Motorsport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares126 Views

      in Motorsport

      Inside Michael Schumacher’s tragic health battle in Majorca hideaway – as pal makes heartbreaking prediction for future

      by

      WITH fists pumping and arms aloft, racing great Michael Schumacher celebrated his many victories with the same energy as his driving.And that is how the Formula One team boss who helped turn the German legend into a champion three decades ago prefers to think of him.Michael Schumacher in his prime competing for Ferrari at the Chinese Grand Prix in 2004Credit: AP:Associated PressPictures show the helicopter rescue operation in 2013 following Michael’s skiing accident in the French resort of MeribelCredit: Nick HaleyMichael with wife Corinna and their children Gina-Maria and Mick in 2021 Netflix documentaryCredit: NetflixNot as the incapacitated survivor of a horrific skiing accident that Schumacher is said to have become.Italian businessman Flavio Briatore said this week: “If I close my eyes. I see him smiling after a victory.“I prefer to remember him like that rather than him just lying on a bed.”Flavio’s comments reveal the day-to-day struggles faced by the now-reclusive sporting hero, who once epitomised the swashbuckling spirit of adrenaline sport.Schumacher, 56, would go wheel-to-wheel with rivals at extreme speeds on the scariest of bends en route to a record-breaking seven Formula One world championships.Off the track he would party with pals, smoke big cigars, sky dive, scuba dive and fly helicopters.‘Michael communicates with his eyes’But nothing has been seen of Michael since his near-fatal crash on Alpine slopes in France on December 29, 2013.Rumours of some medical miracles, appearances, fresh photos and interviews frequently spread online.But a Formula One insider tells The Sun that like Flavio, the world needs to get used to not seeing Michael’s beaming smile any more.Craig Scarborough, who has been covering the sport for around 25 years and interviewed Michael many times, reveals: “I spoke to someone who is very, very close to him and they just explained we’re not going to hear any more from him.Emotional moment Michael Schumacher’s son and Sebastian Vettel pay tribute to stricken F1 legend “He’s in a comfortable position as far as he can be with his state of health.”It has also been reported that only three people see Michael at his secluded home on the Spanish holiday island of Majorca.Even Flavio, 75, who has been a close friend of Michael since they began working together at the Benetton racing team in 1991, has not seen him for a while.But the Italian says he “often” speaks to Michael’s wife Corinna, 56.Much of her time is said to be consumed by maintaining her husband’s care and keeping the exact details of his current health condition a secret.And Corinna has also had to cope with all the distress of dealing with a blackmail plot.Yilmaz Tozturkan, 53, and his son Daniel Lins, 30, had threatened to publish videos and pictures of Michael unless they were given £12million.Security guard Markus Fritsche had copied the private material while working for the Schumachers and sold it to the two men.Michael on the slopes in Italy in 2003Credit: Rex FeaturesCorinna and Gina accepting a German lifetime achievement award on Michael’s behalf in 2022 in CologneCredit: RexIn February the trio were found guilty of their part in the blackmail plot.Fritsche was given a two-year suspended sentence, while Tozturkan was jailed for three years and Lins was given a six-month suspended prison sentence by a German court.Corinna wanted a harsher sentence for Fritsche.She said: “What still shocks me most is the massive breach of trust. “He should receive a punishment for this that deters others from potentially doing the same.”And last October stories emerged claiming that Michael had attended the wedding of his daughter Gina, 27, in Majorca.Guests and staff had to hand over their mobile phones, while security guards made sure no one could snoop on the ceremony or party.But Michael’s former Benetton teammate Johnny Herbert said: “From what I understand, that was all fake news.”We do everything we can to make Michael better and to make sure he’s comfortable. Corinna SchumacherWhile it remains possible that Schumacher did attend the wedding in a wheelchair, another story was definitely made up.Last year Corinna successfully sued German magazine Die Aktuelle for claiming on its cover “Michael Schumacher, the first interview!”In fact the quotes had been generated by artificial intelligence.What no outsider can be sure about is whether Michael could give an interview if he wanted to.There have been conflicting accounts of his health condition.When Michael’s head hit a boulder in the skiing accident 12 years ago, it split his helmet in two.The brain injury was so serious that he spent 250 days in a coma.The best medical treatment that money could buy brought the sporting great, who is worth £468million, back to consciousness.There had been rumours that further treatment in Paris had allowed Michael to take some small steps, but that was later dismissed.Michael won a record-breaking seven Formula One world championshipsCredit: GettyFlavio Briatore, seen here at Monaco GP last month, spoke about his former Benetton driverCredit: GettyMost people in the know indicate that he is unable to talk, although it is possible he could use eye movements to send messages like the late scientist Stephen Hawking did.In 2020 Flavio’s former wife Elisabetta Gregoraci claimed that: “Michael doesn’t speak, he communicates with his eyes.”Friends do visit and he still follows sports.Former Ferrari F1 chief Jean Todt said: “I can see him but of course, what I miss is what we used to do together. “I watch Grand Prix with Michael.”Corinna also indicated there was an attempt to maintain normality in difficult circumstances.She said in a 2021 Netflix documentary: “We’re together. “We live together at home. “We do therapy.“We’re trying to carry on as a family’“We do everything we can to make Michael better and to make sure he’s comfortable. And to simply make him feel our family, our bond.“And no matter what, I will do everything I can. We all will.“We’re trying to carry on as a family, the way Michael liked it and still does.”I hope they can find happiness in the situation they find themselves in.Craig ScarboroughIt was reported by German media, ahead of the ten-year anniversary of his skiing accident in 2023, that Schumacher receives 24-hour care from a team of up to 15 people.He has been driven in a Mercedes road car, and played sounds from the F1 track, to stimulate his brain with familiar noises.There has been some good family news to lift Michael’s spirits.Last month he became a grandfather for the first time when Gina gave birth to her daughter Millie.His son, 26-year-old Mick, who spent two years as a F1 driver, was only 14 when his dad suffered the debilitating head injury.In the Netflix documentary he admitted he would give “anything” to talk to him about the sport again.Mick said: “I think dad and I would understand each other in a different way now, simply because we speak a similar language, the language of motorsport, and we would have a lot to talk about.”That’s where my head is at most of the time, thinking that would be so cool. I’d give anything just for that.”Mick found love with Danish model Laila Hasanovic, 26, in 2023 — and although they have recently been rumoured to have split   up, she was reportedly trusted enough by the family to be one of the few people to have visited Michael.Craig reckons having close personal time with Mick and other family members is vital for the stricken motorsports star.Physical workloadHe says: “I think a lot of people demand stuff from him and I think that’s wrong.“He is himself, and his family have a lot to contend with.“Until you’ve cared for somebody, I don’t think anyone realises the emotion and the physical workload.”The fact that they have been bold enough to withdraw from public life and not be tempted to do exclusives out there to various people, I think, is noble, and I hope that continues.“I hope they can find happiness in the situation they find themselves in.”Like Flavio, Craig is more comfortable talking about the Michael people knew before the ski tragedy.He says: “He was a guy who enjoyed his personal time. “He loved his family.“He did lots of lovely things. “He clearly liked a drink and he loved a big cigar.“But he had lots of time to bring up his son.”While it is understandable that Michael’s army of fans want to hear from him again, they may have to make do with recalling his past glories.There were certainly more than enough of them for Flavio and others to remember. More

