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No more ‘come on Eileen’ jokes

After 25 years on the cobbles, tonight’s episode (Friday, June 6) saw Eileen Grimshaw leave Coronation Street for a fresh start in Thailand.

She bid the Street goodbye and joined Jason in a taxi as she headed to the airport for her new venture.

But, as Sue Cleaver departs from the ITV soap, what is she up to next?

Eileen is off to Thailand (Credit: ITV)

Eileen’s exit in Coronation Street

This evening, Eileen decided to take Jason up on his offer and help him run his bar in Thailand.

With Eileen now being a free woman without the risk of prison hanging over her for Julie’s death, she was ready to go on holiday to Thailand without the stress.

But, George didn’t think that was a good idea anymore. He thought Eileen was kidding herself into thinking their relationship was working, prompting her to make the decision to leave Weatherfield without him and move to Thailand permanently.

She told George she loved him like a friend instead of romantically, with George thanking her for her honesty and telling her he was staying put.

Eileen then packed her bags and said her goodbyes to everyone, making Todd Grimshaw promise that he’d come and visit them.

She and Jason then got into a taxi and headed off to the airport.

Sue is excited about the future (Credit: ITV)

Coronation Street star Sue Cleaver’s next career move

Speaking on Loose Women a couple of months ago, Sue Cleaver revealed that she was ‘ready to get out of her comfort zone.’

She shared: “This is my decade. I’m more excited about this decade, hopefully you know, as long as I remain well, that this is going to be the most exciting decade for me. I’m really excited.”

In December this year, she’s set to switch the cobbles for the stage as she appears in panto. She’ll be starring as Mrs Potty in Beauty and the Beast at Hull New Theatre alongside Paul Chuckle.

But, as she excitedly looks forward to new adventures and opportunities, could she ever return as Eileen in the future? It is possible…

Speaking to the Mirror, Sue shared: “There was always the risk that they might have killed me off, but they were supportive and said ‘Eileen’s a big part of the show.’ They asked what kind of ending I wanted, and I said I didn’t want to call it a day, because I love the place. I said I wanted a happy ending. Basically, the journey Eileen is taking is pretty much what I’m choosing to do.”

Coronation Street usually airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV.

“I know what it is like to be incapacitated, to be ill, to be in hospital for a long time,” the TV personality said

Katie Piper on December 2, 2024, in London.Credit : Neil Mockford/FilmMagic

Seventeen years after surviving an acid attack, English television personality Katie Piper admits that she’s never fully been “discharged” from medical care.

The 41-year-old panelist for British talk show Loose Women recently spoke to the Mirror and opened up about her recovery over the years and her desire to get to a point where she’s healthy again.

“I’m never discharged. I have to go back for my eyes, nose, and throat,” she said. “I learned at such a young age the value of looking after your mind, your body, how our health is a privilege and how it can suddenly change.”

“I’ve had this unique experience as a 20-something where I know what it is like to be incapacitated, to be ill, to be in hospital for a long time,” she explained. “I always take myself back to that memory of ‘Do all this now, so when you are older, your quality of life is the best it can be.’

“I want to be healthy,” she added. “I take looking after my body as a job. I want the best from it.”

Katie Piper on February 10, 2025, in London.Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty

On Jan. 10, Piper announced on Instagram that she is getting an “artificial eye” because the acid attack left her partially blind. She said she “reached the end of [the] road somewhat, and the decision has been made to try a prosthetic eye shell after “many years battling with my eye health.”

“This marks the start of a journey to have an artificial eye, with an incredible medical team behind me,” Piper wrote. “As always I’m incredibly grateful to all those in the NHS [National Health Service] and private health care system for their talent and kindness.”

Piper added that she would detail her “journey” and that she’s “hopeful and nervous” about the change.

“[I] would love to hear from any of you in the comments if you’ve been on this journey or have any advice,” she wrote, including a video of her fitted with the prosthetic.

Piper’s latest health decision comes 17 years after a March 2008 acid attack arranged by an ex, when she suffered severe burns and was left blind in one eye.

In the years since she has worked as a motivational speaker and television presenter and has launched a foundation. She also released a memoir, Beautiful, in 2011.

Laura Malows, Dominique Bogle, and Jane Hastings — three ordinary women, now extraordinary entrepreneurs thanks to TikTok Shop.

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TikTok — the platform once known for dance trends, lip-syncing teens, and viral memes — has now become a commerce colossus, quietly transforming lives and bank accounts with its latest innovation: TikTok Shop.
Meet the women who’ve turned followers into fortunes and “Lives” into livelihoods. In their hands, TikTok isn’t just social media — it’s social enterprise.

