Sport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside glamorous life of Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Ashlyn, who was linked with another sports ace and Hollywood star

      by

      MODEL beauty Ashlyn Castro has turned Jude Bellingham’s head – and already charmed his parents. The American influencer, 27, has enjoyed a string of dates with the Three Lions hero in Madrid. Ashlyn Castro is dating England superstar Jude BellinghamCredit: instagramThe stunning American model hails from Los Angeles, CaliforniaCredit: instagramThe 27-year-old regularly updates her thousands of followers from locations around the worldCredit: instagramBellingham and Ashlyn were snapped enjoying a lunch date in MadridCredit: BackGridAshlyn and Bellingham were snapped heading for a lunch date in the Spanish capital earlier this week. It came after she watched the Real Madrid star from a private box at the Bernabeu alongside his parents Denise, 56, and dad Mark, 48.A model and influencer, Ashlyn hails from Los Angeles, California. She has been linked with a string of A-listers in recent years, including Creed actor Michael B. Jordan.READ MORE ON BELLINGHAMThe pair were rumoured to be dating after cosying up on the French Riviera in 2018.Jordan and Ashlyn were snapped dancing the night away as the pair swigged from bottles of champagne at a St. Tropez club.A year later, she denied online whispers she was dating basketball star LaMelo Ball.The rumour mill went into overdrive after one of Ashlyn’s followers congratulated her on the apparent relationship.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCastro originally liked the comment but later confirmed it was a mistake, insisting she was just friends with the NBA star.Ashlyn enjoys the jet-setting lifestyle and shares her worldwide travels to 154,000 Instagram fans. Fans hail ‘agent Jude Bellingham’ as England star is spotted with Real Madrid transfer target in nightclubWhile her bikini-clad snaps from beaches around the world have amassed thousands of admirers. She has recently posted snaps from high-end eateries in New York, LA and Madrid.The influencer is also a big hit on TikTok, posting regular makeup tutorials and amassing over 1 million likes.Despite her globetrotting lifestyle online, Ashlyn likes to keep her personal life away from the spotlight.After tragically losing her father to Covid in 2021, she wrote on Instagram in a moving tribute: “I’ve never been one to share anything too personal on [social media].”I keep the people I love most closest to my heart, I want to protect them at all costs.”Ashlyn regularly posts content from cities around the worldCredit: instagramBellingham and the influencer have exchanged likes on their respective social mediaCredit: instagramAshlyn boasts over 150,000 followers on Instagram aloneCredit: instagramShe is also active on TikTok, giving makeup tutorials and fashion adviceCredit: instagramCastro watched Bellingham play from a private box at the Bernabeu in midweekCredit: instagramAshlyn grew up in Los Angeles and has previously been linked with Michael B. JordanCredit: instagramBellingham, 21, has been dubbed one of the world’s most eligible bachelors.In the space of four years, the Stourbridge native went from playing in the Championship with Birmingham to lifting the Champions League trophy with Real. He penned a monster £70million contract after joining Real from Dortmund in a £115m deal.Bellingham and England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday to LA after last summer’s Euros.Shortly after, he and Castro began exchanging likes on their respective Instagram pages.The £220,000-a-week midfielder split from Ghanaian model Asantewa Chitty in 2023.He was linked with a “completely smitten” Laura Celia Valk last summer.But the Dutch beauty has since confirmed she is single in a recent Q&A with fans.Bellingham has settled into life in the Spanish capital, living in the exclusive La Finca neighbourhood alongside a host of A-list stars.Properties fetch up to £11million in the area, which offers the privacy that Bellingham craves.Jude’s teammate Kylian Mbappe has also bought in the district, which is guarded by round-the-clock security and infrared cameras.Bellingham’s mum Denise moved over with her boy to get him adjusted to life in Spain. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe explained: “My mum is there to just keep everything neutral really. “Without my mum, sometimes I’d get too low with the lows or too high with the highs and I stay pretty humble because I’ve got her around.”Bellingham has become a superstar since switching Dortmund for Real MadridCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares129 Views

      in Motorsport

      ‘I think he’s lost his edge’ fears F1 legend Martin Brundle after watching Lewis Hamilton’s first drive for Ferrari