    • 225 Shares98 Views

      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton apologises to Sky Sports presenter after tense interview that saw F1 star on verge of tears

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has apologised to a Sky Sports presenter after being left on the verge of tears during a tense interview.The shocking moment came after Hamilton blamed himself for a “terrible” performance at the Spanish Grand Prix.Lewis Hamilton has apologised after coming close to tears after the Spanish GPCredit: YouTube/Sky Sports F1He apologised to Sky Sports’ Rachel Brookes for a tense interviewCredit: GettyThe Ferrari star finished sixth in Barcelona, with Oscar Piastri coming first, meaning he remains winless for his new team.After the race, Hamilton was interviewed by Sky Sports presenter Rachel Brookes.And the seven-time world champion appeared close to tears when asked if there was “something wrong” with Ferrari’s car.He said: “Not particularly, it was not a great day. The strategy was good, the team did a great job. That’s it.”READ MORE IN F1Noting Hamilton’s downcast mood, Brookes replied: “I hate seeing you in this mood.”But the Brit snapped back with watery eyes: “Well what do you want me to say? I had a really bad day and I’ve got nothing to say.“It was a difficult day, I’ve got nothing else to add to it. There’s no point explaining it.“It’s not your fault, I’ve just not got anything to say. I’m sure (Ferrari) won’t (be able to find a fix), the answer is probably just me.”Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHamilton has since apologised to Brookes for his tense replies in the interview.Her fellow Sky Sports star David Croft revealed all on The Fast and The Curious podcast.Fernando Alonso overheard taking sarcastic swipe at old rival Lewis Hamilton after blunder ahead of Spanish Grand PrixHe said: “Lewis was really down on himself, and no one likes to see that because at the end of the day, whether you’re a fan or not, Lewis Hamilton is the greatest racing driver we’ve ever seen.“Statistically, he is the greatest. I think he’s the greatest even without the stats. “He wears his heart on his sleeve and should be applauded for that because it does a lot of good when he wears his heart on his sleeve.“He did apologise to Rachel Brookes for being so down in the dumps off camera. He said, ‘I’m really sorry about that, I’m just so down’.“And that just shows the extent that he really was down. He’s not putting this on for the cameras, trust me. “And once again, it’s right after the race. He’s not had time for a debrief. He’s not had time to have a chat with his race engineer.“So he probably didn’t know the extent of whatever damage the car had at the time he spoke to Rachel.“And he probably didn’t realise that it was the car that was hindering him more so than his driving in that one.Read More on The Sun“And look, when you’re in a Ferrari and you’re overtaken by Nico Hulkenberg, albeit in a Ferrari-powered Sauber, you’re going to question, ‘Is it me really? Am I doing something wrong here?’ “Because it just didn’t go for him really from the outset.” More

