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      Meet the stunning F1 WAGs stealing the show in 2025 – from pro golfer to racing star & top model who dated Kardashian ex

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      AS the Formula 1 aces took to the grid this weekend, some fans were driven to distraction by the bevvy of beauties in the paddocks.The drivers’ glamorous wives and girlfriends  tried to keep their cool at the Australian Grand Prix as the mercury hit 32C and their partners burned rubber.At the Australian Grand Prix the F1 Wags stole the showCredit: GettyAnd with a host of rookies on the track alongside veterans Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, there were some unfamiliar faces on the sidelines, too.American Hannah St John, 21, was all smiles at Albert Park Circuit, in Melbourne, as she cheered on Red Bull Racing’s rising star Liam Lawson. She joined Scot Rebecca Donaldson, 28, the girlfriend of Carlos Sainz, who was making his Williams’ debut after four seasons at Ferrari.And the Wags also live life in the fast lane, with impressive careers of their own including as a professional golfer, model and racing driver.read more on formula oneHere, Thea Jacobs takes a look at the F1 stars’ stunning other halves, who are in pole position to steal the limelight from their men . . . Isabella Bernardini & Gabriel BortoletoYOUNG love is at the races this year, in the shape of Team Sauber’s newbie driver Gabriel, 20, and his girlfriend Isabella, who is just a year older.The couple are high school sweethearts, having got together when he was 16.Isabella Bernardini is currently thought to be studying computer science at Eindhoven in the NetherlandsCredit: GettyIsabella and Gabriel Bortoleto are high school sweetheartsCredit: AFPMeet F1 newbie Liam Lawson’s stunning girlfriend Hannah St. John, who is also a model and medical student Isabella is currently thought to be studying computer science at Eindhoven in the Netherlands.Most read in MotorsportThe couple aren’t afraid to show off their romance online, posing together for a cute New Year’s snap in which she perched on his knee, and sharing pictures of his Formula 2 races last year.Brazilian Isabella flew in to watch her beau make his F1 debut, and she looked stunning in a white mini-skirt and blouse combo.Sadly, Gabriel was not placed in his first race of the season – but he was surely a winner with Isabella.KELLY, 36, is in a relationship with Max , 27, the four-time Formula One World Drivers’ Champion.She is also racing royalty, as the daughter of three-time winner Nelson Piquet, 72.Kelly Piquet is the daughter of three-time winner Nelson PiquetCredit: GettyKelly is expecting her first child with Max VerstappenCredit: RexSince she started dating Red Bull racer Max in 2020, the Formula E social media manager has been a regular at the grand prix.But the heavily pregnant model missed out on this weekend’s race to attend an event at swanky restaurant Kaspia London, in Mayfair.It will be Kelly and Max’s first baby together. She also has a daughter with Russian driver Daniil Kvyat.Francisca Gomes & Pierre GaslyPORTUGUESE Francisca, 22, has been in a relationship with Alpine’s French driver Pierre Gasly since 2022.She posted a sweet black- and-white snap of the pair kissing after his first outing of the season and revealed they had relaxed with a plush Italian meal the night before.Francisca Gomes has built a career as a model and influencerCredit: GettyPierre Gasly has dubbed Francisca his ‘lucky charm’Credit: AFPBeing in the paddock isn’t a new experience for “Kika” either as her father is former F1 driver Goncalo Gomes, 49.And thanks to her mum being TV presenter Maria Cerqueira Gomes, Francisca isn’t easily fazed by the limelight.She has built a career as a model and influencer, which allows her to follow Pierre, 29, around the world for his races.Which is lucky for the driver as he dubbed her his “lucky charm.”Not too lucky though, as he only took 11th place on Sunday.Eliska Babickova & Andrea Kimi AntonelliELISKA and boyfriend Andrea, 18, clearly love life in the fast lane – as they’re both professional racing drivers.She is more likely to be seen trackside this year as Andrea has been promoted to the F1 circuit and snatched fourth place for Mercedes Down Under.Eliska Babickova was the first woman to be crowned ­Italian champion of the OK karting classCredit: AlamyEliska and Andrea Kimi Antonelli celebrated a year together in OctoberCredit: AFPEliksa – the first woman to be crowned ­Italian champion of the OK karting class – will understand the nerves and determination involved when it comes to racing.Outside the sport, she has a YouTube channel with her sisters, fellow drivers Petra and Tereza, where they document their lives.Eliska and Andrea celebrated a year together in October, and while he is off racing all over the world, she is finishing high school and plans to study economics at uni.Carmen Montero Mundt & George RussellAS fans of Netflix documentary Drive To Survive will know, George loves nothing more than showing off his stunning 26-year-old Spanish girlfriend Carmen.She appears to be a good omen too, as 27-year-old British Mercedes ace George took third place in the Aussie Grand Prix at the weekend.Carmen Montero Mundt recently returned to studies after a finance job in LondonCredit: InstagramCarmen and George Russell have been together since 2020Credit: AFPThe couple, who have been together since 2020, live in Monaco.Carmen recently returned to studies after a finance job in London, but her life is worlds away from her childhood in Spain.She said: “I always wanted to work in finance. “My family struggled financially during the global crisis, and that determined what I wanted to do from a very young age.”Hannah St John & Liam LawsonHER rookie boyfriend Liam may have endured a nightmare start to his Red Bull career, but Hannah looked like a seasoned Wag as she cheered him on from the sidelines.Wearing this black halter-neck dress to the race, she later changed