Author: bang7

The Waleses are looking to upsize from their modest Adelaide Cottage in the grounds of Windsor Castle and an insider says that they are considering a mansion which was the favourite of Edward Vll

Prince William and Kate with their children(Image: Getty Images)

Prince William and Kate are house hunting as they look to upsize to a grander royal residence and insiders reportedly say they have one favourite.

The Waleses moved to Adelaide Cottage three years ago and while it is comfortable for them in the grounds of Windsor Castle it was unlikely to be their long-term base. The four-bedroom pad is fairly modest by royal standards and it is understood that they have been quietly on the lookout for alternatives. Adelaide Cottage is a fraction of the size of the Wales family’s former full-time – a palatial apartment in Kensington Palace and they want a bigger place for kids George, Charlotte and Louis.

William and Kate are reportedly looking at Fort Belvedere(Image: High Level/REX/Shutterstock)

And it appears as though the favourite location is Fort Belvedere, a stunning gothic revival mansion in Windsor Great Park. Sources have told the Mail on Sunday that William and Kate could be looking at Fort Belvedere which was built in the 18th century and was the preferred home of Edward Vlll before he abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson.

It was renovated by Edward who put in a swimming pool, tennis court and stables and it is a huge property which has a long path to the entrance and even has a moat running around it.

William and Kate are understood to have considered the vacant Fort Belvedere previously before deciding on Adelaide Cottage.

At that point they are believed to have thought Adelaide Cottage was more suitable as it was closer to Queen Elizabeth and they also wanted to give their children a more down to earth start.

The Wales’ moved to Adelaide Cottage two years ago (Image: REX/Shutterstock)

But now the situation has moved on and the grade ll-listed property could be the answer. “They feel they have outgrown Adelaide Cottage and need somewhere more substantial,” a source told the outlet. “This is the perfect new home for them. It has a swimming pool and tennis court, and Charlotte loves playing tennis.”

Previously it has also been suggested that the Waleses could have a larger base through an annex building by Adelaide Cottage which would avoid them having to move.

“Nobody knows that there is quite a spacious red-brick annex building that’s not being used next door to Adelaide Cottage. It’s currently inhabitable and needs extensive renovation works if it were to be used,” a source told the Express.

“Discussions have been ongoing for a while about using the property as part of the overall cottage grounds, but it’s just about finding the right time to kick the project off.”

Rebecca Loos, one of the famous faces braving this year’s Celebrity SAS opens up about ‘that’ David Beckham scandal and how being branded a ‘liar’ has forced her to develop a thick skin

Rebecca says she’s developed a thick skin after ‘a lifetime of opinions around her'(Image: Channel 4)

Rebecca Loos faces a grilling on Celebrity SAS about her affair with David Beckham – and she dubbed him a “coward” for the way he brushed what happened under the carpet on his Netflix documentary.

Loos was Beckham’s personal assistant in 2003 and claims broke the following year about them having a four month fling. Beckham said reports of the affair were “ludicrous” at the time but never mounted a legal challenge to the story or any subsequent interviews. Loos went on to appear on reality shows like The Farm and Celebrity Love Island before stepping out of the limelight and is now a yoga teacher in Norway.

The model-turned-yoga teacher gave a tell-all interview to GMB about the Beckham saga in 2023(Image: ITV)

On her TV comeback on Channel 4 this week, Rebecca said: “I just wanted to show people who I am and just be myself, which has always been my thing. And I just went in it with a very open mind and take it as it comes.

“I was quite nervous as to how the others would perceive me. I was nervous and apprehensive as to how the show would be edited, because that’s always something you have no control of. However, I must say the production team on this show have been absolutely amazing from day one, they have been truthful, they have stuck to their word.

“It felt unjust that my life was pretty hell and his(Becks) life kept going and kept blossoming. I’ve been accused of being a liar. I’ve had a lifetime of opinions around me, I’ve definitely developed thick skin. I think the public opinion now has softened, at least from what I’m gathering since the documentary came out with the Beckhams a couple of years ago. I think it is now because thanks to social media, there is a whole different following out there, which it’s a double-edged sword.

“You’ve got the online trolls but I don’t think that many people, at least the younger generation, know me that well. I’ve never really been very interested in what people think of me to be honest. It doesn’t bother me. I don’t think about it. I don’t know what the perception is of me. I don’t really care. I’m just myself, and some like it and some don’t. And that’s just how life is.”

Like all the recruits, Rebecca faced a grilling in the show’s Mirror Room. Jason Fox and Chris Oliver questioned her motives for being on the show before asking how she felt about her affair with Beckham now she’s had the time to reflect on it.

The mum-of-two admits she was nervous about going on the show(Image: Pete Dadds / Channel 4)

On his Netflix 2023 doc Beckham didn’t name Rebecca and failed to take any accountability. He just said: “I don’t know how we got through it in all honesty,” on a tricky time when he lived in Madrid.

On being asked about Beckham on the Channel 4 show and what she feels about how things have played out, she added: “I was quite guarded at the beginning. I was trying to be guarded because it’s not something I want to talk about the whole time. But at the same time I also wanted to be honest with them, so they were really good at getting through to me.

“They’re obviously professionals at this. I don’t shy away from what I’ve been through, and I don’t shy away from the decisions that I’ve made. They have shaped me into who I am, and I’ve really learnt a lot from the mistakes that I’ve made in my life and the things that I’ve done. And I really do think that being truthful is the only way to go in life. I’ll stand by that forever.

“It takes a lot of courage to tell the truth and to own up to mistakes that you have made, mistakes and times in your life you’re not proud of. And it’s very easy to just brush them under the carpet and move on. That’s like the coward’s way, I think, of living.”

