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      in Soccer

      Meet the stunning Europa League Wags cheering on Man Utd & Tottenham… from a glam doctor to Molly-Mae’s bestie

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      WITH 80,000 fans heading to Bilbao and millions more glued to TV sets, the Europa League final is one of the biggest sporting events of the year.And there’s plenty at stake as Tottenham face off against Manchester United tonight in the much anticipated match.Famous WAG Fern Hawkins is married to Harry MaguireCredit: GettyMan Utd’s Diogo Dalot proposed to his stunning girlfriend Claudia Pinto LopesCredit: Instagram / @diogodalotThe winning team could receive up to £54.4million and will earn a place in the Champions League for next season.It’s a dream ticket for the victorious team, and they’ll be cheered on all the way by their glamorous wives and girlfriends.The supporting stars are a talented bunch themselves and have proved to be true keepers in the lads’ lives. BETTING OFFER – GET EITHER TEAM TO WIN THE EUROPA LEAGUE AT 40/1READ MORE SPORT We take a look at some of the stunning Manchester United and Spurs WAGs who might make you take your eye off the ball – from a star philanthropist to the daughter of a mayor.MANCHESTER UNITEDClaudia Pinto and Diogo Dalot The couple have been dating since 2020Credit: Instagram/ClaudiaspintolopesClaudia posts her lavish WAG lifestyle on her social mediaCredit: Instagram/laudiaspintolopesClaudia Pinto, 25, is engaged to Portugese full-back Diogo Dalot, 26, and they have a one-year-old daughter. The pair, who have been dating since 2020, regularly post loved-up snaps on social media. Claudia joined Dalot in Italy when he spent a year with AC Milan during 2020.Most read in FootballEarlier this month she posted snaps from her glamorous hen party online. The WAG appears to live the life of luxury and keeps fans up to date with her regular outfit and make-up Instagram posts. Fern Hawkins and Harry MaguireFern and Harry tied the knot in 2022Credit: InstagramFern now owns her own businessCredit: InstagramHarry Maguire slow dances with wife Fern Hawkins at lavish wedding Science graduate and former physiotherapist Fern has been married to Harry since 2022 but they met when they were just 18 years old. The pair have two daughters, Lillie Saint Maguire, six, and Piper Rose, four. Last year entrepreneur Fern decided to open her own florist. She targeted the celebrity party market and even named her business venture after her daughters – The Saint Rose Floristry. Loyal Fern, 30, previously spoke out in support of her husband, 32, after he was arrested in Mykonos following a drunken bust-up outside a nightclub in August 2020.She slammed “lying” Greek cops for trying to ruin the Man United defender’s “reputation”. Melanie Kamayou and Andre Onana Melanie Kamayou is a pharmacist doctorCredit: instagram @ melaniekamayouMelanie first started dating Andre in 2019Credit: instagram @ melaniekamayouMelanie Kamayou, 29, is a pharmacist doctor and businesswoman, acting as co-chair of the Andre Onana Foundation. Melanie and goalkeeper Andre Onana, 29, married in 2023 after first being spotted together in 2019. She was left devastated after being robbed of her £62,000 Hermes Birkin bag and a Rolex watch outside a restaurant in Alderley Edge, Cheshire earlier this year. The pair still look loved-up and support each other on and off the pitch, with Melanie travelling across four different countries to watch Onana play.The social media star and model has been in the stands supporting Onana at Ajax in the Netherlands, Inter Milan in Italy, Manchester United and away on international duty for Cameroon.Anouska Santos and Luke ShawAnouska Santos is close friends with Love Island star Molly-MaeCredit: Getty ImagesThe pair typically keep their relationship privateCredit: Instagram @anouskasantosAnouska Santos, 28, owns an accessories brand, Treats Studios, and is good friends with influencer and former Love Island star Molly-Mae Hague. While Anouska is a familiar face among the Premier League WAGs, she and boyfriend Luke Shaw keep a very private relationship but have been posting together on social media since 2017. The pair have three children – a boy, four, and two girls, one and two. Anouska recently jetted to Germany to support England star Luke, 29, and fans were quick to compliment her flawless outfit. Maja Nilsson and Victor Lindelof Maja has been dubbed the Premier League’s hottest WAGCredit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofMaja is a popular Instagram modelCredit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofThe pair got married in 2018Credit: Instagram/majanilssonlindelofMaja Nilsson, 25, and Swedish defender Victor Lindelof, 30, tied the knot in 2018 and Maja has since been dubbed the Premier League’s hottest Wag, with fans calling her the “finest of the finest”. Maja is a keen influencer and fashion entrepreneur, with more than 250,000 followers on Instagram.She recently starred on the cover of a glossy magazine and showed off her flawless bump as she is currently pregnant with the pair’s third child. Sadly the family experienced a horrific break-in during 2022 and Maja was forced to lock herself and her children in a room after intruders broke into their home. Anna Mariana and Casemiro Anna has two children with her football crazy husbandCredit: Instagram/annamarianacasemiroAnna Mariana is a makeup artistCredit: Instagram/annamarianacasemiroCasemiro plays for Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyAnna Mariana Casemiro, 35, is a Brazilian makeup artist and shares two children with the United midfielder. It was rumoured in 2023 that Casemiro had been cheating on his wife for years, but Anna hit back on social media. She said: “Oh man, really? Best to investigate your sources first, I just look around and know it’s not him.”The pair got together in 2011 and tied the knot three years later.Anna made headlines last year for defending her husband on Instagram after his performance during a clash against Liverpool was criticised. She swiftly posted a picture of Casemiro’s trophy cabinet – reminding fans of his talents. Ana Pinho and Bruno Fernandes Ana Pinho and United captain Bruno Fernandes met when they were teensCredit: Instagram/anaapinho_Ana stuns fans in her bikiniCredit: Instagram/anaapinho_Ana and United captain Bruno, both 30, are childhood sweethearts and got together at just 17 years old. Bruno has since revealed that Ana used to pay for the pair’s dates as he was broke as a teenager. He wrote online: “Ana has been with me on this ride since we were 16, 17, 18 years old.“We met as teenagers, and when we first started dating, I wasn’t making any money as a footballer, and she had a nice job working as a futsal referee on the weekends.”The couple met in their hometown of Boavista and they share a daughter, seven, and a son, four.Sabrina Kvist Jensen and Christian EriksenThe loved up couple at the 2023 Laureus World Sport AwardsCredit: GettyChristian Eriksen and Sabrina Kvist Jensen with their son AlfieCredit: chriseriksen8/InstagramTrained hairdresser Sabrina has been in a relationship with midfielder Christian since 2016 and they have a young son called Alfie. Sabrina worked for a clothing company when they first moved to the UK. The Danish couple prefer to keep a low profile, but Christian has previously spoken out about how tricky life on the go is for his girlfriend. He said: “You have to learn how to cope physically and mentally, but I can handle the pressure and the demands because I live seven days a week for my job.“That is very tough for my girlfriend. Of course, I would like to go out in the city with her and friends, but it just doesn’t fit in with playing in England.”In June 2021, Christian collapsed on the pitch after suffering a cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 game against Finland. Distraught Sabrina thought he had died and leapt over the barriers to run to his side. She was comforted by Leicester City’s Kaspar Schmeichel who made a beeline for her.Kaspar’s dad Peter said: “He said that Christian is breathing. She actually thought that he’d passed away, and just to confirm that (he was breathing) he went back to be absolutely sure that he wasn’t saying anything that was out of order.”Eva Garcia and Alejandro GarnachoEve is a Spanish influencerCredit: Instagram/evagarciaThe pair have a young son togetherCredit: GettyPopular influencer Eva, 20, has over 600,000 followers on Instagram and has been with Argentinian winger Alejandro Garnacho, 20, since 2021. The pair are both from Spain and share a young son, Enzo, and Eva is also a co-owner of a jewellery store. Rumours flew when Eva allegedly unfollowed her partner on Instagram last year after she gave birth, but the pair have recently been posting snaps of their happy family. TOTTENHAM HOTSPURSKennedy Alexa and James Maddison Kennedy is a supportive girlfriend of the star footballerCredit: instagram @kennedyalexaKennedy is a modelCredit: InstagramKennedy and James have been together for five yearsCredit: InstagramKennedy, 30, and Spurs midfielder James, 28, are parents to three young children and have been together for five years. The English-American model has a keen fan base with whom she regularly shares stunning outfit posts on social media. The pair went public with their relationship in 2020 but tend to keep it on the down-low. Kennedy gave birth to twins in 2023 and was later championed by mums online for showing off her stretch marks. Mackenzie Medlock and Lucas Bergvall Mackenzie Medlock and Lucas Bergvall on the model’s InstagramCredit: Instagram/mackenzie.medlockThe Swedish influencer is new to the public eyeCredit: Instagram/mackenzie.medlockSwedish social media influencer Mackenzie has over 20,000 followers on Instagram and loves sharing their luxe lifestyle on social media.The teen couple are fairly new to the public eye and Mackenzie had to turn off comments on her Instagram last year, after Barcelona fans got angry due to Lucas turning down the Catalan club.Lucas, 19, plays as a midfielder for Spurs. Karen Romero and Cristian Romero Cristian and Karen Romero with their sonCredit: Instagram @cutiromero2The pair met in 2018Karen, 25, is from Argentina and has worked as a human resources manager. Unlike other WAGs, her social media is private. She met Argentinian centre-back Cristian Romero, 27, in 2018 and they have two children, Lucy and Valentino. Cristian shared an adorable video in 2023 which showed him jokingly teaching his young son football, with fans going wild for the rare glimpse at their family life. Ioana Stan and Radu DragusinIoana and Radu have been dating since 2020Credit: Instagram/ioanastan_Ioana Stan sharing her fashion look onlineCredit: Instagram/ioanastan_Radu Dragusin of Tottenham HotspurCredit: GettyArchitecture student Ioana regularly shares romantic snaps online with her footballer boyfriend Radu Dragusin, 23. She too is from Romania and is the daughter of Gabriel Stan, the former deputy mayor of Constanta in the country. The pair have reportedly been dating since 2020, and Ioana has moved to England with Radu while he plays for the north London club.Indira Ampiot and Mathy Tel Fans have gone crazy for the French pair’s relationshipCredit: Instagram/indira.ampiotIndira is a beauty pageant queenCredit: GettyMathys Tel of Tottenham Hotspur in action in MayCredit: GettyFrench beauty queen Indira, 20, has been dating 19-year-old forward Mathys Tel, 20, since December 2024. Indira was crowned Miss France in 2023 and went on to compete in Miss Universe the following year. Read More on The SunShe also has a degree in communications and the blossoming love story has caught the attention of fans online. Mathys Tel is also from France and is on loan from Bundesliga club Bayern Munich. He plays for the French U21 national team.  More

