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      F1 hit by travel chaos with teams left without CARS days before Chinese Grand Prix as FIA release statement

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      FORMULA ONE teams have been hit by travel chaos days before the Chinese Grand Prix after technical issues in Melbourne.Several teams including McLaren, Red Bull, Mercedes, Aston Martin and Williams have been hit by the problem, leaving them without their cars for the second race of the season, according to F1 insider Kym Illman.Teams have been hit by travel chaos before the Chinese Grand PrixCredit: SplashTeams affected include Williams, McLaren, Mercedes, Red Bull and Aston MartinCredit: AFPWith the quick turnaround between the Australian and Chinese Grand Prix, teams would have expected car parts to arrive on Monday evening or Tuesday morning after being shipped out on Sunday.However, technical issues have delayed the arrival of some car parts.Illman reports the teams were told their parts would arrive at 10am on Wednesday morning, but have now been told they will not receive them until 4 or 5pm.This means that teams have seen around 30 hours of their preparation time to get the cars ready for the first session of the weekend wiped out.READ MORE IN F1The freight transport issues have also hit the sport’s tyre supplier, Pirelli.The FIA released a statement ahead of the weekend – which will see the season’s first Sprint Race – providing a one-time-only concession on the curfew of the fitting schedule of cars.It said: “Due to the logistical challenges for the official tyre supplier resulting from delays in freight arrival, specially the requirement to revise the fitting schedule for Wednesday, the following concessions will be made.”On the Wednesday, and for this event only, the curfew period will be reduced by a period of five and a half (5.5) hours for a maximum of six (6) operational personnel for the sole purpose of tyre preparations post tyre fitting from the tyre supplier.”Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIllman reports that members of the crew have been waiting around in hotels away from the track, effectively with the days off, as they wait for the parts to arrive.Delays in car parts arriving are not uncommon in F1 but, with a tight schedule to fit into, time is of the essence if the issue is not to impact heavily on the likes of Lando Norris or Max Verstappen.Behind the scenes in Australia GP paddock including F1 star Lewis Hamilton’s new Ferrari baseLewis Hamilton’s Ferrari team were not mentioned in the report but could have still seen parts delayed. Hamilton was set for a meeting with his engineer this week to better understand each other after the Brit had an X-rated blast down his radio following a Ferrari strategy blunder.Free Practice 1 for the race weekend will commence at 3:30am UK time on Friday.Sprint qualifying will then start at 7:30am.Saturday will see the Sprint Race start at 3am before qualifying for the feature race begins at 7am.The lights then go out for Sunday’s feature race at 7am.Norris took the chequered flag in Melbourne with Verstappen second and George Russell third as six cars crashed out of a chaotic wet race. More

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      New £34m Man City star Abdukodir Khusanov looks emotional as he’s gifted £135k Mercedes on return to Uzbekistan

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      MANCHESTER CITY ace Abdukodir Khusanov looked emotional after being gifted a lavish new car by his compatriots.Khusanov, 21, joined City during the January transfer window following a £34million deal with Lens.Manchester City star Abdukodir Khusanov received a lavish gift from his compatriotsCredit: RedditMan City star Khusanov was gifted a Mercedes-Benz G-ClassCredit: RedditKhusanov got emotional after his compatirots’ touching gestureCredit: RedditKhusanov returned to Uzbekistan for the international breakCredit: RedditThe centre-back has already amassed eight appearances and a goal under Man City manager Pep Guardiola.And now the Uzbekistan international is back in his homeland for the international break.Khusanov’s return was filmed by some of his compatriots, who had a very special surprise for the hometwon hero.The defender’s move to the Etihad effectively makes him the most famous Uzbek footballer of all time.Read More on FootballAnd his fellow countrymen wanted to honour his representation at elite football.So Khusanov was gifted a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which is rated at about £135,000.The player looked emotional on camera with his fans’ touching gesture.The City star expressed his gratitude and took his brand new ride for a spin.