More stories

  • in

    Ex-F1 champion Damon Hill questions decision to sack Michael Masi after Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen controversy

    FORMER Formula One world champion Damon Hill ‘feels sorry’ for sacked race director Michael Masi – and is unconvinced he should have lost his job.Masi was handed his P45 last month following his controversial handling of the final race of last season.
    Michael Masi was sacked as F1’s race director in FebruaryCredit: Getty
    Damon Hill believes the decision was harsh and could have been avoidedCredit: Rex
    He failed to follow strict safety car regulations, giving the green light for a last-lap showdown between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
    The Dutchman had been able to pit for fresh soft tyres and close the gap on the seven-time champ to breeze past him and claim the win – and with it his maiden world title.
    The FIA investigated Masi and booted him in place of Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich with the latter expected to act as a deputy with veteran Herbie Blash, who worked with former Race Director Charlie Whiting, returning as a senior advisor.
    But 1996 winner Hill questioned the decision.
    He told the F1 Nation podcast: “Was he necessarily sacrificed?
    “I feel sorry for the guy and we’ve had drivers say so [as well]. They’ve come out and said he did a good job in difficult circumstances.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    “I personally think that the situation and the structure he was expected to operate in was the problem.
    “I’m not saying it was right what happened [in Abu Dhabi], but we could see clearly during the season that confusion was being thrown into decision making and pressure by some of the team bosses.
    “There was also the pressure of those conversations being broadcast.
    “If they fix all that, then I’m not sure they needed to get rid of Michael [Masi].
    “You can also say because of his role in the matter [of the World Championship title], it would have been controversial to keep him on.
    “But not a happy ending to last year, quite honestly, from lots of different perspectives.”

    Masi’s dismissal was also criticised by Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who told talkSPORT he feels Masi has been treated unfairly.
    Verstappen’s boss Horner said: “It’s a difficult one, and it’s the FIA’s business.
    “I think it is harsh, I think he was in a very difficult position last year.
    “We felt a lot of the decisions went against us last year.
    “When you look at what he has at his disposal in terms of resource, compared to what the teams have, it’s such a massive difference.
    “It’s good to hear they are bringing in things like the VAR equivalent and one of the most experienced guys in Herbie Blash.
    There was so much pressure put on the removal of Michael and that’s not rightChristian Horner
    “I just think there was so much pressure put on the removal of Michael and that’s not right. That’s my personal feeling.”
    However, Horner’s conversations with Masi’s successor Freitas will not be made public.
    That is because a change in rules has banned broadcasters from playing the radio interactions between teams and F1 personnel during races.
    Verstappen has penned a new £37million-a-year contract with Red Bull.
    And his title defence begins in less than two weeks at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
    Christian Horner and Max Verstappen were the ones celebrating at the end of the 2021 seasonCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Lewis Hamilton asks Zendaya for role in Euphoria at Paris Fashion Week as F1 star targets acting breakthrough

    LEWIS HAMILTON has revealed that he asked Euphoria star Zendaya if he could appear in season three of the hit show.The seven-time Formula 1 world champion came to Paris Fashion Week and sat alongside the American actress and singer.
    Hamilton was snapped alongside Zendaya at Paris Fashion WeekCredit: Getty
    The pair watched on in the French capital as they enjoyed the showCredit: Reuters
    Hamilton asked Zendaya about featuring in season three of EuphoriaCredit: AP
    And the Formula 1 legend confirmed after the show that he had asked Zendaya about being in the school-based drama.
    Speaking on Instagram, he said: “Thanks for having me @maisonvalentino and sitting me next to Z, asked her if I could be on season 3, those Euphoria kids need a teacher fr [for real].”
    Hamilton has spoken in the past about his dream of becoming an actor.
    He said last year: “I would love to act one day. But I am very conscientious. I like to learn step by step.
    “I had opportunities and I know that I need time to prepare myself. Because I want to be the best. In everything I do I want to be. To do the best I can.
    “If I’m going to make a movie, I’ll go to class, study, and make sure I express my emotions as I should.”
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    Fans of Hamilton and Euphoria could not believe the 37-year-old’s social media post as they went into a frenzy at the possibility of him appearing in the show.
    Alongside the photo of Hamilton and Zendaya, one person said: “How cool would that be – like really?!?!!”
    Another added: “I wasn’t prepared for this photo 🤩 … wait… Lewis in season 3 💜.”
    And a third said: “Petition to have Lewis in season 3.”
    SEASON RETURNS
    Hamilton is preparing to return to the track for the start of the 2022 F1 season later this month.
    The drivers kick things off with the Bahrain Grand Prix – which takes place on March 20.
    And Hamilton is looking to avenge last season’s dramatic finale when he was controversially pipped to the title by Max Verstappen on the last lap of the last race in Abu Dhabi.
    Following the contentious end to the 2021 campaign, race director Michael Masi was sacked following a huge amount of scrutiny surrounding his decision-making.
    And Hamilton has called for this season’s stewards to be as objective as possible.
    He said: “We need to make sure we get non-biased stewards.
    “Race drivers, some are very, very good friends with certain individuals, some travel with certain individuals and tend to take more of a keen liking to some of them.
    “I think people who have no bias and are super central when it comes to making decisions.” More

