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      in Motorsport

      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 Soccer

      Harry Redknapp: Eddie Howe has a huge summer ahead – Newcastle are THREE good signings away from challenging for title

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      NEWCASTLE fans waited so long for a proper knees-up that it was always going to be one to remember.They may have forgotten what it was like to win a trophy but not how to throw a party — as we all got to see two weeks ago.Harry Redknapp says Newcastle can now target more silverware after winning the Carabao CupCredit: GettyWhich is just as well, because their gaffer Eddie Howe is building something so special I think those supporters will have a lot to celebrate from here.Far bigger things than the Carabao Cup, with all due respect, because in my book that is just the start.They certainly won’t be waiting 70 years for the next domestic trophy!I am not saying the next stop is the Premier League title as they are three good signings short of pushing the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal over a season — but they are moving closer.READ MORE IN football Eddie, who was in hospital yesterday after feeling ill during the week, will miss their clash against Manchester United today and I wish him a speedy recovery.And so will all the Toon fans — which certainly shows up all those who reckoned Eddie was only keeping the seat warm for a glamorous foreign name after the Saudis appointed him.Whether that was the plan when they arrived I don’t know but — four years on — the only way I can see Howe leaving St James’ Park is for the England job.The search for Thomas Tuchel’s replacement, when that day comes, won’t take long, although I am not saying Newcastle fans should start worrying yet. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat’s for the future.For now, all that matters is making sure this is the real thing, not just another false start.Harry Redknapp rings me on the M40 after every game whether we win or lose – he’s the best uncle everAfter the Saudis took over there was a lot of talk the richest club in the world would take off, and when they made the Champions League two years ago, it certainly looked that way.But despite that famous win over Paris Saint-Germain, they never really got off the launch pad and when they went from finishing fourth in the Prem to seventh, quite a few feared the worst for Eddie.Thankfully the people who matter never doubted he was the right man and now you won’t find anyone who disagrees.Actually there was one… the radio pundit I heard who said Howe wasn’t the answer if they wanted to push on after the League Cup. What a load of cobblers!I think those supporters will have a lot to celebrate from here. Far bigger things than the Carabao Cup, with all due respect, because in my book that is just the start.Harry RedknappOf course, they must make sure the Wembley win isn’t a one-off and Newcastle can only prove that over time but what convinces me they will is the way Eddie has gone about it.Right from the start he said it wouldn’t be a trolley dash for the biggest names in football just because he had the money and he proved it by making Kieran Trippier his first signing.When Dan Burn, something of a journeyman up to then,  arrived soon after fans weren’t exactly buzzing at the new buys.Ask them now, though, and you will get a different answer. And do not forget, either, that for all there is no shortage of stars in the squad, the fact most have become bigger at the Toon than they were before says a lot.Eddie Howe lifted the Carabao Cup but he can win more with NewcastleCredit: PAThe Geordie’s still know how to party but fans shouldn’t be happy yetCredit: SplashAlexander Isak is a world-class striker you could put alongside any in the game, while Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali are top-notch midfielders.Anthony Gordon is one of the best wingers around and young full-backs Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have both won England caps since signing.But for me, Trippier has been the real star of the show and the leader every manager wants.The second leg of the League Cup semi-final was perfect proof, when he steamed into the first tackle and set the tone. Arsenal were never in it after that.Dan Burn is just unbelievable. From doing the rounds at places like Yeovil, Birmingham and Wigan to man of the match at Wembley and an England cap. What a career!Harry Redknapp And Burn is just unbelievable. From doing the rounds at places like Yeovil, Birmingham and Wigan to man of the match at Wembley and an England cap. What a career!There have been more glamorous names since — most of them, to be honest — but Eddie knew it had to start with characters. And they don’t come bigger than those two.He knows there is a huge summer ahead, too, and top of the list has to be keeping Isak, with loads of Europe’s big names sniffing around.Read More on The SunSecuring a Champions League place will help, for sure, and with five teams in it from England next season, there is a great chance of Newcastle being one of them.Now those incredible Geordie fans are already daring to dream — and this time there may be no rude awakening. More

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      in Soccer

      Southampton 0 Aston Villa 3: Ramsdale saves TWO Asensio penalties but Saints creep closer to worst ever Prem record

