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      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton hailed for ‘masterclass’ Sprint victory before Ferrari star immediately takes aim at ‘yapping’ critics

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      LEWIS HAMILTON fired back at “yapping” critics after sealing his first Ferrari win on just the second race weekend.The 40-year-old British driver has entered a new era as he bagged his first-ever Sprint win since the new format began in 2021.Lewis Hamilton won his first race for Ferrari at the Chinese Grand Prix SprintCredit: RexHamilton battled Max Verstappen off the line but was quicker than his old rivalCredit: GettyHe was praised by his engineer for a ‘masterclass in tyre management’Credit: RexHe then hit back at his ‘yapping’ criticsCredit: ReutersMcLaren’s Oscar Piastri took pole for the feature race ahead of Mercedes’ George RussellCredit: AFPTo make victory even sweeter, Hamilton held off his old foe Max Verstappen who finished third but started in P2, while Oscar Piastri finished second.Hamilton’s win was a huge statement as he finished the 19-lap sprint a whopping 6.8 seconds ahead of the Aussie McLaren driver.After crossing the line he was praised by engineer Riccardo Adami for a “masterclass in tyre management”.Piastri hit back in qualifying as he took pole position for Sunday’s race while George Russell’s Mercedes nipped between him and his McLaren team-mate Lando Norris, while Verstappen finished in fourth and Hamilton fifth.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAfter the Sprint win, Hamilton took another dig at his critics following his disappointing season opener in Melbourne last weekend.He said: “The first race was difficult and obviously, I think I really do feel a lot of people underestimated the steep climb it is to get into a new team,“To become acclimatized within the team and understanding communication and all sorts of things.”The amount of critics and people I’ve heard yapping along the way just clearly not understanding.Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“Maybe they’ve never had the experience or just unaware, so it’s felt great to come here and feel comfortable in the car, because in Melbourne I didn’t feel comfortable in the car.”The Ferrari driver had started on pole – the first Brit to achieve the feat for the team since Nigel Mansell in 1990 – after setting a new track record for the Shanghai International Circuit on Friday.Lewis Hamilton has perfect response to dismal Ferrari debut as he achieves feat not seen for 35 years Hamilton batted away Verstappen going into Turn 1 and then for the first 10 laps of the sprint.He had then built enough of a gap to storm over the line after Piastri had passed the Dutchman with four laps to go.Hamilton finished a disappointing tenth in Melbourne last weekend after qualifying in P8.He bagged a cushty eight points for winning the Sprint in China, which has propelled him up the standings.But Hamilton has urged Ferrari’s boisterous Tifosi fanbase to remain calm.He added: “I know the Tifosi, the fans, the team want to win, and it means everything to them,”But I said the other day, Rome wasn’t built in one day, one step at a time and we’re not going to get ahead of ourselves.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We’re going to continue to push, be diligent, remain focused, stay calm – most importantly stay calm – because these moments get everyone excited.”But we’ll be back at our desks after this, focused on qualifying. It’s a long, long way. It’s a marathon, not a sprint so we’ve just got to take our time.”Chinese Grand Prix qualifying grid positions1. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 1:30.6412. George Russell (Mercedes)3. Lando Norris (McLaren)4. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)5. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)6. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)7. Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls)8. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)9. Yuki Tsunoda (Racing Bulls)10. Alex Albon (Williams)11. Esteban Ocon (Haas)12. Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber)13. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)14. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)15. Carlos Sainz (Williams)16. Pierre Gasly (Alpine)17. Oliver Bearman (Haas)18. Jack Doohan (Alpine)19. Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber)20. Liam Lawson (Red Bull) More

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      in Soccer

      Jadon Sancho has matured at Chelsea but shock return to Man Utd and new role under Ruben Amorim could save his career

