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      in Soccer

      Lucy Pinder’s glam life from lads mags cover girl and topless modelling to dating Captain America and now a top manager

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      SHE was the lads’ mag pin-up that defined the noughties, and now she’s dating a Premier League manager.With her voluptuous curves and girl-next door charm, stunning Lucy Pinder, 40, made her name as a cover star for FHM, Loaded, and Nuts.Lucy Pinder is the former lads’ mag pin-up who has stolen a Prem manager’s heartCredit: PA:Press AssociationStunning Pinder was a staple of men’s lifestyle titles in the early 2000’sCredit: AlamyPinder has gone public with Saints boss Russell MartinAustralian men’s lifestyle title Ralph once declared that she had the “Best Breasts in the World’.Now, she has gone public with Southampton boss Russell Martin.Martin, 38, has grown close to Lucy in recent months and the “besotted” pair were recently turning heads at a Sky Sports function.The Premier League manager received an honorary degree from the University of Brighton yesterday for his charity work after setting up the Russell Martin Foundation to help young people’s lives in Sussex.Read more football newsLucy, 40, was with him as he was presented with his award and the duo posed for a snap on the seafront.The Saints supporting beauty posted the picture on her Instagram story to make their relationship public.Pinder knows a thing or two about celebrity romances having reportedly dated Captain America star in the past.Aside from her glam photoshoots, the brunette stunner also appeared in Hollywood movie Sharknado 5.Most read in FootballRepresenting Southampton on the Sky’s Soccer AM as a Soccerette was another career high.But away from her showbiz lifestyle, Pinder has also been known to do her bit for charity.England’s WAGs: The Real Stars of Euro 2024 Cover starMen of a certain vintage will remember Pinder as one of the defining lads’ mags cover girls.She frequently appeared in FHM, Nuts and Loaded – often topless – helping those titles sell hundreds of thousands of copies.Her amazing looks coupled with her relatability made her the ideal woman to date.Pinder’s modelling career began in 2003, when she was discovered by a photographer on Bournemouth beach.After that, she graced the pages of the Daily Star where she got her big break.In 2005, as the magazine shoots began to take off, she showed her love for the Saints – wearing their jersey for the famous Soccerettes sketch alongside regular host Tim Lovejoy.That TV appearance paved the way for more opportunities on the small screen.Pinder’s curves were well known to readers of Nuts, FHM and LoadedCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlongside pal Michelle Marsh, the buxom pair were readers’ favouritesPinder’s modelling career began in 2003Pinder’s often topless shoots helped shift hundreds of thousands of magazinesCredit: PA:Press AssociationTV and film workLads’ mags died a death – with Nuts closing in 2014 and featuring a tearful Pinder on their final cover.But the gorgeous Hampshire-born football fan had the foresight to explore other opportunities before their demise.The explosion of reality TV on our shores benefitted Pinder, who found new audience.In 2007, she appeared on The Weakest Link and didn’t wilt under Anne Robinson’s barbs.Then, she starred on Celebrity Big Brother where she was the first contestant to leave the houseHighlights included her revealing she hated “thick” people and her annoyance at Coolio’s constant rapping in the house, which amusingly forced her out.Her film career began in 2012, when she played her first supporting role in the comedy horror Strippers vs Werewolves.Pinder pictured leaving the Big Brother house in 2009In 2017, Pinder starred in Sharnado 5: Global SwarmingSouthampton fan Pinder also appeared as a Soccerette on Sky’s Soccer AMread more sport featuresShe then became a Bollywood star in action flick Waarrior Savitri, while a TV movie role came calling in 2017 with a cameo in Sharknado 5: Global Swarming as a Swedish ambassador.Celebrity romanceIt was around this time Pinder began dabbling with living in Los Angeles.Her counterparts, including Leilani and Keeley Hazell have all made a living there.But she reportedly found romance with a Hollywood A-lister instead.In 2015, Pinder was spotted with Captain America star Chris Evans enjoying a date at Disneyworld.They were all smiles as they on the Grizzly Rapids ride at the Californian theme park.It was believed they were smitten with each other, however the relationship soon fizzled out.Pinder’s charms soon attracted a Hollywood film starIn 2015 it was reported Pinder was dating Captain America star Chris EvansCredit: SplashGiving something backAs busy as Pinder is, she has always made time for charity.She has a passion for animals, which has seen her work with a variety of wildlife charities.Those include getting involved in fundraising for TigerTime, the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, International Animal Rescue, and Cats Protection.Pinder also got involved with Help for Heroes – a charity that aids the British Armed Forces community with their physical and mental health, as well as their financial, social and welfare needs.Famously, she shot the Hot Shots Calendar in 2011 and 2014 with  fifty-percent of the money made from sales going towards UK and US military charities.READ MORE SUN STORIESPinder has been known to support several military charitiesGlam Pinder also supports various charities for wildlife and animalsPinder is ready to dazzle in the PremCredit: PA:Press AssociationFurthermore, she supported Male Cancer Awareness Campaign by taking part in a five-mile run with fellow glamour girl Rhian Sugden.So, she’s beautiful, talented, and an all-round good egg. Lucky Russell Martin. More