    • 225 Shares157 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 stars’ pets from driver with THIRTEEN cats, a yacht-loving pooch, Hamilton’s Insta-famous bulldog and even a reindeer

      by

      “LOVE to travel, play ball and get attention from all the girls, especially when they rub my bum.”It reads like the bio of a semi-professional footballer and wannabe Love Island contestant’s Tinder bio.Lewis Hamilton’s pet dog Roscoe is arguably one of the most famous pups on the planetCredit: Instagram @roscoelovescocoBut this quirky little nugget is the Instagram bio of a super-famous influencer with 1.2million followers.Their name? Roscoe Hamilton… Formula One superstar Lewis Hamilton’s pet BULLDOG.Us mere mortals could only dream of racking up that number of fans on social media.According to reports, mega-popular Roscoe raked in around £200,000 last year through his Instagram page.READ MORE SPORT STORIESOwner Hamilton is one of the richest sportspeople of all time, with a net worth of around £285million and paid £55m a year to drive for Ferrari.Perhaps it should come as little surprise he has a superstar pet to match.And Roscoe is one pampered pet pooch… but he’s not the sport’s only famous pet.SunSport takes a look at all F1 stars’ beloved dogs, cats, horses and, err, reindeer…Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLewis HamiltonAS mentioned, Hamilton, 40, has a British Bulldog named Roscoe – his one and only pet.Like the F1 racer himself, Roscoe is a vegan pooch and has been spotted driving a Mercedes.Hamilton famously won six of his seven world titles at Mercedes, following his spell at McLaren.Roscoe, meanwhile, drives his own black, miniature Mercedes G-Wagon with a personalised plate: R05 COE.The pampered pup is often spotted living a life of luxury, from trips on a private jet to his own birthday party.Roscoe also joins Hamilton in the gym and sometimes even in the paddock on Grand Prix weekends.Without a doubt, Roscoe Hamilton is one of the most famous dogs on the planet.However, Hamilton recently revealed he’s “always really wanted a horse”. Watch this space.Roscoe even has his own Mercedes G-Wagon to get aroundCredit: Instagram @roscoelovescocoRoscoe is a regular at F1 Grands Prix as he strolls around the paddockCredit: GettyHamilton has even thrown parties for vegan Roscoe with all of his friends invitedCredit: Instagram @roscoelovescocoHamilton brought Roscoe to the paddock when he clinched his record-equalling seventh world titleCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourceRoscoe is no stranger to a flight in a private jetCredit: Instagram @roscoelovescocoRoscoe lives life in the fast line, even taking his spot in a Mercedes F1 racerCredit: Facebook/Lewis HamiltonInside Lewis Hamilton’s birthday celebrations for beloved dog Roscoe with special cake and chilling out with movieAlex AlbonALBON, 29, is the proud owner of his very own “zoo”.The London-born Thai racer now drives for Williams, but it seems his real full-time job is looking after his animals.Albon owns a staggering 13 CATS – and in a recent video on F1’s official TikTok channel even had difficulty remembering their names.When asked, Albon sighed and said: “Oof… there’s one cat called Hugo.”Armani, Gucci, Prada… err, Lucky.”Clearly confused, he continued: “Another cat is either Armani or Moomoo.”Giraffe, Hippo, Bear… have I said Giraffe?”There’s one called Sushi… I’m missing something.”Ah. Duck and Goose!”The fun doesn’t stop there, though, as Albon continued: “I also have a dog… and a horse.”There is also an Instagram account called ‘Albon Pets’ which is run by the entire family, as the bio states: “Welcome to ‘The Albon Zoo.’ The pets of Alex, Zoe, Alicia, Bitbit and Luca.”It’s has 346,000 followers and counting…Alex Albon has an incredible 13 cats as part of his family ‘zoo’Credit: Instagram @albon_petsAlbon struggled to recall the name of his 13 cats in a recent TikTok videoCredit: Instagram @albon_petsAlbon even has a horse, named Snow WhiteAs well as 13 cats, Albon has a dog and horseMax VerstappenTHE reigning F1 champion, 27, has a sausage dog named Nino and three cats – Jimmy, Sassy and Donut (Donatello) – with partner Kelly Piquet, step-daughter Penelope and newborn daughter Lily.Jimmy and Sassy are named after Monaco nightclubs, such is the Belgium-born Dutch racer’s love of the principality.However, it’s not all plain sailing for Verstappen when it comes to the furry members of the family.The Red Bull superstar admitted: “Nino’s actually very sweet to be honest. He does terrorise the cats a bit…”Not only that, they get somewhat in the way when he’s taking part in his eSports sim racing.Verstappen continued: “Nino has tried [to sit on my lap while I race] but the cats try that as well.”Sometimes I have a cat stuck between the pedals!”Max Verstappen has three cats and a dog – who barely give him a moment’s peaceCredit: Instagram @maxverstappen1Verstappen joked the animals love to disturb him while he’s gamingCredit: Instagram @kellypiquetPierre GaslyTHE Alpine star has never been shy in showing