      by

      FORMULA ONE icon Martin Brundle believes Lewis Hamilton’s best days are behind him – but could still win an eighth title. Seven-time world champion Hamilton is racing for Ferrari in the upcoming 2025 season. Lewis Hamilton has completed his first practice session as a Ferrari driverCredit: GettyThe seven-time champ was slower than teammate Charles Leclerc in the new carCredit: GettyF1 legend Martin Brundle believes the 40-year-old is past his bestCredit: AlamyThe 40-year-old completed his first test laps for his new team on Wednesday.It came almost a year after Hamilton shocked the world of F1 by declaring he was leaving Mercedes for the Italian giants.Hamilton’s lap times were released on Thursday as he gets to grips with the new Ferrari. But Brundle – who spent over a decade in F1 between 1984 and 1996 – fears Hamilton has lost some of the verve that made him a fearless champion. READ MORE ON F1Brundle told Sky Sports: “Do I think the best of Lewis Hamilton is ahead or behind him? I think it’s behind him. “I think he’s lost the edge, sometimes he gets in scuffles he used to emerge out in front of.”Hamilton’s practice lap times were slower than teammate Charles Leclerc.They also lagged behind the pace set by Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher during his first laps with the team. Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDespite the slow start, Brundle is confident Hamilton will be “re-energised” by the new surroundings. He continued: “I think 96/97 per cent of Lewis Hamilton in a winning car is still good enough.Lewis Hamilton visits Ferrari HQ as he arrives at Maranello for his first official day with the Scuderia “His energy and his enthusiasm will be re-energised by the whole experience.”He will not be overwhelmed by driving a Ferrari, as so many drivers have been.”And despite Leclerc showing his speed in practice, Brundle believes Lewis is still in contention of winning a historic 8th title.He continued: “This is only Hamilton’s third team in Formula 1, and he will want to go there and show that, despite just turning 40, he’s not over the hill like some people were saying last year.”He will want to show he has made the right decision again. He will go there full of energy.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Lewis will have to face that, and the fact Leclerc is incredibly fast. “But I have no doubt that if Ferrari have a race-winning car or a championship-winning car, then Lewis can win races and even the championship.” More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      David Gaskell dead aged 84: Tributes pour in for Man Utd’s youngest-ever player as Busby Babes star passes away

      by

      FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper David Gaskell has passed away aged 84 following a brief battle with illness.United sadly announced their former stopper’s passing in a statement on Friday night.Former Manchester United goalkeeper David Gaskell has died aged 84Credit: REXGaskell passed away following a brief bout of illnessA segment read: “Manchester United is saddened to learn of the passing of our former goalkeeper David Gaskell, a figure with a special place in club history.”News of Gaskell’s passing was confirmed to the club by his family, who paid a touching tribute.They said: “Dave was devoted to his beloved wife, Barbara, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage.”He was a proud father to his three daughters, Michelle, Lesley, and Nicola, and a loving grandfather to Joel, Emily, Eleanor, Ted, and Edith.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS”His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on through them.”In these past few weeks of illness, Dave was surrounded by the love and support of the many friends he made throughout his life—friends who, like so many in Wrexham and beyond, will miss him dearly.”Dave Gaskell leaves behind not just a remarkable sporting legacy, but an enduring example of kindness, dedication, and humility.”He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”Most read in FootballDavid Gaskell still holds the record of being Manchester United’s youngest-ever playerCredit: GETTYGaskell was part of the Busby BabesCredit: PAThe Old Trafford faithful were quick to pay tribute to the late Gaskell, with one writing on X: “Rest easy! Your work is done.”Another said: “Rest in peace champ. Once a Red, aways a Red.”And another said: “RIP.”One remarked: “This is so sad May his soul rest in peace.”Another chimed in: “May he rest in peace.”Gaskell – who was one of the legendary Busby Babes – made a total of 96 appearances for United during a 12-year stay at the club. He made history in his debut against Manchester City in October 1956 by becoming the club’s youngest-ever player. Gaskell was 16 years and 19 days old when he played in the 1956 FA Charity Shield, which United won 1-0.His displays in the Manchester derby saw Sir Matt Busby hand him an immediate promotion to the first team. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe’d spend 11 seasons with United before moving to Wigan Athletic. Gaskwell would then enjoy spells with Wrexham and Arcadia Shepherds – who proved to be his last club – following a single season stay with The Latics. More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      England ace Jude Bellingham pictured for first time with stunning model girlfriend…and she’s already met his parents