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      JADON SANCHO’s former coach believes the struggling winger could still be a success at Old Trafford.The 24-year-old wide man, who is currently on loan at Chelsea from Manchester United, was hauled off against Arsenal after an indifferent display.Jadon Sancho’s struggles continued the Emirates against ArsenalCredit: GettySancho was replaced in the 76th minute against the Gunners following an ineffectual performanceCredit: ReutersNow, Sancho is at a career crossroad with his future up in the airCredit: GettySancho’s form at Chelsea has tailed off this seasonThe Blues have an obligation to buy Sancho for around £25million, should they finish above 15th in the Premier League.However, recent reports suggest Sancho could find himself back at Old Trafford, if Chelsea pay a ‘penalty fee’ to back out of the deal.This season, after starting the campaign off well, he has managed just two goals in 28 games.Premier League player development lead coach Dan Micciche worked with Sancho at U15 and U16 level for England.He believes a return to Man Utd, who paid Borussia Dortmund £73million for his services in 2021, could benefit Sancho and get him out of his recent slump.Coach Ruben Amorim is desperate to find an option to play as a left-sided No10 in his preferred 3-4-3 formation, with Alejandro Garnacho struggling to get to grips with the position.But, in Sancho, the Portuguese boss could have someone suited to play the role.Micciche told SunSport: “Jadon would have to play as a left-sided No10, I couldn’t see him play as a wing-back.”Can he play there? Yeah, absolutely. I think he could play for Ruben Amorim in his system.”It might actually suit him more – in terms of freeing him up. “He wouldn’t be hugging the touchline as much, he would in middle of the pitch more and would have more options when he gets the ball.”Jadon Sancho throws corner flag during Chelsea’s celebration at Tottenham Sancho is at a career crossroads. After showing some early promise at Stamford Bridge, his Chelsea loan has since turned sour.The latest example of stalling came in his performance against Arsenal on Sunday, where he was hauled off after 76 minutes following an ineffectual performance.Should he sign for Chelsea in the summer, his game time could be further limited under boss Enzo Maresca as competition for places will be even more intense.Chelsea will welcome Brazil star Willian Estevao to Stamford Bridge in the summer, having signed him a year ago for £45m from Palmeiras.However, Micciche believes Sancho’s matured under the Italian manager.He said: “I’ve been to a few Chelsea games this season and Jadon has done some wonderful things in those games.”The way they play, he’s often left in one on one situations. “The way the game is going now, it can be hard for those types of players because they get doubled up on a lot.”The expectation on him is so high. When he gets the ball, we’re expecting a bit of magic.”I actually think he’s matured. When he was younger, he would be trying to beat the full-back and dribble his way through situation whenever he got the ball.”In Maresca’s system he plays with his teammates a lot more. I think what makes wingers more effective is the runs ahead of him because that unbalances the full-back.Sancho was ineffectual against ArsenalMan Utd paid £73m to sign Sancho in 2021 from Borussia DortmundCredit: AlamyChelsea have an obligation to buy Sancho for around £25m in the summerCredit: RexHowever, recent reports suggest Chelsea could pay a penalty clause and send him back to Old TraffordCredit: Rex”Whereas when you get the ball and those forward runs aren’t made, and you are left one against one, opposition will double up.”Then, you’ve got two choices – try to beat two players or pass the ball.”I think Sancho might have had less ‘wow’ moments, but he’s played for the team a lot and showed maturity.”During his time at club level, Sancho’s professionalism has sometimes been questioned.At Borussia Dortmund, he was dropped for an important Champions League match against Barcelona after skipping a team meeting in the build-up.While at Manchester United, Sancho was banished to the reserves by former manager Erik ten Hag for claiming the manager lied about his exclusion from the squad in a match against Arsenal.Micciche believes Sancho is misunderstood and is a good person, at heart.He said: “What we’re talking about is different personalities.”There’s one thing about having a different type of personality, then there’s another thing of not being a very nice person.”Jadon is a good person. What we have to remember is players are all very different.Sancho earned a reputation as one of football’s most talented youngsters at Borussia DortmundCredit: AP:Associated PressDan Micciche believes Sancho is misunderstoodCredit: Getty Images – Getty”I always think the hardest players to coach are wingers. It’s very easy to point the finger at them and how they don’t track back.”But, if you look at the players the current generation looked up to – it’s the likes of Ronaldinho and Neymar, flamboyant players and personalities.”I think there’s a generalisation that players who have lots of flair are bad characters. It’s just their personality. They don’t do it deliberately. “They are a bit different, to even how they dress, or sticking to rules, but as long as it doesn’t get out of control you have to accept they’re a bit different.”They’re just creative individuals and think and act a bit differently, but that’s what makes them special. If you take out their individuality, then the game becomes very boring.”Micciche believes Sancho needs to add another string to his bow and continue his development.He divulged: “He’ll be judged on his goals and assists, so he’ll need to improve on those.”He also needs to develop his game and find different ways to be effective on the pitch.”That could be becoming a free-kick specialist. If he wanted to copy his idol, Ronaldinho who could score from set-pieces, then that would add another string to his bow.”Say a free-kick does come off during a game, then that would also give him the confidence to try something different during a match that he might not have tried if he hadn’t scored that free-kick.”There’s always things players can do to add to their game to solve different problems.”We know Jadon’s a good player, otherwise teams wouldn’t double up on him. Now, he has to overcome that.”Sancho needs to overcome his hurdles by working hard in trainingCredit: RexMicciche believes Sancho can get a smile back into his game if he adds a new skill to his gameCredit: AFPMicciche suggested Sancho became a free-kick specialistCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      ‘They should talk to Luke Littler’ – Man Utd legend says squad should turn to darts teenager for advice

