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The 2025 Formula 1 season hasn’t even begun, but the political machinations for the revolutionary 2026 era are already reaching a boiling point. In a sport where engineering genius is often indistinguishable from rule-bending, a new storm has erupted in the paddock. From allegations of a Mercedes engine “magic trick” to shocking admissions from Red Bull’s future partner Ford, and a driver ranking list that has left fans baffled, the drama is relentless. Here is a deep dive into the chaos currently engulfing the pinnacle of motorsport.

The Mercedes “Compression Trick”: Genius or Illegal?

The loudest whispers in the paddock concern the 2026 power unit regulations. Rumors have surfaced that Mercedes High Performance Powertrains has discovered a loophole involving a “compression trick.” This innovation reportedly allows their engine to generate significantly higher performance figures by manipulating compression ratios in a way that skirts the edges of the FIA’s testing protocols.

According to reports, rival manufacturers—specifically Ferrari, Honda, and newcomer Audi—are up in arms. They are reportedly preparing to protest this technology, not necessarily to ban it immediately, but to have it outlawed midway through the 2026 season. This calculated political move would force Mercedes into a brutal dilemma: push ahead with a design that might become illegal after six races, or abandon their advantage now to develop a safer, more conventional compliant engine.

However, James Vowles, the Team Principal of Williams and a former Mercedes strategy chief, has come out swinging in defense of his engine supplier. Vowles dismissed the rumors as a fabricated narrative created by a rival team that is terrified of its own lack of performance.

“This is just a narrative that has been made up by a rival that realizes their power unit is not going to be good enough,” Vowles suggested. His implication is clear: the noise isn’t about Mercedes cheating; it’s about other manufacturers realizing they are already behind. Vowles argues that no one truly knows the pecking order yet, and this “protest” is merely a tactic to force the FIA to scrutinize Mercedes while distracting from others’ shortcomings. Is Vowles simply a loyal customer defending his supplier, or is he exposing the classic F1 tactic of “if you can’t beat them, ban them”?

Red Bull’s Double Trouble: Ford’s Admission and the GP Exodus

While Mercedes deals with accusations of being too good, Red Bull Racing faces a very different kind of anxiety. The team’s 2026 engine partner, Ford, has made a startling admission. Representatives have reportedly conceded that they expect a “small disadvantage” in thermal engine power compared to rivals with more recent experience, such as Ferrari and Mercedes.

While Ford insists the project is on target and any deficit is recoverable, this is not the news Max Verstappen fans want to hear. In Formula 1, a “small disadvantage” can easily translate to a massive gap on the stopwatch, especially at power-hungry circuits. If the Red Bull-Ford powertrain starts the new era on the back foot, the dynasty built by Verstappen could face a premature end.

Compounding the misery at Milton Keynes are the persistent rumors surrounding Gianpiero Lambiasi (GP), Verstappen’s no-nonsense race engineer. Following the departure of design genius Adrian Newey, losing GP would be a hammer blow to the team’s stability. Reports from Italy initially linked GP to Ferrari or Aston Martin, but now McLaren has entered the chat.

The Woking-based squad, currently riding a wave of resurgence, is reportedly interested in poaching Lambiasi. If McLaren pulls this off, it would be a strategic masterstroke—simultaneously weakening their biggest rival while bolstering their own technical ranks. With Jonathan Wheatley already gone to Sauber/Audi, the potential exit of GP raises a terrifying question for Red Bull: Is the brain drain becoming a flood?

The Ranking Scandal: Hamilton Erasure and Rookie Wars

Away from the technical wars, the annual Team Principals’ Driver Rankings have stirred up a hornet’s nest of controversy. The voting, which included bosses like Toto Wolff and Andrea Stella (but notably missed representatives from Ferrari and Red Bull this year), produced a list that has many scratching their heads.

Unsurprisingly, Max Verstappen topped the chart. However, the shock came further down the order. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton failed to crack the Top 10 entirely—a staggering omission for the sport’s most successful driver, even accounting for a difficult car. His future teammate, Charles Leclerc, also languished in seventh place, a position many feel is “outrageously low” given his two victories and multiple podiums in an erratic Ferrari.

The rookie battle also sparked debate. The team bosses voted Oliver Bearman as the top rookie (8th overall), placing him ahead of Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson. While Bearman’s stand-in performance for Ferrari in Jeddah was sensational, questions regarding “recency bias” and British bias remain. Is the paddock undervaluing the raw speed of the young guns while disrespecting the established legends? The omission of Hamilton, in particular, feels like a harsh changing of the guard, signaling that team bosses are looking purely at current machinery performance rather than inherent talent.

