list – highest-paid Lionesses star to Chelsea striker who bagged FIFA video game deal

      by

      ENGLAND’S roaring Lionesses captured the heart of the nation on their way to victory at the Euros last year.But while they will be hoping to go one better at the Women’s World Cup this summer, they face stiff competition from the likes of the USA, Spain, Germany and France.
      Chloe Kelly and the team pulled in huge crowds to their games in the UK for the Women’s EurosCredit: Getty
      Marta is often considered the greatest female footballer of all timeCredit: Getty
      In the money leagues, top stars like Marta and Megan Rapinoe may earn just a fraction of their equivalents in the men’s game.
      However, the best players can still earn hundreds of thousands a year – boosted by sponsorship deals and lucrative side projects.
      Here, we reveal some of the highest earners who will be dazzling in Australia and New Zealand over the coming weeks.
      Marta
      Brazilian Marta, 37, is often regarded as the best female footballer ever, so it’s no surprise she can command one of the highest salaries.
      READ MORE ON RICH LISTS
      The forward reportedly earns £311,000 a year at Orlando Pride, topped up by sponsorship deals with the likes of LATAM Airlines, Avon Brasil, shampoo brand Clear and pharmaceutical company Neo Quimica.
      In some of her campaigns for Clear, she has appeared with Cristiano Ronaldo. She has also had deals with Coca-Cola and Puma.
      Marta is Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer, with a record 17 World Cup goals, and has been named FIFA’s World Player of the Year five consecutive times.
      Wendie Renard
      Wendie has captained the French national team for ten yearsCredit: Getty
      French centre back Wendie, 33, has been the captain of the French women’s team for ten years.
      Most read in Football
      As the skipper of Lyon at club level, she is one of the most decorated players in modern times, with an astonishing 15 French league titles and eight European Cups to her name.
      It’s no surprise then that she’s on a reported £298,000-a-year salary.
      One of her sponsors is Adidas and she was previously an ambassador for MasterCard alongside England’s Alex Scott, too.
      Earlier this year, she told fans she was pulling out of what will be her third World Cup.
      She said in a statement: “It is a sad day, but necessary to preserve my mental health. It is with a heavy heart that I come to inform you of my decision to step back from the French team.”
      However, after returning to the French team for friendlies against Colombia and Canada in April, she will be wearing the armband once more this tournament.
      Megan Rapinoe
      Megan has gained a huge profile for her footwork on the pitch and activism off itCredit: Getty
      Megan’s famous celebration against France at the last World CupCredit: AFP
      With her signature bleached hair and even more dazzling footwork, USA winger Megan is one of the most instantly recognisable female footballers in the world.
      At the last World Cup in 2019, her celebration against France – in which she saluted the crowd with outstretched arms – became an instant meme and even went on to be added into the FIFA video game.
      The athlete, 38, is thought to take home a salary of £348,000 from OL Reign and, according to Celebrity Net Worth, has a fortune of £3.9million.
      She tops this up with sponsorship deals and cover interviews, having appeared on the front page of Sports Illustrated, Marie Claire, and InStyle.
      Her brands deals include luxury fashion brand Loewe, Nike and Samsung.
      Alex Morgan
      Alex Morgan has topped up her earnings by writing a children’s book seriesCredit: Getty
