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Prince Harry is reportedly set to invite his father the King to the next Invictus Games in Birmingham, which takes place in two years’ time – but one royal expert has sent a warning

Prince Harry and his father King Charles(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Prince Harry has posed a direct challenge to King Charles with his latest ‘olive branch’ move, according to an expert.

It has been claimed that Harry plans to invite the King and other royals to his next Invictus Games in Birmingham, with email invitations set to be sent later this month. It would be the strongest indication yet that the Duke of Sussex wants to bring his family back together.

The next Invictus Games is being held at the NEC in Birming from July 10 to 17, 2027, and it is claimed that sending invitations soon would give Charles and the rest of the royals the best chance of attending. Just weeks ago, Harry revealed that he is no longer speaking to his father, but admitted that he would like reconciliation with him and his older brother, Prince William, amid their bitter feud.

Harry and Meghan at the last Invictus Games in Vancouver (Image: (Image: Getty))

But according to royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, if the King does indeed receive an invitation to the Games, it poses a huge dilemma. He told the Express: “He [King] is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Invictus is a major military charity. Also, as head of state, he is a symbol of national unity. If he accepts, he would be putting duty above what obviously is a painful public rift between him and his family and the Sussexes. It will be argued that that is his job.

“However, it might involve extremely serious problems for the Royal Family, who rightly do not trust the Sussexes. If the King accepted it, this would involve public contact with Harry and almost certainly Meghan and his grandchildren, Archie and Lili.”

He continued: “The invitation to attend Invictus represents a direct challenge to King Charles. Much will hinge on how he replies and what subsequently happens.”

The rift between the Sussexes and the royal family opened significantly following their interview with Oprah Winfrey, during which they alleged a member of the family was concerned about their son Archie’s skin tone before he was born.

Harry with his two children(Image: Instagram/meghan

Then the duke claimed in his controversial memoir, Spare, that William physically attacked him, that the King put his own interests above Harry’s and that Kate and William were jealous of Meghan.

But Harry’s decision to speak out appears to have worsened the chances of an end to his estrangement. There are suggestions that the King, who is still being treated for cancer, and the Prince of Wales will fear more than ever that any conversation with the duke would end up in the public domain.

Meanwhile, it remains to be seen when the games are held in the UK in just over two years if Harry will bring his wife Meghan and children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet with him.

Last month, Harry lost his appeal against the dismissal of his High Court claim against the Home Office over the decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) that he should receive a different degree of protection when in the UK.

Speaking at the time, he said the Court of Appeal decision means it is now “impossible” for him to bring Meghan and their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet back to the UK safely.

In an interview with the BBC, he said: “I can’t see a world in which I will be bringing my wife and children back to the UK at this point and the things they are going to miss is everything. I love my country and always have done…despite what some people in that country have done.

He continued: “So I miss the UK. I miss parts of the UK. Of course, I do. I think it’s really quite sad that I won’t be able to show my children my homeland.” A spokesman for Invictus said: “No formal invitations have been issued as preparations are in the early stages.”

During his visit to the NATO summit at The Hague, Donald Trump met with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands – and many spotted a peculiar gesture by Maxima

A senior royal has been accused of mocking Donald Trump as they made an appearance together on live TV. The US president had been attending a NATO summit in The Hague, and during his time in the Netherlands, he was invited to stay at the Huis ten Bosch Palace, one of the Dutch King Willem-Alexander’s official residences.

After his stayover at the palace, the US president joined the King and his wife Queen Maxima for a photocall, which was broadcast live on TV. Trump stood in between the royal couple for a photo and gave the thumbs up as he told the photographer: “That’s the picture we want!” The King then asked Trump: “You slept well.

Donald Trump with the Netherlands’ King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima(Image: AP)

To which the president replied: “It was great.” A photographer then shouts: “Thank you all very much” and Trump adds: “Thank you very much”. And in an incredible moment, Maxima looks at the president before turning to the camera and making a gesture with her lips, which some have taken as her mocking him.