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKhusanov had some very humble beginnings in Uzbekistan as he cut his teeth in Bunyodkor’s academy before moving to Belarusian outfit Energetik-BGU Minsk, which ultimately led to his big break at Lens.Khusanov is now set to lead the national team in their two upcoming World Cup qualifiers.Man City sign Abdukodir Khusanov in £34m deal with ‘tank’ as quick as Usain Bolt roped in to bolster Pep’s defenceUzbekistan will be facing Kyrgyzstan and Iran this month before the player returns to City, who are looking to seal a place in the top five ahead of the last few fixtures of the season.Khusanov joined Man City in January after a £34m deal with LensCredit: Getty More

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      Meet the stunning F1 WAGs stealing the show in 2025 – from pro golfer to racing star & top model who dated Kardashian ex

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      AS the Formula 1 aces took to the grid this weekend, some fans were driven to distraction by the bevvy of beauties in the paddocks.The drivers’ glamorous wives and girlfriends  tried to keep their cool at the Australian Grand Prix as the mercury hit 32C and their partners burned rubber.At the Australian Grand Prix the F1 Wags stole the showCredit: GettyAnd with a host of rookies on the track alongside veterans Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, there were some unfamiliar faces on the sidelines, too.American Hannah St John, 21, was all smiles at Albert Park Circuit, in Melbourne, as she cheered on Red Bull Racing’s rising star Liam Lawson. She joined Scot Rebecca Donaldson, 28, the girlfriend of Carlos Sainz, who was making his Williams’ debut after four seasons at Ferrari.And the Wags also live life in the fast lane, with impressive careers of their own including as a professional golfer, model and racing driver.read more on formula oneHere, Thea Jacobs takes a look at the F1 stars’ stunning other halves, who are in pole position to steal the limelight from their men . . . Isabella Bernardini & Gabriel BortoletoYOUNG love is at the races this year, in the shape of Team Sauber’s newbie driver Gabriel, 20, and his girlfriend Isabella, who is just a year older.The couple are high school sweethearts, having got together when he was 16.Isabella Bernardini is currently thought to be studying computer science at Eindhoven in the NetherlandsCredit: GettyIsabella and Gabriel Bortoleto are high school sweetheartsCredit: AFPMeet F1 newbie Liam Lawson’s stunning girlfriend Hannah St. John, who is also a model and medical student Isabella is currently thought to be studying computer science at Eindhoven in the Netherlands.Most read in MotorsportThe couple aren’t afraid to show off their romance online, posing together for a cute New Year’s snap in which she perched on his knee, and sharing pictures of his Formula 2 races last year.Brazilian Isabella flew in to watch her beau make his F1 debut, and she looked stunning in a white mini-skirt and blouse combo.Sadly, Gabriel was not placed in his first race of the season – but he was surely a winner with Isabella.KELLY, 36, is in a relationship with Max , 27, the four-time Formula One World Drivers’ Champion.She is also racing royalty, as the daughter of three-time winner Nelson Piquet, 72.Kelly Piquet is the daughter of three-time winner Nelson PiquetCredit: GettyKelly is expecting her first child with Max VerstappenCredit: RexSince she started dating Red Bull racer Max in 2020, the Formula E social media manager has been a regular at the grand prix.But the heavily pregnant model missed out on this weekend’s race to attend an event at swanky restaurant Kaspia London, in Mayfair.It will be Kelly and Max’s first baby together. She also has a daughter with Russian driver Daniil Kvyat.Francisca Gomes & Pierre GaslyPORTUGUESE Francisca, 22, has been in a relationship with Alpine’s French driver Pierre Gasly since 2022.She posted a sweet black- and-white snap of the pair kissing after his first outing of the season and revealed they had relaxed with a plush Italian meal the night before.Francisca Gomes has built a career as a model and influencerCredit: GettyPierre Gasly has dubbed Francisca his ‘lucky charm’Credit: AFPBeing in the paddock isn’t a new experience for “Kika” either as her father is former F1 driver Goncalo Gomes, 49.And thanks to her mum being TV presenter Maria Cerqueira Gomes, Francisca isn’t easily fazed by the limelight.She has built a career as a model and influencer, which allows her to follow Pierre, 29, around the world