      Her tea-sipping celebration has gone down in World Cup folkloreCredit: Rex Features
      England fans will remember USA striker Alex for her now infamous tea-drinking celebration, after scoring the winner against the Lionesses at the last World Cup.
      The San Diego Wave FC captain – who CNW estimates has a fortune of £2.3million – has played in 217 international matches and made a short-lived move to Tottenham back in 2020.
      Away from the pitch, the 34-year-old has published The Kicks, a four-book series for school children and even appeared in a music video for Maroon 5’s song “Girls Like You”, which features Cardi B.
      Her long list of sponsorship deals include Nike, Panasonic, AT&T, Chobani, McDonald’s, P&G, Mondelez International, and Coca-Cola.
      She is married to Servando Carrasco, also a football player, and they have one child together, three-year-old Charlie.
      Lucy Bronze
      Lucy is thought to be one of the UK’s wealthiest female footballersCredit: Getty
      British Lucy, 31, is one of the wealthiest Lionesses and is thought to take home around £200,000 a year for FC Barcelona.
      The right-back has played for the England team since 2013 and has also represented the country in the Olympics. She tops up her earnings with deals from Pepsi, EE, Klarna, and Visa.
      Lucy is believed to be the top-earning England player, but along with other Lionesses has slammed the FA’s decision not to pay players extra money on top of the funds dished out by FIFA this tournament.
      Speaking about it, she said: “We want to keep pushing our own standards, but also our federations’ standards, the FIFA and UEFA standards. It isn’t just about the numbers. It is the principle of what we want to improve in women’s football.
      “There is always another step the game can take. Whether that is commercial, on the pitch or off the pitch, whether it is performance based or not. It is about being rewarded for what we have done – we are the European Champions.”
      Sam Kerr
      Sam has a $1million deal with Nike among other lucrative dealsCredit: Getty
      Goal-machine Sam, 29, is believed to take home a salary of £400,000 a year at Chelsea, who she has just helped to another Women’s Super League title.
      The Australian captains her national team and will be hoping to take them all the way as the hosts.
      Her 13-year deal with Nike is thought to be worth $1million. She was also the first female player to appear on the cover of the FIFA video game.
      Sam also has sponsorship deals with luxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen, Australian bank CommBank, and EA Sports.
      Chloe Kelly
      Chloe won legions of fans for her last minute goal at the EurosCredit: Getty
      England’s super-sub Chloe, 25, secured her place in the history books at last year’s Euros with her winning goal against Germany.
      It is not known how much her Man City contract is worth, but the club’s average salary for female players is thought to be around £75,000 a year.
      However, off the back of her legendary goal – and celebration – last year, Chloe remains one of England’s most marketable stars.
      The Mail on Sunday reported that she was set to sign a deal with Land Rover worth up to £2 million.
      A spokesperson for Chloe told the paper: “I can’t comment on her business dealings but… she is in demand.”
      Read More on The Sun
      She has also worked with Nike, KFC and last month appeared in a Calvin Klein ad alongside Alex Morgan. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet the ‘BAPs’ cheering on England’s Lionesses as World Cup kicks off – including German keeper who beat cancer twice