off the pet pup he owns alongside Portuguese model-influencer partner Kika Gomes.Simba, who Gasly calls a “superstar” and claims “entertains our life”, even has his own Instagram page.With just over 7,000 followers, he’s got a way to go to catch up with Roscoe.But Simba has an adoring legion of followers who comment on his posts, from strolling in the paddock to flying high in a private jet.He may not have the following of Roscoe, but he’s still living the pampered pooch life.Recently, animal-loving Gasly was mortified after accidentally running over a rabbit at the Emilia Romagna GP.Pierre Gasly and partner Kika Gomes are proud dog parents to SimbaCredit: GettyGasly claims Simba ‘entertains our lives’Credit: Instagram @pierregaslyCarlos SainzTHE Williams star, 30, has always been gushing about his dog, believed to be a Wirehaired Pointer.The former Ferrari racer’s pooch features on his social media regularly, with Pinon even having a pup of his own – while his mum appears to own at least two Maltese Terriers.On his love of the animals, Sainz said: “Everyone who has a dog knows what I’m saying…”He’s like your best mate, the one who’s always happy for you and when you’re around.”It makes you feel special.”Pinon is my best friend… my favourite living thing.”Carlos Sainz is a proud owner of pet pooch, PinonCredit: AlamyCharles LeclercLAST year, Leclerc, 27, beamed as he revealed he was finally a dog owner, having grown up around them.The Ferrari star welcomed blonde miniature Dachshund, Leo, to the family in April 2024.In an official F1 press conference, Leclerc revealed: “I’ve always had dogs within my family, but never had my own. And yeah, he joined last Monday and it’s been great.”My girlfriend [looks after him when I’m away], but I do take care of him when I’m at home.”Leo is regularly spotted in the paddock with the Monegasque racer – even boasting his own VIP pass – with fans often joking things like “living his best life” and “Leo is the main character” on social media.The pampered pup has even been spotted aboard Leclerc’s yacht! What a way to travel…Charles Leclerc regularly brings pet pup Leo to racesCredit: GettyLeo is all over Leclerc’s Instagram, including a snap of him on a yachtCredit: Instagram @charles_leclercLeo has his very own VIP paddock passCredit: Instagram @charles_leclercLeo is often spotted playing with Gasly’s pup, SimbaCredit: Shutterstock EditorialLeo is also pals with Hamilton’s famous dog, RoscoeCredit: INSTAGRAMNico HulkenbergTHE F1 veteran, 37, recently scored his best finish for six years by finishing fifth at the Spanish GP in his Sauber.And away from the track he celebrated with this family – including a fluffy black and white Pomeranian, presumably ironically named Zeus.He recently shared a snap of the two cuddled up in bed after returning from racing with the caption: “Happy daddy is back home.”Zeus has his own Instagram page with an impressive 15,000 followers.Like all other F1 pups, he lives the high life – with Zeus snapped in a Porsche, outside Chanel and even on a private jet.Nico Hulkenberg has a fluffy Pomeranian called ZeusCredit: Instagram @zeus_hulkenbergZeus has a taste for the finer things in lifeCredit: Instagram @zeus_hulkenbergHulkenberg regularly shares snaps of pooch Zeus on social mediaCredit: Instagram @zeus_hulkenbergZhou GuanyuSPENDING 2025 as Ferrari’s reserve driver, Guanyu, 26, has a little extra time to spend with his loved ones – which includes a pet munchkin cat, called Sweetcorn.The kitty has nearly 73,000 Instagram followers, with a mixture of sweet and hilarious pics scattered all over her feed.Sweetcorn has been snapped in a go-kart, surrounded by racing helmets far bigger than her… and, like seemingly all cats, even sitting on his laptop while he’s trying to work.Zhou even wore a helmet covered in snaps of him and his beloved cat.During Zhou’s season at Sauber last year, Sweetcorn was even seen roaming the paddock as the team’s Instagram account poked fun of Leclerc by captioning a picture: “Move over Leo, there’s a new paddock pet in town.”Zhou Guanyu owns a munchkin cat called SweetcornCredit: Instagram @ymlzhou.jpgSweetcorn has gone viral for some hilarious snaps on her own Instagram pageCredit: Instagram @ymlzhou.jpgZhou even had pics of Sweetcorn plastered on his helmet at SauberCredit: Instagram @ymlzhou.jpgValtteri BottasTHE list has been pretty dog-heavy… with Albon skewing the numbers for Team Cat.But Finnish legend Bottas, 35, currently a reserve driver for Mercedes, bucks the trend entirely… by owning a REINDEER.In December 2020, partner Tiffany Cromwell, herself a professional cyclist, posted a snap captioned: ‘Welcome to the family Rosa.”Because everyone needs a pet reindeer in their life… don’t they?Read More on The Sun”She’s going to live the best life in the Arctic!”It’s just the sort of wild antics you’d expect from Bottas – who once released a calendar featuring pictures of his bare bum, called Bottass, naturally.Valtteri Bottas doesn’t have a cat or a dog… but a pet reindeer called RosaCredit: Instagram @valtteribottas More

