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    Lewis Hamilton refuses to win F1 title the ‘dirty’ way amid fears Max Verstappen could wipe him out in Abu Dhabi finale

    LEWIS HAMILTON has promised to keep his title fight with Max Verstappen clean because he doesn’t want to win it the ‘dirty’ way.The Brit also says he doesn’t fear a Michael Schumacher-style wipe out in Sunday’s crunch race.
    Lewis Hamilton insists he is only focused on what HE can do, not what F1 Ccampionship rival Max Verstappen could do to himCredit: Rex
    Britain’s world champion Lewis Hamilton and challenger Max Verstappen have already clashed many times this seasonCredit: Getty
    It’s winner takes all in Abu Dhabi for the F1 season finale as both drivers are level on points.
    Verstappen though has the advantage of more wins, nine to Hamilton’s eight meaning that if BOTH crashed out, the Dutchman would be crowned champ.
    In 1994, Schumacher collided with Damon Hill, sending both drivers out of the race, allowing the German to win the title.
    Schumacher repeated the stunt in 1997 when he crashed into Jacques Villeneuve – but this time he was disqualified from the whole season, handing victory to the Canadian.
    Hamilton was quizzed by German publication Bild on whether he can expect the same treatment from Verstappen on Sunday.
    He said: “No. I am not afraid of what may or may not happen at all. I don’t give any space to such thoughts.
    “I don’t have a history of such accidents but I can only control my car and make my decisions and not those for Max.
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    “Of course there are situations in which you know that the corner could decide the world title.
    “But then you have to take the risk to be the fastest and the first to cross the finishing line. I want to win the title, but do it the right way. And not dirty.”
    Hamilton has the momentum coming into this weekend following back to back wins in Brazil, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
    If he is to win on Sunday he would achieve a record eighth world title that would move him clear of the joint record he currently holds with Schumacher.
    But despite the enormity of his potential success, the 36-year-old is remaining remarkably level-headed and says he’s not thinking about another title.
    When asked if he was thinking about what an eighth title would mean to him, he added: “No, but of course I know that. Still, it’s an issue for the fans and the media.
    “We as a team concentrate fully on the current task. Nobody has ever won eight titles. We want to change that. We have done everything to achieve that goal.

    “It is up to others to decide who is the best [driver of all time]. My goal is to always get the best out of myself. The titles are of secondary importance to me.”
    Hamilton turns 37 in January but has two years left to run on his deal with Mercedes and says he is not ready to retire yet and hopefully has more victories ahead of him.
    However, he is not likely to run into his forties like NFL legend Tom Brady.
    When asked if he’d felt he’d achieved everything as the most successful F1 driver of all time, he said: “No of course not.
    “There is always more to be won, even if I do win an eighth title. I still have a contract for two years. So why not?
    “There is no precise plan in my locker but I won’t be active as long as Tom Brady! I am working on a few projects, for example my Mission44.
    “I’m looking forward to the time after Formula One, when I can support my other projects more intensively.” More

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    Mercedes F1 and Kingpan mutually end controversial partnership after furious backlash from Grenfell Tower victims

    MERCEDES and sponsor Kingspan have ended their controversial relationship following a backlash from victims of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.The F1 team announced the building materials company as a new partner ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix last weekend.
    Kingspan became a partner of Mercedes F1 ahead of the Saudi Arabia Grand PrixCredit: AP
    The Kingspan logo was visible on the Mercedes carsCredit: Getty
    72 people died following the fire at Grenfell Tower four years agoCredit: Reuters
    The insulation produced by Kingspan was one of the products used on the outside of the Grenfell Tower – where 72 people died after a fire in June 2017.
    And the role the company’s product played in the tragedy is currently the subject of a public enquiry.
    Pressure group Grenfell United, which consists of survivors and bereaved family members, wrote to Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff to convey their disdain at the link-up.
    And UK government minister Michael Gove also issued a letter to Wolff insisting he change his mind on the deal with Kingspan.
    Mercedes, who had Kingspan’s logo on their cars for the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, have now confirmed the end of that partnership by mutual consent.
    A statement from Mercedes released on Wednesday said: “The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team and Kingspan today announced that they have mutually agreed to end their partnership.
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    “Announced last week, the new partnership included Kingspan chairing a new Sustainability Working Group for the team, and aimed to deliver carbon reductions through their leading-edge environmentally sustainable solutions for the team’s future campus. 
    “However, both parties have subsequently concluded that it is not appropriate for the partnership to move forward at the current point in time, notwithstanding its intended positive impact, and we have therefore agreed that it will be discontinued with immediate effect.”
    A Kingspan statement said they are ‘deeply aware of the sensitivities raised in recent days, and so we have jointly agreed that it’s not appropriate to move forward at the current point in time’.
    They went on to say they have ‘had no role in the Grenfell Tower refurbishment’ and that its insulation UK business is ‘a core participant in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and fully supports the Inquiry’s important work’.
    Grenfell United responded by insisting Mercedes had ‘done the right thing’, before adding: “With justice still so far away, it’s these small steps that encourage us to keep fighting.”
    Meanwhile, Mercedes are currently preparing for a huge world title decider in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
    Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are currently LEVEL on points heading into a mouthwatering final race of the 2021 season. More