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      ENGLAND’S Lionesses kick off their World Cup bid on Saturday with an opening match against Haiti.The European champions will be looking to do the double and take home football’s biggest prize.
      England players Hannah Hampton, Georgia Stanway, Katie Zelem, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Bethany England, Lucy Bronze and Lauren Hem pose for a photo during a training session in Brisbane this weekCredit: Getty
      Some big names are missing from the team – notably captain Leah Williamson, who was ruled out of the tournament in April after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
      Her Arsenal team-mate Beth Mead has the same injury, while Chelsea midfielder Fran Kirby underwent knee surgery.
      But it’s paved the way for some new faces – and their loved ones will be spurring them on along with the rest of the nation.
      Here we take a look at the BAPs – that’s boyfriends and partners – cheering on Sarina Wiegman’s squad as the competition in Brisbane, Australia gets underway.
      READ MORE ON WORLD CUP
      Chloe Kelly
      Chloe Kelly is dating Scott MooreCredit: Instagram/@chloekelly
      Chloe, 25, from Hanwell, west London was hailed a hero when she scored the winning goal in the 110th minute in the Euros final against Germany, after coming off the bench.
      The Manchester City forward – who recently posed in her underwear for a stunning Calvin Klein ad – is dating Scott Moore, a greenkeeper at a golf club.
      The couple – often seen in loved-up snaps on Instagram – have been together for four years and share a cute cockapoo called Otis.
      After England’s Euros victory Scott was seen wearing an England shirt with his girlfriend’s name emblazoned on the back.
      Most read in Football
      Ella Toone
      Ella and her boyfriend Joe Bunney are both footballersCredit: Instagram/@joebunney
      Awkwardly for Man Utd player Ella, 23, her proud boyfriend Joe Bunney, 29, is a devoted City fan.
      But he’s his girlfriend’s “biggest cheerleader”, with a source previously telling The Sun: “Ella and Joe are very much in love and have been together for a while now.
      “They are both from Manchester and have mutual friends who introduced them. Those who know them think they are the perfect pairing.”
      Joe, who has two children from a previous relationship, is also a footballer, having played for EFL clubs including Bolton, Northampton Town and then-League side Rochdale. He currently plays for Stalybridge Celtic.
      Millie Bright
      Millie and Levi have been together for over three yearsCredit: Instagram
      Chelsea defender and England captain Millie, 29, is currently dating American performance-enhancing coach Levi Crew.
      The couple went ‘Instagram official’ with their relationship in October 2020, with Millie calling Levi her “rock and best buddy”.
      She upgraded him to her “king” in a message marking his 30th birthday in 2021.
      It’s not known how they met, but Millie often shares romantic snaps of them holidaying together – and recently posted an Instagram tribute praising his coaching skills.
      Alex Greenwood
      Alex is dating childhood sweetheart Jack O’ConnellCredit: @jackoconnell22
      Man City fullback Alex, 29, is known as the glamour puss of the Lionesses, who’s “very big into her heels, her dresses and her eyelashes” according to teammate Jordan Nobbs.
      She is dating fellow footballer Jack O’Connell, 32, who plays for Sheffield united.  
      The couple both grew up in Merseyside and are childhood sweethearts, having met at Savio Salesian College in Bootle.
      Bethany England
      Beth England and girlfriend Stephanie Williams, with their poochesCredit: Instagram/@bethanyengland4
      As classic example of nominative determinism, Beth England, 29, worked night shifts in a chippy while playing semi-pro before hitting the big time with Chelsea and getting a call up to the national squad.
      She now plays as a forward for Tottenham Hotspur and is in a relationship with footballer Stephanie Williams, 30.
      The pair are believed to have met through the beautiful game and recently enjoyed a luxurious cruise holiday together.
      Though Stephanie does have to share Beth with their beloved pair of Golden Retrievers – Buddy and Dilys.
      Jess Carter
      Jess Carter is dating German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin BergerCredit: Getty
      Chelsea player Jess, 25, has been in a relationship with her teammate Ann-Katrin Berger since 2017, after meeting when she joined Birmingham City in 2016.
      When they met for the first time, Ann-Katrin, 32 – the national goalkeeper for Germany – admitted: “I thought she was arrogant, but as I got to know her, I became drawn into her character.”
      The glam pair, who live together in London, recently posed on the green carpet together at the FIFA Football Awards.
      Ann-Katrin – who beat cancer twice – is also heading to the World Cup, meaning the two women could face each other.
      But it’s likely to cause no drama between them, with Jess telling The Guardian last year: “There wasn’t really any direct competition [during the Euros] because we are both really chilled people.”
      Georgia Stanway
      Georgia is believed to be dating a rugby player, Olly Ashall-BottCredit: Instagram
      Georgia, a midfielder for Bayern Munich, is believed to be in a long-term relationship with rugby league player Olly Ashall-Bott.
      With Olly, 25, playing in France for Toulouse Olympique, the couple are used to long-distance – but he was there to cheer her on at Wembley when England lifted the Euros trophy.
      He wore an England shirt with her name on the back and said afterwards: “I’m just so glad that I got the chance to go see her.
      “I hadn’t caught an England game before because our fixtures didn’t align… I was buzzing and so happy for her and the team.
      Read More on The Sun
      “It sounds weird but it feels like I played in it myself. Because we’re so close, I think I got the same feeling as her – maybe not quite as much but I still feel like I won as well. And sharing moments like that with her is just incredible for me.”
      The couple, who have a house in Widnes, Cheshire, both enjoy fishing in their spare time and share a chocolate brown cockapoo. More