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      in Soccer

      Fulham’s posh new £100m stand is like none I’ve ever seen with a swimming pool and cocktail bar

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      IT’S half-time and I’d normally be setting off to tackle a tortuous queue for a pint and a pie, as is the norm after 45 minutes of Prem action. But what’s this — waiters hovering with champagne and fine wine? Dainty pastries, plush seating and cocktail terraces? Toilets fit for ­royalty? This is like no football ground I’ve ever seen. Fulham FC’s new ­Riverside stand will make matchday something more like a mini-break in DubaiCredit: SuppliedThe south-western corner overlooks what will soon be an infinity pool and hotelCredit: SuppliedThe pitchside view of the Riverside Stand at Fulham’s Craven Cottage stadiumCredit: RexThis is Fulham FC’s new ­Riverside stand, six years in the making at a cost of well over £100million, and about as far removed from the British football experience as you can get — with prices to match. The Sun was invited to see the new Sky Deck ­hospitality area, three floors of five-star lounges, bars and restaurants in the West London club’s historic Craven Cottage stadium — the capital’s oldest football ground. The club’s US billionaire owner Shahid Khan has reinvented match day as something more like a mini-break in Dubai. With many smaller Premier League clubs struggling to bring in the cash to keep up with transfer fees and wage bills, money-spinning sidelines like this could offer ­salvation. READ MORE FULHAM NEWSUnder profit and sustainability rules, tycoons cannot just keep pumping money into their clubs to keep them afloat. But they can expand to ­create new revenue streams and grow the business — and get more value from stadiums, which often sit idle when there is no game on. Fulham are unashamedly chasing after cash from locals in this well-heeled part of London. The hospitality facilities operate as a members’ club on non-match days, with fees of £780 to £1,200 a year — footie not included. Most read in FootballBut to enjoy the Sky Deck experience when Fulham play Manchester City on Sunday, May 25, the fans — and spend-happy tourists — will fork out £718 for ONE GAME. Sky Deck day prices vary, but a ­season ticket costs £9,300. Premier League club’s incredible new stand boasts ultra VIP experience with rooftop bar and POOLAnd with many Fulham supporters already seething at sky-high prices (regular season tickets cost up to £3,000), one wonders what message such an opulent project sends to the loyal, less loaded club followers.  We are greeted with a glass of fizz and, as soon as we sit, smiling staff bring endless plates of beef carpaccio, scallops and venison. There is no denying that the development is breathtaking. Guests enter hospitality via a grand spiral staircase from the stylish Riverside ­concourse, where fans with regular tickets can enjoy food and drink. But upstairs lies a different world. Three hours before kick-off, our ­lanyard gives access to three vast floors with different ­theming, going from cruise ship to Orient Express carriage to high-end hotel. A grand piano will be installed shortly. We are greeted with a glass of fizz and, as soon as we sit, smiling staff bring endless plates of beef carpaccio, scallops and venison. Footie fans will be able to swap their pint for cocktails with a view over the ThamesCredit: SuppliedNo pies at half-time for Fulham fans, as smiling staff bring endless plates of beef carpaccio, scallops and venisonCredit: SuppliedNo balti pies or Bovril here, this is a bream and bottomless ­bubbly joint. On the top floor are two open-air terraces, where margaritas are lined up on the bars. The south-western corner overlooks what will soon be an infinity pool and hotel. ‘Weep into our beer’ Panoramic views take in landmarks such as Wembley Stadium, The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral and Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge ground. Craven Cottage opened as ­Fulham’s ground in 1896 — but the club’s new showpiece has little to remind you that you are in a ­football stadium at all. There is barely any reference to Fulham FC other than some subtle black and white details on the walls, a single tile in the unfinished pool and a club badge on a walkway from the directors’ lounge. This is a football stand for people who don’t necessarily like football. One of the pricier hospitality tiers gets you private dining for ten ­people, with a signed team shirt draped over each seat. But you won’t see pictures of ­Fulham legends like Jimmy Hill, Johnny Haynes or George Best. And fans in hospitality rarely glimpse the pitch, unless at their seats. The architecture focuses on the Thames — this is the stretch where Oxford and Cambridge battle it out in the Boat Race, an event that’s an extra cash bonanza for the club. This is a football stand for people who don’t necessarily like football. Of the 29,600 fans who can fit into Craven Cottage, 2,303 would now be using hospitality seats. Most clubs offer some level of luxury for sponsors, guests and VIPs. But for the posh rooms to seemingly hide the club’s football heritage feels like a new departure in the game. Fan forums are buzzing with debate. @Lighthouse, a fan since the 1960s, wrote on Friends Of Fulham: “Football has become a class thing now. The haves will always look down on the rest of us.” But many feel that Khan is merely doing what is necessary for the club to survive and thrive without moving from its old ground. @cookieg wrote: “If it brings in a few more quid for the club then good.” And @Logicalman chipped in: “We can all weep into our beer glasses for how it used to be. But it just means we are refusing to accept that life keeps moving on.” Read More on The SunAs we sit in the sunshine sipping cocktails, it’s easy to forget we’re there to watch a match — Fulham v Everton, with Fulham needing a win to keep their hopes of Europe alive. The Everton end is in full song throughout the game (which the Toffees win 3-1). In the Fulham hospitality seats, there’s not much noise other than the swishing of rowers passing behind us on the Thames. Craven Cottage in 1959, as Tosh Chamberlain thrills the fansCredit: GettyFulham ace WillianCredit: Rex More

