Exam season is ‘up and running’ in Vernon’s home but he’s nowhere to be seen!

TV star Vernon Kay has revealed he’s been escaping his family home during a “stressful” time with his youngest daughter.

The 51-year-old presenter, who is married to Tess Daly, opened up about his youngest daughter, Amber, 15, as she prepares for her GCSEs.

Vernon and Tess share two daughters (Credit: Splashnews.com)

Vernon Kay admits ‘stress’ as daughter takes exams

During his BBC Radio 2 show on this week, Vernon explained that he decided to go and play golf to get away from the exam pressures.

“Friday, I treated myself to a couple of holes of golf,” he told listeners. Vernon continued: “I was terrible, it was awful.”

He then revealed more about why he felt the need to flee: “We had a bit of stress with GCSEs, so I had five minutes and it was really bad, so I went and had a golf lesson on Saturday morning, and it got worse.”

A listener called in and asked how many golf balls Vernon had lost on the course. Appearing to hint that he is about as good at dealing with exam stress as he is golf, the DJ responded: “Baby steps, baby steps, that’s what they keep telling me.”

Over to Tess for the revision, it seems, especially as this isn’t the first time Vernon has opened up about his daughter’s exams. In May, he revealed that exam season was “up and running” in his house.

The conversation began after a listener shared they were trying to get their son to revise. The former Family Fortunes host joked that he can remember taking his exams. “Well, I don’t…I’m lying, it was so long ago – 1990 I did mine,” he said after stating that exams are “stressful”.

Vernon admits his youngest daughter’s GCSEs have been ‘stressing’ him out (Credit: Splashnews.com)

‘We go out all the time on the sesh together’

Vernon also shares a 20-year-old daughter with Phoebe with Tess, 56.

While attending the Vanity Fair EE Rising Star party in February, she opened up about her relationship with her father, admitting she isn’t afraid to be seen partying with him.

“My dad and I are more like best mates – that’s how we get on. We go out all the time on the sesh together,” she told the MailOnline.

Loose Women’s Stacey Solomon has been updating fans from her solo trip to Italy where she’s been busy working, but also managed to find some time to soak up some sun

Stacey Solomon dazzles in crochet bikini on Italian getaway (Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

Award-winning TV presenter Stacey Solomon is currently soaking up the sun on a solo trip abroad as speculation swirls about the mum-of-five’s next big project. The Loose Women panellist looked sensational as she stepped out in an orange bikini as she enjoyed another day in Italy earlier this week.

Stacey, who is rumoured to be considering an offer to join the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing line-up, looked every inch the fashionista as she enjoyed some downtime by the pool at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental in Lake Como.

BBC bosses are said to be keen to get Stacey on the Strictly dancefloor later this year. Stacey has previously admitted she would love to do the show but has “two left feet.”

Stacey Solomon looked amazing as she enjoyed a break by the pool(Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

“I have rhythm with singing or listening to music, but when it comes to moving my feet, I’m left-footed, I have two left feet. I’d be one of those people who would go out in week one, and they’d be like, ‘Well, that was a waste of time!’” Stacey confessed in an interview in 2022.

But BBC bosses disgrace and think she “could surprise a lot of people, including herself”. Judging from the snaps of Stacey in Italy this week, the multi-talented star is in good shape and could clearly handle a stint on the dancefloor.

The former X Factor finalist, 35, cut a glamorous figure as she topped up her tan in a crocheted two-piece orange swimsuit on Tuesday, accessorising with chic sunglasses, gold hoops, a necklace and an orange floral hair clip.

(Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

Stacey has been updating her loyal followers on Instagram about her solo trip without husband Joe Swash and her brood of kids. The 35-year-old TV is in Italy for work commitments with Rehab Hair – a brand Stacey invested in after using it as a customer first.

The busy mum seems to be making the most of her scenic surroundings, embracing a well-deserved moment of relaxation amid her professional commitments. Any hint of marital issues with Joe didn’t appear to be on her mind as she proudly wore her wedding band on her ring finger during her break by the pool.

Eyebrows were raised recently when EastEnders legend Joe got candid about their marriage and admitted he and Stacey are stuck in “a constant battle”. Between them, Joe and Stacey juggle a bustling household with six children.

(Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

The couple share Rex, aged five, Rose, three, and two year old Belle. Stacey brings two sons from previous relationships into the mix, Leighton, 12, and Zachary, 17, while Joe, 43, is a dad to son Harry, also 17, from his past relationship with Emma Sophocleous. The pair split when Harry was just a tot, leading Joe to fight for access through the courts.

Yet, it’s the modern-day challenge of managing screen time that’s proving tough for Stacey and Joe, who’ve dubbed phone use as “a privilege”. They’ve set firm rules, allowing Rex just an hour of game time over the weekend, but only if he’s well-behaved at school and finishes his chores.

In a recent chat with Huffington Post, Joe shared insights into their “battle” over screen time and the reluctant concession they make for their son’s weekly gaming. He remarked: “But even that, me and Stacey begrudgingly let him have that.”

(Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

He continued, expressing their parental concerns: “It’s difficult, it’s a constant battle … And even then, when he’s playing the games, we’re constantly watching what he’s doing, what games he’s playing. It’s something that concerns us, you know?”.

Last week, Stacey hit back at a nasty online troll who cruelly likened her to a “horse” on social media. The reality star and ‘Loose Women’ favourite took to Instagram to address the unpleasant comparison made in her comments. Stacey explained that despite usually ignoring negative remarks, this particular comment was too prominent to overlook.

(Image: Elena/Paride / BACKGRID)

“But this message is literally staring me in the face, it’s at the top of my comments on my last story. So I couldn’t get away from it.” Maintaining her composure, she mused: “I don’t know if I’m supposed to be offended or take it as a compliment. But I actually think horses are really pretty.”

Talking to her driver, Steve, Stacey narrated the incident and humorously shared his supportive response: “Steve’s not having it! Horses are quite pretty Steve,” with Steve adding, “Maybe it’s because of your nice teeth.”

In conclusion, Stacey expressed heartfelt gratitude towards her supporters for their positive responses: “Love you all,” she enthused. “Honestly I have the best family on here ever! Genuinely I don’t mind what people think of me. Truly I feel bad for mean people.”

Stacey then opened up about her gratitude for the support she’s received, saying: “But I think that’s mostly because I have the most amazing family, the most supportive friends (like Steve) and the nicest extended family on here. So thank you for being a massive part of my confidence and happiness. I love you all. And we must protect Steve at all costs.’”.

George Russell has stepped into the role of being Mercedes’ new team leader on the back of Lewis Hamilton’s defection to Ferrari, yet he is still out of contract after 2025.

The Silver Arrows awarded both British drivers new deals in August 2023, which the Brackley bunch hoped would lock Hamilton and Russell in through the 2025 F1 season. But Mercedes actually signed Hamilton to just a one-plus-one-year contract, which he broke to join Ferrari.

Russell has shown so far this season that he can now be the team leader Mercedes lost with the 27-year-old scoring 111 of their 159 points through the first nine rounds. However, team boss Toto Wolff is still to sign off Russell’s expected £46m new two-year Mercedes contract.

Neither Mercedes driver is currently under contract beyond this season, with rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli only given a one-year deal to replace Hamilton. Mercedes have pursued Max Verstappen, as well, to raise questions over Russell’s future, but he is set to stay at Red Bull.

Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images

Charles Leclerc’s ‘inner circle’ admit he could now leave Ferrari with Mercedes an option

Still, while Verstappen is ready to stay at Red Bull in 2026 before considering his future again at the end of next year, Russell remains on shaky ground with Wolff a huge fan of Ferrari star Charles Leclerc. And the Monegasque may now be ready to leave the Scuderia for next year.

That is according to Corriere della Sera, which reports that Leclerc’s ‘closest circle’ have now ‘let slip’ that the 27-year-old is questioning honouring his contract with Ferrari through 2029 to its full extent. Leclerc has release clauses in his Ferrari contract he may even activate now.

Leclerc’s confidence in his Maranello natives is not as strong as it once was. So, he no longer rules out looking at rival teams, as Leclerc’s ‘fear’ is being stuck with an uncompetitive car if Ferrari fail to hit the ground running next year amid the major 2026 F1 regulation overhaul.

Mercedes are expected to have the best 2026 F1 rules engine, which has put a move on the theoretical table for Leclerc as he considers what moves might be on offer. Wolff has always held Leclerc in very high regard, too, so Mercedes may axe Russell to steal the Monegasque.

Oscar Piastri’s championship-leading form may have fuelled Charles Leclerc’s uncertain Ferrari future

Ferrari signed Leclerc to a £25m a year contract through 2029 in January 2024, right before the Scuderia also confirmed they had struck an agreement with Hamilton in February 2024 to leave Mercedes and move to Maranello come the 2025 F1 season as his new teammate.

Yet Leclerc’s ‘inner circle’ now admit the Monegasque may walk away from Maranello much sooner. It has also likely not escaped his attention that McLaren racer Oscar Piastri has taken seven wins in the past year – only one fewer than Leclerc has since he joined Ferrari in 2019.

Leclerc has eight career Grand Prix victories, 26 pole positions and 46 podiums from 156 starts so far. Piastri is already on four poles and 18 podiums in 55 Grand Prix starts so far, and could even win the F1 drivers’ championship this season as he leads after nine rounds.

Lewis Hamilton’s Bold Decision: Shaking Ferrari’s Foundations and Changing Formula 1’s Future

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, Lewis Hamilton—the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion—has made a daring public call that has left Ferrari’s entire operation stunned. At a pivotal point in the 2025 season, rather than continuing the fight with Ferrari’s troubled SF25 car, Hamilton has urged the team to pull the plug on the current campaign and instead focus entirely on the development of their next-generation 2026 car, Project 678.