    • 275 Shares108 Views

      in Motorsport

      ‘I remember him as he was – not lying in a bed’: Michael Schumacher’s F1 boss gives tragic insight into star’s health

      by

      MICHAEL Schumacher’s former boss has given rare insight into the F1 legend’s condition – 12 years after his life-changing skiing accident.While the German racing icon, now 56, hasn’t been seen in public since 2013, his ex-manager at Benetton Flavio Briatore says he speaks often with Schumacher’s family.Flavio Briatore (right) has revealed insight into the health of F1 icon Michael Schumacher (left)Credit: Press AssociationSchumacher pictured on the shoulders of Briatore and race director Tom Walkinshaw after his 1994 World Championship victoryCredit: AlamyHis wife Corinna gave an update on his health in a rare 2021 documentaryCredit: AlamyBriatore, 75, appeared to confirm to an Italian newspaper that Schumacher is bed-bound, amid scarce details of his condition due to his wife Corinna’s commitment to privacy.”If I close my eyes,” he told Corriere della Sera, “I see him smiling after a victory.”I prefer to remember him like that rather than him just lying on a bed. Corinna and I talk often, though.”Briatore’s update follows a claim by his ex-wife Elisabetta Gregoraci, who said: “Michael doesn’t speak, he communicates with his eyes.Read more sport news”Only three people can visit him and I know who they are.”Claims that Schumacher can no longer speak were echoed by his son Mick in a 2021 Netflix documentary about his father’s life.The 26-year-old driver said: “I think dad and me, we would understand each other now in a different way now.”In the 2021 documentary, Corinna gave a rare update, revealing Schumacher is still undergoing rehabilitation and is “different, but here” following his life-changing injuries.Most read in MotorsportIn April, Schumacher signed a charity helmet with help from Corinna.Emotional moment Michael Schumacher’s son and Sebastian Vettel pay tribute to stricken F1 legend The helmet will be auctioned to raise money for Stewart’s charity Race Against Dementia.Johnny Herbert, Schumacher’s teammate at Benetton between 1994 to 1995, described the signature as an “emotional” moment.He told FastSlots: “It’s wonderful news that Michael Schumacher signed Jackie Stewart’s helmet. It was a wonderful moment.”We haven’t seen something emotional like this in years, and hopefully, it’s a sign. “Hopefully, Michael is on the mend. It’s been a long, horrible journey for the family, and maybe we’ll hopefully see him in the F1 paddock soon.”Schumacher is one of the most successful F1 drivers of all time, winning world titles in 1994, 1995 and five consecutive years from 2000 to 2004. He also racked up 71 fastest laps and 155 podiums during his racing career.Read More on The SunWhen asked who the greatest driver of all time is, Briatore told Corriere de Sera: “I don’t know who the greatest is, because we’ve had Schumacher, Senna, Alonso.”Now, the number one is definitely (Max) Verstappen. I have two cars at Alpine, so I would like to have two Verstappens.”What do we know about Schumacher since his accident?MICHAEL Schumacher’s life changed forever on December 29, 2013, when a skiing accident left the seven-time F1 champion with a severe brain injury. Since then, his family has protected his privacy, with only a select few remaining in contact with the racing legend.December 29, 2013 – The skiing accident: Schumacher suffers a life-threatening head injury while skiing off-piste in Méribel, France. He falls and hits his head on a rock, causing severe brain trauma despite wearing a helmet. He is airlifted to a hospital in Grenoble, where he undergoes two emergency surgeries. Doctors place him in a medically induced coma to reduce swelling in his brain.January 2014 – Schumacher fights for his life: Schumacher remains in a coma. Doctors describe his condition as “critical but stable”. His family, led by wife Corinna, remains at his bedside. The world’s F1 community rallies behind him, with fans holding vigils outside the hospital.June 2014 – Schumacher brought out of his coma: After nearly six months, Schumacher is brought out of his coma. His family confirms he is no longer in a coma but gives no further health details. He is transferred from Grenoble to a rehabilitation facility in Lausanne, Switzerland.September 2014 – Back home: Schumacher is moved to his family home near Lake Geneva. Corinna announces he will continue his recovery at home, with a dedicated medical team.2015–2018 – Mystery surrounding his health: Reports suggest Schumacher is receiving round-the-clock medical care at home, costing £50,000 per week. Jean Todt reveals he still visits Schumacher and that they watch F1 races together.May 2017 – German magazine sued by Schumacher’s family: The magazine Bunte has to pay Michael Schumacher €50,000 (£42,000) in damages after claiming in 2015 that Schumacher would walk again. The Hamburg regional court determined that the statement was false and infringed upon Schumacher’s right to privacy.September 2019 – Schumacher secretly transferred to Paris: French media reports that Schumacher is taken to Paris for stem cell therapy at the Georges-Pompidou Hospital. The procedure is led by renowned surgeon Dr. Philippe Menasché. Details of the treatment remain undisclosed.December 2019 – Manager issues rare statement: Schumacher’s longtime manager Sabine Kehm says his condition will remain private. She dismisses speculation and false reports about his health.September 2021 – Netflix documentary “Schumacher” released: A new Netflix documentary, Schumacher, provides rare insights into his life. Corinna speaks publicly about his condition for the first time, saying: “Michael is here. Different, but he’s here, and that gives us strength.”December 2023 – 10 years since the accident: Schumacher turns 55. The anniversary of his accident is marked by tributes from the F1 world. Jean Todt confirms he still sees Schumacher regularly and describes his visits as “full of affection”.September 2024 – Daughter Gina’s wedding: Gina Schumacher, 27, marries longtime boyfriend Iain Bethke at the family’s £27million Majorca villa. Reports claim Schumacher attends the wedding, but close friend Johnny Herbert later calls it “A1 fake news”. Guests are reportedly required to hand over their phones to prevent leaks.December 2024 – Schumacher to become a grandfather: Gina announces she is pregnant, three months after her wedding. She shares the news on Instagram, writing: “Impatiently awaiting the arrival of our little girl.”Schumacher’s initials ‘M.S’ can be seen signed on the bottom part of the helmet belonging to fellow F1 icon Sir Jackie StewartCredit: Matt Wardle and Bell RacingSchumacher kisses Briatore in 2000Credit: Reuters More