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      in Motorsport

      Controversial supermodel-loving Flavio Briatore was given lifetime ban for Crashgate but has returned to top of F1

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      FLAVIO BRIATORE is back in charge of a Formula One team, 16 years after he was handed a “lifetime ban” from one of the motorsport’s most infamous scandals.The Italian has taken the reins as team principal at F1 outfit Alpine after Oliver Oakes resigned from his position just six races into the season.Flavio Briatore is back in F1 as a team principalCredit: RexHe is infamous for his part in Crashgate which saw Nelson Piquet Jr crash his car so Fernando Alonso could win the raceCredit: Formula OneThe controversial figure dated supermodel Naomi CampbellCredit: GettyHis first move since returning as Alpine boss was to axe Jack DoohanCredit: PAThat decision appears to have come due to Briatore pushing for Jack Doohan to be replaced by Franco Colapinto, a decision that was confirmed the morning after his appointment.Briatore was brought back into the F1 fold by Renault chief Luca de Meo after more than a decade on the sidelines following 2009’s Crashgate scandal.The incident, regarded as one of F1’s biggest controversies, had seen Renault order then driver Nelson Piquet Jr to crash his car at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix to help Fernando Alonso win the race – a decision which had huge ramifications for the maiden title won by Lewis Hamilton.Alonso was cleared of any wrongdoing in the aftermath, while Renault were charged by the motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, with Briatore being ousted from his then role as team principal and managing director.READ MORE IN F1Briatore was then slapped with a lifetime ban by the FIA for his part in the incident before he saw it overturned in 2010 following an ugly court battle, though he added at the time he did not think he would ever return to F1.But fast forward 12 years, he initially rejoined the sport as an ambassador in 2022 before being appointed as special advisor to Renault last year, and it seems he has ultimately been calling the shots since then.Fraud convictions and fugitive statusControversy has followed Briatore both in and out of F1.In the 1980s he was convicted on multiple counts of fraud and received two prison sentences in Italy.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBoth convictions were reduced on appeal and Briatore never actually went to jail as he lived as a fugitive on the Virgin Islands.He returned to Europe when his convictions were extinguished by amnesty, but had maintained close relations with one Luciano Benetton, who would eventually found an F1 team.Flavio Briatore’s £18m yacht bought for bargain £6.6m by Ex-F1 boss Bernie EcclestonePoaching Schumacher and Renault world championsBriatore poached Michael Schumacher from Eddie Jordan in 1991Credit: AlamySchumacher won two driver’s titles at Benetton with the team winning the 1995 Constructors’ ChampionshipCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe later unearthed Fernando Alonso, right, and won two more driver’s title with himCredit: AFPBriatore became the team manager of the Benetton F1 team, formerly Toleman, in 1990, after firing the previous team management in his role of commercial director.As team manager he then managed to poach Michael Schumacher from the grasp of the late Eddie Jordan after his first F1 race, before the German went on to win F1 titles in 1994 and 1995 while Benetton won the Constructors’ Championship in 1995.In 1994 the team was accused of using multiple forms of cheating, including unproven alleged use of illegal software and discarding a regulation fuel filter to speed up pit stops, only escaping punishment for the latter after pointing out multiple rivals had done the same.The team slipped into the midfield when a number of key technical staff and Schumacher moved to Ferrari in 1996 before Renault took over the Benetton team in 2000.There he found and nurtured a young Alonso and fired Jenson Button to hand the Spaniard a seat before he went on to win the Drivers Championship in 2005 and 2006 and end Schumacher’s dominance.Supermodel feverBriatore dated supermodel Heidi KlumCredit: GettyHe later married Elisabetta Gregoraci before they got divorced in 2018Credit: Getty Images – GettyThe glitz and glamour of the F1 lifestyle spilled over into Briatore’s personal life.In 1998 he got engaged to supermodel Naomi Campbell, but they never married with the pair being involved in an on and off relationship before they split in 2003.In March of that year he then started dating supermodel Heidi Klum, with Klum announcing her pregnancy in December before the pair split. Klum gave birth to daughter Leni, but said Briatore was not involved in her life before, in 2009, she was officially adopted by Klum’s partner, Seal, and had her name changed.Briatore briefly dated English actress and model Emma Heming Willis in 2004, with later flings coming with German catwalk pro Nadine Smith and actress Annemarie Warnkross – and it’s even been speculated he romanced Polish model Marzena Cieslik.He eventually married “Wonderbra” model and TV presenter Elisabetta Gregoraci in 2008, with the pair getting wed in Rome and Alonso driving the newlyweds to their lavish reception at the Castello di Torcrescenza.She gave birth to son Falco in 2010, but in 2018 the pair divorced, with Briatore being seen dating Benedetta Bosi – 49 years his junior – in 2019.However, last year it was reported in Italy that Briatore had rekindled his romance with Gregoraci.Crashgate falloutsBernie Ecclestone claimed he kept Crashgate under wraps to avoid scandalCredit: AFPFelipe Massa subsequently launched legal action into the 2008 World ChampionshipCredit: GettyNelson Piquet Jr claimed he had his F1 career threatened by Briatore over CrashgateCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CplSDxMAk1w/Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone claimed in 2023 that he and former FIA president Max Mosley had kept the “Crashgate” plot hidden initially to avoid scandal.Ecclestone said: “We decided not to do anything for now. We wanted to protect the sport and save it from a huge scandal. That’s why I used angelic tongues to persuade my former driver Nelson Piquet to keep calm for the time being.”Back then, there was a rule that a world championship classification after the FIA awards ceremony at the end of the year was untouchable.”So Hamilton was presented with the trophy and everything was fine. We had enough information in time to investigate the matter. According to the statutes, we should have cancelled the race in Singapore under these conditions.”That means it would never have happened for the championship standings. And then Felipe Massa would have become world champion and not Lewis Hamilton.”Those comments sparked a legal case from 2008 runner-up Felipe Massa, who believes he missed out on the title that season through no fault of his own, while Piquet Jr claimed he had his F1 career threatened by Briatore if he did not follow orders.Piquet Jr told On the Tracks Podcast: “The race came to Singapore and they put me psychologically up against the wall, I had no escape.”A lot of people still ask me, ‘Would you do it again?’ My answer is always, ‘No, obviously not.'”At that age and under so much pressure… “There was no one with me, except that grotesque Briatore, who was always bullying and was always complaining, pressuring me and warning me: ‘This is your last chance’.”THE new Formula One season is well underway – and one team appear to be running away with it.A massive summer of change saw Lewis Hamilton move on from Mercedes and join Ferrari, while the McLaren pair of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have a big chance to end Max Verstappen’s recent dominance.The Red Bull ace is aiming for a record-equalling FIFTH consecutive world title.INFORMATIONLATEST NEWSSEASON SO FARF1 returnBefore his return Briatore – a former ski instructor and co-owner of Queens Park Rangers – underwent heart surgery.But since returning to the F1 grid, Briatore has not exactly been subtle.The latest season of the popular Netflix series Drive to Survive features Briatore playing up to a role of villain as he told Aussie rookie Doohan “I control you every millimetre” in one scene.Alpine sit P9 in the Constructors Championship with just seven points from six races.Read More on The SunAnd his first move as the official team boss was to axe Doohan – who he is also manager of- for Colapinto.Now the controversial F1 manager is back in place. And fireworks are sure to follow. More