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    Ex-F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone slams Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes for ‘not playing fair’ with treatment of Max Verstappen

    LEWIS HAMILTON and Mercedes are ‘bullying’ Max Verstappen and ‘not paying fair’, according to former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone.In one of the greatest battles of all time, seven-time champion Hamilton and Dutch youngster Verstappen head into the final Grand Prix of the season in Abu Dhabi level on points.
    Verstappen and Hamilton collided once again in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Sky Sports
    Ecclestone believes Verstappen has been mistreated by Hamilton and MercedesCredit: Getty
    The rivalry has been an intense one, with crashes between the pair occurring at both the British and Italian Grands Prix.
    And that competitive nature between both camps reared its head once more last weekend in a dramatic race in Saudi Arabia.
    In a race that included two red flags, multiple crashes and five non-finishers, Hamilton and Verstappen exchanged the lead numerous times with the Brit eventually coming out on top.
    But not before the pair crashed into one another on lap 37.
    Verstappen slowed down to let Hamilton past having been ordered to give the place back, but the Mercedes driver was confused and ended up ramming into the back of the Dutchman.
    Hamilton insisted Verstappen had ‘brake-tested’ him, while Verstappen maintained he was simply trying to let the Brit past.
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    All these incidents have mounted up throughout the season and Ecclestone believes Hamilton and Mercedes are playing a game to bully his title rival.
    Speaking to AFP, the ex-F1 chief said: “Max is a kid compared to Lewis and the worst thing is Lewis has a massive publicity campaign working for him.
    “They have been pushing down all the time on Max and then the race directors have been looking in because Toto goes to the race director.
    “Max has more than a race to confront as he has them too on his back because they are bullying him and not playing fair. It is psychological game playing.
    “Max has had a few years of racing but has not had years in the streets like Lewis.

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    “It has built character and knowing he would win the race with Mercedes being the dominant force over the past few years has made him a much stronger character than Max.
    “For Max, this season is the first one he has had a car capable of winning regularly whereas before it was nothing like competitive.”
    With the pair level on points but Verstappen having one more race win than Hamilton, essentially the Brit simply needs to better his world title rival in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.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-zkaekv{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-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::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);}Read More Sun 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);}
    If the pair both crash out then Verstappen will be crowned the world champion.
    Mercedes have not lost a drivers’ championship since Sebastian Vettel on the last of his four successive titles with Red Bull in 2013. More

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    Saudi Arabia Grand Prix will only be ‘fine-tuned’ rather than overhauled despite F1 drivers calling rapid track ‘scary’

