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      World Cup final stadium set to be abandoned by footy giants with plans to build 78,000-seater ‘Marvellous City’ arena

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      FLAMENGO are to leave the legendary Maracana Stadium for a new state-of-the-art stadium in Rio de Janeiro.According to Coliseum, the new ground’s designers Arena Events+Venues have presented their plans to the club’s board of directors and members.Flamengo are leaving the legendary Maracana Stadium to build their new home – imagined in this artist’s impressionCredit: https://www.coliseum-online.com/The new stadium is expected to have a capacity of 78,000Credit: www.coliseum-online.comThe ground will combine innovative design, state-of-the-art technology and a multifunctional visionCredit: https://www.coliseum-online.com/Flamengo’s new home in Rio will host football matches as well as a variety of eventsCredit: www.coliseum-online.comThis comes after the Brazilian giants submitted a winning bid to secure land at the Gasometro site in Rio for their new stadium, which is expected to have a capacity of 78,000.The ground will combine innovative design, state-of-the-art technology and a multifunctional vision.Flamengo’s new home in Rio will host football matches as well as a variety of events.It will offer unique experiences for fans and tourists, including the Flamengo Museum, a Megastore and a unique rooftop walkway with breathtaking views of the “Marvellous City”.Read More on FootballThe stadium is expected to be completed by November 15, 2029, coinciding with the club’s anniversary. Flamengo, though, are not ruling out the possibility of opening the stadium earlier. Arena Events+Venues CEO Carlos de la Corte said: “This project represents the fusion of tradition and innovation, uniting the passion for sports with a design that reflects the greatness of Flamengo and its fans, as well as the culture of Rio de Janeiro.“Our goal is to create a space that transcends sports, offering a lasting legacy for the country.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Maracana, though, will not be abandoned after Flamengo’s exit.The ground is still being used by Fluminense and Brazil’s national team.Bolivia move to stadium 2,000 FEET higher in bizarre bid to qualify for World Cup 2026 The esteemed Maracana has hosted two World Cup finals in 1950 and 2014.The stadium is expected to be completed by November 15, 2029Credit: https://www.coliseum-online.com/The decision means abandoning the Maracana, which has hosted two World Cup finalsCredit: ReutersGermany lifted the World Cup at the stadium in 2014Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      EFL could have managers’ ‘challenge’ system introduced in low-cost alternative to VAR

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      LOWER division clubs could see a “challenge” system in operation to overturn refereeing bloopers.Lawmakers on the International FA Board have agreed to extend the trials of their new “Football Video Support” system on a global basis.Lower league matches could get an alternative to VAR with a new ‘challenge’ systemCredit: PAIn a variation of VAR, the VS system is designed for competitions with only a handful of cameras.Coaches are allowed to call a challenge, with the referee then reviewing the incident on a pitch-side monitor, with the footage supplied by a video technician.As in cricket and tennis, successful challenges are retained with each team allowed two unsuccessful challenges per match.The system was trialled at the recent under-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic, where England finished fourth.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEngland coach Natalie Henderson successfully challenged a goal awarded to Mexico in their second group match, with the referee agreeing the ball had not crossed the line after a video review.And now Ifab bosses want to roll out what they view as a “low cost alternative to VAR” to both smaller countries and lower tier competitions in wealthier nations.Ifab technical director and former Premier League ref David Elleray said: “It is mainly designed for competitions where you’ve only got one, two, three or maximum four cameras.“So Leagues One and Two could be in that, or the National League, or whatever.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“And what it does emphasise – and away from VAR – is the clear and obvious concept.“Because when you’ve only got one camera it’s got to be pretty clear and obvious for the decision to be changed.Fans left stunned at worst VAR offside line in history as they joke ‘absolutely NOT rigged’ – but all is not as it seems“So it’ll either be at the top end of smaller countries or lower down in bigger countries.“FIFA have tested it, it’s working very well and therefore we will now explore where else it could be trialled, probably for next season.”EFL clubs have so far been resistant to bringing in VAR, with cost one issue.Many fans, though, have compared the EFL match-day experience favourably to the situation in the Prem when supporters frequently complained of feeling “in the dark” over VAR reviews.But Patrick Nelson, chief executive of the Irish FA who will host Ifab’s formal AGM in March that will confirm the policy, said: “We need to emphasise that it’s not VAR.“It’s different from VAR but it’s an alternative to it. And it relies upon the challenge system being promoted by the coaches.“In countries who have got VAR, three or four levels down the pyramid you might again have leagues with only one or two cameras.“We’re talking about two challenges per coach per game and it’s up to the coaches to determine when they want the referee to come over to the side and to take a look at something.“So we’re extending the trials on it and we’re trying to learn more about it. And as the price will come down, it will get democratised and hopefully it will get rolled out further.”But Ifab pushed back at the idea that the introduction of the system could eventually see a “hybrid” version of VAR, with video refs determining offside and line calls and subjective decisions open to challengeElleray added: “There’s no reason to have challenges with VAR because the video match officials check every single incident.READ MORE SUN STORIES“So there’s no need for the coach to say ‘please will you check if that was a penalty?’ because that happens automatically.“But with Video Support, because there’s no VAR checking, then  nothing is looked at until somebody asks you to look at it – so it’s completely different.” More