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      in Soccer

      How Wrexham was transformed from Spice-ridden hellhole to Welsh Hollywood as locals say ‘next stop’s the Premier League’

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      AMERICAN and Japanese tourists seek some Hollywood glamour when they make a pilgrimage to Rob Clarke’s second hand DVD shop.The owner of Mad4Movies happily pulls his cardboard cut-out of Deadpool actor and local club owner Ryan Reynolds for the football tourists as they soak up all things Wrexham AFC.Wrexham recently secured promotion to the ChampionshipCredit: GettyThe Welsh team’s success has thrown the town into a frenzyCredit: GettyRyan Reynolds watched them secure promotion along with his wife Blake LivelyCredit: GettyDad-of-two Rob, 47, has his own claim to fame as he starred in Disney+ documentary Welcome to Wrexham which charts the town’s incredible football fairytale.The club has just secured a third historic promotion after beating Charlton Athletic 3-0, taking them from non-league to the Championship and one step from the Premier League.In delirious scenes, the club’s owners Ryan, 48, and his fellow Hollywood actor Rob McElhenney hugged the players as the fans raced onto the pitch at their Racecourse Ground.Ryan was also joined by his Gossip Girl actress wife Blake Lively who also greeted fans in the stands.Read More FeaturesHer husband Ryan, 48, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia actor Rob McElhenney bought the club for £2 million nearly five years ago with the lofty ambition of getting to the Premier League.Now the Welsh club, which was formed in 1864 and is the third oldest in the world, has an army of fans around the world.Foreign tourists fly in to take in a game and take coach tours of the former mining town.It’s a welcome turnaround for an area once dubbed ‘Spice Town’, after images emerged of people under the influence of drugs at its bus station, in 2018.Most read in ChampionshipIt was also found to have the highest number of rough sleepers in North Wales, with 57, in 2020.But the “Ryan and Rob effect” has meant the town is teeming with visitors – boosting the local economy and creating jobs. Danny Devito celebrates Wrexham’s last-gasp win over Barnsley as he watches from virtual stadium in LATourism and hospitality revenue has increased by £120m in just three years and is now worth £180 million.Many tourists beat a path to Mad4Movies, which also sells books, music CDs and tapes, as well as Wrexham postcards for £1.Lifelong fan Rob said: “Ryan and Rob came to the shop when they first bought the club.”They wanted to meet fans who’d supported the club for a long time.”They were lovely. Ryan said he’s never seen so many DVDs and then he said: ‘There must be one you’ve never sold, that’s been here for years?'”I told him: ‘Well, we won’t talk about the Green Lantern’. This is one of his flops.”Fortunately he laughed. To be fair he signed my copy of the film.”It read: ‘Apologies in advance, Ryan.’ That got in the documentary.”Rob added: “I can’t believe how far the club has come – it’s amazing.”A while ago we nearly went out of existence and we were only saved by a fan whip round which raised £100,000.”Now we have fans come in for coach tours so all over the world.”Prem dreamsWalking down the main shopping street in the town, one ex-player said he is stunned by the club’s transformation.DVD shop owner Rob Clarke met Reynolds and McElhenney when they first bought the clubCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONTheir ownership of the club has been documented in the documentary Welcome to WrexhamCredit: GettyImages of Spice addicts in the bus station shocked the world in 2018Credit: Daily Post Wales/Gavin RoddaThe centre was dubbed ‘Spice Town’Credit: Daily Post WalesWinger Nick Hencher, 63, who played for the club in the 1985-86 season, said: “It’s great – it’s galvanised everybody.”It’s a massive season in the Championship as it’s a big step-up.”You never know, we might see four promotions in a row.”He added: “The club has changed a hell of a lot.”I enjoyed playing for them, it was a great experience for a local lad.”But it’s big time now and I’m still a small part of it, being chairman of the former players’ association.”So I just stay involved a little bit.”Match days, the town is buzzing with thousand of people here enjoying the limelight.”The last few years since Ryan and Rob took over, it’s just boomed in football and tourismJames VealOther fans cannot also believe the transformation of the club.Former builder Brian Roberts, 60, said: “Three promotions in a row – I never thought I’d see it.”It’s fantastic for the town.”Miners’ charity worker James Veal, 27, said: “There’s just this buzz around Wrexham,”The last few years since Ryan and Rob took over, it’s just boomed in football and tourism.”It just seems brighter, there’s more going on.”More people want to invest in the the town, there’s more shops, more restaurants, bars.”It’s fantastic to see the growth and what these two lads have brought to Wrexham.James Veal has noticed a huge boom in tourismCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONWrexham were just a non-league club when it was purchased by the Hollywood starsCredit: PAEleanor Swash has met tourists from all over the worldCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSION”Wrexham seemed to be on the up and just doing its own thing, but they have shone a spotlight and given it a good boost.”Shop worker Eleanor Swash, 18, works in a Wrexham AFC pop-up shop in the town.She said: “We got lots of tourists from all over – America, Canada, Germany and Japan.”It’s crazy really but it’s so good for the town.”A-list fansDad-of-four Ryan has recruited a host of his Hollywood friends to the Red Dragons causes including Danny DeVito and Will Ferrell.He even took Magic Mike star Channing Tatum to The Fat Boar pub on a Friday night in December and bought everyone a drink.Manager Sean Cooney, 35, said: “We got a phone call from their team who said they’d be here in half an hour.The Ryan and Rob effect seems to be getting bigger all the timeSean Cooney”They turned up and were lovely.”We had a singer performing and they got on the mic to say drinks were on them.”We then put them upstairs in a room.”He added: “This place has become closely associated with the team.”We get lots of tourists especially Canadian and Americans.”In fact we are getting more and more Americans.”The Ryan and Rob effect seems to be getting bigger all the time.”I mean it must be them as you don’t normally get many Americans coming to Wrexham on holiday.”Now fans are dreaming of a fourth promotion in a rowCredit: Instagram/Ryan ReynoldsBlake and Ryan love supporting the gamesCredit: InstagramFans piled round the stars to snap a picCredit: APRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club for a mere £2millionCredit: GettyThe club itself is in a healthy financial position thanks to Rob and Ryan’s backing and shrewd deals.Club accounts going up to June 2024 covering their season in League Two show revenues of £26.7million – which is a figure greater than seven of the Championship clubs.The Red Dragons have now even been linked to some stellar Premier League players including Man Utd’s Jonny Evans and Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy.And the latest series of the Welcome to Wrexham doc is to be screened on May 16.Councillor Nigel Williams, Wrexham Council’s lead member for economy, business and tourism, said: “The impact of Ryan and Rob as well as the documentary has been phenomenal.Read More on The Sun”We used to go to trade fairs and people would see we were from Wrexham and just walk past.”Now they are beating down our door.”Ryan took Channing Tatum for a night out at The Fat BoarCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONBusiness is booming in the centre of the townCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONHow Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice. 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      VIP ‘black cards’, ‘rude’ celebs & OnlyFans models swarming the paddocks…how the Miami GP became the Coachella of F1