for his races.Which is lucky for the driver as he dubbed her his “lucky charm.”Not too lucky though, as he only took 11th place on Sunday.Eliska Babickova & Andrea Kimi AntonelliELISKA and boyfriend Andrea, 18, clearly love life in the fast lane – as they’re both professional racing drivers.She is more likely to be seen trackside this year as Andrea has been promoted to the F1 circuit and snatched fourth place for Mercedes Down Under.Eliska Babickova was the first woman to be crowned ­Italian champion of the OK karting classCredit: AlamyEliska and Andrea Kimi Antonelli celebrated a year together in OctoberCredit: AFPEliksa – the first woman to be crowned ­Italian champion of the OK karting class – will understand the nerves and determination involved when it comes to racing.Outside the sport, she has a YouTube channel with her sisters, fellow drivers Petra and Tereza, where they document their lives.Eliska and Andrea celebrated a year together in October, and while he is off racing all over the world, she is finishing high school and plans to study economics at uni.Carmen Montero Mundt & George RussellAS fans of Netflix documentary Drive To Survive will know, George loves nothing more than showing off his stunning 26-year-old Spanish girlfriend Carmen.She appears to be a good omen too, as 27-year-old British Mercedes ace George took third place in the Aussie Grand Prix at the weekend.Carmen Montero Mundt recently returned to studies after a finance job in LondonCredit: InstagramCarmen and George Russell have been together since 2020Credit: AFPThe couple, who have been together since 2020, live in Monaco.Carmen recently returned to studies after a finance job in London, but her life is worlds away from her childhood in Spain.She said: “I always wanted to work in finance. “My family struggled financially during the global crisis, and that determined what I wanted to do from a very young age.”Hannah St John & Liam LawsonHER rookie boyfriend Liam may have endured a nightmare start to his Red Bull career, but Hannah looked like a seasoned Wag as she cheered him on from the sidelines.Wearing this black halter-neck dress to the race, she later changed into a striped blue two-piece to console the 23-year-old Kiwi driver after he swerved into the wall and crashed out in Melbourne.Hannah St John graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Biomedical SciencesCredit: Avalon.redHannah was there to support Liam Lawson as he began his Red Bull careerCredit: APHannah, 23, graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She also works as a model and influencer, with 40,000 followers and partnerships including Bvlgari.The beauty flew to New Zealand last year to meet Liam’s family and followed him around the world in his last season as a Formula 2 driver.She was also there to support him last year when he replaced Daniel   Ricciardo for the last six races of the F1 season.Alexandra Saint Mleux & Charles LeclercSHE has only been dating Ferrari ace Charles since 2023, but that hasn’t stopped Alexandra winning over legions of fans and becoming the second-most followed Formula 1 Wag on social media.The Italian influencer – who has a degree in Art History and a social media account dedicated to her favourite pieces of work – is often seen trackside cheering on her boyfriend, who placed eighth yesterday.Alexandra Saint Mleux is the second-most followed Formula 1 Wag on social mediaCredit: GettyCharles Leclerc has been dating Alexandra since 2023Credit: GettyShe has also started carving out a career as a model, and last month appeared in adverts for Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand.Alexandra, who has more than 1.6million followers on Instagram, often posts snaps of her pet dachshund, holidays and outfits, leading Tatler to brand her the “most stylish woman in F1” – quite the accolade.Rebecca Donaldson & Carlos SainzSCOTTISH beauty Rebecca did a few laps of the showbiz circuit before she shacked up with Williams driver Carlos in 2023.Now an established model, she started out in pageants and appeared on Britain’s Next Top Model on TV, and was linked to Kourtney Kardashian’s ex, Scott Disick.Rebecca Donaldson appeared on Britain’s Next Top Model on TVCredit: RexCarlos Sainz started dating Rebecca in 2023Credit: EPAThese days she is often spotted cheering on 30-year-old Carlos, who she has dated since 2023, and was seen gracing the paddock this weekend in a body-hugging grey dress.During her catwalk career, 28-year-old Rebecca has been a cover girl for Vogue and Marie Claire, and in October 2020 she launched her own activewear range, Muse.Sara Pagliaroli & Lance StrollVICTORIA’S Secret Angel