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      Fans convinced romantic Enzo Fernandez dedicated Chelsea goal to ‘new rapper girlfriend’ by referencing her song

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      CHELSEA star Enzo Fernandez extended his impressive goalscoring form against Aston Villa.Fernandez, 23, helped the Blues beat Villa 3-0 on Sunday at Stamford Bridge as he netted the second goal.Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez has created a new celebrationCredit: GettyFans claim Chelsea star Fernandez is dedicating his goals to new love interest Nicki NicoleCredit: GettyThe midfielder has now scored or assisted in four consecutive matches for the West Londoners across all competitions.The Argentina international also appears to have adopted a new signature celebration he debuted during the 2-1 win at Leicester two weeks ago.Fernandez has been striking a phonecall pose, which some fans believe has a special meaning.According to The Mail, supporters claim the ex-Benfica star is dedicating his goals to a new love interest.Read More on ChelseaAnd that is Argentinean rapper Nicki Nicole, who released a popular song last year called Llamame (Call Me).Neither Nicole nor Fernandez have commented or confirmed the reports linking them together.According to La Nacion, however, the pair are believed to have met at the end of October at Buenos Aires nightclub Moby Dick.They were filmed talking in the nightclub on TikTok, but after the video went viral the singer shared a comment stating she had attended the party with “the person [she is] currently dating”.Most read in FootballFernandez separated from childhood sweetheart Valentina Cervantes, with whom he shares two children, Olivia and Benjamin, at the end of October.Reports suggest the Chelsea star and Nicole linked up after he broke up with Cervantes.Premier League’s Biggest Spenders: Top 10 SeasonsThe 24-year-old artist has a staggering 22.6million followers on Instagram and is thought to have previously dated Formula One prospect Franco Colapinto.Fernandez will have to put his phone away and concentrate on football this week, with the thrid-placed Blues facing away trips to Southampton and Spurs.Nicole released a popular song last year called Llamame (Call Me)Credit: INSTAGRAMRising Williams star Franco Colapinto is said to have dated NicoleCredit: RexNeither Nicole nor Fernandez have commented or confirmed the reports linking them togetherCredit: INSTAGRAMNicole has a staggering 22.6million followers on InstagramCredit: INSTAGRAMNicole is thought to have previously dated Formula One prospect Franco ColapintoCredit: INSTAGRAMNicole and Fernandez are thought to have met in a Buenos Aires clubCredit: INSTAGRAM More

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      in Boxing

      Jake Paul in talks with five opponents including ex-world champion as date for YouTube star’s next fight targeted