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      AMERICANS like to go BIG – and the Miami GP, being held this weekend, is no exception.Since first hitting the calendars in 2022, it’s become an extravagant affair packed full of big-name celebs and influencers, with even the race itself becoming overshadowed by the glitz.Like Coachella, the Miami GP has become a celeb and influencer hotspotCredit: GettyA-listers like Kendell Jenner have been spotted swanning around the paddockCredit: APSand is imported to create an exclusive “beach club” areaCredit: APIt’s now one of the F1 season’s biggest showpieces, a crucial part of their strategy to boost its popularity in the States. Last year saw celebs like Kendell Jenner and LeBron James pay the race a visit, and even Donald Trump showed up in a surreal appearance that caused security a headache.And just like the music festival Coachella, it’s now full of internet-famous influencers who – many suspect – haven’t got a clue about F1 itself but spend their time snapping selfies and posing with drivers A record-breaking 275,000 fans turned up to watch McLaren’s Lando Norris clinch his first ever victory, and organisers are hoping this weekend’s race will be even bigger.Read More FeaturesThe Florida event has courted chaos ever since the inaugural race was held three years ago and it was decided to build the circuit at the city’s Hard Rock Stadium, home to local NFL team the Miami Dolphins.It nearly didn’t happen at all, after a handful of nearby residents filed a lawsuit over noise pollution complaints – though this was thrown out by a judge.A makeshift circuit was cobbled together – but it proved a dud, having to be resurfaced twice ahead of the race and seriously lacking grip. Many of the drivers lambasted it, with Sergio Perez labelling it “a joke” and Lando Norris accusing the designers of just “winging it”. Most read in MotorsportBut it would turn out that the track would be the least of the driver’s worries.Come 2023, the spectacle was even more intense, much to their dismay.Fernando Alonso goes public with stunning new girlfriend Andrea Schlager after whisking her to US for Miami GP Prior to the race, each driver was required to present themselves in a full-on WWE-style showcase, led out one-by-one past an honour guard of cheerleaders, announced by the rapper LL Cool J.Meanwhile, in the background, Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am conducted a black-tie-clad 30-piece orchestra. Little wonder then the drivers found the showbizzy spectacle “distracting”. “I don’t think there’s any other sport in the world that 30 minutes before you go out to do your business that you’re out there in the sun, all the cameras on you and making a bit of a show of it,” said George Russell.“None of the drivers like it,” added Lando Norris.“We do so much publicity for the fans [but] as drivers we all just want to sit down and focus on what we need to focus on.”Influencer heavenToo bad for them, then, that the Miami GP has only gone from strength to strength and is a must-attend event for everyone from A-list actors to Z-list influencers. The 2024 Miami GP was won by Lando NorrisCredit: GettyModels and influencers shell out for pricey tickets to access to exclusive areasCredit: GettySecurity requirements made Trump’s visit quite the headache for organisersCredit: GettyEven political big hitters have gotten involved – including last year when none other than Donald Trump himself turned up.Ten days before his visit the secret service spent hours scrutinising and surveying the venue for threats. Everything was given the all clear – but then just hours before the race his security team ordered major shutdowns in areas of the paddock.“The Secret Service blocked off the walkway in the middle of the paddock for 20 minutes, and the teams were losing it because they were like, ‘I have to cross,’” recalled Tyler Epp, President of the Miami GP.His bright orange tan lined up with the McLaren team’s colours, at least, and he even told Norris that he was the British star’s “lucky charm”.And given how much Miami has become a hotspot for OnlyFans stars, with the sunny Florida weather always providing a great excuse to strip down to the bare essentials, it’s no wonder the GP event has become a hit with online models.There have been some celebrities that no one even knows were hereTyler EppWhile Trump was swanning around one part of the paddock giving his congratulations to Norris for his win, OnlyFans actress Veronica Rajek took the chance to pay the McLaren team a visit.Motoring media even fell for a hoax back in August that claimed OnlyFans was set to become the new title sponsor of the Alpine F1 team.The sensationalised spectacle that the race day has turned into has left plenty of die-hard fans wondering if all these famous faces have any clue about the sport itself.After all, despite being the voice of racing, not many of them seem to know the legendary Martin Brundle.’Rude’ celebsBack in 2022, the Sky Sports commentator was prowling a very crowded grid when he came up to tennis ace Venus Williams.But she was too busy saying hi to all the other famous faces and barely registered what he was saying, in an awkward but hilarious encounter.“What’s the question?” she laughed before whisking herself off somewhere else. OnlyFans star Veronika Rajek posed for pictures with the McLaren teamCredit: AFPEd Sheeran performed over the weekend at last year’s GPCredit: GettyKendall Jenner and Lewis Hamilton even found time to hobnob with each otherCredit: GettyVenus and Serena Williams on the grid at the Miami raceCredit: GettyFast forward to 2024, and a huge list of celebs popped in to catch the racing – including Shakira, Rory McIlroy, Kendall Jenner, and tycoons Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. And with neighbours Inter Miami going from strength to strength, boss David Beckham also made an appearance, as did Zinedine Zidane.Even Taylor Swift turned up in the city, alongside her boyfriend NFL superstar Travis Kelce – proof enough that the Hard Rock stadium will be the place to be seen this Sunday – though Taylor skipped the race itself.Perhaps her presence would have been too awkward for driver Fernando Alonso, because at one point rumours were swirling that the pair briefly dated. Fortunately for the VIPs – and maybe to make up for Martin Brundle always trying to nab them for a chat – the GP’s organisers are careful to keep the general public far away from them.Some celebs are even rumoured to attend in secret.We’re trying to create an environment to make special memories that will last a lifetimeTyler EppBeyonce and Jay-Z reportedly rocked up in 2022, while Michelle Obama attended as a guest of Lewis Hamilton.“She showed up right on time, got to experience a session, and was in and out very, very quietly,” explained Tyler Epp.“There have been some celebrities that no one even knows were here.”Also on offer is a “Black Card” experience. It allows the rich and famous to drive on a special, entirely separate lane off the highway, taking them straight into a luxury car parking zone.“You don’t have any interaction with the general population from the time you leave your hotel to the time you get to your seat. It’s all very protected and private,” added Tyler in an interview with Motorsport mag.Fake beach clubsMaybe this attention to detail will let Miami become the new Monaco. The inner part of the circuit gets turned into the Hard Rock Beach ClubCredit: APFans were left bemused by the fake waterCredit: APSky’s Craig Slater takes a ‘swim’ in the fake marinaCredit: ReutersBut then again maybe not – given the much-mocked attempt to copy the Mediterranean city with a fake marina was created by painting the ground blue, which even Sky’s Craig Slater attempted to have a “dip” in.They even stuck ten massive yachts inside it and imported heaps of fake sand to create a “VIP Beach Club”.It was slammed as tacky – but to access this luxurious lake of concrete in the middle of the circuit, guests had to shell out at least $1,000.And it was $2,000 on top of that if you wanted a deck chair. When it was first revealed in 2022, bemused fans compared the set up to the notorious Fyre Festival.At least they had two pools to relax in and a performances from big hitters The Chainsmokers to enjoy as well.Forget Coachella itself – because now, the entire GP weekend has turned into something of a music festival in its own right.In 2024, both DJ Steve Aoki and Ed Sheeran delivered performances to revellers at the Hard Rock Beach Club.And the entertainment on offer during race week is now spilling outside of the stadium itself, with the whole of Miami gripped by GP fever.Venues across the city are getting into the F1 spirit, including art exhibitions dedicated to exploring racing culture, and exclusive racing-themed pop-up bars in luxury hotels sponsored by F1’s partner, the champagne company Moët & Chandon.Just be ready to shell out $550 – and that’s for the most basic package on offer. This year, the Hard Rock beach club will once again be delivering a star-studded line up with performances by Pitbull, Kygo and DJ Tiësto.But given the Miami GP competes with two others F1 races in the states – in Austin and Las Vegas – organisers aren’t ashamed to say they go out of their way to make the Florida race weekend stand out.Read More on The Sun“We’re in the memory making business at the end of the day, and we’re trying to create an environment to make special memories that will last a lifetime,” added Tyler Epp.“That’s our goal.”More than 275,000 fans are expected to attend this weekendCredit: Getty More