      by

      ENGLAND ace Jude Bellingham is seen for the first time with his new Instagram model girlfriend.The Real Madrid star, 21, has been on a string of dates with American Ashlyn Castro, 27 — who met his parents this week in the Spanish capital.Real Madrid star, Jude Bellingham 21, has been on a string of dates with American Ashlyn Castro, 27Credit: InstagramEngland ace Jude seen for the first time with his new Instagram model girlfriend AshlynCredit: BackGridAshlyn is from Los Angeles where Jude and best mate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday after the Euros in JulyCredit: InstagramInstagram model Ashlyn Castro chatted to Jude’s mum Denise, left, and dad Mark, second from left, in Real Madrid’s WAGS and family boxCredit: BackGridInstagram model Ashlyn chatted to his mum Denise, 56, and dad Mark, 48, in Real Madrid’s Wags and family box on Wednesday.The American even hugged Denise as Jude’s team ran out 5-1 winners against Salzburg in the Champions League.England superstar Jude and Ashlyn then went for lunch together the next day.Pals say they have been on several dates after they began liking each other’s social media posts.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL NEWSJude was said to have been particularly drawn to one in November featuring pictures of Ashlyn in a low-cut dress laying on a bed.She is from Los Angeles where Jude and Three Lions team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday after the Euros in July.Ashlyn, who has 140,000 Instagram followers, was rumoured to have previously dated Creed actor Michael B Jordan and was linked with basketball player LaMelo Ball, 23.Ashyn sips a drink in the executive box with the star’s parentsCredit: BackGridThe American even hugged Jude’s mum Denise after the final whistleCredit: BackGridDespite the 5-1 drumming, Ashlyn did not appear to be overawed by the occasion as she watched from the executive box in the stands with Jude’s parentsCredit: BackGridShe suffered heartbreak in July 2021 when her dad died from Covid, aged 59. In a touching ­tribute, she described him as “superman to me”.Most read in FootballJude was crowned Britain’s most eligible bachelor by posh gossip magazine Tatler in October.It said: “For this midfielder, it’s all about the right or left swipe — and we aren’t talking about footwork. Rumours are swirling that he’s on celeb dating app Raya.”Wholesome moment Jude Bellingham leaves a young Real Madrid fan crying with happiness as he hands him his shirtIn April there was speculation that Jude had been dating model Laura Celia Valk, 26, who was said to be “completely smitten”. Last month she said she was single.In 2023 he was reportedly dating Ghanaian model Asantewa Chitty. He is also said to have dated US TikTok star Azra Mian. In 2023 The Sun revealed he had been ­messaging R&B singer Rmarni. Last night Jude’s agent and Real Madrid were approached for comment. The Sun also sought comment from Ashlyn.Jude and Ashlyn went for lunch in Madrid the day after the match, which Real won 5-1Credit: BackGridPals say Jude and Ashlyn have been on several dates after they began liking each other’s social media postsCredit: BackGridAshlyn and Jude seemed happy to wander the busy streets of Madrid as they enjoyed their public lunch dateCredit: BackGridThe lunchtime outing was the first time the pair have been seen in publicCredit: BackGridJude ended up on the winningCredit: GettyAshlyn’s photos have earned her 140,000 followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has also been previously linked with American basketball player LaMelo BallCredit: instagramA series of stunning pictures on Instagram are said to have grabbed Judes’s attention, according to palsCredit: InstagramJude’s heart seems to have been captured by Ashlyn’s stunning styleCredit: InstagramIn 2023 The Sun revealed he had been ­messaging R&B singer Rmarni, but it seems he now only has eyes for AshlynCredit: InstagramBefore meeting Ashlyn, rumours suggested the ace was on celebrity dating app Raya.Credit: InstagramAshlyn suffered heartbreak in July 2021 when her dad died aged 59 just 14 days after catching coronavirus, but it looks like Jude is helping her enjoy life againCredit: Instagram More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Eric Cantona kung-fu kick was crazy… but Premier League stars are now sterile, boring robot clones – let them be human

