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      in Boxing

      What to know about boxer Conor Benn and his boxing record

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      NOT only is Conor Benn the son of legendary fighter Nigel Benn, he’s also an undefeated former WBA Continental welterweight champion.Although currently serving a doping ban, Conor hit the headlines in October 2024 for squaring up with the son of another pugilistic great — his fierce rival Chris Eubank Jr.Conor Benn is a former WBA Continental welterweight championCredit: GettyHe is also the son of former two-weight world champ Nigel BennCredit: PAWho is Conor Benn?Born on September 28, 1996, in Greenwich, London, Conor Benn — nicknamed “The Destroyer” — is the son of former two-weight world champion Nigel Benn. Despite growing up in a life of privilege, Conor chose to pursue boxing the hard way.Instead of relying on his family’s wealth and connections, he built his career from the ground up.Early life and careerHe was raised in a luxury mansion in Majorca, Spain — but later moved to Australia with his family.read more on conor bennIt was in Australia that Benn first picked up boxing gloves, initially just for fun.His amateur career in Sydney saw him win 20 out of 22 bouts. When Benn decided to pursue boxing professionally, he moved back to England at the age of 19, leaving behind the comfortable life he knew in Australia.Since making his debut on April 9, 2016, he has refined his skills and steadily climbed the ranks in the welterweight division.Most read in BoxingCancelled fight with Chris Eubank JrOne of the most anticipated fights in Benn’s career was scheduled for October 2022 against Eubank Jr.The bout was set to continue the rivalry between their fathers, who had legendary fights in the 1990s.Conor Benn launches X-rated blast at bitter rival Chris Eubank JrHowever, the fight was cancelled due to doping allegations against Benn.Doping banIn the lead-up to the fight with Eubank Jr, it was revealed that Benn had tested positive for a banned substance.This led to the cancellation of the fight and a subsequent investigation by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC).Benn has consistently denied any intentional wrongdoing regarding the doping allegations.He released a statement saying: “I am still completely shocked and in disbelief by this and will be working with my team and my lawyers to understand what has happened and I will be commenting further when I can.”Boxing record and opponentsConor Benn has an impressive professional record of 23 wins and 0 losses, with 14 of those victories coming by way of knockout — meaning he’s won 61% of his fights by KO.Benn and Eubank Jr were scheduled to fight in October 2022, but was cancelled due to doping allegations against The DestroyerCredit: GettyBenn’s professional fights:Peter Dobson (February 3, 2024, Las Vegas) – UD, 12 roundsChris van Heerden (April 15, 2022, Manchester) – TKO, Round 2Chris Algieri (December 10, 2021, Liverpool) – KO, Round 4Adrian Granados (September 3, 2021, Leeds) – UD, 10 roundsSamuel Vargas (April 9, 2021, London) – TKO, Round 1Sebastian Formella (November 20, 2020, London) – UD, 10 roundsSteve Jamoye (October 25, 2019, London) – TKO, Round 4Jussi Koivula (June 21, 2019, London) – TKO, Round 2Josef Zhradnik (April 20, 2019, London) – SD, 8 roundsCedrick Peynaud (July 27, 2018, London) – UD, 10 roundsChris Truman (April 20, 2018, Liverpool) – TKO, Round 4Cedrick Peynaud (December 12, 2017, London) – UD, 6 roundsBrandon Sanudo (November 11, 2017, Uniondale) – KO, Round 2Kane Baker (September 1, 2017, London) – TKO, Round 2Ross Jameson (September 24, 2016, Manchester) – PTS, 6 roundsLukas Radic (September 10, 2016, London) – TKO, Round 1Luke Keleher (June 25, 2016, London) – PTSIvailo Boyanov (April 9, 2016, London) – TKO, Round 1Steven Backhouse (December 10, 2016, Manchester) – KO, Round 1Mike Cole (March 25, 2017, Manchester) – TKO, Round 3Csaba Kovacs (April 15, 2017, Manchester) – TKO, Round 2Danny Little (June 23, 2017, Newcastle) – PTSNathan Clarke (October 7, 2017, Manchester) – TKO, Round 1Benn and Eubank Jr had a heated exchange in RiyahdCredit: X@CHRISEUBANKJRSquaring Up with Chris Eubank JrThe rivalry between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr has continued to simmer despite their cancelled fight.Benn had to be separated from Brit rival Chris Eubank Jr after him during an impromptu face-off.Eubank Jr was in the final stages of cutting weight for his Saudi showdown with Kamil Szeremeta on Saturday, October 12, 2024, night when he was accosted by Benn in the fighter hotel.Ben started the trouble by shouting: “Oi, Chris. Don’t f**k up the bag, son. Don’t f**k up the bag.”After Eubank Jr said he “liked” the energy he was showing, Benn said: “You like what? You’re lucky you’re fighting tomorrow [or] I’d f**k you up right now.”A visibly drained Eubank Jr smiled before saying: “You see this guy comes in when I’m cutting weight.””Cutting weight?” Benn fiercly replied. “I’ll see you tomorrow after the fight, I’m going to get into that ring and f***ing give it to you.”You’re f***ing lucky you’re fighting tomorrow. You’re lucky mate.”READ MORE SUN STORIESEubank continued to grin like a Cheshire cat before saying: “I like this energy. You’re a kid. Watch what happens. You’re a p***k.”That proved to be the final straw for Benn, who shoved the former IBO super-middleweight champion before security separated them. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Ahmed Alsanawi: A Star Barbers owner & stylist to Premier League footballers Grealish, Foden, Solanke & James