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      First look at all 15 futuristic World Cup ’34 stadiums from clifftop venue to ground that needs NEW CITY built around it

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      SAUDI Arabia has given footie fans the first look at the 15 futuristic stadiums set to host the 2034 World Cup. Incredible pictures reveal the ambitious modern arenas that boast jaw-dropping features – including an entire NEW CITY set to be built around one stadium. The Murabba Stadium in Riyadh will feature artificial canyons and giant rock designsCredit: www.dezeen.comThe King Abdullah Economic City Stadium will have a drum-shaped design to host 45,000 footie fansCredit: www.dezeen.comPrince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium will be built from locally-sourced materialsCredit: www.dezeen.comThe King Roshn Stadium will feature crystal-like shards designsCredit: www.dezeen.comThe Qiddiya Coast Stadium will become the most colourful stadium out of the lotCredit: www.dezeen.comSaudi authorities have unveiled ambitious plans to construct 11 new stadiums and give four existing ones a major revamp.As part of the official bid submission to FIFA, these stadiums will be based in and around four cities – Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar and Abha.Saudi Arabia is currently the only bidder for the 2034 World Cup.They are likely to be given the tournament unopposed after Fifa made moves to ensure the World Cup was handed to the Gulf State according to The Times.more on saudi arabia But human rights groups have expressed concerns over the construction of the stadiums, with fears that migrant labour will be exploited as it was at the 2022 World Cup in neighbouring Qatar.One unique arena will be constructed in Neom – a yet-unbuilt linear city that plans to introduce flying taxis and high-speed elevators.Dubbed the “most unique stadium in the world”, it will be built 350m above the ground atop The Line – a 106-mile-long sideways skyscraper that will become home to 1.5 million residents, plans claim. The Saudi 2034 bid book states: “Neom Stadium will be the most unique stadium in the world. With a pitch situated more than 350m above ground, stunning vistas and a roof created from the city itself, the stadium will be an experience like no other.Most read in Football“Within The Line, mass transport and personal transport will be enabled by a network of tram-like Autonomous Rapid Transit vehicles and Personal Rapid Transit, operating on five primary horizontal transport corridors.Meanwhile, one of the stadiums, called New Murabba, will have a baffling design surrounded by artificial canyons and giant rock structures. Deezen reports its design “replicates the layered overlapping planes and peeling planar texture of the bark of the native acacia tree”. The 45,000-seat stadium will form part of the Murabba downtown development in Riyadh – and will also feature a 1,300ft-long cube-shaped skyscraper. Another incredible stadium being developed is the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium which will feature traditional architectural styles and motifs from the country’s heritage. It is understood the stadium will be constructed entirely using locally sourced materials – and will feature some of the biggest solar panels for efficient power supply. The Neom stadium has been dubbed the ‘most unique stadium in the world’Credit: www.dezeen.comThe King Abdullah Sports City Stadium will be renovated to increase seating capacityCredit: www.dezeen.comPrince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium will see a 45,000-seater stadium built into a cliff edge in RiyadhCredit: www.dezeen.comThe Jeddah Central Development Stadium will be entirely surrounded by buildingsCredit: www.dezeen.comKing Salman International Stadium will be the country’s largest stadium when it completesCredit: www.dezeen.comMeanwhile, the Qiddiya Coast Stadium is set to be the most colourful stadium out of the lot. Inspired by the Mexicans, the arena is set to have a vibrant design that will be a “physical representation of the relationship between people and water, energy and matter, with its design also evoking the ripple effect of a wave”, says the bid. With an area spanning an impressive Currently being developed in Riyadh with a However, the most striking of all will be the ambitious King Salman Stadium with a capacity of 92,000 people – and is set to be the biggest venue of all. Spanning across an impressive area of 660,000 square, it will serve as the home ground for the Saudi national team – and will hoist the opening and final match of the tournament. The King Salman will have not just VIP areas, but also VVIP areas, presumably used to host heads of state.The state-of-the-art arena will have a royal box with 150 seats, 120 hospitality suites, 300 VIP seats, and 2,200 seats for various high-profile guests.The site will include shopping centres and recreational areas accessible to all, making it an attractive tourist spot amid the World Cup season. Multiple giant screens will also be placed around the main