This is no mere hint or private discussion. Hamilton’s statement, broadcast openly, is a seismic shift in Ferrari’s strategy and a clear message: the SF25 is fundamentally flawed and beyond redemption. Despite months of upgrades, promises, and intense effort, the car cannot be salvaged this year—and continuing to pour resources into it is futile.

A Season Marked by Frustration and Setbacks

Since joining Ferrari, Hamilton has faced one obstacle after another. The SF25 was supposed to be a leap forward—a car that could finally challenge the mechanical grip and aerodynamic superiority of Red Bull and McLaren. Instead, the car has proven volatile, unpredictable, and incredibly limited in its development potential.

From the first races of 2025, warning signs emerged. Hamilton struggled to find pace in critical race stints, suffered a humiliating disqualification in China due to a technical directive and ride height violation, and endured mishaps such as a GPS breakdown in Monaco qualifying that sidelined him before the race even began. These moments weren’t isolated bad luck; they were symptoms of deep-rooted technical flaws.

Meanwhile, Ferrari trails McLaren by nearly 200 points in the Constructors’ Championship, with Hamilton stuck in sixth place in the Drivers’ standings, far from any meaningful title contention. Charles Leclerc has scored all three of Ferrari’s podium finishes so far, highlighting a clear performance gap within the team.

The Timing and Its Tremors

What makes Hamilton’s decision so extraordinary is the timing. The season is far from over, with crucial races such as Canada, Silverstone, and Spa yet to come. Most teams, even when struggling, push through to the end of a season hoping for a late turnaround. But Hamilton is already thinking ahead—he wants Ferrari to abandon their current project and invest fully in the 2026 regulations that promise a revolutionary shakeup in Formula 1.

The 2026 regulations will introduce active aerodynamics, 50% electrification, sustainable fuels, and radical technical changes that could reset the competitive order. Ferrari’s Project 678 is their bid to be at the forefront of this new era, but such a massive pivot requires focus and resources now, not later.

Hamilton’s call forces Ferrari management, particularly Team Principal Fred Vasseur, into a high-stakes leadership test. Should they continue pushing upgrades on the SF25 with limited potential, or commit fully to Project 678 and risk conceding this season? This isn’t just a technical decision—it’s political, strategic, and deeply personal.

Internal Dynamics and Potential Fallout

The internal consequences of Hamilton’s statement are already rippling through Maranello. Historically, Ferrari has resisted such mid-season pivots, maintaining cautious optimism about salvaging the current car. Vasseur himself has been optimistic, believing upgrades to the floor and rear suspension might unlock the SF25’s performance.

But with Hamilton’s public demand, that optimism is suddenly undermined. Behind closed doors, sources report a shift in wind tunnel time and simulations toward the 2026 car, signaling a partial acceptance of Hamilton’s position. The rear suspension upgrade may be the final major modification to the 2025 car before attention fully turns to the future.

This shift could fracture the team’s unity. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s other lead driver, has maintained belief in the upgrade path and isn’t ready to abandon the 2025 season just yet. This difference in mindset between Ferrari’s two star drivers could put additional strain on the garage atmosphere, complicating communication and collaboration during races.

The High Stakes Gamble

Hamilton’s push is more than just frustration—it’s a strategic gamble. Abandoning the 2025 season publicly concedes defeat to McLaren and others dominating the midfield. It means the rest of the year becomes a testing ground, a preparation period rather than a pursuit of glory.

But it could also be the smartest move to keep Ferrari competitive long-term. Other top manufacturers like Mercedes, Red Bull, Porsche, Honda, and Audi are quietly racing toward their 2026 packages. Every week Ferrari spends chasing incremental improvements on the SF25 is a week lost in the 2026 development race.

Hamilton’s decision signals urgency. “Give me the car I deserve,” he’s effectively saying, “or watch me struggle with one hand tied behind my back.” His leadership may be exactly what Ferrari needs—an experienced driver with the courage to call out problems and demand change.

What This Means for Ferrari and Formula 1

This moment could define Ferrari’s modern legacy. Will the team cling to a flawed concept in hopes of a miracle turnaround, or will they boldly embrace change and innovation under Hamilton’s leadership?

If the team commits fully to 2026, it could mark the dawn of a new Ferrari era. Project 678, designed around revolutionary rules, might finally restore Ferrari to championship contention. Hamilton’s influence and experience could accelerate development and bring a fresh competitive mindset.

But there is a risk: internal divisions could deepen, trust could erode, and the 2025 season might devolve into a demoralizing exercise in damage control.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Scuderia

Lewis Hamilton’s public call to shift focus away from the SF25 and toward Ferrari’s future 2026 project is a bold statement loaded with implications. It’s a challenge to Ferrari’s management, an ultimatum to engineers and designers, and a leadership move that could make or break the team’s fortunes.