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      AHMED Alsanawi is the founder and owner of A Star Barbers, a high-profile barbershop in Chessington, Surrey.It has become the go-to destination for many professional footballers in need of a new style.Ahmed Alsanawi is the owner of A Star Barbers, which boasts a clientele including some of the biggest footballing stars in the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunWho is Ahmed Alsanawi?Nicknamed “A-Star”, Ahmed Alsanawi’s journey from a self-taught barber to a stylist for football’s elite is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and relationship-building.His journey into the world of barbering began with a passion for hairstyling and an entrepreneurial spirit after emigrating to the UK from Iraq in the 2000s.Alongside his wife Tanya, he opened A Star Barbers with the goal of creating a welcoming space where clients could receive quality haircuts and grooming services.Since its establishment in 2013, it has gained a reputation for providing top-notch grooming services.read more on a star barbersThe barbershop quickly became known for its skilled stylists and exceptional service, making it a favourite among local residents and professional athletes alike.It has attracted high-profile clientele — including some of the biggest names in football.A hub for footballersA Star Barbers has established itself as a go-to destination for footballers, particularly those associated with Chelsea due to its proximity to the club’s Cobham Training Centre.Alsanawi cut so many Blues players hair that he earned the nickname “Chelsea’s official barber”.Most read in FootballThe shop’s reputation has grown significantly over the years, thanks to Alsanawi’s talent and ability to connect with his clients.Many players trust him not just for haircuts — but also for styling advice.High-profile clientsJack GrealishJack Grealish is a regular at A Star BarbersCredit: TikTok / @astarbarbersJack Grealish was filmed getting his hair styled at the hairdressers in October 2024.A TikTok clip shared by A Star Barbers shows the star having dye applied, before blonde highlights are unveiled and his hair is blow-dried.Grealish has been a regular client, with Alsanawi regularly maintaining his signature style.In May 2022, he also visited for a trim before Manchester City’s Premier League title celebrations.The playmaker also visited in February of the same year, subsequently sharing a video of the barber shaving his hair, showcasing their close relationship.Romeo BeckhamRomeo Beckham dropped in for a cut in October 2022Credit: InstagramIn October 2022, David Beckham’s son Romeo visited A Star Barbers for a haircut.A clip of the Inter Miami forward was posted on social media after his trim was completed.The barbers’ Instagram account added the caption: “Nice to meet you bro @romeobeckham.”Paul PogbaPaul Pogba flies Alsanawi around the world to cut his hairCredit: Instagram / @paulpogbaPaul Pogba is a long-time client of Alsanawi.The Juventus man stopped by in September 2022 for a new look shocked his former Man U teammate Jesse Lingard.Pogba shared a clip of his haircut on Instagram alongside the caption: “No limit for the new look yeassirr! 🙌🏾🔥.”After A-Star was finished, Pogba jokingly put him in a headlock and gave him a noogie — the barber didn’t look too pleased.Lingard replied in the comments to poke fun at the ex-United star, joking that Pogba was a bully.He said: “Shock A-Star getting bullied again! Fresh trip PP.”In June 2022, Alsanawi gave Pogba a haircut just before his transfer from Manchester United to Juventus, hinting at the move on social media.He also visited the shop in May 2022 for a fresh cut, and there have been reports of Pogba being a client since 2017.The midfielder has even been known to fly Alsanawi to various locations for trims, including to the French national team’s training camp before the 2018 World Cup.Eden HazardAlsanawi flew to Madrid to style HazardIn November 2022, Alsanawi posted a video of himself flying to Madrid to give Hazard a haircut.This wasn’t the first time Alsanawi had travelled for Hazard.In April 2021, during the coronavirus pandemic, he flew to Spain to cut Hazard’s hair.This move unsurprisingly caused some controversy due to travel restrictions.Other notable clientsFoden had his hair cut by Alsanawi during the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: InstagramOther superstars of the footballing world to visit A Star Barbers include:Expansion of A Star BarbersAs A Star Barbers gained popularity among professional athletes, Alsanawi decided to expand his business.He opened additional locations while maintaining the same level of quality service that made the original shop successful.The brand now includes multiple outlets catering to a wider clientele while still being closely connected to the world of professional football.Alsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunInnovative product rangeIn addition to providing exceptional grooming services, Alsanawi launched a line of haircare products called Fini by A-Star in May 2018.These products are designed specifically for men and feature unique formulations.This expansion into product development showcases Alsanawi’s commitment to enhancing men’s grooming experiences beyond just haircuts.Social media presenceAlsanawi’s work extends beyond the barbershop — he has cultivated a significant social media, where he shares photos of his work and interactions with high-profile clients.His Instagram account often features images of footballers sporting fresh cuts, giving fans an inside look at their favourite players’ grooming routines.Ahmed Alsanawi and his team (left to right) — Huw West, Abdullah Alsanawi, Ahmed Alsanawi and Jake McCoy.Credit: Oliver Dixon – The SunAs of October 11, 2024, Alsanawi’s account @astarbarbers has over a million followers. Chelsea banIn 2017, there were reports that Chelsea had banned Alsanawi from their training ground due to his frequent posting of selfies with players on social media.However, this setback didn’t deter Alsanawi, who continued to build his brand and clientele beyond Chelsea.One of Alsanawi’s proudest achievements was working with the French national team at the 2018 World Cup finals and receiving a shout-out from the players after their victory.He also served as the England team’s on-hand barber in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe futureAlsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the world.He continues to work on growing his product line and maintaining his status as one of the most sought-after barbers in the world of sport. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Saffie Khan: Model who is expecting a baby with England and Liverpool star Curtis Jones