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💄 From Baby Bottles to Beauty Empire: The Rise of Laura Malows

For Laura Malows, it all started during maternity leave. Just three weeks after giving birth, she received a chilling call from her accountant:

“You’re about to lose your business if you don’t act fast.”

Her company, once thriving on body scrubs and shea butters, was on the brink. But salvation came not in the form of a bank loan — but a phone call from TikTok.

“They said, ‘You can make an extra £10,000 a month if you go live,’ and honestly, I had no other option.”

Fast forward four years, Laura now earns £250,000 a month — yes, a month — by going live on TikTok, showcasing her beauty products from her warehouse late into the night.

“I’d be breastfeeding in the day and packing orders with my phone propped up at night. The algorithm didn’t care if I was a small business. I had the same visibility as the big brands.”

The turning point? A “Mega Live” in July where she raked in £200,000 in just one day. TikTok flew in a production crew, set up a massive screen to track live revenue, and watched in awe as numbers ticked higher.

Laura’s TikTok Shop “Mega Live” setup — the night she earned £200,000 in 24 hours.

“The adrenaline was unreal. But the best moment? FaceTiming my customers to tell them they’d won a Gucci bag or iPhone — and seeing my brand’s products already on their shelves. That’s when I knew we’d built a real community.”

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👩‍🦲 Losing Hair, Gaining Power: Dominique Bogle’s Wig Revolution

Dominique Bogle never intended to become a TikTok titan. But a personal health battle changed everything. At 21, she developed alopecia, leading to significant hair loss. The experience was isolating and confusing — until she realized she wasn’t alone.

“I thought, if I’m going through this, surely other women are too. So I started sourcing manufacturers for high-quality wigs that didn’t cost a fortune.”

Juggling a demanding corporate job at HSBC by day, Dominique turned to TikTok at night. Her kitchen became her studio. Her phone, her storefront.

“I started with a ring light and a dream. Eight months in, I quit my job. Now we’re doing £60,000 to £70,000 a month, minimum.”

The wigs — synthetic, but virtually indistinguishable from real hair — empower women to regain confidence, change their looks effortlessly, or simply explore self-expression.

Her brand now employs family, including her mother who also left her job to join Dominique’s growing empire.

“TikTok didn’t just change my life — it changed my family’s life. We just signed for a new warehouse!”

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🧸 Toy Story 2.0: How Jane Hastings Went Viral with Playthings

For Jane Hastings, toys aren’t child’s play — they’re serious business.

“I used to stare into toy shop windows as a kid. Now, I own the one everyone’s watching.”

Her brick-and-mortar store struggled, like many, in the post-COVID retail landscape. But TikTok? It exploded.

It all started in June 2024, when she featured the Interactive FX Stitch — Toy of the Year — during a live session. The orders came faster than she could blink.

“I pressed the ‘go live’ button with no clue what I was doing. Now we can’t even fit all the inventory in our current shop!”

Behind-the-scenes of Jane’s toy shop studio — where magic (and sales) happen.

Even local Premier League footballers noticed. Stars like Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz from Liverpool FC now swing by regularly — not for exclusives at Selfridges, but for glitter slime and talking plushies.

“We lock the doors, give them privacy. Last week they even used our TikTok studio to take selfies!”

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📲 What’s the Secret Sauce?

So what’s behind these astonishing success stories?

It isn’t luck. It isn’t even perfect marketing. It’s authenticity.

“People don’t want polish. They want real,” Jane emphasizes.
“You could have the best product, but if you’re stiff on camera, it won’t connect.”

TikTok’s algorithm doesn’t just reward followers — it rewards engagement. That means any seller, from a Liverpool toy shop to a mom on maternity leave, has equal footing with billion-dollar brands.

The platform offers a direct line to consumers, with features like:

📦 Live selling with instant product links

💬 Real-time Q&A with customers

🎁 Hourly giveaways to boost retention

🔄 Algorithmic reach beyond just followers

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💥 The TikTok Shop Takeover Has Only Just Begun

TikTok Shop has reshaped not only how we sell — but who gets to sell. It’s removed gatekeepers, slashed startup costs, and handed the megaphone to creators who otherwise might never get a shot.

Laura, Dominique, and Jane aren’t just entrepreneurs. They’re pioneers of a new digital frontier where passion, purpose, and a smartphone are all you need to build a business.