Asked if the SAS experience changes her, she said: “I very much like how they instil in you that even though you want to give up, you don’t. And it’s easier to take the easy way out, but you’ve got to fight and push through, and push hard. They gave me a bit of SAS grit. They really inspired me. When I came out of the show, I had made some changes in my life, which I think is definitely thanks to SAS.

Rebecca nows lives a quiet life in a remote part of Norway with her family(Image: PA)

“I quit alcohol. That was the first thing I did. I wasn’t a big drinker, but I was a social drinker and I noticed that it wasn’t good for me and my hormones and what I was going through, and it was having quite a negative effect on me, mentally. So I just decided to cut that out and I started lifting heavy weights. I wanted to get strong. I know it’s really good for my bones, it’s very good for women.

“I was in perimenopause last year. And I’ve also started taking HRT. I’ve just started doing things to make sure that I live a healthy and strong life, that I age feeling strong, that I’m able to put a weight on my back and run up a mountain if I have to. So yeah, it was a bit of a kick in the arse to test myself a little bit again. I think in the years prior to SAS, I went through a lot as a mother as well because I had a youngest son who was struggling a lot.”

Surviving on the SAS course has made Rebecca come to terms with aging and accepting that now she’s a mother she’s more risk averse: “I used to be a risk-taker when I was younger, an absolute risk-taker. I used to love it. I used to thrive on it. Whereas now, no way. Motherhood has softened me. Aging, growing, maturing, we change. I won’t speak for all the women, but at least I have become slightly softer, more careful.

“And that’s probably due to the fact that I hardly have any hormones left in my body. I’m in a different phase. It was a bit of a wake-up call to that. But realising and accepting that is very empowering and it’s very positive and it’s not a negative thing at all. I like being very aware of what I’m going through and who I am.”

Rebecca’s life today is a far cry from the media frenzy that exploded around her during the Beckham scandal in 2004. Now living a quiet, picture-perfect life for the last 14 years in Norway with her husband of 13 years, Norwegian doctor Sven Christjar Skaiaa, who she met whilst filming the reality programme, 71 Graden Noord, she is also mother to two sons, Magnus, 16, and Liam,13.

She has been open with her two sons about her explosive past(Image: Channel 4)

The family is based in the remote area of Buskerud county, which is a three-hour trip to the nearest airport. Working as a yoga teacher and massage therapist, she revealed previously that she quit the UK for a “very different” life, to raise her “little Vikings”,

She has said of her life in Norway. ‘It’s not like England here, it’s much less judgmental. I used to get people coming up to me in Waitrose, right in my face, taking pictures of me with their mobiles”

Rebecca has also revealed how open she is with her sons about her past, including the attention thrust upon her over her alleged affair with Beckham, something he has always denied.

She said in 2023: “They know. And so I said – and I feel that it’s very unfair because of the way I’m being treated now and the bullying I’m getting and the trolling. And I want to say something. And I’m going to do an interview, so there might be some media and how do you feel about that.

“And so my youngest son said, oh, good. He’s a bit like me. He’s like, good for you, Mummy. Yes, I would say something to him. And my eldest son, he said, well, I don’t really know anything about Beckham. It’s not like it’s Messi, Mummy. I mean, had it been Messi…’

EXCLUSIVE: Peter Andre opens up in his exclusive Ok! column about the on-air experience he’d rather forget, saying goodbye to a legend and why becoming a dad later in life is a personal choice

The 90s pop icon recalls a moment onstage he’d rather forget(Image: Getty Images)

Peter Andre has opened up in his exclusive column with OK! this week about what he calls one of the ‘most embarrassing moments of his life’, as he gives his take on Lady Gaga’s recent tumble during a recent gig in the U.S.

The Abracadabra hitmaker was kicking off the Mayhem Ball at T-Mobile Arena on July 16 in Las Vegas, Navada – and was seen losing her balance and falling over, as she approached the barricade to interact with fans, during a rendition of her song Vanish Into You.

Gaga took a tumble as she approached fans during a Vegas gig(Image: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation)

In videos posted online, the star could be seen slipping as she walked past a cameraman, who nearly lost his footing too, just before she rather ironically sang the lyrics, “Into the night … we fall,” and then hit the ground, landing on her backstage – before getting up like a pro and continuing her walk by the brricade.

Peter, who is famed for his 90s hit Mysterious Girl and currently working on a new album, said of the incident: “I saw Lady Gaga ’s awkward faceplant at a gig. It’s awful when that happens. But I doubt she’ll be having sleepless nights over it – these things happen during live shows.”

He added, referring to the moment Queen of Pop Madonna took a stumble down some steps during the 2015 Brit Awards while performing Living for Love before confessing he’s felt the heat of similar embarrassment: “Look at the Madonna incident, for example. Admittedly, on a smaller scale, it happened to me once on the T4 stage. Walking down steps, I tripped and fell. It was so embarrassing – and it was on TV. But people forget… until you remind them about it, which I just did.”

Madonna suffered an epic fall at the BRITs in 2015(Image: Redferns via Getty Images)

During an episode of Sky’s Extraordinary Life Stories in 2023, , Peter opened up on the memorable slip-up while performing live on stage, recalling the cringeworthy moment at the T4 on The Beach festival in 2009 to host, John Reynolds.

The dad-of-four said: “I appeared on the episode to discuss lots of topics, including my childhood, career highlights and family life. We also discussed the funny moments in my career, including my unfortunate trip off the stage at T4 On The Beach, among other things.”