      by

      THIRTY years on from Eric Cantona’s kung-fu kick and I can remember it like it was yesterday.I was allowed to watch the highlights the following morning as a six-year-old.Eric Cantona was given his marching orders at Crystal Palace 30 years agoCredit: PAThe Frenchman was goaded by a fan and sensationally karate kicked himCredit: REXThe outrageous incident is still one of the craziest in Premier League historyCredit: AFPIt was just crazy, wasn’t it?After being red-carded at Crystal Palace, the Manchester United maverick copped abuse from home fans as he walked off.His response? He launched himself at one of his tormentors.If anything, Cantona became an even bigger superstar because of it, single-handedly taking the recently formed Premier League to another level in terms of the drama and theatre of it all.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSIt’s infamous. Do you know how angry you’ve got to be to do that?I’m an angry person and during my career I thought about smacking an abusive fan in the stands but never had the guts to do it.And yet here was Cantona – one of the best we have ever seen in the Premier League era, in English football – and he just snapped.I can safely say we will never see anything like that in football again.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSEric Canto’s infamous karate kick was indefensibleCredit: PAIn principle, that is a good thing.You can’t behave like that on a football pitch, no matter how much abuse you’re receiving from supporters – whether racial, homophobic or just downright horrible.Ruben Amorim celebrates Man Utd’s 2-1 win over Rangers We don’t want to see people being assaulted, just like we didn’t want to see Paolo Di Canio at Sheffield Wednesday shove referee Paul Alcock to the ground, in 1998.But there is a part of me that thinks we have gone too far the other way.The players in the Prem now are almost like robots.Why shouldn’t they be able to react like a human, within reason?Instead, they come across as incredibly restrained, watered down, so much so that the game can be a bit sterile.It’s all about preserving the ­business side of things as opposed to entertainment and shock and awe.I used to love watching ‘Premier League Years’, a programme on Sky looking back at old seasons.Paolo Di Canio was banned for shoving a refereeCredit: Sky SportsYou see some of the more recent ones now and even the celebrations are boring.We haven’t got personalities any more … a Cantona, a Di Canio, a Paul Gascoigne.That maverick, rough-around-the-edges type who can make a mistake but we don’t kill them for it.Cantona was rightly criticised and punished for his actions, serving a nine-month ban, but it was also right for him to be welcomed back once he had done his time.Can you imagine if a Prem player did a ­similar thing now?Their career would be over, discarded for good, sponsorship deals ripped up, left in the gutter, labelled a criminal, an animal.In the modern game, there has to be a balance, to encourage individuality without crossing a line.Otherwise, we will just be watching 11 clones against another 11 clones every season.We seem to put massive pressure on players to be perfect in everything they do but no one is perfect.We see so many examples even today of fans going out of their way to discriminate against and antagonise players.This week alone, a teenager has been banned for three years for making racist gestures at a Peterborough match last year.And another has been arrested and released on bail after the wife of Arsenal star Kai Havertz received horrific messages on Instagram.Declan Rice was pelted with plastic cups and other missiles during Arsenal’s Champions League win over Dinamo Zagreb in midweek.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd yet it is footballers who are constantly being told NOT to react.That is not what made the Premier League the best in the world, on and off the pitch.Players are in danger of becoming robots, Troy Deeney believesCredit: REX More

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Football should trial return of pints in the stands… but can minority of fans be trusted to show we’re past dark days?