So the next time you scroll past a TikTok Live of someone waving glitter or combing a wig — don’t dismiss it.

You might just be watching the next millionaire in the making.

Lewis Hamilton’s SF-25 Upgrade: Ferrari’s Defining Moment of the 2025 Season?

In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, there are moments that mark the difference between surviving a season and transforming it. For Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari, the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix might just be that moment. After months of internal frustration, missed opportunities, and relentless development, a leaked upgrade to the Ferrari SF-25 could be the breakthrough Hamilton has been waiting for. This isn’t just another technical patch—it’s a precision-engineered overhaul that could finally unlock the true potential of a seven-time world champion in red.

The SF-25’s Struggles—And a Turning Point

Since the season opener in Bahrain, Hamilton has found himself fighting the car more than his rivals. The SF-25, while promising in theory, has consistently underdelivered on race day. From unpredictable handling to wind sensitivity and a lack of grip in low-speed corners, Ferrari’s 2025 challenger has been temperamental at best.

Yet, behind closed doors, Ferrari’s engineering team has been working relentlessly to address these issues. The result? A completely redesigned floor—an upgrade that, if reports are accurate, could dramatically change the SF-25’s aerodynamic behavior. This isn’t a marginal tweak; it’s a recalibration of the car’s very foundation.

The New Floor: Stability, Grip, and Confidence

Leaked ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the new floor has been quietly tested during internal simulations and limited on-track sessions. It integrates a revised underbody design aimed at stabilizing airflow, reducing drag, and boosting downforce in medium-speed corners—all without compromising top speed on the straights.

Canada’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve presents a unique challenge: it’s a hybrid layout requiring both straight-line speed and mechanical grip through tight chicanes and heavy braking zones. Ferrari’s new floor is reportedly tailored for exactly this. If the simulations hold true, Hamilton could finally get the consistency he’s been chasing since March.

In practical terms, this means less bouncing, better traction, and more predictable handling through both fast sweepers and slow hairpins. Hamilton has long spoken about needing to “trust” the car to push it to the limit. For the first time in 2025, he might just be getting that trust back.

Suspension Tweaks and Engine Mapping

Alongside the new floor, Ferrari has also begun rolling out an upgraded suspension geometry—though the full system is expected to debut at Silverstone. For Montreal, Hamilton will be running a transitional setup that improves corner entry and traction out of low-speed zones.

This change is particularly important for a track like Montreal, where a good exit from the hairpin can make or break an overtaking move on the long back straight. The improved rotation and balance should allow Hamilton to be more aggressive without overstepping the car’s limits.

Perhaps even more impactful, though, is the revised engine calibration. Ferrari has adjusted its hybrid deployment strategy to maximize ERS power out of slow corners, where Hamilton has typically struggled to stay competitive. The new map promises sharper throttle response, better traction, and smarter energy harvesting—key factors for both qualifying and race pace.

Built for Hamilton’s Driving Style

What makes this upgrade even more compelling is that it wasn’t just built for the car—it was built for Hamilton. Ferrari engineers analyzed thousands of data points comparing Hamilton’s telemetry to teammate Charles Leclerc’s, then used that data to shape the new setup.

The brake-by-wire system has been recalibrated, and chassis response softened in specific areas to suit Hamilton’s unique driving rhythm. It’s a clear signal from Ferrari: they are now designing with their star driver in mind, not just the car.

More Than Technical: The Psychological Impact

This shift in performance isn’t just about lap times—it’s psychological. Hamilton has endured a bruising start to his Ferrari career. No podiums. Constant questions. Mounting pressure. A successful weekend in Canada would be more than a statistical recovery; it would be a declaration.

Team Principal Fred Vasseur recently broke his silence, reaffirming Ferrari’s intent to fight now—not wait for the sweeping 2026 regulation changes. According to Vasseur, components have already been submitted to the FIA, and others are deliberately being kept under wraps to outmaneuver rival teams. It’s a high-stakes game of chess, and Ferrari believes they’re finally making the right move.

A Pivotal Race Weekend

This all leads to one question: Will it be enough?

Montreal is often where momentum swings in a season. It’s not just about the technical challenge; it’s about driver bravery and car confidence. Get it right, and the result can redefine a narrative. Get it wrong, and questions will grow louder.

For Hamilton, a solid result—especially a podium—would silence many critics and reaffirm why Ferrari brought him in. But a failed upgrade? That could spark internal doubt, media pressure, and further destabilize what was meant to be a dream move.

