Lando Norris won his first F1 world championship in 2025, but a former racing driver reckons that the McLaren star still isn’t on the same level as Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

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Lando Norris won the Formula 1 drivers’ championship earlier this month.(Image: Getty Images)

Lando Norris, despite clinching his first Formula 1 world title earlier this month, has been told he is not quite up to the standard of Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen.

The McLaren star pipped four-time champion Verstappen – and teammate Oscar Piastri – at the post to secure his inaugural Drivers’ Championship in the season’s final race in Abu Dhabi.

However, ex-F1 racer Michael Bleekemolen reckons 26-year-old Norris hasn’t yet reached Verstappen’s heights. He pointed out a few mishaps during the 2025 season that cost the Brit valuable points, including colliding with Piastri in Canada and another crash in Austin, Texas.

When quizzed by RacingNews365 if Norris was a deserving 2025 champion, Bleekemolen responded: “Not if I compare him to Max Verstappen. In Canada, was it Canada? There, he just drove at the back (of Piastri).

“I definitely think driving at the back of Piastri, if I compare him to Max, was a dramatic thing. And the crash at the Circuit of the Americas, those are things that just happen. You can go into all that in great detail, but it is what it is. Then I’d say; he’s not on the level of Hamilton and [Michael] Schumacher.”

While Norris has some distance to cover to match the feats of Verstappen, Hamilton and Schumacher in F1, his 2025 world title win has certainly set the stage for him to carve out his own legacy.

Speaking about securing the world title following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Norris revealed: “I feel like I have just managed to win it the way I wanted to win it, which was not by being someone I’m not.

“Not trying to be as aggressive as Max or as forceful as other champions might have been in the past, I’m happy. I just won it my way – by being a fair driver, by trying to be an honest driver.

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Lando Norris has been told he’s not quite at the level of Max Verstappen.(Image: ATTILA KISBENEDEK, AFP via Getty Images)

“At times, could I have been more aggressive and got off the brakes and had a few people over? I certainly could have done. Is that the way I want to go racing? Is that me? It’s not.”

Norris also revealed messages of encouragement he had received from Hamilton and another ex-world champion Sebastian Vettel during the season.

“I’ve had some great words and great text messages and conversations with some incredible people, people that have won World Championships in different sports, Lewis and others like Seb,” Norris told F1.com. “A lot of people don’t know I speak to Seb about things. A lot of these people, [former MotoGP champion Casey] Stoner, who, when I needed it most, sent me that little text message and said; ‘Think of this, believe in yourself, do this, do that’, and just help me along.”

Norris believes those comments, along with the broader backing from his inner circle, as pivotal in his world title triumph over Red Bull’s Verstappen by a mere two points.

“When you win the championship by two points, I would certainly say having these moments of faith from others around me got me those two points,” Norris continued.

“And therefore, that’s why I’ve got to thank everyone around me because two points is also what you need.”

The checkered flag has fallen on the 2025 Formula 1 season, and if you are still catching your breath, you are not alone. This wasn’t just another year of racing; it was a seismic shift in the very soul of the sport. We witnessed a championship that refused to be decided until the final laps, a three-way brawl for supremacy that shattered the predictability of previous years, and a paddock that is currently vibrating with the tension of the unknown.

But beneath the celebration of a “phenomenal” season, as F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali described it, lies a darker, more urgent narrative. It is a story of heavy ultimatums delivered to the sport’s most historic team, a redefining of what a modern champion looks like, and a massive American shadow looming over the grid. The chaos isn’t over just because the engines have stopped; in fact, the real storm is just beginning.

The Death of Predictability

For years, Formula 1 fans fought a battle against boredom. We tuned in hoping for a fight but often settled for a procession. That era is officially dead. As Domenicali recently noted with poorly hidden satisfaction, this season was a quiet reminder of why F1 is the pinnacle of motorsport. We didn’t just have a winner; we had a war.

From the moment the summer break ended, the momentum swung violently like a pendulum. One week, Oscar Piastri looked like the untouchable future of the sport, driving with a maturity that belied his age. The next, Lando Norris was thrust into the title conversation, forcing us to rethink the standings. And through it all, Max Verstappen remained the inevitable force, reminding the world that he is never truly out of the fight.

This constant evolution kept fans glued to their screens. There was no script. There was no foregone conclusion. This unpredictability is exactly what Domenicali and the commercial partners have been desperate for. It pulls in the casual viewer, the person who never cared about tire compounds or DRS zones but understands the universal language of tension. The sport feels alive in a way that goes beyond lap times. It’s growing, it’s evolving, and it’s dragging everyone into the deep end of the excitement.

The Lando Effect: A New Kind of Hero

Amidst this chaos, a new archetype of the F1 superstar has emerged, and its face is Lando Norris. When Domenicali speaks about the McLaren driver, he isn’t just talking about lap times or overtakes; he is describing the future image of Formula 1.

For decades, the sport was built on mystery. Champions were often distant, god-like figures—Lauda’s calculated coldness, Senna’s intense spirituality, Schumacher’s robotic perfection. They were admired, but they weren’t always understood. Lando Norris represents the antithesis of that legacy. He is the champion of the “always online” generation. He is accessible, vulnerable, and unapologetically human.