The mishap occurred while Peter was performing his then-new song Behind Closed Doors. He lost his footing while singing to the capacity crowd and ended up falling completely off the stage, losing his glasses in the process. However, like a pro, he carried on and didn’t let the fact his glasses slid off his face stop him from finishing his song.

The Nolans singer spoke of the emotional moment on ITV’s Good Morning Britain

Anne Nolan appeared on Good Morning Britain(Image: ITV)

Anne Nolan has opened up about the emotional moment she found out she was cancer free.

The Nolans singer, and sister of Loose Women’s Coleen Nolan, has battled breast cancer twice. Earlier this year, the family lost Linda to the disease, while Bernie died of the same illness in 2013.

Anne, 74, received the news just days ago that she is cancer-free, having been first diagnosed in 2000 and then 20 years later.

Appearing on Monday’s Good Morning Britain, she shared the emotional journey she’s faced, and the relief at her health update after a gruelling chemo journey and the anxiety she suffered.

Anne revealed her relief after her “traumatic” health journey(Image: ITV)

She began: “It’s been very traumatic, when I received the letter a few weeks ago, I picked it up, and it said NHS, and I thought, ‘Oh I don’t want to know, I’m not sure if I want to know if it’s bad news.’

“And I put it aside for about ten minutes, and after a while my logical brain kicked in and said, ‘You have to find out, you need to know’.

“I opened it and it was all good news, and I had a bit of a weep at the beginning.

“I feel lucky, blessed, relieved, and then emotional thinking about my sisters having gone through the same thing but not surviving.”

Anne and Linda, who died earlier this year, went through chemotherapy treatment together(Image: ITV)

Anne went on to say she thinks her sister Linda would be “looking down and thinking thank goodness” at her health update.

She recalled receiving her diagnosis just one week before Linda’s, and going through their treatment together during the pandemic.

“Linda and I were there to support each other, we had our chemo together, she was the one who called us the chemo sisters, she was always in a good mood, always happy and kept me going, because I had a bad time during my chemo.

“It was great to have her support, and then her cancer spread and she didn’t survive, so when I got my letter to say I was clear of cancer […] I did think about Linda at the time, and Bernie as well.”

The Nolans have faced immense grief over the years, after Bernie’s (top right) death in 2013 and Linda’s earlier this year (bottom left)(Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)

Her comments come after she spoke of her “guilt” at receiving her news in an interview with The Mirror.

“Although I was absolutely thrilled, I did think about them,” she said.

“I didn’t feel guilty because it’s nothing to do with me but I did feel sad that they weren’t as lucky as I was.

“It’s an emotional thing for me to think about them not surviving and then I did survive. But that’s just the luck of the draw.”

Anne, pictured at Linda’s funeral in February(Image: Getty Images)

She added: “I always consider myself lucky when I look at my two sisters. Linda went through a terrible time and so did Bernie.”

Anne continued by saying she suffered with “anxiety about dying”, which she still deals with today.

The mum-of-two and grandmother-of-three said: “I still have anxiety but it’s not as bad. I have anxieties about dying. It is about the cancer coming back as well. That’s why I didn’t want to open the letter. I don’t want to die, I love being alive. I love being here.”

F1’s Belgian Grand Prix: Safety vs. Spirit of Racing

Formula 1 is no stranger to drama, both on and off the track. However, few events stirred as much debate this season as the decision to delay the start of the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps for over an hour due to rain. The prolonged wait was framed as a safety precaution by the FIA, but it highlighted a deeper issue within the sport: the ongoing tension between safety concerns and the raw, unpredictable spirit of racing. This delay and the ensuing controversy have brought to the forefront questions about how F1 handles extreme weather conditions and the delicate balance between protecting drivers and maintaining the thrilling spectacle of racing.

The Incident: A Familiar Storm at Spa

The rain that struck Spa-Francorchamps during the Belgian Grand Prix wasn’t just any downpour; it was the kind that created significant challenges for both the drivers and the organizers. After an hour and 20-minute delay, the race finally began behind the safety car, which would be the only way for the drivers to navigate the track under such conditions. At first glance, it seemed like a typical situation—rain causing delays in a sport where unpredictability is part of the thrill. However, as the delay dragged on, questions began to arise, particularly regarding the underlying reasons for the postponement.

The official line from the FIA was that visibility was dangerously low due to the spray kicked up by the cars. It wasn’t just the water on the track itself but the way the cars’ aerodynamics interacted with the wet conditions, creating a blinding wall of mist. Lando Norris even stated that the safety car itself was generating too much spray, making it difficult for drivers to see properly, which added to the growing concerns. The issue of visibility—particularly in Spa’s notoriously tricky corners such as Eau Rouge—was a valid concern, especially in light of the track’s history, including the tragic death of Anthony Bear in 2019, which still looms large in the collective memory of the paddock.

The FIA’s Call: Safety First

The FIA’s decision to delay the race was undoubtedly influenced by Spa’s complex and sometimes dangerous layout, with its high-speed sections and blind crests. The safety of the drivers was undoubtedly at the forefront of the governing body’s mind, particularly given the fatal accidents in the sport’s history at similar tracks. The FIA had already signaled in previous meetings, including a notable one at Silverstone, that safety would always come first in extreme weather conditions. This philosophy, however, was not without its critics, particularly from those who felt the decision went too far.

Diverging Opinions in the Paddock

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix’s delay sparked a fierce debate in the paddock, with opinions divided on whether the FIA had taken the right approach. On one side, drivers like Liam Lawson, Esteban Ocon, and Oscar Piastri publicly supported the FIA’s decision, stating that the safety concerns were justified, especially given the challenging nature of Spa under wet conditions. These drivers pointed out that the track’s historical dangers and the need to prioritize driver safety were paramount, and they were content with the delay.