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      JAKE PAUL is in talks with FIVE potential opponents – with dates and venues already pencilled in for his next fight. The YouTuber-turned-boxer defeated heavyweight great Mike Tyson in November over eight shorter two-minute rounds. Jake Paul and promotional partner Nakisa BidarianCredit: GettyAnd already Paul is weighing up his options for his return bout, which is set to come within five-eight months time. His promotional partner Nakisa Bidarian told SunSport: “In terms of his timeline to return, we’ve talked about anything from April to July.”We have a number of venues held through that time period and then we’re just having different discussions with potential opponents.”Tyson, 58, made his return after nearly 20 YEARS away from professional boxing to face Paul, 27. READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd despite the controversy surrounding the clash amid the age gap, over 100 MILLION tuned in on Netflix and 72,000 packed out the Dallas stadium. It was also Paul’s first fight at heavyweight, having jumped from the 200lb cruiserweight limit of 14st 4lb to scale 16st 2lb (227lb). But the American social media sensation is looking to move back down in weight for his next bout. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 38, told Mexican media that he was sent an offer to fight Paul. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Bidarian said: “So, I will say that we have not made an offer to any potential next opponent for Jake Paul.”And there is probably four or five different names that we’re considering at this point in time, but no one has received an offer of verbal written, indicative, nothing.Jake Paul’s girlfriend Jutta Leerdam steals the show in revealing slit dress for Mike Tyson fight”But yeah, I think Chavez is definitely someone that we had on our card and Tampa strategically to introduce him to Jake’s ecosystem of fans and absolutely is a potential fight for Jake Paul at some point.”Chavez is the son of Mexican icon Julio Cesar Sr and formerly held the WBC middleweight world championship. But he has endured commitment and substance abuse issues, even having stint in rehab. He was beaten by UFC legend Anderson Silva in 2021 – the Brazilian Paul defeated on points a year later. But Chavez returned with victory over MMA star Uriah Hall, 40, on Paul’s undercard in July and has since called out the 11-1 celebrity. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr is in talks to fight Jake PaulCredit: Esther Lin/MVP More

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      in Soccer

      Abandoned 35,016-seater Premier League stadium demolished for block of flats with only a statue left to remember it by

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      ALL that remains of Upton Park are a block of flats, an iconic statue and over a century of memories.West Ham proudly played their home games at the Boleyn Ground for 102 years before moving out in 2016.Upton Park has been replaced by a block flatsCredit: AlamyThere are 842 flats where the stadium used to beCredit: AlamyThe stadium was demolished after West Ham’s 2016 exitCredit: AlamyThe Hammers bid goodbye to Upton Park after a 2016 winCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe Hammers bid an emotional farewell to their historic home after a 3-2 victory over Manchester United in May 2016.They have since played their football a few miles away in Stratford, with its previous community largely left behind.Part of Upton Park was blown up for the 2018 film Final Score, starring Pierce Brosnan and Dave Bautista.It was then fully demolished, with 842 flats built in its place.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSunSport was last year told that the legacy of the site and its local significance has been reflected, with the block of flats featuring a “bubbles” theme – after the club’s trademark “Forever Blowing Bubbles” song.The complex – named Upton Gardens – features a variety of different properties, with a one bedroom flat starting at £350,000, and a two-bedroom maisonette valued at around £500k.West Ham’s departure has had a profound effect on the community.Nathan’s Pie and Eels, formerly an iconic local matchday eatery, permanently closed its doors in 2018, just two years after West Ham’s departure.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Hammers paid their former home an emotional farewellCredit: Getty Images – GettySeveral other businesses have either packed up and left, or faced a battle to survive.Remaining at the junction of Green Street and Barking Road is an iconic statue of Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters and Ray Wilson clutching the World Cup trophy.Moment huge brawl breaks out in West Ham end with punches thrown and fan knocked to ground in London derby vs ArsenalFollowing their move to Stratford, West Ham wanted to take the statue with them.But Newham Council sided with fans who were determined for the statue to stay put.As reported by The Athletic, some devoted West Ham fans still frequent The Boleyn Tavern on matchdays – a 40 minute trip on public transport from London Stadium.Ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal, one fan explained to them: “I’d rather spend my money here to help the pub.This iconic statue remains in E13Credit: Rex”Think about all the customers they’ve lost over the years. West Ham moving has impacted the area hugely.”When people ask me, ‘Are West Ham at home this week?’ I say, ‘No, they’re away at Stratford’. We don’t have a home ground anymore.”The atmosphere at the London Stadium is terrible. The away fans drown us out every week.”West Ham have enjoyed success since leaving Upton Park, most notably winning the Europa Conference League in 2023.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut many fans have always appeared to have an uneasy marriage with their modern home.After all, a huge chunk of the club’s soul will always remain in E13, where 842 flats now loom over the echoes of more than a century of history.Some fans still like to visit The Boleyn Tavern on matchdaysCredit: Getty More