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      SAFFIE KHAN is a model and social media influencer who’s in a relationship with rising Liverpool star Curtis Jones.The couple made headlines with the joyous announcement in May 2024 that they are expecting their first child.Saffie Khan and her partner Curtis Jones, who stars for Liverpool and EnglandCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Who is Saffie Khan?Saffie Khan has built a substantial following on social media platforms.As of October 10, 2024, she has almost 70k followers on Instagram, where she regularly shares glimpses of her life and modelling work.Her striking looks and fashionable posts have garnered her a dedicated fan base, contributing to her status as an influencer. Saffie is signed to M Models Management and has appeared in various fashion shoots.read more on curtis jonesRelationship with Curtis JonesSaffe and Liverpool and England ace Curtis Jones began dating in 2019, but until recently kept their romance private on social media.Curtis has been a rising star in football since his youth, joining Liverpool’s youth academy in 2010, before being promoted to the first team in 2018 at the age of 17.Jones was a bit-part player when Liverpool won the Premier League in 2020 and the FA Cup in 2022, but has become an important part of the squad in the last two years.His fine form was rewarded with an England call up by Lee Carsley in October 2024, who previously coached Jones when he helped England Under-21s win the U21 Euros in 2023.Most read in FootballJones and Saffie’s romance has become a point of interest for football fans and celebrity-watchers alike.Pregnancy announcementOn May 15, 2024, Saffie and Curtis shared the exciting news of her pregnancy through a joint Instagram post.Fans and players old and new were quick to congratulate the happy couple.Liverpool’s Owen Beck wrote “Congrats to both of you”, while Daniel Sturrage posted “Congrats bro”.Liverpool ace Curtis Jones aims sly dig at Arsenal for ‘stealing their stuff’ after wild celebrations following huge winOther Reds legends who shared their good wishes with the happy couple include Ryan Gravenberch, Bobby Clark, Stefan Bajcetic, Tyler Morton, Rhian Brewster, Rhys Williams and Neco Williams.In October 2024, Saffie shared a pregnancy update on Instagram.She said: “Ready for my autumn baby.”One follower commented: “What a perfect time of year to have a baby too, so much indoor bonding time! You look gorgeous! So excited for you.” Saffie and Curtis revealed they are expecting in an Insta postCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Another gushed: “Gorgeous lady, so excited for you.” A third added: “So stunning.”Saffie has used Instagram to keep her followers updated on her pregnancy journey.Her openness about the experience has further endeared her to fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs they navigate this new phase of their lives, it seems likely that Saffie will continue to share updates and insights through her social media accounts.And her profile is likely to continue rising — both as a model, and as a partner to one of England’s top young footballers. More

