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      Meet Faiq Bolkiah, the richest footballer in world, whose uncle is Sultan of Brunei, and is heir to £13bn fortune

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      MEET the world’s richest footballer Faiq Bolkiah, the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei.Faiq Bolkiah, 23, now plays in Portugal for Maritimo, following an unsuccessful spell on our shores with Leicester City.
      Faiq Bolkiah is the richest young footballer in the world and was formerly of Leicester CityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Faiq Bolkiah is the nephew of the Sultan of BruneiCredit: Instagram @fjbolkiah
      The dynamic winger is one of the heirs to Hassanal Bolkiah’s £13billion fortune.
      That dwarfs the worth of the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi – making Bolkiah the wealthiest living footballer.
      His dad is Jefri Bolkiah, a brother of the oil tycoon, so that makes Faiq a member of their royal family.
      But that hasn’t stopped Faiq from shunning his family’s billions to pursue a career in football.
      Let SunSport introduce you to the man who really doesn’t need to work for a living.
      Competition was fierce for him in his youth days…
      After playing youth football for AFC Newbury, Faiq signed a one-year deal with Southampton’s famed youth academy in 2009.
      He didn’t quite turn enough heads to secure a full-time contract and went on trial at Arsenal in 2013, playing for the Gunners in the 2013 Lion City Cup.
      Faiq Bolkiah could have lived in a palace like the Sultan of BruneiCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Faiq Bolkiah was once on Chelsea’s booksCredit: Chelsea FC
      Faiq Bolkiah playing for Leicester City’s reservesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      A Rolls Royce like this could have been a chariot for Faiq BolkiahCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Faiq got himself on the scoresheet in that tournament against a Singapore youth selection.
      Alerted to his availability, Chelsea then swooped and offered him a two-year deal in 2014. But he left Stamford Bridge in December, 2015 to sign for Leicester in a three-year deal.
      He captains his international side…
      Despite not playing a professional game in England yet, Faiq has pulled on the international shirt of Brunei six times, finding the net once.
      Faiq Bolkiah has captain the Brunei international football teamCredit: Getty – Contributor
      He even captained the side in the 2017 Aceh World Solidarity Tsunami Cup.
      Incidentally, he was born in Los Angeles, so he could’ve represented the United States. But he was loyal to his family and stayed close to his roots.
      Faiq Bolkiah was loyal to his family and turned down a chance to play for the USCredit: AFP – Getty
      Faiq’s dad is quite the character…
      He may have an innocent demeanour, but his father Jefri Bolkiah was known as the playboy of the Brunei royal family.
      Jefri reportedly lived quite the life of excess, reportedly blowing around £10billion in 15-years as head of the Brunei Investment agency.
      At one point, he was said to be spending £35m a month on cars, watches, erotic white gold pens and up to a £1m a hit on karaoke parties with a swarm of beautiful women.
      Jefri Bolkiah celebrates his birthday with his sonCredit: Instagram @fjbolkiah
      Jefri Bolkiah was the playboy of the Brunei royal familyCredit: Rex Features
      Faiq Bolkiah might have had an easier life and lived like a prince if he wasn’t a footballerCredit: 1998 Julian Parker
      Faiq Bolkiah’s cousins enjoy a lavish lifestyle in their own countryCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Jefri was also believed to have owned 2,300 cars at the height of his wealth, including a fleet of Bentleys, Ferraris and Rolls-Royces.
      However, his pride and joy is a yacht inappropriately called ‘Tits’ which had tenders called ‘Nipple 1’ and ‘Nipple 2’.
      Faiq Bolkiah stands to inherit a boat called TitsCredit: Big Pictures
      The Tits has tenders called Nipple 1 and Nipple 2Credit: Big Pictures
      Jefri wasn’t afraid to embrace erotica either, once commissioning artist J. Seward Johnson to create a £500,000 sexually-explicit statue of himself and his ex-fiancee.
      Amusingly, he once splashed around £5million on a rug that was woven with gold thread and jewels.
      A £5m rug bought by Jefri BolkiahCredit: PA:Press Association
      A set of erotic pens in white gold owned by Jefri BolkiahCredit: PA:Press Association
      An erotic watch owned by Jefri Bolkiah made of white gold and platinumCredit: PA:Press Association
      Michael Jackson was on speed dial when he needed him…
      Being a rich kid has its perks, especially if you’re Faiq.
      When dad Jefri wanted to celebrate his milestone 50th birthday, he also wanted to impress his then 7-year-old son.
      Michael Jackson performed a private concert for Faiq BolkiahCredit: Getty – Contributor
      So what did he do? He only flew in the ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson to perform a private concert for him and his family.
      Jefri paid Jacko around £12.5 million for the privilege, which was chump change for the Brunei royal family.
      The privilege of having Michael Jackson perform privately cost Jefri Bolkiah £12.5mCredit: Reuters
      Faiq Bolkiah has shunned a throne like the Sultan of Brunei for a rainy night in LeicesterCredit: AFP – Getty
      Making sure Michael was suitably catered for, Jefri also built an entire stadium for the occasion.But Faiq is determined to shun his riches to make it as a professional footballer…
      “I’ve played football since as early as I can remember and from a young age I’ve always enjoyed going out on the field and having the ball at my feet,” he once said in a rare interview.

      Ex-Wolves boss Nuno Espirito was said to be interested in signing Faiq BolkiahCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      “My parents have always been supportive in helping me to achieve my dreams of being a footballer.
      “They trained me hard both psychologically and physically through my childhood years, so I have to say they are my role models.”
      Faiq Bolkiah turned his back on a lavish lifestyle full of goldCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Sultan of Brunei has an estimated worth of £22bnCredit: Reuters
      Faiq Bolkiah insists his family have had a big influence on his careerCredit: AFP or licensors
      With determination like that, he could be a big hit in Portugal.
      However, not all is lost.
      After all, if it doesn’t work out for him, it’s not as if he’s got nothing to fall back on.
      Leicester winger Demarai Gray scores with ‘unsavable’ shot for England U21 vs Latvia U21 More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd’s Class of 92 kids, from Neville’s son at Inter Miami to Scholes’ netball-mad daughter and Beckham’s clan