model Sara and 26-year-old Aston Martin race ace Lance made their public debut as a couple at the 2021 premiere of 007 blockbuster No Time To Die.And with her bombshell good looks, the gorgeous 29-year-old Italian could pass for a Bond Girl herself.Sara Pagliaroli started modelling at 17Credit: InstagramLance Stroll and Sara made their public debut as a couple at the 2021 premiere of No Time To DieCredit: AFPSara started modelling at 17 and has worked with brands including Replay Jeans and Adria Beachwear.In 2020 she launched her own jewellery brand called Blue Lemon Jewels, and she is currently the face of clothing brand Yamamay.Lily Muni He & Alexander AlbonLILY, 25, might be known to some as the girlfriend of F1 driver Alexander, 28, but she is a sports star in her own right.The stunning brunette is a professional golfer who has been playing since the age of five and currently takes part in the US-based LPGA Tour.Lily Muni He is a professional golfer who has been playing since the age of fiveCredit: GettyAlexander Albon and Lily had their first date on a golf course in 2019Credit: AFPLily wasn’t there to cheer on ­Alexander as he took fifth place in Oz, but she showed her ­support on Instagram.It was F1 that brought the pair together as they began their relationship after she watched Netflix series Drive To Survive. They had their first date on a golf course in 2019.While Lily travels the globe playing golf, she does find time to cheer on Alexander during races – such as at Silverstone in 2023, when she was spotted in the paddock.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlexander repays the favour and has been seen ­supporting her on the green, posting about it on his own social media.These two are well on their way to taking pole ­position as a true sporting power ­couple.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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      ‘Saw him and screamed’ – Fans stunned after spotting under-fire Man Utd boss Sir Jim Ratcliffe ‘hiding’ at Australian GP

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE stunned viewers after popping up on TV screens at Formula One’s season opener in Australia.The Ineos chief was at the Albert Park race over the weekend with the Mercedes F1 team, which Ratcliffe owns a third of.Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in attendance at the F1 Australia Grand Prix this weekendCredit: GettyThe Ineos chief owns a third share in MercedesCredit: GettyMercedes celebrated a podium with George Russell while rookie team-mate Kimi Antonelli finished P4Credit: RexBut Ratcliffe has had a nightmare week dealing with Man UtdCredit: GettyThe chaotic race was won by McLaren’s Lando Norris while Lewis Hamilton was left fuming at his new Ferrari team. But there was delight for Mercedes as George Russell scored a podium by finishing third and rookie Kimi Antonelli produced a strong recovery drive to go from P16 to finish P4 on his debut.While Ratcliffe would have been celebrating the success of the team, who now sit joint top in the F1 constructors’ championship, it was a far cry from the week he has had dealing with another of his teams. The British billionaire, 70, has had a nightmare week following a series of interviews he gave on Monday regarding his investment in Manchester United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRatcliffe took a 27.7 per cent share last February, but his first year of managing the Red Devils has been overshadowed by controversial decisions and poor performances on the pitch.Man Utd sit 14th in the Premier League table and have only one realistic chance of playing in Europe next season via victory in the Europa League.Off the pitch, the club are £1billion in debt, including £300millon in transfer fees owed for players.Unpopular decisions have been made by the new club hierarchy brought in by Ratcliffe, ranging from the removal of a £40,000 donation to the Former Players Association, the sacking of 250 staff last summer, with up to another 200 set to follow, and the removal of concessionary pricing for tickets.