However, the other side of the debate was equally vocal. Prominent figures like Carlos Sainz, Lewis Hamilton, and Charles Leclerc were among those who felt that the FIA had acted too cautiously. They argued that despite the rain, conditions were still raceable, and that more track time could have been given even with the challenging conditions. Hamilton, in particular, was vocal in his criticism, pointing out that his Mercedes car was specifically set up for wet conditions, and thus, he felt the team could have raced sooner. For drivers like him, it wasn’t just about safety—it was about maximizing their strategic advantage and taking the race to the limits of their skill.

Max Verstappen and Red Bull: A Strategic Perspective

As expected, Max Verstappen and Red Bull were among the strongest critics of the delay. Verstappen, who thrives in wet conditions, felt that the race could have started much earlier. The strategic play for Red Bull had been to optimize the car for wet conditions, and Verstappen was eager to take advantage of this setup while the track remained wet. His frustration was clear as he argued that the delay ruined what could have been a classic rain race, one in which drivers’ skill would have been tested to the fullest.

Red Bull’s stance was clear: a few laps behind the safety car could have been enough to clear standing water and reduce spray, making conditions manageable. Red Bull’s advisor, Helmut Marko, was particularly blunt in his assessment, saying that the caution displayed was excessive and that the race could have resumed much earlier.

For Red Bull, the delay had significant implications. Once the track began to dry, Verstappen’s advantage in the wet conditions was eroded, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc became much more competitive. This strategic nuance highlighted how, in F1, opinions about race conditions often align with a team’s own interests and setups, showing the critical role strategy plays in shaping how drivers and teams perceive such decisions.

The Broader Implications: F1’s Wet Weather Dilemma

This debate brings to light a more significant issue for Formula 1—how the sport handles extreme weather conditions. F1’s technical development, particularly its aerodynamics and tires, has evolved to such an extent that the cars are increasingly ill-suited for heavy rain. The full wet tire, which was once a critical component in enabling races to continue in wet conditions, is now rarely used effectively. This reflects a broader issue where the sport’s technological advancements, while pushing performance to new heights, have also made F1 cars more susceptible to weather extremes.

In the past, races like the 2007 and 2008 Belgian Grands Prix, the 2009 Japanese Grand Prix, and the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix were unforgettable for their challenging wet conditions and the incredible driver skill on display. These races showcased the raw, unpredictable nature of F1—where driver talent, car control, and bravery in the face of treacherous conditions defined the outcome. The loss of such races, where driver skill was truly tested, is a cause for concern, as it strips away one of the defining elements of F1 that has captivated fans for decades.

The Future of Wet Weather Racing in F1

Looking ahead, the future of wet weather racing in Formula 1 seems uncertain. The sport is caught in a difficult balancing act between ensuring the safety of drivers and maintaining the exciting, unpredictable nature of racing. As F1 moves forward, it will have to decide how to handle situations like the Belgian Grand Prix, where safety is paramount but the spectacle of racing in difficult conditions is equally important.

For fans, the question remains: how much are we willing to sacrifice in the name of safety? And as F1 continues to evolve with new technologies and safety measures, will the sport lose some of the edge-of-your-seat excitement that made it so captivating in the first place?

In the end, the rain at Spa-Francorchamps wasn’t just a weather event—it was a reflection of the larger challenges Formula 1 faces as it navigates the balance between safety, technology, and the raw spirit of racing. The debate will continue, but for now, the sport must confront a fundamental question: How much of the wild, unpredictable side of F1 are we willing to lose in the name of caution?

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Oscar Piastri won the Belgian Grand Prix after an early move on teammate Lando Norris to extend his lead in the title race.

Piastri made a stunning move on Norris in the opening stages of the race, going around the outside as they exited Raidillon and pulling off the move on the Kemmel Straight.

It was a carbon copy of how Max Verstappen won the Sprint race, with Piastri joking that it was part of his “plan” over team radio post-race to start from second.

McLaren put both drivers on split strategies, but Piastri managed to make his medium tyres last despite concerns that he could not make it until the end.

Norris closed the gap to within 3.4 seconds at the chequered flag, but Piastri held on to extend his championship lead. Discussing his performance on Sky Sports F1, former driver Martin Brundle highlighted one attribute Piastri showed in the race that will pay ‘dividends’ in the title battle.

Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images

Martin Brundle highlights ‘calm head’ of Oscar Piastri

Piastri has demonstrated throughout the season his ability to remain calm under pressure, and even with an unfavoured strategy, he managed to hold on to the win.

Brundle praised Piastri and highlighted that his ‘calm head’ will be a big asset in the remaining races of the title battle with Norris.

Croft: “He’s solid, he’s unpenetrable sometimes Oscar Piastri. He doesn’t get too flustered or excited or too down and depressed.”

Brundle: “That calm head of his, when it comes down to the championship showdown, is going to pay such big dividends for him.”

Oscar Piastri moves over three wins clear of Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen’s hopes of winning a fifth title in a row just got harder, as Piastri moved three race wins clear in the points tally.

Piastri is now on 266 points compared to Verstappen’s 185 points, effectively signifying that his title challenge might be over.

Verstappen and Red Bull knew winning this year would be a stretch, especially after they had to contend with the issues thrown up by the RB21.

The added management change at Red Bull, with Christian Horner being sacked and Laurent Mekies taking his place, shows that the team is now in its transitional phase.

The Crisis at Ferrari: Hamilton’s Struggles at Spa Expose Deeper Issues

Welcome to F1 News Inside the F1, where we dive into one of the most talked-about topics reverberating throughout the Formula 1 paddock: Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected struggles at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa. This wasn’t just a race incident—it was a revelation that has raised many eyebrows and left the entire F1 world buzzing with speculation and concern. When Hamilton made the chilling statement, “It’s the first time in my career,” it sent shockwaves far beyond the race weekend.