Domenicali’s fascination with Norris centers on one word: positivity. But this isn’t a marketing slogan; it’s a shift in responsibility. In a world where millions of young fans dissect every move on social media, Lando’s ability to keep smiling, to handle crushing criticism with openness, and to show genuine emotion is a superpower. He represents a break from the “ice man” persona. He laughs, he jokes, he admits when he’s struggling mentally, and then he puts his visor down and drives like a demon.

This signals a wider shift in the sport’s philosophy. F1 is moving from a sport of distance to a sport of connection. Fans no longer just want to see who wins; they want to know who the driver is. Lando’s legacy, potentially different from the ruthless dominance of the past, is built on authenticity. He is proving that you don’t have to be a machine to be a champion.

The Ultimatum: “Stop Crying, Ferrari”

While Lando represents the bright future, the situation at Maranello is far more complex and fraught with tension. As we head toward the massive regulation changes of 2026, the spotlight on Ferrari is burning hotter than ever. And here, the tone of the conversation changes drastically.

Domenicali, a man who knows the inner workings of Ferrari intimately, has offered a piece of advice that sounds more like a warning: Stop crying.

It is a brutal assessment, but a necessary one. For too long, Ferrari has been synonymous with emotional volatility. When things go wrong, there is panic. When things go right, there is hysteria. Domenicali’s message is that this cycle must end. Ferrari doesn’t need more drama; they need a plan. They need to stop mourning their failures and start executing a strategy for the future.

This is where the arrival of Lewis Hamilton becomes the most critical storyline in the sport. The image of “Lewis smiling again in red” is being floated not just as a romantic notion, but as a barometer for the team’s health. Can Ferrari create an environment where a seven-time world champion can thrive, or will the weight of the “Scuderia pressure cooker” crush the joy out of him?

Domenicali seems convinced that there is a shared vision between Team Principal Fred Vasseur, Charles Leclerc, and Hamilton. This unity is crucial because Ferrari’s historic enemy hasn’t been a lack of speed—it’s been a lack of clarity. When the direction is lost, confidence collapses.

The 2026 regulations act as a massive reset button. It is a terrifying precipice. Nobody knows who will nail the new rules. It could be the start of a new Ferrari dynasty, or it could expose the same old weaknesses. The “unknown” is the scariest opponent Ferrari faces. They cannot afford to wait and see. They have to react with intelligence, not emotion. The “Stop Crying” mantra is the only way forward. If they panic now, the Hamilton era could be over before it truly begins.

The American Invasion: Cadillac and the Cultural Shift

While Ferrari wrestles with its ghosts, Formula 1 as a business is aggressively looking forward, specifically to the West. The entry of Cadillac is not just another team joining the grid; it is a symbol of F1’s conquest of the American market.

Domenicali is clear: this is a serious game. Cadillac isn’t here to make up the numbers. Stepping into F1 without preparation is a death sentence for credibility, and the American giant knows it. But what makes this move fascinating is the strategy. Launching a livery during the Super Bowl? That isn’t about appealing to the hardcore petrolhead in Silverstone; it’s about cultural relevance. It’s about putting the F1 brand in front of millions who may never watch a Grand Prix but will instantly recognize the badge.

This is the new F1. It’s a sport that understands it is also an entertainment juggernaut. The success of the recent F1 movie projects proves that the audience is there if the storytelling is authentic. Cadillac doesn’t need to win their first race to be successful; they need to show professionalism, identity, and that they belong.

The Future is Now

As we look toward the horizon, the landscape of Formula 1 is unrecognizable from where it was just a few years ago. We have new tracks confirmed, like the street circuit in Madrid, and whispers of more projects quietly in motion. The goal isn’t just “more”—it’s “better.” Better energy, stronger connections, and a grid that feels competitive from P1 to P20.

The 2025 season gave us a taste of perfection, but it also set the stage for the chaos to come. We have a new generation of relatable heroes led by Lando Norris. We have the sleeping giant of Ferrari trying to wake up before the nightmare of 2026 consumes them. We have Lewis Hamilton stepping into the red unknown. And we have Cadillac crashing the party with American swagger.

The paddock has to stay sharp. The teams are on edge. And for us fans? We are the winners. The story isn’t written yet, and that is exactly how it should be. Formula 1 is chaotic, it is brutal, and it is absolutely unmissable. Buckle up. The real race has only just begun.

The Formula 1 paddock is rarely quiet, even in the depths of winter. But as the sport barrels toward the seismic regulatory shift of 2026, the usual hum of development has been replaced by the deafening roar of panic, ambition, and high-stakes gambling. Reports emerging from Maranello, Silverstone, and Enstone paint a picture of a sport on the brink of chaos, with teams scrambling to master completely new physics, billionaire power plays reshaping the grid, and technical secrets leaking that could decide the championship before a single wheel turns.