    • 213 Shares198 Views

      in Motorsport

      Who is Michael Dunlop and how many races has he won at the Isle of Man TT?

      by

      THE Dunlop name has long been synonymous with the Isle of Man TT.Joey Dunlop is the most famous Isle of Man TT rider of them all – with the overall winner of the event handed the Joey Dunlop Cup each year. Michael Dunlop has become the record holder for most wins at the Isle of Man TTDunlop has already won another race at the 2025 eventThe Northern Irishman also has a statue built on the island.Joey held the record for almost 25 years after his untimely death following a crash in 2000.Now his record has been overtaken – with Michael Dunlop the man to take it.Who is Michael Dunlop?Michael Dunlop is a motorcycle rider most famous for his exploits in the Isle of Man TT.He comes from that famous racing family as the son of Robert Dunlop, brother of William.Dunlop is also the nephew of Joey.Michael made his Isle of Man TT debut in 2007, finishing 25th aged just 18.Since then he has had one of the most spectacular careers in the sport.His first win came in the Supersport TT in 2009, while he has won four races in a single event three times – in 2013, 2014, and 2023.Since 2010, the only year he didn’t win a race was in 2015, when did not finish in four races and finished second in one other.With FOUR wins in 2024 he passed uncle Joey as the most successful rider in the history of the Isle of Man TT – as well as taking home a bit of prize money for his wins.Dunlop has been back at it in 2025, winning the Supersport TT Race 1 on day one of the event.Who has won the most races at the Isle of Man TT?Until this year, Joey Dunlop had held the record since 2000.Joey won three races that year, aged 48, just weeks before his death in Estonia in another race.John McGuinness had come closest to threatening Dunlop’s record, winning 23 races between 1999 and 2015.But it was Michael who finally managed to overtake the great man.His win in the Supertwins TT made it win No 27 and his eighth in just 17 races since 2022.He went on to win two more races in 2024 – making it four wins for a second consecutive year – to take his overall tally to 29.Most Isle of Man TT winsMichael Dunlop – 30Joey Dunlop – 26John McGuinness – 23Dave Molyneux – 17Ian Hutchinson – 16Mike Hailwood, Ben Birchall, Tom Birchall, Peter Hickman – 14Bruce Anstey – 12Steve Hislop, Phillip McCallen – 11Giacomo Agostini, Robert Fisher, Stanley Woods – 10Mick Boddice, David Jeffries, Ian Lougher, Siegfried Schauzu – 9Michael Dunlop in action on the Isle of ManCredit: PACEMAKER PRESSWhat did Michael Dunlop say about breaking the record?Michael Dunlop said that “everyone’s inspiration was to be a Joey Dunlop around the Isle of Man”.He said: “I’m no better than Joey, never was.”Joey’s record stood for 24 years and it’s an honour. Joey was a special talent.”My record will be beaten one day but I don’t care.”He also said he had to overcome some issues on the day to win.”We had an issue in first practice and were struggling a wee bit but the boys worked hard on it and the bike was mint. “We had to push on as I knew we would.” More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      Isle of Man TT rider in terrifying ‘140mph slap’ crash and left battered and bruised after he is airlifted to hospital