Whether Ferrari answers this call will shape not only their upcoming seasons but potentially the entire landscape of Formula 1. As the summer run of races unfolds, all eyes will be on Maranello—not just to see if the SF25 can be salvaged, but to witness how one driver’s courage and clarity might ignite a transformation for one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efxiOj_9O94

Michael Schumacher is the joint-most successful driver in F1 history at the Canadian Grand Prix, having won the race seven times in the Ferrari legend’s illustrious career.

Only Lewis Hamilton has ever won the Canadian GP as often as Schumacher was triumphant in the Great White North to date. The two seven-time champions even boast four more wins at the Canadian GP than their nearest rivals, Nelson Piquet Sr and Max Verstappen on three.

Schumacher and Hamilton also account for 12 of the 53 pole positions secured in Canada to date with six each. They also both sealed both of their tallies at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, which has run the Canadian GP since 1978 after races at Mosport Park and Mont-Tremblant.

Hamilton won his first F1 race at the 2007 Canadian GP, as well, for one of his two wins with McLaren in Montreal. Schumacher secured his first Canadian GP win with Benetton in 1994, before sealing six with Ferrari after also winning the 1997, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003 races.

Photo by Andreas Rentz/Bongarts/Getty Images

Ralf Schumacher claims Michael Schumacher was ‘happy’ to lose the 2001 Canadian GP to him

Schumacher also took his Canadian GP wins from pole position in 1997 and 2000. Yet even though the German failed to convert his pole into the win at the 2001 Canadian GP, Michael left Montreal ‘happy’ as he lost to Ralf Schumacher for his second of just six career victories.

Michael beat Ralf to pole in 2001 by 0.515 seconds, as the Schumacher siblings locked out the front row of the Canadian GP grid driving for Ferrari and BMW Williams. The former also held the latter off at the start, but Ralf would emerge as the triumphant brother by 20.235s.

Ralf Schumacher produced record pace lap after lap to chase Michael after a safety car after Rubens Barrichello and Juan Pablo Montoya crashed on Lap 20. His superior single-lap pace ultimately made the difference once Michael pitted on Lap 46, as Ralf relished the overcut.

Michael Schumacher simply had no answer to Ralf’s pace in clean air, as the Williams driver utilised his BMW V10 engine to leave his more successful sibling in his shadow at the 2001 Canadian GP. And Ralf now recalls how Michael was ‘happy’ to be the second-best brother.

Ralf told Sky Germany: “When you look at the pictures from the 2001 race, it’s a beautiful thing. It was a great experience, especially that we both managed it. We were both happy, and Michael was happy too, that I was at the front for once; that rarely happened.”

Ralf and Michael Schumacher became the first brothers to share an F1 podium at the 2001 Canadian GP

10 Jun 2001: Ferrari driver Michael Schumacher (left) of Germany and McLaren-Mercedes driver Mika Hakkinen (right) of Finland shower race winner Williams-BMW driver Ralf Schumacher (centre) of Germany with champagne after the Canadian Formula One GrandPrix held at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit, …
The 2001 Canadian GP was only the second Grand Prix win of Ralf Schumacher’s career in F1 and the 20.235s lead that he opened over Michael Schumacher after pitting on Lap 51 of 69 also saw them make history as the first brothers to stand on a Formula 1 podium together.

Yet it was not the biggest winning margin that Ralf would hold throughout his six Grand Prix wins in total. He also won the German Grand Prix in 2001 by 46.117s to Barrichello, plus the 2002 Malaysian Grand Prix by 39.700s to Montoya and with a 61.795s lead to Michael in P3.

Yet the only time that Ralf Schumacher won a race from pole position came with his last F1 win at the 2003 French Grand Prix. He edged Williams teammate Montoya to pole by 0.117s at Magny-Cours and won by 13.813s over the Colombian with Michael 19.568s behind in P3.

Photo: © IMAGO

Ford’s global director Mark Rushbrook has revealed how long the manufacturer intends to remain in F1 ahead of their partnership with Red Bull in 2026.

As Red Bull parts ways with engine manufacturer Honda next season, Ford will instead join the Red Bull Powertrains project as the six-time constructors’ champions become self reliant on their own power.

The partnership will begin in 2026, just as the new regulations sweep the sport, where there will be a 50/50 split between electrical performance and combustion engine.

Speaking to Autosport, Rushbrook emphasised Ford’s commitment to F1 long-term and how important electrical power is to their continued presence in the sport.

“That is definitely our intent [to remain in the sport long-term],” he said.

“We’re committed to working with all the other stakeholders for what is the right thing for the future of this sport.

“Is it going to be exactly what any single manufacturer wants? No. But that’s part of the process, because at the end of the day, if that discussion is exactly what we want and every other manufacturer leaves, then it’s not a healthy sport either.

“We know that and the other manufacturers know that as well. So you’ve got to work together for the good of the sport, the health of the sport and that basically means being partners off the track. You want to race each other fiercely on the track, but you need to work together off the track.”

Could F1’s proposed new rules deter Ford?