pitch inside the stadium to enhance the viewing experience for footie fans. The final design, inspired by the mountainous terrain concept, integrates seamlessly with King Abdulaziz Park through a valley that intersects the surrounding green spaces.It is designed to blend into its surrounding topography and natural habitat while providing shade and ventilation tailored to the desert climate, according to the bid book.Full list of the stadiums with their capacities RiyadhKing Salman International Stadium – 92,760 King Fahad Sports City Stadium – 70,200 Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium – 46,979 New Murabba Stadium – 46,010Roshn Stadium – 46,000Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium – 46,865South Riyadh Stadium – 47,060King Saud University Stadium – 46,319JeddahKing Abdullah Sports City Stadium – 58,432Qiddiya Coast Stadium – 46,096Jeddah Central Development Stadium – 45,794King Abdullah Economic City Stadium – 45,700Al KhobarAramco Stadium – 46,096AbhaKing Khalid University Stadium – 45,428NeomNeom Stadium – 46,010’BUILT OVER BLOOD’Beneath the glitzy facades of the developments by ego-mad Saudis lie the stories of threats, forced evictions and bloodshed.Many projects have faced fierce criticism over human rights abuses – including the £400billion Neom project where tribes were shoved out of their homeland, imprisoned or executed.At least 20,000 members of the Huwaitat tribe face eviction, with no information about where they will live in the future.Authorities in the port city of Jeddah also demolished many houses to implement Saudi’s development plans – with thousands of locals evicted illegally.One campaigner claimed: “Neom is built on Saudi blood.”Jeed Basyouni, Middle East director of the human rights organisation Reprieve, told DW: “We have seen, time and again, that anyone who disagrees with the crown prince, or gets in his way, risks being sentenced to jail or to death.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2022, Saudi Arabia sentenced three tribesmen to death for refusing to leave the desert site of the futuristic supercity Neom.The trio from the Howeitat tribe had protested against their forcible eviction from the northern Tabuk province to make way for the ultra-modern metropolis.Inside Saudi Arabia’s £1.2trillion investmentSAUDI Arabia is set to spend £138billion every year on mega projects between 2025 and 2028.Here are some of the most ambitious projects the Middle Eastern country plans to launch by 2030: NEOM- It is set to be a Jetsons-style ultra-modern metropolis in contrast to the other very conservative parts of the desert kingdom.Backed by Saudi’s £400billion Private Investment Fund – the group which bought Newcastle United – the plans for Neom are so ambitious that some of the technology doesn’t even exist yet.Planning docs show the city will have flying taxis – a vehicle depicted in science fiction films such as Blade Runner and Back to the Future II.The most striking thing about Neom is a mirrored megastructure called The Line – a 110-mile, 500m tall and 200m wide mirrored building that will connect Neom to the rest of the kingdom.Red Sea Project – The Red Sea Project is a tourism development on an archipelago of Saudi Arabian islands with its dedicated airport. It’s set to be built on 90 undeveloped islands between Umluj and Al Wajh on Saudi Arabia’s west coast.Super Cave Hotel – Also part of Neom, Leyja will be a jaw-dropping hotel complex carved into the walls of a giant canyon.Directors of the project claim it will open its doors to tourists in 2024 – despite not being built yet.It will have three state-of-the-art hotels, designed by world-leading architects to blend in with the natural surroundings that make up 95 per cent of the futuristic city.The hotels will have 120 luxurious rooms and will operate completely sustainably to provide “distinct experiences”.Future City Epicon – Epicon is the latest megalomaniac development to be announced by Neom on November 15.This futuristic coastal city will feature residential beach villas, hotels, and a luxurious resort.Located on the Gulf of Aqaba, Epicon will be comprised of two ultra-modern towers, measuring 738ft and 908ft.The sky-high destination will be home to 41 hotels and luxury homes, offering 14 suites and hotel apartments.Close to the pair of luxury towers, Epicon’s very own resort will be located, featuring 120 rooms and 45 stunning residential beach villas.Epicon will also offer a beach club, spas, an array of recreational activities and water sports, culinary options for every palate, and the natural beauty of the shorelines in Neom.The King Khalid University Stadium will have a spectacular show of lightsCredit: www.dezeen.comThe King Saud University Stadium will be renovated for the 2034 World CupCredit: www.dezeen.comThe Aramco Stadium will have a whirlpool-shaped designCredit: www.dezeen.comKing Fahd Sports City Stadium will be revamped to increase seating capacity from 58,000 to 70,000Credit: www.dezeen.comThe South Riyadh Stadium will be an amalgamation of modern design and rich historyCredit: www.dezeen.com More