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      Chris Eubank Jr’s torment over painful 6-year rift with idol dad… and how legend’s ‘crazy’ demands ‘cost his son £3m’

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      AS Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr face up in the ring tomorrow at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, not even the screaming crowds and bright lights will be able to hide a very conspicuous absence.While Benn will have his dad Nigel backing him up in his corner, Chris Eubank Sr will be nowhere to be seen – despite this fight opening another chapter in a more than three-decade-old Eubank-Benn rivalry.Chris Eubank Jr and his father have been caught up in an ever-deepening rift since 2019Credit: Getty Images – GettyThe legendary boxer has called Saturday’s fight, between his son and Conor Benn, a “disgrace”Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdTheir relationship has been damaged by the passing of Chris Eubank Jr’s brother, Sebastian, in 2021Credit: Instagram @chriseubankjrChris Eubank Sr has branded the fight a “disgrace” and accused his son of “making a mockery” of the family legacy – even calling for his boxing licence to be revoked after the younger Eubank cracked an egg over Benn’s face in a February press conference.But while the build-up to Saturday’s fight has exacerbated the rift, the fallout is nothing new – dating back to 2019.In recent years their fractured relationship has been overshadowed by the tragic death of two members of the family, while promoter Eddie Hearn even claimed Eubank Sr cost his son millions.Ahead of the showdown, 35-year-old Eubank Jr has faced an uphill battle to shed enough weight, with Benn poking fun at the “pain” his rival had been experiencing at a press conference on Thursday.Read More Boxing“What is pain, though?” Eubank Jr hit back.“I have a 31-year old brother who is buried in the desert in Dubai, that is pain. I have a son, three years old, he asks why can’t I see my daddy? Why can’t he take me to school? That is pain.“My own father, a man I idolised for my entire life, and he doesn’t speak to me. We haven’t spoken in years and he thinks I’m a disgrace. “These things are what pain is to me.” Most read in BoxingFor years, Chris Eubank Jr. could count on his dad’s support as he rose up to establish himself as a fighter in his own right. The father and son pair would often be sat side by side at press conferences, with Eubank Sr. helping to coach and manage his son’s career, and providing Eubank Jr. with critical feedback in between rounds.Driven by Rejection, Defined by Greatness | Behind the Gloves: Chris Eubank SnBut this close relationship would eventually come to an end, with a professional – and personal – break-up that left the younger Eubank heartbroken.“We don’t talk, he has shown no interest in my career for a long period of time now. He’s shown no interest in me in a long period of time,” he said in October.“As somebody who’s lost a son, I think that’s a pretty insane thing [for my dad] to be doing, an insane way to be acting – to kind of not be speaking to your remaining kids.”Fighting demonsEubank Jr added that he still wishes his father will have a change of heart and be there the night of the fight.“I would love for him to be involved. The fact that I even have to say that is insane. How is that even a thing?” he says.“His son is gonna fight the son of his arch-nemesis, [from] all those years ago when he was a world champion. How is it a thing that he may not be there?”The build-up to Eubank Jr vs Benn has reheated the rivalry between the boxing familiesCredit: GettyChris Eubank Jr’s dad was constantly by his side as he established himself as a boxerCredit: GettyEubank Jr says their rift began when he chose to forge his own careerCredit: GettyDoubling down on these feelings in March, he told Piers Morgan: “I still hope he’s there on the night, just like [Benn’s] old man will be. I honestly don’t know. I hope and I pray that he is, and I will do things to try and get him there.“He needs to be able to get over whatever demons he’s fighting. Now, this fight is either gonna enable him to get over those demons or unfortunately it’s gonna make those demons grow. I don’t know.”Conor’s father Nigel also urged Eubank Sr to attend, telling the BBC: “I don’t want him having a disagreement with his son.”We all want you there, so we can see each other after the fight and hug each other and say it is all over – so be there my friend.”Eubank Sr. hasn’t been seen in his son’s corner since 2019, and given their recent comments, it doesn’t seem like their relationship will be healing any time soon.By this time, Eubank Jr felt ready to start taking more control over his career – rather than simply becoming another version of his dad. But his father did not take this move well.“My old man was always next to me, and it got to a stage where I decided that I needed to walk my own path. He was not happy with that decision. That’s the start of it,” Eubank Jr told Morgan.I think it’s going to take me being out of boxing for him to come back into my lifeEubank Jr“I had to step out of that cycle because I felt it wasn’t working, and as my own man, I had learned enough and had done enough in the game to do my own thing, to walk my own path and not follow someone else,” he told the Mirror.Tragically, Eubank Jr added that he’d have to ditch his love of boxing to rebuild any relationship with the man who had given him so much.“At this moment in time, he’s having trouble separating the business and the boxing and the coaching from being just my dad.“I think it’s going to take me being out of boxing for him to come back into my life. I hope that’s not the case, but that’s how I see it.”I’m very appreciative of everything he did and everything he taught me throughout my life and my career, but I want to be my own man, and that’s what I’m doing now.”Family painHowever, their gap only widened after a pair of tragic deaths within the family. Much of Eubank Sr’s fury has been directed at the fact that his son is having to shed so much weight, fearing that boiling down to the 160lb needed will risk needless damage – akin to what left Eubank Sr’s own brother paying the ultimate price.Eubank Sr still mourns the death of his brother Simon, who faced a debilitating battle with dementia caused by boxing injuriesCredit: Instagram @harlemeubankThe older Eubank and his nephew Harlem lost Simon in 2023Credit: Louis WoodEubank Jr has had to drastically cut down his weight in order to make the cut for SaturdayCredit: https://www.instagram.com/chriseubankjr/“I don’t want my son getting down to 160lb. And that is why I have spoken about people trying to murder my boy by boiling him down to 157lb,” Eubank Sr told The Sun while choking back tears.“Trying to boil my son down to 157lb a few years ago, would have killed him. You might think the word ‘killed’ is a bit strong but my brother is dead from boxing. He lost his life from boxing, with frontal lobe dementia. “In the end, Harlem was feeding him with a baby bottle, he had to feed his own father. I didn’t have the strength to go and see my brother in the last six months of his life because he was locked in spasm all of the time he was awake,” he added.“That is boxing and 20 losses at the hands of the promoters. It’s a business and a racket and when you keep bringing the same guy in to lose, he ends up being killed.“He was my brother. It is real for us.”Chris Eubank Jr hasn’t made one decision, he doesn’t breathe without his dad’s say soEddie HearnEubank Sr’s brother, Simon, passed away aged 61 in September 2023 after a harrowing battle with dementia, believed to have been brought on by injuries sustained in the ring.In response, Eubank Jr’s promoter Ben Shalon agreed that trying to reach 157lb was “crazy”.“It was irresponsible for everyone involved that we asked Chris Eubank Jr to get 157. [It was] absolutely crazy that that was ever agreed to but we’re here now. He’ll make the weight and he’ll be ready to go,” he added, in reference to Saturday’s fight.Tragically, Eubank Jr also lost his brother, Sebastian, after the 29-year old passed away from a heart attack in Dubai in 2021.“That affected [my dad] in a deep way – it affected all of us,” he told Piers Morgan.“Mental health is a real thing. “That incident, coupled with the fact that we were already not seeing eye to eye, destroyed a large part of the relationship.”‘Crazy’ demandsBut the cost of the animosity has been financial as well as emotion, according to promoter Eddie Hearn, which may have driven the younger Eubank’s decision to step out of his dad’s shadow.In 2016, Eubank Jr was being lined up for a £3million bout against WBC, IBF, and WBA belt-holder Gennady Golovkin. Promoter Eddie Hearn blames Eubank Sr’s “crazy” demands for Eubank Jr missing out on a £3million bout in 2016Credit: GettyEubank Sr and his lawyers never ended up signing the contract for the fight against Gennady GolovkinCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      The insanely lavish worlds of F1 tycoons…from Red Bull boss’s private island to £30million Bond villain-style mansion