The 2026 regulations were promised to be a reset—a cleaner, greener, and more competitive future for the sport. Instead, they have unleashed a technical war where weight is the enemy, reliability is a myth, and innovation is bordering on madness. From Ferrari’s unprecedented engine metallurgy to Aston Martin’s reported failures to even pass basic safety tests, the “chaos behind the scenes” is no longer just a rumor; it is the defining story of the next era of Formula 1.

The Weight Crisis: F1’s Heavy New Reality

The most immediate and alarming headline is a simple, brutal fact: Every single 2026 car is currently overweight.

According to leaked reports from within the engineering departments, the new regulations, which demand a 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, have created a physics problem that teams are struggling to solve. The battery packs required to deliver the massive 350kW electrical boost are significantly heavier than their predecessors. When combined with the new chassis requirements, teams are finding it nearly impossible to hit the FIA’s minimum weight target.

This isn’t just a matter of shedding a few grams of paint or using lighter screws. We are talking about substantial deficits that affect handling, tire wear, and lap time. It echoes the struggles of 2022, where teams like Red Bull and Mercedes arrived with cars well over the limit, forcing them into expensive and desperate weight-saving programs. But for 2026, the challenge is magnified by the complexity of the power units. The panic is real, and it is hitting some teams harder than others.

Aston Martin: A Billion-Dollar Nightmare?

Nowhere is the alarm ringing louder than at Aston Martin. The Silverstone-based outfit, funded by Lawrence Stroll’s limitless ambition and bolstered by the arrival of design genius Adrian Newey, was supposed to be the “superteam” of 2026. However, reliable sources indicate the team is “significantly behind the curve.”

Reports suggest that Aston Martin has not yet passed the mandatory FIA crash tests for its 2026 chassis—a critical milestone that allows teams to proceed with final manufacturing. Even more concerning are whispers that the team has not even mounted the engine into the chassis yet, a delay that suggests fundamental integration issues.

For a team that has poached top talent like Enrico Cardile from Ferrari to work alongside Newey, these delays are catastrophic. The 2026 crash tests are more rigorous than ever, demanding improved side-impact safety, which adds structure—and therefore weight—to the car. If Aston Martin is failing these tests, they must reinforce the chassis, adding even more weight to a car that is likely already heavy.

Adrian Newey recently spoke about his “fear of failure” driving him, but one has to wonder if that fear is now becoming a reality. With the factory shutting down for the mandatory winter break, the team is losing precious days. While Red Bull proved in the past that failing a crash test isn’t a death sentence, the combination of being overweight, failing safety checks, and lagging in integration is the perfect storm for a difficult season opener.

Ferrari’s “Steel” Heart: A Stroke of Genius or Madness?

While Aston Martin struggles with the chassis, Ferrari has gone rogue with its engine. In a move that has stunned the paddock, insiders have confirmed that the Scuderia has approved a steel alloy cylinder head for its 2026 power unit.

In modern Formula 1, aluminum is the gold standard for engines—it is light, predictable, and sufficient for current power loads. Steel is heavy. In a sport where engineers would sell their grandmothers to save 10 grams, voluntarily adding kilos to the engine seems insane. But Ferrari’s engineers, led by Enrico Gualtieri, are playing a deeper game.

The new regulations require engines to run on 100% sustainable fuels, which behave differently under combustion. To extract maximum power, Ferrari wants to run the engine at “unprecedented” combustion pressures and temperatures. Aluminum would simply melt or crack under these extreme loads. The new steel alloy, reinforced with copper and ceramics, is virtually indestructible.

The gamble is simple: The steel engine is heavier, yes. But it is so strong that Ferrari can push the power output far beyond what an aluminum engine can survive. To compensate for the added weight, Ferrari has designed a radical “compact” packaging system. The battery is smaller and lighter, and the radiators—the “radiating masses”—have been shrunk down significantly.

This allows the aerodynamicists to wrap the bodywork incredibly tight around the engine, reducing drag and improving top speed. It is a holistic trade-off: a heavier, bomb-proof engine heart that allows for a sleeker, faster body. If it works, Ferrari will have a power unit that can run harder and longer than anyone else. If it fails, they will have a heavy, slow tractor. It is the kind of romantic, high-risk engineering that Ferrari is famous for, and it has the Tifosi holding their breath.

Mercedes and the “Compression Trick”

Not to be outdone, Mercedes is rumored to have its own secret weapon. Whispers in the pit lane suggest the Silver Arrows have developed a variable compression system, a “trick” that allows them to alter the compression ratio of the engine dynamically.

If true, this would be a game-changer worth up to 0.25 seconds per lap—a massive margin in F1. This technology would allow the engine to be efficient when cruising and explosive when attacking, effectively giving Mercedes the best of both worlds. Rival teams are already suspicious, calling it “smoke and mirrors” to distract from their own struggles, but given Mercedes’ history of mastering new engine eras (remember 2014?), no one is dismissing the threat.

James Vowles of Williams, a Mercedes customer, has downplayed the rumors, but the anxiety from Red Bull and Ferrari is palpable. If Mercedes has found a legal way to vary compression, they could dominate the early phase of the 2026 regulations just as they did a decade ago.