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHe also blasted the squad as “not good enough” and addressed mistakes he and the management team have made, including the sackings of Erik ten Hag and Dan Ashworth.That set of interviews came the day before Man Utd announced plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium.Lewis Hamilton blasts ‘big opportunity missed’ after Ferrari strategy blunder at F1 Australia Grand PrixAnd yesterday another Ratcliffe interview was released in which he planted the blame for the club’s demise at the feet of Ed Woodward and Richard Arnold rather than the much-maligned majority owners, the Glazers.Ratcliffe admitted if he got the same level of abuse the American owners got he would consider quitting his role, while he insisted the Glazers were “decent people”.Reacting to his appearance in the Melbourne F1 paddock, one social media user said: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe is hiding in Australia with the F1.”A second said: “Jim Ratcliffe in the Mercedes garage instead of building Zippos circus for Utd.”A third said: “Saw Jim Ratcliffe appear on the screen on the f1 and screamed.”Man Utd take on Leicester this evening, and Ratcliffe will be hoping another one of his sporting investments can have a good day.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      ‘I’m about to cry’ – Fans praise Lewis Hamilton’s dad for classy gesture as he consoles F1 rookie after debut crash

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      FANS fell in love with Lewis Hamilton’s dad Anthony after spotting his classy gesture during the Australia Grand Prix.The Formula One season opener was hit by chaos as six cars crashed out in the changeable conditions.Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar crashed out of the formation lap of the Australian Grand PrixCredit: ReutersBut Anthony Hamilton was there to comfort the tearful 20-year-old after the incidentCredit: X @SkySportsF1Fans said they were going to cry at the heartfelt gestureCredit: X @SkySportsF1Hadjar blasted his own ’embarrassing’ error but said he appreciated the gestureCredit: GettyThis included Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar, who after impressing with P11 in qualifying ended up crashing out on the formation lap.The 20-year-old was visibly distraught after the crash and burst into tears trackside.But when he made it back to the paddock Anthony Hamilton was there to console him. Hamilton Snr could be seen giving the youngster, two years younger than Lewis was when he made his debut, a hug as they then carried on walking.READ MORE IN F1Spotting the interaction on social media, one fan said: “No way… Honestly I’m about to cry… sorry for him..Anthony Hamilton speaking to Hadjar.”A second said: “Papa Hamilton comforting Hadjar, I’m going to cry.”A third added: “Man that made me cry… Mr. Anthony Hamilton, what a kind soul you have.”Another said: “Seeing Isack cry while Anthony Hamilton comforts him is making me wanna bawl my eyes out.”Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHadjar is known to be a huge fan of Hamilton, and revealed he appreciated the gesture. He revealed the words of wisdom Hamilton delivered to him, saying: “Just keep your head high. I think he knows what tough times are and I think he sees a rookie putting it in the wall on not even lap one, he knows how tough it feels.”He came to comfort me, I think it was a really nice gesture from him. But nevertheless it feels really hard and I feel really sorry for the team.”Lewis Hamilton blasts ‘big opportunity missed’ after Ferrari strategy blunder at F1 Australia Grand PrixHamilton Snr was reported as saying: “When I saw what happened to Isack my heart fell. I went to him and treated him like a father.”Despite the brilliant gesture, Hadjar was bitterly disappointed with his own performance, blasting the mistake as “embarrassing”.“I just lost the rear-end of the car, these cars in these conditions, they snap so fast, and it’s unsavable, couldn’t get the grip back.“I knew it was going to be tricky, on the laps to the grid I knew it’d be tricky. I’m sorry for the team right now, my close ones watching the race… it’s just embarrassing.”The chaotic race Down Under was eventually won by Lando Norris, whose drive was described as one of his “all-time greats” by Sky Sports F1’s Martin Brundle.Norris had lost the lead after going off track but managed to salvage his race to edge out Max Verstappen.Meanwhile, Ferrari suffered a disaster as they pitted their two drivers late on and dropped from a double podium to P8 and P10.READ MORE SUN STORIESHamilton was particularly critical of the move, swearing on the radio after saying the team had “missed a big opportunity”.The stars will go again in a week at the Chinese Grand Prix. More

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      ‘All-time greats’ – Lando Norris pips Max Verstappen in epic Australian GP after SIX drivers KO’d and Hamilton blunder