  • in

    Nikita Mazepin slams Haas for sacking him and accuses F1 team of ‘completely ignoring’ FIA’s ruling on Russian racers

    NIKITA MAZEPIN has slammed Haas for cancelling his contract and accused the Formula One team of ‘completely ignoring’ the FIA’s ruling on Russian racers.Following intense speculation, Haas confirmed today that the driver had been sacked along with title sponsor Uralkali.
    Nikita Mazepin has torn into Haas and accused them of ‘completely ignoring’ the FIA’s ruling on Russian racersCredit: Rex
    Haas announced that they had axed the Russian driver todayCredit: Splash
    It was announced by the FIA earlier this week that the Russian driver would be able to race under a neutral flag this season following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
    He was also banned from driving the British Grand Prix after Motorsport UK blocked all Russian and Belarussian racers from competing.
    Now after his team confirmed that his deal with them has been ripped up, Mazepin tore into his former employers at full throttle.
    The 23-year-old said in a statement: “Dear fans and followers, I am very disappointed to hear that my F1 contract has been terminated.
    “While I understand the difficulties, the ruling from the FIA plus my ongoing willingness to accept the conditions proposed in order to continue were completely ignored, and no process was followed in this unilateral step.
    “To those who have tried to understand, my eternal thanks.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    “I have treasured my time in F1 and genuinely hope we can all be together again in better times.”
    He finished it off by stating that he would have ‘more to say in the coming days’.
    No confirmation of who will replace him at Haas has yet been announced.
    Nikita Mazepin’s father, billionaire oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, has close ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
    The 2022 F1 season is due to get underway with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 20.
    🔵 Read our Russia – Ukraine live blog for the very latest updates More

  • in

    Nikita Mazepin SACKED by F1 team Haas as Russian driver banned from racing under neutral flag after Ukraine war

    NIKITA MAZEPIN has been sacked by his Formula 1 team Haas.It was announced by the FIA earlier this week that the Russian driver would be able to race under a neutral flag this season following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Nikita Mazepin has been axed by F1 team HaasCredit: PA
    Haas have also ended its partnership with Russian potash company UralkaliCredit: Getty
    He has also been banned from driving the British Grand Prix after Motorsport UK blocked all Russian and Belarussian racers from competing.
    Now his team have confirmed that his deal with them has now been ripped up.
    And they have also confirmed that it has ended its partnership with Russian potash company Uralkali.
    A Haas statement read: “Haas F1 team has elected to terminate, with immediate effect, the title partnership of Uralkali, and the driver partnership of Nikita Mazepin.
    “As with the rest of the F1 community, the team is shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and wishes for a swift and peaceful end to the conflict.”
    Nikita Mazepin’s father, billionaire oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, has close ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    This week at an extraordinary meeting led by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the World Motor Sport Council agreed that competitors holding Russian and Belarussian racing licences could still race under an “FIA flag”.
    But Motorsport UK has gone one step further by stopping them, including Mazepin, from competing.
    A Motorsport UK statement read: “No Russian/Belarusian licenced teams are approved to enter motorsport competitions in the UK.
    “No Russian/Belarusian licenced competitors and officials are approved to participate in UK motorsport events.
    “No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (on uniform, equipment and car) to be displayed at Motorsport UK permitted events.
    “The Motorsport UK decision was made in full consultation with the UK Government and national sports governing bodies to ensure that there is a unilateral response to the crisis.”
    The 2022 F1 season is due to get underway with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 20.

    🏁 F1 2022 calendar: practice times, dates and racetrack info More

  • in

    Mercedes boss Toto Wolff takes another swipe at Masi saying axed F1 race director was ‘turned’ by Red Bull ‘bromance’