into a striped blue two-piece to console the 23-year-old Kiwi driver after he swerved into the wall and crashed out in Melbourne.Hannah St John graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Biomedical SciencesCredit: Avalon.redHannah was there to support Liam Lawson as he began his Red Bull careerCredit: APHannah, 23, graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She also works as a model and influencer, with 40,000 followers and partnerships including Bvlgari.The beauty flew to New Zealand last year to meet Liam’s family and followed him around the world in his last season as a Formula 2 driver.She was also there to support him last year when he replaced Daniel   Ricciardo for the last six races of the F1 season.Alexandra Saint Mleux & Charles LeclercSHE has only been dating Ferrari ace Charles since 2023, but that hasn’t stopped Alexandra winning over legions of fans and becoming the second-most followed Formula 1 Wag on social media.The Italian influencer – who has a degree in Art History and a social media account dedicated to her favourite pieces of work – is often seen trackside cheering on her boyfriend, who placed eighth yesterday.Alexandra Saint Mleux is the second-most followed Formula 1 Wag on social mediaCredit: GettyCharles Leclerc has been dating Alexandra since 2023Credit: GettyShe has also started carving out a career as a model, and last month appeared in adverts for Hailey Bieber’s beauty brand.Alexandra, who has more than 1.6million followers on Instagram, often posts snaps of her pet dachshund, holidays and outfits, leading Tatler to brand her the “most stylish woman in F1” – quite the accolade.Rebecca Donaldson & Carlos SainzSCOTTISH beauty Rebecca did a few laps of the showbiz circuit before she shacked up with Williams driver Carlos in 2023.Now an established model, she started out in pageants and appeared on Britain’s Next Top Model on TV, and was linked to Kourtney Kardashian’s ex, Scott Disick.Rebecca Donaldson appeared on Britain’s Next Top Model on TVCredit: RexCarlos Sainz started dating Rebecca in 2023Credit: EPAThese days she is often spotted cheering on 30-year-old Carlos, who she has dated since 2023, and was seen gracing the paddock this weekend in a body-hugging grey dress.During her catwalk career, 28-year-old Rebecca has been a cover girl for Vogue and Marie Claire, and in October 2020 she launched her own activewear range, Muse.Sara Pagliaroli & Lance StrollVICTORIA’S Secret Angel model Sara and 26-year-old Aston Martin race ace Lance made their public debut as a couple at the 2021 premiere of 007 blockbuster No Time To Die.And with her bombshell good looks, the gorgeous 29-year-old Italian could pass for a Bond Girl herself.Sara Pagliaroli started modelling at 17Credit: InstagramLance Stroll and Sara made their public debut as a couple at the 2021 premiere of No Time To DieCredit: AFPSara started modelling at 17 and has worked with brands including Replay Jeans and Adria Beachwear.In 2020 she launched her own jewellery brand called Blue Lemon Jewels, and she is currently the face of clothing brand Yamamay.Lily Muni He & Alexander AlbonLILY, 25, might be known to some as the girlfriend of F1 driver Alexander, 28, but she is a sports star in her own right.The stunning brunette is a professional golfer who has been playing since the age of five and currently takes part in the US-based LPGA Tour.Lily Muni He is a professional golfer who has been playing since the age of fiveCredit: GettyAlexander Albon and Lily had their first date on a golf course in 2019Credit: AFPLily wasn’t there to cheer on ­Alexander as he took fifth place in Oz, but she showed her ­support on Instagram.It was F1 that brought the pair together as they began their relationship after she watched Netflix series Drive To Survive. They had their first date on a golf course in 2019.While Lily travels the globe playing golf, she does find time to cheer on Alexander during races – such as at Silverstone in 2023, when she was spotted in the paddock.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlexander repays the favour and has been seen ­supporting her on the green, posting about it on his own social media.These two are well on their way to taking pole ­position as a true sporting power ­couple.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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      Premier League star faces High Court showdown over claims he owes an agent £650k in unpaid fees

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      A PREM star faces a High Court showdown over claims he owes an agent £650,000 in unpaid fees.Crystal Palace ace Daniel Muñoz is facing a legal battle over an intermediary involved in his £6.5m transfer to Selhurst Park.Crystal Palace full-back Daniel Muñoz, 28, is ­facing a legal battle over his £6.5million transfer to Selhurst ParkThe full-back, already a summer target of Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona, has been written to by lawyers.In paperwork seen by The Sun, the Colombian 28-year-old is accused of not paying an invoice sent by agent Ruben Caicedo.The agent insists he was promised 10% commission on the £6.5m deal which took Munoz to Palace from Belgian side Genk.Colombian Mr Caicedo says he tracked his countryman’s career and proved pivotal in bringing the player to England.Read more on footballHe could also claim a cut of a deal which is likely this summer when the much lauded player is set to leave Palace for a bigger club if his £25m release fee is met as expected.Palace have told Mr Caicedo that an agent’s fee was paid as part of the Munoz signing – but they were sent to another agent.Mr Caicedo, who has worked alongside some of the game’s biggest figureheads, including Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson, is understood to have paperwork and recordings to support his legal claim against Daniel Munoz.Munoz, who played for Aguilas Doradas and Atletico Nacional in Colombia before a 2020 switch to Belgium, is represented by former Aston Villa legend Juan Pablo Ángel.Most read in FootballBut a source close to proceedings told The Sun: “Ruben Caicedo was the individual responsible for getting Daniel to Crystal Palace.“Ruben initiated the negotiations, and he gave the player his partner’s number, and the process continued. It led to a positive outcome in January last year.“But neither Ruben or his partner have received the commission due to them.“Daniel has gone from being in touch with Ruben and incredibly grateful to not answering his phone or letters.“The player is now on notice he is facing legal action. Daniel is heading to the High Court in what is a very unlikely legal showdown involving a Premier League millionaire.”Munoz – who has scored three goals in 42 impressive appearances for the Eagles, earning him 36 Colombia caps – did not comment. Crystal Palace also chose not to provide a statement. More