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      OLLIE WATKINS saved Aston Villa blushes – particularly two-time penalty flop Marco Asensio – on a bruising afternoon on the South Coast.Villa boss Unai Emery could not have imagined that a trip to relegated Southampton would have proven to be such a difficult and frustrating one.Ollie Watkins spared Aston Villa’s blushesCredit: GettyThe high-demanding Spaniard had to wait until 73 minutes before Watkins’s intervention opened the floodgates for the visitors by the Channel.And once he could relax, he was able to rest some weary bodies before Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against PSG at Villa Park.Within seven minutes of replacing the subdued Marcus Rashford, Watkins showed the flexibility of hamstrings as he managed, while on the stretch, to hook a volley past Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.It was a brilliant goal, one the great Premier League strikers would have applauded, and it settled the nerves for the away fans who had otherwise been in great voice throughout.read more in footballIf anyone was pleased with Watkins’s heroics, then it would have been Asensio who, three minutes earlier, had seen his dreadful penalty saved by Ramsdale.Asensio, 29, had a SECOND poorly-struck penalty saved in stoppage time – he went the same way and so did Ramsdale – but this time John McGinn was on hand to benefit.In the end, it was a result that lifted Villa into fifth place in the Prem and back into Champions League contention – an eighth win out of nine outings.But given the tough fixture list coming up, Emery would have wanted to have sealed this much quicker than they did, so he could rest key players that had been subjected to some hefty Southampton challenges.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt could have been so much easier had Rashford – playing alongside Asenio in the Premier League for just the second time – scored inside the opening 40 seconds.On-loan Rashford, 27, was unleashed by Youri Tielemans and survived the clutches of the new semi-automated offside technology.Yet on his 29th birthday and 250th Saints appearance, Polish defender Jan Bednarek was in the right place to block the attempt.Since their record relegation was confirmed last weekend at Tottenham, it was inevitable that sorry Ivan Juric – who oversaw 13 defeats out of 16 – would not be hanging around.Interim boss Simon Rusk made two changes and went with a back three and though Villa dominated possession in the first half, Southampton had a chance on 16 minutes that could have ruffled a few feathers.Cameron Archer outpaced the tentative Tyrone Mings but Emiliano Martinez saved the attempt with both hands and was reminded by the away support why he is the “world’s No.1 keeper”.Ramsdale, 26, has had a terrible time in the Saints goal this season, following another personal relegation, but he will be proud of the way he blocked the long-distance shot from Amadou Onana on 48 minutes.And also how he managed to palm away the spot-kick from Spaniard Asensio, who must do better if the tie with PSG ends up going to penalties this week.Watkins had won that clear-cut penalty – less than two minutes after replacing Rashford – from a Bednarek challenge.And the Englishman scored his 15th goal of the season as he managed to reach Tieleman’s crafty long-pass.Any prospects of a nerve finale seemed to disappear when Dutch midfielder Malen scored for the third game in a row with a clinical finish on 79 minutes.That was the cue for hundreds of Southampton to go marching out of St Marys and in fairness, who could blame them?Apart from a 88th-minute Martinez full-length save from Mateus Fernandes, it got worse for Rusk’s troops.Read More on The SunAnd though Ramsdale defied Asensio once again, McGinn was quick to react in the 94th minute, showing off once more his famous goggle celebration.Southampton need just ONE POINT to avoid being the statistically worst team in Premier League history but with six matches left, they are running out of time. More

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      in Soccer

      What I’ve heard about Phil Foden makes he respect him and even more angry at sick chants about his mum