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      MEET the kids of Manchester United’s Class of 92, who are branching out for themselves.The offspring of the likes of Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Phil Neville and more are making their own waves in life.
      The Class of 92 before they starred for Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
      Diving into the worlds of modelling, music, football and even netball, these fearless children refuse to rest in the shadows of their famous fathers.
      Forget the Red Devils, here’s what their Little Devils are doing instead.
      PHIL NEVILLE
      HARVEY, 19
      Like his dad, Harvey plays full-back and can operate in midfield.
      He played his youth football with Manchester United, Manchester City and Valencia, before moving to Miami when his dad Phil scored the Inter Miami job.
      After impressing for parent club Fort Lauderdale, Harvey has been promoted to Inter’s first team for next season.
      The emphasis next season, after missing out on the playoffs, will be on youth.
      Harvey Neville in action for Fort LauderdaleCredit: Getty
      Dad Phil Neville has promoted son Harvey to the Inter Miami first team squadCredit: Getty
      DAVID BECKHAM
      CRUZ, 16
      The youngest boy of the Beckham clan, Cruz seems to have inherited mum Victoria’s genes for singing.
      Tipped to be the next Justin Bieber, his proud mother often shares clips of him performing on social media.
      Famously, he has already had one hit single – If Every Day Was Christmas, which peaked at No7 in 2016.
      Recently, he teased fans by releasing a clip recording in the studio.
      Cruz Beckham is a wannabe pop star tipped to be the next Justin BieberCredit: instagram.com/victoriabeckham
      Cruz recently teased fans by releasing a clip recording new music in a studioCredit: instagram
      ROMEO, 19
      Following Harvey into the Inter Miami first team could be David Beckham’s son, Romeo.
      He trained for a season at Arsenal’s academy, until he was released a season later.
      After momentarily quitting football for tennis, for which he trained with Andy Murray, Romeo returned to football in 2020.
      Currently, the forward is playing for Fort Lauderdale, who he has played six times for without scoring.
      Romeo Beckham is making his name for himself at Fort Lauderdale
      Andy Murray trained Romeo when he considered getting into tennisCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      BROOKLYN, 22
      The eldest of any child from the Class of 92, the weight of expectation on Brooklyn’s shoulders was massive being the first son of Becks.
      But, he shunned sport after initially dabbling with football and appeared on the front covers of fashion magazines, including L’Uomo Vogue and  T:The New York Times Style Magazine.
      However, its in fashion photography Brooklyn has grown – shooting campaigns for Burberry and releasing his first book, What I See.
      In 2020, he also announced his engagement to Hollywood actress Nicola Peltz. While most recently, he signed a reported £1million deal to become the face of Superdry.
      Brooklyn Beckham is making waves in the fashion worldCredit: Getty
      As a photographer, Brooklyn has been asked to do campaigns for Burberry and shot his own bookCredit: Instagram
      Brooklyn got engaged to American actress Nicola PeltzCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ROBBIE SAVAGE
      CHARLIE, 18
      Although dad Robbie didn’t have much of a career at United, there is a genuine feeling Charlie Savage might.
      Like his father, he’s a central midfield player – but that’s where the similarities end.
      Rather than being a ball-winner, he’s technically a better player.
      This season, Charlie has appeared seven times for the U23’s, and is a Wales U19 international.
      Charlie Savage is embarking on a football career and is on Man Utd’s booksCredit: Getty
      Dad Robbie Savage never played a first team game at Old Trafford
      PAUL SCHOLES
      ALICIA, 20
      The glam daughter of ex-Man Utd playmaker Scholes, Alicia has forged a career for herself in netball.
      She recently signed for London Pulse, after stepping down from Manchester Thunder.
      Alicia has also featured for England’s U21 team – sharing the same competitive sporting spirit as her dad.
      Last month, a video of Scholes biting on her toenails went viral and shocked fans.
      The daughter of Paul Scholes is a netball starCredit: taken from instagram/alicia scholes
      Alicia with her proud mum, Claire Froggatt and dad ScholesCredit: Instagram / @paulscholesaaa
      ARRON, 21
      Paul’s oldest child, Arron famously had a brush with the law in 2019.
      He was found guilty of punching a former school pal outside a pub in Oldham.
      However, he was spared time in jail and forced to pay a fine of £150 to the injured party.
      Arron is a footballer too, and plays for ninth-tier Chadderton FC in the North West Counties League.
      Arron, far right, had a brush with the law in 2019Credit: Getty

      RYAN GIGGS
      ZACH, 15
      The youngest on our list, and perhaps with the toughest boots to fill, is aspiring footballer Zach, who is on Manchester United’s books.
      His dad Ryan played 963 times for the club – winning 13 Premier League titles, as well as the Champions League twice.
      Back in October, Zach made his bow for the U18’s in a Premier League Cup game against Wolves.
      However, he’s not a flying winger like his old man. This Giggs is a natural centre back and can play either full-back positions.
      Zach Giggs in action for Wales U16’sCredit: Sportsfile
      Zach, who is on Man Utd’s books, has a long way to go before emulating his famous father’s careerCredit: Reuters
      LIBERTY, 18
      Ryan’s glam daughter, 18, was born from his marriage to Stacey Cooke, who now dates The Wanted’s Max George.
      She is a typical teenager, who loves bowling with pals and fancy holidays in Ibiza.
      Giggs is very protective of his daughter, and once revealed he feared she had got a last-minute ticket to the Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena in 2017, where 22 people were killed after a terrorist attack.
      Fashionable Libby shares her lifestyle on Instagram, where she has almost 5,000 followers.
      Liberty Giggs shares her glam lifestyle on Instagram to her thousands of followers
      Victoria Beckham shouts at David as he cuts off their son Cruz ‘singing like an angel’ More

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      in Soccer

      I’m A Celebrity star David Ginola dazzled on the football pitch, but died for eight minutes after a severe heart attack