This wasn’t merely about a rare off weekend or a minor mistake; it pointed to something much deeper. A driver as legendary as Hamilton—someone who’s dominated the sport for two decades—experiencing a fundamental breakdown in his relationship with the car is unprecedented. For the first time in his illustrious career, Hamilton admitted to an overwhelming disconnect, one he’d never before encountered. And this rupture, this breakdown, is far more than a struggle with car setup or tricky conditions—it hints at an issue deeply ingrained within the team and the car’s design itself.

The Events at Spa: A Shocking Revelation

The drama at Spa didn’t begin with an explosive crash or a major accident, but rather with a series of unsettling, seemingly minor incidents. On Friday, Hamilton didn’t just spin his car—his moment of losing control felt symbolic. It wasn’t just a loss of grip; it suggested a deeper, underlying issue with the car that was fundamentally misfiring for Hamilton. The weekend only worsened from there.

On Saturday, Hamilton shockingly exited Q1, which means he was knocked out of the first stage of qualifying, finishing outside the top 15. For a seven-time world champion, this was unthinkable. It wasn’t just about poor performance; it was about a breakdown of trust between Hamilton and the car, a disconnect that echoed throughout his entire performance. And then, to everyone’s astonishment, he exited Q1 again in the next session. This was a career first. A driver who had mastered the art of precision and control found himself consistently battling a car that refused to behave in the way he expected.

It wasn’t just a question of poor setup or driver error. Hamilton’s usual connection to his car—one almost psychic in its precision—was absent. The car was, as one source described it, “disobeying him entirely.” This was not a minor issue. It was a profound rupture between driver and machine, an issue that no amount of quick fixes or changes could resolve.

The Breakdown: No Clear Support from Ferrari

What made this situation even more perplexing and troubling was the lack of immediate response from Ferrari. In the face of Hamilton’s public struggles, there was no immediate support from the team. No engineers came forward to explain the issues or defend Hamilton. The usual response—an urgent debrief or some form of reassurance—was absent. Instead, the silence from Ferrari was deafening.

It wasn’t just a lack of communication; it was the apparent absence of a culture of support. In contrast, at Mercedes, Hamilton was accustomed to a culture where failure was shared, and everyone pulled together to solve problems. But at Ferrari, it felt as though the blame was being squarely placed on Hamilton’s shoulders. This lack of solidarity was felt deeply, both on the radio and in the paddock. The silence was a signal of something far deeper—a systemic issue within the team that was now being exposed.

The rumored new suspension package, which was supposed to turn things around for Hamilton, failed to deliver. According to sources, it was a game-changer for his teammate Charles Leclerc, who appeared to thrive with the new setup. But for Hamilton, it was a nightmare, and the team failed to address his struggles in real-time. Instead, they continued to focus on Leclerc’s positive feedback while Hamilton was left to carry the weight of the car’s problems alone.

The Split: Ferrari’s Political Divide

As the weekend unfolded, the contrast between Hamilton’s struggles and Leclerc’s relative success became glaringly evident. Despite using the same car and upgrades, Leclerc secured a solid P4, while Hamilton could not even get out of Q1. This disparity highlighted a key issue within Ferrari: a fundamental split within the team.

Sources close to the team have suggested that the SF25, Ferrari’s car, is politically divided. While both drivers are using the same car, they are operating in different realities—one where Leclerc’s preferences and driving style are prioritized, and another where Hamilton’s feedback and needs are not being fully addressed. This political divide within Ferrari is not just about car setup; it’s about power dynamics and who the team is truly building the car for.

Leclerc, seen as Ferrari’s long-term bet, is reportedly treated like a “native prince” within the team, with his feedback and driving style shaping the development of the car. Meanwhile, Hamilton, the outsider, is expected to adapt to a car that was not built with his needs in mind. This creates a highly challenging environment for a driver of Hamilton’s caliber, especially when he is accustomed to a more collaborative, transparent approach to car development at Mercedes.

The Trust Breakdown: Hamilton vs. Ferrari’s Culture

This dynamic goes beyond mere technicalities. Hamilton is now facing a team culture that seems to be deeply entrenched in a specific driver-first mentality. He is expected to adapt, to make a car that was designed around someone else’s preferences work for him. This is a stark contrast to the environment he thrived in at Mercedes, where every mistake was treated as an opportunity for growth, and every member of the team worked together to solve problems.

At Ferrari, however, there is a sense of isolation. Hamilton’s struggles were not met with the usual team-oriented response. Instead, there was silence—a sign of a deeper, perhaps more insidious issue within the team. This lack of support could erode Hamilton’s trust in Ferrari’s ability to help him succeed.

What’s more troubling is the suggestion that this cultural divide is systemic, affecting every level of the team. The Ferrari leadership appears to be less transparent, less willing to admit faults or failures, and more focused on deflecting blame. This creates an environment where failure is isolated, and success is seen as an individual achievement rather than a collective one.

The Future: Hamilton’s Dilemma at Ferrari

So, what does this all mean for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s future? The Belgian Grand Prix was more than just a disappointing race for Hamilton—it was a wake-up call. It exposed the fragility of Ferrari’s internal dynamics and revealed how deeply ingrained political divisions are shaping the team’s performance. For Hamilton, this is a critical juncture in his career. He must decide whether he believes in Ferrari’s long-term vision and whether he can truly succeed within a system that seems to be working against him.