    FORMULA 1 will ‘fine-tune’ the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix but it will not be overhauled despite being described as ‘scary’ by Red Bull driver Sergio Perez.There were a host of crashes throughout the weekend in Jeddah as the new circuit’s debut on the F1 calendar brought with it both drama and danger.
    There were numerous crashes during the Saudi Arabia GP weekendCredit: Rex
    Schumacher went into the barriers during the raceCredit: Rex
    Vettel, who did not finish the race, came together with Raikkonen and was then spun by TsunodaCredit: Rex
    A series of incidents occurred in the F1 race throughout the practice sessions and race itself, with five of the 20 cars failing to finish on Sunday.
    And there was also a horror collision in the F2 race when Enzo Fittipaldi smashed into the back of Theo Pourchaire after he stalled on the grid.
    Yet despite all of the accidents – and two race restarts in the F1 race due to red flags – FIA race director Michael Masi does not believe there needs to be wholesale change to the track.
    He told motorsport.com: “I think here in Saudi Arabia they’ve done a brilliant job of putting this amazing facility together in such a short time frame, which is a credit to everyone involved.
    “There is some fine-tuning that will happen across the board. There were some teething issues [with it] being a brand new event, brand new facility, on the whole of things.
    “There’ll be some fine-tuning but nothing in a major way that I envisage here and now.”
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    Leclerc crashed into the barriers during the second practice sessionCredit: AFP
    Perez was clipped by Leclerc at the first restartCredit: Splash
    The alarm bells were ringing in the F1 paddock during the weekend as it became apparent the risks that were being taken to navigate the circuit.
    And Red Bull driver Perez was one of the first to vocalise his concern for the safety of those in the cars.
    Speaking after qualifying but ahead of the race, he said: “It’s a really nice circuit, very dangerous though in terms of there is a lot of straights that are turning, cornering and blind corners.
    “When you look at some of the onboards it’s quite scary. I hope nothing [bad] happens tomorrow.
    “I just feel the track is a bit too risky without reason, with the speeds we are doing with the deltas around the track from some other cars, and it’s a bit unnecessary.”
    Lewis Hamilton went on to win the Saudi Arabia GP ahead of world title rival Max Verstappen after a remarkable battle between the pair.

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    Hamilton and Verstappen are now LEVEL on points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
    The 24-year-old Dutchman holds a slender advantage ahead of the title decider having won nine races compared to Hamilton’s eight.
    But the seven-time champion is on a three-race winning streak and will be confident he can clinch a record-breaking eighth championship. More

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    Abu Dhabi GP could be shown for FREE as Channel 4 hold talks with Sky to share live rights for thrilling F1 finale

    THE ABU DHABI GP could be shown for FREE on TV as Channel 4 and Sky are in talks to share the live rights, according to reports. Sunday’s ‘winner-takes-all’ showdown between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen is set to be a thriller and British TV audiences may be able to watch it for nothing.
    Sunday’s thrilling showdown to the F1 season between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen could be shown for FREE on Channel 4Credit: Reuters
    Sky are the live rights holders but sources close to Channel 4 told the Times initial discussions have taken place about a deal which would see the race shown on free-to-air terrestrial TV too.
    Hamilton, 36, and Verstappen, 24, are level on points in the drivers’ standings which has set up a mouthwatering final race of the season.
    The Brit would bag a record eighth championship were he to win.
    Channel 4 currently have the highlights rights to the F1 coverage which has encouraged fans.
    But an outcome to the talks is not expected until later this week.
    And there is also said to be a chance the decision may not be made until the weekend.
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    Sky reportedly declined to comment to the Times.
    Sky do not need to strike a deal with Channel 4 to make the eagerly anticipated finale free to the public.
    The broadcasting giant also has the option to show it one of its free channels.
    But they did come to a ‘sharing’ agreement with Channel 4 for England’s dramatic Cricket World Cup final win in 2019 – so there is precedent.
    A similar deal was also struck in September when Prime Video let Channel 4 show Emma Raducanu’s historic win in the US Open tennis final.

    Sky have to balance the potential good publicity and the chance of attracting new subscribers for next season against kickback from fans who have already paid to watch the race.
    But former sports minister Tracy Crouch wholeheartedly urged the broadcast giant to make it available for free.
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    She told the Times: “It is only the last day of the season we are talking about, so I would hope they do so.
    “Pay TV does provide a massive investment in sports and we wouldn’t want to see the end of that because of the large benefits it brings.