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      FRENCH fancy David Ginola will be the football fans’ favourite in I’m A Celebrity this year.The ex-Spurs star, 54, will be braving the elements and creepy-crawlies at Gwrych Castle, North Wales, in the new series that kicks off on November 21.
      Former footballer David Ginola is ready to appear on this year’s I’m A CelebrityCredit: PA
      In the 1990s, Ginola was one of the heartthrobs of the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      But that shouldn’t be too difficult for the former Premier League star, who was used to evading the English game’s hatchet men.
      Ginola starred at Newcastle, Spurs, Villa and Everton on our shores, once scooping both the PFA and Football Writers’ awards for player of the season.
      In the 1990s, he was recognised as one of the pin-ups of the game – scoring off the pitch with L’Oreal, for who he proudly became an ambassador after reportedly replacing Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston in the role.
      However, in 2016 Ginola’s life was threatened by a heart attack that left him dead for eight minutes.
      He was revived by a defibrillator and rushed to hospital for a quadruple bypass operation.
      That same year, he would find love with model Maëva Denat – who is 22 years his junior.
      In 2018, at the age of 51, Ginola became a father again to their daughter.
      BLESSED BALLER
      Skilful, but often misunderstood, Ginola was your classic maverick footballer.
      He was called the best in the world by Dutch legend Johan Cruyff, another master on the pitch.
      The elegant winger began a career in England with Newcastle, who paid PSG £2.5million for his services in 1995.
      Ginola first starred at Newcastle UnitedCredit: Action Images
      French winger Ginola’s best years were with SpursCredit: Reuters
      In his later years, Ginola was once called fat by a former managerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      He was an integral part of Kevin Keegan’s ‘Entertainers’ who finished second in the Premier League in the 1995-96 season, their strongest league finish in decades.
      But it was at Tottenham where he showed his real brilliance, winning both the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards in 1999.
      It was at Spurs he won his only piece of English silverware – a League Cup medal.
      His time with Aston Villa wasn’t so well regarded, with boss John Gregory calling him too fat to play.
      Famously, he proved his manager wrong – whipping his top off and flashing his abs after scoring his first goal for the club.
      Ginola retired from football in 2002, following a spell at Everton, aged 35.
      HAIR MODEL
      As footballers became celebrities thanks to the growth of the Premier League and its foreign imports, handsome players like Ginola reaped the benefits.
      In the mid 90s, he was often seen at glam parties mingling with supermodels, including Kate Moss at the Cannes Film Festival.
      The poster boy of the beautiful game even appeared on the catwalk as a model for Nino Cerruti’s spring/summer collection in 1996.
      During his heyday, Ginola was invited to the best parties and mixed with models like Kate MossCredit: Reuters
      In 1997, Ginola became the face – and hair – of L’OrealCredit: The Advertising Archives
      But it was his turn as an ambassador for hair giants L’Oreal in a 1997 TV ad that had his female following fawning adoration.
      He was the first man to be hired by the French company in the role.
      And he replaced Friends star Jennifer Aniston as face of the brand – spilling the great line, “L’Oreal, because I’m worth it”.
      CHEATING DEATH
      Ginola’s love of red wine, cheese and red meat has led his partner Maëva to say he eats ‘like a Viking’.
      It was a diet that nearly cost the bon vivant his life in 2016.
      During a charity match in Mandelieu-La Napoule, southern France, Ginola collapsed as he was running, falling face first into the turf.
      Motionless, he was attended to by paramedics who discovered that he had swallowed his tongue and suffered a cardiac arrest.
      “My heart stopped for eight minutes at least”, he told The Sun exclusively back in 2017.
      “There was no pulse. I was dead. Then the air ambulance arrived and they hooked me up to a defibrillator.”
      Ginola has a love of wine and had a poor diet before his heart attackCredit: PA:Press Association
      In 2017, Ginola suffered a serious heart attack and was dead for eight minutes before a defibrillator restarted his pulseCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ironically, Ginola was a guest for the Newcastle vs Spurs game earlier this season, where a fan suffered a heart attackCredit: AFP
      After four electric shocks, Ginola’s pulse began again.
      He was rushed to hospital, where doctors performed a six-hour quadruple bypass operation that saved his life.
      Most recently, David was a guest in the studio for Sky Sports’ coverage of Newcastle’s game against Spurs at St James’ Park, when the match was stopped after a fan suffered a heart attack.
      Notably moved by the situation, Ginola admitted it brought back “weird memories” for him as the situation unfolded.
      However, he delivered an honest and frank discussion about his own experience, while urging the public to learn CPR.
      IN LOVE AGAIN
      Ginola, who also appears on TalkSPORT, reportedly left his wife Coraline of 25 years for his current partner, the stunning model Maëva.
      Before it was announced they were split, he was seen walking with his arm around the French beauty, who is 22 years his junior, in Paris.
      In 2018, they welcomed a baby into their world, and David has played the role of doting dad, often seen carrying his daughter in his arms around London.
      Ginola also has two children from his previous marriage, son Andrea and daughter Carla, who is a model back in France.
      Although Maëva has concerns about his well-being, with a defibrillator on set should the worst happen, she is convinced Ginola will be fearless when it comes to the horrendous tasks that await.
      “There is almost nothing that scares David, not even death,” she told The Sun.
      Ginola has found love again with French model MaëvaCredit: Alamy
      Stunning Maëva is 22 years younger than Ginola
      When it comes to I’m A Celeb, Ginola will be fearlessCredit: Handout
      “He is a force of nature and will go outside bare-chested when it is snowing.
      “He doesn’t feel the cold and he loves the wind and rain. He is incredibly strong and says I make him feel young again.
      “We love playing backgammon, but David always wins. You can’t play a game with him because he has to win and he always wins. 

      “He is not afraid of insects or bugs. I scream if I see a spider and he will jokingly scream at me and ask, ‘Why are you screaming like that?’ The only thing he is afraid of is sharks but he wants to dive with them to conquer his fear.”
      With the show set in Wales, not Australia, David might not encounter any sharks.
      But you can bet he will make for an entertaining, sophisticated, and debonair I’m A Celeb contender.
      Even if that means taking an age in the shower looking after that barnet.
      I’m A Celebrity 2021 FULL line up confirmed as David Ginola, Emmerdale’s Danny Miller and Frankie Bridge sign up More

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      in Soccer

      Brit footballers who tried to crack Serie A include Beckham, Gascoigne, Souness, Smalling, Ramsey and now Abraham

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      TAMMY ABRAHAM is the latest British footballer to have a crack at Serie A.The forward completed a £34million switch to Roma from Chelsea in the summer, linking up with former Blues boss Jose Mourinho.
      Tammy Abraham has completed a £34m move to Roma from Chelsea
      The England international is believed to be on £80,000 a week for five years – the same as he was on at Chelsea.
      And it is understood Chelsea inserted a £68m buy-back clause into the deal – which can be triggered in two years’ time.
      Here SunSport examines the British players who have have walked the path before Abraham by trying to boss Serie A.
      FIKAYO TOMORI
      Tomori joined AC Milan on loan in January as he looked for more regular football having been frozen out by Chelsea.
      Milan made the deal permanent in June – paying the Blues £24m for the centre-back.
      The 23-year-old impressed in his first five months at the San Siro, where he made 22 appearances and even scored a goal.
      His early-season form in 2021-22 earned him a recall to the England senior squad, too.
      Fikayo Tomori has been with AC Milan since January and made the move permanent in June