The Cost of Justice: FIA’s New “Pay to Protest” Rule

Perhaps the most concerning update for the long-term health of the sport is the FIA’s new stance on protests. In an effort to stop frivolous complaints, the governing body has raised the protest fee to a hefty €20,000. But here is the kicker: reports suggest that if a protest is unsuccessful, the fee will count against the team’s cost cap.

This is a game-changer. In an era where teams pinch pennies to stay under the budget cap, risking $20,000 (roughly equivalent to a high-end front wing part or critical development hours) becomes a massive gamble. This rule could effectively silence teams from challenging bad stewarding decisions. Even if a refereeing call is blatantly wrong, a team might hesitate to protest if they lack “new evidence,” fearing the financial penalty will hurt their car development. It creates a system where justice is a luxury item, accessible only to those willing to sacrifice performance for principle.

Ferrari’s 2026 Blueprint Leaked

Finally, eager eyes have spotted leaked details regarding Ferrari’s 2026 challenger. The reports indicate that the Scuderia is planning a “B-spec” strategy. They intend to launch a basic version of the car for the initial reveal and shakedown, only to introduce a significantly upgraded aerodynamic package for the second week of testing or the first race in Melbourne.

Renders suggest the 2026 cars will be shorter and narrower, with Ferrari moving toward a push-rod suspension layout at both the front and rear to optimize internal packaging. This aerodynamic sleight of hand suggests that while the engine war grabs headlines, the battle for airflow supremacy will be just as fierce.

Conclusion

As we head toward the 2025 season, it is clear that the shadow of 2026 is already looming large. The politics are vicious, the engineering stakes are astronomical, and the driver market is as volatile as ever. Whether Mercedes is cheating or just winning, whether Red Bull is crumbling or simply recalibrating, one thing is certain: the drama in Formula 1 is faster than the cars themselves. Stay tuned, because the off-season is just getting started.

A Seismic Shift in the Paddock

In the high-octane world of Formula 1, silence is often the precursor to the loudest explosions. Just when Red Bull Racing thought they could weather the storm of recent internal departures, a new bombshell has dropped—one that threatens to tear the very heart out of their championship-winning operation. Reports have surfaced indicating that Gianpiero Lambiase, Max Verstappen’s longtime race engineer and closest confidant, is in serious talks to defect to Aston Martin.

But this isn’t just another engineer moving down the pit lane. This is a potential checkmate move by Lawrence Stroll that could dismantle Red Bull’s dominance once and for all and pave the way for Max Verstappen to don British Racing Green in 2027.

The Human Cost: Why Lambiase Wants Out

To understand the gravity of this rumor, we have to look past the lap charts and telemetry data. The driving force behind Lambiase’s potential departure is deeply personal and heartbreakingly human. It has recently emerged that Lambiase’s wife, Eloise, is battling breast cancer—a devastating diagnosis that forced “GP” to miss the Austrian and Belgian Grands Prix in 2025.

For years, Lambiase has lived the grueling life of a race engineer, traveling to over 24 countries a year, living out of suitcases, and spending weeks away from home. In light of his family’s health crisis, the allure of the traveling circus has faded. He needs stability. He needs to be home.

Aston Martin is reportedly not offering him another headset on the pit wall. Instead, they are proposing a senior management role—potentially as a Team Principal or CEO-style figure alongside Adrian Newey. This position would be largely factory-based at Aston Martin’s state-of-the-art Silverstone headquarters. It offers the one thing Red Bull currently demands he sacrifice: a work-life balance that allows him to support his wife through her recovery. It is an offer that appeals to the husband, not just the engineer, making it incredibly difficult to refuse.

The Aston Martin “Super Team” Strategy

If the personal motivation provides the “why,” the professional opportunity provides the “how.” Lawrence Stroll is assembling what can only be described as the “Galacticos” of Formula 1 technical leadership. With design genius Adrian Newey already signed to lead the team from 2026, a specific gap has opened up in the team’s structure.

Newey has been explicitly clear throughout his career, and specifically regarding his move to Aston Martin: he wants to design fast cars. He does not want to be bogged down by the mundane administrative burdens of running a racing team—HR meetings, logistics, budgets, and media obligations. He needs a partner.

Enter Gianpiero Lambiase.