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      MANCHESTER UNITED hero Jaap Stam believes that the Red Devils’ current crop should talk to Luke Littler about handling pressure.Ruben Amorim’s side have endured an awful season and sit 13th in the Premier League.Luke Littler continues to go from strength to strengthCredit: RexMan Utd have endured a difficult seasonCredit: RexLittler, meanwhile, has continued to thrive since bursting onto the scene as a 16-year-old at the World Darts Championship in December 2023.After being beaten in the Ally Pally final on that occasion, the darts wonderkid went one better to become world champion earlier this year.Stam, who hails from a proud darts nation in the Netherlands, believes that United’s new young core could do with taking a leaf from Littler’s book.Chatting to Makthavare, the former centre-back, 52, said: “I’ve been so impressed with how Luke Littler has been performing, he is doing such an amazing job at a young age and I spoke to him at Old Trafford last season.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”I told him how impressive it was that he can still perform with all the noise and the shouting behind him at tournaments, it’s so hard to have that concentration and that focus.”I think it’s different for certain personalities in how you approach certain situations and how you deal with that, Luke’s been doing a great job at that.”For young footballers who are going from the academy to the first team at a big club it can be very difficult, you have to think about all the social media attention and pressure put on these players.”I think it would be good for these young players to talk to Luke about his experience and how he handles high pressure situations.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordJaap Stam played for Man Utd between 1998 and 2001Credit: AFP”I have seen players in the past who go from the academy to the first team and then they seem to struggle.”It’s so important to have people within the club who can help that transition and make it easier for those young people to handle it and reach their potential.”Luke Littler celebrates win after his victory at Premier League night seven in Cardiff Man Utd have not lost a match in 90 minutes since their 1-0 defeat at Tottenham on February 16, although they did exit the FA Cup to Fulham on penalties during the subsequent seven-match stretch.Littler, meanwhile, has continued to thrive.On Thursday the 18-year-old claimed victory on Night Seven of the 2025 Darts Premier League in Cardiff.Luke the Nuke will face winless Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals on Night Eight in Newcastle next Thursday. More

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      in Boxing

      ‘My heart breaks’: Mike Tyson leads tributes to boxer George Foreman as Rumble in the Jungle icon dies age 76