      AARON RAMSEY
      Ramsey’s Italian job could be over.
      The former Arsenal midfielder, who joined Juventus in 2019, is being linked with a moved back to the Premier League – with the likes of  Newcastle, Wolves and Tottenham said to be in the hunt for the Wales star’s services.
      He hasn’t quite hit the heights in Serie A as he did with the Gunners on our shores, and he’s certainly not the first British footballer to try and crack Italian football.
      Aaron Ramsey has failed to light up Serie ACredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ASHLEY YOUNG
      In January 2020, Young left Manchester United for Inter Milan, in what seemed quite a strange move.
      In the twilight years of his career (he’s now 36) the winger turned full-back didn’t appear to have much left to offer.
      However, he enjoyed a renaissance in Milan under Antonio Conte – helping end the club’s long wait for the Serie A title.
      He moved back to Aston Villa in the summer of 2021.
      Ashley Young’s Inter Milan won the 20-21 Serie A titleCredit: Getty
      CHRIS SMALLING
      Smalling, 31, enjoyed a successful loan at Roma in the 2019-20 season, so the club decided they had to retain his services.
      They even paid Manchester United a whopping £14m to secure a deal for the centre-back.
      However, last season his fitness was called into question.
      He suffered with knee and thigh injuries and even had food poisoning, which saw him play just 21 games.
      And this season things are not much better, missing much of the season with a hamstring problem.
      Chris Smalling has had mixed fortunes at RomaCredit: EPA
      RAY WILKINS
      To consider Butch’s success, you need only look back to 2018.
      His premature death, at the age of 61, saw former clubs Chelsea and Man Utd go into mourning and pay tribute to their former midfielder – and AC Milan were no different.
      Team-mate Franco Baresi held up a Milan shirt with Wilkins’ name on the back and laid a wreath while the players wore black armbands at the San Siro.
      Wilkins spent three years in Milan and set a British record when he moved from Old Trafford in 1984 for £1.5m.
      Former Chelsea and Man United midfielder Ray Wilkins was a huge success at AC MilanCredit: Getty – Contributor
      “It was an immense time for me,” Wilkins recalled.
      “The game was played more like an international than a league game, like a game of chess where you had to pit your wits against the best.”
      Despite not winning a trophy in his three years at the club, Wilkins was one of the big success stories of British exports to Italy.
      Milan’s website remembers him as ‘a serious and meticulous professional’ known for his ‘exemplary correctness’ and ‘extraordinary tactical intelligence’.
      Franco Baresi paid tribute to Wilkins at the Milan derby after his death in AprilCredit: Getty – Contributor
      PAUL INCE
      The Guv’nor spent two years on the blue and black side of Milan.
      Like Wilkins, Ince is remembered as a success for his time at the San Siro after making a £7.5m move from United in 1995.
      But Ince’s start in Italy wasn’t quite so smooth as there were rumours of a return to the Premier League just five months after arriving.
      Ince, who lived by the picturesque Lake Como, later revealed that he may well have gone back to England had Roy Hodgson not taken charge.
      The England international brought energy to the Inter midfield alongside Nicola Berti as the two men dominated the centre of the park.
      Paul Ince had a difficult start at Inter but is still adored by fansCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Ince is remembered as a hero by the Inter fans, especially after helping the club reach the Uefa Cup final in 1996.
      Sadly for the England man, it ended with the all-too-familiar feeling of defeat in a penalty shoot-out.DAVID PLATT
      If it wasn’t for that stunning volley in extra time of England’s Italia 90 quarter-final, Platt may have never made the move.
      The following year he was signed by Bari from Aston Villa in a deal worth £5.5m and immediately immersed himself in the Italian culture.
      “I wanted to become an Italian, speak like an Italian, to live and eat like an Italian,” Platt once said.
      It took just a few months for him to be fluent in the language.
      Despite Bari being relegated, Platt was a success in the side and earned a move to Juventus.
      His stay in Turin wasn’t so fruitful and he ended up joining Sven Goran Eriksson at Sampdoria where he enjoyed his best period, with 17 goals in 55 appearances.
      Platt was so highly regarded, he ended up returning to be the club’s manager in 1998, but that didn’t work out quite so well.
      David Platt immersed himself in Italian culture after joining Bari in 1991Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Platt played for three Italian clubs and his biggest success came at SampdoriaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      PAUL GASCOIGNE
      Mainstream English interest in Serie A began with Gazza.
      His £5.5m move from Spurs to Lazio saw millions of English people follow the Italian game and led to coverage on Channel 4.
      Gazzetta Football Italia was born out of the England man’s move.
      Gascoigne is remembered fondly in Italy and his iconic celebration, with arms outstretched after scoring an 89th-minute equaliser against rivals Roma, will never be forgotten.
      But Gazza’s time in Serie A saw him struggle with injury problems.
      In three seasons at Lazio, he managed to play in only 47 games and score just six goals.
      Failing to learn the language saw Gazza struggle to settle and he ended up moving to Rangers in 1995.
      Recently, however, he kept a host of young Italian fans riveted by his antics in their version of I’m a Celebrity.
      Paul Gascoigne made Italian football popular among the English but his time in Serie A was plighted by injuriesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      DAVID BECKHAM
      Becks loved Milan so much he went there twice.
      Two years after leaving Real Madrid for LA Galaxy, the former England captain headed on loan to the San Siro and was a hit in the red and black of AC Milan.
      Beckham was back on the continent and competing at the top again but his sojourn was seen as a money-maker in Milan.
      Then vice-president Adriano Galliani said: “Football today is about full stadiums and sponsors, and superstars like Beckham fill them up. With him, Kaka and Ronaldinho, it will be a dream team.”
      It was a star-studded squad but they won nothing.
      Beckham scored twice in 18 appearances in his first season but played just 11 games the following campaign.
      David Beckham was on loan at AC Milan twiceCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ASHLEY COLE
      A contender for the Premier League’s greatest left-back, it didn’t quite work out for Cole in Rome.
      The former Arsenal and Chelsea man’s most memorable moment from two years at Roma was actually off the pitch.
      A team photo appeared to show Cole physically separate from his team-mates, with subsequent stories of how he was isolated.
      In an interview with Soccer AM, Cole explained the snap: “I’m on the end [of the line] and my friend next to me Urby Emanuelson was stood next to me – but he leaned forward.
      “I’m so hot and tired and stood there like this [Cole slumps]… I had friends there, I had great friends.”
      Cole’s contract at the Stadio Olimpico was terminated by mutual consent in 2016 after just 16 appearances for the club.
      Ashley Cole’s time at Roma is memorable for this incredible team photo
      Ashley Cole’s contract at Roma was terminated by mutual consent in 2016Credit: Reuters
      JOE HART
      It was meant to be his revival.
      After being dropped by new Man City boss Pep Guardiola, England’s former No1 headed to Torino on loan to revive his career.
      But the move didn’t go so well.
      In Hart’s first game he was blamed for Atalanta’s equaliser when his punch from a corner fell to an opponent who scored.
      And it all ended in acrimony when Torino’s president criticised the keeper for his performances and mentality.
      Urbano Cairo told Tuttosport: “There’s too much being said about Hart.
      “Since this has been happening, his performance levels have dropped. This is already the third time we concede a goal this way and that’s a bit too much.”
      Joe Hart tried to revive his career with a loan move to TorinoCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      GRAEME SOUNESS
      Rewind three decades and Graeme Souness’ move to Sampdoria saw the club rise to a greater status in Italy.
      The Scot marshalled the midfield and dominated each game in his two years at Samp in the mid-80s.
      Unlike many of the Brits abroad, Souness lifted the Coppa Italia in his first season at the club with a win over AC Milan after he’d scored in the first leg.
      Souness remembered Samp as a welcoming club.
      He told Football Italia: “We had a great President in Paolo Mantovani and he treated everyone like his own son. It’s a lovely club in beautiful city.
      “I was lucky enough to be there and I can honestly say it was one of the best times in my career.”
      Graeme Souness thrived in Italy and won the Coppa Italia in his first year at SampdoriaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      LEE SHARPE
      After struggling with injuries, Leeds boss David O’Leary loaned Sharpe out to Sampdoria.
      The former Man Utd midfielder was joining David Platt – the club’s boss – and looking to revive his career.
      But an issue with Platt’s coaching badges meant he was replaced by Luciano Spalletti, and Sharpe’s opportunities nose-dived.
      “I’d had a while out with a cruciate knee injury,” Sharpe said.
      “I wasn’t properly match-fit. So they put me on a training programme and in matches I was getting half an hour here and an hour there.
      “But after four or five weeks Platty ran into difficulty because he didn’t have his coaching badges and it all fell away really.”
      Lee Sharpe’s loan move from Leeds didn’t work out after a change of managementCredit: Reuters
      IAN RUSH
      Did he say it or didn’t he?
      The prolific Welsh striker’s two years at Juventus are remembered for a controversial quote that Rush denies ever saying.
      “I couldn’t settle in Italy, it was like living in a foreign country,” he was claimed to have said.
      Speaking to FourFourTwo in 2016, Rush said: “I didn’t actually say Italy was ‘like living in a foreign country’.
      Ian Rush’s time in Italy is remembered for a controversial quote he claims he never saidCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      “No one has ever seen a direct quote from me saying that. I’m blaming Kenny Dalglish.
      “When he re-signed me, a reporter asked me, ‘Why have you come back?’ Kenny quipped: ‘He said it was like playing in a foreign country.’ He’s got a lot to answer for!”
      Rush was welcomed to Turin by 5,000 adoring fans but went on to score just seven goals in 29 appearances.
      He remembered the Old Lady as ‘the right club at the wrong time’.
      Tammy Abraham talks about joining new club Roma in £34m transfer from Chelsea More