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      AS things heat up ahead of this Sunday’s Bahrain GP, the Gulf State will soon be crowded with the jets and supercars of the rich and famous.It’s fair to say there’s a lot of money in the world of F1 – and drivers and team staff alike certainly get paid handsomely.The late Eddie Jordan certainly knew how to enjoy his £85million fortuneCredit: AlamyEddie was among the most flamboyant of the F1 tycoonsCredit: GETTYRed Bull owner Mark Mateschitz inherited an entire tropical island from his fatherCredit: jason busch/LHW.comBut at the very top of the motor sport pyramid are the people who don’t just run the teams, but own them. And when you combine a net worth of millions – or in many cases billions – with a love of fast cars, you can be sure you’re dealing with a flashy spender.After all, if you can afford an F1 team, you might as well own a yacht on the side – or a Pacific island getaway when you need a break.It’s a sport that attracts some pretty big characters, just like the late Eddie Jordan, who went from flogging salmon on the streets to amassing a fortune of £85million.Read More FeaturesBut his riches are small fry to what others in the business are worth – such as Mercedes’s Toto Wolff, worth a whopping $1.6billion.And even Toto’s wealth is dwarfed by Red Bull owner Mark Mateschitz, who has a net worth of over £30billion. So what have they been spending it all on?Join us as we dive into the lavish lives of the biggest F1 tycoons.Most read in MotorsportBrave Eddie Jordan’s final public appearance just weeks before his deathToto WolffAfter trying his hand as a racing driver before moving into the boardroom, Toto Wolff bought a 30 per cent stake in Mercedes in 2013 for an estimated $50million.And as Mercedes moved up the rankings, so did his wealth increase – making the Austrian worth around a whopping $1.6billion today, according to Forbes. It’s no wonder Toto Wolff takes such an active role in ensuring his teams success – because he owns a third of itCredit: GettyThe Mercedes part-owner enjoys diving off his 49 metre-long superyacht off the coast of MonacoCredit: Instagram/totowolff_originalA video Toto posted to his Instagram shows he isn’t afraid to take his cars – in this case the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL from 1954 – for a spinCredit: Instagram/totowolff_originalOnce living near the team’s base in the UK, Wolff and his family have now moved to Monaco, close to where many of the drivers live.He’s also reported to own an 18,000 square foot mansion in Switzerland, which was reportedly bought for $62million.Unsurprisingly, the 53-year old owns a stunning car collection which features plenty of rare Mercedes. Wolff has frequently been spotted driving round Monaco in his Mercedez-Benz SL from 1954, worth around £1million, as well as the more modern Mercedec-AMG GT R, which sells for around £150,000-190,000.But brand loyalty hasn’t stopped him from also reportedly owning a Bugatti Veyron, a Ferrari LaFerrari, and also an iconic Ferrari F40  which he allegedly sold for some £1.2million. And when road travel doesn’t cut it, he can be spotted relaxing on the 49-metre-long superyacht UU, which he is thought to own – though he is thinking of designing one himself. Eddie JordanThe late Eddie Jordan owned properties around the globeCredit: AlamyEddie Jordan bought the spectacular yacht Blush for £32millionCredit: BLUEI PRODUCTIONSFrom trading on the streets of Dublin to securing iconic sponsorship deals – once convincing delivery firm DHL to repaint all their vans with his famous “Jordan yellow” – the late Eddie Jordan certainly reaped the rewards of his hard graft.Among his lavish assets was Sunseeker’s biggest ever yacht, which he bought for a cool £32million back in 2014, named Blush.Also under his ownership was a stunning 45-metre sailing yacht that let him enjoy times spent near the coast.Over the years, he amassed a massive – and very valuable – collection of F1 memorabilia, including the very car Michael Schumacher made his debut in.And like other team owners, he had multiple properties around the world including a palatial manor in Surrey, a house in Ireland, and a pad in Monaco.He also owned a £750,000 flat in Tooting, London, which he raffled off in 2017 to the lucky winner of the £10-to-enter competition. Lawrence StrollHaving made a fortune in the luxury fashion industry selling shares in brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Michael Kors, the Canadian businessman is thought to be worth over £2billion.The 65-year-old tycoon is also part-owner of the Aston Martin racing team – and is the dad of their star driver, 26-year-old Lance. Lawrence Stroll, owner of the Aston Martin team, made his fortune selling shares in luxury fashion brandsCredit: The TimesThe Canadian billionaire hosted his 60th birthday party on board his massive yacht Faith, which was attended by the likes of Sarah Ferguson and Catherine Zeta-JonesCredit: PAHe is the proud owner of the Ferrari 250 GTO, which is thought to be worth over £50millionCredit: RexThough based in Geneva, Stroll also owns homes in London, Quebec, and also a £70million pad on the Caribbean island on Mustique where he wed Brazilian stunner Raquel Diniz, 35.When it’s race weekend in Monaco, you can find him on board Faith – a 96-meter superyacht which Toto Wolff has said is the nicest boat he’s ever been on, worth around £200million.Featuring a glass-bottomed swimming pool, beach club, and wet bar, it hosted stars such as Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas for Stroll’s Great Gatsby-themed 60th birthday bash.Recent reports, however, suggest he’s sold the vessel on – downsizing to a 78-metre-long yacht instead.But it’s cars he really loves, amassing a collection reportedly worth over £140million.This includes a Ferrari 250 GTO, one of the most valuable cars in the world with a price tag north of £50million. Also in his garage are multiple LaFerraris, a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB he snapped up for a cool £20million, as well as McLarens and a Ford GT. Ron DennisSir Ron Dennis made a handsome penny from selling his McLaren sharesCredit: GettyWork started last week on his new £30million Berkshire mansionThe enormous property includes underground Roman-style baths, and a private tunnel to the River ThamesAlthough his split from McLaren was far from amicable, Sir Ron still walked away with £275million after selling his shares back in 2017.And what better way to enjoy retirement than to build yourself a £30million ‘Bond villain’ mega-mansion that’s set to be one of the most lavish homes in the country.Work began last week on the 77-year-old’s new Berkshire home for the, which will feature a Roman baths-style underground swimming pool and even a secret tunnel to the Thames to access his boat.There’s also extensive staff quarters, a room just for glassware and crockery, and a hair salon for when you don’t have time to nip down the massive drive to the local barbers. I am a pretty wealthy guy. So why wouldn’t I have some exotic cars?Sir Ron DennisIt goes without saying that the tycoon – who started life as a mechanic – is a massive car nut, once owning four go-karts built by McLaren for his own personal use.And planned for the new mansion is an underground garage complete with turntable to house his fleet of vehicles, including a McLaren worth £5million.“I love my McLarens,” he once told MailOnline.“I am a pretty wealthy guy. So why wouldn’t I have some exotic cars?”, he added.Aerial pictures taken of the plot near Henley-on-Thames last week show that diggers have moved in to start excavating the site. Mark MateschitzMark Mateschitz is one of the world’s youngest multi-billionairesCredit: GettyThanks to the Red Bull fortune, Mateschitz owns a private island in the South PacificCredit: http://www.laucala.comThe Austrian had enough spare cash to snap up Bernie Ecclestone’s extraordinary collection of motorsCredit: Tom Hartley Jnr/PA WireIt’s hard to avoid being rich when you’re Mark Mateschitz – son of Dietrich, co-founder of the Red Bull beverage and sporting empire who passed away three years ago.Dubbed Europe’s richest millennial, Forbes estimates the 32-year-old’s net worth to be north of £30.8billion, making him the 31st richest person on the planet.And Mateschitz has proved keen to carry on his father’s connection to F1, as evidenced by an enormous purchase he made just this month.The young billionaire is the new owner of Bernie Ecclestone’s private car collection – featuring 69 Grand Prix cars estimated to be together worth £500million.The Red Bull owner is thought to own multiple castles and villas across his native Austria, and his rumoured to have a £43.5million pad in swanky Knightsbridge.Also inherited from his dad is the island of Laucala, Fiji, a billionaire’s playground with a luxurious private resort – which even has its own airline to ferry visitors to and from the tropical paradise. And as if the Red Bull billions weren’t enough already, Mateschitz is currently dating heiress to the Swarovski crystal fortune, Victoria. Together, they’re working on a brand new getaway – a multi-million pound villa Marbella, close to where Victoria’s mother lives. Bernie EcclestoneBernie Ecclestone celebrating his 90th birthday with wife Fabiana FlosiCredit: Instagram @fabianaecclestoneEcclestone named his £30million superyacht after his daughter, PetraCredit: RexBernie Ecclestone’s daughter, Petra, is thought to be the owner of this giant 57,000 square ft. Beverly Hills home which was reportedly bought for $150millionCredit: Splash NewsHe enjoys lavish holidays with wife FabianaCredit: fabianaecclestone/InstagramThe F1 supremo himself has amassed billions of the decades, and the 94-year-old certainly knows how to spend it.As we revealed, he was once the owner of a car collection worth around £500millionAmong his property empire was a London home overlooking Kensington Palace, which sold for £57million, and he bought his daughter Tamara a £70million London mansion complete with gold bathtub and 50 staff. He’s now living in Switzerland in a £23million chalet called Le Lion, located in the resort town of Gstaad, along with his wife Fabiana Flosi.Ecclestone – who has an estimated net worth of £1.85billion – also owns not one, but two massive yachts.Read More on The SunThe £30million Petara, named after his daughter, can accommodate up to 12 guests and boasts a spacious interior.Then in 2022, he snapped up the 63 metre-long Force Blue for the bargain price of £6.6million, which features a spa, cinema, and nightclub onboard. 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      in Boxing