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      in Boxing

      I used to work in a clothes shop fitting Kell Brook’s shoes, now I’m looking to fill his boots in the ring

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      CALLUM SIMPSON used to fit Kell Brook’s shoes but now he wants to fill his boots.Barnsley’s 27-year-old super-middleweight put himself through college with a part-time job in a menswear shop where Sheffield’s former welterweight world champ would pop in for free gear.Callum Simpson fights Zak Chelli at Barnsley’s Oakwell stadiumCredit: GettySimpson and Sheffield’s world champion Kell Brook go way backCredit: https://www.instagram.com/callumsimp/Simpson would have to race up and down stairs to cater for his celebrated fellow Yorkshireman.But now the tables have turned and Brook will drive 12 miles up the M1 to support Simpson, in his bid to dethrone dangerous British and Commonwealth champ Zak Chelli.Ahead of Saturday’s shootout at Simpson’s beloved Barnley’s Oakwell stadium, he told SunSport: “Between the ages of 16-18 I worked part-time, while I was still in college, in a clothes shop that sponsored Kell Brook.“When Kell would come in I would have to wait for him to pick all the shoes he wanted, run upstairs to find them all in his size, then loosen all the laces so be could slide them on, like Cinderella.Read more in Boxing“We would get free tickets for his fights when they were at the Sheffield arena and my mates would always tell me ‘that’ll be you one day’.“And now I am signed with Boxxer and Sky Sports and Kell has messaged me to say he will come over and watch.“So going from loosening his shoes to having him at ringside will be a nice and surreal moment. But it’s all come from hard work.”Simpson continued to subsidise his training and fighting with work in fashion right up until last year when he broke out of the small-hall circuit.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe’s timed his 14-0 form perfectly as the new Saudi money flooding into the sport is giving some of these brave men the fortunes they deserve.But boxing fans should remember the blood, sweat, tears and honest toil they all go through to get anywhere near the top.Inside Anthony Joshua’s amazing car collection “This stuff doesn’t happen overnight,” the down-to-earth lad said.“When I had my first area title fight in 2022, my first 10-rounder, I was training twice-a-day and working 45hr weeks, Saturdays and Sundays.“For that fight I weighed-in at Friday lunchtime and rushed into work to make up the time, then boxed on Saturday and worked all day Sunday.“My second fight was a four-rounder in 2019, on a Josh Warrington undercard at Leeds arena and I worked the next day.When I had my first area title fight in 2022, my first 10-rounder, I was training twice-a-day and working 45hr weeks, Saturdays and SundaysCallum Simpsom“But because I worked in a busy store, not tucked away in an office or on a building site, I was having lads come up all day looking puzzled.“They were asking me if I was really the bloke they had seen box the night before and what the hell I was doing there trying to sell them jeans and trainers. “Because fans often think that if you box on TV then you are instantly a millionaire, like the footballers, but it’s far from it. Nothing comes overnight in boxing.”Simpson first caught our eye when he walked into a show as a VIP fan wearing an outrageous pink and furry jacket and sunglasses.It looked like he was the latest boxer to full victim to the glitz-and-glamour charade that ruins so many young talents.I know exactly what one you mean and I only wore it because I had just bought in Milan – and that sounds posh but it was only in H&M over there!Callum SimpsonCallum Simpson looked the part when he met Kano in his pink jumperCredit: https://www.instagram.com/callumsimp/But he put us right perfectly, explaining: “I know exactly what one you mean and I only wore it because I had just bought in Milan – and that sounds posh but it was only in H&M over there!“I love fashion and clothes, I have always worked in it too. Training and dieting is so regimented and strict and boring that any way to find a bit of fun is important.“Me and my girlfriend can’t eat and drink whatever we like or go wherever we want, there’s so much sacrifice.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBut when pressed on whether he wears the same Hollywood clobber back up in Barnsley, he laughs: “Er, I managed to have it on once for about 15 seconds.“It was a cold day and I grabbed it out of the back of the car but my mate saw it and said ‘there’s no way you are wearing that’. So I walked around town freezing.” More

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      in Boxing

      Why Cuba’s Olympic boxers disguised themselves as GIRLS to flee and turn professional until 60-year rule was overturned