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      GEORGE FOREMAN’S incredible career, life and legacy has been celebrated by boxing.The 76-year-old heavyweight icon died on Friday, his proud family announced.George Foreman has died at the age of 76Credit: RexThe heavyweight icon passed away on FridayCredit: APThe Punching Preacher won Olympic gold and had two reigns as heavyweight world championCredit: AP:Associated PressHe leaves behind a multi-million pound grill empire for his familyCredit: GettyThe Punching Preacher leaves behind an Olympic gold medal, two world title reigns, perhaps the most incredible comeback in sporting history, and a multi-million pound grill empire that will have secured his proud family for generations.Mike Tyson led the tributes, writing: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. “His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”Team GB super-heavy 2000 gold winner Audley Harrison added: “RIP to one of the greatest to ever do it.READ MORE IN BOXING“My heart breaks for George Foreman’s family and those closest to him, my condolences.“May his memory forever be a blessing.”Foreman began his devastating KO career as a sullen and menacing monster who battered 40 big men – including Joe Frazier and Ken Norton.But the 1974 Rumble in the Jungle loss to Muhammad Ali, where he succumbed to rope-a-dope tactics and exhaustion, humbled him.Most read in BoxingMike Tyson led tributes following his family’s announcementCredit: GettyForeman was humbled during his famous rumble in the jungle defeat to Muhammad AliCredit: RexOver a decade later he returned to the ring and went toe-to-toe with Evander HolyfieldCredit: RexForeman was sensationally crowned world champion at the age of 45Credit: AFPFollowing a year hiatus and impressive rebuild, the 1977 decision loss to Jimmy Young seemed to end Foreman’s career.And the once-violent mercenary turned into a gentle giant and a devout man of God.Legendary boxing writer Colin Hart remembers the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ on the 50th anniversaryBut a decade later –  aged 38 and with father time having swapped his six-pack and afro for a cuddly belly and smooth skull – Foreman returned to the ring to raise money for a youth centre.Initially his age and new figure had him labelled a laughing stock.But evergreen in-ring genius, a granite chin and that eternal power carried him to another 24 wins.Although the 1991 loss to Evander Holyfield, when he was 42, was long and one-sided and punishing, Foreman beamed behind sunglasses that he had proven a magnificent point to the world by going the distance with one of the best around at the time.The 1993 defeat to Tommy Morrison finally looked like the unavoidable end of the road for the 44-year-old.But he was handed a world title shot against 26-year-old undefeated world champ Michael Moorer next, in what was supposed to be an easy first defence for the southpaw.For nine rounds, 45-year-old Foreman was outboxed and made to look every inch of the ancient 18st relic he was perceived by most as.But in the tenth session he finally caught up with his prime opponent – who was 19 years his junior – and knocked him out with a sensational combination.I’m the last British reporter alive who was at Rumble in the Jungle… it was the most bizarre 10 days of my lifeOCTOBER 30th 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the Rumble in the Jungle, when Muhammad Ali confirmed his immortality by knocking out George Foreman to regain the world heavyweight championship, writes Colin Hart.That fabulous, mind-blowing fight that took place before an African dawn broke over Kinshasa has been described as the greatest sporting event of the 20th Century.Sadly, I’m the only British journalist who was at ringside that night who is still alive to tell the tale – of the most bizarre ten days of my working life.The first bell in Zaire sounded at 4am and the two men were each paid $5million – with president Mobutu Sese Seko putting up the money.Mobutu was probably the most terrifying, murderous dictator who ever ruled a nation on the African continent — and with Uganda’s Idi Amin as a rival, that is saying something.The Zairians were scared to death of him, with good reason – as the 20th of May Stadium’s walls pock-marked with holes from firing squads executing dissidents.He even threatened to shoot telex operators who were caught sleeping when journalists wanted to send their stories to editors back home.And that’s before the fight even started, with its throbbing tribal drums, 60,000 frenzied fans… and the debut of Ali’s iconic rope-a-dope.Read Fleet Street boxing legend COLIN HART’S full look back at the Rumble in the Jungle…Foreman said that miracle win laid to rest his ghosts of the Rumble in the Jungle.And the rest of the world – to this day – saw the incredible achievement, the transformation, as one of the greatest comeback tales in all of sport.Foreman’s family posted a beautiful tribute to the bonafide legend of boxing, saying: “A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose. “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected – a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name – for his family.“George touched countless lives with his warmth, humor, and wisdom leaving an indelible mark on the world. “We find solace in knowing he is now at peace with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whom he so passionately shared with the world.”“His legacy of love, faith, and strength will live on through his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and everyone who knew him.”Tributes have continued to flood in from fans and major names from the boxing world.Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh said: “Sad news for me and the boxing world… The last boxing pillar for an unforgettable era has passed away today… May his soul rest in peace, Big George Foreman!”Tony Bellew said: “RIP to one of the greatest human beings to ever put on boxing gloves.. This man was truly amazing! “There is no doubt imo he’s the greatest puncher boxing has ever seen.. Rest easy king the world is a lesser place without you..”READ MORE SUN STORIESTop Rank chairman Bob Arum said: “George was a great friend to not only myself but to my entire family. “We’ve lost a family member and are absolutely devastated”. More

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      in Boxing

      Who are George Foreman’s kids and was the sporting icon married?