    “But where there are epic endings or finales to sporting occasions I do think it makes sense to make them available to the widest possible audience.”
    Sunday will be the first time in 47 years two championship contenders have entered the final race level on points – Hamilton and Verstappen each have 369.5.
    And if Hamilton wins he will surpass Michael Schumacher’s record of seven championships and become the greatest F1 driver of all time. More

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    ‘Not F1, it was rental karting’ – Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen duel like ‘Hollywood show’ says Jacques Villeneuve

    FORMER F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve says the F1 title fight has turned into a “Hollywood show”.The Canadian, who won the title in 1997 after Michael Schumacher was disqualified in the final race of the season for trying to ram him off track, has blasted Lewis Hamilton’s battle with Max Verstappen in Saudi Arabia and said it was like “rental karting”.
    Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have been involved in heated exchanges in one of the most controversial F1 seasons everCredit: Getty
    Former champ Jacques Villeneuve fears the title race is now more of a show than a sportCredit: Getty
    Villeneuve says that his former boss Frank Williams would be “turning in his grave” at their bad-tempered battle.
    He said: “It wasn’t F1, it was rental karting. Everything was wrong. So I’m not sure what to say.
    “And it’s hard to stay neutral, it’s hard to give a comment on what happened every time and be perceived as being neutral.
    “You will always be perceived as taking sides, and that’s when it becomes a bit too much.
    “Do we want sport and good F1? Or do we just want a Hollywood show?
    “If you want a Hollywood show, Sunday was amazing. But is that what F1 is all about?
    “I don’t know. I mean, I think Frank would have turned in his grave, seeing that race.
    @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.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-zkaekv{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-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::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);}
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    “And then when you see the team principals, everybody is shouting, and putting pressure, even on the marshals and so on, that become ridiculous.
    “It really has become ridiculous.
    “It was great for the fans. So that probably will increase the viewership. Which is great for F1.
    “But we’re starting to get away from the sport, that’s all. So ultimately, it depends if you’re a purist or not.
    “I just hope we have a nice clean race in Abu Dhabi. And may the best man win, and not anything Hollywood. We already got our Hollywood hits this year.”
    Meanwhile, former F1 driver Martin Brundle says Verstappen has to stop his aggressive tactics or risk earning a reputation as “an unfair driver”.
    ‘CONFUSION, CONTROVERSIES, INCONSISTENCIES’
    He said: “Max has been playing the game given that, with his points advantage, Hamilton simply can’t afford to have an accident.
    “Even now despite being absolutely level on points going into the final round, for the first time in F1 since 1974, that remains the case given that he has a 9-8 race victory tally should there be a count-back.
    “Such is Max’s car control and cunning he’s sometimes able to pull off the audacious moves and leave a margin of doubt as to whether it’s hard racing or simply a professional foul outside of the regulations.
    “And it’s those moments which are generating the confusion, controversies and inconsistencies.
    “I’m in awe of Verstappen’s driving skills and racing nous but it saddens me that he’s resorting to such tactics, he’s better than that.
    “And for all his outwardly carefree attitude it will be such a shame if his legacy is to be labelled as an unfair driver.” More

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    Inside Lewis Hamilton romances, including Nicole Scherzinger, Danielle Lloyd, Rita Ora, Barbara Palvin and Rihanna