For Ferrari, the question is whether they can build a car and a team that can support both of their world-class drivers equally. If the internal political divide continues to widen, it will undoubtedly affect their championship aspirations. A team that is divided against itself cannot hope to compete against the likes of Mercedes and Red Bull, who seem to operate with greater unity and focus.

In the end, Hamilton’s struggles at Spa might be the beginning of a much larger, more complex battle within Ferrari. It is a battle for trust, for leadership, and for the soul of the team itself. Whether Hamilton can navigate these turbulent waters and lead Ferrari to success—or whether he will ultimately find himself forced to seek greener pastures—remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher, and the future of Ferrari and Hamilton’s legacy is on the line.

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Although official confirmation hasn’t arrived yet, Max Verstappen is looking increasingly likely to remain a Red Bull Racing driver in 2026.

The Belgian Grand Prix brought some joy for Red Bull and Max Verstappen on a weekend that was expected to be dominated by McLaren.

Verstappen outqualified Lando Norris for Saturday’s Sprint Race, and got the run on Oscar Piastri to win the shortened event at Spa in front of thousands of Dutch fans.

New team principal Laurent Mekies apologised to Verstappen after Sunday’s Grand Prix, as he started where he finished in fourth.

He couldn’t find a way past Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari, and the two McLarens were in a different league compared to the rest of the field.

The four-time world champion’s future has been one of the most widely discussed topics in Formula 1 this season.

Mercedes have been heavily linked with Verstappen, but his contract runs until the end of 2028, which makes any deal very difficult to negotiate.

However, the result of the race in Spa appears to have categorically closed off any chance of Verstappen blowing the Formula 1 driver market wide open with a sensational move down the paddock.

Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images

Mercedes buying Max Verstappen out of his Red Bull contract is now ‘out of the question’

A report from the Dutch outlet De Telegraaf has shared more details about the Dutchman’s future.

It’s believed that Verstappen has a get-out clause in his Red Bull contract that would allow him to negotiate with other teams if he was below the top three in the drivers’ championship heading into the summer break.

However, with Verstappen finishing ahead of Mercedes driver George Russell, the gap between the two drivers has grown to 28 points.

This means that Russell cannot score enough points to leapfrog Verstappen in the drivers’ championship at the final race before the summer break in Hungary.

It’s now been reported that Verstappen leaving without activating the clause is ‘out of the question’.

This would require him to formally tell Red Bull he wants to depart, and Mercedes spending a fortune buying him out the remainder of his contract.

Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, wouldn’t comment at the Belgian Grand Prix when asked about any performance clauses in the contract, ‘pointing to Verstappen’s ongoing commitment to Red Bull’.

While the report goes on to say that the talk behind the scenes about Mercedes’ 2026 engine is ‘positive’, there are still no guarantees that they’ll be the leading force on the grid next season.

Frederic Vasseur makes Max Verstappen prediction for the 2025 Formula 1 season

Verstappen is now 81 points behind Piastri in the drivers’ championship, and it would require the greatest comeback in Formula 1 history for him to win a fifth consecutive title.

Instead, his battle is likely to be with Russell and the two Ferrari drivers behind him.

Ferrari brought new updates to Spa, and they seemed to have a positive impact on Leclerc, as he was able to hold off Verstappen throughout the race.

If that trend continues, then Leclerc and Hamilton will have ambitions of being the best of the rest behind the McLarens and ahead of Verstappen.

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has made a ‘battling’ Verstappen prediction for the rest of the season, and while Red Bull chiefs will want to deliver a race-winning car for the Dutchman, they will be breathing a sigh of relief that his future finally appears to be sorted.

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps quickly turned from a race into a flashpoint, sparking intense backlash from drivers and fans alike. What should have been an exciting and historic race became a showcase of frustration due to controversial decisions by the FIA regarding weather conditions and race delays. The sequence of events raised questions not only about race control decisions but also about the very soul of Formula 1 itself.

At the heart of this controversy was a downpour that made conditions at Spa extremely challenging. Visibility was near zero due to heavy rain, leading to the FIA’s decision to delay the race. That delay, initially understandable, led to a cascade of decisions that would anger teams and drivers, especially after their preparations for a wet race were seemingly disregarded. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the controversy, the reactions from those involved, and what this incident means for the future of Formula 1.

The Scene: Wet Weather, Poor Visibility

The day began with relentless rain at Spa, one of the most iconic and dangerous circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. The FIA initially followed the standard procedure in such conditions: formation lap behind the safety car, with a delay to ensure safety. While understandable at first, the situation soon escalated. The conditions weren’t just wet – they were dangerous. Walls of spray meant that drivers could barely see, and the visibility issue became the central challenge.

The initial delay made sense given the extreme weather. Safety is, of course, the FIA’s top priority, and nobody wants to see drivers racing in conditions where they cannot see the track. However, as the wait dragged on, tensions began to rise. Teams, particularly those like Red Bull, had set up their cars specifically for the wet conditions. Their rear wings, aerodynamics, and tire choices were all calibrated to make the best of the wet weather, but now they faced the reality of a changing race plan.

The Problem with the Setup

For teams like Red Bull, which had prepared meticulously for the wet conditions, the decision to delay for such an extended period was particularly frustrating. Max Verstappen’s engineer, Simon, was particularly blunt in expressing how pointless the setup now seemed. If they had known that race control’s plan was to wait for the rain to stop and the track to dry out, they would have opted for a very different car setup altogether. A significant amount of time, effort, and engineering expertise had seemingly been wasted. This moment of frustration raised larger questions about the FIA’s decision-making process.