What’s at Stake

Let’s be clear: this weekend in Canada could be a defining chapter in Ferrari’s and Hamilton’s 2025 campaign. It’s about more than points—it’s about direction. Hamilton has remained remarkably composed through the storm, but patience isn’t infinite. If this upgrade brings Ferrari into the fight, expect a very different second half of the season.

But if it doesn’t? The consequences could ripple beyond Hamilton’s morale. Engineering credibility, leadership confidence in Vasseur, and even Ferrari’s long-term driver strategy could come under scrutiny.

Final Thoughts: Redemption or False Dawn?

It’s rare in Formula 1 that you get a “second debut,” but that’s what this feels like for Lewis Hamilton. If the SF-25 upgrade delivers, we could witness a comeback story worthy of the Ferrari legacy. A podium in Canada wouldn’t just be a result—it would be a statement.

But the stakes are brutally high. A misfire would leave Ferrari scrambling once again and Hamilton staring down a season slipping away. Everything hinges on the performance of this reimagined SF-25.

So, is this the start of something special? Or just another glimmer of hope that fades under the Montreal skyline?

One thing is certain: we’re about to find out.

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ITV soap Emmerdale has announced yet another fresh face to the village – with actor Joe Absolom set to be joining the cast this summer in a dark upcoming storyline

 Joe Absolom will be joining the cast of Emmerdale(Image: ITV)

There’s another fresh face expected in Emmerdale this year. The ITV soap has just announced that acclaimed actor, Joe Absolom, will be joining the cast this summer, playing Ray, an old contact of Mackenzies.

TV fans will recognise Joe from his wealth of television, theatre and film credits, including Doc Martin, The Bay and most recently playing the role of Braden Moore in Code of Silence.

Soap fans will also recognise the star from his role Matthew Rose in BBC soap EastEnders from 1997 to 2000.

Speaking on his upcoming role in the soap, Joe said: “Well what an honour to join such a talented team at Emmerdale! It’s an iconic show and I’m grateful to be part of it. I can’t wait to see what’s in stock for Ray!”

Joe Absolom will join Emmerdale as Ray(Image: ITV)

As for his upcoming storyline, the soap have revealed that the character, like many others, will have a dark side. Ray will arrive at the farm claiming to be selling farm machinery but it won’t be long before his true drug dealing ways become clear.

Despite Ray’s calm and collected exterior, it’s clear a menacing streak hides just below the surface.

The cast and crew are thrilled to have John on board, as Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “We are thrilled to welcome Joe Absolom to the cast. It’s fantastic to have such a high calibre and immensely talented actor join our wonderful team to play the role of Ray.

The news comes after Ryan Hawley made his shock return to the soap

“Charming, charismatic and effortlessly likeable, Ray is an extremely complex character who very quickly shows his dark and villainous side to some of our most loved villagers, leaving them in no doubt as to what he’s capable of”.

Earlier this year, the soap welcomed Celebrity Big Brother star Bradley Riches as Lewis Barton.

It was announced in March that Bradley, 23, known for his role on Netflix’s Heartstopper, had joined the cast of the long-running soap opera, and has now become Emmerdale’s first openly neurodivergent character.

As well as new faces, the soap has also introduced one very familiar face back to the village. This week, fans were left in shock when Ryan Hawley reprised his role as Robert Sudgden, crashing his ex husband Aaron Dingle’s wedding.

In an interview with Lorraine, the star teased his character was back to “win Aaron back and bring down John Sugden.”

Coronation Street fans may want to get the tissues next week, as the soap are set to air the final goodbye for PC Craig Tinker – but one resident fails to attend

There’s emotional scenes in Coronation Street this week as residents gather for Craig Tinker’s funeral (Image: ITV 

It’s set to be an emotional week in Coronation Street next week as Craig Tinker gets the send off he deserves after being brutally killed. However, things are thrown into chaos when one resident fails to show up.

We’ll also see Betsy sneakily visit someone in prison, and a shock arrest for another unlikely resident.

The funeral day starts off in panic when Sarah’s concerned to discover that Kit’s already left for the day. Lisa is then forced to step in and make a heartfelt speech at the funeral after he’s still no where to be seen. But where is Kit?

Kit finds Brody injured in an alley

It’s also a tough week for Lisa – as Carla confides in Betsy that she’s worried for her partner. However, Betsy only adds to the worry as Lisa soon catches her daughter snooping through some of her old files.

If the emotions of the weeks on goings weren’t enough for Lisa, she’s set for another shock when she learns her daughter has lied about her whereabouts.