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      in Soccer

      Why isn’t Harry Kane starting for England tonight?

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      HARRY KANE has been on fire for the Three Lions of late, scoring a brace against Finland last time out.But the England captain and talisman will not be starting against Greece when the match kicks off at 7.45 pm on October 10 — here we take a look at why.Harry Kane went down in the 72nd minute during Bayern’s 3-3 draw with FrankfurtCredit: GettyThe England skipper requred treatment and was replaced by Mathys TelCredit: GettyWhy isn’t Harry Kane starting against Greece?Harry Kane will not be starting the match as a precaution because of a minor knock he picked up while playing in the Bundesliga.He sustained the injury during Bayern Munich’s 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, October 6, 2024.The Three Lions’ skipper needed 72nd-minute treatment and was replaced by Mathys Tel — just days ahead of two Nations League ties.This came came after Kane hurt his ankle late in a 1-1 home draw with Bayern Leverkusen the week before.read more on harry kaneThe injury prevented him from training with Lee Carsley’s England squad in the run-up to the Greece game, leading to his exclusion from the starting lineup for the Nations League match.The exact nature of the injury has not been reported.What Lee Carsley said about KaneInterim England manager Lee Carsley is taking a cautious approach with Kane’s fitness.He also confirmed Kane was doing individual training sessions on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the match.Most read in FootballCarsley said: “Harry’s nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won’t take a chance with.””We’re not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won’t start the game.”Hopefully he’ll be in contention then for Sunday (against Finland) but, again, time will tell.”It’s not something I think we should be rushing.”So while Kane won’t be starting the match, he hasn’t been ruled out completely.I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselvesLee CarsleyThere’s still a possibility he could be available as a substitute, though this remains uncertain.The team is hopeful that Kane may be able to play against Finland on October 13.Importance of cautionThis careful management of Kane’s injury is particularly important given his history of injuries.Over the years, Kane has dealt with various issues, including ankle, knee and hamstring problems.The team’s cautious approach aims to protect his long-term fitness and ensure he’s available for crucial matches in the future.What else do we know about the squad?Carsley confirmed that John Stones will step in to captain England for the first time as he picks up his 82nd cap.He also mentioned that Tino Livramento and Curtis Jones have been moved up from the under-21s and will be in the squad.The FA gave an update on Kane, and also Jack Grealish: “Harry Kane continued his individualised programme at St George’s Park on Wednesday [October 9] while Jack Grealish also sat out of training as a precaution with a minor knock.”Carsley emphasised a cautious approach with player fitness, stating: “I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselves.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also mentioned the abundance of options the national side is currently blessed with: “There were a lot of players who were close to this squad. With the talent we have available, it would have been possible to pick a 40-man squad and justify having them all in.”The challenge is making sure we pick a competitive squad and a squad that can win the two games.” More