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      THE problem with teenagers, a headteacher told me this week, is that they are trying to live in two different moral universes.He says that there is the moral universe we all know, with its rules, conventions and niceties.Pep Guardiola embraced Phil Foden after he had endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his MumCredit: GettyIncredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptableCredit: GettyDeclan Rice endures similar stuff as Foden, along with his long-time partner Lauren FryerCredit: RexAnd then there’s another universe, the internet’s moral universe, where there are next to no rules and precious few niceties.OK, every day’s a school day, so I’ll take that on board and, just for good measure, I’m going to throw a third moral universe into this mix — football’s moral universe.This one, while not all bad by any means, can be a very ugly place indeed.I’ve not met Phil Foden but from what I’ve seen and heard, as well as being a prodigiously gifted footballer he’s a decent guy.READ MORE FROM ADRIAN CHILESI was talking to one of his coaches at England youth level. Listing the attributes Foden showed as a kid — speed, awareness, bravery, command of the ball etc — the coach added another, one which has stuck in my mind. “He cared what his teammates thought about him,” said the coach.Interesting that. You’d think that caring what your teammates thought of you would be common enough among footballers to not even merit mention. It would seem this isn’t the case.Most read in FootballPhil cares though, and that’s another reason I hold him in high esteem.Perhaps that’s why I was more appalled than usual at the behaviour of football fans when I saw that photo of Pep Guardiola embracing him after he’d endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his Mum.‘They should be ashamed’ – Pep Guardiola slams Man Utd fans for sick chants aimed at City ace Phil Foden’s mumAwful. But incredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptable. Because, you see, this is in football’s moral universe where, for some reason, there are those who think it’s OK to behave despicably.Declan Rice, double miracle-freekick scorer and another nice guy, endures similar stuff — along with his long-time partner, the equally appealing Lauren Fryer.Lauren, you see, doesn’t conform to some football fans’ idea of what a footballer’s wife should look like. So the poor woman gets abused on social media and, for Declan’s benefit, from the stands. Dreadful.This is what happens in football’s moral universe. We seem to forget that footballers are human beings with, you know, feelings. However thick their skins have to be, they still have feelings.I’ve been as guilty of forgetting this as anyone. Many years ago, when I was presenting Match Of The Day 2, I made a joking reference to Arjen Robben’s baldness. The following week I got a letter — yes, a letter, that’s how long ago it was — from someone who said I should be ashamed of myself as Robben could well be very sensitive about his hair loss.Initially I scoffed and was minded to reply that Chelsea’s multi-millionaire Dutch superstar could probably deal with a jibe from me.But when I had thought about it, even though the man himself probably couldn’t have cared less, I concluded that I had been very wrong to mock his appearance.That was on TV. I’m afraid I’ve said a lot worse as a fan at matches.I’m not without sinSo I don’t preach this sermon from any moral high ground, because I’m not without sin. I confess, I’ve yelled and chanted stuff at football matches that I would never, and I mean never, have yelled or chanted anywhere else.I shouted some dreadful things at Jack Grealish, for example, at a play-off semi-final when he was at Villa. I’m quite sure he couldn’t care less, but I can’t say it was my finest hour.I don’t excuse myself, but these things happen in football’s moral universe, where it’s not that there’s no right or wrong, but there is a big, bad grey area.There’s a line in there somewhere and we all know where it is.Bawling abuse at a footballer, calling them terrible names, isn’t a good look. But it probably, arguably, just about falls on the right side of the line.Abusing that footballer’s