Unbeknownst to Lisa, Betsy shows best friend Lauren a picture on her phone of the letter she found containing information on her mum, Becky, and is intent on getting answers.

Lisa finds Betsy snooping through her files

She then seeks support from Lauren, who accompanies her to the prison visiting room where she prepares to meet Logan, the villainous brother of Mason and Matty Radcliffe. Betsy tells him she’s here to find out what really happened to Becky. But will Logan’s return come with the answers she needs?

However, it’s not long before Steve lets slip to Lisa and Carla that Betsy has lied about her whereabouts and in fact ordered a cab to Highfield Prison. How will Lisa and Carla react?

Betsy’s not the only one in trouble – as Maria’s shock altercation leaves her in trouble with the police.

During the Platts barbeque, Maria demands Lou empties her pockets after assuming she’s stolen money from Shona. But are Maria’s accusations correct?

Maria is arrested on suspicion of ABH(Image: ITV )

The drama later escalates when Lou is found on the living room floor with a broken coffee table – with Maria standing over her.

The police quickly arrive and tell Maria they’re arresting her on suspicion of ABH. But did she do it?

Elsewhere, there could be more upset for Todd after saying goodbye to his mother Eileen last week. He’s left gutted when Theo cancels their date – could their relationship be on the rocks?

Lewis Hamilton’s SF-25 Under Fire: FIA Launches Investigation into Ferrari Braking System

In a development that’s sent tremors through the Formula 1 world, Lewis Hamilton’s SF-25 has become the focus of an intensive FIA investigation following the Spanish Grand Prix. What began as a routine technical inspection has unraveled into a full-blown controversy that could have seismic consequences not only for Ferrari’s 2025 season but also for Hamilton’s much-anticipated tenure with the Scuderia.

Ferrari had finally seemed to stabilize its season with back-to-back podium finishes, hinting at a return to form. But that momentum has been abruptly halted. Technical data leaked shortly after the Barcelona race has triggered an inquiry into the legality of Hamilton’s car, casting a shadow over Ferrari’s recent resurgence and calling into question their compliance with F1’s stringent technical regulations.

A Routine Inspection Turns Into a Crisis

Per FIA standard protocol, several cars are randomly selected for deeper post-race inspections. At the Spanish Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc’s SF-25 was one of the chosen vehicles. While initial checks cleared Leclerc’s car, FIA engineers zeroed in on one very specific area: the rear braking system.

They analyzed hydraulic pressure distribution, actuator behavior, torque feedback loops, and the car’s interaction with the electronic control unit (ECU). Though no violations were immediately found, something in the telemetry raised eyebrows — not with Leclerc, but with Hamilton’s car.

The data flagged inconsistencies in how braking pressure was applied during crucial race phases. These weren’t direct breaches of performance regulations, but the unusual patterns prompted further scrutiny. The FIA responded by demanding a full telemetry dump from Hamilton’s car over the past three race weekends.

What the FIA Discovered

Over 48 hours, engineers from both Ferrari and the FIA pored over sensor readings, actuator logic, and brake map algorithms. The analysis revealed a key detail: Hamilton’s SF-25 was running a slightly altered rear brake control algorithm — not present in Leclerc’s setup. The code, it appears, was customized to match Hamilton’s driving style and braking preferences.

While customizing car setups to suit drivers is common, the FIA is now examining whether this specific modification violates Article 2.4 of the Sporting Regulations, which mandates driver equality within a team. If Hamilton’s brake system provided a subtle yet consistent advantage — even if unintended — it could be interpreted as an unfair performance discrepancy.

Hamilton Blindsided and Frustrated

Sources close to Hamilton suggest the seven-time world champion was caught off guard by the investigation. After leaving Mercedes in search of a new challenge and a united team dynamic, he now finds himself at the center of regulatory controversy. Hamilton has reportedly demanded transparency from Ferrari’s technical team and is requesting simulation data to confirm whether the altered brake system was properly vetted and approved.

Privately, insiders say Hamilton is growing frustrated. This is not the clean slate he was promised — and certainly not the environment he envisioned when joining Ferrari to chase an eighth title and bring glory back to Maranello.

Ferrari in Emergency Mode

Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur has reportedly convened emergency meetings with senior engineers and compliance officers. Their immediate goals are twofold:

To convince the FIA that the variations in Hamilton’s setup were legal, non-performance enhancing, and properly documented.

To ensure both drivers will run identical brake systems at the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix — a track notorious for punishing even the slightest braking misjudgments.