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      in Boxing

      Who is Frazer Clarke’s girlfriend Danni-Leigh Robinson and do they have children together?

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      DANNI-LEIGH Robinson is the partner of Olympic boxer Frazer Clarke.The mum-of-two is also an accomplished businesswoman, who juggles her life as a parent with her work and her partner’s fame. Here’s everything you need to know about her.Danni-Leigh Robinson’s beauty clinic offers a wide range of treatmentsCredit: Instagram/dannileighrFrazer Clarke is a rising star in the UK boxing sceneCredit: Reuters- Action ImagesWho is Danni-Leigh Robinson?Not much is known about Danni as she keeps much of the family’s personal life private.However, she does share snaps of the family to her 2000 followers on Instagram.Danni’s partner Frazer is boxing champion who won a bronze medal at the 2020 Olympics. He had also won a silver medal at the 2017 European Championships.Read more in sportsWhat does Danni-Leigh Robinson’s do for work?Danni-Leigh is a businesswoman who owns a beauty clinic named D.R. Aesthetics.Her shop specialises in beauty and hair treatments, but has branched out into new areas such as kid’s parties.Fans can see some of the amazing results from Danni’s treatments on the shop’s Instagram.Danni sometimes shares snaps of the family on InstagramCredit: Instagram/dannileighrDo Danni-Leigh Robinson and Frazer Clarke have children?Danni and Frazer have welcomed two children, since they got together. Most read in BoxingThey have one daughter named Mila and another called Trent.Danni, gave birth to Trent in May 2021, while training for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers. He said that the birth of his son “really motivated” him and was one of the “best moments of his life”. Frazer added: “Him and my little daughter Mila – their presence and them being around is willing me on so much.”The boxer opened up about how he supported his wife through the birth of their son while wearing PPE, since some COVID restrictions were still in place. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Amanda Kimberlly: Model who is mother to Brazilian icon Neymar’s third child