family is a different matter. That’s on the wrong side of the line.It’s bang out of order, and everyone guilty knows this.BOB’S A COMEDY GREATThere was no danger of anyone else but Bob Mortimer winning Last One LaughingCredit: RexSOME comedians you look at, and think there walks a genius, with a routine to die for.Others, often by means of cruelty or crudeness, shock you into laughter despite yourself.And then there’s Bob Mortimer, who just seems to have funny bones.Really funny bones.There was no danger of anyone else winning TV’s Last One Laughing.What chance did any of them have against a man who can make “have you got a kitchen island?” sound like the funniest question ever asked.And as for, “I like sausage dogs, with those tiny legs”, I will never again see a dachshund waddling past without thinking of Bob.DON AND ON AND ON AND ..The role journalists played in Donald Trump’s rise will one day be worthy of examinationCredit: GettyWHEN the history books about Donald Trump are written, the role of us journalists in his rise will be worthy of examination.We can take a lot of the blame/credit – delete according to your view of The Orange Man. Like him or loathe him, laugh at him or with him, we have found it quite impossible not to give him all the attention he craves because he provides us with all the material we crave.He fills pages of papers and hours of television, radio and podcasts. Where would we be without him.After his first term ended in ignominious defeat, we assumed we’d seen the last of him.Back then, the brilliant political commentator, comedian and excellent Trump mimic Matt Forde captured the mood of many of us when he tweeted, “Goodnight sweet prince”. And now it’s like he never went away.IT’S BOT TO BE A BONUSTHE march of artificial intelligence will, at worst, destroy humanity or, at best, just take a lot of our jobs.One thing pleases me, though, even if it means me being replaced by a machine – I’ve heard what’s about to happen described as the first technological step-change in history that’s going to hit middle-class jobs the hardest.Writers and radio presenters will be easy meat for the machines.But it’ll be a long time before AI can do proper jobs, requiring blood, sweat and tears as well as great skill.Plumbers, chippies, sparks, gardeners, scaffolders, bricklayers – your jobs are as safe as houses.Enjoy the ride, you’ve earned it.WHY do so many people sit on public transport looking at or listening to their phones without wearing headphones?Why should we all have to hear terrible music from those who look at their phones on public transport without wearing headphones?Credit: GettyWhy should we all have to hear their terrible music, boring conversations or mindless TikTok-ery. I’m genuinely interested.But I can’t come up with a way of asking the question in a way that’s not going to end with some kind of violence visited upon me.PAIN IN THE CHIP BUTTYA chip shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up its price to fifteen quidCredit: GettyA CHIP shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up the price of cod and chips to 15 quid.I can’t remember the last time I left a chippy having dropped anywhere near that little. I just get too excited.After a couple of pints with some mates in Stourbridge last month, I popped into the local chip shop on the way home.Before I knew it I’d bought large cod and chips, small cod and chips, mushy peas, two battered potato slices and some cod roe.And this was only for me and my Mum. We’re still not back to full health, financially or physically.AIMEE’S PEARLY QUEENAimee Lou Wood is just brilliant in the White Lotus, despite the show being absolutely indigestibleCredit: HBOEVERYONE I know is banging on about White Lotus being the best TV ever. I’ve heard it praised so many times that it must be true.Well, I’ve found it to be absolutely indigestible, veering wildly between rather silly and terribly boring.Read More on The SunBut I’m glad I saw the bits I managed to stay awake for because that was enough to confirm for me that Stockport’s Aimee Lou Wood is just brilliant.At first you can see nothing but her proudly prominent teeth. But before long all you’re seeing is a brilliant acting talent going from strength to strength. More