The timing couldn’t be worse. Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a high-brake-load track, with heavy deceleration zones such as Turn 10’s hairpin and the final chicane. Any enforced changes to Hamilton’s brake mapping could destabilize his rhythm, impair tire management, and compromise his race strategy.

Bigger Picture: Technical or Cultural Rift?

This investigation exposes a deeper, more complex issue at Ferrari — the clash between two internal philosophies. One faction believes exploiting every legal gray area is the only way to keep pace with Red Bull and McLaren. The other — reportedly aligned with Hamilton’s camp — urges caution, transparency, and long-term consistency over short-term advantage.

This isn’t Ferrari’s first brush with controversy. The team was disqualified from a race earlier in the season for floorboard infringements in China. Now, critics are wondering whether Ferrari is pushing too hard, too fast — and risking reputational damage in the process.

What Could Happen Next?

The FIA has made it clear this investigation is far from over. Further inspections of Ferrari’s brake logic and ECU configurations are expected during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend. If discrepancies are found — even minor ones — Ferrari could face a range of consequences:

A formal reprimand or fine

Loss of constructor points

Forced standardization of brake systems between drivers

A directive that could impact how all teams handle driver-specific setups going forward

In a worst-case scenario, Ferrari may be ordered to rewrite their software logic, a process that would take weeks and possibly eliminate any competitive edge they’ve gained.

Implications for the 2025 Season and Beyond

Ferrari is currently trailing McLaren by nearly 200 points in the Constructors’ Championship. Another setback could effectively end their hopes of challenging for the title this season. But more alarmingly, the FIA’s verdict could set a precedent that reshapes how driver-specific car configurations are interpreted under the rules.

For Hamilton, the stakes are personal as well as professional. He came to Ferrari to cement his legacy — to become the legend who restored the Scuderia’s former glory. Now, his confidence in the team is being tested. If Ferrari cannot provide him with a competitive and compliant car, the psychological damage could eclipse any technical penalty.

The Whole World is Watching

As the paddock descends on Montreal, this investigation has become the dominant storyline in Formula 1. Rival teams are watching, fans are speculating, and the media is dissecting every word coming out of Maranello.

Will Ferrari adapt and recover? Or will internal tensions, regulatory pressure, and shaken driver morale derail their season?

One thing is certain — this story is far from over. The next few race weekends will define Ferrari’s trajectory for the remainder of 2025 and could determine whether Hamilton’s bold career move becomes a legendary comeback or a cautionary tale.

Stay tuned.

Full Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJcItCjFweU

Brian Wilson in 2015

Bruce Springsteen has paid a heartfelt tribute to late “maestro” Brian Wilson.

On Wednesday, family members announced that the co-founder of the Beach Boys had died at the age of 82.

A cause of death wasn’t announced, though Brian had been diagnosed with dementia in February 2024.

Following the sad news, Bruce took to Instagram on Thursday to issue an emotional statement.

“Brian Wilson was the most musically inventive voice in all of pop, with an otherworldly ear for harmony. He was also the visionary leader of America’s greatest band, The Beach Boys. If there’d been no Beach Boys, there would have been no Racing In The Street,” he wrote, referring to his 1978 track. “Listen to Summer’s Gone from The Beach Boys’ last album That’s Why God Made The Radio and weep.”

To conclude, Bruce declared he had “nothing but love and a lovely lasting debt” to the Good Vibrations hitmaker.

“Farewell, Maestro,” he stated.

In addition, Dolly Parton shared her own message in honour of Brian via Instagram Stories.

“I never was a beach babe, but I loved his music like everybody else. I thought Brian Wilson was a genius, and I still think it,” the country music icon commented.

Meanwhile, Beach Boys co-founder Al Jardine remembered Brian as his “brother in spirit”.

“You were a humble giant who always made me laugh and we will celebrate your music forever. Brian, I’ll really miss you… still I have the warmth of the sun,” he praised.

And in a lengthy statement, Beach Boys vocalist Mike Love described his “beloved cousin” as a “genius”.

“From the first time we sang together as kids in my living room, I knew there was something otherworldly in him. His musical gifts were unmatched. The melodies he dreamed up, the emotions he poured into every note – Brian changed the course of music forever,” the singer added.

Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton

To say that the start of the F1 2025 season hasn’t gone to plan for Lewis Hamilton and Scuderia Ferrari might be something of an understatement.

But according to the seven-time World Champion, he’s not calling it quits any time soon. In fact, he told media at the Canadian Grand Prix, “I literally only just started.”