Having worked together during Red Bull’s golden eras, Newey and Lambiase share a shorthand and a mutual respect that takes years to build. Lambiase possesses the operational sharpness, the calm under pressure, and the strategic mind to run the day-to-day operations of the team, leaving Newey free to work his magic on the drawing board. It is a symbiotic relationship that created arguably the most dominant car in history, the RB19, and Stroll is keen to recreate that magic in silver and green.

The Max Verstappen Connection: The Long Game

Let’s be honest: in F1, every move is 4D chess, and the king on the board is Max Verstappen. The potential hiring of Lambiase is not just about securing a top-tier manager; it is arguably the most aggressive recruiting pitch for a driver in the sport’s history.

Max Verstappen and Gianpiero Lambiase are the “old married couple” of F1. Their radio messages—swinging from bickering to jubilation—are the stuff of legend. Max has stated on record, multiple times, that his relationship with GP is critical to his performance. He has even hinted in the past that he wouldn’t want to race without him.

By securing Lambiase, Aston Martin effectively holds the key to Verstappen’s comfort zone.

Consider the landscape for 2027:

The Engine: Aston Martin will be the works team for Honda in 2026. Max won his first title with Honda. He trusts Japanese engineering implicitly.

The Designer: Adrian Newey, the man who designed every car Max has won a championship in, will be at Aston Martin.

The Engineer: If Lambiase joins, the “holy trinity” of Max’s success will be reunited under one roof.

Contrast this with the uncertainty at Red Bull. They are venturing into the unknown with their own Red Bull Powertrains project in collaboration with Ford. Rumors are already swirling that the engine project is behind schedule and struggling to hit performance targets compared to Mercedes and Ferrari. Max’s contract reportedly contains a performance clause that allows him to leave at the end of 2026 if the car is not competitive. Aston Martin is building a safety net that looks more like a golden parachute.

Red Bull’s Crumbling Empire

For Red Bull Racing, this rumor represents an existential crisis. The team that looked invincible just two seasons ago is facing a “brain drain” of catastrophic proportions. First, they lost Rob Marshall to McLaren. Then, the legendary Adrian Newey departed. Jonathan Wheatley, the sporting director, is heading to Audi. Now, the potential loss of Lambiase threatens to sever the final link keeping Max Verstappen grounded at Milton Keynes.

If Lambiase leaves, it signals to the entire paddock—and crucially to Max—that the old Red Bull is gone. The stability is gone. The “family” feel is gone. It becomes a team trying to rebuild while its rivals are accelerating.

The 2027 Vision

Imagine the grid in 2027. Fernando Alonso, ever the gladiator, has hinted he might retire if he can’t win, or perhaps he stays for one last dance. But if that seat opens up, and Aston Martin presents Max Verstappen with a car designed by Newey, an engine built by Honda, and a team run by Lambiase, how could he say no?

It would be the reunion of the decade. A team built specifically to maximize the talents of one generational talent. Lawrence Stroll is proving that he isn’t just playing at running an F1 team; he is methodically acquiring every single asset required to dominate.

The rumor of Gianpiero Lambiase to Aston Martin is more than just “silly season” gossip. It is the first tremor of an earthquake that could reshape the Formula 1 landscape for years to come. Red Bull should be worried. Very worried. Because if GP goes, Max might just be packing his bags right behind him.

Kelly Brook has never been the type to sit quietly and look pretty when a man crosses the line — and the shocking stories from her past romances prove she’s every bit as fiery as she is glamorous.

The 45-year-old I’m A Celebrity star has spent decades in the spotlight, adored for her beauty, humour, and charm. But behind the scenes? Kelly has weathered some jaw-dropping betrayals… and she didn’t always walk away quietly.

The Las Vegas Strip-Club Meltdown That Became Legend

During her turbulent romance with rugby star Danny Cipriani, Kelly discovered he’d allegedly slipped his number to a stripper inside Spearmint Rhino. The moment she spotted him walking toward her — fresh from the stage — the glamour girl saw red.

“I punched him,” she confessed in her book Close Up.

Within seconds, four bouncers were on her, hauling her away “like a crazy, drunk, betrayed woman.” Kelly didn’t sugarcoat it either — she admitted the whole scene looked straight out of Jerry Springer.

Danny later gave his version in his memoir, hinting the dancer was the one pushing boundaries. But the damage — and the drama — were already done.

The A-List Wedding Slap Heard Around the Room

Danny wasn’t the only ex to face Kelly’s wrath.

At Madonna and Guy Ritchie’s star-studded wedding in 2000, Kelly’s then-fiancé Jason Statham had one too many drinks… and one too many compliments for Gwyneth Paltrow, whom he reportedly called “sexy, sexy” mid-dance floor shimmy.