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      ‘I preferred to wait to publish this’ – Edu releases lengthy statement as Arsenal gardening leave finally expires

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      EDU GASPAR has released an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans after his final day with the club.Having joined as technical director in 2019, Edu became the sporting director in 2022, working closely with Mikel Arteta to overhaul the culture at the Emirates.Edu Gaspar has paid an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans following his official exitCredit: GettyArsenal’s new sporting director is former Atletico Madrid chief Andrea BertaHe is widely credited with doing an excellent job and playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s rebuild into a title-chasing side.Edu, who was last month replaced by Andrea Berta, was on gardening leave until this week, and he has paid farewell to the Gunners. He posted on Instagram: “Thank you, Arsenal. Thank you, Gunners!”With a heart full of gratitude, today formally I close one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”After five and a half years, my journey officially as Sporting Director of Arsenal FC has come to the end.”I joined the club in July 2019 as Technical Director, with the challenge of bringing Arsenal with the mission of bringing Arsenal back where it belongs among football’s elite, driving a cultural shift, keep competing for trophies, and making Champions League qualification the minimum expectation for a club of Arsenal’s size. “Later, I had the honour of becoming the first-ever Sporting Director in the club’s history, a milestone I will always carry with great pride.”And throughout this process of rebuilding, you the fans were an essential part of everything! Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates”To the supporters, my most sincere thank you! The support, the energy, and the connection we felt again in every match were simply special. “The Emirates became an amplified version of the old Highbury atmosphere! To have experienced this alongside you is something I will never forget.”Arsenal’s Kai Havertz hits the gym as he continues his recovery from injury The later added: “It was never easy, but our intense work, united by a true team spirit, made me feel fulfilled throughout all these years!”If I’m only now sharing this message, it’s because I’ve been on garden leave in recent months and, out of respect for the club and everyone involved, I preferred to wait until the final official day of my contract to publish this.”I wish Arsenal FC all the best and every success, and I also send my warmest wishes to the new Sporting Director Andrea, who now takes on this beautiful role.”I leave with a peaceful heart and immense pride in what we’ve built together!”Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories.Edu is expected to front Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’s multi-club operation which includes the Premier League side, Olympiacos and Rio Ave. He won six trophies with Arsenal during his playing career, including two titles – in 2002 and the Invincible 2004 campaign.As a director, he witnessed one FA Cup triumph and two Community Shield triumphs.The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League in each of the past two seasons, having placed eighth, eighth and fifth in the three campaigns before that.Read More on The SunArteta’s men look set to miss out on the title once again this term as they sit second, 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. But Arsenal have on foot in the semi-finals of the Champions League after hammering 15-time Kings of Europe Real Madrid 3-0 on Tuesday.Arsenal ratings vs Real Madrid as Declan Rice’s free-kick thunderbolts earn him an ELEVEN out of 10BEND it like Beckham? More like bend it like Declan…It was a set-piece clinic from the Arsenal midfielder as he scored the first free-kicks of his career against Real Madrid – and the first player in Champions League history to score multiple direct free-kicks in the same knockout stage game.Thibaut Courtois was on hand to save Real Madrid in a fast paced first half as he pulled off a fine double save to deny a Rice header and a follow-up effort from Gabriel Martinelli.The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute as England star Rice whipped in a sensational free-kick.Rice then sent the Emirates into the stratosphere with as he added a second with an even better free-kick from the left side of the goal which he rifled into the top right corner.Mikel Merino then swept a devastating third into the bottom corner from a low cross to put the cherry on a remarkable night.Rice’s epic showing was enough to earn him an unprecedented ELEVEN in our player ratings.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the rest of the Gunners… More

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      in Soccer

      ‘He doesn’t feel good’ – Pep Guardiola gives Jack Grealish update as Man City star ‘slapped’ after Manchester derby

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      PEP GUARDIOLA says Phil Foden and Jack Grealish are just two of his stars living in a crazy world.The pair are still recovering from the abuse they suffered in the Manchester derby.Jack Grealish was slapped by a fan after the Manchester derbyCredit: ReutersFoden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United supportCredit: GettyMidfielder Foden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United support who chanted that she was “a s***g.After the final whistle winger Grealish was slapped around the face by a supporter near the entrance to the tunnel – an assault that produced a charge of assault on the elleged perpetrator.Guardiola described the insults hurled as Foden mother as having “no class” while City officials were understood to have been disgusted.But the City boss who will lead his team against Crystal Palace on Saturday fears there will only be more similar incidents in the future.READ MORE IN football Asked how Grealish and Foden have been, Guardiola declared: “He doesn’t feel good but move forward. It happens everywhere.” The City boss added: “It’s a crazy world, not just in sport. Nobody is away from that. it’s not about united.“It’s not a problem about a specific club or department in world football, it happens everywhere.”Guardiola faces the Eagles with a raft of injuries including Erling Haaland but is hopeful he can still steer City into a top five place – and the Champions League for next season.Most read in FootballHe stressed: “The injuries have been all season. So we adapt.“You can see it as a problem or a challenge or a disaster. it could be worse.  I’m really satisfied for the way we handle it.”New footage shows Phil Foden’s reaction to Man Utd fans’ sick chant aimed at his mum City lie a point behind fifth – placed Newcastle United with a game more played but he says: “We have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season. “This is what we have to do, especially at home and tomorrow is a team who has been in incredible form in the last two months and they have always been difficult here. “I admire the manager, the talent they have. But at the same time, I’m optimistic to finish well this season.” More

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      in Motorsport

      ‘Unstable’ – F1 hit by shock resignation as FIA chief quits with blunt statement and George Russell slams leadership