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      in Boxing

      Moment Tyson Fury tells Oleksandr Usyk ‘you look like a sexy beast’ as heavyweight boxer shows off new look

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      TYSON FURY dubbed Oleksandr Usyk a “sexy beast” after getting a closer peek at his new look.The former undisputed heavyweight champion stunned boxing fans in October when he turned up to a pre-fight press conference dressed as Agent 47 from the ‘Hitman’ video game series.Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will renew their rivalry later this monthCredit: GETTYUnified heavyweight champ Usyk showcased a bold new look at a pre-fight press conference in OctoberCredit: REUTERSFury claimed Uysk looks like a ‘sexy beast’ with his bald headCredit: YOUTUBE@DAZNUsyk couldn’t help but chuckle at Fury’s bizarre complimentCredit: YOUTUBE@DAZNUsyk, 37, even shaved off all his hair in homage to the beloved video game character.And Fury said of Usyk’s new look with a smile on his face: “He looks like a sexy beast.””It suits him. The shaved him suits him. He looks sexy.”Explaining his new barnet, or lack of one, undefeated Ukrainian Usyk said: “Hair has a memory.READ MORE ON FURY VS USYK 2″Because my first fight [with Tyson] is in the past. And now, it’s the present and my focus is the 21st of December.”Fury and Usyk will run back their classic May melee in Saudi Arabia, although not all the heavyweight marbles will be on the line.Slick southpaw Usyk became the first undisputed king of the heavyweights in nearly 25 years courtesy of a split decision victory.Fury fumed in the aftermath of his first professional defeat, claiming Usyk was gifted the decision as his country is “at war” with Russia.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the Wythenshawe warrior WON’T walk back on his comments, saying: “No, I don’t regret anything.”Why would I regret that? Listen it was a close fight. Usyk got the [hand] raised like he just said and he won the fight. Fair play to him.’Horror movie’ trailer for Tyson Fury vs Usyk II released ahead of fight as fans hail ‘best one yet'”[I] don’t make excuses. The man beat me on the night – fair play. I believe I won the fight and that’s my opinion.”Just like if you had an opinion, he had an opinion and everybody had an opinion.”But he got his hand raised and I congratulated him. It’s on TV to see.”I kissed his cross and said thank you very much and happy New Year When we go again, we go again.”Fury insists he bears no ill will to Usyk, adding: “There’s no animosity, I don’t hate Usyk. He’s a good God-fearing Christian family man.”Why would I hate him? And he’s made me millions of dollars. I love him. I’ve got no hate.Tyson Fury has vowed to exact his revenge on Oleksandr Usyk later this monthCredit: GETTY”You can’t make hate between these two. He’s a boxer, I’m a boxer; it was a great fight.”Regardless of the decision. I’ve said this a million times, that’s fantastic for him and his family. Well done, congratulations.”Like you said, God gave him the result. Fantastic. But regardless of that, even from my point of view, it was a great fight to watch for the fans.”I’m sure that they were entertained. It had everything.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It had me doing great things, him doing great things and it was a great fight.”And that’s why we get to do it again on December 21.” More

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      in Athletics

      Who is Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s father Gjert?