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      in Soccer

      Weirdest football transfers from Carroll’s two-month Reading deal and Alves’ €1 salary… to Bendtner joining Juventus

      by

      NEVER underestimate the power football has to surprise.Over the years, SunSport has seen it’s fair share of weird transfers. Players swapping their glamour days for a runout at Barnet, for example, which you’ll see as you read on.
      Andy Carroll has signed for Reading in a surprising moveCredit: JASONPIX
      Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano shocked the world when they signed for West Ham in 2006Credit: PA:Press Association
      And then there are some who the so-called big clubs take a punt on – swooping on an unsuspecting ‘smaller club’ to make an odd signing.
      This week, Dani Alves has returned to Barcelona, at the age of 38, and will reportedly be paid just ONE EURO a month.
      While Andy Carroll has come out of the wilderness to sign for Reading on a two-month contract.
      Here are some of the weirdest transfers we’ve ever come across:
      NICKLAS BENDTNER
      On the final day of the transfer window in August 2012, Juventus were short of a centre forward.
      But even Arsenal fans, who had grown tired of Nicklas Bendtner’s off-the-field antics, were shocked the Italian giants went for their Danish striker.
      Especially since the previous season he had failed to pull up any trees at Sunderland.
      That didn’t deter Juve gambling on the forward, but injury problems restricted him to just 11 appearances – and he failed to score.
      Unsurprisingly, the Serie A side didn’t take up an option of buying him permanently.
      Arsenal fans were left stunned when Serie A giants Juventus took troubled striker Nicklas Bendtner off their handsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Bendtner failed to score in 11 games for the club and a permanent move was quashedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      BOJAN KRKIC
      The former Barcelona man was the epitome of the question; can he do it on a rainy Tuesday night at Stoke?
      The simple answer was no, despite Bojan having the benefit of playing for the home side too.
      Mark Hughes concluded the surprise deal for the man labelled the next Messi in 2014 for just £1.8million.
      “Anyone who knows European football will be aware of him as a player and the fact that he sees his future at Stoke City is really exciting,” Hughes beamed at the time.
      16 goals in 85 games later he was flogged to MLS side Montreal Impact in 2019.
      Bojan Krcic swapped Barcelona for StokeCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      STEVEN CAULKER
      Although it was only a loan move, Jurgen Klopp bringing in Caulker from QPR in a January transfer window in 2016 was one no one saw coming.
      A centre back who came through the ranks at Tottenham, the one-time England cap managed to play four games for the reds.
      What was even more unbelievable was he was asked to play upfront.
      Sadly, his Liverpool was cut short before a deal could be thrashed out, when Caulker was admitted into rehab with addictions to alcohol and gambling threatening his career.
      Steven Caulker was asked to play upfront for LiverpoolCredit: Reuters
      TEVEZ AND MASCHERANO
      Probably one of the most audacious double-signings in Premier League history.
      No wonder then West Ham boss Alan Pardew had a smile like a Cheshire cat at their unveiling back in 2006.
      The Argentinian duo were plucked from Corinthians, and only stayed with the Hammers for a season with Tevez joining Manchester United and Mascherano signing for Liverpool.
      Tevez would write his name in the history books by scoring a goal that secured the club’s Premier League safety.
      Later, Pardew revealed he had only asked his chief executive to buy James Milner and then his Christmas came early.
      Carlos Tevez helped save West Ham from relegationCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      LUTHER BLISSETT
      Cruelly called Luther ‘Miss it’ by away fans, Blissett is a Watford legend and their all-time top goalscorer.
      After winning the First Division Golden Boot in 1983, AC Milan paid £1million to bring him to Italy.
      But Blissett struggled to settle in Italy, scoring just five times in 30 appearances in the club.
      His dietary requirements were also unfulfilled.
      “No matter how much money you have here, you can’t seem to get Rice Krispies,” he said.
      AC Milan gambled on Watford legend Luther Blissett, who failed to settle in ItalyCredit: AP:Associated Press
      EDGAR DAVIDS
      One of the finest midfielders of his generation, it was a shock to see Edgar Davids end up at Barnet.
      After all, this was a former Dutch international who had won the Champions League with Ajax, and played for AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Barcelona in a star-studded career.
      Still, in 2012 – still living in North London after a spell at Spurs and then Crystal Palace – he became player manager of League Two Barnet.
      However, he struggled to keep his discipline on the pitch – getting sent off three times in his first eight games of the 2013-14 season and picking up a booking in every one of those matches.
      His bizarre managerial career took a new turn when he decided to wear the No1 jersey normally worn by goalkeepers, insisting he was setting a trend for midfielders to don that number. He resigned in 2014.
      After starring at Ajax, Juventus, AC Milan and Tottenham, Edgar Davids opted to end his career at League Two BarnetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FERNANDO HIERRO, YOURI DJORKAEFF AND JAY JAY OKOCHA
      There was no doubt Sam Allardyce had big plans for Bolton Wanderers.
      Although they were in their twilight years, between 2002-2004 Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro, France World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff and the remarkably gifted Jay-Jay Okocha all played for the club at the same time.
      Okocha joined from PSG on a free transfer, and soon became a fans’ favourite.
      Djorkaeff scored an impressive 21 goals from 87 games from midfield, initially snubbing interest from Manchester United and Liverpool for three years with the Trotters.
      While Hierro finished his career playing for Wanderers aged 37.
      Youri Djorkaeff and Jay-Jay Okocha were part of a dream team of foreign signings at BoltonCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid legend Fernardo Hierro enjoyed his final year as a pro with the TrottersCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ROBERTO MANCINI
      Mancini enjoyed a stellar career at Sampdoria, where he helped the club win Serie A, four Coppa Italia titles, as well the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
      Three years followed at Lazio, but no one could’ve envisaged what was going to happen next.
      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE
      There are some quality players up for grabs for nothing