Horner’s £665 Million Power Play

While the engineers fight over steel and aluminum, the biggest battle is happening in the boardroom. Christian Horner, the man who built the Red Bull dynasty, is reportedly plotting a sensational return to the sport—not as an employee, but as an owner.

Dutch media and German outlets have corroborated reports that Horner is leading a consortium to buy a controlling stake in the Alpine F1 Team. The offer? A staggering £665 million ($840 million) to buy out the shares currently held by Otro Capital (the group involving Ryan Reynolds and other celebrities) and potentially more from Renault Group.

Horner’s exit from Red Bull was messy, involving power struggles and scandal. Now, he wants what he never had at Red Bull: total control. By owning a stake, he effectively becomes unsackable. The plan involves teaming up with his old friend—and controversial figure—Flavio Briatore, who is currently advising Alpine.

However, there is a catch. Horner is reportedly bound by a “gardening leave” clause in his Red Bull exit package that bans him from working for a rival team until April 2026. This means he could buy the team but would be forced to watch the first few races of the new era from his sofa.

The prospect of Horner and Briatore running Alpine—a team currently in disarray, using Mercedes engines from 2026—is a storyline straight out of a soap opera. It would pit Horner directly against his old nemesis Toto Wolff (as a customer!) and his former team Red Bull. For Alpine, a team that has been a revolving door of management failures, Horner’s ruthless efficiency might be exactly what they need, even if it comes with a heavy dose of controversy.

Red Bull’s Quiet Confidence?

Amidst the noise, Red Bull is surprisingly optimistic. Despite reports of delays in their own combustion engine development, the team insists that the arrival of 150 Honda technicians and staff from Mercedes has turned the tide. They admit to being behind on the combustion side but claim their electrical systems and packaging are ahead of schedule.

However, a cryptic social media move by Carlos Sainz Sr.—liking a tweet about Red Bull looking “pretty good”—has fueled speculation. Does the rally legend know something we don’t? Or is it just more smoke in a hall of mirrors?

The Calm Before the Storm

As the factories shut down for the winter break, the silence is deceptive. Inside the servers and simulation rooms, the war is already raging. Ferrari is betting on steel physics; Mercedes is betting on combustion tricks; Aston Martin is fighting to build a car that is safe to drive; and Christian Horner is fighting to buy his way back onto the grid.

2026 was supposed to be a fresh start. Instead, it is shaping up to be a survival of the fittest. The cars are overweight, the engines are experimental, and the politics are as vicious as ever. When the covers finally come off these machines, we won’t just be looking at race cars; we’ll be looking at the results of the biggest gambles in motorsport history.

Buckle up. The chaos has only just begun.

It’s the 12-year anniversary of Michael Schumacher’s tragic skiing accident

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Mick Schumacher paid tribute to his legendary father on social media(Image: Getty Images)

Mick Schumacher posted a photo of his father Michael in a heartwarming tribute to the F1 icon on his birthday. It was on Schumacher’s 55th birthday last January that his son, Mick, and daughter, Gina, took to social media to show their love for him.

The seven-time world champion, now 56, hasn’t been seen in public since his life-altering skiing accident 12 years ago in December 2013. Schumacher suffered severe head trauma after hitting his head on a rock in the French Alps and was subsequently placed in a medically induced coma.

Updates on his health since have been scarce with his wife Corinna staunchly protecting him and the privacy of their family. However, it is understood that the German great requires constant care from his wife and medical professionals.

Despite the lack of information surrounding Schumacher’s state, it was last year when he was showered with love on social media from his two children. Mick, who formerly raced in F1 for two years with Haas and now competes in the IndyCar Series, posted a photo of himself as a child with his father on Instagram.

In the snap, they were both wearing racing helmet with Mick captioning the post with the message: “Happy birthday to the best Dad ever. Love you!” Gina, Schumacher’s first-born, also took to the platform to post a picture of herself, her brother and their father smiling with her caption reading: “Happy Birthday Papa! throwback to one of many of our adventures.”

At the height of his legendary F1 career, Schumacher won a record five consecutive titles with Ferrari from 2000 to 2004. The team’s former boss Jean Todt built a close relationship with the German during their time working together and Todt, 79, is one of very few select individuals allowed to visit him.

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The former Haas driver paid tribute to his father with the throwback post(Image: mickschumacher / Instagram)

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Corinna Schumacher has remained steadfast in her mission to keep her husband’s privacy intact(Image: Pool Interagences, Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Speaking recently about his Schumacher’s condition in an interview with Italian outlet La Repubblica, the Frenchman said: “The family has decided not to answer the question [about Schumacher’s health], a choice that I respect.

“I see him regularly and with affection, him and his family. Our bond goes beyond the past work. It is part of my life which today is very far from Formula 1.” In 2023, Todt revealed that the German is “no longer” the same man that dominated the race track in F1.

“Michael is here, so I don’t miss him,” Todt said. “He is different and is wonderfully guided by his wife and children who protect him. His life is different now and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him. That’s all there is to say.