      by

      AS ladies say ‘cheers’ to drinking alcohol in the stands at Women’s Championship matches, the chance of a return to a beer or two on all the men’s terraces are about as high as Accrington Stanley winning League Two.Actually, Accrington’s average attendance of 2,509 would be a very good ground at which to start serving alcohol as policing any noisy drunks would be a simple process.There isn’t a measurable risk of violent drunks at Women’s Championship matchesCredit: GettyKarren Brady is happy to let responsible drinkers drink, it’s the rest of them she worries about . . .Credit: PABut it isn’t going to happen at Wham Stadium which, incidentally, is not named after (the late and great) George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley’s pop pairing.Nor anywhere else, at least not in the near future.Drinking alcohol within view of the playing field was stopped in 1985 after a sequence of events involving noisy, sometimes violent, spectators.There are no moves to change the law although there are many ways of buying alcohol beyond a pitch view, and a recent study showed Chelsea fans top the beer table, drinking on average six pints a game.Read More on FootballAt that rate, they might need a half-time substitution for their liver more than their team.The police and stewards are on the look-out for drunks or people bringing alcohol into grounds although some still try. A Leeds supporter succeeded in 2012 and, should anyone need convincing that the ban should end, the facts were he assaulted Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Chris Kirkland after running on to the pitch.It transpired that the offender drank countless cans of lager and a bottle of vodka on the journey to the ground. In Sheffield he then drank at least seven pints of cider.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesI feel woozy even writing that. He was jailed for 16 weeks and banned from football grounds for six years.There isn’t a measurable risk of violent drunks at Women’s Championship matches and it made sense supporters should be able to drink wisely during this trial.Watch Ireland captain Katie McCabe star in hilarious Adidas ad ahead of new WSL season with ArsenalIt’s a different crowd, reflected in the fact government data revealed there had been no arrests recorded at women’s football matches.The end of restrictions is positive for several reasons — extra revenue, another attraction for people to attend, and even a tot to cheer fans of the losing side.Supporters of a return to drinks during play can point to rugby and cricket for freedom from limitations.At the Ireland v Scotland match a record 137,000 pints of beer were sold at Stade de France.There was a mass brawl, but that was on the pitch between the players. Drinkers at cricket are often asleep anyway.Women tend to follow the rules rather than consider them a nuisance. We despise violence and bad behaviour, both of which are much more prevalent among men and it is unlikely many will see pie-eyed woman causing trouble at matches.Maybe solution lies in compromiseI would love to make a bonfire of all restrictions but I don’t think it would be possible or responsible.Ultimately, the question isn’t just about alcohol — it’s about trust. Have fans moved on from the dark days of the 80s? Can clubs strike the right balance between modernisation and maintaining order?In football, intensity and passion run high. Add alcohol to this and it can be a problem.The last thing clubs or fans want is a descent into chaos because of a few irresponsible drinkers.The landscape of football has been transformed in those 40 years. Stadiums are safer, crowds are more diverse, and family-friendly atmospheres have replaced toxic environments of the past.Perhaps the solution lies in compromise. Limited trials at selected matches could provide data on whether ending the ban works.READ MORE SUN STORIESGuidelines would have to be stringent and include steps such as alcohol-free zones, stricter ID checks, and time-limited drinking.I am happy to let responsible drinkers drink, it’s the rest of them I worry about . . . More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      Inside crazy world of Ferrari Lewis Hamilton has joined from bonus payments and spygate scandal to gifting Brit a house