      by

      THE fastest rider to ever lap the Isle of Man TT course was airlifted to hospital after crashing at 140mph during practice.Peter Hickman came off the road just 10 minutes into qualifying on Friday evening after falling at the famed Kerrowmoar section. Peter Hickman was in a terrifying ‘140mph slap’ crash on FridayHours before his crash, Hickman posted the second-fastest time in Superbike qualifyingThe 38-year-old is currently wearing arm brace and left hospital in a temporary wheelchair after being dischargedHickman has paid tribute to the emergency staff and TT marshals who came to his aid, having been jetted to Noble’s Hospital.The 8Ten Racing rider and co-owner spent two nights in intensive care after suffering chest, back, shoulder, and facial injuries.The 38-year-old has two black eyes, is currently wearing an arm brace and left hospital in a temporary wheelchair after being discharged.Hickman broke his silence writing to fans: “Well this isn’t quite how I’d planned my TT to go.READ MORE SPORT NEWS“Had a bit of a get off Friday night… nothing quite like a 140mph slap against the Manx countryside. Battered and bruised, but we’ll be back.“Very fortunate to be looked after by SUOMY Helmets, Weise Motorcycle Clothing, Five Advanced Gloves and Frey Daytona, the best in the business.“And a massive thanks to the amazing IOM TT Marshals, the TT medical team, and staff at Noble’s Hospital.”The session, the third of the day which got under way at 6:30pm, was red flagged at 6:40pm before any riders had completed a lap.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe 14-time race winner will not participate in the remainder of the TT after his terrifying accident.Hickman was expected to be among the frontrunners, alongside Michael Dunlop and Davey Todd, challenging for race wins this week.Inside Taycan Turbo GT Porsche that can hit 200mph as SunSport’s Isabelle Barker is taken for a spin by Formula E safety car driverIn 2023, Hickman set a course pace record of 136.358mph that still stands.Hours before his crash, he posted the second-fastest time in Superbike qualifying.Hickman entered this year’s TT in a new-look team alongside Todd.They set up 8TEN Racing together for this year’s road racing commitments.But only Todd, who won the Superbike race on Monday, will continue with the TT, with Hickman’s focus now on recovery.Hickman actually crashed in the same section last year, with the Kerrormoar corner immediately following Ginger Hall.In 2015, the dare devil broke his back, neck, two ribs and suffered a punctured lung only to want to climb back on his bike the following day.Hickman’s business partner and team-mate Davey Todd won the Superbike TT race on the Isle of Man on Monday More

    • 250 Shares168 Views

      in Motorsport

      Isle of TT rider in terrifying ‘140mph slap’ crash and left battered and bruised after he is airlifted to hospital

      by

      THE fastest rider to ever lap the Isle of Man TT course was airlifted to hospital after crashing at 140mph during practice.Peter Hickman came off the road just 10 minutes into qualifying on Friday evening after falling at the famed Kerrowmoar section. Peter Hickman was in a terrifying ‘140mph slap’ crash on FridayHours before his crash, Hickman posted the second-fastest time in Superbike qualifyingThe 38-year-old is currently wearing arm brace and left hospital in a temporary wheelchair after being dischargedHickman has paid tribute to the emergency staff and TT marshals who came to his aid, having been jetted to Noble’s Hospital.The 8Ten Racing rider and co-owner spent two nights in intensive care after suffering chest, back, shoulder, and facial injuries.The 38-year-old has two black eyes, is currently wearing an arm brace and left hospital in a temporary wheelchair after being discharged.Hickman broke his silence writing to fans: “Well this isn’t quite how I’d planned my TT to go.READ MORE SPORT NEWS“Had a bit of a get off Friday night… nothing quite like a 140mph slap against the Manx countryside. Battered and bruised, but we’ll be back.“Very fortunate to be looked after by SUOMY Helmets, Weise Motorcycle Clothing, Five Advanced Gloves and Frey Daytona, the best in the business.“And a massive thanks to the amazing IOM TT Marshals, the TT medical team, and staff at Noble’s Hospital.”The session, the third of the day which got under way at 6:30pm, was red flagged at 6:40pm before any riders had completed a lap.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe 14-time race winner will not participate in the remainder of the TT after his terrifying accident.Hickman was expected to be among the frontrunners, alongside Michael Dunlop and Davey Todd, challenging for race wins this week.Inside Taycan Turbo GT Porsche that can hit 200mph as SunSport’s Isabelle Barker is taken for a spin by Formula E safety car driverIn 2023, Hickman set a course pace record of 136.358mph that still stands.Hours before his crash, he posted the second-fastest time in Superbike qualifying.Hickman entered this year’s TT in a new-look team alongside Todd.They set up 8TEN Racing together for this year’s road racing commitments.But only Todd, who won the Superbike race on Monday, will continue with the TT, with Hickman’s focus now on recovery.Hickman actually crashed in the same section last year, with the Kerrormoar corner immediately following Ginger Hall.In 2015, the dare devil broke his back, neck, two ribs and suffered a punctured lung only to want to climb back on his bike the following day.Hickman’s business partner and team-mate Davey Todd won the Superbike TT race on the Isle of Man on Monday More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Motorsport