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      LANDO NORRIS won a thrilling season opener in Melbourne after SIX drivers were KO’d and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton gamble went horribly wrong.The McLaren driver held onto the lead by the skin of his teeth as Max Verstappen pulled it out the bag to finish a whisker behind him in second. Lando Norris won a chaotic Australian Grand PrixCredit: GettyNorris celebrated the win with his mumCredit: AFPNorris celebrates following his thrilling winCredit: EPANorris finished just ahead of VerstappenCredit: EPAThe wet conditions saw six cars crash outCredit: GettyLewis Hamilton had a Ferrari debut to forget as he finished P10Credit: AFPHamilton was fuming with his race engineerCredit: GettyThe other McLaren, Oscar Piastri, suffered a nightmare ending having been hot on team-mate Norris’ heels throughout before spinning off the track and onto the grass with 11 laps to go. It meant Verstappen overtook him and Piastri finished in ninth after starting the race in second after a front row lock-out for reigning Constructors’ champs McLaren.After the Piastri chaos, Lewis Hamilton was leading the race on his debut for Ferrari as the Italian team gambled by not pitting him and his team-mate Charles Leclerc.  But it did not pay off as Verstappen pitted and hunted them down on fresh tyres, forcing them into the pits for a changeover. READ MORE IN F1The fuming seven-time world champion gave his race engineer Riccardo Adami a tongue lashing, swearing on his radio after Ferrari dropped down the positions and he finished in ninth while Leclerc settled for eighth. At one point Adami was trying to give Hamilton information about DRS but he says on his team radio: “Leave it guys, leave it. I’m learning the car as I go mate, just leave me to it with the DRS. It’s not an issue.”Earlier on in the race, Hamilton asked: “Tell me where I’m slow I’m having a hard time.”British Mercedes driver George Russell made it onto the podium in third and Alex Albon came in fourth in his Williams. Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSTo rub salt in the wounds for Hamilton, Lance Stroll also finished ahead of him in sixth for Aston Martin. SIX drivers did not finish the drama-filled race, including Isack Hadjar, Jack Doohan, Carlos Sainz, Fernando Alonso, Gabriel Bortoleto and Liam Lawson. ‘Shock to the system’ – Lewis Hamilton makes surprise admission about progress in Ferrari car ahead of wet Australian GPRB rookie Hadjar crashed on the formation lap before he even started and was left crying with his head in his hands before Lewis Hamilton’s dad comforted him. “Ooof, little bit of pressure! Well done boys, beautifully handled.”Executed to the second. One second later and we were done. Well done everyone, congrats, amazing way to start the year.”Sky Sports F1 pundit Martin Brundle called it one of Norris’ “all-time great” drives.After his disappointing debut, Hamilton said: “It was very tricky and went a lot worse than I thought it would go. The car was really, really hard to drive today.”For me, I’m just grateful I kept it out of the wall because that’s where it wanted to go most of the time.”A lot to take from it and just getting acclimatised with the new power unit in the wet conditions.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The settings it requires are different, and a different way of driving and a different set-up on the steering wheel.”I hung out as long as I could, got in the lead at one point. Just the guidance with how much more rain was coming, was missing there, so I think we missed out.” More

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      Every F1 rule change revealed ahead of new season with fastest lap bonus point scrapped and swearing sanctions

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      FORMULA ONE is going to look a little different in 2025 – after a host of new rules.The new F1 season is set to be one of the closest title fights in modern history when it kick starts in Melbourne on Sunday.This season is the latest before a major change in regulationsDefending champion Max Verstappen will begin his F1 title defence this weekendBefore lights out at the Australian Grand Prix this weekend, several key technical and regulatory tweaks will come into effect.Most are in response to controversies that occurred last season, before the major overhaul to technical regulations from 2026.Here SunSport runs you through the main ones that are worth knowing about.Goodbye fastest lap bonus pointSince 2019, a driver that finished in the top 10 of a race was eligible for an extra championship point if they set the fastest lap.READ MORE F1 NEWSBut this rule – the only change to the points system- has been removed in arguably the biggest of the changes introduced.While the bonus point had led to drivers pushing in the closing stages of races, there had been