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON has been thrust into the crazy world of Ferrari.And from bonus payments to bust-ups, it’s not all “Dolce Vita” at the Italian team.Lewis Hamilton pictured on his first official day working at FerrariCredit: INSTAGRAM@SCUDERIAFERRARIHamilton was overjoyed to have joined the F1 powerhousesCredit: INSTAGRAM@SCUDERIAFERRARINot to mention the notorious “Spygate” scandal that nearly broke Ferrari and convulsed Formula One in 2007. F1’s most iconic team have produced box office moments since their debut in the sport in 1950.So SunSport has compiled a list of everything you need to know about the Italian powerhouse.The TifosiHamilton has already met the Tifosi – Ferrari’s loyal Italian fanbase with its name originating from the Ancient Greek “typhos” – for the bonfire smoke ancient Olympian fans would experience after a win. READ MORE SPORT STORIESThey have made their mark as F1’s most boisterous and vibrant fan base, becoming the beating heart of Ferrari’s rich history. Seven-time world champion Hamilton has been doing his best to brush up on his Italian, speaking the language on his first day on the job in Maranello. He was filmed saying “Tutto Bene?” to the Tifosi, which in English means “all good?”Bonus paymentCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Concorde Agreement is effectively the document that binds F1 together, setting out both the framework of the rules and the commercial terms, including the amount of prize money the teams receive.Most read in MotorsportFerrari‘s importance to F1 – as the sport’s most famous manufacturer and the only team to have participated in every season of the World Championship since it inauguration in 1950 – has seen the Scuderia controversially rewarded with extra bonus payments over the years.Ferrari urged to rip up Lewis Hamilton’s contract by F1 legend after star’s ‘worrying’ admission Inside track on Hamilton’s lifeLEWIS HAMILTON has driven his way into pole position as Formula One’s most prolific winner.Ferrari’s special treatment is set to continue – albeit at a reduced level – under the new Concorde Agreement for 2026.For example, in 2016, Ferrari trousered a whopping £139MILLION from Formula One’s prize pot – despite finishing in THIRD place.The Italian team will earn more than champions Mercedes or second-placed Red Bull due to a lucrative agreement with the sport’s former chief Bernie Ecclestone.Spygate scandalIn 2007, the F1 world was shaken in the wake of the now-infamous “Spygate” saga.It resulted in McLaren receiving an unprecedented and eye-watering $100m fine and being thrown out of the 2007 constructors’ championship. The scandal followed Ferrari chief mechanic Nigel Stepney stealing nearly 800 pages of confidential technical information from the company and giving them to his friend Mike Coughlan, who was the Chief Designer at McLaren.Stepney was exposed after asking his wife to copy the secret documents at a local photocopy shop, in Woking, and a worker informed Ferrari.It cost both men their jobs and led to Ferrari taking legal action against Coughlan, who reached an agreement with the racing giant. Following the uproar, an investigation from McLaren found none of the documents “had been passed to any other members of the team or incorporated into our cars”.However, when new evidence was produced, McClaren was disqualified from the championship and served the record-breaking fine. That year, the battle between Fernando Alonso and Hamilton led to Kimi Raikkonen sweeping in and claiming the 2007 title.Nigel Stepney leaked confidential Ferrari documentsTeam order chaosFernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were involved in a major controversy when they were teammates in Ferrari in 2010. There was a major bust-up over team orders at the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim in 2010. Ever since 2002, the FIA banned any kind of team orders from teams to their drivers during an F1 race weekend. This meant no team could order drivers to switch positions or perform any other trick. In 2010, Sebastian Vettel was well on his way to winning his first world championship when he qualified on pole for the German Grand Prix but did not get a good start. This allowed both Ferrari drivers to overtake Vettel, with Massa leading the race while Alonso was second. Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were involved in a major controversy when they were teammates in Ferrari back in 2010.Credit: APBy lap 47 Alonso was close to Massa and clocking faster lap times, prompting a radio call from the Brazilian’s race engineer. It said: “Fernando is faster than you. Confirm you understood the message?” After the message, Massa suddenly slowed down, allowing Alonso to easily pass him. Although there were no direct orders from the Ferrari pit wall it was clear the team had given Massa a nudge. After the race, team principal Stefano Domenicali, manager Massimo Rivola and both Ferrari drivers were summoned by the stewards for a reported breach of sporting regulations.Home is where the heart isLewis Hamilton has been gifted a new home in Italy to ease him into his move to Ferrari.After landing in Italy last Sunday, Hamilton was treated to a tour of the factory by the team’s bigwigs including team principal Frederic Vasseur, and chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna. The tour also visited the Fiorano house occupied by the team’s founder Enzo Ferrari, and the pit garage at the track. The team have pulled out all the stops to make the Brit feel at home, with them handing over the keys to a local property to help him soak up the Ferrari-mad country. Lewis Hamilton greets Ferarri fans arriving at the Fiorano CircuitCredit: GETTYSharing his first thoughts about the £50million move on Instagram, Sir Lewis wrote: “There are some days that you know you’ll remember forever.”And today, my first as a Ferrari driver is one of those.’I’ve been lucky enough to have achieved things in my career I never thought possible.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But part of me has always held on to that dream of racing in red. I couldn’t be happier to realise that dream.”We start a new era in the history of this iconic team, and I can’t wait to see what story we will write together.” More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Kyle Walker & Annie Kilner’s move to Milan to put sex scandals behind him – but will he escape Lauryn Goodman?