      Isle of Man TT 2025: Schedule, results, race times, live stream & TV channel as iconic race RETURNS

      by

      THE Isle of Man TT is back THIS WEEK as some of Britain’s top riders race around country lanes at 130mph!Dubbed by many as the ‘world’s most dangerous race’, the iconic course has claimed the lives of 270 people since its first edition in 1907.Davey Todd will be hoping to defend his Senior TT title at the Isle of Man TTMichael Dunlop has the most wins EVER and is looking for moreLast year, Northern Irish legend Michael Dunlop broke the record for most wins on the course and is back for more this time around.Dunlop broke uncle Joey’s record of 26 last year with FOUR wins out of seven to take his overall tally to an incredible 29.There has already been huge drama in the qualifying section with Peter Hickman involved in a major crash.Hickman is one of the most recognisable faces in the Isle of Man TT and has won 14 races in the last five events.The BMW rider has since been released from hospital but will not participate in this year’s racing.Here’s everything you need to know for the week ahead.What is the Isle of Man TT?The annual event sees professional and semi-professional riders race around the Isle of Man in a time-trial.The ‘TT’ in the name stands for Tourist Trophy, rather than time trial.Most read in MotorsportAnyone from any country can apply to race as long as they have a valid National Entrants or FIM Sponsors Licence for Road Racing, plus a driver’s licence.Last week was the qualifying section and this week is the racing.There are six main events – the Senior TT, Supersport TT, Superbike TT, Superstock TT, Supertwin TT and Sidecar TT – with all roads on the island closed between 9am and 5pm.The Senior TT is the main attraction and has almost run continuously since 1911.It was not held due to World War I (1915-19) and World War II (1940-46), then because of foot and mouth disease in 2001, bad weather in 2012 and Covid-19 in 2020 and 2021.Davey Todd won the race last year.Isle of Man TT 2025 schedule and resultsRace Day 1 – Monday, June 29am: Mountain Road closed10am: All roads closed12pm: Superbike TT Race – Winner: Davey Todd2pm: Sidecar TT Race 1 – Winners: Ryan & Callum Crowe3.15pm: Supersport TT Race 1 – Winner: Michael Dunlop5pm: Roads re-openRace Day 2 – Tuesday, June 39am: Mountain Road closed10am: All roads closed10.45pm: Superstock TT Race 112.30pm: Sidecar shakedown2pm: Supertwin TT Race 14pm: Solo practice5pm: Roads re-openRace Day 3 – Wednesday, June 49am: Mountain Road closed10am: All roads closed10.45pm: Supersport TT Race 22pm: Sidecar TT Race 24pm: Solo practice5pm: Roads re-openRest Day – Thursday, June 5TBC – ContingencyRace Day 4 – Friday, June 69am: Mountain Road closed10am: All roads closed10.45pm: Superstock TT Race 22pm: Supertwin TT Race 24pm: Senior TT practice9.30pm: Roads re-openRace Day 5 – Saturday, June 79am: Mountain Road closed10am: All roads closed10.45pm: Senior TT Race9.30pm: Roads re-openWhat TV channel is the Isle of Man TT on and is there a live stream?The 2025 Isle of Man TT will not be broadcast live on any TV.Instead, race fans will need to purchase TT+ which costs £23.99 for full coverage of every race, plus behind-the-scenes access and in-depth analysis.TT+ can be live streamed via the website on any compatible device.Alternatively, ITV4 has nightly highlights every day at 9pm.What is the prize money for the Isle of Man TT?The total prize money for the 2025 Isle of Man TT sits at £353,115, which is a large increase from last year.The prize pots are as follows: Senior TT – £88,725Superbike TT – £65,100Supersport TT per race (2) – £29,820Sidecar TT per race (2) – £24,675Superstock TT per race (2) – £24,675Supertwin TT per race (2) – £20,475A full breakdown for the 2025 prize money can be found here.Who has won the most Isle of Man TT races?Michael Dunlop is the most successful rider at the Isle of Man TT.He won four races in 2024 to take his overall tally to 29.Read More on The SunThe Northern Irishman had been trailing his legendary uncle, Joey, heading into last year’s event – Joey had won 26.Michael’s four wins in 2024 added to his four wins in 2023. More