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      GEORGE FOREMAN sadly passed away in March 2025 at the age of 76.The sporting icon, considered one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, died peacefully surrounded by his family.George Foreman, George Foreman Jr, and George Foreman IVCredit: GettyForeman’s loved ones broke the devastating news on Instagram – the statement read:  “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.”A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name— for his family.”We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”Read More on George ForemanWho are George Foreman’s kids?Foreman has 10 children, five sons, and five daughters.He also adopted daughters Isabella Brandie Lilja and Courtney Isaac. His biological children include: George Foreman Jr George Foreman IV (L) and George Foreman Jr. (R) at the second annual Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame induction gala in Las Vegas on August 9, 2014Credit: Getty Images – GettyWhile Foreman might be known for his boxing career, his first-born son decided to go in a different direction. Now, George Jr. is known as a producer. Over the years, he has worked on multiple projects, including American Inventor, Family Foreman, and Foreman. Outside of entertainment, George Jr. is known as the co-founder of IYC Capital, a Sacramento-based investment company. George Foreman IIIGeorge ‘Monk’ Foreman III is one of George Foreman’s sonsCredit: Getty Images – GettyGeorge ‘Monk’ III followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional boxer. He competed between 2009 and 2012 and earned a 16-0 record. After boxing, George III also stepped into business and cofounded EveryBodyFights boxing and gym. George Foreman IVGeorge IV has stayed away from the spotlight over the years but has dabbled in acting and producing. In 2016, he starred as Joshua BarAbba in the short Barabba and then went on to serve as a producer for the documentary Foreman the following year. George VGeorge V has also stayed out of the spotlight over the years as not much information is available on him. George Foreman VI George VI is Foreman’s youngest son. While he has often stayed out of the spotlight, it has been reported that he has been actively involved in the family’s business activities.George VI, who is said to be nicknamed Little Joey, is particularly involved in the management and promotion of the George Foreman Grill brand, according to reports.Natalia ForemanNatalie Foreman sings God Bless America at the PEAK Antifreeze Indy 300 Presented By Mr. Clean on September 9, 2007, at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, IllinoisCredit: Getty Images – GettyNatalia Foreman is known today as a singer and professor. Since 2014, she has taught at Long Star College, and according to her LinkedIn page, she is also a doctoral candidate at the University of St. Thomas. Leola ForemanLeola Foreman has also stayed out of the spotlight over the years as not much information is available on her. Michi ForemanMichi ForemanCredit: YoutubeLike some of her other siblings, Michi Foreman has also stayed out of the spotlight as not much information is available on her.Georgetta ForemanKenisha Norton (L), Georgetta Foreman (C), and Hana Ali (R) at the after party for the Los Angeles premiere of Focus World’s I Am Ali on October 8, 2014, in Hollywood, CaliforniaCredit: Getty Images – GettyGeorgetta Foreman is known for her career as a television producer. Over the years, she has worked on several legal shows, including Justice for All with Judge Cristina Perez, America’s Court with Judge Ross, and We the People with Judge Lauren Lake. She is also the mother of two children and often posts about her life on Instagram to over 2,200 followers.Freeda ForemanFreeda Foreman passed away in 2019Credit: Getty Images – GettyFreeda Foreman followed in the footsteps of her father and became a professional boxer in 2000. Shortly after, she retired with a 5-1 record and became a boxing promoter. Tragically, she passed away in March 2019 at the age of 42 from an apparent suicide, according to CNN. Why did George Foreman name all of his sons George? Traditionally, the father’s name is passed down to one son, and then it is up to that son to keep the legacy going. However, Foreman decided to break the tradition and name all of his sons George Edward Foreman.In March 2019, Foreman opened up about the decision and revealed that he did it to keep them united. “I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common,” he said at the time, via PEOPLE. “I say to them, ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together. And if one goes down, we all go down together!'”He then joked: “I tell people, ‘If you’re going to get hit as many times as I’ve been hit by Mohammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Ken Norton, Evander Holyfield, you’re not going to remember many names.'”While all his sons might share the name George, they have since earned nicknames, PEOPLE notes. George III goes by Monk, George IV goes by Big Wheel, George V goes by Red, and George VI goes by Little Joey. Was George Foreman married?Over the years, Foreman tied the knot five times.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis previous wives have included Adrienne Calhoun (1971-1974), Cynthia Lewis (1977-1979), Sharon Goodson (1981-1982), and Andrea Skeete (1982-1985).After his fourth divorce, Foreman married Mary Joan Martelly in 1985, with whom he was with until his death in March 2025. More