The Issue of Visibility

While grip in wet conditions was always going to be challenging, the crux of the problem wasn’t just how much water was on the track, but rather the visibility caused by the spray. Modern Formula 1 cars, with their wide tires and aerodynamics, kick up enormous amounts of spray when driving through heavy rain. This effectively blinds drivers who are further back in the pack, making it almost impossible for them to race safely.

Yet, there were arguments that the situation wasn’t as dire as it appeared. After an hour-long delay, the cars did begin to run behind the safety car, but many felt that this could have happened much earlier. With the safety car out on track, it would have helped clear a racing line, akin to using a squeegee to push water off the surface. Had this been done sooner, the track might have been racable earlier, instead of letting the rain continue to pour down.

Drivers’ Reactions

The reactions from the drivers, especially Verstappen, were swift and candid. Verstappen called the decision to suspend the race start “silly” and suggested that a few laps under the safety car could have helped clear the water. He criticized the FIA for being overly cautious, especially when the drivers felt they were fully capable of managing the conditions. Verstappen, along with other veterans like Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, expressed frustration that their judgment and experience were being sidelined.

For these drivers, the race isn’t just about sitting behind a safety car waiting for the rain to stop; it’s about pushing boundaries and finding ways to adapt to tough situations. Their anger wasn’t just about losing out on a race – it was about having their experience and judgment dismissed. These drivers, after all, are the ones who regularly race in tough conditions and are arguably the best people to judge whether a race is safe to begin.

The FIA’s Perspective: A Focus on Safety

From the FIA’s perspective, the extreme caution was born from a deep concern for safety. Recent tragedies at Spa, such as the deaths of drivers Antoine Hubert in 2019 and Delano Van Hoff in 2023, loomed large. Spa, historically, has been a track that sees its share of danger in the wet, and the FIA’s reluctance to push forward in challenging conditions stems from these tragic events. Their responsibility is to prevent another fatality, and this, no doubt, weighs heavily on their decision-making process.

The fear of risking another life in such conditions is not a decision made lightly, and it’s easy to see why the FIA would err on the side of caution. But here’s the counterargument: modern F1 cars are highly engineered machines, designed to cope with extreme weather. Their tires are equipped to handle massive amounts of water, and the drivers are skilled professionals who train for such conditions. So, where’s the line between safety and allowing racing to take place? Should a sport known for pushing the limits of human and machine performance become sterilized to avoid risk?

The Tire Debate

One of the more complicated aspects of this debate is the tire choice. Formula 1 has two primary wet-weather tires: the intermediate and the full wets. Full wet tires are designed for soaking tracks and can shift enormous amounts of water, up to 85 liters per second per tire at full speed. So why weren’t they used more in Spa? The answer is that full wets take much longer to heat up and require stable, constant wet conditions to perform optimally. In conditions where the rain might ease off, teams might prefer intermediates to avoid the full wets not getting up to temperature.

But the full wets offer significant advantages, particularly in improving visibility by reducing spray. If used correctly, they would have likely been the better tire choice for this particular event. Pirelli, the tire supplier, may need to look into developing a full wet tire that heats up more quickly and is more adaptable to fluctuating conditions.

The Changing Essence of F1?

Historically, rain has been one of the most exciting and defining aspects of Formula 1. Some of the greatest moments in the sport have come during wet-weather races – think of Hamilton’s dramatic drive in Brazil 2008 or Michael Schumacher’s genius drive in Spain 1996. Rain was seen as a challenge that separated the greats from the rest of the field. But now, with this new caution, is rain becoming a reason not to race? Is F1’s spirit of racing being compromised in the name of safety?

Formula 1 is about more than just speed on a dry track; it’s about intelligence, adaptability, and bravery. The drivers are expected to take on risk – that’s what makes the sport so thrilling. If the FIA continues down this path of extreme caution, there’s a genuine concern that the very essence of F1 could be lost.

Looking Ahead: What Needs to Change?

So, what can be done to move forward? First and foremost, Formula 1 needs better wet-weather tires. Full wets need to be a viable option, not just a last resort. Pirelli should be tasked with developing tires that can perform across a wider range of conditions, especially in situations like those at Spa.

Beyond the tires, the FIA needs to rethink its approach. Race control should trust the judgment of the drivers more. While safety must remain the top priority, drivers are the ones in the cars, and their feedback is invaluable. Instead of resorting to extended delays and suspensions, the FIA should consider allowing more racing behind the safety car, giving drivers the opportunity to assess conditions and make real-time decisions.

The Future of Spa and F1

If the FIA continues down this cautious path, it could have real-world consequences, particularly for iconic tracks like Spa. If weather consistently leads to delays and cancellations, these tracks may no longer be seen as reliable options for hosting races, which could lead to their removal from the calendar.

Formula 1 must find the balance between safety and spectacle. If it fails to do so, it risks losing not only its historic tracks but also the unpredictable, thrilling nature of the sport that fans and drivers love. The pressure from drivers, fans, and commercial interests will likely push the FIA to reconsider its approach. If it does, the result could be a more balanced and exciting future for Formula 1 – one that embraces challenges, not just avoids them.

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The Shocking Potential Takeover of Alpine F1 by Christian Horner: A Deep Dive Into Formula 1’s Future

In the world of Formula 1, power dynamics are as crucial as the performance of the cars on the track. Teams often engage in intricate strategies that stretch far beyond their pit stops and race strategies. However, what if one of the sport’s most powerful figures, Christian Horner of Red Bull Racing, was quietly plotting a seismic shift in the sport’s landscape? A potential takeover of Alpine F1 — one of the most significant moves in F1’s modern history — could change the entire competitive balance of the sport. Let’s break down the explosive rumors and detailed sources suggesting that Christian Horner’s next play could not only define his career but also reshape Formula 1 itself.