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      CUBA are the kings of amateur boxing – but for six decades they were BANNED from turning professional.It left some of their great champions of the past left to flee the country, often on speed boats and even disguising themselves to do so.Odlanier Solis Fonte in the 2004 OlympicsCredit: RexYuriorkis Gamboa won gold at the 2004 Athens GamesCredit: Bongarts – GettyTurning pro in Cuba was prohibited since 1962 because their late leader Fidel Castro regarded it as corrupt.So Cubans were convinced to box for country, not cash.So much so that heavyweight legend Felix Savon – a three-time Olympic gold medalist – turned down the chance to face Mike Tyson.Legendary but controversial promoter Don King offered Savon numerous multimillion-dollar offers to defect and fight superstar Tyson.READ MORE ON OLYMPICSBut his response? “Why would I box for a $1m when I can fight for 10 million Cuban people?”Despite Savon’s loyalty to the amateur code, not all of his countrymen were willing to do so.Many of Cuba’s 2004 Olympic standouts in Athens took the plunge to leave and chase their world title dreams in America.Odlanier Solis, Yuriorkis Gamboa and Yan Barthelemy all sold their medals won in Greece for as little as £1,000 to buy food for their families.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThen, while travelling to a team training camp in Venezuela in December 2006, they made a run for it and headed to Colombia.From there, they went to Germany and signed professional contracts while awaiting US visas.GB’s super-heavyweights It inspired Guillermo Rigondeaux and Erislandy Lara – both future world champs – to do the same until their efforts in 2007 were initially foiled.The pair disappeared while representing Cuba in the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro and were sent back home.According to The Independent, they were dressed up as women to slip through Brazilian security, but were sensationally captured in a BROTHEL.Both were then banned from ever representing Cuba again which only proved to encourage them to try to escape once more.And by 2009 they had each successfully defected to America, with Rigondeaux and Lara later going on to win world titles as pros.With five of their former Olympians tempted over to the paid ranks, Cuba suffered somewhat of a crisis at Beijing in 2008.Felix Savon famously turned down the chance to fight Mike TysonCredit: AP:Associated PressGuillermo Rigondeaux defected from Cuba and won a world titleCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionRigondeaux, left, and Erislandy Lara, right, got caught trying to defectFor the first time since 1988, they left the Games without a single gold medal in boxing.But it did not last long, because in London four years later they twice won gold and another two bronzes.Perhaps what was even more appreciated, no one from the team immediately turned over.However, by the time the next Olympics finished in Rio, Lenier Pero, Robeisy Ramirez and Joahnys Argilagos all defected.Cuban authorities then had a fight on their hands to convince their Tokyo 2020 stable to remain put after the Games were delayed amid the coronavirus pandemic.And they successfully did so and Cuba topped the medal charts with four golds and one bronze.Andy Cruz won gold in Tokyo in 2021Credit: AFPCruz is now an unbeaten proCredit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom
      Julio Cesar La Cruz, Arlen Lopez, Roniel Iglesias and Andy Cruz took gold while Lazaro Alvarez left with bronze.Despite Cuba’s years of in-fighting to keep their top names from fleeing to turn pro – everything changed in 2022. Because Cuba finally ended their 60-year ban on pro boxing and gave the green light for fighters to turn over. And in turn, some boxers chose to divide their commitments to the amateur and pro codes following a separate controversial ruling. In 2016, boxers with pro records were welcomed back into the Olympic amateur scene. From Cuba’s last pack of medalists, only Cruz decided against it as he stands 3-0 and already touted for world titles. But 2-0 heavyweight La Cruz – who was eliminated in the last 16 in Paris – and 3-0 middleweight Lopez – through to the quarter-finals – returned to the amateurs. READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is a sign Cubans are still committed to the amateur code despite the allure of prizefighting paycheques and world title honours away from home. Arlen Lopez is boxing in the Olympics despite having a pro recordCredit: EPA More

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      Inside incredible futuristic World Cup stadium set to be built 350m above ground and accessed by driverless vehicles

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      SAUDI ARABIA will build 11 new stadiums for the 2034 World Cup in what is likely to be the most expensive sports construction project ever undertaken.The most striking design will see a 45,000-seater stadium built into a cliff edge in Riyadh and decked out in futuristic LED panels.The amazing structure will not be reachable by carCredit: XAnother stadium will be built into a cliff edgeCredit: XAnother will be built 350m above ground in the as-yet unbuilt city of Neom.That structure will only be reachable by driverless vehicles and high speed lifts.Neom is a city currently under construction in the desert and will be 106 miles long.It is an ‘indoor city’ made up of parallel sky scrapers.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile 11 brand new stadiums are being created, four current ones in use in the Saudi Pro League will also be renovated.Saudi Arabia is currently the only bidder for the 2034 World Cup.They are likely to be given the tournament unopposed after Fifa made moves to ensure the World Cup was handed to the Gulf State according to The Times.Human rights groups have expressed concerns over the construction of the stadiums, with fears that migrant labour will be exploited as it was at the 2022 World Cup in neighbouring Qatar.Most read in FootballThe King Salman stadium would host the finalCredit: Royal Commision for RiyadhCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Saudi state is also known to suppress political opposition and LGBTQ+ rights.The tournament looks set to take place in November and December, just as the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was.Inside stunning future stadium of football giants that includes impressive feature that will be the largest in EuropeOn the construction of the futuristic Neom stadium, the Saudi 2034 bid book states: “Neom Stadium will be the most unique stadium in the world. With a pitch situated more than 350m above ground, stunning vistas and a roof created from the city itself, the stadium will be an experience like no other.“Within The Line, mass transport and personal transport will be enabled by a network of tram-like Autonomous Rapid Transit vehicles and Personal Rapid Transit, operating on five primary horizontal transport corridors.“The corridors will be placed at 30, 150, 250, 350 and 450 metres above ground, and will enable fast and efficient transit. Vertical mobility will be facilitated by high-speed lifts in city cores, connecting to the five different levels of The Line.”The biggest capacity venue would be the King Salman stadium which would host both the opening game and the final – seating 92,000 spectators.The King Salman will have not just VIP areas, but also VVIP areas, presumably used to host heads of state.A total of 132 training venues located across 15 cities are proposed as base camps for the 48 teams, and more than half of these would be built from scratch.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe World Cup would be the jewel in the crown of a focused investment into sport in recent years by the Saudi state.The nation has invested heavily in football domestically, in Newcastle United and have brought boxing, golf and snooker to the Gulf state. More