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      in Athletics

      BBC reporter comforts British sprinter as he chokes back tears in live TV interview after winning gold

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      SPEED KING Jeremiah Azu was close to tears as he became Britain’s 13th male world champion indoors.Thirteen days after he won gold at the Europeans, the Welshman sprinted to glory over 60 metres on day one of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing.Jermiah Azu gave an emotional victory to the BBCAzu, 23, had just produced an incredible performanceInitially it flashed up that he was second behind Australian Lachlan Kennedy in a dramatic photo finish.But then the scoreboard placed him first, thanks to his late dip, as he equalled his personal best time of 6.49 seconds, which had been set in Apeldoorn earlier this month.Holland-born Azu ran around the track in celebration and then spoke about his emotions during a whirlwind few weeks that had also seen him become a father for the first time.The 23-year-old – who won by a margin of 0.01 seconds from Kennedy – said: “I knew I could win it.READ MORE IN SPORT“It’s history to be a European and world champion in the same year. I’m excited for the future.“I said at the Europeans, I want to take over the world. This is just the start of our journey.“The plan is to keep on winning. This gives me massive confidence. The sky isn’t the limit – there’s way, way more than that. Let’s see what the summer brings – I’m excited for it.”Azu, who relocated from Italy to Wales after the Paris Olympics, is the fourth British man to win this sprint crown, following Jason Gardener (2004), Dwain Chambers (2010) and Richard Kilty (2014).Most read in AthleticsBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAzu won in a dramatic photo finishCredit: RexThe British star proudly holds up the GB flagCredit: RexHe said: “I was a bit emotional before the final with my coach. The last few years have been very difficult for me and this morning I was thinking about it and reflecting.“It’s so important to surround yourself with people that believe in you and who care about you. If I came last, they would be the same. That’s huge for me.Athlete disqualified for shameful act just centimetres from finish line that sparked fury “It’s been huge to move back to Cardiff. Family is everything to me. I sacrificed that for the last two years.“Being back with my family, having that support team around me, is huge.”They allow me to believe in myself and that’s something you can’t teach. It’s so important to success.”Britain’s 1500 metres runners Georgia Hunter Bell and Neil Gourley, the squad captain, and Amber Anning in the 400 metres all qualified fastest from their respective heats. More

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      in Boxing

      George Foreman dead aged 76: Legendary boxer who fought Muhammad Ali in iconic Rumble in the Jungle dies