    TOTO WOLFF claims controversial F1 race director Michael Masi was ‘turned’ by Red Bull at the season finale in Abu Dhabi.Masi has since been axed from the role following an internal investigation by the FIA into his handling of the race.
    Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has once again hit out at former F1 race director Michael MasiCredit: Alamy
    Masi was axed following an investigation into his handling of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in DecemberCredit: Getty
    The Aussie failed to follow safety car rules which set up a one-lap showdown back in December.
    Race leader Lewis Hamilton was a sitting duck on old tyres and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen blasted his way past to take the win and the title.
    Wolff, Hamilton and the Mercedes team were furious and the Austrian is still livid at the outcome of the championship.
    Speaking on a Sky F1 documentary to air their Sunday, Wolff also says that a “bromance” helped Verstappen win.
    Masi made a ‘deal’ with Red Bull’s sporting director Jonathan Wheatley over restart grid positions in Saudi Arabia.
    He also changed his mind over Safety Car rules amid Red Bull protests in Abu Dhabi.
    Red Bull driver Max Verstappen pipped Lewis Hamilton to the F1 world title in controversial fashionCredit: Getty
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}latest f1 news.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
    Wolff describes Masi and Wheatley’s relationship as a “bromance” and says: “Jonathan Wheatley has done his job.
    “He’s turned Michael Masi the race director, not only in Abu Dhabi but before, and probably Max owes him a lot.”
    Masi is understood to be upset at the FIA’s handling of the situation while Wolff says it is not time to move on.
    He added: “I haven’t spoken to him and I don’t want to speak to him ever again. His decisions were wrong and I’m sure that he regrets them.
    “The FIA should have seen much earlier that there was a problem.
    “There was a problem with the structure. There was a problem of personalities.”

    🏁 F1 2022 calendar: practice times, dates and racetrack info More

  • in

    Meet the Wags of the MotoGP, from a stunning beauty therapy owner to a former bodybuilder and a mummy blogger

    THE MotoGP is nearly here.This weekend, Brad Binder, Takaaki Nakagami, and Alex Rins are one, two and three ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix in Doha.
    Marta Vincenzi is one of many stunning Wags of the MotoGPCredit: Instagram @martavincenzi
    Vincenzi dates Luca MariniCredit: Instagram @martavincenzi
    They will be looking to follow in the footsteps of Fabio Quartararo, who is the reigning title holder.
    And cheering them on will be their stunning Wags, including a beauty therapist and a mummy blogger.
    Marta Vincenzi
    Stunning Marta, 25, is the girlfriend of Luca Marini, who is the half-brother of the legendary Valentino Rossi.
    They have been together for five years, and the pair are engaged.
    Yet to have kids, they share dogs Chanel and Wendy.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    Marta also has her own beauty and therapy company called MAISON96.
    Courtney Renniers
    27-year-old Courtney has been with South African star Brad Binder since 2016.
    The blonde beauty is a former World Fitness Federation bikini pro and bodybuilder.
    Like Marta, she is also co-owner of a beauty therapy company.
    Courtney Renniers is a former bodybuilderCredit: Instagram @courtneyrenniers_wffpro
    Renniers other half is Brand BinderCredit: Instagram @courtneyrenniers_wffpro
    Carlota Bertan Crous
    Spanish beauty Carlota married Pol Espargaro in 2018.
    Sport runs in the family for the 28-year-old, whose brother Victor plays on the PGA Tour.
    The two welcomed a daughter in 2020, which Espargaro has revealed is his catalyst for riding safely.
    Carlota Bertan Crous is from SpainCredit: Instagram @carlotabertran
    Carlota married Pol Espargaro in 2018Credit: Instagram @carlotabertran
    Zandria Aiden Van Den Heever
    Zandria, 21, is deeply religious and calls herself a ‘Child of God’ on Instagram.
    Originally from South Africa, she dates Darryn Binder who is racing with Yamaha this year.
    She lives the high-life with her beau, travelling around the globe when he’s in action.
    Religious Zandria Aiden Van Den Heever recently turned 21Credit: Instagram @zandriavdh
    Zandria dates Darryn BinderCredit: Instagram @zandriavdh
    Domizia Castagnini
    Glam Italian Domizia is a fashion buyer by profession.
    She works for the Ratti Boutique based in Pesaro and Bologna.
    The 25-year-old also dates Francesco Bagnaia, who rides with Ducati Corse.
    Glam Italian Domizia Castagnini is a fashion buyerCredit: Instagram @domiziacastagnini
    Francesco Bagnaia and Domizia appear loved-upCredit: Instagram @domiziacastagnini
    Laura Montero
    Architect, interior designer, mummy blogger… Laura Montero has no limitations.
    The 31-year-old’s other half is Aleix Espargaro, who she married in 2014.
    They welcomed twins Max and Mia, 3, who have their own Instagram page.
    Lauro Montero is a mummy bloggerCredit: Instagram @inlau
    Montero and Aleix Espargaro married in 2014 and welcomed twins in 2018Credit: Instagram @inlau
    Alejandra Lopez Garro
    Alejandra will be hoping partner Joan Mir can return to winning ways with the Suzuki team, after winning the 2020 MotoGP World Championship.
    The brunette appears to love to travel, according to her Instagram – sharing bikini snaps in holiday destinations including the Bahamas.
    A daredevil like her other half, she also loves to sky dive.
    Alejandra regularly shares bikini snaps in glam holiday locationsCredit: Instagram @alejandragarrolopez
    Garro will be hoping partner Joan Mir can return to winning ways with the Suzuki teamCredit: Instagram @alejandragarrolopez
    Alice Ricci
    Alice is seven years older than partner Enea Bastianini, 24.
    They have been together for two years, and share a French Bulldog together.
    The Italian couple share a mutual love for the slopes, and regularly go on skiing trips together.
    Alice Ricci is seven years older than her MotoGP partnerCredit: Instagram @aliricci_
    Ricci dates Italian ace Enea BastianiniCredit: Instagram @aliricci_
    Alexandra Perez
    Alexandra, 25, is the partner of Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Alex Rins.
    The pair got engaged in 2020, before welcoming a son into the world called Lucas.
    A glam couple of the circuit, they love to travel – taking in adventures in Amsterdam, Ibiza and Cancun in recent years.
    Alexandra shows off her curves in a bikiniCredit: Instagram @alexandraurbi
    She is the girlfriend of hot favourite Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Alex RinsCredit: Instagram @alexandraurbi
    Raquel Subira
    Maverick Vinales married wife Raquel in a secret ceremony in 2021.
    He announced it to the world on Instagram, along with news they were expecting their first child, Nina who was born the same year.
    Proud Raquel celebrates her man’s success on social media, as well as shares cute snaps of their daughter.
    Raquel secretly married Maverick VinalesCredit: Instagram @raquel_subira
    The pair are parents to daughter, NinaCredit: Instagram @raquel_subira More