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      From reality TV to the ‘heir to the Klitschko throne’ how GB’s heavyweights fared after Delicious Orie’s Olympic exit

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      TEAM GB’S medal-laden super-heavyweight success came to a controversial end following Delicious Orie’s Olympic exit. Orie was bidding to become GB’s sixth super-heavy medalist in seven Games but he lost a disputed decision to Davit Chaloyan of Armenia. Delicious Orie was knocked out of the 2024 Paris OlympicsCredit: ReutersIt means for the first time in a decade, Team GB go without a super-heavyweight medal – with Orie now touted to turn professional.But it has yielded differing success from boxing superstardom to reality TV shows and failure to live up to heavy billing. Audley Harrison, Sydney 2000 Harrison became GB’s first super-heavyweight gold medallist in Australia and came home a hero. Promoters queued up for his pro signature and soon he signed a £1million deal with the BBC to show his first ten bouts. READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd he got off to an excellent start with 19 straight wins in five years – until he faced Danny Williams for the Commonwealth title. Williams – who had stunned and out-of-shape Mike Tyson the year prior – won the fight by split-decision. Harrison was then beaten in his very next bout by Dominick Guinn to leave his career in crisis. Audley Harrison won Olympic gold in 2000Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdIn the years following, his world title aspirations went up in smoke with inconsistent form. Most read in BoxingHe then fought David Haye in a 2010 domestic grudge bout but lost in three rounds – landing just TWO punches.A year after the infamous defeat, Harrison featured on Strictly Come Dancing – getting KOd in round seven. Harrison’s boxing career came to a sad end in 2013 losing to future heavyweight champ and star Deontay Wilder. A year later, he starred on Celebrity Big Brother alongside boxing promoter Kellie Maloney – formerly Frank. Harrison in 2016 featured on Celebrity MasterChef and now spends his time as an occasional boxing pundit and pro poker player. David Haye KOd Audley Harrison in 2010Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdHarrison went in Celebrity Big Brother in 2014Credit: GettyDavid Price, 2008 Beijing Liverpool’s 6ft 8in giant pipped a young Tyson Fury after becoming one of the only to beat the Gypsy King in the boxing ring. Price won bronze in China and turned pro with huge expectation – not helped much by future champ Tony Bellew’s prediction. Bellew told iFL TV in 2012: “David Price is the heir to the Klitschko throne.” Price, Fury and Wilder were all touted as the ones to succeed Wladimir and Vitali Klitshcko but only two of them made it. David Price won 2008 in BeijingCredit: PA:Press AssociationBecause while Fury defeated Wladimir in 2015 the same year Wilder also won the WBC belt, Price laboured behind. He was knocked out twice by Tony Thompson in 2013 – despite the American testing positive for a banned substance. Price in 2017 chased a mega-fight with Joshua and revealed he dropped a young AJ in sparring. Joshua admitted the story was true but the bout never materialised with Price further being knocked out by Christian Hammer and Alexander Povetkin. His career came to a crashing end in 2019 following defeat to Derek Chisora – with Price spending his retirement supporting his beloved Reds. Price was KOd by Alexander PovetkinCredit: ReutersAnthony Joshua, 2012 London Joshua came second in the World Championships in 2011 but ran into trouble with the law the same year. He avoided jail for drugs offences and turned his life around to qualify for the London Games – where AJ’s road to stardom began.Joshua took the gold on home soil and was quickly signed up by Eddie Hearn – at the time and up-and-coming promoter. Within four years he was heavyweight champion and one of the biggest stars in Britain. Anthony Joshua won gold at the 2012 London OlympicsCredit: PAJoshua has reigned twice as unified world champion and returns for his third crack on September 21 against Daniel Dubois. His career as a prizefighter has seen him earn over £200MILLION. Away from the ring, Joshua has sponsorship deals with Under Armour, Hugo Boss and Lucozade. And up until 2022, he was still training at Team GB’s Sheffield training HQ. Joe Joyce, 2016 Rio Joyce only began boxing at 22 after growing up as a talented track and field athletics talent. But he took to the sport well and used his huge 6ft 6in frame to win national titles and a place in the 2016 Olympic squad. And Joyce looked on the way to emulating AJ before he lost a controversial decision to France’s Tony Yoka in the final. The loss was among a series of bouts being investigated amid allegations of corrupt scoring.Joe Joyce won Olympic silver in 2016Credit: Getty Images – GettyStill, Joyce turned pro in 2017 aged 31 and raced through the ranks with a succession of big wins including against Dubois and Joseph Parker. But his career was left hanging in the balance following consecutive stoppage losses to China’s 20st giant Zhilei Zhang. Joyce did return with a laboured victory over Kash Ali before again losing to British veteran Derek Chisora. Despite the run of three defeats in four, Joyce hinted he will continue after talking down retirement. Frazer Clarke, 2021 Tokyo Clarke might have thought his Olympic dream would never come true. He first became a GB boxer in 2009 but was overlooked for Joshua in 2012 and then lost out to Joyce four years after that. Clarke – who worked security for Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing fights – eventually got called up for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. But again disaster struck as the coronavirus pandemic KOd the Games and potentially Clarke’s hopes. Frazer Clarke took bronze in 2021 in TokyoCredit: GettyClarke stuck with it and eventually made it to Japan and walked away with silver before turning pro in 2022 aged 30. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is currently unbeaten in nine bouts and featured in one of the fights of the year in 2024. Clarke shared 12 gruelling and thrilling rounds with Fabio Wardley in March – fuelling demand for an anticipated rematch. Fabio Wardley and Clarke drew in a British classicCredit: Reuters More