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      NORWEGIAN middle and long-distance runners Jakob, Filip and Henrik have all become champions under the tutelage of their dad Gjert. But since stepping down as their coach, his Olympian sons have accused him of mental and physical abuse — here’s what we know.Gjert Ingebrigtsen coached his sons Jakob, Filip and Henrik until 2022Credit: AlamyAll three have alleged that their father exhibited abusive behaviourCredit: NikeWho is Gjert Ingebrigtsen?Gjert Ingebrigtsen is the father and former coach of Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and his brothers, who are also professional athletes.Respected for coaching his sons to international success in middle-distance running, he has recently become the subject of serious allegations and legal proceedings.Gjert coached his sons Jakob, Filip and Henrik until 2022.Remarkable successUnder his dad’s guidance, Jakob achieved remarkable success, including winning gold in the 5,000m at Paris 2024 and becoming a two-time world champion in the same distance.more on Jakob IngebrigtsenHis other sons also excelled, with Henrik and Filip both claiming European 1500m championships in 2012 and 2016 respectively.In 2022, Gjert stepped from coaching his sons for ‘medical reasons’ after Jakob secured the 1500m gold at the Tokyo Olympics.Abuse allegationsIn November 2023, Jakob and his siblings publicly accused their father of abusive behaviour, with the allegations outlined in Norwegian newspaper VG.The brothers expressed ongoing feelings of “discomfort and fear” regarding their father, describing him as “very aggressive and controlling”.Most read in AthleticsThese allegations led to legal action against Gjert Ingebrigtsen.Legal chargesIn April 2024, Gjert Ingebrigtsen was charged with physical abuse by Norwegian authorities.I was a reality TV star dubbed the ‘cardio Kim Kardashian’ – now I’m making my own way and targeting Olympic goldOn November 29, 2024, Gjert was indicted by the Norwegian public prosecutor’s office for physical and mental abuse of Jakob Ingebrigtsen.The trial is expected to take place in the first half of 2025, with the prosecution requesting at least 30 days for the proceedings.Gjert Ingebrigtsen’s denialsSince the allegations were first made, Gjert Ingebrigtsen has consistently denied any wrongdoing.Through his legal representatives, he has maintained that he does not accept criminal responsibility for the accusations.Henrik Ingebrigtsen (left) with his brothers Jakob and Filip (right)Credit: AFPGjert’s lawyers John Christian Elden and Heidi Reisvang said in a statement: “Gjert Ingebrigtsen maintains what he has said all along, that he does not admit criminal guilt for the offences he has been charged with and that he has never subjected any of his children to either physical or mental abuse.”DevelopmentsThe case has seen some developments since the initial charges were made.While Gjert currently faces one charge, five additional allegations were dismissed due to insufficient evidence.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnother was dropped due to time limitations.Mette Yvonne Larsen, representing the Ingebrigtsen children, has indicated that they intend to appeal at least one of the dismissed cases. More

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      Man Utd ‘eye Italy Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper in shock free transfer’ as fans question Andre Onana’s future

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are interested in signing Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret, according to reports.Meret, 27, will be out of contract at the end of the season.Alex Meret has been linked with Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Italian has remained Napoli’s No1 despite uncertainty surrounding his future.And he has done his stock no harm so far this term, helping Antonio Conte’s side top the Serie A table.According to Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, Man Utd are one of several teams interested in signing Meret.Links with the Napoli stopper have caught several supporters off guard.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSMan Utd No1 Andre Onana has been in good form this season, having settled into life at Old Trafford.And fans believe it would be strange to recruit a stopper unlikely to be happy with being back-up.One wrote on social media: “United? Meret will not come to be a no2.”While a second pointed to current deputy Altay Bayindir, saying: “If Bayindir is too good to be a number 2 then surely this guy is too.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMoment huge brawl breaks out in West Ham end with punches thrown and fan knocked to ground in London derby vs ArsenalOnana, 28, has kept six clean sheets in 13 Premier League appearances this season.He has played 70 times for the Red Devils in total since signing from Inter Milan.His No2 Bayindir, meanwhile, has made just three appearances in 18 months since signing for United, with Onana still preferred for the majority of cup matches.Should Man Utd turn their interest in Meret into a serious pursuit, they will face tough competition.Inter Milan are said to be one of several European sides chasing the goalkeeper’s signature.Since Onana’s departure, Yann Sommer has been Inter’s No1.Club chiefs may see Meret as an instant upgrade, particularly with Sommer aged 35.The three-cap Italy international, who was part of their Euro 2020-winning squad, has played for Napoli since joining from hometown team Udinese in 2018.He has kept 63 clean sheets in 189 appearances for Napoli, and has helped them to Serie A title and Coppa Italia successes.Altay Bayindir has played just three times for Man UtdCredit: Getty More