controversy over teams making late pit stops or attempts to block rivals.This was notable when drivers outside the top 10 posted the fastest lap, which took the bonus away from title contenders. Last season, Daniel Ricciardo denied Lando Norris an extra point for the fastest lap of the race at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.Most read in MotorsportRicciardo was driving for Red Bull’s junior team Visa Cash App RB.Norris was locked in a tight fight with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen for the drivers title – which can be lost and won with a single point.Daniel Ricciardo pitted to change to soft tyres and go for the fastest lap time in SingaporeCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHeavier cars and cooling systemsIf you believe the current F1 cars are too big, we have some bad news for you.Car mass is up 2kg from 798kg to 800kg this season, which combines both cars and drivers. The change is due to the minimum driver weight having been increased by 2kg from 80kg to 82kg, which partially accounts for the taller drivers such as George Russell and Esteban Ocon.Driver weight includes their helmet, race suit and shoes. Teams will also be required to fit a mandated driver cooling system in the event of a heat hazard.The hazard would be declared when the temperature is forecast to be 31 degrees or above during a sprint or Grand Prix race.Car weights will be increased by 2kg for practice, qualifying and sprint qualifying when cooling systems are required.Russell was heartbreakingly stripped of his Belgian GP win last season, when his car was found underweight after it was drained of fuel during the usual post-race checks.Car mass is up 2kg from 798kg to 800kg this seasonRed Bull’s Christian Horner gives low down on car before F1 season kicks off with Australian Grand Prix Mini-DRS and flexible wings One of the main technical points that arose during the 2024 campaign was McLaren’s rear-wing design.At high speeds the rear wing of the MCL38 tilted backward under heavy aerodynamic load, creating a gap in the win that was termed a “mini-DRS.”While McLaren was instructed to alter their design in September, the FIA has tightened up the technical regulations regarding both the rear wing and the Drag Reduction System (DRS).The FIA have tightened technical regulations regarding the rear wing and Drag Reduction System.Under the new regulations outlined in Article 3.10 of the Technical Regulations, the minimum gap in the rear wing has decreased from 10-15mm to 9.4-13mm. The FIA will introduce stricter front wing regulations to come into force at the Spanish GP in June – much to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko’s dismay.The FIA tightened technical regulations regarding the rear wing and Drag Reduction SystemF1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam LawsonFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel BortoletoAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack HadjarHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban OconNo swearingDrivers face possible one-month BANS if they repeatedly swear or criticise the governing body.The controversial move is prompted by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s determination to cut out bad language.Verstappen was the first big victim of this clampdown after he used X-rated language during a press conference at the Singapore GP.The four-time world champion was ordered do “community service” and spend time with grassroot competitors in Rwanda.Under the new guidelines, a first offence would result in a £33,750 fine, a second offence £67,4300 and a suspended one-month ban. A third offence would bring a £100,000 fine, a one-month ban and the deduction of championship points.F1 personnel could also be punished for causing moral injury or loss to the FIA; incitement to violence or hatred; political, religious or personal statements that do not align with FIA neutrality.Failure to comply with FIA instructions at official ceremonies is also punishable.Max Verstappen was not impressed after being told off for swearing at a press conferenceMohammed Ben Sulayem wants to cut out bad languageTwo-stop race in MonacoF1 has made Monaco a two-stop minimum Grand Prix in bid to improve racing.It’s mainly in response to drivers – namely Hamilton’s- complaints last year after an early red flag allowed a free tyre change.This meant they adhered to the regulated stop before completing the circuit without further changes.A lack of overtaking at the iconic street circuit has been criticised for affecting the spectacle of the event.Tweaks to qualifying based on championship positionThis is