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      Kika Gomes sizzles in striped bikini as she supports boyfriend Pierre Gasly at Aussie Grand Prix

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      MODEL Kika Gomes shows off her racy lines in a striped bikini — as she and F1 driver boyfriend Pierre Gasly find their love is still in the fast lane.Portuguese Kika, 22, and Frenchman Gasly, 29, who drives for Alpine, were together at the Aussie Grand Prix.Kika Gomes shows off her racy lines in a striped bikiniCredit: Capture Media AgencyKika, 22, and F1 driver Gasly, 29, were together at the Aussie Grand PrixCredit: GettyPierre qualified 9th for today’s race in Melbourne.Whatever the result, he’s already a winner.Kika has been dating F1 driver Pierre since last October.She grew up in the fast lane with racing driver dad Gonçalo and TV host mum Maria.Read more on Kika GomesKika, real name Francisca, has collaborated with several beachwear brands including Calzedonia and Natura Portugal.Her mum Maria is a top TV presenter and model, and dad Goncalo was a racing driver.Gasly, 27, drives for the Alpine team now co-owned by Trent Alexander-Arnold and Taylor Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce.He is considered as one of the sport’s biggest rising stars.Most read in MotorsportWatch Pierre Gasly’s F1 car burst into flames forcing Frenchman to leap out of fire ravaged Alpha Tauri More

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      Premier League stars among 530 footballers being treated for addiction to drugs, alcohol and gambling

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      PREMIER League stars are among 530 footballers being treated for addiction to drugs, alcohol and gambling and other mental health issues, figures reveal.Last season, 80 professional players sought therapy for problems with illicit substances such as cocaine and nitrous oxide, as well as sleeping pills and booze.Brentford Premier League star Christian Norgaard, pictured above, recently revealed he previously feared he was becoming addicted to sleeping tablets. He said: “It’s a topic that has been going under the radar.”Some have become addicted to using black market zopiclone tablets to help them sleep as part of their recovery from training.The stars received treatment from the Sporting Chance clinic, which works with the Professional Footballers’ Association.READ MORE ON ADDICTIONOf the 530 supported last season, 42 players got help for gambling addictions.But these latest PFA figures for 2023-24 are said to be just the tip of the iceberg as scores of top stars seek help privately.Officials are also increasingly worried about the prevalence of nicotine pouches, called snus — with one in five professional footballers admitting to using them.And on Friday, it emerged two unnamed players tested positive for a banned ­substance immediately after games in the Premier League and Football League last season, according to UK Anti-Doping.Most read in FootballA dealer, who has supplied sleeping tablets to stars in the Premier League, said: “The main reason some players rely on them is because of their sleeping patterns.“Some expect players to train twice a day and want them to sleep in the afternoon to recover. It’s hard when your body is wired.A Premier League star has become the first footballer to go into rehab for an addiction to nitrous oxide canisters”Other times they rely on them is when they have a big midweek game which kicks off at 8pm. They might not get home until the early hours.“I know a few players who have tried to wean themselves off them but it’s hard.“They go cold turkey and spend days suffering from acute tiredness — but also being unable to sleep.”Brentford Premier League star Christian Norgaard recently revealed he previously feared he was becoming addicted to sleeping tablets More

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      Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel reveals he’ll sing national anthem on one condition as he prepares to lead out England

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      NEW England boss Thomas Tuchel will sing the national anthem — but only after we win a few games.The new German manager revealed yesterday that he will not be belting out God Save The King when he takes charge for the first time at Wembley next week.Thomas Tuchel will sing England’s national anthem when he gets the Three Lions winningCredit: ReutersHarry Kane, Jordan Pickford and Harry Maguire sing the anthemCredit: The TimesTuchel revealed he was proud to receive the royal seal of approval from Prince WilliamCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceBut he promised he will join in with the players when they get a few wins under his leadership, and he has “earned the right”.His revelation comes after England’s then-interim manager Lee Carsley sparked controversy last year by refusing to sing the national anthem.Tuchel, 51, also revealed he was proud to receive the royal seal of approval from Prince William, who told The Sun he is the “best manager for the job” and could even win us the World Cup.As he unveiled his first England squad yesterday, Tuchel joked the heir to the throne had been “pushing hard” for him to include players from his beloved Aston Villa.Read More on SportFA patron William and Tuchel have met twice since the former Chelsea and PSG boss took on the England job, including at Windsor Castle last month.But they did not discuss the national anthem. Tuchel said yes­terday: “I didn’t tell him at this point. “It didn’t come up. Most read in Football“But I made my decision.