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      AMANDA Kimberlly is a Brazilian model and social media influencer who gave birth to Neymar’s third child.Here we take a look at her background and connection to the famous footballer.Amanda Kimberlly is a model and influencerCredit: INSTAGRAM @akimberllyaWho is Amanda Kimberlly?Amanda Kimberlly was born on October 7, 2001.She hails from Parana, Brazil, but has settled in the country’s capital city, Sao Paulo.Kimberlly came to prominence by appearing on the Brazilian dating reality show Are You the One? in 2016.Model and influencerKimberlly is a model and an influencer who has amassed a significant following on social media.read more on neymarShe has a million followers on Instagram as of October 8, 2024.Despite her impressive audience, she maintains a relatively low profile on the platform, having shared around only 25 posts.Her content showcases her modelling career — stylish photos featuring her in various fashionable outfits.Charity workBeyond her modelling career and newfound motherhood, Kimberlly is also involved in charitable work.Most read in FootballShe works with an organisation called Project Gaia, but details of her role are not available.Although most of Kimberlly’s lines of employment are very much in the public eye, it seems she does her best to maintain a relatively low profile.Neymar slashes team-mate’s tyres in response to harmless shoelace prank as fans say ‘that’s a bit extreme’Relationship with NeymarThe exact nature and timeline of Kimberlly’s relationship with Neymar remains somewhat unclear.Their connection became public knowledge when rumours began circulating in January 2024 that Neymar was expecting a child with a Brazilian model.The gossip was particularly controversial because it emerged shortly after Neymar had separated from Bruna Biancardi, with whom he had welcomed a daughter named Mavie in October 2023.It appears that Kimberlly’s pregnancy might have resulted from a brief affair with Neymar, which reportedly occurred while the footballer was recovering from a knee injury.Amanda Kimberlly is also the mother of Neymar’s third childCredit: INSTAGRAM @akimberllyaThis suggests the apparent fling was relatively short-lived and may have overlapped with Neymar’s previous relationship.There is no indication that Neymar and Kimberlly are in a romantic relationship.They reportedly don’t even follow each other on social media platforms, suggesting their connection is primarily centred around baby Helena.DNA test controversyWhen news of Kimberlly’s pregnancy first broke, Neymar reportedly demanded a DNA test to confirm his paternity.Neymar reportedly demanded a DNA test to prove he was the fatherCredit: GettyThis request came amid rumours of his infidelity while still in a relationship with his ex Biancardi.The situation was further complicated by the fact that Kimberlly was already three months pregnant when the news became public, coinciding with Neymar’s recovery period from the knee injury.In January 2023, Brazilian tabloid Portal LeoDias reported: “Neymar is going to be a father for the third time.“The mother is a Brazilian model who is three months pregnant.Amanda Kimberlly also works for the charityCredit: INSTAGRAM @akimberllya“She fell pregnant while they were having an affair, including while the footballer was recovering from a knee injury.”There is concern about the health of the baby’s mother, who recently had to undergo some treatments.“The pregnancy was a surprise, but they were having a romance.”Birth of HelenaHelena, Neymar’s third child, was born on July 7, 2024.The news of her birth was announced by Neymar on his Instagram account, where he shared a series of photos featuring the newborn. Neymar wrote: “You are already much loved by this family! Welcome my daughter!”READ MORE SUN STORIESKimberlly also took to social media to announce Helena’s birth, sharing a photo of the baby’s foot and thanking God for the blessing of her daughter.She also expressed gratitude to her family and the medical team who assisted during the delivery. More