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      LEGENDARY boxer George Foreman has died aged 76, his family have said.The sporting icon, a two-time heavyweight world champion, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday.George Foreman died on Friday, his family sayCredit: RexMuhammad Ali and Foreman during the Rumble in the Jungle in 1974Credit: AlamyForeman posing in a boxing stance during his heydayCredit: GettyGeorge Foreman with his George Forman grill range in Harrods, London in 2002Credit: RexForeman’s fight with Muhammad Ali at the Rumble in the Jungle is one of the most iconic bouts in the history of the sport.He later become the face and name of the George Foreman Grill, a business that earned him hundreds of millions of dollars after his retirement from sport.A statement from George’s family on his Instagram said: “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.”A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.Read more boxing”A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name— for his family.”We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”Mike Tyson led tributes following news of his death, sharing two photos of himself alongside Foreman.Tyson wrote: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”Most read in BoxingBasketball legend Scottie Pippen said: “Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ.”Foreman is in the boxing Hall of Fame and one of the most dangerous punchers to ever walk on Earth.The wild behind-the-scenes story of Rumble in the Jungle, when Ali and Foreman were BLOCKED from leaving ZaireBig George enjoyed a decorated career that saw him become heavyweight champion of the world twice in a career that spanned 30 years.He also remains the oldest ever heavyweight champion of all time.Foreman knocked out Michael Moorer in November 1994 to win the WBA and IBF belts aged 45 and 299 days.It came came 20 years after he had last been heavyweight champ in 1974.Foreman was one of the biggest punchers to ever lace up gloves and suffered just five losses in his 81-fight career.One of those few defeats was to Muhammad Ali, considered by many the greatest of all time, at the Rumble in the Jungle.I’m the last British reporter alive who was at Rumble in the Jungle… it was the most bizarre 10 days of my lifeOCTOBER 30th 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the Rumble in the Jungle, when Muhammad Ali confirmed his immortality by knocking out George Foreman to regain the world heavyweight championship, writes Colin Hart.That fabulous, mind-blowing fight that took place before an African dawn broke over Kinshasa has been described as the greatest sporting event of the 20th Century.Sadly, I’m the only British journalist who was at ringside that night who is still alive to tell the tale – of the most bizarre ten days of my working life.The first bell in Zaire sounded at 4am and the two men were each paid $5million – with president Mobutu Sese Seko putting up the money.Mobutu was probably the most terrifying, murderous dictator who ever ruled a nation on the African continent — and with Uganda’s Idi Amin as a rival, that is saying something.The Zairians were scared to death of him, with good reason – as the 20th of May Stadium’s walls pock-marked with holes from firing squads executing dissidents.He even threatened to shoot telex operators who were caught sleeping when journalists wanted to send their stories to editors back home.And that’s before the fight even started, with its throbbing tribal drums, 60,000 frenzied fans… and the debut of Ali’s iconic rope-a-dope.Read Fleet Street boxing legend COLIN HART’S full look back at the Rumble in the Jungle…Foreman, 25 years old at the time, came in as clear favourite with a 100 per cent record boasting 40 wins and 37 KOs.The two met in front of a 60,000-strong crowd in Zaire, now Democratic Republic of the Congo, before Ali used a new “rope-a-dope” tactic, to earn an incredible eighth-round knockout..An estimated one BILLION viewers watching from home.After the fight, Ali – who died in 2016 aged 74 – and Foreman put their differences aside and became the firmest of friends.Foreman’s final fight came in November 1997 – aged 48 years and 316 days – against then rising star Shannon Briggs.But he lost a controversial middle decision with many onlookers believing he had won the fight.READ MORE SUN STORIESForeman would retire soon after – and later become the face and name of the George Foreman Grill, which earned him hundreds of millions of dollars.The immensely popular electronic grill has gone on to sell well over 100 million units worldwide.Foreman landing a punch on his way to becoming the oldest heavyweight champion of all time against Michael Moorer during a bout in Las Vegas, NevadaCredit: GettyForeman training with a punching bag in New York in 1972Credit: GettyForeman showing off his muscles during a press conference at a Tokyo hotel on October 27, 1996Credit: AFP More

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      Thomas Tuchel scraps Gareth Southgate’s England tradition but move splits fans with some branding it ‘nonsense’

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      THOMAS TUCHEL divided fans with numbers – after ditching one of Gareth Southgate’s England traditions.The new boss used squad numbers for his starting team, whereas predecessor Southgate had preferred the good old one to 11.Goalscorers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane did a number on AlbaniaCredit: RexEngland lined up for the World Cup qualifier with their squad numbersThe only figure Tuchel might care about is the 2-0 margin by which the Three Lions saw off Albania in their World Cup qualifying opener.But many supporters were split after he abandoned Southgate’s nostalgic numbering, having also opted not to sing the national anthem before the match.It meant history-making Myles Lewis-Skelly wore the No 23 – which is five above his age.And England’s other full debutant, 32-year-old Dan Burn, was at 12.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne fan demanded a return to Southgate’s simplicity.He wrote: “England need to go back to 1-11 numbers on their shirts. What is this number 12, 17 & 23 in the starting XI nonsense?”Another said: “Why squad numbers? Should be 1-11.”But other viewers reckons it all just adds up to Tuchel going with the flow – by assigning squad numbers and keeping them for the games.Most read in FootballEngland ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSOne even claimed: “By far the most encouraging sign for England’s future under Thomas Tuchel is that they appear to have adopted permanent squad numbers instead of the starters always wearing 1-11.”Meanwhile, a few fans were more intrigued by irked.Thomas Tuchel prefers the highs and lows of squad numbersCredit: RexOne such observer posted: “Interesting seeing #England not wearing numbers 1-11!”In the end the debate didn’t subtract from an important victory, albeit one that was far more solid than scintillating.And apart from the scoreline, only two figures really stood out.The first was Lewis-Skelly scoring aged only 18 years and 176 days.So by 33 days he surpassed Marcus Rashford as the youngest player to net on his England debut.And the second noteworthy number was skipper Harry Kane rounding off the Wembley triumph with his 70th international goal.That takes Kane 17 clear of second-placed Wayne Rooney in the all-time list of Three Lions’ scorers. More