Earlier this year, the FIA considered a return to V10 or even V8 combustion engines run on sustainable fuel, although the governing body stated after the Bahrain Grand Prix that future engines will still carry an electrical component.

Electric power is one of the main reasons why engine manufacturers such as Honda and Audi decided to enter the sport in 2026, and it is equally as important to Ford according to Rushbrook.
Ford enter F1 with Red Bull in 2026
“Yes. For Ford Motor Company, we believe there should be some form of electrification in there,” he continued.

“That’s part of what attracted us to the 2026 rules. It’s all about that balance between the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and electrification. Does it need to be 50-50? No, not necessarily.

“As long as we have the opportunity to contribute, to learn and to bring knowledge to our road cars, then that’s ideally what we’re looking for.”

The Incredible Impact of Lewis Hamilton’s Brand New Floor: Ferrari’s Game-Changer in 2025

After weeks of speculation and anticipation, the latest upgrade from Ferrari has emerged from the shadows—and it’s nothing short of sensational. At the heart of this technical revolution lies Lewis Hamilton’s brand new floor for the SF25, a component that insiders at Maranello are already calling one of the most significant breakthroughs the team has made in years. This isn’t a minor tweak; it’s a transformative leap in performance that could redefine Ferrari’s entire 2025 campaign.

The Backstory: Why the Floor Matters

In modern Formula 1, aerodynamic efficiency is king, and the car’s floor—often an unseen but crucial element—is the powerhouse of the aerodynamic package. It manages airflow under the car, generating vital downforce that helps keep the car planted at high speeds and through corners. Until now, Ferrari’s SF25 struggled with a floor design that was limiting the car’s potential. The airflow under the car was turbulent, the diffuser performance compromised, and the car’s balance unstable, especially in medium to high-speed corners.

This instability manifested on track in several ways: the rear of the car felt nervous and unpredictable, understeer was a persistent problem, and tire degradation was worse than rivals. For Lewis Hamilton, a driver known for his precision and smooth style, these issues made extracting peak performance a daily challenge.

The Breakthrough: Testing the New Floor

Behind closed doors in Maranello, Ferrari engineers quietly ran simulations and track tests focused on one critical component—the floor. Using advanced modeling and real-world data, they identified that the floor was the bottleneck holding back the SF25’s potential.

The breakthrough came in early tests at the Red Bull Ring before the Austrian Grand Prix, where the revised floor was tested by Charles Leclerc and a junior test driver. While Hamilton hadn’t yet driven the new spec, the telemetry data was explosive. Engineers described the difference as “night and day”: the car was vastly more stable, more responsive, and notably faster through medium and high-speed corners.

The rear, once prone to sudden loss of grip, now felt planted and predictable. This stability meant drivers could push harder without second-guessing the car’s behavior, an enormous psychological and performance boost.

What Changed? The Tech Behind the Floor Upgrade

Ferrari’s upgrade focused on redesigning the Venturi tunnels—the underbody channels that create ground effect downforce. Previously, airflow in these tunnels was turbulent and prone to stalling during lateral cornering forces, which led to loss of grip and inconsistent handling.

The new floor features re-profiled Venturi channels with a carefully rebalanced pressure gradient, keeping airflow attached to the car even under heavy cornering loads. This translates to more consistent grip, especially when the driver turns into corners aggressively—precisely where Hamilton had struggled.

Additionally, Ferrari reworked the interaction between the diffuser and the gearbox casing, streamlining airflow as it exits the floor to reduce turbulence. Changes to the central keel improved directional stability, particularly under braking—a key complaint from Hamilton earlier in the season. Where the old floor caused unpredictable shifts in aero balance under deceleration, the new design keeps the car stable, allowing later braking and more confident corner entries.

Lap Time Gains and Tire Management

The numbers speak volumes. In back-to-back stint simulations under race conditions, the new floor delivered lap time improvements ranging from 0.3 to 0.6 seconds per lap—massive gains in F1 terms. These improvements come without sacrificing reliability or cooling, areas where Ferrari has historically been cautious.

Perhaps even more impactful is the effect on tire wear. Previously, the SF25 suffered uneven tire degradation and overheating on the rear axle. The new floor produces a much more even thermal profile across the rear tires, reducing wear by approximately 17% per stint on average. This means Hamilton can push harder for longer, defend his position more aggressively, and attempt strategic maneuvers like overcuts with greater confidence. For a driver who excels at racecraft and exploiting tactical windows, this is a game-changer.

The Psychological Shift for Hamilton

For months, Hamilton had been wrestling with a car that simply didn’t listen to his input. He showed remarkable patience, adapting his driving style and maintaining composure despite the SF25’s quirks. But the new floor is rewriting that narrative.

Telemetry and team feedback indicate Hamilton is now driving with renewed confidence—no more tentative approaches to corners, no more hesitation in applying power. Instead, the car’s behavior is in sync with his instincts: smoother, sharper, and more committed through apexes. Radio messages reflect less frustration and more control. Hamilton has moved from managing problems to actively hunting performance.