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      Inside Team GB’s boxing failure in Paris with fighters controversially beaten before iconic sport VANISHES from Olympics

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      TEAM GB’s boxing team have been knocked off the podium in dramatic fashion.By Monday night, FOUR of our six fighters were already out.Team GB used to be at the top of the world boxing podiumCredit: PABut four of the nation’s six boxing hopefuls at Paris 2024 – including Delicious Orie – are already outCredit: GETTYRob McCracken’s tenure as performance director is under serious threatCredit: GETTYAnd if Lewis Richardson and Chantelle Reid cannot halt the downward trend, the value of the £12million injected into boxing for the Paris Olympic cycle will be seriously questioned.Three of the British defeats were split decisions — with the verdicts against Delicious Orie and Rosie Eccles controversial to say the least.Mike Tyson was world champion in 1996 the last time Britain left without an Olympic boxing medal.Golden duo Galal Yafai and ­Lauren Price led the way last time as GB claimed six medals in Tokyo.READ MORE OLYMPICS NEWSNicola Adams won gold in Rio with Joe Joyce denied a title by scandalous judging that later cost the IBA its job of running boxing for the IOC.There was a golden hat-trick at London 2012 through Adams, Luke Campbell and Anthony Joshua.But the path paved by amateur pioneers like Audley Harrison, Amir Khan and James DeGale has crumbled.It seems unlikely performance director Rob McCracken will remain at the helm.Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut it is not British boxing that is desperate for reform — it is the entire amateur code of the sport.Boxing could be binned for 2028 in Los Angeles if a replacement body cannot be found to run the event.GB’s super-heavyweights The IBA was stripped of recognition by the IOC in 2023.That came after professor Richard McLaren reported “significant” and “rampant” manipulation of results among 77 Rio bouts the IBA oversaw.Umar Kremlev, a Russian pal of Vladimir Putin, was elected president in 2022 and promised a revolution.But a sponsorship deal with Gazprom and throwing cash around the unpaid ranks has raised alarm bells.Any talented boxer who watched the robbery Joyce suffered in 2016 or the suspiciously harsh decisions in Paris could be forgiven for ditching their own Olympic dream.Because even if Orie had got the nod over Davit Chaloyan, he looked nailed on to lose to Uzbekistan’s ­Bakhodir Jalolov — a pro with an unbeaten 14-fight record who is still allowed to clean up at amateur events.It is no surprise that British heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma, 19, and super-lightweight Adam Azim, 22, ditched the vest and headguard to make a living out of the sport.Undefeated heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma opted against pursuing Olympic goldCredit: RexAs did super-lightweight prospect Adam AzimCredit: PAAnd yet the amateur code — and the Olympics specifically — is supposed to be the sport’s pinnacle.Joshua, Oleksandr Usyk and Vasyl Lomachenko will all tell you their gold medals mean more than every belt and pound note banked since.Britain’s lack of success this week seems to say more about the state of the sport than the form of our crop.Far more worrying than a disappointing medal haul is the feeling younger stars may be better off out of amateur boxing.READ MORE SUN STORIESEspecially our women since the IOC allowed two athletes with male DNA to fight in Paris.Boxing’s toughest opponent right now is itself. More

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      Inside Chelsea’s pre-season camp after Enzo Fernandez racism storm as Enzo Maresca lifts lid on clear-the-air talks