“I think first of all, you have a very powerful, emotional and meaningful national anthem, and I could not be more proud to be on the sideline and be in charge of the English national team.Dan Burn’s gone from pushing trolleys at Asda to potential England glory – he fully deserves his call-up“It means everything. “It means a lot to me, I can assure you. “But I can feel because it’s that meaningful and it’s that emotional and it’s so powerful the national anthem, that I have to earn my right to sing it.“I feel that it’s not just a given. “You cannot just sing it. “That’s why I decided that I will not sing it in my first matches.”Tuchel will therefore be keeping silent when it is played at a sold-out Wembley Stadium before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Albania on Friday night, and Latvia next Monday.But he said: “I will earn it with results, with building a group, with doing my job properly and by creating a feeling where maybe even you guys say at some point, ‘Now it’s time you sing it, it feels like you proper earn it and you’re a proper English guy now’!“Maybe I have to dive more into the culture and earn my right from you, from the players, from the supporters, so everyone feels like, ‘He should sing it now, he’s one of our own, he’s the English manager, he should sing it’.”Speaking exclusively to The Sun this week, William said the former Bayern Munich manager is the “best person for the job” and winning the World Cup next summer is “definitely possible”.Opening up about their meetings, Tuchel said yesterday he was honoured to get the prince’s backing, adding: “It makes me very proud.”Asked if William’s prediction that a German could end 60 years of hurt “adds pressure”, he said: “Yeah, of course. “The pressure comes with the job, and the pressure is a privilege to be in this role.”He went on: “I met His Royal Highness once during a match and we then had another meeting in Windsor Castle and it was just nothing but impressive the way he speaks and how emotional he supports Aston Villa and of course the national team.Tuchel said: ‘It is so powerful the national anthem that I have to earn my right to sing it’Credit: GettyJordan Henderson has been recalled to the England squadCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford has been called up for dutyCredit: Getty“It’s just so impressive. “It was so nice to speak to him about football. “He has a strong opinion.”Tuchel then joked: “He was pushing hard for the Aston Villa players, which was not needed because we admire them a lot and we admire a lot what is happening there in the club.“But it means a lot and it’s just something very, very special that comes with the role and it’s an honour and a privilege and comes with big responsibility.”Aston Villa stars Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers plus Marcus Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United, all made Tuchel’s first 26-man squad.Rashford’s recall was not the only surprise — as there was also a return for Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson, who last played for England in November 2023.Newcastle defender Dan Burn got his first call-up at the age of 32 while Arsenal starlet Miles Lewis-Skelly, 18, also features for the first time. But Manchester City’s Jack Grealish has been left out.William, FA president for 19 years before stepping down after Euro 2024, recalled consoling the players immediately after their heartbreaking loss to Spain at the final in Berlin. He told The Sun it was “the hardest changing room atmosphere I’ve ever walked into”.After boss Gareth Southgate quit, he hailed his “humility, compassion and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny”.Appointing a foreign replacement sparked criticism for the FA but William told The Sun this week Tuchel was the right candidate.He said: “I understand the debate around having an English manager but, to me, it should be the best person for the job — and Thomas is exactly the right person.Tuchel’s first England match is against Albania next FridayCredit: Reuters“He’s one of the top five managers in the world. “It would be amazing if he could win the World Cup — it’s definitely possible.”The prince also described his love for Aston Villa before watching them beat Club Brugge on Wednesday to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.He also revealed he goes undercover on online fan forums. And he was praised for his admission that he found the TV blackout on 3pm games on Saturdays “irritating” as he cannot always get to Villa Park.One fan on the Reddit AVFC forum said: “Truly the people’s prince.”Another added: “Nice bit of humility there from him especially as he can’t get to Villa Park easily.“I imagine his entourage is huge. “You know around him are many bodyguards and there’s a reason he’s always at the back.”Another joked: “I wonder what his Reddit handle is.” On fan forum Heroes And Villains, even non-royalists were delighted he was there to see Villa. One, Rob Bridge, said: “Good. Regardless of my preference for an elected head of state it is excellent PR for the club.”And Villa Tim added: “He loves the Villa. “Great to see it and him enjoying himself.”A third — called Brazilian Villain — referred to the club’s glory days when they won the 1982 European Cup. He quipped: “He was born in June 82. “Who else could he choose but the reigning European champions?”Another, Purple Trousers, joked: “I am Prince William.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe prince is planning to travel to France for Villa’s quarter-final first leg against PSG next month.But he is set to miss Tuchel’s first England match next week due to commitments in Estonia, where he will be supporting British troops on Nato’s western frontier.Jack Grealish has been left out of the Three Lions squadCredit: The Times More