Kelly responded with another swift smack.

Looking back, she admits she’s not proud of the violence — but she’s honest about where her fire comes from. “I’m not an angel,” she wrote. “But I guess I get some of that fiery passion from my parents.”

Even Her Friends Weren’t Safe From the Fall-Out

Former I’m A Celeb star Nicola McLean revealed she once helped Kelly uncover a cheating partner — using her connections to dig up the other woman. The two teamed up for a full day of emotional detective work… only for Kelly to unfollow her afterward.

“I was like, ‘Oh, cheers Kelly,’” Nicola said, laughing.

From Chaos to True Love

Decades of headline-grabbing romances later, Kelly seems to have finally found steady happiness. In 2022 she married Italian model Jeremy Parisi — and he’s now waiting in Australia to support her once she leaves the jungle.

Jeremy, who is openly besotted with his wife, told reporters:

“I’m a very lucky man to be married to one of the most beautiful women in the world… she never disappoints.”

In a completely unexpected turn of events, British media has exploded with news that Matilda “Tilly” Ramsay – beloved daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay – is reportedly pregnant with Luciano D’Acampo, the son of the famously cheeky chef Gino D’Acampo. While no official statement has been released, several sources claim the young couple has already informed their families and is preparing to welcome their first child.

According to a close friend of Tilly, her romance with Luciano has been going on quietly for over two years. The couple chose to keep things private, particularly to avoid interference from Tilly’s father – known for being extremely protective and stern. But now, the truth is out, and the public can’t get enough of the drama.

The biggest question now is: how will Gordon Ramsay and Gino D’Acampo react? Rumors suggest that Gordon is “furious beyond words,” while Gino is reportedly “celebrating wildly,” seeing this as a sign from the universe for both families to reconcile.

One thing is certain: nothing will ever be the same for Tilly and Luciano, and the world is eagerly awaiting a formal response from all involved.

Katie Price’s boyfriend JJ Slater was seen stepping up as a carer for her son Harvey during the latest stop of her chaotic tell-all tour with Kerry Katona.

The Married At First Sight UK star, 32, spent the day looking after Harvey, 23, who is blind, autistic, and lives with septo-optic dysplasia. While Katie prepared for her performance at St Helens Theatre, JJ not only guided Harvey but also tended to the family’s kittens, who were brought along for the outing.

In a recent statement, JJ openly said, “If the boy’s father won’t claim him, then I will — he will be my son.”

Onlookers praised JJ’s attentiveness, with many noting how he kept Harvey entertained and comfortable before the show began. Later, Harvey joined Katie and Kerry on stage, where he delighted the crowd by dancing to Atomic Kitten’s Whole Again. Katie and Kerry held his hands as the audience rose to their feet, creating a heart-warming family moment that left fans cheering.

Katie proudly shared a selfie wearing Harvey’s signature frog-eyed green bucket hat, writing: “OMG Harvey just absolutely slayed that crowd.”

Despite the wholesome scenes, the tour has faced heavy criticism. Just a day earlier, Katie sparked fury by arriving more than two hours late to a different gig in Whitley Bay, leaving Kerry to hold the stage alone. Some fans branded the shows “unprofessional,” with audience members demanding refunds after Katie only performed for around 30 minutes on certain nights.

Still, JJ’s growing bond with Harvey has not gone unnoticed. Sources close to the couple say JJ and Harvey have developed a “sweet connection,” with JJ seen guiding him gently into the theatre in what fans described as a “touching” moment.

EXCLUSIVE: James Bulger’s Mum Breaks Silence — Calls Jon Venables’ Parole Denial “The Best Thing to Happen in 30 Years”

Murdered James Bulger’s mum has told of her “pure relief and elation” after killer Jon Venables had his freedom bid rejected by parole chiefs yesterday – hailing the decision as “the best thing that has happened to me in 30 years”.

Triumphant Denise Fergus, who has tirelessly campaigned for justice for her son for three decades, revealed how she was “finally vindicated” after a parole board yesterday agreed evil Jon Venables, now 41, remained a danger to kids and could not be trusted back on the streets.

Yesterday a parole board panel said they were concerned Venables – just ten when he tortured and murdered tiny James in 1993 – has “continuing issues of sexual preoccupation” and were “not satisfied” the public would be safe if he was released.