      by

      TOUCHING down in Italy to embark on a new chapter of his career, Kyle Walker now wants to say “arrivederci” to his scandals back home.The England defender, 34, sealed his loan move to Serie A giants AC Milan on Thursday after eight highly successful but incident-packed years with Manchester City.Kyle Walker sealed his loan move to Serie A giants AC Milan in ItalyCredit: AlamyLong-suffering wife Annie Kilner will keep close eye on Kyle as he enjoys life in the new cityCredit: BackGridKyle, Annie and their kids in Christmas PJs on InstagramCredit: InstagramReality star Lauryn Goodman continues to make their lives a misery and told pals she wants to follow the footballer wherever he goesCredit: AlamyHe hopes to start afresh by moving away from the goldfish bowl of Cheshire and the constant noise ­surrounding his dalliances with Lauryn Goodman — mistress and mother of his two love-children.Kyle’s marriage to embattled wife Annie Kilner, 33, is dangling by the thinnest of threads.An insider told The Sun: “Annie has made it clear to friends she is making the move to Italy for the sake of her family, telling them, ‘I’m doing it for the boys’.“Getting away from the UK and the noise surrounding Kyle’s sex scandals is what they desperately need. They feel smothered.Read More on Sport“It’s been a traumatic 12 months and they now just want to put it behind them and attempt to lead some sort of normal existence for a while.”Last night Kyle said on Instagram: “Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true.“Seven years later, winning 17 trophies . . . is something I could only have dreamt as a child.“To my teammates: from the moment I walked through the door, thank you for the great memories and all the success we have shared.Most read in Football‘Annie feels terrorised by it all’“To [manager] Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me . . . your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.“To Annie and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey, thank you.Kyle Walker lands in Italy to complete AC Milan loan deal“Lastly, to the fans — thank you for embracing me as one of your own from day one.”The insider added: “Annie is still intent on going through with the divorce, which Kyle won’t oppose, but the longer they remain together, the more chance they have of eventually reconciling against the odds.“Kyle accepts that he is taking his problems with him and won’t ever escape what he has done.“This is an opportunity for him to get some breathing space and for the couple to work out their next steps.”Annie and their four boys will fly to Italy by private jet from Manchester Airport ahead of Milan’s Serie A showdown against Parma tomorrow.They will be in the San Siro to watch Kyle unveiled to the Rossoneri but will return to the UK hours later as Kyle settles into life in Milan with his new teammates.Wag Zoe Cristofoli is the partner of French defender Theo HernandezCredit: Instagram @zoe_cristofoliStunning Instagram model ­Agustina Gandolfo is the wife of Inter captain Lautaro MartinezCredit: https://www.instagram.com/agus.gandolfo/?hl=enIlaria Belloni is the partner of Kyle’s new captain with the Rossoneri, Davide CalabriaCredit: InstagramCatwalk queens at Milan Fashion Week last yearCredit: GettyThe star cannot play for the seven-time European champions until next month, due to Brexit red tape.The full-back’s new club is finding the couple and their four children a mansion to live in, rather than a hotel, which is a more common move for new signings.The pair are already eager to start ­getting used to Italian culture.For now, Annie is said to be keen to maintain their kids’ schooling in the UK until they have found a home in Milan — but that will hinge on Kyle securing a permanent move.Annie will begin making plans, while back in the UK, to move the family. She is keen for them to begin a new life abroad as soon as possible — once schools have been identified and they have worked out where they want to live.AC Milan’s English trio includes Ruben Loftus-CheekCredit: RexTammy Abraham also plays for the RossoneriCredit: GettyFikayo Tomori will also be one of Walker’s new teammatesCredit: GettyIn the meantime, they expect to fly between the UK and Italy, to be with Kyle as he begins the next chapter in his footballing career.Once they do find a home, would-be interior designer Annie will have the chance to put her own stamp on the property and turn it into a proper home, where their three eldest children Roman, 12, Riaan, eight, and six-year-old Reign, will be home-schooled, while she dotes over five-month-old Rezon.If the move to Milan works out, sparking an extended spell beyond this season — his £4.2million loan deal includes an option for him to stay permanently until 2027 — it is likely they will be enrolled in a top international school nearby.The move to Italy also means that the couple will have put several countries between themselves and reality star Lauryn, 34, who continues to make their lives a misery.The influencer has told pals she wants to follow the footballer wherever he goes in a bid to force him to have a relationship with their two young kids — Kairo, four, and one-year-old ­Kinara.And that is despite Kyle paying for her £2.4million West Sussex mansion and providing £12,500 a month in child maintenance.They could go to the ends of the Earth and still not escape LaurynAn insiderThe insider added: “They could go to the ends of the Earth and still not escape Lauryn.