What This Means for the Rest of the Season

The floor upgrade isn’t just about making the SF25 less erratic—it’s a foundation for further development. Ferrari has a suspension upgrade planned for Silverstone designed to complement the new floor by stabilizing the chassis through elevation changes and fast directional shifts, issues that have plagued Hamilton all season.

Together, these upgrades will create an effective “B-spec” car—one fundamentally reworked and optimized to compete for wins rather than settle for midfield battles. This sets Ferrari up not only to close the gap but to strike back aggressively in the championship fight.

With improved aerodynamic consistency, reduced sensitivity to ride height, and better grip, Hamilton can push the car lower to the ground without destabilizing the rear. This means more downforce, better lap times, and stronger qualifying performance, especially on demanding tracks like Silverstone and Spa.

The Broader Implications for Ferrari

The new floor has delivered more than just performance—it has delivered hope. After a challenging start to 2025, Ferrari’s technical breakthrough has energized the team and restored belief in their championship credentials. This upgrade signals that Maranello is no longer merely chasing the competition but is positioning itself to lead.

If Hamilton continues to extract the newfound pace and Ferrari maintains this development momentum, 2025 could be remembered for one of the most dramatic mid-season turnarounds in recent F1 history. All of this began with a single piece of carbon fiber hidden beneath the car, quietly changing the game.

Conclusion: A New Era for Hamilton and Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari has been marked by highs and lows, but this floor upgrade represents a pivotal moment—a shift from frustration to possibility. It’s the first time Hamilton has had a car in Maranello that truly matches his talent instead of fighting against it.

The stability, balance, and performance gains are not just numbers on a screen—they translate into lap times, race results, and renewed belief. Ferrari has unlocked potential long thought out of reach, and with the second wave of upgrades on the horizon, the fight for the 2025 championship just got a whole lot more interesting.

For fans and competitors alike, the message is clear: the game has changed, and it all started with one insane new floor.

The Red Bull Shuffle: Isak Hajar, Yuki Tsunoda, and the Fight for F1 Glory

Formula 1 is no stranger to drama, especially when it comes to driver lineups. As the 2025 season heats up, the spotlight shines brightly on the Red Bull family, where a brewing storm of talent and tension threatens to reshape the grid. At the heart of this drama are two contrasting figures: the struggling Yuki Tsunoda and the blazing hot Isak Hajar — a young prodigy making waves in the junior ranks. With Red Bull’s ruthless reputation for promoting only the best, the stakes have never been higher.

Yuki Tsunoda: A Rising Star Losing Steam?

When Yuki Tsunoda burst onto the Formula 1 scene with AlphaTauri in 2021, many hailed him as a future superstar. His aggressive style, raw pace, and fearless overtakes drew praise from pundits and fans alike. He even managed to secure AlphaTauri’s best results in years, including scoring points at his home Grand Prix in Japan.

But as 2025 unfolds, Tsunoda finds himself in troubled waters. After a surprising mid-season swap that saw Liam Lawson replaced by Tsunoda at Red Bull’s senior team, expectations soared — but results have faltered. Seven points from seven races, multiple failures to progress beyond Q1, and a string of underwhelming performances have raised eyebrows. Team advisers have voiced concerns about his adaptability, especially when track conditions get tricky.

Why the sudden decline? Part of the challenge stems from Red Bull’s evolving technical landscape. With Honda exiting as engine supplier after 2025, Tsunoda’s future is entirely performance-driven, with no safety net. The once Honda-backed driver must now prove his worth strictly on merit — or risk losing his seat.

Enter Isak Hajar: The Junior Sensation

Meanwhile, in the fiercely competitive Red Bull Junior team, 20-year-old French-Algerian Isak Hajar is tearing up the F2 paddock. His rookie season stats are impressive: scoring points in more than half of his first nine races, a top-six finish in Monaco, and a maturity on the track that has caught even the toughest critics off guard. Red Bull insiders whisper that Hajar is too hot to ignore.

Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has been candid: he literally pleaded with Red Bull to “handcuff” Hajar — to hold him back from a premature promotion to Formula 1. The logic is simple yet brutal: rushing a young talent into F1 without a solid foundation could be career suicide. Hajar’s long-term development is at stake, and the harsh spotlight of F1, especially with a teammate like Max Verstappen, can quickly crush a budding star.

This sentiment isn’t just internal politics. Nico Rosberg, 2016 F1 World Champion and current pundit, publicly advised Hajar to decline any immediate F1 promotion. According to Rosberg, mastering the junior categories fully before stepping up builds resilience and racecraft necessary to handle the pressures of a top-tier team. Christian Alers, a former F1 racer, even warned Hajar to steer clear of Red Bull entirely, citing the brutal competition and near-impossible shadow cast by Verstappen.

The Red Bull Driver Machine: No Second Chances

Red Bull’s reputation in F1 is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the team has a proven track record of cultivating world champions, including Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. On the other, it is notorious for ruthless talent management — there’s no loyalty for underperformers. Drivers like Daniel Ricciardo and Pierre Gasly have faced harsh mid-season ousters when results didn’t meet expectations.