Today Denise said she was delighted Venables could now be in jail indefinitely if new Government laws to never release dangerous reoffending, sexual attackers were introduced – saying: “I feel we have finally been listened to and the whole nation is safe from the most dangerous, murdering sexual predator”.

In her first interview since yesterday’s landmark news, Denise, 54, said: “I have fought for justice for James and to keep his killer behind bars for years so the decision to not let him walk free is the best thing that has happened to me for 30 years. It’s a huge day for us. I could barely sleep for the dread and fear, one of the most evil men on the planet could be back on our streets. I had braced myself for his release.

“So when I was told the news Venables’ parole had been rejected I was just shellshocked, it’s the first time ever something has gone my way. I just felt so relieved. It feels like the decision is vindication for all the times I have told people he is a danger to society and that he would harm again. I’m so pleased the parole board have agreed with that.

“I just hope Venables now gets to feel a bit of the anguish I have felt for all these years because I’ve been to hell and back but it’s him that has lost.”

She added: “I don’t think he should ever see the light of day again. I have never said that before but now I mean it. What he did to James and his reoffending actions after show he can’t be rehabilitated. This man has no remorse, no sympathy, no pity, no apology for us so he should be kept in.”

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mirror told how she had been wracked with nerves and unable to sleep ahead of the decision but felt a “wave of shock and then relief” on hearing the news.

She also told of her happiness that Venables, who initially served less than eight years in a young offenders institute for James’ murder, will now “get the time in adult jail he should’ve in the first place”.

Tiny James was murdered by Venables and Robert Thompson – both aged 10 – in February 1993. They grabbed the boy from a shopping centre in Bootle, Merseyside, after his mum let go of his hand for a second.

The killers dragged him two miles to a rail line where they tortured and battered him to death. They were convicted of murder in November 1993 and ordered to be detained indefinitely – but were released aged 18 in 2001 with new identities after less than eight years. Thompson, also 41, has not reoffended.

But Venables, now 41, was sent back to jail in 2010 and 2017 after being caught with child sex abuse images on his computer. He was turned down for parole in 2020 having served his minimum 40 months sentence but last month was given an unprecedented two-day hearing.

It was set to be held in private after Venables argued it would harm his “mental health” if it was made public. But despite this, he shunned the hearing, which led to chiefs delaying the decision by two weeks to allow him “one last chance” to make a written submission in which he is reported to have said he was “completely rehabilitated”.

But yesterday the parole board announced their decision – deeming him unfit to be released.

Denise said: “When the parole board made concessions for him by making his hearing closed to protect his mental health or delaying it by two weeks to give him more time to make a statement I thought ‘here we go again, it’s going to go his way’. I had a sense of dread. People would be talking to me in the lead up and I’d struggle to take it in. My mind has been consumed with the parole board outcome. It means so much in our fight for justice for James.

“The not knowing has been agony. I started putting my Christmas decorations up weeks ago but they are still not finished. That shows how distracted I’ve been. I couldn’t get my head around it. My sleep has been affected too and has been at its worst this week. I was in and out of sleep and it has done me in to be honest.

“There is nothing I can do to bring James back. I started dozing off and my mind took over and feeling dread, the worst case scenario and reminding me that something was going to happen. It was horrendous. It was torture.”

But at 10.30am yesterday, Denise, who lives in Merseyside with husband Stuart, got the news she had been praying for.

Denise added: “When I took the call, I was just in shock when our liaison officer told me the news and then this wave of relief came. I’ve never felt this way. I couldn’t even think straight. I was like, ‘has this really happened’ or is it a dream. But it is real and thank god he didn’t get his way and I got mine.”

Stuart added: “I looked at her face, it wasn’t a smile but it was the relief that just flowed out. It was wonderful to see.” She added: “One thing that popped into my mind was that I would love to know was what his thoughts are and I hope he is feeling just a little bit of what I’ve been feeling for the last 30 years.”

The parole board also released a three-page summary of the panel’s decision.

It read: “After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in custody and on licence, and the evidence presented in the dossier, the panel was not satisfied that release at this point would be safe for the protection of the public.

“It noted the risks as set out above, doubted Mr Venables’ ability to be open and honest with professionals, and concluded that there remained a need for him to address outstanding levels of risk, and to develop his relationship with his probation officer.”

It said the killer had completed a “considerable amount of work” in prison to address his offending but the panel remained “concerned by continuing issues of sexual preoccupation”.

Denise said: “I’m so happy that they said this. I have been convinced by this for years and know it is the case. It is reassuring to know that the parole board are convinced of the same too.”