    WHEN you live life in the fast lane, you tend to attract the world’s most glamorous women.Over the years, Lewis Hamilton has transcended F1 and found himself on the showbiz circuit thanks to a slew of high-profile relationships.
    Lewis Hamilton has never had any problems attracting the ladiesCredit: Getty – Contributor
    The 36-year-old, believed to be worth over £230m, has dated supermodels and pop stars – but without properly settling down.
    Today, he’s even more desirable and could clinch a record eighth World Championship if he finishes ahead of rival Max Verstappen at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    Here’s a rundown of the beauties Lewis has had on his arm.
    DANIELLE LLOYD
    When Lewis was a teenage driver, he dated Celebrity Big Brother housemate Lloyd in 2002.
    They met at celebrity haunt 10 Rooms, and had a steamy six month romance that fizzled out because of the long-distance between the pair.
    The two remained friends, and he was there to see her crowned Miss England in 2004.
    She has also cheered Lewis on at Silverstone in recent years.
    Hamilton dated Danielle Lloyd in 2002Credit: Refer to Caption
    Lloyd enjoyed a brief six-month fling with Hamilton that petered out because of the long distanceCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Hamilton and Lloyd are said to still be friendsCredit: Refer to Caption
    JODIE MA
    Lewis was allegedly dating Jodie Ma, the daughter of disgraced Hong Kong businessman Ma Bo-kee, at the same time he romanced Lloyd.
    Jodie and Lewis reportedly met at the Cambridge School of Arts, and dated for four years.
    However, their romance came to an end in 2007, but they reportedly stayed friends after.
    “The only problem with my job is that I don’t get to see her enough,” Lewis once said of Jodie. “She’s my best friend and we speak everyday.”
    Jodie Ma, left, met Hamilton when he was a teenager at Cambridge School of ArtsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    LOTTA HINTSA
    Because of his field, it makes sense that Lewis would be linked to the the daughter of McLaren’s former doctor Aki Hintsa.
    It also wasn’t any harm that she is a former Miss Finland, and drop-dead gorgeous.
    The pair were often seen hanging out together, and reports suggested they were an item.
    However, Lotta denied the claims and said they were just good friends.
    Stunning Lotta Hintsa is the daughter of the former McLaren team doctor Aki HintsaCredit: Instagram @lottanakyva
    Lotta Hintsa also happens to be a former Miss FinlandCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Hintsa has always denied that she dated HamiltonCredit: Instagram @lottanakyva
    VIVIAN BURKHARDT
    The Miss World beauty had a quick fling with the racing driver before she was reportedly dumped for Nicole Scherzinger in 2008.
    Burkhardt claimed that Lewis invited her to his tax-haven home in Switzerland before whisking her off to the Cannes Film Festival to show off his conquest on the red carpet.
    Then, just weeks later, he was spied with the Pussycat Dolls beauty on his arm, which left the Grenadian stunner devastated.
    Miss World contestant Burkhardt was seeing Hamilton until he dumped her for Nicole ScherizingerCredit: AFP – Getty
    NICOLE SCHERZINGER
    Perhaps the love of his life, or the one that got away, Lewis and Nicole were on and off for seven years before they split again in 2016.
    It was love at first sight for the pair when they at the MTV VMA’s, but the F1 champ admitted that his car collection always came first.
    “My cars are my babies,” he revealed.
    “I used to say, when I had a girlfriend, ‘I’m taking one of the girls out, so you can come if you want, but you come second when it comes to the cars.”
    Nicole Scherzinger had an on/off romance with Hamilton for seven yearsCredit: Instagram @nicolescherzinger
    But Hamilton reportedly dumped Scherzinger because his car collection came firstCredit: Instagram @nicolescherzinger
    It is often said that Scherzinger was the one that got awayCredit: Instagram @nicolescherzinger
    RIHANNA
    In 2015, Lewis and the Umbrella singer became inseparable, and they were spotted flirting up a storm in Barbados and then New York.
    Again, he played the friends card. “You know, I’ve known Ri for a long time,” he told E!
    “We’ve been friends for a while. We get to hang out every now and again…”
    But rumours swirled that the pair wanted to take their friendship to the next level, before Rihanna decided she didn’t want to tie herself down, according to reports.
    Rihanna and Hamilton were inseparable in 2015Credit: Getty – Contributor
    The pair even went to Barbados together to enjoy a carnivalCredit: Splash News
    RITA ORA
    Post Scherzinger, Lewis seemed to have a thing for pop stars.
    The Ritual singer was said to be infatuated with Lewis back in 2016, and they were seen working in a music studio together in 2017.
    And on the weekend of his 31st birthday, Ora was spotted cheering him on at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    The pair never confirmed their relationship, but appeared to enjoy spending time together.
    Hamilton, pictured with Rita Ora, has always had a thing for pop starsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ora was said to be infatuated with Hamilton and cheered him on at the Abu Dhabi Grand PrixCredit: Instagram @ritaora
    Ora was said to be infatuated with Hamilton and cheered him on at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
    However, Ora and Hamilton’s relationship didn’t last longCredit: Instagram @ritaora
    BARBARA PALVIN
    The Hungarian model and Victoria’s Secret Angel was first seen partying with Lewis after the Monaco Grand Prix in 2017.
    Then a year later Hamilton uploaded a video of the two walking down a corridor on Instagram in Budapest that fueled rumours they were an item.
    They even went for a romantic sushi dinner, as they looked to be getting on like a house on fire.
    Palvin was also linked with Neymar, until she finally settled down with US actor Dylan Sprouse.
    Barbara Palvin is a Hungarian supermodel who was linked to Hamilton
    Palvin and Hamilton were seen looking cosy at various eventsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Palvin was also once linked Neymar Jr
    WINNIE HARLOW
    The supermodel, who suffers from skin condition vitiligo, was spied getting cosy with Hamilton in 2016 at the GQ Awards in London.
    Canadian stunner Winnie and Lewis then stepped out together at the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York in 2018.
    Again, Lewis has said they’re friends – but the flirting in public said otherwise, according to reports.
    Harlow suffers with the skin condition vitiligoCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Hamilton and Harlow went to the CFDA Fashion Awards together last yearCredit: Getty – Contributor