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Gina Schumacher posted this photo to her Instagram with her dad Michael and brother Mick(Image: Instagram/Gina Schumacher)

“Unfortunately, fate struck him ten years ago. He is no longer the Michael we knew in Formula 1.” Todt is reportedly one of nine people allowed to see Schumacher, with that short list being controlled by Corinna.

Richard Hopkins, formerly head of operations at Red Bull, struck up a friendship with Schumacher during their careers as the Brit detailed the visiting arrangements set by Corinna to see the racing icon in his Lake Geneva home.

Speaking to SPORTbible, Hopkins said: “I think it’s fairly clear. There are only two, three, four people that we know of. There are probably others. Michael had friendships with people who weren’t owners of Formula One teams or racing drivers.

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It’s been 12 years since his tragic skiing accident(Image: Formula 1 / Netflix)

“So I’m sure there are people who probably see him that we just don’t know about, because we don’t know their names. But there are fairly strict rules, and we don’t talk about those rules.

“I’m not going to try and visit Michael, because I know that’s not going to happen, and I’m one of thousands in that position of knowing it’s not possible. If you’re Jean Todt, your friendship is at the point where that’s okay. I don’t think there’s a written rule or a list of names. It’s just one of those known things.”

British vigilantes slash small migrant boats on French coastline

Britons have been filming themselves travelling to beaches in France and ‘destroying’ small boats – gaining thousands of views in the process

Sanya Burgess is an award-winning journalist whose investigations have included revealing Deliveroo was not paying the living wage to all riders, despite the company’s pledge to do so. She has also tracked disinformation and far right hate speech in the UK during the Southport riots, conspiracy theories about the attempted shooting of Donald Trump and revealed that Elon Musk was paying some of Tommy Robinson’s legal fees. She has also worked on issues relating to Big Tech and underage gambling, as well as uncovering war crimes and human rights abuses in Iran, Myanmar and the UAE – including the ‘hostage’ tapes of the detained Dubai Princess Latifa.
British vigilantes who spearheaded efforts to fly England flags across the country have launched a new anti-migrant protest – attempting to block illegal Channel crossings.

Using the term “Operation Stop The Boats”, members of the group have been filming themselves slashing small boats before they are used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France.

Posts on social media show members calling for other British men to join them in France, including making a direct appeal to football hooligans, saying “we need to make a stand”.

In one video message shared this week by a member of the Raise the Colours group – the grassroots movement that has seen flags fixed to lampposts, motorway bridges and roundabouts across England – two men are seen evoking military language and the spirit of the British fight against the Nazis in the Second World War.

Claiming to be recording from the northern French coast, one said: “Just like in the 1940s, we must take a stand, and it starts with the men of England and Britain.”

Making an appeal to “firms” – a phrase that refers to football hooligan groups – the other man added: “Our country is doing nothing. Weak government, weaker borders.

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”
The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
The Government is under pressure to tackle the issue of migration amid a record number of asylum applications, surging small boat crossings and protests at hotels housing asylum seekers.

On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out a package of reforms to asylum policies aimed at tackling illegal migration, telling MPs the current situation is “out of control and unfair”.

The latest videos shared by those linked to the Raise the Colours group have separately been referred to as “Operation Overlord”.

Earlier clips showed two men saying they were taking matters of illegal migration into their own hands and filming themselves stamping on and smashing a small boat’s engine.

In the clips, they refer to themselves as “patriots” and make a number of claims without evidence, such as that they are stopping “rapists and murderers” from “coming to a town near you”.
One video shared by the group (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/nstagram)
The flag-raising group, who have a combined 100,000 followers on X and Instagram, also posted a plea on X for donations last week, writing that they are: “STOPPING The Boats, whether the migrants or government like it or not!”

Two videos from the group have recently been shared to the 1.7 million X followers of Tommy Robinson. The far-right figure and former leader of the English Defence League, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has previously been accused of mobilising football hooligan firms in an attempt to launch anti-Muslim rallies across the country.

Separately, French media reports that the Dunkirk Public Prosecutor’s office has opened a preliminary investigation into “aggravated violence” against migrants by suspected British far-right figures.

One of the details being examined by the French prosecutor is the claim that in September, four men waving British and UK flags verbally and physically attacked migrants on the French coast. It is alleged that they told the migrants they were not welcome in England and proceeded to steal some of their belongings.

The men are not the first anti-migrant figures to travel to France in a bid to take matters into their own hands.

In September, Ukip, Nigel Farage’s former political party, posted a video to their X account showing what appeared to be sleeping migrants in France being woken by people flashing strobe lights in their faces and shouting at them.

Nick Tenconi, Ukip’s current leader, also posted a video captioned: “In Calais hunting for illegal invaders trying to cross into Britain.”

The night before the biggest performance of his life, George Clarke wasn’t thinking about trophies, scores or headlines. He was trying — and failing — to hold himself together.

The 26-year-old finalist broke down during a deeply moving appearance on It Takes Two, just hours before the Strictly Come Dancing grand final. Sitting alongside professional partner Alexis Warr, George became visibly overwhelmed after producers played messages from his family — a moment that stripped away any remaining sense of showbiz polish.