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      in Motorsport

      F1 team chief Flavio Briatore, 74, ‘rekindles romance with 44-year-old model ex-wife Elisabetta Gregoraci’

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      F1 heavyweight Flavio Briatore has rekindled his romance with former wife Elisabetta Gregoraci, according to reports in Italy.Briatore – who currently works as a special advisor to F1 team Alpine and part-owned QPR from 2007 to 2011 – married Elisabetta in 2008. Former model wife Elisabetta Gregoraci is the ex-wife of Flavio BriatoreCredit: InstagramElisabetta got married to Alpine special advisor Briatore in 2008Credit: InstagramElisabetta has one son with BriatoreCredit: InstagramThe couple, who split in 2017, pictured here in 2014Credit: Getty – ContributorThe couple are now linked with a rekindlingCredit: Getty Images – GettyTwo years later they welcomed son Nathan into the world but by 2017 the couple separated after nine years of marriage. Briatore, 71, already had a daughter, Leni Olumi Klum, from a previous marriage to German-American model and TV host Heidi Klum.Elisabetta, 44, has been romantically linked with Florentine entrepreneur Giulio Fratini in recent years.But reports in Italy state the two have drifted apart while Elisabetta remains close with Briatore. READ MORE IN F1Briatore meanwhile has been linked with Naomi Campbell, former Ralph Lauren model Kat Mack, and Polish model Marzena Cieslik in the past. The former team principal of Renault F1 recently posed for a “family selfie” with his two ex-wives and son Nathan and daughter Leni.Now, according to Dagiospa and Gazzetta dello Sport, Briatore and Elisabetta – who are almost 30-years apart in age – have rekindled their romance.But that is not the only love drama to hit the F1 track.Most read in MotorsportBritish driving sensation Oliver Bearman is reportedly caught up in a love triangle.The 19-year-old reserve driver is rumoured to have broken up with girlfriend Estelle Oglivy. TikToker Estelle Ogilvy’s glam life as she splits time between jetting to watch F1 boyfriend Oliver Bearman and studying But the aspiring model is said to be getting back with another up and coming F1 star ex.Bearman, who made a sensational F1 debut earlier this year for Ferrari, was previously dating Oglivy – a 22-year-old law graduate who has over 130,000 followers on Instagram.But the pair seem to have called quits on their relationship, despite Ogliviy heading out to support Bearman during his one and only F1 appearance back in March in Saudi Arabia.According to @F1GossipOfficial, a gossip social media account that follows the latest off-track news from F1, the pair have unfollowed each other on Instagram.Oglivy has also unfollowed F1 team Haas, who Bearman has secured a full-time seat with from 2025.The social media activity has sparked rumours of a split.And another online decision from Oglivy, who is of French and British heritage, is leading people to believe she has returned to date ex-boyfriend Franco Colapinto.Colapinto, 21, is currently competing in F1 for Williams where he replaced Logan Sargeant after the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Argentine driver was previously rumoured to be dating Oglivy before she went public with Bearman.And since the apparent breakup from Brit sensation Bearman, Oglivy has re-followed ex Colapinto – sparking rumours of the pair rekindling their relationship.Oliver Bearman could have found himself caught up in an F1 love triangleCredit: AlamyThe rising star appears to have broken up with girlfriend Estelle OglivyCredit: Instagram/silly_lettuceOglivy has sparked rumours of a return to an ex-boyfriendCredit: Instagram / @silly_lettuceThe law graduate has re-followed Williams driver Franco ColapintoCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Who is Lassana Diarra? Ex-Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid star dubbed ‘new Makelele’ & at centre of new transfer ruling