    They say they’re friends, but Hamilton and Harlow have often been seen flirting in each others’ companyCredit: AFP or licensors
    SOFIA RICHIE
    The daughter of ‘All Night Long’ crooner Lionel Richie, Sofia and Lewis started dating after she had a fling with his mate Justin Bieber.
    In 2017, the pair were always pictured together – with the 14-year age gap seemingly not causing any issues.
    And they even shared a penchant for fashion, when they attended Paris Fashion Week that same year.
    But she moved on and now dates Scott Disick – best known for his relationship with Kourtney Kardashian.
    Sofia Richie is the stunning daughter of singer Lionel RichieCredit: The Mega Agency
    Hamilton and Richie shared a love of fashion, attending Paris Fashion Week togetherCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Richie dated Hamilton’s mate Justin Bieber before she began seeing the F1 aceCredit: The Mega Agency
    NICKI MINAJ
    Minaj and Hamilton kept us all guessing about their relationship status.
    Are they friends? Were they more? The pop princess and the boy racer were first seen in 2016 at an Alexander Wang fashion show.
    Then, they stepped out together at the TommyXLewis Launch Party in New York in 2018 and were reportedly holding hands.
    Days later they were spotted in the same hotel in Dubai, and shared a quad bike ride soon after that.
    Nicki Minaj and Hamilton have kept us guessing on their relationship status for yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Minaj was seen holding hands with Hamilton at the TommyXLewis Launch Party in New York in 2018Credit: Getty – Contributor
    VERONICA VALLE
    Glamour model Valle kicked up a fuss in 2018 when she claimed Hamilton was obsessed with threesomes and hated people using his toilet.
    She also alleged that Hamilton was harsh on her about her weight, and tore into ex Scherzinger.
    “Lewis is such a strange character,” she told The Sun On Sunday.
    “He’s Jekyll and Hyde. He can switch moods very quickly and sometimes that would come about just because somebody used the wrong toilet.”
    Stunning Veronica Valle claimed Hamilton was obsessed with threesomesCredit: Instagram @dam_vero
    Valle called Hamilton a “Jekyll and Hyde” character in an interview with The Sun On SundayCredit: Instagram @dam_vero
    Valle also revealed Hamilton hated anyone using his toiletCredit: Instagram @dam_vero
    ZAHRA ELISE
    In 2019, Hamilton was linked to bikini model Zahra Elise – and the pair were seen together at Los Angeles petrol station.
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    And they looked super close – with Hamilton’s hand placed on Zahra’s neck as she ran her hands through her hair.
    But again, reports have suggested the pair are in the friends’ zone before anything else happens yet.
    Hamilton certainly is a ladies’ desire.
    Zahra Elise is the latest model being linked to Hamilton
    According to reports, Elise used to be a jet mechanic in the US Navy
    Elise and Hamilton were spotted looking adoringly at each other in Los Angeles
    JASMINE SANDERS
    During the 2019 F1 season, Hamilton was romantically linked to Jasmine.
    He was a guest at Paris Fashion Week, when he was spotted grabbing dinner with the American model.
    But Hamilton hit back at reports that he was dating her.
    “It’s a sad world when a man cannot have female colleagues or friends without the media making it seem something it isn’t,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
    Jasmine Sanders was linked to Hamilton in 2019Credit: Instagram
    Sanders is nicknamed the Golden Barbie on InstagramCredit: Instagram
    VIKTORIA ODINTCOVA
    Russian model Viktoria confirmed she and Lewis were an item at one point, when he was single.
    “We had different types of relationship,” the 26-year-old told RT.
    “At a certain period of time it was romantic. He was courting me. But then this relationship evolved into friendship.
    “I live in Russia and he lives abroad, we just became friends who can message each other and send holiday greetings.”
    Russian model Viktoria Odintcova admitted a romance with Lewis Hamilton
    Odintcova said her relationship with Hamilton fizzled out because they lived in different countries
    CINDY KIMBERLY
    Spanish model and ex-Justin Bieber girlfriend Cindy was a reported love interest in 2019.
    She was seen out and about in Barcelona with Lewis back in 2019, but she later revealed her cats and mum were her priority.
    She told Europa Press: “For now we are friends, I do not rule out anyone in general.
    “All friendships are open to love, my heart is 70 per cent occupied.
    “It is due to my cats and my mother.”
    Spanish model Cindy Kimberly dated Justin BieberCredit: Instagram
    Kimberly was spotted with Hamilton enjoying a night out in BarcelonaCredit: Instagram
    FLORENCE MUELLER
    Mueller, who is a dead-ringer for Hamilton’s ex-girlfriend Scherzinger, appeared on the scene in 2020.
    She enjoyed a yacht trip with the F1 champ in Corsica in late 2020, with cameras capturing the pair on board.
    However, sources close to Mueller insisted they weren’t a couple.
    An insider said: “Lewis and Florence aren’t dating, they’re just good mates.
    “She joined him on the boat as part of a group of pals with Lewis.
    “They get on but there’s nothing romantic going on between them at the moment.”
    Florence Mueller is a Nicole Sherzinger lookalikeCredit: Twitter
    Mueller partied with Hamilton on a yacht in CorsicaCredit: Twitter
    CAMILA KENDRA
    Back in August, Hamilton was linked to model and social media influencer, Camila.
    She sparked rumours the pair were more than friends by sharing a picture taken in his home wearing his shirt in an Instagram post.
    The Dominican Republic stunner was previously in a relationship with Tyler Cameron, a reality TV star off US show The Bachelor.
    Kendra has recently been linked to Chelsea star Ben Chilwell.
    Camila Kendra is a social media influencerCredit: INSTAGRAM/CAMILA KENDRA
    Kendra now reportedly dates Chelsea star Ben Chilwell
    JANET GUZMAN
    Most recently, OnlyFans star Guzman was subject of romance rumours with Lewis.
    The model boasts over 1.9 million followers on Instagram, as well as around 43,000 likes on OnlyFans.
    They met at the Met Gala this year, and reportedly she went with him to his hotel room.
    However, a spokesperson shot down their alleged tryst.
    “While we don’t formally comment on Lewis’s personal life, Janet and Lewis are just friends and she was part of a larger group that went to the hotel for a few drinks after the Met,” they said.
    OnlyFans model Janet Guzman was seen with Lewis Hamilton after the Met Gala in New YorkCredit: Instagram
    Guzman was said to be a friend of Hamilton’s after being seen entering his hotel roomCredit: Instagram More