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      Walking into England dressing room after Euros final defeat was so hard – but we CAN win World Cup, says Prince William

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      PRINCE William revealed one of his toughest tasks as FA ­President was consoling England’s crushed players shortly after the gut-wrenching defeat in the final of Euro 2024.The royal joined the deflated stars following the shattering 2-1 loss to Spain in Berlin and admitted: “That was the hardest changing room atmosphere I’ve ever had to walk into.After the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry KaneCredit: EPAWilliam and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winnerCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)Prince William and England manager Thomas TuchelCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace“They were really down. They realised they’d given it their all and they’d been on such a journey.“It felt like the culmination should have been a successful ­victory for them.”However, footie-mad Wills is still quietly hopeful for the future and feels the Three Lions will be “as close as we’ve ever been” to winning a World Cup in two years.The Prince had taken on the FA presidency 18 years before the shattering defeat against Spain which he shared with son Prince George, then ten, who sat by his side.READ MORE ON PRINCE WILLIAMHe famously marked his appointment by turning up at England training and asking beanpole striker Peter Crouch to perform his robot goal celebration for him. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived.Prince WilliamEngland sadly failed to get past the quarter-finals that summer and, ever since, William has been as frustrated as any other England supporter at their continuing inability to lift a trophy.His hopes had been high in the Euro 2020 decider at Wembley, but Italy won that on penalties.“Do you know, I thought it was our time at the first final,” he said.Most read in FootballThat result made last year’s further disappointment doubly difficult to take, he said — as was evident from the images of him and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winner and shattered English dreams.William said: “To go and see it again and be so close when the guys had really given it their all was very difficult.”Prince William picks Messi vs Ronaldo winner and gives David Beckham a huge boost | Big Shot BattleAfter the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham as well as long-term manager Gareth Southgate.Like Southgate, he too stepped down after that final, but he has since taken on the role of FA patron instead of president and is as big an England fan as ever.The appointment of the German Thomas Tuchel as manager attracted criticism from those who felt the job should have gone to an Englishman.And William himself was involved in the development of the FA’s national training centre at St George’s Park, which was supposed to provide a pathway for English coaches.In fact, he opened the facility, which is just outside Burton-on-Trent, Staffs, back in 2012.He well understands that concern about an English coach being denied the top job this time round but is enthusiastic about what former Chelsea boss Tuchel can bring to the table.And he is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World Cup.He said: “I’m still linked to the FA but as a patron rather than president now. However, I loved my time as president.Prince William with former England manager Gareth SouthgateCredit: GettyWilliam is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World CupCredit: Dan Charity“I learned an awful lot about the football world and the England set-up. I was trying to do my bit to work out how to bring the best minds in so that England could win a World Cup.“We’re now as close as we’ve ever been, I really do feel that. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us.”He went on: “The FA is in quite a stable place which it hasn’t always been in the past when I was involved when I was younger.“It’s all coming together nicely. We just need the results on the pitch to go our way. We are going to see how Thomas sets up and who he picks.”He’s only got two years so it’s a short turnaround but I am quietly confident we are in a good position.”’Right person for job’Tuchel is due to announce his first England squad today. William was informed about the decision to hire him before it became public knowledge and he has had no reason to doubt it was the right move.The dad of three went on: “Having met him, I’m definitely happy about that decision.“I think he will bring serious detail and experience and wisdom to the role. Gareth Southgate was an incredible manager who did brilliantly and really laid the foundations for success.“He was very unlucky that he just didn’t quite manage to get us over the line. He gave it his all.“Of course I was sad to see him leave. He’s a lovely guy who did an incredible job.“He was the manager for nearly nine years, which is a long time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But, as regards finding his successor, I’m excited by what Thomas might bring.“I think he is exactly the right person for the job.”WILLING ENGLAND ONPRINCE William’s tenure as FA President has been marked by a huge upturn in form.May 2006: He takes over from uncle Prince Andrew.June 2006: He cheers on England and meets fans at the World Cup in Germany.2010: He and Prince Harry visit the England camp in South Africa.2012-2014: The future King stays home for the disappointing Euro 2012 and the dismal 2014 World Cup in Brazil.2016: Wills says the FA’s governance structure needs reform, at a lunch commemorating his ten-year anniversary as president.2018: The Prince does not attend the World Cup in Russia but he tweeted after the 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarter finals: “You wanted to make history England and you are doing just that.”2021: The president continues his hands-on approach to the Three Lions during the Covid-delayed Euro 2020.He gave a dressing room speech after England’s final defeat to Italy, which he watched alongside wife Kate and son George at Wembley.2022: Wills and Kate cheer the Lionesses on to England’s first trophy since 1966 at the Euro 2022 final at Wembley.2024: He roars England to victory over Switzerland at Euro 2024 — months after the double cancer diagnosis shock of Kate and dad Charles. He steps down after loss in final. More

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      Prince William reveals superstitious match day rituals when watching Villa & how he lurks on fan forums with random name

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      PRINCE William has spoken of falling in love with Aston Villa after being taken to a match by friends as a boy.The heir, 42, said he was gripped by the “sense of belonging” and the passion of his fellow football fans.Prince William has revealed his ‘passion’ for Aston Villa and shares his superstitions, including moving the kids around during gamesCredit: Dan CharityGeorge, Charlotte and Louis better not get comfortable if their dad is watching Aston Villa losingCredit: GettyPrince William enjoys a matchday at Villa Park – where he enjoys mixing with the other fansCredit: GettyWills also revealed he visits fan forums anonymously online — and moves his kids around when watching at home to bring the team luck.We sat down with the heir to the throne for a chat at Villa’s training ground on the eve of their Champions League win over Club Brugge.They now have a glamour tie with PSG in the last eight to look forward to — and their fans can maybe dream of the glory days when they lifted the European Cup.Wills said: “Yep they won it, 1982, the year I was born. There’s a nice connection with them straight away.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut how did he become a Villa fan, seeing as he had no obvious connection with the Midlands?William, now 42, concedes it was relatively late when he got the bug but he was gripped by the camaraderie, and his interest intensified when Villa got relegated in 2016.He said: “There were a few moments that happened. I had some family friends who took me to my first Villa game when I was younger because they are big Villa fans.“It was against Bolton and I sat in the stands with my Villa beanie hat on and I remember Paul Merson was playing for Villa at the time. With the camaraderie among the fans and the chanting and the singing, I just felt like I belonged there.Most read in Football“I kept an eye on Villa from then on but didn’t get too involved initially. But Villa being relegated to the Championship in 2016 got me even more interested, strangely.“A few years earlier, we’d finished sixth under Martin O’Neill and now we weren’t even in the Premier League. Prince William on recreating Ronaldo’s goal celebration in his garden as he builds ‘Perfect Footballer'”I’m not certain why I became much more interested then but it might have been due to the rise of the smartphone.“I’d grown up looking at Ceefax on the television or the back pages of newspapers and if you didn’t have those to hand you were a bit out of the loop.“But now you can get so much data and follow how your team is doing all the time and there’s so much more discussion and debate. That’s how my passion really increased.“I’m incredibly proud of the club and the journey it’s been on. It’s hard to put into words and a lot of Villa fans are still pinching themselves a bit that we’re here and we’ve done this.”’The atmosphere was electric’William poured praise on manager Unai Emery, and said he can learn from his exceptional eye for detail and man-management skills. “He went on: “Last season was very tense and we were wondering if we’d get over the line to get in the Champions League and when we did it was a big deal.“When I came up here to see the team, the atmosphere was electric.“We are all so proud and pleased with what they’ve done and you can see the difference with a manager like Unai, who brings people together and works hard on the little details. “He’s a really good man-manager with a great support staff around him and the players enjoy playing for him.I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me.Prince William“There have been lots of good managers in Villa’s time but I’d say Unai is a step up on some of them in terms of his formations, and the length of detail he goes into with his videos. “He spends hours debriefing the previous match to get them ready for the next one.“He lives, eats, breathes and sleeps football and it gives you a bit of a lesson in life that if you really want to do something right, you’ve got to throw everything at it and give your time. “Unai is that dedicated, a completely obsessed man of football and that rubs off on the players.“If you’re doing what you love and speaking so well about how you love it then they’ll follow you. It’s quite a good leadership point.”William has often taken son George to games but is not forcing his eldest, or their siblings Charlotte or Louis, into supporting Villa.He said: “I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me. I’m trying to spread the love a little bit.“They do have Villa shirts, and ask to come to games with me, but they have other shirts as well. There’s been a bit of courting going on by other managers too.”William also revealed his irritation over the TV blackout, which bans Premier League games from being broadcast in England at 3pm on a Saturday.He said: “Getting up to Villa Park isn’t the easiest thing for me but I like to watch as many games as I possibly can either by being there or on TV. “I’ve tried to really make an effort to get there for all the Champions League games because it feels like that’s something you’ve got to make the most of when you’re in it. “The biggest thing at home is trying to find it on TV sometimes because obviously you’ve got the Saturday 3pm blackout which is irritating.”Illegal firestickHe puts the shutters up when it is suggested he could use an illegal firestick. He laughs: “Haha, no comment on that one. I’m a paid-up member of Villa TV though so I keep up to date through that. “But it’s really annoying that we still can’t watch our own team’s Premier League match in this country but you can go abroad and watch any game any time.”So when he watches Villa on TV, does he get into the matchday spirit as if he was in the ground?I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa. It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family.Prince WilliamHe replied: “If I’m home alone with the children, I probably don’t have the pre-match pint but I do have a bit of superstition about where I sit when I’m watching them. “If we’re not doing very well, I start moving round the house quite quickly and I put the children in different positions hoping that’s going to change our luck.” William recently popped into a Birmingham Wetherspoons to join Villa fans for a beer before a game at Everton.He said: “I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa.“It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family. This club does an awful lot — and I know lots of clubs do it too — but I particularly feel it with Villa in my life that I’m very included.“The morals and the vision and the general atmosphere and the culture of the club really matters.“For me, it’s always been very welcoming, very diverse, and all-encompassing.” He unhesitatingly names Irish stalwart defender of the 90s, Paul McGrath, as the greatest Villa player ever, while he also has a particular soft spot for Norwegian striker John Carew.He said: “Yeah it has to be McGrath, doesn’t it? I really liked Carew as well, he was a serious all-round player. There’s been quite a few good ones, but they are two who I would pick out.”He also loves to chip in with his opinions on fans’ internet forums, posting anonymously of course.He revealed: “I like going on the forums, I can be on there for ages. I listen to what other fans have to say and give them my opinions. I get quite into it, definitely. It’s important to have that debate.”However, he added: “Having said that, while I may be an armchair fan, I wouldn’t presume to tell Unai if he’s doing anything wrong.“I’m fascinated by what Unai is doing and how he tweaks his system and what he sees. “I’d love to know more about how he goes about managing the team better and how do you see those little details which no one else does.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Wills chats with Villa fave Morgan RogersCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe prince is full of praise for Villa’s Spanish manager Unai EmeryCredit: ReutersWills sits down for an exclusive chat with The Sun’s head of sport, Shaun CustisCredit: Dan Charity More

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      Plied with drugs dissolved in booze and hosed down like an animal – inside tragic Maradona’s House of Horror court case

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      ON the football pitch, Diego Maradona was revered as a god, but in his final days the legendary footballer is alleged to have been treated more like an animal.This week Argentina has been gripped by the start of a five-month trial in which seven of the people tasked with caring for the man who led the country to the 1986 World Cup are accused of his homicide with possible intent.Seven people tasked with caring for Diego Maradona are accused of his homicide with possible intent, the legend in coaching role in 2019Credit: GettyMaradona’s cheat goal against England in the quarter-final of 1986 World Cup in MexicoCredit: GettyFans crowd the hearse as Maradona’s body is taken to the cemetery in 2020Credit: AFPDoctor Leopoldo Luque, centre, wrote ‘the fat man’s going to end up kicking the bucket’ in vile WhatsApp messagesCredit: AFPMaradona died aged 60 from heart disease at his rented home in Tigre, near Buenos Aires, on November 25, 2020, two weeks after undergoing brain surgery.The prosecution claims that the team paid to look after him were criminally negligent.In heated scenes, Maradona’s former lover, Veronica Ojeda, was heard shouting “daughter of a bitch” at one of the accused as the hearing got under way on Tuesday.Outside the court in San Isidro, north of Argentina’s capital, a fan held up a placard with the message “Justice for D10S” — a nickname mixing Maradona’s shirt number and the Spanish word for God.READ MORE ON MARADONA‘Kicking the bucket’Others had tears in their eyes as they chanted his name.There have been claims that Maradona drank beer in the morning and was given sleeping pills dissolved in his booze at night while he was under the accused’s medical care.WhatsApp messages were uncovered in which his neurologist, Leopoldo Luque, wrote “the fat man’s going to end up kicking the bucket”.And it is alleged Maradona was washed down with a hosepipe rather than being helped to the shower.Most read in FootballThe former Barcelona and Napoli player has been adored in the South American nation since his moments of individual brilliance — and his infamous handball “hand of God goal” against England — saw them lift the World Cup in Mexico in 1986.Considerable amounts of his fortune, once estimated at £75million, were blown on addictions to alcohol and cocaine, which contributed to his terrible state of health.Diego Maradona’s daughter fights back tears as she says family live in fear of mafia ahead of trial into his death At the time of his death his heart weighed 503 grams, which was almost double what it should have been.But the prosecution case is that with the right medical care, Maradona would have survived.Chief prosecutor Patricio Ferrari told the court: “You will see during this trial what reckless home care is — reckless, deficient, without precedent, without any type of control during the period that ended with Diego’s death. “In that house of horror where Diego Maradona died, no one did what they had to do.”The problems began for Maradona when he was feted in the southern Italian city of Naples for twice taking their once-lowly side to historic league titles in 1987 and 1990.The Mafia, dominant in the region, kept him supplied with drugs and prostitutes, yet he still somehow managed to play at the top level.Two years before his death, the star told British documentary maker Asif Kapadia of his time there: “Sunday to Wednesday I was partying on cocaine. I would come home high on drugs.”In that house of horror where Diego Maradona died no one did what they had to doChief prosecutor Patricio Ferrari In 1991, traces of cocaine were found in Maradona’s urine sample and a couple of weeks later 1.5g of the same drug was found by police at his flat in Buenos Aires.Maradona’s ex, Veronica Ojeda, demands justice outside trialCredit: GettyA fan holds up a placard with the message ‘Justice for D10S’ — a nickname mixing Maradona’s shirt number and the Spanish word for GodCredit: AFPMaradona’s daughters Dalma and Gianinna arrive for trialCredit: GettyLater, he was sent home from the 1994 World Cup in the United States after testing positive for a stimulant called ephedrine.His attempts to get clean were always short-lived, with hangers-on often willing to get him whatever substances he desired.He also had a voracious appetite for alcohol, food and young women.In 2005, the 5ft 5in Maradona weighed nearly 20st and underwent a gastric band operation.Emergency surgeryThe star had eight children by various mothers that are known of, but since his death at least three other people have come forward claiming to be his offspring.It was not until 2007 that he recognised Diego Jnr as his son. He had been born in 1986 to a mistress.There were a number of health scares over the years, including being treated by doctors at half-time when he was watching Argentina play at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.The most serious was on November 3, 2020, when he underwent emergency surgery at La Plata hospital in Buenos Aires for a blood clot on his brain.His personal doctor, neurosurgeon Luque, performed what appeared to be a successful operation.But there was a question over whether the patient would be better off staying in hospital, where there would be swift access to emergency care, or if he should instead recover in a home setting.Luque, who is one of the seven accused, agreed to take Maradona to the legend’s rented residence in Tigre on November 11.If he got up at 9am and asked for beer he was given itGriselda Morel, an educational psychologist Prosecutor Ferrari told the court: “Clearly, the victim was not in full use of his mental faculties and even less could decide on his own about his health.”He entered that place for a clinical rehabilitation and home medical care that we can say without any doubt was calamitous.”The prosecution alleges that there was no defibrillator on hand to help restart Maradona’s heart if he went into a cardiac arrest and that the medical team did not carry out the necessary checks.Prior to the start of the trial, Griselda Morel, an educational psychologist who worked with Maradona’s eight-year-old son and visited his home, claimed that the sick star was given alcohol.She alleged: “If he got up at 9am and asked for beer he was given it.“One of his custodians crushed tablets he was taking and put them in his beer so he didn’t cause a fuss at night.” Griselda said that Maradona was so confused he would speak on an imaginary phone.The other six accused are psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, addiction specialist Carlos Diaz, doctor Nancy Forlini, nursing co-ordinator Mariano Perroni, nurse Ricardo Almiron and clinical physician Pedro Pablo Di Spagna.Heart in formaldehydeAnother nurse, Gisela Dahiana Madrid, has asked to be tried separately.Gisela’s lawyer, Rodolfo Baque, has claimed that when the nurse warned that Maradona’s heartbeat reached a high 115 beats per minute in the days before his death, “nothing” was done about it.When the former footballer was found unconscious at around 12.30 in the afternoon on November 25, 2020, the medical team spent 45 minutes trying to revive him. But experts believe he died between 4am and 6am, which suggests no one checked on the patient for at least six and a half hours.Post-mortem blood and urine tests revealed Maradona had been given a cocktail of prescription drugs including Quetiapine, Venlafaxine and Levetiracetam which are used to treat depression, panic attacks and epilepsy among other conditions.Fernando Burlando, the lawyer representing Maradona’s daughters Dalma and Gianinna, said outside court that the player had been treated like an animal and went as far as to call it “murder.”The accused are on trial for homicide with possible intent, which could result in 25-year prison sentences. They all deny the charges.Luque said: “The death occurred unexpectedly, suddenly, during sleeping hours, without offering us any time.”The complex medical trial will last until July and see around 100 witnesses give evidence.The final verdict will be delivered by three judges.One of the key pieces of evidence will be Maradona’s heart, which has been kept in formaldehyde at a police laboratory ever since his death.One of the key pieces of evidence will be Maradona’s heart, which has been kept in formaldehyde at a police laboratory.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere have been claims that fans had plotted to steal the organ. And during the 2022 World Cup, Argentinian fans campaigned to have the heart flown to host nation Qatar along with the country’s football team.Why the heart finally failed Maradona — a lion on the football pitch — is sure to inspire a passionate response from devoted fans whatever the court decides.Model of Maradona in a model house shown to courtCredit: Getty More