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      in Soccer

      I live next to world’s oldest football stadium – there are crazy benefits but I often get soaked when I sit in my garden

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      IT is thought to be the oldest professional football ground in the world.And residents living next to Mansfield Town’s One Call Stadium are having a ball – even if it means one occasionally lands in their garden.
      Mandy Colley, 49, whose house is next to the away supporters stand of Mansfield Town’s football groundCredit: Raymonds Press
      One Call Stadium – known by fans as the Field Mill – is thought to be the oldest professional football ground in the world
      In the heart of the Nottinghamshire town’s former mining community, the historic ground – formerly known as the Field Mill and dating back as far as 1850 – is slapped bang in the middle of tightly-packed Victorian housing.
      It means that on match days, locals can hear 6,000 fans celebrating a goal from their back yard – and face the double threat of rogue balls and water from the pitch sprinklers ruining sunbathing sessions.

      But there are also unique benefits, including free match tickets in seasons past and the annual spectacle of a dazzling fireworks display.
      As part of our summer series, Life’s a Pitch, which looks at life next to Britain’s weirdest and most wonderful stadiums, we took a trip down to the League Two side’s home turf.
      Read More in Sport
      Tracey Anne Pepper, 56, lives on Lord Street, where houses back on to one side of the One Call.
      The resident of 30 years says: “I absolutely love living here. We are quite lucky because although we are right next to the ground, we don’t get big crowds of people walking up here.
      “But on most match days you will get a handful of away fans wandering around looking a bit lost as they think they will be able to get in.
      “It’s also fun when balls come over during a match. They bounce down the road and people have been known to grab them before anyone comes around to collect them then pretend they didn’t see anything.
      Most read in Football
      Tracey Anne Pepper, 56, says you used to get a free match ticket if a ball landed in your gardenCredit: Raymonds Press
      The 6,000 seater ground overlooks Victorian terracesCredit: Raymonds Press
      “In the past you used to get a free match ticket if you handed back a match ball, but that ended a while ago.
      “But the best thing is probably the atmosphere. If you are a Mansfield fan like me it’s great when you hear a goal go in. The roar is so loud and it really lifts you. You don’t even need to check on your phone or the radio if there has been a goal.”
      Last season Mansfield Town finished eighth in League Two, narrowly missing the play-offs, which would have given them the chance of getting promoted.
      The Stags’ only cup win came when they lifted the English Football League trophy back in 1987, but their loyal fanbase has stuck with them through thick and thin, with a record 5,000 season tickets sold ahead of the upcoming season.
      ‘Like it’s raining’
      Mandy Connolly, 49, lives right next to the ground, and her back garden is just 30 yards from the away stand, with just a fence separating them.
      She’s so close that the pitch sprinklers reach her garden – ruining sunbathing sessions.
      Mandy said: “If you’re not into football, I can see that it might be a bit annoying. But I like it – although I am a Leicester City fan, not Mansfield – so I find living here really interesting.
      “There are loads of funny little things you get when your house is next to a football ground. I can sit in my garden and see the fans in the away end leaping up and down if they score.
      “I have been here six years and had four balls in my garden in that time. Any that aren’t collected I give to local kids, which absolutely delights them.
      “When they water the pitch with the sprinklers it comes into my garden – sometimes it’s like it’s raining, and I have to get my washing in off the line.
      “The pitch is also used as a helipad at times, which must be the owner flying in and out. It’s fascinating to watch the helicopters as they land and take off.
      “And we get a free firework display every bonfire night as the club always hosts a really spectacular one.”
      The cul-de-sac means fans don’t crowd the roads on match days, although you still see the floodlightsCredit: Raymonds Press
      An annual fireworks display divides residentsCredit: mansfieldtownfc/twitter
      While parking can be an issue for those living close to other stadiums on match days, Mansfield locals insist it’s not a problem.
      Lord Street is a cul-de-sac, meaning there is no entrance to the stadium, and since it is so close to the town centre, the council has imposed a residents-only permit system.
      Hotel worker Lesleigh Butler, 36, said: “I’ve been here seven years and have never had a problem.
      When they water the pitch with the sprinklers it comes into my garden – sometimes it’s like it’s raining, and I have to get my washing in off the lineMandy Connolly, local resident
      “The only thing I actually don’t like is the firework display, because the street is left covered in firework casings.
      “Other than that the atmosphere is good and if Mansfield are doing well in the league or cup there is a good feeling on the street because you all feel part of it, living so close.
      “So really we have a lot of the benefits of living next to a stadium, without the negatives like traffic, crowds or litter.
      “A few years ago they were talking about buying up all the houses at the top end of the street so they could redevelop the Bishop Street Stand – but that seems to have gone quiet.
      “A lot of them are owned by people who have been here for years though – which shows it is a nice place to live.”
      Mandy Tolley, 52, works in the Sandy Pate sports bar at the ground.
      Read More on The Sun
      She said: “It’s perfect for me because I can roll out of bed and get straight to work.
      “I’m not a Mansfield fan – you have supporters of all different teams living on this street. But everyone gets on, and overall it’s a pretty happy place.” More