The summary added: “The panel considered that there were future risks of Mr Venables again viewing indecent images of children/child sexual abuse images, and also of Mr Venables progressing to offences where he might have contact with children, and both of these present a risk of causing serious harm to others.

“It accordingly determined that there would be a risk to others at this time if Mr Venables were to be released.”

Denise added: “I’m also really pleased this was noted too. I really hope that the families of the kids in images, who were victims of his most recent offences, feel some justice too. It is true that he has not changed a bit and couldn’t be further away from being rehabilitated.

“I have known for a fact for 30 years, after he killed James, that we would end up with another victim like him at the hands of him. I couldn’t let that happen and I’m so pleased that the parole board aren’t allowing that.”

Venables now has 21 days to appeal the decision.

Denise added: “We are obviously aware that you can never say never but if the decision was overturned there would be outcry. The detail of his current state and how far he is from rehabilitation is so damning, it would be a disaster politically if he was released.”

Now Denise said she is looking forward to a Christmas together with the family safe in the knowledge that Venables’ chance appeal will not come around again for another two years – and, if new laws are passed, ever again.

Penny Lancaster became overwhelmed with emotion as she looked back on her and Rod Stewart’s remarkable 25-year romance during the new festive episode of My Life At Christmas with Anita Rani. The 54-year-old model repeatedly broke down while reflecting on the long, winding road that brought her and the 80-year-old music legend together — and even Rod wiped away a tear by the end.

The couple first crossed paths in 1999, when Penny was still a photography student at Barking College and Rod was performing following his split from Rachel Hunter. Penny recalled how they exchanged numbers that night, but she heard nothing for months — completely unaware that Rod’s band leader Carmine Appice had intentionally held on to her number until he felt the singer was emotionally ready. Rod laughed that he “should have fired him, but couldn’t,” because Carmine was simply trying to protect him.

Penny admitted she assumed their brief encounter was over. She remembered developing the concert photos she had taken of Rod and thinking it would remain a “lovely memory.” But once Rod finally reached out nine months later, their relationship quickly grew serious, and Penny soon found herself welcomed into his large blended family.

Opening up about the early years, Penny couldn’t hold back tears as she described the challenge of stepping gently into a household with children aged five to twenty-one from multiple mothers. She said she “tiptoed lightly,” wanting to stay present but not intrusive. After years of patience, she said she reached a closeness with Rod’s children that she “never thought I would get.”

Rod, too, grew emotional as he praised Penny’s role in his family, saying his children “adore her now” and look to her for guidance.

One of the most moving moments of the interview came when Penny recalled the couple’s 2018 meeting with Pope Francis, an encounter won through a charity auction. She struggled through tears as she described the Pope placing both their hands together and blessing them, saying the moment “cemented all the wishes Rod and I had quietly prayed for.”

But it was Rod who broke down at the end, revealing the secret to their long-lasting relationship. He said the age gap had its challenges but created a balance: he brought maturity, while Penny taught him honesty. Rod added that they never go to bed angry, never argue after wine, and resolve disagreements quickly. Fighting back tears, he said he tries to teach all his children that “real men say sorry — that’s what they do,” before adding that he hopes the “wonderful honesty” between him and Penny lasts forever.

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the glittering world of ballroom dancing, the BBC has officially announced Rylan Clark as the new host of *Strictly Come Dancing*, stepping into the formidable shoes left vacant by long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The revelation, dropped like a bombshell during a prime-time special on November 26, 2025, confirms what insiders have been whispering for weeks: the charismatic former *X Factor* star and beloved radio personality will lead the show’s 2026 series. But the real jaw-dropper? His co-host is none other than Emma Willis, the no-nonsense presenter known for her work on *Big Brother* and *The Voice UK*—a choice that has left fans reeling, divided, and utterly surprised.
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The announcement comes hot on the heels of Tess and Claudia’s emotional exit, revealed just last month in a joint Instagram video that caught even the show’s insiders off guard. The duo, who have helmed *Strictly* since 2004 and 2014 respectively, cited a desire for more family time and new projects as their reasons for bowing out after the current series wraps. “It’s been an incredible ride, but it’s time to hang up our sequins,” Tess said in the video, her voice cracking with emotion. Claudia, ever the witty counterpart, added, “We’ve laughed, cried, and glitter-bombed our way through two decades. What a sparkle!” Their departure marks the end of an era for the BBC’s flagship entertainment program, which has dazzled audiences with its mix of  celebrity glamour, professional prowess, and occasional controversy.