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      LASSANA DIARRA is the man at the centre of what could be a REVOLUTION in how football runs and operates.The retired France international, 39, is a blast from the past for many football fans but hit the headlines after a landmark court ruling over transfers.Lassana Diarra played three seasons at ChelseaCredit: AP:Associated PressWhat happened with Lassana Diarra’s court case?Diarra sued Fifa after it upheld a £16MILLION that was imposed by his former club, Lokomotiv Moscow, following his sacking for allegedly boycotting training over a pay dispute in 2014.Diarra’s case was heard by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg, the highest court in Europe.In a landmark decision, Diarra WON the case after his legal team argued that Fifa had broken European labour laws by refusing to issue the International Transfer Certificate which would have allowed him to join another club and exercise his rights as a professional. The ECJ ruling has now declared current regulations are in breach of EU Law on the free of movement of people.Inside Lassana Diarra’s legal case with FifaLassana Diarra’s case with Fifa dates back to 2014 when he was playing for Lokomotiv Moscow.The former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder was in a dispute with Lokomotiv over wages – with the Russian side ultimately terminating his contract.The case was referred to Fifa’s Dispute and Resolution Chamber (DRC) which ruled against Diarra, fining him £16MILLION.During this time, Diarra received a new contract offer from Belgian side Charleroi.But Charleroi wanted clarification from Fifa that they would not be liable to pay any of the money owed to Lokomotiv.Fifa could not make that guarantee and the move never happened.As a result, Diarra brought new legal action against Fifa and the Belgian league claiming a loss of earnings.That started the long process that has led to this week’s groundbreaking judgment.Diarra’s lawyer was Jean Louis Dupont, the man who had previously transformed the sport in the mid-1990s by successfully working for the introduction of the Bosman ruling, which allowed players to move for free once their contract was up.The Court ruled: “The rules in question are such as to impede the free movement of professional footballers wishing to develop their activity by going to work for a new club.“Those rules impose considerable legal risks, unforeseeable and potentially very high financial risks as well as major sporting risks on those players and clubs wishing to employ them which, taken together, are such as to impede international transfers of those players.”What are the ramifications of the ruling?Potential ramifications could be huge depending on the full judgement, which will be published later today.Most read in FootballIf the Court has made a strong ruling, it could effectively declare the entire current system is in breach of EU Law.That would see Fifa losing its current authority over the transfer system and allow players the right to break their contracts and change clubs with impunity.In turn, that would end the current “trickle down” system where many smaller clubs are reliant on transfer income.Such an outcome would lead to big stars being able to hawk their services for free but for huge wages, allowing the wealthiest clubs – including the bulk of the Premier League – the opportunity to hoover up the best talent.How football changed after Bosman rulingTHE Bosman Ruling transformed football transfers in 1995.Before the Bosman Ruling, clubs could demand a transfer fee for a player even after their contract had expired.But Belgian footballer Jean-Marc Bosman went to the European Court of Justice and the judge ruled in his favour.And that meant that when a player’s contract expired, they could move freely to another club within the EU without a transfer fee.The landmark court case gave players far more power in the final year of their deals – with clubs either needing to extend them or lose them for nothing at the end of the season.Footballers can now also sign pre-contract agreements with new clubs from January when their deals run out to move on a free transfer.The Bosman Ruling essentially removed the restrictions on EU football players with expired contracts, giving them the same rights as free agents and increasing the freedom of movement.And even with the UK leaving the EU, the Bosman Ruling still applies for Premier League clubs.Who is Lassana Diarra?Lassana, known as ‘Lass’ during his career, was born on March 10, 1985, in Paris to Malian parents.His first club was Paris FC but he bounced around academies, playing for Nantes, Le Mans and Red Star 93 before joining Le Havre aged 18 in 2003.Lassana Diarra became a key player at Real Madrid, winning two trophiesCredit: Action Images – ReutersDiarra had an outstanding first season in senior football, impressing in Ligue 1 and breaking into the Francer Under-21 team.He was then spotted by Chelsea, with chief scout Gwyn Williams dubbing him the new [Claude] Makelele – the Blues spent £1million to secure his signature.Diarra spent three seasons at Stamford Bridge and was named the 2005-06 Young Player of the Year – despite playing just seven matches. He played 31 games in all and was part of the side that won the League Cup and FA Cup in 2007, before moving to Arsenal.Diarra spent just one season in north London, playing only 13 matches, before a move to Portsmouth where he played 32 matches in two seasons, impressing despite struggling with injuries.Diarra then completed a shock move to Real Madrid for around £19m and became one of their key players over the next four seasons, playing 117 games between 2008 and 2012, as well as winning the Copa del Rey in 2011 and La Liga in 2012.Lassana Diarra’s career statsLassana Diarra played for some of the top clubs in Europe as an all-action defensive midfielder.He started at Le Havre before earning his big break with a £4million move to Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea in 2005.Diarra was largely a rotation option but won an FA Cup and League Cup double with the Blues before a brief move across London to join Arsenal.But it was at Portsmouth where Diarra really made his name, winning a historic FA Cup and earning a massive £19m move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.Diarra played 117 times in five seasons for Los Blancos, winning one LaLiga title, again under Mourinho, and the Copa Del Rey.Then came Diarra’s fateful move to Russia, first Anzhi Makhachkala and then Lokomotiv Moscow, before he saw out his playing career in his native France with Marseille and then PSG, where he won one Liga 1 crown.Le Havre (2003–2005)Chelsea (2005–2007)Portsmouth (2008–2009)Real Madrid (2009–2012)Anzhi Makhachkala (2012–2013)Lokomotiv Moscow (2013–2015)Marseille (2015–2017)Al Jazira (2017–2018)Paris Saint-Germain (2018–2019)A move to Anzhi Makhachkala followed before a move to Lokomotiv Moscow – which is where he fell foul of coach Leonid Kuchuk.Diarra was allegedly asked to take a pay cut and then is said to have refused to turn up to training – Diarra was eventually sacked and later ordered to pay a huge fine and missed a season of football.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe then had spells at Marseille and Al Jazira before finishing his career with Paris Saint-Germain, where helped Unai Emery win the treble in 2017-18.An international for France, Diarra won 34 caps and was named in the 2010 World Cup squad and the Euro 2016 squad. However, he did not play any tournament football due to a blood disorder in 2010 and injury in 2016. More