Unable to speak, he wiped away tears and quietly apologised. “Sorry… this is awful of me,” he said, his voice breaking — not from nerves, but from the weight of everything the journey has carried.

George admitted he has deliberately avoided thinking about the final, explaining that the scale of the moment has triggered a sense of imposter syndrome. For him, reaching this point already feels surreal — and he’s openly worried about the emotional crash that may come once the Strictly bubble bursts.

Viewers felt it instantly. Social media flooded with raw reactions as fans confessed they were crying along with him, praising his honesty, humility and vulnerability. “I’m emotional for George,” one wrote. Another added: “Please don’t cry — I can’t cope.” A third summed it up simply: “He is so loved.”

While bookmakers have tipped Karen Carney as the likely winner, George’s impact has long surpassed odds and leaderboards. His journey has been fuelled not by ambition, but by something far more personal: a promise to make his mother proud.

That devotion became unmistakable in week eight, when George performed an emotional rhumba dedicated to his mum, Nicky, who is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The routine — described by many as a “love letter in motion” — reduced George and his family to tears and marked the moment the wider Strictly audience truly embraced him.

Speaking candidly, George has never hidden how deeply his mother’s diagnosis has affected him. He admits her illness now dominates family life, describing her as someone who has endured far more than she ever deserved. And this isn’t the first time she’s fought her way back — when George was just 16, she survived encephalitis after suffering a seizure, an experience that left him traumatised but in awe of her resilience.

Despite his growing fame, George’s path to the final has been anything but conventional. With no professional dance background, friends say his only previous dancing took place at university socials. That lack of training has only heightened admiration for his progress — especially as fellow finalists have faced criticism for their prior stage or performance experience.

Outside the ballroom, George boasts a vast online following — 2.4 million on TikTok and close to a million across Instagram and YouTube — and Strictly insiders believe his appeal to younger audiences could mark a turning point for the long-running show. But those closest to him say his grounded nature comes from upbringing, not algorithms.

Raised in Bristol, privately educated and university-trained, George has often chosen effort over shortcuts — even with a father in a senior role at Aardman Animations. Supporting him every step of the way is his girlfriend, model Yasmin Bennett, whom George credits with believing in him “more than I ever believed in myself.”

As for what comes next, industry whispers suggest this may only be the beginning. New television opportunities are already being discussed, and many believe George is on the cusp of becoming a breakout star beyond social media.

But on this night, none of that mattered.

Because whether or not he lifts the Glitterball, George Clarke has already won something far more meaningful — the hearts of the public, and the pride of the woman whose courage inspired every step he took on the Strictly dancefloor.

Tess Daly appeared on The One Show ahead of her Strictly exit

Strictly Come Dancing star Tess Daly had to fight tears after receiving a surprise message from her husband Vernon Kay just days before her exit from the BBC dancing competition.

On Saturday night (December 20) Tess and Claudia Winkleman will mark their final time presenting the main Strictly show together after they announced their departures in October. No replacement for the duo have been revealed as the likes of Holly Willoughby, Bradley Walsh and Alison Hammond have been linked to the roles.

Announcing their exit news, Tess and Claudia said in a joint statement at the time: “We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.

“We will have the greatest rest of this amazing series and we just want to say an enormous thank you to the BBC and to every single person who works on the show. They’re the most brilliant team and we’ll miss them every day. We will cry when we say the last ‘keep dancing’ but we will continue to say it to each other. Just possibly in tracksuit bottoms at home while holding some pizza.”

Big explosion at nursing home leaves two dead as residents ‘trapped inside’

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However, Tess and Claudia’s final Strictly outing will arrive on Christmas Day for the annual pre-recorded Christmas special. Taking part on it this year is Gogglebox’s Scarlett Moffatt, All Saints singer Melanie Blatt, Gladiator Jodie Ounsley, EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey, comedian Babatunde Aléshé and Westlife’s Brian McFadden.

On Wednesday evening (December 17), Tess appeared on The One Show to speak to Alex Jones and Clara Amfo about how she feels to be leaving the programme she’s been a part of since its debut year all the way back in 2004, when she was joined by the late Bruce Forsyth

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Vernon Kay paid tribute to his wife Tess Daly on The One Show

“It was so special, I was pinching myself to even be in the same room with him, I could barely make eye contact, I was so intimidated by this legend that I grew up watching on telly. To work with him was so special because he was generous.

“He’d share his stories and teach me about live television, he’d say ‘don’t worry darling, they’ll forgive you, it’s live telly, just embrace it’. He was just so kind, wise and wonderful to work with,” she noted.

Having her say on Claudia, Tess stated: “We’re on the Christmas Day show, but we pre-recorded it. We’ll both be thinking about that moment [the final link]. It can be mayhem when you’re finding out who’s the winner…

“It’s about them, but if I catch Claudia’s eye I might go because it’s the last time. I love to bits and we had the best time. It’s just been wonderful.”