Rylan Clark, 37, is no stranger to the *Strictly* family. Rising to fame on *The X Factor* in 2012, where his larger-than-life personality and infectious energy won over Simon Cowell and the nation, Rylan transitioned seamlessly into presenting. He hosted *Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two* from 2019 to 2023, earning rave reviews for his empathetic interviews and cheeky banter with contestants. Fans remember his heartfelt moments, like consoling tearful dancers after tough critiques or hyping up underdogs before live shows. His departure from *It Takes Two* in 2023 to focus on other ventures, including his BBC Radio 2 show and various   TV gigs, left a void—but now, he’s back in a bigger role than ever.

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“Rylan’s the perfect fit,” a BBC insider told us exclusively. “He’s got that sparkle, that warmth, and he knows the show inside out. Plus, he’s adored by the viewers.” Betting odds had pegged him as a frontrunner alongside names like Bill Bailey and Alan Carr, but the official nod still feels like a triumph for the Essex boy done good. Rylan himself reacted with trademark humility and excitement on social media shortly after the announcement: “Pinch me! Hosting *Strictly*? Dream come true. Can’t wait to bring the glitz with my fabulous co-host. Let’s dance!”

But it’s the choice of Emma Willis as his co-host that’s truly raised eyebrows. At 49, Emma brings a wealth of experience from reality TV heavyweights, where her poised demeanor and sharp interviewing skills have made her a household name. Yet, her pairing with Rylan is unexpected—fans had speculated duos like Rylan with Fleur East (who replaced him on *It Takes Two*) or even a solo host shake-up. “Emma? Really?” one fan tweeted in disbelief. “Love her on *Big Brother*, but *Strictly* is all about fun and flair. This feels like a curveball.” Others praised the move: “Fresh energy! Emma’s class and Rylan’s charm—genius combo.”

Sources close to the production reveal that Emma was a last-minute contender, edging out other favorites after impressing in screen tests. “The chemistry was electric,” our insider dished. “Rylan’s bubbly, Emma’s grounded—they balance each other like Tess and Claudia did.” Emma, married to Busted’s Matt Willis and a mother of three, has spoken openly about her love for dance shows. In a past interview, she confessed, “I’d kill to be part of *Strictly*—the glamour, the stories, it’s TV magic.” Her addition signals the BBC’s intent to evolve the format, perhaps injecting more in-depth contestant chats amid the tango and tango.
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The shake-up couldn’t come at a more pivotal time for *Strictly*. The 2025 series has been marred by scandals, from judge walkout rumors to contestant injuries, prompting calls for a refresh. Tess and Claudia’s exit, while voluntary, was influenced by the show’s grueling schedule—weekends dominated by live broadcasts, leaving little room for personal life. BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips addressed the changes in a statement: “Tess and Claudia have been the heart of *Strictly*, but we’re thrilled to welcome Rylan and Emma. They’ll honor the legacy while bringing new vibrancy.”

Reactions from the *Strictly* alumni have poured in. Former winner Bill Bailey, who was tipped for the role, tweeted his support: “Rylan? Brilliant choice! And Emma—unexpected but spot on. Can’t wait to watch.” Judge Craig Revel Horwood, known for his acerbic wit, dropped a hint on air last week: “Darlings, big changes ahead—fabulous!” Fans speculate this could mean more judge involvement, perhaps even guest spots.

Rylan’s journey to this pinnacle is a testament to his resilience. After *X Factor*, he navigated personal highs and lows, including his 2021 divorce from Dan Neal and mental health battles, which he shared candidly in his memoir *Ten: The Decade That Changed My Future*. His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health has endeared him to millions, making him more than just a presenter—he’s a role model. “I’ve grown so much,” Rylan reflected in a recent Radio 2 broadcast. “Hosting *Strictly*? It’s full circle.”

Emma, too, brings depth. Her no-frills style contrasts Rylan’s flamboyance, promising dynamic on-screen moments. Imagine her grilling judges on scores while Rylan rallies the crowd—pure entertainment gold. But not everyone’s convinced. A Reddit thread exploded with debates: “Why not keep it in the family? Rylan yes, but Emma feels like a mismatch.” Others worry about gender balance, with two hosts again but a fresh dynamic.
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As *Strictly* gears up for 2026, producers promise innovations: more diverse celebrities, interactive viewer votes, and perhaps themed weeks honoring the show’s history. Rylan and Emma’s debut will be scrutinized, but if their past successes are any indication, they’ll waltz through the pressure.