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      GEORGE RUSSELL slammed the FIA’s “unstable” leadership as the sport was thrown into turmoil yesterday.FIA executive Robert Reid resigned yesterday over what he described as a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards”.George Russell wants more trust placed in the teams to work with the FIACredit: EPACarlos Sainz was also scathing in his assessmentCredit: EPAScottish executive Reid was appointed in 2021 when current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was elected, but the pair have fallen out in recent years.When Mercedes ace Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, was asked about Reid’s resignation, he said: “Unfortunately, I think every time we hear some news from that side of the sport, it’s not a big surprise.”As we keep saying, it’s like, what’s next? It’s a shame to see, and hopefully we get more stability sooner rather than later.”It’s getting to a point now where these things are happening so often, and as drivers we’re trying to get involved, in the past, we didn’t really make much headway.RED MORE IN SPORT“Things seem to continuously be going in an unstable direction.“I’ve got to be honest, we’re getting to a point now where our actions are having little impact with those guys, and we’ve got to trust in the teams and Formula 1 to work with the FIA to come to a common ground.“If we can help, we want to be there, but often it just seems like things are going in their own direction.”Reid’s departure is the latest in a string of high-profile resignations at the FIA over the last 18 months.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBen Sulayem has been under fire in the last few years, following various controversies including the FIA’s swearing rules earlier this year.Reid said in his resignation letter: “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rant”Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold.“Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.”My resignation is not about personalities. It is about principles.“Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”On the grid at Suzuka, Sainz reported to the FIA medical team with a stomach issue. After receiving treatment and using the toilet, the Williams driver was late to the national anthem ceremony – something all drivers must attend or risk a fine.The FIA punished Sainz with a €20,000 fine, half of which is suspended for 12 months providing he does not repeat the rules breach, while the fine is usually €60,000.He said: “I was five seconds late, and to be five seconds late and have to pay 10,000, it’s for me, out of the question that we’re having to pay this money.”“I don’t know if I’m gonna get a fine saying this but, s*** happens.”It is not yet known if Sainz will be fined for the swearing incident, with the ex-Ferrari driver in talks with the FIA over whether it will be referred to the stewards.Drivers like Lewis Hamilton have also come under fire for tattoos and piercings in recent years and Russell believes Sainz’s toilet punishment was over the top.He added: “It’s not quite as straightforward as people may think for us to be there on time. Read More on The Sun“We’re often running to the toilet, and there’s sometimes no toilets available between the time you jump out of the car and go into the anthem, and you’ve got people on the grid, or people asking for a quick interview.”He added: “It’s a pretty expensive poo!” More

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      in Soccer

      Former Premier League star-turned-manager wears PINK TUXEDO on touchline as he’s compared to Simpsons character

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      FORMER Premier League midfielder Segundo Castillo has combined coaching with the catwalk… by sporting a PINK TUXEDO during a game.The ex-Ecuador international star loan spells with Everton and Wolves between 2008 and 2010.Segundo Castillo explained why we wears such spectacular outfitsCredit: ReutersThe ex-midfielder likes to make his Barcelona SC players ‘smile’Castillo’s tuxedo couldn’t quite inspire his team to victoryCredit: AFPCastillo, nicknamed Sir Second Castle, now manages home-country club Barcelona SC.And the 42-year-old went the extra mile to produce a smile for their Copa Libertadores clash with Argentina’s River Plate in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.Castillo stunned onlookers by wearing a flamboyant pink dinner jacket as he saw his side earn a commendable 0-0 draw.The fashion-loving former footballer has previously donned black and white tuxes for Barcelona games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut his latest sartorial statement drew plenty of derision online – including memes of Marge Simpson, a character from animated TV show The Simpsons, wearing a pink dress.Castillo said: “When I come out of my dressing-room and my players see me like this, it makes them smile and makes them feel more free for a moment.”The players can tell they are being well looked-after.  “There is a good atmosphere between them and the coaching staff.”Most read in FootballThe ex-Everton and Wolves loanee produced a smile as dazzling as his attireCredit: ReutersCastillo believes his outfit helps his players look on the bright sideCredit: GettyCastillo made nine Prem appearances for Everton, and scored a UEFA Cup goal against Standard Liege.The anchorman went on to play eight times for Wolves, this time on loan from Red Star Belgrade.Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa AmericaHe later played for six clubs in South America, including Barcelona SC, plus Saudi team Al-Hilal.Castillo retired as a player in 2020, taking the permanent Barcelona boss job last year following two spells as interim chief. More