  • in

    Nikita Mazepin ‘SACKED by Haas’ after Russian F1 driver was banned from racing at the British GP

    NIKITA MAZEPIN has been sacked by his Formula 1 team Haas, according to reports.It was announced by the FIA earlier this week that Russian driver Mazepin would be able to race under a neutral flag this season following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Haas have parted ways with Russian driver MazepinCredit: PA
    Fittipaldi looks set to replace Mazepin in the Haas carCredit: Getty
    But he has been banned from driving the British Grand Prix after Motorsport UK blocked all Russian and Belarussian racers from competing.
    And Sky Deutschland are now reporting that Haas have parted ways with Mazepin.
    Pietro Fittipaldi is expected to partner Mick Schumacher at Haas.
    Nikita Mazepin’s father, billionaire oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, has close ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
    Yesterday at an extraordinary meeting led by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the World Motor Sport Council agreed that competitors holding Russian and Belarussian racing licences could still race under an “FIA flag”.
    But Motorsport UK has gone one step further by stopping them, including Mazepin, from competing.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Motorsport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    A Motorsport UK statement read: “No Russian/Belarusian licenced teams are approved to enter motorsport competitions in the UK.
    “No Russian/Belarusian licenced competitors and officials are approved to participate in UK motorsport events.
    “No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (on uniform, equipment and car) to be displayed at Motorsport UK permitted events.
    “The Motorsport UK decision was made in full consultation with the UK Government and national sports governing bodies to ensure that there is a unilateral response to the crisis.”
    The 2022 F1 season is due to get underway with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 20. More

  • in

    Valentino Rossi’s girlfriend Sofia Novello gives birth as MotoGP legend becomes a dad two days before new season

    MOTOGP star Valentino Rossi and partner Francesca Sofia Novello have announced the birth of their baby daughter. The Italian MotoGP legend has started a family after emotionally retiring from the sport back in August 2021 after an illustrious 25-year career in the saddle.
    Rossi and his girlfriend Francesca have announced the birth of a baby daughterCredit: Instagram @francescasofianovello
    Baby Giulietta is Rossi’s first childCredit: Instagram @francescasofianovello
    That freed up time for Rossi to be on dad duty, instead of having to gear up for Sunday’s 2022 MotoGP season opener in Qatar.
    The 43-year-old became a father for the first time alongside girlfriend Francesca, who is 14-years his junior.
    Model and influencer Francesca took to Instagram to post a picture of newly born baby Giulietta to her 542k followers.
    She wrote: “Mum and dad are over the moon! Welcome Giulietta Rossi.”
    Rossi also shared the post to his 13million Instagram followers.
    He first met glam partner Francesca in 2018, and she was a regular in the paddock before he called time on his career last August.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}LATEST OFFERS.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
    That very same month the pair announced they were expecting a child together in a hilarious social media post.
    Rossi dressed up as a doctor while holding a stethoscope pressed up against Francesca’s stomach, captioning the snap: “After a careful visit we can tell you that Franci is pregnant! We are expecting for a girl.”
    Francesca is a former lingerie model, who was the face of various fashion campaigns in Milan, and even used to work as a MotoGP grid girl
    Rossi’s 25-years in the sport and nine MotoGP World Championship titles helped him amass a fortune of around £150m.
    Rossi and Francesca revealed they were pregnant back in August in hilarious fashionCredit: Instagram @francescasofianovello More