Tess and Claudia’s final bow from Blackpool Tower Ballroom last weekend was tearful, with tributes from stars like Rose Ayling-Ellis and Hamza Yassin. “You’ve been our guiding lights,” Rose signed in a video message. Now, the torch passes to Rylan and Emma—a hot new era for *Strictly*, full of surprises, sequins, and steps into the unknown.

In the end, this announcement isn’t just about hosts; it’s about reinvention. *Strictly Come Dancing* has survived scandals, pandemics, and shifting tastes. With Rylan at the helm and Emma by his side, the show is poised to shine brighter than ever. As Rylan might say: “Keep dancing!”

Jungle Queen in the Making

With the I’m a Celebrity final just days away, Lisa Riley has emerged as a true fan favorite — and her Emmerdale castmates are making sure she feels the love from back home.

Swapping Mandy Dingle’s fierce leopard print for jungle boots and trials, Lisa has been winning hearts Down Under. Not only has she survived the first four eliminations, but she also smashed her first solo Bushtucker Trial, returning with eight stars for camp.

Rallying From the Woolpack

In a heartwarming show of support, Lisa’s Emmerdale co-stars gathered at the Woolpack to send her a message straight from the Dales. Emma Atkins, Tony Audenshaw, William Ash, Ned Porteous, Beth Cordingly, Chris Chittell, James Hooton, and James Moore all took part in the chant:

“Come on Lisa!”

Their plea to fans was loud and clear: “Lisa, you’re doing brilliant in the jungle. Please, everybody — vote for Lisa Riley!”

The video was shared on Emmerdale’s official Instagram, and fans were quick to share their love in the comments.

Support From Her On-Screen Husband

Lisa’s on-screen husband, Dominic Brunt, also spoke out during a Loose Women appearance, revealing the emotional rollercoaster of watching her from home.

“At first, she was quiet — not the Lisa we all know,” he admitted. “But after a few days, she came out of her shell. Now she’s just making us all so proud.”

His words echoed what many viewers feel: Lisa’s journey has been one of real growth and heart, filled with charm, resilience, and that unmistakable Dingle spirit

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The Final Countdown

As the finale approaches, Lisa’s name continues to trend, with fans calling for her to take the crown. With strong support from campmates, the public, and her Emmerdale family, she’s a serious contender to be crowned Queen of the Jungle.

One thing’s for sure: Lisa Riley has already won over the nation — and with just a few more days of voting, she could go all the way.

Sir Chris Hoy, one of Britain’s greatest Olympic heroes with six gold medals to his name, is now fighting the toughest battle of his life — a terminal cancer diagnosis that arrived two years ago and changed everything.

He first noticed pain in his shoulder and ribs, assuming it was simply “too much time in the gym”. But a scan revealed the unthinkable: a tumour. Hoy later told the BBC he felt absolute horror and shock upon hearing the news. Things worsened when follow-up scans in 2024 showed the cancer had already spread, with doctors giving him “two to four years to live”.

The disease had become so aggressive that tumours had “burrowed” into his spine, fracturing a vertebra. Hoy recalled: “When I had the first diagnosis and scans, some of the secondary tumours in my spine had actually burrowed into the bone so badly it had fractured.”

Despite everything, Hoy has found a surprising shift in his outlook. Speaking to the BBC this week, he revealed: “It’s changed my life without question, but I think in some ways it’s improved my life. I’m not as bothered by small things… I try to focus on the here and the now, enjoying the moment, making the most of today, and trying to find something positive in any situation.”

He added that surrounding himself with positivity has become essential: “Even at the very least, trying just to reject negativity, because it brings you down. If you can, in any situation, look for the positives and surround yourself with people that are the same.”

Hoy says he is still managing to do the things he loves and treasures time with his family. “I’m doing well… and I hope to be around for a lot longer yet.”

In an interview with The Times, Hoy criticised the lack of automatic prostate cancer screening in the UK. “There isn’t a national screening process,” he said. “It shouldn’t be up to people like myself to have to raise awareness, but we do have to… When you turn 45, you should get some sort of information, a letter or an email, to let you know that every man needs to know their individual risk.”

He highlighted how dangerous assumptions can be: “It’s seen as an older man’s disease… I was 47 when I was diagnosed, and by that point it was too late.”

Since his devastating diagnosis, Hoy has channelled his energy into advocacy, using his platform to push for awareness. His charity cycling challenge, Tour de 4, raised over £3 million — more than triple its original target — a testament to both his determination and the lives he hopes to save.