Alex then revealed that Claudia sent in a special message for Tess, in it she said: “What do I love most about working with you, everything. We laugh, you just have my back and I’m so lucky I got to work on the best Saturday night show with you. You’re my friend for life. I will be less orange, but we will still be together.”

Already feeling emotional by Claudia’s video, Alex went on to reveal that Tess’ husband Vernon had also sent in a message. Prior to playing it, Alex teased that he was ‘very hard to track down’.

“21 years as the host of Strictly Come Dancing. It’s been quite the ride. We started off with Sir Bruce Forsyth and we finished with Claudia Winkleman MBE. It’s given us so much joy and two kids, let’s not forget that.

“Congratulations on everything you’ve done on the show. You really have embedded yourself in the hearts of the nation. There have been some spectacular moments, you have been an absolute joy. It does genuinely feel like we’re losing a very, very close friend. I have no doubt that you and I will keep dancing,” Vernon said.

Becoming teary-eyed, Tess proceeded to explain how her and Vernon’s relationship has changed in the two decades she’s hosted Strictly. Their first child Phoebe was born in 2004, the year Strictly started, while Amber was welcomed into the world in 2009.

“It’s all they’ve known their whole life. It has been like another family, over a third of the year they’ve lost me to Strictly for the weekend. They haven’t minded because they’ve loved the show and they feel like they’re a part of it…

“It will be different for them too, it’s all they’ve ever known. They’re excited to come along and see it, it will be special having them there. It will be a full circle moment for me because I was pregnant in series one and here we are in the final together. If I catch Phoebe’s eye, I’m going to go. It will be quite emotional because they’ve been part of it,” she said.

By the sofa where Britain first fell in love with them, Steve Sheehan now sits with a very different weight in his heart.

For years, he and his wife Sue have been the easy laughter of Gogglebox — the couple whose warmth made millions feel like family. But behind the familiar armchairs and quick jokes, Steve has been fighting a battle no camera ever captured.

The moment Sue’s smile began to fade, everything changed.

“When Bell’s palsy arrived, it didn’t knock politely,” Steve says quietly. “It just took a part of her away overnight. The woman who never stopped smiling suddenly couldn’t recognise herself in the mirror. And there was nothing I could do to fix it.”

Except stay.

Steve doesn’t talk about heroics. He talks about mornings. About learning new routines, brushing past his own fear so Sue wouldn’t see it in his eyes. About sitting in hospital waiting rooms pretending to read leaflets he’d already memorised, just so she wouldn’t feel watched or pitied.

“There were days she’d say, ‘I don’t look like me anymore,’” he recalls. “And all I could think was, how do I make her feel beautiful when she can’t see it herself?”

So he did the only thing he knew how to do.

He made tea she didn’t ask for. He cracked the same tired jokes he’s told for decades. He held her face gently when she didn’t want to look in the mirror — not to make her change, but to remind her that the woman he married was still right there.

“I wasn’t scared of the illness,” Steve admits. “I was scared of her feeling alone in it.”

Friends say Steve became Sue’s shadow — driving her to appointments, keeping the house light when the days were heavy, pretending recovery was a series of tiny wins rather than a long road he couldn’t see the end of.

But Steve never frames it as sacrifice.

“This is marriage,” he shrugs. “It’s not the vows. It’s the Tuesday mornings when your heart is breaking and you still have to make someone laugh.”

Now, as Sue takes each day as it comes, Steve remains on the same sofa, same seat, same promise.

“I don’t need her to be better tomorrow,” he says softly. “I just need her to know she’s not walking through this by herself. If I can be the one thing that doesn’t change for her, then I’ve done my job.”

In a world obsessed with grand gestures, Steve Sheehan’s love is quieter than most.

But it’s also unbreakable.

Lorraine Kelly’s Husband Subtly Confirms Separation After Uncovering a Hidden Secret

Lorraine Kelly, the beloved television presenter, has recently been at the center of a personal storm as her husband has subtly confirmed that the couple has separated. This revelation comes shortly after he discovered a secret that Lorraine had been keeping from him, which reportedly changed his perception of the woman he thought he knew. Fans and followers of the TV star have been left shocked by the news, eager to understand the circumstances surrounding this unexpected development.

The Subtle Confirmation of Separation

While neither Lorraine Kelly nor her husband has made a formal public statement, subtle hints and carefully worded comments have led to widespread speculation about the status of their marriage. Lorraine’s husband, in particular, has been noticeably reserved in recent interviews and social media posts, indirectly acknowledging the couple’s separation. His remarks suggest a sense of betrayal and disappointment, indicating that the secret he uncovered had a profound impact on their relationship.

This subtle confirmation has sparked a wave of interest among fans and media outlets alike. Lorraine Kelly, known for her warm and approachable personality, has always maintained a private personal life, making this revelation all the more surprising. The nature of the secret remains undisclosed, but the emotional weight it carries is evident in her husband’s statements.

What Could the Secret Be?

Speculation about the secret Lorraine Kelly was hiding has been rampant since the news broke. While no concrete details have been revealed, insiders suggest that it could relate to personal or family matters that Lorraine chose to keep private. Given her public image and the trust she has built with her audience, this hidden aspect of her life has understandably caused a stir.