      Mancini joined Peter Taylor’s Leicester City on loan – making his debut against Arsenal in 2001 at the grand old age of 36.
      However, he failed to complete 90 minutes in his five games for the club.
      His contract was torn up in February, when Mancini decided he wanted to manage Fiorentina.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Roberto Mancini joined Leicester City at 36 from Lazio, but failed to reach previous heightsCredit: PA:Press Association

      Top clubs could be BANNED from foreign transfers due to ESL with visas stopped More

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      in Motorsport

      MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi retires to glam lifestyle with former grid-girl Wag, 14-years his junior, and a £4m yacht

      by

      VALENTINO ROSSI has hung up his helmet on an illustrious 25-year MotoGP career.The Italian motorcycle rider, 42, said goodbye in an emotional farewell at Sunday’s Valencia Grand Prix.
      Valentino Rossi said goodbye to MotoGP in an emotional farewell at the Valencia Grand PrixCredit: Getty
      In an illustrious 25-year MotoGP career Rossi won nine world championshipsCredit: Rex
      His retirement drew well wishes from tennis legend Roger Federer, Hollywood movie star Tom Cruise, as well as F1 heroes Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
      Rossi won nine world championships in the motorsport, amassing a wealth of around £150million.
      Now, he can enjoy a well-earned rest with Wag Francesca Sofia Novello, 14-years his junior.
      The Doctor can also take his luxury yacht, worth £4million, out for a spin whenever he likes.
      GLAM WAG
      Valentino met glam partner Francesca in 2018.
      She is a former lingerie model, who was the face of various fashion campaigns in Milan.
      But, the pair prefer to keep their romance private and rarely share anything about the relationship.
      Even on Francesca’s Instagram, which has almost half a million followers, there’s very few glimpses into their lifestyle.
      However, she was a regular in the paddock – playing the role of supportive Wag during the racing legend’s final seasons on the circuit.
      Gorgeous Italian model Francesca Sofia Novello is Rossi’s girlfriend
      Francesca is 14-years Rossi’s junior
      Francesca shows off her curves in lingerie
      A former MotoGP grid girl, Francesca has half a million followers on Instagram
      The gorgeous brunette once worked as a MotoGP grid girl, but revealed a horror ordeal when she was groped.
      Sofia told Vanity Fair: “In reality it is a job like many others, a stage in my career of which I am proud.
      “At 19 it’s not easy to work with people who look at your butt when you pass by, and touch your butt when you take a picture.
      “Motorsport is a male environment. You have to wake up, you can’t be a smiling goose.
      “I’m for girl power. But it’s part of the game, it does happen.
      “You have to learn to be respected. If you let it go and show yourself to be ‘beautiful and stupid’, you’re done.”
      YACHT
      Rossi is believed to have property in London, Ibiza and his home town of Tavullia.
      But it’s his most recent purchase that is his most impressive.
      He has always been a connoisseur when it comes to yachts, so at the turn of the year it was no surprise to see him splash £4million on a brand new toy.
      The 89-foot long vessel is a Sanlorenzo X88 has a maximum speed of 23 knots and can make long journey thanks to a 9,300-litre fuel tank.
      Better still, it’s big enough to sleep up to eight people.
      Previously, Rossi has owned a Mochi Craft, which he sold after 15 years.
      He also once bought a Pershing 56 luxury yacht for £1.4million called Titilla.
      Loving a sequel, his latest purchase has been labelled Titilla II.
      Rossi splashed £4million on a yacht earlier this year
      The 89-foot long vessel is a Sanlorenzo X88 and has a maximum speed of 23 knots
      EXPECTANT FATHER
      Over the years, Rossi has dated a string of beautiful women, including former beauty pageant winner Linda Morselli for nine years.
      But fatherhood seemed far away for the eternal bachelor, who didn’t appear to want any offspring of his own.
      That is until most recently, when he revealed he was about to become a dad for the first time.
      In a hilarious social media post back in August, Rossi dressed up as a doctor while holding a stethoscope pressed up against the stomach of girlfriend Francesca.
      He captioned the snap: “After a careful visit we can tell you that Franci is pregnant! We are expecting for a girl.”
      However, don’t expect wedding bells to ring any time soon.
      Francesca told GPOne.com back in February: “For me it is not essential.
      “If it happens, all well and good, but we love each other all the same.
      “I always say that you don’t need to have a ring on your finger to have faith in your heart.”
      Back in August, Rossi – nicknamed The Doctor – revealed Francesca was expecting his baby
      Francesca and Rossi are expecting a baby girl
      FAMILY AFFAIR
      While Rossi may have retired from motorsport, there’s a family member following in his footsteps.
      Maternal half-brother Luca Marini, 24, was the runner-up in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship.
      This year, he joined the MotoGP class with the Esponsorama Avintia and raced alongside Rossi.
      And in October, he secured his first-ever MotoGP front row in qualifying for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

      At the time, Valentino revealed: “This is very important for him, for his future, for his career because next year we will do the team together and I think he will have a good bike and a good team behind him.
      “So, the second year he needs all the support to try to arrive at the good results. I think that he has the speed, he has the talent, he can do some good things.”
      However, he will have some way to go to escape the shadow of MotoGP’s greatest.
      Luca Marini is following in the footsteps of his half-brother Valentino Rossi
      MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi will retire at end of the season More