Lewis Hamilton vows to stick it out with Ferrari

Ferrari may currently be sitting second overall in the World Constructors’ Championship standings, but that success hasn’t come without hardship.

For one thing, McLaren is clearly the dominant team in 2025, racking up 362 points to Ferrari’s 165. Mercedes and Red Bull are both nipping at Ferrari’s heels, and the SF-25 has proven to be a handful for both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

The highlight of Hamilton’s season — a pole-to-win victory during the sprint race in China — was almost immediately overshadowed by the double Ferrari disqualification after the Grand Prix.

With Hamilton saying he’s never felt worse behind the wheel than in the Spanish Grand Prix, rumours have swirled about his commitment to the Scuderia. Is Hamilton set to retire?

And heading into the Canadian Grand Prix, doubts were raised about Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, with Corriere della Serra reporting that the boss’ position is under scrutiny, with hypercar head Antonelli Coletta poised to replace him.

But speaking to media during the official FIA press conference ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Hamilton was bullish that both he and Vasseur will remain with the team for the time to come.

Hamilton was very quickly asked to address speculation about Vasseur’s role at the team — something he admitted he’d only recently been made aware of.

“It’s definitely not nice to hear that there’s stories like that that are out there,” he said before going on to talk about his experience with the outfit.

“Firstly, I love working with Fred. Fred’s the main reason I’m in this team and got the opportunity to be here, which I’m forever grateful for. And we’re in this together. We’re working hard in the background. Things aren’t perfect, but for me, I’m here to work with with the team, but also with Fred.

“I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top. And so that’s that.”

Though he did admit that the season hasn’t been easy, some sort of departure on Vasseur’s end is “not any part of the discussion at the moment.”

When pressed on the subject later, Hamilton said that swapping Vasseur for a new team principal is “certainly not something that I would be supportive of.”

After noting that there are always inevitably challenges with embedding new personnel into a team — be they drivers or team principals — Hamilton vowed, “I’m here to win with Fred, and he has my full support.”

Then, he compared the Vasseur rumours to the ongoing allegations that Hamilton might leave Ferrari.

“And then also to everyone that’s writing stories of me considering not racing — I mean, I literally only just started, firstly, here with Ferrari, and I’m here for several years,” he said.

“I’m here for the long the long haul. So there is no question in where my head’s at and what I’m working towards achieving with this team.

“So there’s zero doubts. Please stop making up stuff.”

Later in the press conference, Hamilton seemed to imply that he feels his struggle with the team will be brief.

“We’re in that period where we obviously have to start working on next year’s car,” Hamilton said.

“The car I’m racing right now is not a car that I’ve had input in developing and evolving over the past four years. I’m driving a car that Charle has obviously been a part of developing [and] knows very, very well.

“It’s challenging, but I’m enjoying that challenge.”

So far, it sounds like Vasseur will continue to helm the Scuderia, with Hamilton as one of his drivers.

The Red Bull Conundrum: Is Yuki Tsunoda’s Struggle Opening the Door for a Rookie to Rewrite the Team’s Future?

In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, few challenges are more daunting than being the teammate of a once-in-a-generation driver like Max Verstappen. As Red Bull faces one of its most crucial seasons yet, the spotlight is firmly fixed on the driver in the second seat—a seat that has become a pressure cooker of expectations, scrutiny, and strategic gamble.

Yuki Tsunoda’s Tumultuous Season: A Disaster in the Making?

After Red Bull parted ways with Sergio Perez at the end of 2024, they pinned their hopes on fresh talent from their junior ranks. First came Liam Lawson, who barely lasted two races before being shown the door. The next hope was Yuki Tsunoda, whose promising early performances have now sharply declined, culminating in a string of poor qualifying results and inconsistent race pace.

Former FIA steward Derek Warwick did not mince words, publicly branding Tsunoda’s tenure a “disaster” and suggesting Red Bull made a grave mistake letting Perez go. “Yuki’s quick but he’s had a disaster,” Warwick commented. “It almost shows Perez was doing a better job than we gave him credit for.”

Tsunoda’s lackluster form is more than just a PR headache; it’s costing Red Bull vital Constructors’ Championship points. While Verstappen dominates with an astonishing 100 points in just six races, Tsunoda has mustered a mere seven points, a gap that threatens Red Bull’s competitive edge.