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    F1 star Lewis Hamilton and Brad Pitt ‘to team up for movie together as Netflix, Amazon and Paramount battle over rights’

    LEWIS HAMILTON is set to team up with Brad Pitt for a blockbuster new movie, according to reports. The Formula One hero, 36, will have his focus well and truly on this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    Lewis Hamilton is set to part of a new film about carsCredit: AFP
    Brad Pitt looks on course to be the star actor involvedCredit: Getty
    But according to The Hollywood Reporter, he is set to be involved in a new project to bring another car film to the big screen.
    It is unlikely Hamilton will be in front of the camera but is set to play a role from behind, including sponsoring the film.
    Films with fast cars have proved a hit in Hollywood.
    And that is why a bidding war allegedly ‘erupted’ last Friday with some of the biggest players in the film industry desperate to beat their rivals to the chequered flag and claim the rights.
    Studios Paramount, MGM, Sony and Universal have reportedly all made offers – while streaming platforms Netflix, Amazon and Apple are said to have done the same.
    It is even added that Disney, who rarely get involved in such races, are also involved.
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    The plot is still unknown but Pitt looks on course to be the A-list actor starring.
    Joseph Kosinski will be the filmmaker with producer Jerry Bruckheimer and screenwriter Ehren Kruger also on board.
    This would be the latest venture of Hamilton’s away from the track.
    He has been involved in music, film, fashion, food and property projects, including voiceovers in the Cars trilogy on top of his activism, philanthropy and charity work.
    But his No1 priority will be trying to beat Max Verstappen and land a record-breaking eighth world championship title this Sunday.
    He goes into the final race of this thrilling 2021 F1 season level on points – meaning it is a straight shootout for the top prize. More