The Initial Allegation: Christian Horner’s Alleged Hidden Takeover of Alpine F1

The core of this developing story is startling. Christian Horner, the mastermind behind Red Bull Racing’s dominance, is reportedly involved in a covert operation to acquire Alpine F1. Sources within the paddock have linked Horner to a web of financial transactions and corporate moves that strongly suggest he is orchestrating a takeover of the French team. While the idea seems outlandish at first, the growing body of evidence points to a much more intricate plot unfolding behind the scenes.

Why Alpine? The Motive Behind the Alleged Move

At first glance, the question arises: Why would Christian Horner, the team principal of one of the most successful teams in modern F1, want to invest in a struggling team like Alpine? According to insiders, the motive lies in Alpine’s ongoing financial troubles. Alpine’s parent company, the Renault Group, has reportedly been hemorrhaging money in its motorsport division and is considering selling a partial stake in Alpine to cut costs and focus on its core business — electric vehicle development. In essence, Alpine is seen as an undervalued asset ripe for a strategic acquisition.

Horner’s alleged involvement seems to be part of a well-calculated plan to buy low and build a new F1 empire. If true, this acquisition could provide Horner with an entirely new platform to exert control over a team without the internal pressures he currently faces at Red Bull. This level of autonomy — running a team free from corporate influence — is likely a tantalizing prospect for Horner, known for his highly ambitious and strategic mindset.

The Financial Trail: An Unexplained $47 Million Injection

One of the most compelling aspects of this saga is the financial evidence. Sources have reported a sudden and unexplained $47 million injection into one of Alpine’s European holding structures. These holding structures are typically used for asset management, tax purposes, and strategic investments, but the sheer size of the amount and the lack of explanation has raised significant red flags in financial circles.

What’s even more intriguing is the alleged origin of the funds. A company based in the Cayman Islands, a notorious hub for offshore financial activity, is reportedly behind the transfer. Furthermore, this company is connected to a long-time financial consultant who has reportedly been advising Christian Horner since 2013. This raises serious questions about the nature of the deal and the sophistication of the network Horner may have set up to facilitate the acquisition, all operating under a veil of extreme discretion.

Shell Corporations and Plausible Deniability

As if the financial trail wasn’t complex enough, sources also point to a network of shell corporations that are allegedly linked to Horner’s move into Alpine. These entities, which are often used to obscure ownership and avoid scrutiny, are managed by Horner’s former legal advisers. This level of strategic planning indicates a high level of premeditation and intent to shield Horner from direct involvement in the transaction.

Using family members, particularly Horner’s brother, Charles Horner, to manage key companies only adds another layer of secrecy to the deal. Charles Horner is listed as the sole director of a new holding company, VTR Capital, which received a notable $22.4 million investment in May. This, along with the use of family members, speaks to the level of trust and commitment involved in keeping this operation under wraps.

High-Level Meetings and Confidential Information

The intrigue surrounding Horner’s alleged acquisition of Alpine doesn’t stop with financial transactions. Sources have indicated that a key figure in this drama is James Peterson, a UK-based accountant who is reportedly involved in handling offshore fund transfers for several high-level F1 investments. Peterson has reportedly been seen entering Horner’s private estate multiple times in recent weeks, implying direct and ongoing communication related to the Alpine deal.

Perhaps the most telling development in this entire saga, however, involves Horner’s request for confidential information from the FIA. Sources claim that Horner has asked for detailed data regarding Alpine’s wind tunnel and power unit programs, key assets that would be critical for evaluating the team’s current and future performance. This request is seen as part of due diligence for the alleged acquisition, further indicating that Horner is deeply involved in planning a significant shift in the F1 landscape.

The Alleged “Project Violet” and Alpine’s Operational Shifts

A leaked email exchange between a Swiss bank and an anonymous client has surfaced, with the subject referred to as “Project Violet.” This code name, while cryptic, has been linked to an acquisition strategy targeting Alpine’s assets. The use of a code name like “Project Violet” speaks to the high level of secrecy and sophistication surrounding the deal. It suggests that the acquisition is not a simple transaction but rather a multi-party operation involving lawyers, advisers, and due diligence.

In parallel with the financial developments, Alpine’s operational changes also raise eyebrows. The team recently switched suppliers for their simulator hardware, choosing a firm based in Milton Keynes, the home base of Red Bull. Additionally, several new engineers with previous experience at Red Bull Technology have reportedly joined Alpine’s ranks. These shifts, when combined with the financial and strategic moves, form a compelling narrative suggesting that Red Bull’s influence over Alpine is already growing, even before any formal acquisition occurs.

The Wider Impact on Formula 1

If these allegations are true, Christian Horner’s potential takeover of Alpine could signal a monumental shift in the power structure of Formula 1. For Horner, it represents a chance to create a team under his own vision, free from the internal struggles he currently faces at Red Bull. For Alpine, it could mean a new direction and a much-needed turnaround, potentially bringing in the expertise and financial backing needed to elevate the team’s performance on the track.

This takeover would not only disrupt the internal dynamics at Alpine but could also have a profound impact on the broader F1 grid. It could shift team loyalties, alter driver contracts, and change the competitive balance in ways that we are only beginning to understand.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Formula 1?

The story of Christian Horner’s alleged move to take control of Alpine F1 is still unfolding, but the implications are already profound. If true, it could mark the beginning of a new era in Formula 1, where team principals like Horner can step into roles of total control, creating a new breed of team ownership in the sport. As always, in F1, the truth may be even more dramatic than the rumors. The coming months will likely reveal whether this is merely speculative chatter or the dawn of a new power shift in the world of motorsport. Either way, it’s a story worth keeping an eye on.

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