The Verstappen Effect: Crushing Careers in the Shadow of Greatness

Being Max Verstappen’s teammate is not just about raw speed; it’s about surviving the immense pressure and expectations that come with that role. Red Bull’s previous second drivers—Daniil Kvyat, Alex Albon, and Sergio Perez—have all struggled to consistently match Verstappen’s pace. The legendary team principal Helmut Marko has highlighted Tsunoda’s struggles, especially in hot conditions and on softer tires, emphasizing that the growing gap in qualifying performance could jeopardize Red Bull’s championship aspirations.

Even former world champion Nico Rosberg has weighed in, advising the team’s young phenom Isaac Hajar against rushing into the senior seat, warning that the “Verstappen Firestorm” can be career-ending if entered unprepared.

Enter Isaac Hajar: The Rookie Poised to Shake Up the Status Quo

Amidst the turmoil surrounding Tsunoda, a quiet storm brews at Red Bull’s junior squad, Racing Bulls. Isaac Hajar, a 20-year-old French driver, is quickly making waves. No longer just a promising talent, Hajar is delivering concrete results, including multiple points finishes and an impressive sixth place in Monaco—achieved through sheer merit, outpacing established names like George Russell and Fernando Alonso.

Yet, despite his rising star status, Racing Bulls’ CEO Peter Bayer has been cautious, even suggesting that the team should “handcuff” Hajar to Racing Bulls a while longer, wary of pushing him too quickly into the unforgiving Red Bull senior seat. This cautious approach echoes a hard-earned lesson: raw talent alone isn’t enough. Timing, confidence, and a supportive structure are critical to flourishing in the pressure cooker that is Red Bull’s Formula 1 team.

The Perez Wild Card and Strategic Dilemmas

While speculation swirls about Perez’s future—rumored talks with Andretti and Alpine for 2026—there’s a whisper that Red Bull might consider bringing him back as a mid-season stabilizer should Tsunoda’s struggles persist. Perez’s value was never about matching Verstappen outright but delivering consistent points, protecting Verstappen’s strategy, and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Such a move would represent a significant U-turn for Red Bull, signaling a preference for short-term gains over the long-term development of junior drivers. But with the technical partnership with Honda ending in 2025 and multiple regulation changes looming, Red Bull simply cannot afford instability.

The Stakes: Beyond Just 2025

This isn’t just a story about who occupies the second seat this year. It’s about Red Bull’s future as a dominant force in Formula 1. With Verstappen’s contract reportedly containing performance-related exit clauses and the engine supply landscape shifting, the team faces enormous pressure to maintain competitiveness—not just for trophies but to retain their star driver.

Three Strategic Paths Forward

Red Bull’s options can be summarized into three distinct strategies:

Stay the Course with Tsunoda: As Derek Warwick advocates, the team could back Tsunoda fully, providing him the confidence to grow and improve under pressure. Continuity has its merits, and Tsunoda might yet find his footing with time.

Promote Isaac Hajar Now: A bold, high-risk move that could inject fresh energy into the team but risks burning a promising talent before he reaches his peak, mirroring the fates of previous second drivers who struggled under pressure.

Hybrid Approach—Bring Back Perez Mid-Season: Allow Hajar to continue developing with Racing Bulls while reinstating a proven point scorer to stabilize Red Bull’s title challenge this year. This would be unconventional but might strike a balance between performance and development.

The Wild Card: Engineering Around the Drivers

Another less-discussed option is a tactical shift in car setup and strategy, potentially designing the RB21 mid-season around Verstappen’s driving style to compensate for a weaker second driver. This approach, while risky, isn’t unprecedented and could buy Red Bull time to refine their driver lineup without immediate upheaval.

The Long Game: Patience, Timing, and Resilience

Insiders reveal that Helmut Marko, often a decisive voice at Red Bull, has become more conservative behind closed doors, wary of rushing Hajar and repeating past mistakes. “Timing is everything,” Marko reportedly says, emphasizing that survival in Verstappen’s shadow requires more than talent—it demands resilience, confidence, and structural support.

What’s Next for Red Bull and F1?

As the 2025 season unfolds, the pressure cooker intensifies. Whether Red Bull doubles down on Tsunoda, elevates Hajar, rehires Perez, or pivots car strategy, their decision will reverberate across the grid. The second seat at Red Bull isn’t just a job; it’s a proving ground that can define careers and alter the balance of power in Formula 1.

For fans and insiders alike, the unfolding drama offers a compelling narrative: a young rookie’s rise, a struggling talent’s redemption quest, and a team wrestling with how best to maintain its dominance amidst unprecedented challenges.