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      in Motorsport

      Rudest ever Formula 1 celebs as Cara Delevingne is slammed – including Hollywood legend’s excruciating gaffe at Miami GP

      by

      DRIVING an F1 car might look like the hardest job on the track.But try being the guy desperately chasing moody celebs around it before lights out.
      Martin Brundle got the cold shoulder from Cara Delevingne this weekendCredit: Sky Sports F1
      Presenter Martin Brundle has become the master of the awkward grid walk, with his run-in with Cara Delevingne over the weekend going viral.
      The Formula One legend, 64, was brutally snubbed by the supermodel and her team when he tried to stop her for a chat, leading him to quip: “I’m sure it would have been extremely interesting.”
      Cara was then slammed by fans for her “garbage behaviour” and forced to clarify on social media that she had been told not to talk.
      At least she can take comfort from the fact that she’s far from the only prickly star to give poor Martin a hard time.

      Grovelling apology
      During the Miami Grand Prix last year, Martin was keen to chat with Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt, who was conducting some research for his upcoming film about the sport.
      When Martin approached him to ask about the project, Brad, 59, appeared to be in a rush to get away from him, saying the film was top secret.
      As the broadcaster attempted to get more out of him, Brad just ignored him with a brief “Thank you, man” and breezed past him.
      Needless to say this didn’t go down well with Formula 1 fans who slammed Brad, saying he should have known who Martin was.
      Most read in Motorsport
      Brad Pitt snubbed Martin but has since made efforts to apologise
      The actor was at Silverstone yesterday for his upcoming Formula One movieCredit: Getty
      It was later revealed that the Oscar-nominated actor had sent a note to Martin explaining why he was unable to stop for a chat.
      He has since gone even further, offering Martin a cameo in the film and sitting down for a gushing interview ahead of the British Grand Prix this week.
      Grovelling much, Brad?
      Double fault
      Serena Williams indicated to Martin that she couldn’t stop for a chatCredit: Getty
      Serena Williams boasts quick feet on the tennis court – and it seems on the tarmac, too.
      When Martin spotted the tennis legend at the US Grand Prix in 2021, he said: “Venus (Williams) wasn’t that keen to talk to me five years ago, I don’t know if I’ll get a double fault or an ace.”
      After waiting for her to finish a conversation, he asked her: “Serena, are you good for a chat? Martin Brundle, British TV.”
      But the 41-year-old coolly indicated she had to be somewhere else, prompting Martin to remark: “It’s a double fault, it’s a double fault.”
      After his encounter with Serena, Martin chose to avoid her altogether at the Miami Grand Prix earlier this year when he breezed past her.
      Mission impossible
      Martin had a quick chat to Tom Cruise at last year’s British Grand PrixCredit: Sky
      Tom Cruise gave very brief answers to Martin’s questionsCredit: Reuters
      Martin had an awkward run-in with Tom Cruise at last year’s British Grand Prix.
      It wasn’t the warmest reception from the Hollywood superstar, who appeared to be keen to get away and gave the briefest of answers to Martin’s questions.
      When Martin congratulated him on the success of his latest Top Gun movie and asked who he was rooting for, Tom replied: “Lewis [Hamilton] always. I love to watch him racing and he’s a good friend of mine. Hopefully, he has a great day.”
      While the actor smiled and clapped Martin on the arm with every answer, he was later criticised for not stopping to give more of his time.