This cutthroat culture sets the stage for the unfolding drama around Tsunoda and Hajar. Red Bull’s zero-tolerance policy means Tsunoda’s continuing struggles put him under immense pressure. A mid-season shakeup isn’t just possible — it might be inevitable. If Hajar looks race-ready, the team won’t hesitate to pull the trigger, replicating scenarios like Nick de Vries’ swift 2023 exit after failing to deliver.

The Max Factor: Why Verstappen’s Shadow Matters

Max Verstappen isn’t just a driver; he’s the nucleus around which Red Bull’s entire operation revolves. Team strategy, car development, and driver management are all tailored to support his bid for dominance. This creates a challenging environment for any teammate or rookie hoping to break through.

Sources inside Red Bull suggest that maintaining a stable, distraction-free environment for Verstappen is a key reason behind any hesitation to promote Hajar too early. Red Bull doesn’t want rookie mistakes, internal team drama, or politics to disrupt the championship momentum. That said, this can leave talents like Hajar caught in limbo — forced to bide their time or risk being sidelined.

The Potential Shakeup: What’s Next?

As the season progresses, four main scenarios could unfold:

Scenario A: Tsunoda finds his form, adapts quickly, and retains his seat into 2026 — a redemption story many would welcome.

Scenario B: Hajar earns a mid-season promotion, forcing Tsunoda out or possibly relegating him to a loan deal. This would mark a bold move from Red Bull but not without risks.

Scenario C: Liam Lawson, who has shown flashes of brilliance in substitute roles, returns to the senior seat, while Hajar remains in juniors for another year.

Scenario D: Red Bull hesitates too long, risking losing Hajar to rival teams like Williams or Haas, igniting a new contract war reminiscent of the Oscar Piastri saga.

Each option carries high stakes — constructor points, sponsorship deals, team chemistry, and, most importantly, the long-term health of young drivers.

Conclusion: The High-Stakes Game of F1 Talent Management

Formula 1 is as much a psychological and political battlefield as it is a motorsport. Red Bull’s empire is built on raw speed and ruthless decisions. While they have an uncanny ability to create champions, they also burn many promising careers along the way.

The stories of Yuki Tsunoda and Isak Hajar perfectly illustrate this dynamic. Tsunoda’s recent struggles highlight the brutal realities of performing under pressure without technical or political support. Hajar’s meteoric rise, on the other hand, showcases the immense talent waiting to explode — if nurtured correctly.

As fans, we can only watch and wonder: Will Isak Hajar become the next Max Verstappen or the cautionary tale of a brilliant talent lost too soon? Will Yuki Tsunoda rise from the ashes or fade quietly into F1 history?

With the summer break looming and rumors swirling of a mid-season shakeup, one thing is certain — the Red Bull driver saga is far from over. Stay tuned, because in Formula 1, the race off the track is just as thrilling as the one on it.

The Beach Boys frontman Brian Wilson has died at the age of 82, his family have announced in a tearful tribute shared on social media, prompting an outpouring of condolences

The Beach Boys star Brian Wilson has died. The news has prompted tributes to the acclaimed singer-songwriter, who had a decades-long career in the music industry.

His family announced that the musician, who was 82, has died in a statement that has been released this afternoon. Alongside a photo of Brian sitting on a park bench, they shared their heartbreak over his death and said in the caption that they were aware that they are sharing their grief with his fans

Brian’s family wrote: “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away. We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realise that we are sharing our grief with the world. Love & Mercy.”

The musician rose to fame as a member of the beloved band alongside his two siblings. Brian was part of the original line-up with his late brothers Dennis Wilson and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love and pal Al Jardine.

Alongside providing vocals for the group, Brian also wrote and produced music for the Beach Boys. He’s credited as having written some of their best known songs like Wouldn’t It Be Nice, Good Vibrations and God Only Knows.

The Beach Boys first began releasing music in 1961 and went on to have chart success with singles like Surfin’ U.S.A. and I Get Around, which were both released in the 1960s. Their debut album, Surfin’ Safari, was released back in 1962.

Brian’s family paid tribute to him in a statement released this week ( 
Image:
brianwilsonlive/Instagram)
During that decade, Brian experienced what he described as the first of several “breakdowns”. It happened on board a flight with his bandmates in 1964. Years later, he recalled the incident and the aftermath to Rolling Stone magazine.

He shared that he later had a three-hour conversation with his late mother, Audree Wilson, and told her things he’d “never told anyone,” adding that she “sort of straightened [him] out”. He said that he “dumped out a lifelong hang-up”

Brian added that weeks later, he made the decision not to tour anymore, but to continue working on material for the group. He recalled at the time: “I told them I foresee a beautiful future for the Beach Boys group, but the only way we could achieve it was if they did their job and I did mine.”