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      in Boxing

      My mate Tyson Fury is a real champ for taking up mental health fight, says Frank Bruno

      by

      FRANK Bruno today crowns Tyson Fury as the most inspirational sports star on the planet.He tells how the Gypsy King is now following in his own legendary footsteps — both in and out of the ring.
      My mate Tyson Fury is a real champ for taking up mental health fight, says Frank BrunoCredit: Richard Pelham – The Sun
      In an exclusive interview to mark turning 60, Frank says Tyson has taken on the mantle of being Britain’s best heavyweight boxer, but deserves even more credit for his work championing mental health awareness in troubled youngsters.
      And Frank says his friendship with Tyson is even helping him to win his own battle with mental health problems after years of trying to overcome his demons.
      Frank — who celebrates his landmark birthday today — told The Sun: “I’ve seen a lot over my 60 years but witnessing the way Tyson has turned his life around may well top the lot.
      “Nobody has done more in the past few years to raise awareness of mental health problems than Tyson. He’s the most inspirational sports star on the planet in my book.
      “We’ve both had difficult days but it has made us great friends and I am now seeing first-hand how Tyson is truly on a mission, inside and outside of the ring, to help others.
      “Tyson has told me he even wants to try and find a cure for mental health problems one day so others don’t go through what we have. And I’d back him to do it. I’d trust Tyson more than most of the politicians around these days.”

      With a steely look, Frank added: “I am determined to carry on fighting to smash down stigma until the day I die. But it’s reassuring to know Tyson will be there carrying the baton for many years after that.”
      It is typical heart-on-his-sleeve, no-nonsense stuff from Frank, who is still adored by the nation, 25 years after he retired from boxing.
      In 1995, the year before he quit the ring, he defeated Oliver McCall at Wembley to win the WBC Heavyweight Championship, which is still ranked among British sport’s greatest moments.
      As well as a glittering career which saw him win 40 out of 45 fights, he has also become a national treasure for his career on stage and screen.
      A poll in 1996, the year he retired, ranked him the second most popular Briton, behind Princess Diana. But five years after retiring, Frank was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and his life unravelled.
      The illness has since seen him sectioned — detained as a psychiatric hospital inpatient — four times, most recently last summer.
      LIFE UNRAVELLED
      Now he is planning to open a string of mental health centres to help those who have gone through similar struggles.
      Frank says: “The last 12 months have been probably the hardest in my life. Last summer I couldn’t have put my hand on my heart and said I’d have been out of hospital to celebrate my birthday.
      “I thought I had things under control but Covid and lockdown just pulled the rug from under my feet. I struggled to cope with being locked down and losing friends from Covid.
      “I had to reset and get better. And I did. But if getting my freedom back and turning 60 has shown me anything it is that there is still so much to be fighting for.
      “I’ve got a lot I still want to do. But it is not about belts or titles now. It is about supporting others.”
      It is that determination which has led Tyson, who also suffers from bipolar, to bond with Frank in a unique way. The pair regularly talk privately about their illness and discuss coping strategies.
      Nobody has done more in the past few years to raise awareness of mental health problems than TysonFrank Bruno
      They also both run their own charity foundations. Before Tyson flew out to face Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas last month, Frank spent a day with the 33-year-old at a new centre that Tyson is opening in Morecambe, Lancs.
      And when he got back, Tyson was one of the first people on the phone to wish his buddy well at turning 60. Frank said: “I got a video message from him.
      “I think Tyson’s been relaxing and enjoying himself since he got back from the Wilder fight. But good luck to him, he deserves a break. But Tyson won’t be sitting still for long. He’s not cut that way.”
      Frank feels the same about Britain’s former Olympic and world champ Anthony Joshua, who has barely been seen since his brutal defeat by Ukrainian powerhouse Oleksandr Usyk in September.
      AJ’s defeat means the planned superfight with Tyson that fans were looking forward to now hangs in the balance.
      But Frank, who won his own world title at the fourth attempt, is backing 32-year-old AJ to recover and thinks he will eventually fight pal Tyson.
      KANGAROO BALLS
      He said: “This isn’t the end of the AJ story. Sometimes in life you have to lose to win. I know that better than most.
      “Anthony now needs to keep a level head, work hard and come back. I think he’s still got the fire in his belly and he’ll want to prove a few people wrong by coming back stronger. If I can help in any way I’d love to. He just needs to call me.
      “AJ will also want to fight Tyson and prove he’s the best fighter in the world — but that part won’t be easy!” Despite his age, Frank, who still trains daily, is regularly offered the chance to return to the ring. 
      In the past year alone, he has been offered potentially lucrative deals to take part in exhibition bouts against Evander Holyfield and Riddick Bowe.
      But Frank, who suffered an eye injury in his final fight against Mike Tyson in 1996, is not tempted.
      He said: “One more punch to the eye could blind me, so I won’t be going there. I want to see my grandchildren grow up. I’m still fit and I will always miss the buzz of boxing, but I’ve had my time.”
      I wouldn’t change a single day of the last 60 years. Even the difficult ones happened for a reason.Frank Bruno
      However, the prospect of doing battle on the dance floor is a different matter. Frank said: “I think I’d be OK on Strictly. I’ve loved music from the day I was born and when I’m not in the gym I’ll be on the decks and love a bit of DJing.
      “Apparently I’m not a bad mover so I think I’d enjoy the show — plus, they wouldn’t have to spend much on a spray tan.”
      He added: “I’d opt for that over I’m A Celeb. I hate snakes and don’t fancy eating kangaroo balls. I’d rather have a nice steak and some garlic.”
      Frank’s friendship with legendary boxing commentator Harry Carpenter remains one of the joys of his life. It led to his infamous “Know what I mean, ’Arry?” catchphrase, which people still shout at him every day, Frank says.
      It is 11 years since Harry died, but earlier this year Frank was moved close to tears when he discovered a previously unseen interview that he had given to the BBC icon.
      It forms part of Frank’s new life story, 60 Years A Fighter. He says: “I still think about Harry a lot. He was a gentleman, a diamond who helped me inside and outside the ring more than he could ever know. He played a massive part in my life.”
      Last Friday Frank marked his milestone birthday with a celebratory ball, raising money for his charity, The Frank Bruno Foundation.
      ‘DUST YOURSELF DOWN AND GO AGAIN’
      Among those to send tributes were Piers Morgan, Wayne Rooney and Stephen Fry. And his old fighting foe Mike Tyson even sent a happy birthday message via video.
      Despite being rivals in the ring, Frank says the pair are now more like brothers. He added: “Mike’s misunderstood. We met up last year and it was great to just talk about old times.
      “He’s mellowed a hell of a lot — that might be because he runs a cannabis farm in America! He may have been the baddest man on the planet for a long time but he’s just a grandad like me now.”
      And for Frank, who is reportedly dating Scottish hairdresser Nina Coletta, mental health campaigning, family and staying fit and healthy are the priorities now.
      He said: “I wouldn’t change a single day of the last 60 years. Even the difficult ones happened for a reason. They make you stronger. You have to dust yourself down and go again.
      “I’ve been very lucky. I’ve met kings and queens but I’m just a normal geezer and no better than anyone else — know what I mean?”