      My fiancé’s OnlyFans nude pics had huge impact on relationship, reveals Olympic boxer Nicola Adams after love split

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      BOXING champion and Strictly star Nicola Adams has opened up about her heartbreaking split from girlfriend Ella Baig.In an exclusive interview with The Sun on Sunday, the Olympic fighter has revealed that she struggled with ex-fianceé Ella’s work as an OnlyFans model during their seven-year relationship.Boxing champ Nicola Adams has split from her fiancee Ella BaigCredit: SplashNicola admits that Ella’s OnlyFans had a big impact on their relationshipCredit: ella.baig/InstagramElla posts nude snaps on the ­platform and engages in explicit chat with fans.Nicola said: “I have always been incredibly supportive of Ella’s career and the choices she has made, including her work on OnlyFans.“She is an amazing woman, and I admire her confidence and ­independence.“However, as much as I respect what she does, I can’t deny that it has had an impact on our relationship.”READ MORE ON NICOLA ADAMSThe couple have a two-year-old son, Taylor Nate, born via IVF using one of Nicola’s eggs.The 42-year-old former flyweight, who is the first British woman to win an Olympic boxing gold medal, said: “I’ve always considered myself to be mentally strong, but I’ve found this situation challenging at times and have had to reflect on how ­sustainable it is — especially as we raise our son together.“Parenthood changes your perspective on so many things, and I’ve had to be really honest with myself about my emotions and what’s best for our family.‘Both been to therapy’“Ella and I have shared so much love and happiness and, no matter what happens, my respect and admiration will never change.Most read in Boxing“Right now, we’re navigating this as openly and honestly as possible, with the priority being our little boy.”Speaking from her home in Dubai, Nicola revealed that the couple tried several months of therapy before calling it quits.Olympic boxing champ Nicola Adams on becoming a mum through IVFShe said: “The decision to split has been a gradual process.“We first discussed the notion of breaking up five months ago and came to the decision over a period of time.“We’ve both been to therapy, ­separately and together, to try to help heal our trauma, and we decided that it would be easier for us to split.“We need to be apart — it’s a lot easier to fix yourself.“It’s been hard because Ella has been my best friend for so long, so not having her there has been a big change for me and I’m still getting used to it. We’ve tried to keep it amicable and do things as a family for Taylor.”Nicola has been open in the past about her difficult childhood, ­growing up in poverty and pain in Leeds, throwing herself into boxing as protection from her violent father, named Innocent.A 2021 Prime Video documentary — named Lioness after her old nickname in the ring — also highlighted a rift with her mother and long-time supporter, Dee, who she is estranged from.Nicola believes she is still coming to terms with what she went through as a child.She said: “I have a lot of childhood trauma. I don’t want to pass any of it on to Taylor.“I do a lot of meditation and see a therapist to help me combat it. I can also see trauma in other people too.”Nicola is determined to give her son the best childhood possible. She said: “Our early years experiences are worlds apart.“I grew up on a council estate in Leeds in a single-parent household, I didn’t have anything to do.Ella posts nude snaps on the ­platform and engages in explicit chat with fansCredit: instagram/ella.baigNicola on her way to beating Sarah Ourahmoune to retain Olympic flyweight title in Rio in 2016Credit: Getty“There were people in my neighbourhood drug dealing and stealing cars — it was very different to how he is living now.“Even as a two-year-old he has a full social life, going swimming, having golf lessons and listening to music.“Thanks to the career I have had, I don’t have to work as hard as my parents did. I never got to see them, whereas I can spend so much time with Taylor.“Taylor is super-happy and ­confident. He is really independent and I love the person he is evolving into. He is a bundle of joy.”In 2020, Nicola made TV history when she became the first same-sex pairing on Strictly Come Dancing with Russian pro dancer Katya Jones.Unfortunately the pair had to pull out of the competition when Katya caught Covid, but Nicola thinks they could have won the Glitterball trophy.I do a lot of meditation and see a therapist to help me combat it [trauma]. I can also see trauma in other people too.Nicola AdamsShe said: “It was such a cool ­experience.“Learning how to open up and perform was awesome.“People still recognise me from the show and they have no idea about my sporting history.“I still talk to Katya. She really got the best out of me, and I liked the fact she had just as much energy as I did, so we were able to really get the dance moves right. It was a good partnership.“I definitely think we would have made the finals. I’m confident we’d have won. It was just unlucky that she got Covid.”Nicola admits that Ella struggled with the show as they were isolated during the height of the pandemic.The former couple have a two-year-old son, Taylor Nate, born via IVF using one of Nicola’s eggsCredit: Nicola Adams/InstagramNicola said: “It was lonely for Ella. We filmed during lockdown so we had to be in a bubble.“Ella wasn’t able to go see friends, so when I’d be out training from like 9am to 9pm, I think it was quite tough for Ella being alone for that amount of time.“Then the only people she’d get to see when we came back was either me or Katya.“I think it would have been a nicer experience if we’d have done Strictly now, where you can talk to everyone.“We couldn’t even interact with the other dancers or contestants — it wasn’t as social as the show normally is.”But she did not fall victim to the Strictly curse and enjoyed later ­teaching Ella the dance moves.Nicola said: “In some ways there are some good points as I was able to teach her all the dances.”Read More on The SunWhile Nicola is not currently ­dating, she is looking forward to new work projects this year, including ­acting in a movie and launching a podcast with the BBC.She said: “I don’t want a rebound relationship, I just want to focus on my work and being a good mum.” More