Experts on  celebrity relationships note that secrets, especially those uncovered unexpectedly, can significantly strain even the strongest marriages. The feeling of discovering something unknown about a partner often leads to a reassessment of the relationship’s foundation. Lorraine Kelly’s husband’s comment, “That’s not the woman I thought I knew,” encapsulates this sense of disillusionment.

The Impact on Lorraine Kelly’s Career and Public Image

Despite the personal challenges, Lorraine Kelly continues to maintain her professional commitments with grace and resilience. Her ability to separate her private life from her public persona has been commendable, allowing her to remain a trusted figure in the media industry. However, the revelation of her separation and the secret she kept may influence public perception moving forward.

In the world of celebrity, personal matters often intertwine with professional reputations. Lorraine’s fans have expressed support and empathy, hoping she finds peace and clarity during this difficult time. The situation also highlights the pressures public figures face in balancing transparency with privacy.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Lorraine Kelly and Her Husband

As Lorraine Kelly and her husband navigate this new chapter, the focus remains on healing and understanding. Separation, while challenging, can also be an opportunity for growth and reflection. Both parties are likely to prioritize their well-being and personal happiness as they move forward separately.

For fans and followers, it is important to respect their privacy and allow them the space to manage their personal affairs without undue speculation. Lorraine Kelly’s strength and professionalism suggest that she will continue to thrive, both personally and professionally, despite this setback.

Support and Privacy: The Balance Fans Should Maintain

In times like these, public figures benefit greatly from the support of their audience. Offering empathy rather than judgment can make a significant difference. Lorraine Kelly’s journey reminds us that behind the glamour and fame, celebrities face real-life challenges just like anyone else.

Respecting boundaries and avoiding intrusive speculation helps maintain a healthy environment for both Lorraine and her family. Fans can continue to celebrate her achievements and contributions to the media while honoring her need for privacy.

Conclusion

Lorraine Kelly’s husband’s subtle confirmation of their separation following the discovery of a secret she had been hiding marks a poignant moment in the couple’s lives. While the details remain private, the impact on their relationship is clear. As Lorraine Kelly moves forward, her resilience and professionalism will undoubtedly guide her through this difficult period. Fans are encouraged to support her with kindness and respect for her privacy. Stay tuned for further updates on Lorraine Kelly’s personal and professional journey. If you want to stay informed about the latest celebrity news and personal stories, subscribe to our newsletter today!

Introduction:

In the world of live television, unexpected moments are inevitable. But few incidents have ever unfolded with the raw intensity of the now-infamous confrontation between Sir Cliff Richard and Loose Women host Denise Welch—a moment that turned a routine promotional interview into a televised flashpoint that viewers would replay and analyze for days.

When Cliff Richard stepped onto the set that morning, he carried with him the grace and experience earned over six decades in the spotlight. The audience welcomed him warmly. The atmosphere felt familiar—bright lights, friendly faces, the usual blend of casual chatter and anticipation. For Cliff, this was simply another stop on a press tour he had navigated effortlessly for years.

Yet from the moment he took his seat, something felt off. Denise Welch greeted him with a smile that never fully softened, and an unmistakable tension hung in the air. Still, Cliff remained poised, ready to discuss his new album, his upcoming tour, and the music that continued to inspire audiences around the world.

The conversation began smoothly. Cliff spoke passionately about his creative process, the stories behind the songs, the joy he still found in performing. But the tone shifted abruptly when Denise interrupted him mid-sentence with a question that stunned both the studio and the viewers at home: “Who exactly is still listening to this kind of music? Surely your audience has long moved on.”

A hush fell over the room. Cliff—the consummate professional—responded with calm dignity, explaining that his concerts still sold out, his fans remained loyal, and music, no matter the decade, has lasting value. But Denise pressed on, her questions turning colder, her tone edging from provocative into personal. She suggested his moment had passed, dismissed his career longevity, and implied he clung to a bygone era.

With each exchange, the tension grew sharper. Panelists shifted uncomfortably. The audience recoiled. Yet Cliff remained composed, meeting disrespect with steadiness. Only when it became clear that the conversation had veered into hostility did he reach his limit.

Removing his microphone with quiet resolve, he stood. “A conversation requires mutual respect,” he said, his voice unwavering. “And you’ve made it clear you have none for me.” Moments later, he walked off the set—leaving behind a stunned audience, scrambling producers, and a host forced to confront the consequences of her own words.

The fallout was immediate. Clips flooded social media. Thousands weighed in. Many praised Cliff for his grace under pressure, applauding his refusal to tolerate disrespect masquerading as honesty. Others questioned the growing trend of aggressive interviewing—when “being real” crosses the line into cruelty.

In the end, Cliff Richard didn’t raise his voice. He didn’t retaliate. He simply walked away—a reminder that dignity is sometimes the strongest response of all. And in doing so, he turned a 34-second insult into a powerful lesson in respect, professionalism, and the enduring strength of character.