to cover the situation in Brazil last year when qualifying was touch and go due to bad weather.The forecast of more heavy rain from mid-afternoon in Sao Paulo led to the decision to bring the race time forward.That saw qualifying moved to an early start time because there must be a minimum of four hours between the end of qualifying and the start of the race.So, the grid for the race will be defined by the drivers championship position, IF qualifying cannot take place.This is to cover off the situation in Brazil last year if qualifying could not have gone ahead due to bad weatherCredit: RexMore practice for rookies and test timeThe mandatory FP1 running for rookie drivers has been expanded for 2025.Each team will be required to run four young drivers free practice sessions.This is an increase over the previous requirement of two.Teams will choose which weekends their rookies will participate in, with the finale in Abu Dhabi often being a favourite.During the season, teams have a limited allowance of testing of previous cars – which are aged between two and four years old. READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will not be allowed to exceed 1,000km of running in total.Teams can only have one of these cars available to run during a test at any time. 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      ‘It’s madness’ – Red Bull advisor demands rule change hours before F1 season kicks off with Australian Grand Prix

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      RED BULL advisor Helmut Marko has furiously demanded that a mid-season rule change be SCRAPPED hours before 2025 campaign kicks off.The new campaign gets underway in Melbourne with the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday, with practice starting on Friday.Helmut Marko has furiously demanded that a mid-season rule change be scrappedCredit: GettyFlexible wings are always a point of contention during an F1 seasonCredit: RexMarko is incensed over the governing body’s plan to introduce stricter stress tests for F1 car front wings in the MIDDLE of the season.Aerodynamic regulations have always been a battleground where teams push the boundaries of what is legal and find creative ways to squeeze more performance out of their cars. One such area of innovation has been flexible wings – parts that remain rigid enough to pass static FIA tests, but bend during high-speed racing.Teams argue that the flexibility reduces drag on straights, improving top speed, while maintaining high downforce in corners.READ MORE ON F1The FIA have introduced stricter front wing regulations to come into force at the Spanish Grand Prix in June, in answer to the technical debate. Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, Marko raged: “It’s madness.”Either the new rule applies from the start of the season or not at all.”It’s insane. It’s virtually impossible to do a comprehensive inspection of the bend. The teams have much more manpower than the FIA.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“Now everyone except the smaller teams have built a wing that bends. “It’s crazy that they can throw them away in the middle of the season.”Hollywood star Idris Elba invests in brand new Formula E team as he reveals ‘deep and personal’ reason for decision But the Red Bull advisor did find one silver lining for his team as everybody on the grid will be affected by the change.He added: “No one else handles a shaky car as well as Max Verstappen.”Most teams have already built their 2024 cars with some degree of front wing flexibility within the previous FIA guidelines.The mid-season change will upset strategies as they will have already designed their cars to meet the existing rules.Meanwhile, this comes after Red Bull themselves complained about rear wings ahead of the start of the season.As a result, rear wing tests will be tightened immediately – starting in Melbourne on Sunday. And Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari faces a thorough FIA investigation, as does Lando Norris’ McLaren.Elsewhere, the minimum driver weight allowance has been increased from 80kg to 82kg and a driver cooling kit has been introduced.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe technical regulations remain the same, so most teams will have an evolution in car design from 2024.Meanwhile, everybody will have half an eye on 2026 when the cars and engines will change completely.F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam LawsonFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel BortoletoAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack HadjarHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon More