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Cat and Patrick have just announced their split

Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty have just announced they have split after 12 years of marriage.

In a shock statement, the This Morning presenter, who shares two young sons with Patrick, announced the end of their relationship.

While the pair didn’t give a reason, they stated there is “no other party involved”. They also stated they will not comment on the matter again.

The news may have been a shock to a lot of fans, but there have been some hints that cracks were showing in their marriage over the past few months. Here, ED! takes a look at the signs their marriage was on the rocks.

Cat and Patrick have shockingly split (Credit: Cover Images)

1. Cat missed her mother-in-law’s funeral

Back in March, Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty were hit with split rumours when she missed his mum’s funeral.

Patrick’s mother was laid to rest in his home village. And while there were a lot of attendees there, his wife was noticeably absent. Instead, she continued her This Morning presenting duties.

However, a spokesperson for Cat told MailOnline that she missed the funeral in order to be there for their sons.

The source said: “Cat remained at home to be there for her two young children before and after school on this very sad day.”

Patrick has admitted to ‘struggles’ (Credit: ITV)

2. Patrick has spoken about struggles

Over the years Patrick has admitted to having struggles in their marriage. And this was especially the case in recent years due to their work schedules.

Patrick regularly commutes from London to Dublin for work, and the scheduling can cause some tension for the pair.

Speaking to The Times last year, Patrick admitted sometimes things got “tricky”.

He said: “There was a moment after Christmas that was tricky. She had to fly to Atlanta for seven weeks. There was a wee bit of a juggle there.”

Patrick added that they relied on having “the start of the week and the weekends together” because of their filming schedules.

Cat hasn’t posted about Patrick in a while (Credit: ITV)

3. Cat left him out of her Father’s Day post

Another notable mention is that Cat didn’t publicly wish Patrick a Happy Father’s Day on social media this year.

While that alone is by no means a sure indication that the pair were struggling – it definitely seemed odd.

Cat didn’t skip Father’s Day altogether, though. Instead of publicly showing love for her husband on her Instagram feed, she posted a tribute to her own father.

There appear to have been some cracks in their relationship (Credit: Cover Images / INFphoto.com)

4. Patrick missing from Cat’s Instagram

It’s not just the Father’s Day absence for Patrick on Cat’s Instagram. But she hasn’t really got any acknowledgement of him on her personal feed from this year at all.

Of course it could be that the former couple were trying to keep their relationship private. But with news of the Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty split, perhaps there was another reason.

Patrick doesn’t post on his own Instagram that often. But the last time he publicly gushed about his ex was back in February 2024.

He praised Cat for getting up “every day with a smile” on her face. The post celebrated Cat’s journey on This Morning.

Cat and Ben appeared on Gogglebox together (Credit: ITV)

5. Cat Deeley featured on Celebrity Gogglebox – without Patrick Kielty

Most recently, Cat was announced as a face for Celebrity Gogglebox. And it was even filmed in her and Patrick’s home – which they have been renovating for a while now.

While most celebs opt to do the show with family members or partners, Cat didn’t appear alongside Patrick. Instead she made an appearance with her This Morning co-star Ben Shephard.

6. Cat Deeley didn’t want to renew her vows to Patrick Kielty before split

Earlier this year, according to Hello Magazine, Cat told Closer that she didn’t have any desire to renew her vows. And, in actual fact, she didn’t even plan her actual wedding, but instead left everything to Patrick.

She said: “I barely even did my own wedding. Patrick went and tried the food and did all that. I never even saw the place where I got married before the wedding. That’s how uninvolved I was.”

Cat went on to admit that she didn’t “care” about it but just wanted everyone else to have fun.

She explained: “I’m quite lucky I get to dress up and have really special occasions all the time, so to me that wasn’t the most exciting thing to happen.”

7. Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty slept in separate bedrooms before split

Back in 2024, Cat Deeley explained on This Morning that she and ex-husband Patrick Kielty slept in different bedrooms before their split.

She said: “It’s one of those things. Because of our schedule here on This Morning, from Monday to Thursday I sleep in the guest bedroom. And the rest of the time I’m back, As otherwise I get up at 5am and I want to fall asleep earlier.”

It looked as though she’d finally found her happy ever after

This Morning presenter Cat Deeley announced her split from husband Patrick Kielty today. They were married since September 2012, after tying the knot in Rome following a whirlwind nine-month romance.

The couple had previously met when This Morning host Cat was dating her first high-profile boyfriend, PR guru Mark Whelan. But it wasn’t till after they split, and Cat dated two more high-profile men, that Cat and Pat finally became more than just friends.

Here, as her private life comes crashing down, ED! takes a look inside her rocky love life – from her “rather handsome” PR beau to father of her two kids, Patrick…

Cat Deeley announced her marriage split today in a joint statement (Credit: Splash News)

Cat Deeley’s romance history: Boyfriend Mark Whelan – 2001 to 2006

The TV presenter started dating older man Mark Whelan in 2001, and their union lasted for five years.

Speaking to Glamour at the time, Cat confessed he was “a PR guru, and rather handsome”. She also shared that “used to be a bad boy, but these days is a lot more mellow”. “He’s 10 years older than me and very smart and he’s introduced me to things that weren’t in my realm,” she said at the time.

You’re either right for each other or you’re not, and we weren’t, simple as that.

Fast-forward five years and the pair announced their split. Cat admitted it was instigated by Mark, but backed his decision, calling it “absolutely the right one”.

In an interview, she said: “You’re either right for each other or you’re not, and we weren’t, simple as that. But we’re lucky in that we’re still friends and I think he’s incredibly pleased for me now.”

Cat flew Stateside following the split, making a new life in Los Angeles as the host of So You Think You Can Dance?. She added: “Nothing gets you to mend your heart quicker than throwing yourself into work. When I came out here, I couldn’t dwell on the break-up because I had too many practical things to sort out – such as how do I set up a bank account, where’s the nearest supermarket and how do I go about taking my driving test?”

Cat dated actor Jack Huston for almost two years (Credit: Splash News)

Actor beau Jack Huston – 2008 to 2010

After making a name for herself across the pond, Cat started to date Jack Huston, who appeared in the third Twilight film Eclipse.

They made quite the rock star couple during numerous red carpet appearances, and she was coy when speaking about him.

“I have been dating somebody for a few months, but it’s all really new, so I don’t want to add too much – I honestly don’t know how it will turn out,” she said at the time. Cat admitted they weren’t living together and said: “Oh God no – it’s too soon for that!”

But she did admit: “He’s lovely, charismatic and super-talented and he makes me laugh. Even if there wasn’t anything romantic going on, I’d still like him to be in my life.”

However, the pair ended up splitting after almost two years together. And Cat’s rep confirmed it was her decision to go their separate ways so she could focus on “work commitments”.

A year after the split in an interview with Red, Cat revealed that she was happy being single. She also told how a relationship with an unnamed man left her feeling like a “shell” of her former self.

“I’m really happy being single at the moment. You are so much better off on your own than with the wrong person. I’d say to any woman, get out of the bad relationship that’s turning you into a shell of your former self. Learn from it, and get out.

“Then wait: enjoy yourself and your friends because, when what you want comes along, you’ll spot it.”

Michael McMillan – June 2011 to October 2011

Cat’s next relationship was a brief one, with the star reportedly enjoying a four-month fling with True Blood actor Michael McMillian.

The presenter is said to have told pals he was “the one”. But, revealing it was all over, a source told the Daily Mail: “It’s all over. Cat’s disappointed but moving on with her life. She is happy in all aspects of her life apart from her lack of a stable relationship.”

Presenter Cat Deeley married husband Patrick Kielty back in 2012 and they have two boys (Credit: Splash News)

Cat Deeley and husband Patrick Kielty – October 2011 to July 2025 split

Cat wasn’t lacking that stable relationship for long, as Patrick Kielty soon waltzed back into her life.

The pair first met in 2002 while working on Fame Academy. But, despite becoming firm friends, romance didn’t blossom for also 10 years when they embarked on a whirlwind romance, tying the knot after just nine months of dating.

Patrick previously said during an interview on This Morning: “If we had got together at the start, we could have got on one another’s nerves. All things came at the right time.”

When Cat was with Mark Whelan, Patrick admitted that there was a “wee vibe there”. However, he has insisted “nothing went on”.

Instead, Cat has told how he wooed her by catching a flight from Ireland to the States to surprise Cat for her birthday.

She told The Late Late Show’s Ryan Tubridy in 2020: “There was a night where it was the day before my birthday – I can’t even remember what birthday it was now! It was 30-something – he called me and he spoke to me on the phone.

I followed my heart all the way to Los Angeles to surprise my now-wife for lunch. 12 years and two kids later, I think it worked out.

“He said: ‘Oh, what are you doing for your birthday? I’m just ringing to say happy birthday.’ I said: ‘Oh, we’re going to the Beverly Hills Hotel. We’re just going to have a late brunch. It’s going to be very civilised. It’s a shame you’re not here, otherwise, you could come.’”

At the time, Patrick was in a pub in County Down, but dashed to the airport to catch a 7am flight to LA for the next day. At her brunch, Cat confessed she nearly fell off her chair when Patrick breezed in, confessing this was the moment she “slightly fell in love with him”.

He has said: “I am an absolute born romantic. If I’d a quid for every rom-com I’ve cried at… I followed my heart all the way to Los Angeles to surprise my now-wife for lunch. 12 years and two kids later, I think it worked out.”

Patrick shares two sons with Cat (Credit: ITV)

Wedding bells for Cat Deeley as she married husband Patrick

Cat Deeley and husband Patrick Kielty married in September 2012 after just nine months of dating. They said their “I dos” at St Isidore’s College in Rome. But Cat was so uninterested in wedding details that she let Patrick take over the planning of their very “chilled-out ceremony”.

Speaking to Closer after the wedding, she said: “Patrick went and tried the food and did all that. I never even saw the place where I got married before I got married, that’s how uninvolved I was.”

After their wedding, the couple welcomed sons, Milo, nine, and James, seven.

Before they had James, Cat had told the Mirror: “I would love some more. But I have got to get on with it if I do. When you go for your check-ups they call you a ‘geriatric mum’. That is the terminology they use, I swear.”

Cat and Pat announce their split

Earlier today (July 29), the couple sent shockwaves through showbiz circles when they announced their split.

Announcing the news in a statement to PA, Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty said in a joint statement: “We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved.

“We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected.

“There will be no further comment.”

As of this writing, neither have posted a statement on social media.

Edith Bowman shut down rumours she was anything more than friends with Cat (Credit: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Edith Bowman – ‘platonic love’

Being in the public eye, Cat has been subject to some untrue rumour about her love life over the years.

And good friend Edith Bowman has previously shut down claims she and Cat enjoyed a romantic relationship together. The rumours began when they were pictured leaving the Met Bar in each other’s arms.

“Cat Deeley and I, who are still really good mates, we started at MTV at the same time and we’d spent so much time just hanging out and going out,” Edith said of Cat.

Speaking on Angela Scanlon’s Thanks a Million podcast, she said: “We were really good mates, and we are really good mates still. And it was like: ‘Oh, Cat and Edith are in a lesbian relationship.’

“Photographs of us kind of holding each other up, coming out of the Met Bar or whatever was because we were drunk. It wasn’t because we were like, licking each other’s faces off!

“We are in love, but as friends kind of thing, It’s so bizarre,” she added.

Edith started dating Editors frontman, Tom Smith, in 2005, with the two tying the knot in 2013. They share two sons together.

The pair famously fell in love on the original show

Katie Price and ex-husband Peter Andre could be set for an awkward reunion, as both stars have been tipped to return for I’m A Celebrity All Stars in South Africa.

The All Stars spin-off is usually pre-recorded in South Africa and sees numerous previous contestants battle it out to be the ultimate champion of champions. And this year is no different, with filming expected to begin in the autumn.

While the official line-up hasn’t been revealed yet, the bookies from Betideas.com have exclusively told Entertainment Daily who they think has the best chance of making an appearance. And things could get awkward for some very famous exes…

Peter and Katie fell in love in the jungle in 2004 (Credit: Nick Sadler/startraksphoto.com / Cover Images)

Katie Price and Peter Andre set to reunite on I’m A Celebrity All Stars?

Way back in 2004, I’m A Celebrity… became known for the love story of Katie Price and Peter Andre.

Millions tuned in every night to see the blossoming relationship, which continued when they left the jungle. The pair went on to get married in 2005, and welcome two children together – Princess and Junior.

However, their jungle romance didn’t last and ended in divorce in 2009. And since then, things have turned quite bitter between them, with the pair having been embroiled in a lengthy feud.

If both signed up, it would be one of the most talked-about TV reunions in years.

But what’s the likelihood of their reunion? Shane Orton, spokesperson for Betideas.com told us: “There is the potential return of Katie Price (Evens) and Peter Andre (5/4).

“Katie’s 2004 jungle appearance famously led to their relationship. If both signed up, it would be one of the most talked-about TV reunions in years.”

Obviously we don’t know if Katie and Peter would ever actually agree to do I’m A Celebrity All Stars together. But it would make for some pretty iconic scenes – and Ant and Dec would have a lot of material for their running jokes!

Could Katie make another appearance? (Credit: YouTube)

Who else is in the running?

But they aren’t the only big names that could make a reappearance on I’m A Celebrity All Stars. Most likely for a comeback is former Emmerdale star Adam Thomas, who walked away in third place in 2016. He’s currently sitting at 1/4 odds, and is even reportedly in “advanced talks”.

Not far behind him is former queen of the jungle Scarlett Moffatt (4/6) and Harry Redknapp (8/11).

Another controversial figure who may be lining up a return is Rebekah Vardy (10/11). Following Coleen Rooney’s success last year, Rebekah could be headed back in to tell her side of the story.

Shane told us: “Rebekah Vardy is still closely linked to the Wagatha Christie headlines and made an impact in 2017. She wouldn’t go unnoticed in an All Stars camp.”

Reports have also suggested that the iconic Gemma Collins could be headed for All Stars. And bookies have her sitting at 7/2 chance.

According to Shane, another one who looks “likely” is Joey Essex (6/4). He “lit up the jungle” in 2013, and if he returned, he would bring “plenty of heart to the camp”.

Peter has been speculated to go back on I’m A Celeb (Credit: YouTube)

Least likely to appear on All Stars

Right at the bottom of the list however is Gino D’Acampo (16/1). He caused quite a stir during his time on the show. And following his recent scandal which caused ITV to axe him, an appearance seems unlikely.

With filming expected to take place soon, we should be getting more confirmation on which stars are jetting out to South Africa to film I’m A Celebrity All Stars soon!

It happened outside Buckingham Palace, and live on the BBC

Chloe Kelly forced BBC presenter Alex Scott to issue an immediate apology today (July 29) after she swore outside Buckingham Palace at the victory parade held to celebrate the Lionesses‘ Euro 2025 win.

More than 10,000 people lined The Mall to welcome the ladies and their trophy home from Switzerland.

Viewers at home also watched as the team made their way down The Mall on an open-top bus. They then headed to the stage, set up in front of Buckingham Palace. Alex Scott was then on hand to interview some of the players, before Heather Small performed live.

However, the air was quickly turned blue at the celebrations by that potty-mouthed, penalty-scoring champion Chloe Kelly…

The victory parade saw the Lionesses travel up The Mall in an open-top bus (Credit: BBC)

Chloe Kelly swears outside Buckingham Palace

Speaking to Alex Scott – who became emotional herself when presenting from the final – Chloe thanked everyone for the support during this year’s Euros. However, caught up in the moment, the star shocked the host – and viewers watching at home – as she dropped the F-bomb.

Chloe said: “Thank you to everyone that got out to support us. Whether that’s in Switzerland or out here today. It’s so [bleep]ing special.”

With the interview going out live on the BBC, and with thousands of kids in the audience in The Mall, Alex was quick to say sorry.

“We are live so I will apologise for that language right there,” the presenter said.

Captain Leah Williamson was also interviewed. She appeared overwhelmed by the size of the crowd and admitted she was struggling with her emotions. Goalie Hannah Hampton also chatted to Alex. Her interview came a day after she announced the death of her grandfather.

Chloe Kelly divided viewers after swearing during the live broadcast (Credit: BBC)

Viewers react

Many watching at home appreciated that Chloe was caught up in the moment. One posted: “Chloe Kelly is SO [bleep]ing Special.” Another commented: “Big up to @chloekelly for dropping an adjectival F-bomb live on TV outside Buckingham Palace.”

Proud to be English? Language is appalling!!!

A third joked: “Chloe Kelly just got a lifetime ban from BBC.”

The England team were greeted by 10,000 fans outside Buckingham Palace (Credit: BBC)
However, not everyone felt the same, with Chloe – who scored the winning penalty – coming in for some stick online.

“Did foul-mouthed #chloekelly just swear!!?” asked one viewer. “Proud to be English? Language is appalling!!! How embarrassing,” said another.

“Indeed, so unnecessary,” said another.

However, others had the England hero’s back. “One word. Not repeated. Slipped out through emotion and adrenaline. You could see she was mortified and wanted to wrap up her interview. It really isn’t that deep,” they said.

Someone else agreed and predicted: “No doubt some weirdos are going to complain to Ofcom about Chloe Kelly swearing on live TV.”

Lionesses win the Euros – twice in succession

Sunday night (July 27) saw Chloe and the rest of the team beat Spain on penalties to win their second successive Euros trophy. They then enjoyed a boozy party with their loved ones until the wee small hours of the morning.

Last night, they headed to 10 Downing Street for a celebration with Angela Rayner.

Now, we’re all hoping they’re recognised on the King’s New Years Honours List.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli had another tough showing at the Belgian Grand Prix, adding to his recent woes at the wheel of a Mercedes F1 car.

Kimi Antonelli took the chequered flag in P16 at the Belgian Grand Prix. The young Italian took a few positions during the early stages of the race and showed promising signs of being able to get into the points after starting from the rear of the grid.

A cautious later pit-stop in the wet-to-dry crossover period saw the Mercedes driver return to the track in the midst of a DRS train, which proved to be too difficult for Antonelli to pick his way through the traffic.

The P16 finish means Antonelli’s podium at the Canadian Grand Prix in June is his only points-scoring finish in the last seven race weekends. This has led F1 fans to believe Toto Wolff made an error with Antonelli and should have let him gain experience at a midfield team in his rookie season instead.

The trajectory of Mercedes’ development has negatively impacted Kimi Antonelli’s results

Speaking to various media outlets, including GPblog, after the conclusion of the Belgian Grand Prix, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin took over the usual media duties from Toto Wolff.

On the topic of another performance by Antonelli without bringing home any points, Shovlin defended his teenage driver, pointing the blame on the Mercedes machinery instead, saying, “Kimi’s on a steep learning curve, and he’s going to be getting better as a driver.

“The fact that his early performances were better than they are now is almost certainly that the car’s not as competitive. And you can see that mirrored in George’s results.”

“When a young driver comes in and they’re in a very good car, they can often really impress. When a young driver comes in and they’re in a difficult car, it’s very hard to get it together week in, week out. We’ve seen enough from Kimi to know that there’s a great deal of talent there.”

Kimi Antonelli’s seat at Mercedes now looks safe after Max Verstappen’s Belgian GP result

Max Verstappen‘s future at Red Bull has been heavily debated in recent weeks amid reports of his unhappiness at the team due to a number of different factors.

Mercedes were heavily linked with signing Verstappen, but faced difficulties in negotiations because of the Dutchman’s contract at F1 rivals Red Bull being valid until 2028.

The German constructor was banking on Verstappen triggering a performance clause within his contract, which would give him the opportunity of discussing terms with another team if he was out of the top three of the drivers’ championship by the start of the summer break.

Verstappen’s P4 finish in Belgium means a move is now ‘out of the question’ for the four-time world champion. He is now 28 points ahead of George Russell in the standings, making it impossible for the Brit to jump him in the event of a perfect weekend from Russell.

The news will surely have a positive impact on Antonelli, who would have had his uncertain future in the back of his mind after another poor result for himself.

Mercedes are also expected to ‘shortly’ announce extensions to Russell and Antonelli’s contracts in another move that should hopefully build the confidence of the 18-year-old.

Oscar Piastri extended his lead at the top of the Formula 1 world championship to 16 points by winning the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday. Piastri overtook McLaren teammate Lando Norris at the start, and that proved to be a decisive move.

The Australian boxed for medium tyres after the track dried out, while Norris went for the hard. The latter sliced Piastri’s lead on the more durable rubber, but he was still 3.4 seconds behind at the flag.

Norris had started on pole position, but as Piastri found out in Saturday’s Sprint (when he lost out to Max Verstappen), that doesn’t offer quite the same advantage at Spa. It was a rolling start this time after the safety car returned to the pits, but the result was the same.

Photo by Andrea Diodato/NurPhoto via Getty Images
It’s increasingly clear with each race that passes that McLaren’s rivals won’t be catching them, even if they’re bound to have some influence on the title race. Karun Chandhok expects Norris and Piastri to battle until the last round, with little to separate them.

Lando Norris says Oscar Piastri makes his life ‘tougher’ than Carlos Sainz did

In an interview for Sky Sports, Naomi Schiff asked Norris whether Piastri is the toughest opponent he’s faced as a McLaren driver. The Englishman made his debut for the team in 2019 and spent his first two years alongside Carlos Sainz.

When Sainz joined Ferrari, McLaren brought in Daniel Ricciardo, a serial Grand Prix winner who never gelled with their car and was cut loose before the end of his contract. That opened the door for Piastri, and now Zak Brown has locked down what he sees as the best line-up in F1.

Norris says that Piastri, as an all-round package, is better than his last two teammates. The 24-year-old has taken major steps forward between each of his first three seasons.

“For sure [he’s my best teammate],” said Norris. “I’m the one that looks at his data the most, that compares things the most.

“His raw speed, his talent, his ability to do things, to level up, to take steps forward when he needs to is better than what I’ve seen from my other teammates. It makes my life tougher, but in a good way because it makes me better.”

Nico Rosberg explains what Oscar Piastri’s body language told him at Belgian Grand Prix

As the table above shows, Norris hasn’t finished behind a teammate since his second season. He’s on course to do so this year, and the stakes are higher than ever.

Martin Brundle says Piastri has a ‘calm head’ that will serve him well in the end-of-year flyaways, when the tension will peak. There’s an argument that Norris is quicker at his absolute best, but that alone may not be enough.

According to Nico Rosberg, Piastri is certain that he will win the title. That much was clear from his body language at Spa.

McLaren won the constructors’ title last year, and now the two drivers are vying to be the teams’ first drivers’ champion since Lewis Hamilton in 2008.

Inside F1’s Secret Power Play: Christian Horner’s Shadow Move on Alpine?

Formula 1 is known for its high-speed thrills, dramatic battles on track, and the intense rivalries between legendary teams and drivers. But every so often, a story emerges that shifts attention from the race track to the murky corridors of power behind the scenes. Recently, a remarkable saga has begun to unfold—one that could rewrite the future of the sport and expose a covert strategic realignment involving one of F1’s most influential figures: Christian Horner, the Red Bull Racing team principal.

The Belgian Grand Prix: More Than Just a Race

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is always a highlight of the F1 calendar, but the aftermath of the latest race was anything but routine. Insiders at the paddock described an unusual tension, a palpable shift in the usual chaotic buzz. Unlike the typical post-race buzz over pit stops, driver performance, or stewarding decisions, this atmosphere hinted at something far more significant. Whispers of a clandestine operation began circulating, not about the next driver lineup or car upgrades, but about a mysterious folder—an internal document from Alpine’s parent company Renault—that was stirring intrigue deep within the paddock.

The Smoking Gun: A Confidential Folder at Renault

Leaked internal documents from Renault revealed the existence of a folder ominously titled Confidential Acquisition Potential Invest Partners. In corporate terms, this signals a formal review of Alpine’s future, possibly its acquisition or strategic partnership. But the real bombshell was the name embedded within the documents: Christian Horner.

This raised eyebrows across the paddock. Why would the leader of Red Bull Racing be referenced in confidential acquisition plans at a rival manufacturer? The answer suggested a highly calculated maneuver—one that could reshape the ownership and control of Alpine, signaling a massive strategic realignment within Formula 1.

An Unregistered Visitor at Alpine’s UK Facility

Even before the rumors started swirling, an incident at Alpine’s technical headquarters in Enstone, UK, raised suspicions. Security logs were mysteriously deleted after an unregistered black vehicle was spotted entering the premises. More revealingly, a leaked photo showed a figure unmistakably identified as Christian Horner inside the compound. With his distinctive walk, posture, and signature luxury watch, Horner’s presence at a rival team’s sensitive technical hub was unprecedented and suspiciously covert.

Such a visit implies more than casual interest; it suggests hands-on involvement, possibly reviewing Alpine’s technical assets, intellectual property, or preparing groundwork for deeper corporate integration.

The Financial Footprint: Orion Capital Ltd.

Digging deeper, financial records uncovered a recently formed investment vehicle—Orion Capital Ltd.—registered just six months prior. Ostensibly, Orion was set up to fund motorsport innovations. However, its registered address ties directly to a property once owned by Christian Horner’s father, hinting at a personal link and suggesting that Orion may be a proxy for Horner himself.

Even more telling was a substantial £14.2 million deposit traced to Orion Capital from an offshore Cayman Islands account, arriving precisely two weeks before Alpine’s public funding announcement. This deposit matches exactly the anonymous external investment Alpine declared, revealing a clandestine financial infusion designed to secure significant influence quietly, without public scrutiny.

Digital Breadcrumbs: Leaked Emails and Puppet Masters

Internal emails leaked by a former Alpine board member exposed the strategic intent behind these financial moves. They referenced a shadowy figure called “Mr. Red B”—a thinly veiled nod to Christian Horner. The emails outlined plans titled Roger. Transition. Full Integration Plan, signaling a complete takeover rather than a simple partnership.

Signed by Bruno Famine, Alpine’s vice president, these communications reveal an urgent and imperative plan to reshuffle Alpine’s executive control by 2026. This isn’t just investment; it’s a full-scale strategic operation to absorb Alpine into a new corporate structure.

Regulatory Silence and the FIA Loophole

One of the most baffling aspects is the near silence from Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA. Given the apparent conflict of interest and potential violation of competitive integrity, why hasn’t the FIA intervened?

According to a high-ranking insider, the FIA operates largely on a complaint-driven basis. Without formal complaints, no action is taken. “There’s nothing illegal if no one complains,” they said, exposing a critical loophole. Unlike financial regulators who can act proactively, the FIA’s system requires parties to raise concerns, allowing powerful figures to exploit regulatory gaps.

What This Means for Formula 1

If Christian Horner is indeed orchestrating a covert takeover or strategic partnership involving Alpine, it could dramatically alter the competitive landscape of Formula 1. Red Bull, already dominant with its RB19, could extend influence over Alpine’s technical and financial assets, potentially marginalizing rivals and consolidating power in a way unseen before.

For Alpine, a historic French racing team, this raises existential questions about its autonomy and identity. Will it remain an independent competitor, or become a satellite of Red Bull’s expanding empire?

The implications ripple beyond sport—touching on governance, transparency, and the very structure of F1 as a global competition.

Conclusion: The Real Race Is Off Track

This investigation reveals that the high-speed battles we see on race day might just be a smokescreen for a deeper, more complex power game happening behind the scenes. Christian Horner’s alleged involvement in Alpine’s corporate future, the shadowy financial maneuvers, and the eerie regulatory silence paint a picture of a sport undergoing a tectonic shift.

As fans, pundits, and insiders watch the 2025 season unfold, one thing is clear: the real race for control in Formula 1 may be happening far away from the cameras, deep in boardrooms and corporate shadows.

The next chapter in this story is sure to be one of the most fascinating ever told in motorsport history.

Full Video:

Max Verstappen Isn’t Buying Into the Five-Pete Dream: A Reality Check for Red Bull’s Reign

The Formula 1 world is buzzing with anticipation and speculation about Max Verstappen’s quest to match the legendary five consecutive world championships achieved by Michael Schumacher with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004. However, despite the optimism radiating from some corners of the Red Bull camp—most notably veteran adviser Helmut Marko—the Dutch superstar himself remains firmly grounded in reality.

The Dream vs. The Reality

Helmut Marko, the 82-year-old Red Bull advisor, has long been an ardent believer that Verstappen can equal Schumacher’s historic feat. Publicly, Marko’s confidence has been unwavering. Yet, Verstappen’s recent comments and the current state of the championship paint a starkly different picture. The five-pete, as it’s often called, feels like a distant dream at best.

After the sprint race at the Belgian Grand Prix, Verstappen trails the championship leader Oscar Piastri by a daunting 81 points. Even Lando Norris, Piastri’s McLaren teammate, is ahead by 65 points. This gap is not trivial—especially in a highly competitive sport where momentum is everything.

To add to Verstappen’s woes, despite winning the sprint race at Spa-Francorchamps, he started Sunday’s Grand Prix from fourth on the grid, with the McLaren duo locking out the front row. The RB21 car, much like its predecessor, continues to display inconsistency and unpredictability that Red Bull engineers have yet to tame fully.

The RB21’s Wild Side

Last season, Verstappen’s relentless pace helped him secure his dominant championship run. This year, however, the MCL39—a car that has shown consistent improvement—has outpaced Red Bull on several occasions, raising questions about the RB21’s competitiveness.

Verstappen himself has dismissed notions of a comeback. He’s no longer indulging in hype, instead focusing on what the car and team can realistically deliver. When asked about Marko’s optimistic remarks, Verstappen was quick to put the speculation to rest, saying, “Helmut is not in the car. I understand that you have to be positive about it. On the other hand, I’m always very realistic about what I feel in the car.”

Spa-Francorchamps: A Microcosm of Red Bull’s Struggles

The Belgian Grand Prix weekend highlighted Red Bull’s ongoing challenges. Verstappen dominated the sprint with a low-downforce setup that maximized straight-line speed. But the team gambled with a high-downforce setup for the main race, anticipating rain. When conditions rapidly changed, switching from wet to dry tire strategies, the setup proved suboptimal.

Verstappen spent much of the race stuck behind Charles Leclerc, the eventual third-place finisher, unable to overtake due to the car’s instability and poor tire management. He candidly admitted, “It was just very tough to pass. At one time I was really close going into Eau Rouge, but you lose so much downforce when you are behind. The car becomes really unstable.”

Moreover, tire degradation remains Red Bull’s Achilles’ heel. Verstappen pointed out, “The biggest problem is still how we keep our tires alive in the race. We’re just not strong enough on that.”

Verstappen’s Overall Takeaway

Despite a positive sprint result, Verstappen acknowledged that the weekend was not where he wanted to be. The setup choices and weather gamble ultimately capped his maximum achievable result to third place, underlining the need for Red Bull to address fundamental performance issues.

Yuki Tsunoda: A Resurgent Force

While Verstappen struggles to close the gap to the leaders, Red Bull’s junior driver Yuki Tsunoda has been quietly impressing. At Spa, Tsunoda showcased renewed pace, qualifying seventh on the grid—just four-tenths off Verstappen’s time.

This resurgence coincides with the arrival of new Red Bull team principal Lauron Mechis, who has brought fresh energy and a supportive environment. Tsunoda, who previously felt isolated within a team focused predominantly on Verstappen, now feels genuinely backed. Mechis’s driver management skills have not gone unnoticed, with 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg highlighting the newfound confidence Tsunoda displays.

However, Tsunoda’s race was hampered by a miscommunication during a crucial pit stop, delaying his switch to slick tires and costing him valuable positions. Despite finishing a disappointing 13th, the underlying pace and support signal promising developments.

The Christian Horner Saga: Change at the Top

Behind the scenes, Red Bull has undergone significant leadership changes. Christian Horner, the team principal widely credited for Red Bull’s recent successes, was recently dismissed from his position. Although no longer trackside, Horner remains connected to the team and Verstappen, offering moral support during races.

Speculation suggests that Horner’s influence had been waning for some time, with tensions reportedly reaching a breaking point as early as the 2024 Bahrain Grand Prix. Former F1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle revealed that Verstappen’s camp had pushed for Horner’s departure, fearing he might hinder the team’s progress.

The Red Bull team is now navigating a new chapter under Mechis, whose driver-centric approach aims to rebalance the focus within the team, moving away from a “one-driver” mentality.

What Lies Ahead for Verstappen and Red Bull?

The combination of car performance issues, a growing points deficit, and internal restructuring presents a formidable challenge for Verstappen and Red Bull. The five-pete dream, while still theoretically possible, requires significant improvements in car development, race strategy, and team cohesion.

Verstappen’s realism about the current situation contrasts with Marko’s optimistic outlook, illustrating a classic tension between hope and pragmatism in elite sports.

Conclusion

Max Verstappen’s reluctance to buy into the five consecutive world titles dream signals a sober reassessment within Red Bull’s camp. With formidable competition from McLaren and Ferrari, plus internal changes reshaping team dynamics, the Dutchman faces an uphill battle to maintain his dominance.

The upcoming races will be crucial, not only for Verstappen’s championship hopes but also for Red Bull’s identity and strategy moving forward. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Yuki Tsunoda and fresh leadership under Lauron Mechis provide a glimmer of hope that the team can recalibrate and reassert itself in the fiercely competitive world of Formula 1.

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Inside F1’s Power Play: Max Verstappen, Red Bull’s Turmoil, and the Road to 2026

Formula 1 is no stranger to drama, but the current saga unfolding within Red Bull Racing is turning heads beyond the track. Behind the polished headlines lies a fierce power struggle that could reshape the sport’s landscape — and it all centers on Max Verstappen, Christian Horner’s sudden exit, and what this means for the future of F1 as the sport gears up for its massive 2026 rule overhaul.

The Alleged Ultimatum That Shook Red Bull

For months, speculation has swirled about Verstappen’s future and Horner’s departure. Was Max leaving? Was Christian forced out? Rumors, contract clauses, and whispers of Mercedes interest flooded the paddock. Yet, according to a controversial insider source claiming months of foresight, much of this chatter was just noise.

This source asserts that Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull is rock solid — signed through at least 2026 — and that his influence was so profound, it directly led to Christian Horner’s exit. The story? An ultimatum: “Her or me.” Verstappen allegedly demanded Horner’s departure, and Red Bull’s management, including team principal Jos Stappen and Helmut Marko, aligned to secure Verstappen’s place by sidelining Horner.

Far from a mutual parting of ways, this paints a picture of a raw, internal power play where Verstappen emerged as the undisputed center of Red Bull’s universe. This isn’t just about a driver and a boss — it’s a seismic shift in how one of F1’s top teams is governed.

No Other Options: The Myth of Verstappen’s Alternatives

One might ask: Could Verstappen really threaten to leave Red Bull? The source calls that a bluff. Contrary to popular belief, switching to a top rival like Mercedes isn’t viable. The politics inside Red Bull’s upper echelon have made Verstappen public enemy number one to certain influential figures — cutting off any real alternatives. So, while Max may have threatened to walk, in reality, Red Bull is his only viable home.

With Horner gone, Verstappen reportedly enjoys unprecedented influence — the source calls his reign a “farmhouse,” a driver-centric fiefdom where his preferences reign supreme and team leadership nods compliantly. The new team director, Laurie Mickey, is said to be more of a figurehead, a “bobblehead” who merely echoes Verstappen and Marko’s wishes, focusing only on technical aspects without interfering in the driver’s wishes.

Perez Left in the Shadows?

This restructured hierarchy allegedly comes with consequences for Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate. The insider alleges Perez is left without the support and resources a second driver typically receives: no dedicated chief race engineer, older car parts, and updates withheld for extended periods — even for up to 10 races at a time. Such treatment would be unthinkable at Ferrari or Mercedes, where both drivers receive near-equal attention to maximize team results.

At Red Bull, it appears the team operates under a radically different doctrine, one centered around Verstappen’s dominance rather than balanced team performance.

The Mercenary Label: Loyalty in Question

This insider doesn’t mince words about Verstappen’s loyalty. Despite a long-term contract reportedly running to 2028, Max is branded a “mercenary,” someone who continually leverages threats to leave to extract maximum advantage. Other teams, the source suggests, avoid chasing him precisely because his reputation for such power plays makes him a risky bet. They’d demand ironclad long contracts without escape clauses — something Verstappen would never agree to.

This alleged toxicity doesn’t just rattle Red Bull — it casts a shadow over the driver market, reinforcing Verstappen’s locked-in status despite public whispers of potential moves.

The Grim Outlook for 2026: Rule Changes, Engine Woes, and Controversy

Looking ahead to 2026, F1 faces one of the most significant technical revolutions in decades — new engine regulations, aerodynamic shifts, and cost controls promise to upend the grid. According to the source, Red Bull’s prospects here are worrying.

The new Red Bull Ford powertrain unit reportedly struggles in development, with serious doubts about its competitiveness. Even more, a controversial rule change — pushed by Helmut Marko’s FIA contacts — lifted the cap on electrical engine development hours. While intended to keep costs down and level the field, this rule was reversed, allowing Red Bull to pour unlimited development time into their power unit.

Yet even with this supposed advantage, the source predicts Red Bull might only manage third or fourth best on the grid in 2026, due to a significant performance gap that might be too large to close quickly.

Short-Term Struggles vs Long-Term Muscle

In the short term, Horner’s departure and Red Bull’s outdated wind tunnel — a key facility for refining the car’s aerodynamics — may cause a dip in performance. Competitors like Mercedes and Ferrari, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and stable leadership, could pull ahead.

However, Red Bull’s financial firepower is massive, fueled by its drinks company parent, enabling them to invest heavily. A new, state-of-the-art wind tunnel is expected to be operational by late 2026, which, combined with their deep pockets, could allow the team to rebound strongly by 2028.

Max’s Strategy Through Lean Years

What’s Verstappen’s game plan if Red Bull stumbles in 2026 and 2027? The insider speculates he will focus on consistently outperforming his teammate to maintain dominance within the team — the “farmhouse” mentality — leveraging his control over the team’s direction.

If after a few years, the car still isn’t championship-worthy, the source says Max might execute what’s dubbed an “extraterrestrial retirement bluff” — an over-the-top threat to quit F1, blaming poor machinery rather than personal decline or lack of alternatives.

Though rumors exist of doors opening elsewhere, the source dismisses them as fantasy, asserting Verstappen is effectively tied to Red Bull for better or worse.

A Glimpse Behind the Glamour: Power, Strategy, and Ruthlessness

This insider’s perspective offers a stark reminder that F1 isn’t just a sport of speed and skill but a high-stakes chessboard of power, loyalty, and ruthless ambition. The traditional image of driver-team harmony contrasts sharply with the reality of driver-centric empires, internal coups, and strategic dominance.

It raises tough questions: What truly drives long-term success in F1? Raw talent? Team unity? Or absolute control wielded by one dominant figure?

Hamilton’s enduring partnership with Mercedes once epitomized loyalty and synergy. Verstappen’s story, as revealed here, suggests a different path — one where power struggles and dominance shape the fate of teams and championships.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

As Formula 1 hurtles toward the 2026 technical revolution, Red Bull finds itself navigating internal upheaval and daunting challenges. Verstappen’s grip on the team seems ironclad, but whether this driver-led structure will lead to continued dominance or eventual decline remains to be seen.

Fans and pundits alike should watch closely — behind the glamour and glitz, F1’s true stories are often those of power, politics, and calculated risk. The next few years may prove to be as much about the battles off-track as the races themselves.

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The Belgian Grand Prix 2025: A Rain-Soaked Drama Denied

Last weekend, the Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit once again proved why it is a staple of the Formula 1 calendar — a track renowned for its unpredictable weather and dramatic racing. Yet, for the fans who eagerly woke up expecting a thrilling wet-weather spectacle, the event turned out to be a frustrating exercise in patience and cautious decisions. Rain delayed the race start by 90 minutes, the Formula 3 race was canceled, and the eventual Grand Prix lacked the intensity wet conditions typically ignite.

Despite the dampened spectacle, the race played a pivotal role in the ongoing title battle between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, two McLaren teammates locked in a fascinating duel this season. Piastri, the Australian rookie who has surprised many with his maturity and pace, passed Norris on the first racing lap and never looked back, securing his sixth victory of the year and extending his championship lead.

Oscar Piastri’s Rise and Record Chase

Piastri’s performance in Belgium marked his eighth career win, placing him on equal footing with Norris and Charlotte Clair in terms of career victories. Starting his F1 journey later than many of his peers, Piastri is swiftly climbing the ranks, now tying with Daniel Ricciardo for career wins. He trails only his manager, former F1 driver Mark Webber, by one victory and could soon surpass Australian legend Jack Brabham’s record for most career wins by an Australian, though matching Brabham’s three world championships remains a distant goal.

Piastri’s ability to control the race after overtaking Norris so early was reminiscent of Max Verstappen’s dominant sprint race the day before, where the Dutch driver swiftly overtook Piastri and set the pace. However, unlike the sprint race, the Grand Prix was less about battling on the track and more about strategic choices under challenging conditions.

FIA’s Wet Weather Approach Sparks Controversy

The biggest talking point of the weekend was not the racing itself, but the FIA’s cautious approach to the torrential rain that plagued the region. The delay in race start, the decision to run two safety car laps behind a slow-moving car, and the eventual drying conditions raised questions about whether the governing body had been overly cautious.

Max Verstappen was notably vocal about his frustration. The Red Bull driver explained that his team’s wet-weather setup was essentially wasted due to the FIA’s decision to wait for drying conditions. “If the FIA continues to wait for dry weather, then a wet setup is always a disadvantage,” Verstappen lamented. He described the race as “not really wet weather racing,” arguing that the event should have started at the scheduled time, despite the challenging conditions between Turns 1 and 5.

Verstappen’s concerns highlight a critical issue in modern F1 — the tradeoff between safety and spectacle. Since the introduction of the new ground-effect cars, visibility in the wet has become a serious concern. The incredible downforce generated throws vast amounts of water into the air, creating enormous spray that severely limits driver vision. This has forced the FIA to err on the side of caution, a stance made more prominent after some scary incidents in the recent British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Fans and Media Voice Discontent

The wider F1 community echoed Verstappen’s sentiments. Media outlets such as ESPN called the delayed start a missed opportunity for a classic race, pointing to the volatile Belgian weather’s history of producing unforgettable wet races, such as the 1998 Grand Prix filled with crashes and drama. Fans had hoped for another such spectacle but were instead treated to a largely processional race on drying tarmac.

The criticism suggests the FIA’s current protocol may be robbing the sport of its most thrilling moments. While safety remains paramount, many argue that the sport has lost some of its edge by postponing races until conditions are almost perfectly dry, rather than embracing the inherent risks and excitement of racing in the rain.

Lewis Hamilton’s Redemption Run

While Verstappen struggled with his wet setup being nullified, Lewis Hamilton experienced a weekend full of ups and downs. The seven-time world champion had a particularly rough outing by his standards, failing to advance past Q1 in qualifying and finishing a lowly 15th in Saturday’s sprint race. However, Hamilton managed to claw back some respectability by finishing seventh in the main race on Sunday.

Starting from the pit lane due to an engine change allowed Hamilton and his Ferrari team to modify his car’s setup, adding much-needed downforce for the wet conditions. This gamble paid dividends early on, as Hamilton charged through the field during the initial wet stint while many competitors struggled with their low-downforce setups.

Sadly, Hamilton’s gains evaporated once the track dried and the field switched to slick tires. The Ferrari’s setup, optimized for grip in wet conditions, compromised straight-line speed and made overtaking nearly impossible despite his aggressive efforts and use of DRS (Drag Reduction System). The race ended up highlighting the ongoing technical challenge F1 faces with wet racing — balancing car setup for varying conditions and managing tire performance.

The Technical Hurdles of Wet Racing in F1

The fundamental reason F1 rarely embraces full wet racing lies in the cars’ aerodynamics. The new generation of ground-effect cars generates massive downforce, pushing water through the diffuser and ejecting it high into the air behind the car. This creates thick plumes of spray that drastically reduce visibility for trailing drivers, making wheel-to-wheel racing dangerous.

Although the FIA has tested spray guards on tires to mitigate this, the results have been insufficient to restore safe conditions for wet racing. With next season’s technical regulations aiming to reduce ground effect somewhat, it remains to be seen whether wet-weather races will become more viable. Experts predict that true wet racing — where drivers push at the limit through rain-soaked circuits — may not return for at least another four seasons.

What Does This Mean for F1’s Future?

The Belgian Grand Prix has reignited a debate about the balance between safety and entertainment in Formula 1. While it’s undeniable that modern cars and circuits are safer than ever before, the loss of rain-affected races removes one of the sport’s most electrifying elements. Fans cherish those unpredictable, adrenaline-fueled moments where driver skill, tire choice, and strategy collide in chaotic conditions.

Drivers like Verstappen and Hamilton have shown they still yearn for the challenge and glory of wet racing, even if the current format limits their opportunities. Meanwhile, the FIA faces the difficult task of evolving its regulations to accommodate both safety concerns and fans’ desire for action-packed racing.

Conclusion: A Bit of a Shame, But Hope Remains

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix was a classic example of the double-edged sword rain brings to Formula 1. It promised drama but delivered delay and frustration. Oscar Piastri’s win solidified his status as a serious title contender, and Lewis Hamilton’s resilience showed the adaptability of F1’s best. Yet, the controversy surrounding the FIA’s cautious approach to wet weather overshadowed much of the on-track action.

For fans and drivers alike, the hope is that future technical changes will restore the thrill of wet racing to the pinnacle of motorsport. Until then, the Belgian Grand Prix serves as a reminder of what once was — and what could be again — when rain, risk, and racing combine to create unforgettable moments.

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