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      CHELSEA hope they have drawn a line under the Enzo Fernandez race row after he rejoined the group.The players are putting on a united front — publicly at least — and seem prepared to accept it was an incredibly foolish mistake by a young star.Maresca insists he is Chelsea are a happy campCredit: GettyEnzo Fernandez returned to Chelsea training todayCredit: GettyIt comes after Enzo Fernandez sung a racist and transphobic chant aimed at the French national teamCredit: Instagram @enzojfernandezWesley Fofana, Renato Veiga, Reece James, Josh-Kofi Acheampong, Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell train in CaliforniaCredit: GettyBut the initial reaction, as well as the fallout in Argentina and France, suggests it is something that cannot be solved with a quick chat and donation to a good cause.While most within the squad have accepted that things will be back to normal, sources claim there was still an awkward air as the group trained again for the first time.For new boss Enzo Maresca, that will have been expected and it could have been a far worse reunion.The Italian has made a concerted effort to keep spirits high.READ MORE ON CHELSEAAfter arriving in Atlanta on Saturday night following their 4-1 friendly defeat by Celtic in Ohio, the squad were treated to a sushi night in Buckhead — the area of the city where their plush hotel is based.Wandering around St Regis — where rooms start at $659, or £515, per night — there remains a happy families vibe, nothing to see here.The manager and players are moving on and the club have wound up an internal probe, with Fernandez’s donation to an anti-discrimination charity effectively seen as a fine. Yet Fifa chiefs are still investigating the video of the racist chant — which could eventually lead to an FA ban — as well as considering a legal complaint from the French Football Association.Most read in FootballWesley Fofana condemned Fernandez’s ‘uninhibited racism’Credit: GettyMaresca insists Chelsea are a happy campBy Jack RosserENZO MARESCA insists Chelsea are a happy camp  after  clear-the-air talks as Enzo Fernandez joined the squad in America.Fernandez trained with  Blues on Monday for the first time since sparking a racism storm during Copa America celebrations.The 23-year-old midfield star  filmed himself and other  Argentina players  singing a racist chant about France’s black players. Maresca, captain Reece James and French pair Wesley Fofana and Axel Disasi were among a small group who met Fernandez —  before he addressed all the  team  to apologise.Fofana had previously hit out at the “uninhibited racism” displayed by the midfielder but has since deleted that social media post.Chelsea  concluded their own investigation, resulting in the player donating to an anti-discrimination charity which the club will match.Boss Maresca said: “We all feel very comfortable, very good, as Enzo is back. He had a chat  with all of us just to clarify there were no bad intentions and the lads all accepted that.“Since yesterday’s session, everything was like before in terms of they were all together, all speaking, all laughing. Normal situation.”Asked about the meeting,  Maresca added: “It was between me, Enzo, and a few players to  just clarify the situation.“There is nothing more to add. There is not any mystery behind it. We all make mistakes. We have to be good to apologise as sometimes we struggle even to apologise. Enzo apologised already four or five times.“They  all accepted it. Everyone is speaking with each other, everyone is laughing.“This is exactly what I expected because I knew there was never any bad intentions and they are all  good people. But all of us, sometimes we make mistakes.“The meeting was between Enzo, some team-mates, Wes  Fofana was there.“They spoke with each other. It is normal sometimes that  the first reaction is not always  good when they argue, the first interaction is not good.“But thinking about it a little bit, day after day, you can  understand there was not any bad intention.”Meanwhile Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta fired France to an Olympic quarter-final with Argentina on Friday.It comes less than three  weeks after Fernandez and Co’s vile chanting about the French.Mateta scored as the hosts beat New Zealand 3-0.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThis is not something that will be so easily swept under the carpet.Maresca was tossed a grenade a few weeks into the job by their £106million midfield man’s behaviour.Enzo Maresca’s tactical overhaul at ChelseaFernandez posted a video of him and his Argentina team-mates singing a vile song about the French team following Copa America glory.While Maresca started on the front foot, getting players around the table with Fernandez, 23, to clear the air, the ex-Leicester boss will have to keep on top of things in the coming days and weeks.Chelsea’s pre-season tourHere is a look at Chelsea’s full tour of the USA:RESULTSChelsea 2 Wrexham 2 – July 24Chelsea 1 Celtic 4 – July 27FIXTURESChelsea vs Club America – July 31 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GeorgiaChelsea vs Manchester City – August 3 – Ohio Stadium in Columbus, OhioChelsea vs Real Madrid – August 6 – Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North CarolinaGotham FC vs Chelsea Women – August 19 – Red Bull Arena, Harrison, New JerseyChelsea Women vs Arsenal Women – August 25 – Audi Field, Washington DCDefender Levi Colwill said: “We’re a team. We moved forward together and that is what we are going to do.“Everything that has happened stays between us. I am really excited to get to work and that we have a really good season.“We all know Enzo is a good person and works well for the team.”The hope will be that, once the Premier League season is underway, the focus moves on and other things become more important.But a poor start on the pitch can easily open up any old wounds and rifts in a dressing room.Players felt Fernandez was being heartfelt when he apologised in person — following on from his public statement and personal messages over WhatsApp before flying in to join the pre-season tour.But it is hard to imagine the likes of Blues defender Wesley Fofana, who called out the “uninhibited racism” from his team-mate, will be able to move on quite so quickly.Maresca has passed his initial test by coping with the first of what will no doubt be a few crises.But, for many, there will still be a sense of wait and see around just how warmly Fernandez is welcomed back — not only by team-mates but by Chelsea fans and rival supporters, too.READ MORE SUN STORIESYou can be sure those in the away end at Stamford Bridge this season will be ready to revive this time and again across the season.Chelsea and Maresca will hope that is as far as it goes.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaENZO MARESCA is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi. 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