The musician continued to speak about mental health in the years since and partnered with the Campaign to Change Direction in 2015 in a bid to raise awareness. He suggested in a statement at the time that he wanted to “bring the conversation of mental health in America out of the shadows”.

Brian has also spoken about the impact of his past drug use. He told Rolling Stone in 2016: “I want people to realise that drugs can be very detrimental and dangerous.”

It’s been announced that singer-songwriter Brian Wilson has died, aged 82 ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
He told BBC News that year that psychodelic drugs had “screwed” his brain up. Brian, who suggested that his brain got “more creative” as a result, also told the outlet that he had continued to experience auditory hallucinations. He said in the interview with the outlet nine years ago: “I hear them every day.”

Brian continued to work on music for the Beach Boys in the 1970s and 1980s though. During that period, they released singles such as Lady Lynda, Wipeout! and Kokomo – all of which charted in the UK at the time. Wipeout! reached number 2.

As well as being considered a commercial success, the Beach Boys’ legacy includes having been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. The group were also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys in 2001.

Although best known for his work with the band, Brian also pursued a solo career at times. His self-titled debut album was released in 1988, and he’s released numerous albums since, most recently At My Piano, which came out in 2021.

It was reported last year that Brian, who has been described as a “genius” in his career, had dementia. The news of a “neurocognitive disorder” came following the death of his wife, Melinda Ledbetter.

Brian had been married to Melinda, who died last year, since 1995. Prior to their relationship, he had been married to Marilyn Rovell, with whom he shared his daughter Carnie Wilson and Wendy Wilson, who followed in his musical footsteps, with them members of the group Wilson Phillips.

Asked about what he would like his legacy to be, Brian told CGTN America in 2016: “As a good harmony maker.” He further commented: “Melody writer and a song writer, but mostly the harmonies I did with the Beach Boys.”

The news of Brian’s death has prompted tributes. One fan wrote on X: “The music world lost a legend today. RIP Brian Wilson.” Another said: “Brian Wilson has passed away at age 82. He gave us the sound of innocence, the ache of longing, and the harmony of hope. Today, the world is quieter without him. Thank you for the music, Brian.”

He’s best known for having been a member of the Beach Boys alongside Dennis Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine and Carl Wilson ( 
Image:
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
A third fan wrote: “One of the greatest Americans to ever live has just passed. Brian Wilson, beyond being perhaps the most talented musician this country has ever produced, you were a creative titan, an innovator. Your perseverance through the jungles of mental health was inspiring. Thank you.”

The Rolling Stones’ Ronnie Wood referenced the recent news that fellow musician Sly Stone had died. Ronnie wrote in a post: “Oh no Brian Wilson and Sly Stone in one week.” He added: “My world is in mourning. So sad.”

Seán Ono Lennon, the son of the Beatles’ John Lennon and artist Yoko Ono, wrote: “Anyone who really knows me knows how heart broken I am about Brian Wilson passing. Not many people influenced me as much as he did. I feel very lucky that I was able to meet him and spend some time with him. He was always very kind and generous. He was our American Mozart. A one of a kind genius from another world.”

Photo: © IMAGO

A former F1 driver has claimed that Lewis Hamilton could retire from the sport if Ferrari’s form does not improve quickly.

Hamilton’s fairytale switch to Ferrari has failed to materialise into a fight for a record-breaking eighth world title, and the seven-time world champion currently languishes 23 points behind his team-mate Charles Leclerc in the drivers’ standings.

The 40-year-old’s frustrating season once again took a severe turn at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Hamilton was overtaken by the Sauber of Nico Hulkenberg and declared his own performance as ‘terrible’.

Speaking to Plejmo, former F1 driver and active FIA steward Derek Warwick claimed that if Ferrari’s car does not improve for Hamilton he could leave the sport entirely.

“I think if it carries on the way it is at the minute, I suspect he’s already thinking of stopping,” he said.

“I think we all saw him moving to Ferrari as a great opportunity to win his eighth world title.

“The car is not to his liking at the minute. Most critics will say he’s a seven-times world champion, 105 grand prix wins, surely you adapt to the car you’ve got, because Charles has.”

Leclerc bests Hamilton at Ferrari so far in 2025

Hamilton encountered a similar problem in his final season at Mercedes, where he was regularly outpaced by his younger team-mate George Russell who out-qualified the champion on 19 occasions in 2024.

Similarly at Ferrari, Hamilton’s main weakness appears to be his qualifying speed in relation to Leclerc, but demonstrated in Barcelona that he is also lacking race pace after his team-mate managed to achieve another podium finish.

Charles Leclerc has achieved three podium finishes in 2025
“For some reason he can’t get used to it,” Warwick continued.

“I think people underestimate, including Lewis, maybe how difficult it is to join a new team.

“How to get used to their systems, their debriefs, getting them to understand what you want and vice versa.”

In addition to Hamilton’s temperamental relationship with the SF-25, the champion has also been involved in several tense exchanges with his race engineer Riccardo Adami, only fuelling the narrative that he is struggling to embed himself at Ferrari.