      SMASHING STIGMA AROUND MENTAL HEALTH
      AFTER a glittering ring career Frank is now focused on a new fight — smashing the stigma around mental health.
      His charity The Frank Bruno Foundation has just opened its first centre in Northampton which has already helped more than 1,000 people.
      Pal Tyson Fury has agreed to be an ambassador for the charity and Frank, who wants to open several more centres next year, is even eyeing a meeting at No10.
      He says: “I’d love to sit down with Boris Johnson and tell him where we need to improve things.
      “Lockdown has created a new crisis in mental health and the help isn’t there for many who need it. I want to change all that — and so does Tyson.”

      Frank Bruno has crowned Tyson Fury as the most inspirational sports star on the planetCredit: Rex
      Frank as the WBC champion pictured in 1995Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Frank meets boxing great Muhammed Ali in 1984Credit: (c) 1984 Rex Features. No use without permission.
      Tyson Fury pictured in his third bout with Deontay WilderCredit: AP
      Bruno cuts a special Frank Bruno Foundation cake to celebrate his 60th birthdayCredit: Andrew Styczynski
      Tyson Fury jogs along drizzly Morecambe beach with Joseph Parker, dad John and bro Tommy ahead of his Jake Paul showdown
      We pay for your stories!Do you have a story for The Sun news desk? More

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      in Motorsport

      MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi retires to glam lifestyle with former grid-girl Wag, 14-years his junior, and £4m yacht

      by

      VALENTINO ROSSI has hung up his helmet on an illustrious 25-year MotoGP career.The Italian motorcycle rider, 42, said goodbye in an emotional farewell at Sunday’s Valencia Grand Prix.
      Valentino Rossi said goodbye to MotoGP in an emotional farewell at the Valencia Grand PrixCredit: Getty
      In an illustrious 25-year MotoGP career Rossi won nine world championshipsCredit: Rex
      His retirement drew well wishes from tennis legend Roger Federer, Hollywood movie star Tom Cruise, as well as F1 heroes Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
      Rossi won nine world championships in the motorsport, amassing a wealth of around £150million.
      Now, he can enjoy a well-earned rest with Wag Francesca Sofia Novello, 14-years his junior.
      The Doctor can also take his luxury yacht, worth £4million, out for a spin whenever he likes.
      GLAM WAG
      Valentino met glam partner Francesca in 2018.
      She is a former lingerie model, who was the face of various fashion campaigns in Milan.
      But, the pair prefer to keep their romance private and rarely share anything about the relationship.
      Even on Francesca’s Instagram, which has almost half a million followers, there’s very few glimpses into their lifestyle.
      However, she was a regular in the paddock – playing the role of supportive Wag during the racing legend’s final seasons on the circuit.
      Gorgeous Italian model Francesca Sofia Novello is Rossi’s girlfriend
      Francesca is 14-years Rossi’s junior
      Francesca shows off her curves in lingerie
      A former MotoGP grid girl, Francesca has half a million followers on Instagram
      The gorgeous brunette once worked as a MotoGP grid girl, but revealed a horror ordeal when she was groped.
      Sofia told Vanity Fair: “In reality it is a job like many others, a stage in my career of which I am proud.
      “At 19 it’s not easy to work with people who look at your butt when you pass by, and touch your butt when you take a picture.
      “Motorsport is a male environment. You have to wake up, you can’t be a smiling goose.
      “I’m for girl power. But it’s part of the game, it does happen.
      “You have to learn to be respected. If you let it go and show yourself to be ‘beautiful and stupid’, you’re done.”
      YACHT
      Rossi is believed to have property in London, Ibiza and his home town of Tavullia.
      But it’s his most recent purchase that is his most impressive.
      He has always been a connoisseur when it comes to yachts, so at the turn of the year it was no surprise to see him splash £4million on a brand new toy.
      The 89-foot long vessel is a Sanlorenzo X88 has a maximum speed of 23 knots and can make long journey thanks to a 9,300-litre fuel tank.
      Better still, it’s big enough to sleep up to eight people.
      Previously, Rossi has owned a Mochi Craft, which he sold after 15 years.
      He also once bought a Pershing 56 luxury yacht for £1.4million called Titilla.
      Loving a sequel, his latest purchase has been labelled Titilla II.
      Rossi splashed £4million on a yacht earlier this year
      The 89-foot long vessel is a Sanlorenzo X88 and has a maximum speed of 23 knots
      EXPECTANT FATHER
      Over the years, Rossi has dated a string of beautiful women, including former beauty pageant winner Linda Morselli for nine years.
      But fatherhood seemed far away for the eternal bachelor, who didn’t appear to want any offspring of his own.
      That is until most recently, when he revealed he was about to become a dad for the first time.
      In a hilarious social media post back in August, Rossi dressed up as a doctor while holding a stethoscope pressed up against the stomach of girlfriend Francesca.
      He captioned the snap: “After a careful visit we can tell you that Franci is pregnant! We are expecting for a girl.”
      However, don’t expect wedding bells to ring any time soon.
      Francesca told GPOne.com back in February: “For me it is not essential.
      “If it happens, all well and good, but we love each other all the same.
      “I always say that you don’t need to have a ring on your finger to have faith in your heart.”
      Back in August, Rossi – nicknamed The Doctor – revealed Francesca was expecting his baby
      Francesca and Rossi are expecting a baby girl
      FAMILY AFFAIR
      While Rossi may have retired from motorsport, there’s a family member following in his footsteps.
      Maternal half-brother Luca Marini, 24, was the runner-up in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship.
      This year, he joined the MotoGP class with the Esponsorama Avintia and raced alongside Rossi.
      And in October, he secured his first-ever MotoGP front row in qualifying for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

      At the time, Valentino revealed: “This is very important for him, for his future, for his career because next year we will do the team together and I think he will have a good bike and a good team behind him.
      “So, the second year he needs all the support to try to arrive at the good results. I think that he has the speed, he has the talent, he can do some good things.”
      However, he will have some way to go to escape the shadow of MotoGP’s greatest.
      Luca Marini is following in the footsteps of his half-brother Valentino Rossi
      MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi will retire at end of the season More