“Because of what he’s done, she is going to be in their lives for a long time to come and there’s nothing they can do about it.“It’s all Annie thinks about. She feels terrorised by it all and worries constantly about what Lauryn is likely to do next.”Kyle informed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola of his wish to move abroad earlier this month after he was left out of the Premier League champions’ squad for their FA Cup third-round clash against Salford City, despite being fit and available to feature.The Catalan manager said at the time: “Two days ago Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career.“He arrived eight years ago with us and we start to win, win, win, win, and he has been important for the national team and, of course, with our team.“But he has said he wants to explore in his mind and in his heart.”The switch comes 12 months after the defender told The Sun in a bombshell interview in January last year that he was close to agreeing a move to top German outfit Bayern Munich in July 2023 to escape his looming baby scandal.Packed with lavish nightclubs and barsClubs in the lucrative Saudi league were first mooted as his likely destination, buoyed perhaps by an expensive impending divorce.But Kyle’s determination to remain playing at the top level and win 100 caps for England (he’s just seven appearances away from the feat) under new boss Thomas Tuchel made the move to Italy a more attractive option.And he did not need much ­persuasion to join, as both Milan clubs — AC Milan and Inter — are top-tier sides, while the city is regarded as a Wags’ paradise.After all, it is the home of luxury fashion brands including Prada, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci, and their respective stores are commonly ­visited by Wags with expensive tastes who also compete for front-row seats during the star-studded Milan Fashion Week shows.The cosmopolitan nightlife is also a big pull, as locals identify with the “work hard, play hard” mantra, while the city is packed with lavish nightclubs and bars, often frequented by footballers and their glamorous partners.Kyle and Annie will have help settling into their new surroundings courtesy of AC Milan’s English trio Tammy Abraham, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori. Striker Tammy, 27, who joined Milan from Serie A rivals Roma, has a long-term partner in lifestyle blogger Leah Monroe, 25, and is the father of her one-year-old son Amari.His former Chelsea teammates Ruben, 29, and Fikayo, 27, both appear to be single.But they have been previously linked with Love Island stars Amber Davies and Amber Gill respectively.The two Milan clubs currently possess some of Italy’s most talked-about Wags, who will soon be mingling with the Walkers at the San Siro — the iconic 80,000-seater stadium both teams share.Annie feels terrorised by it all and worries constantly about what Lauryn is likely to do nextAn insiderStunning Instagram model ­Agustina Gandolfo, 29, is the wife of Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, 27 — the Argentinian striker who won the World Cup alongside Lionel Messi in Qatar in 2022.The blonde boasts her own brand as a fitness and healthy lifestyle expert — and an impressive one million followers on Instagram.She also runs her own restaurant in Milan called Coraje.A regular sight in the Wags’ section at Walker’s AC Milan, meanwhile, is tattooed model Zoe Cristofoli, partner of French defender Theo Hernandez, 27.The influencer, 29, loves getting inked so much she even owns her own parlour Ink Studio Lagrange, based in Turin. She is also a part-time DJ.Then there’s Ilaria Belloni, the partner of Kyle’s new captain with the Rossoneri, Davide Calabria, 28.The pair are considered to be one of Italy’s most glamorous couples and have attended Milan Fashion Week’s Giorgio Armani catwalk show together. And with a Master’s degree in marketing, communication and ­digital strategy, Ilaria, 28, is no ordinary Wag.The city’s footie partners are also no strangers to their own sex scandals.The wife of former Inter striker Mauro Icardi, 31, was rumoured to have been having an affair with his teammate Marcelo Brozovic, 32, which forced the Argentinian striker out of the club in 2019.READ MORE SUN STORIESWanda Icardi, 38, who was previously married to her husband’s international teammate Maxi Lopez, 49, sued an Italian gossip website for allegedly claiming the pair enjoyed a steamy affair.By the sounds of it, Kyle’s going to fit right in.Both Milan clubs — AC Milan and Inter — are top-tier sides, while the city is regarded as a Wags’ paradiseCredit: GettyThe two clubs share the San Siro — the iconic 80,000-seater stadiumCredit: Getty More