      After the quick chat Martin quipped: “Got pushed around a bit. But he was lovely. Would have liked to have talked to him for a bit longer.”
      Earlier this year Martin revealed he was banned from speaking to Tom on the grid at the Miami GP.
      Awkward burn
      Red Bull boss Christian Horner made a cheeky gag at MartinCredit: YouTube/ Kaushalya KauBoy Prabuddha
      Christian Horner is known for being one of the more outspoken Formula 1 bosses, never afraid to speak his mind.
      But at the 2014 Singapore Grand Prix he got a taste of his own medicine when he tried to throw shade at Martin during an interview.
      Hyping up the incredible Marina Bay track, Christian told him: “It’s a shame you’re too old to have driven here really. You would have liked it.”
      Sharp-tongued Martin hit back: “I am too old, shame you weren’t fast enough to get to Formula 1.” Ouch.
      ‘Learn some manners’
      A member of Megan Thee Stallion’s team barged Martin away when he tried to talk to herCredit: Getty
      At the 2021 US Grand Prix, Martin had yet another clash with a celebrity – this time Grammy Award-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion.
      It all kicked off when Martin asked Megan whether she had a rap about the occasion, to which she responded bluntly “no”.
      When he tried to ask more questions, a member of her security team rudely barged him out of the way – leaving F1 fans fuming.
      Martin later took to Twitter, writing: “I have felt under pressure on the grid before but by people called Senna, Prost, Schumacher, Mansell, Piquet, and so on.
      “Bodyguards visiting the grid for the first time don’t bother me, everyone’s got a job to do, but they could maybe learn some manners and respect on our patch.”
      Star rejection
      Owen Wilson rejected Martin at the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2012Credit: Sky
      Owen n wasn’t up for much of a chat with MartinCredit: Getty
      One of Martin’s most memorable celebrity snubs happened at the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2012, when Owen Wilson clearly wasn’t in the mood for a chat.
      The Night At The Museum star rejected Martin twice, even turning his back on him at one point, before he managed to get a word in.
      When Martin finally managed to get his attention, and asked whether he had been to a race before, Owen gave the deadpan reply: “I went to one in Spain last year,” before walking off.
      Clearly miffed, Martin said: “Owen Wilson at his second Grand Prix, always interesting to know.”
      ‘No comprende’
      Footie star Roberto Carlos told Martin he doesn’t speak EnglishCredit: Sky
      At the 2003 Spanish Grand Prix, Martin was excited when he spotted then-Real Madrid star Roberto Carlos on the grid.
      Asking if he’d be able to have a quick chat for British TV, Roberto, 50, responded in a high-pitched voice: “I don’t understand English.”
      But that didn’t stop Martin probing for gossip on the rumours that David Beckham was set to move to Real Madrid from Manchester United.
      Although Carlos didn’t utter a word, the look on his face spoke volumes and Martin walked away with a smile, joking: “That’s good, ‘no comprende’.” 
      Confusing stars
      Martin thought he was interviewing Patrick Mahomes at the Miami Grand Prix in 2022Credit: Sky
      At the Miami Grand Prix in 2022, Martin suffered an epic blunder when he confused Paolo Banchero, one of the NBA’s hottest stars, for Patrick Mahomes.
      It made for a pretty awkward interview but thankfully, Paolo saw the funny side.
      Read More on The Sun
      Paolo and Patrick later had a good laugh about the encounter on Twitter at Martin’s expense.
      The two men are noticeably different in stature – Paolo is 6ft 10in, while Patrick is 6ft 3in – and both play completely different sports, as Patrick is an NFL star. More