Trump joined world leaders including Prime Minster Keir Starmer for the NATO summit yesterday, where it was agreed more money would be put towards military spending.

However, the Dutch King and Queen aren’t the only royal couple to have an encounter with the president. Yesterday, it was reported that Trump is to make a full state visit to the UK later this year as King Charles and the US president’s busy diaries mean they are unable to meet informally first over the summer.

The Times reported that Keir Starmer has gone against the wishes of the King by bringing Mr Trump’s “bells and whistles” state visit forward to September. The newspaper said the Palace had been hoping for a more leisurely approach building towards the state visit, amid concern over Mr Trump’s threat to make Canada the US’s 51st state.

Many accused Maxima of mocking Trump

Charles, who is King of Canada, suggested in a letter personally delivered to Mr Trump by Sir Keir in the Oval Office in February that they might meet at Balmoral or Dumfries House Scotland first before the much grander state visit.

But it is understood that, although all options were explored, there were logistical challenges surrounding an informal visit, with complexities in both the King and Mr Trump’s diaries meaning a private meeting was not possible over the course of the summer months.

The diary issues come despite the King heading to Scotland for his summer break each year, and Mr Trump being expected to visit his new, second golf course in Aberdeenshire when it opens this summer.

King Charles is set to welcome Trump to the UK in September (Image: PA)

It is said that the logistical reasons why the private meeting cannot precede the state visit are understood and appreciated by all parties. Formal planning for the official state visit has now begun.

Precedent for second-term US presidents who have already made a state visit is usually tea or lunch with the monarch at Windsor Castle, as was the case for George W Bush and Barack Obama. But Mr Trump is being treated with an unprecedented second state visit for a US president, this time at Windsor.

The Times suggested Sir Keir was hoping to prioritise his attempt to curry favour with Mr Trump and capitalise on the president’s fascination with the royal family.

Asked if No 10 had overruled the King over the visit, a Downing Street spokesman said: “That’s untrue. During his visit to the White House in February the Prime Minister was delighted to extend His Majesty the King’s invite for a historic second state visit to the president and first lady and the president was pleased to accept. Of course, the Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming President Trump.”

Football icon David Beckham was taken to the hospital as Victoria Beckham shared an update on social media

David Beckham is recovering in hospital as loving wife Victoria Beckham shared a snap of him lying in a hospital bed, with his arm in a sling.

“Get well soon, Daddy,” she wrote over the snap of him smiling while wearing a hospital gown. She also gave him a friendship bracelet made with white beads to form ‘Get Well Soon’. The couple have yet to reveal what happened to the former England star.

However, it has since been reported that Sir David underwent secret surgery to repair a broken wrist that he sustained 22 years ago – during a friendly football match against South Africa in 2003. A recent x-ray reportedly showed a screw, which was used at the time, embedded in his forearm after it failed to dissolve properly.

After the game more than two decades ago, which saw him fall awkwardly, he was substituted early in the second half and was taken to the hospital.

David is recovering in the hospital

David recently revealed his long-running career left him with multiple injuries and years of “wear and tear”. He said: “Certain parts of my body were a real mess.”

David’s injury comes amid a family feud with eldest son Brooklyn Beckham and his wife, Nicola Peltz. Brooklyn, 26, and Nicola, 30, have made headlines in recent weeks over speculation of a ‘feud’ with his family, including his parents David, 50, and Victoria, 51. Brooklyn and Nicola have failed to show to recent big events with the Beckham clan – including David and Victoria’s birthday celebrations. Meanwhile, he’s also failed to acknowledge or pay tribute to David and Victoria as they marked recent milestones – including Sir David’s recent knighthood announcement.

However, Brooklyn has been vocal on his adoration for his wife. Expressing his love for Nicola, whom he tagged, Brooklyn teased in the caption that she’s his world. He wrote “my” alongside an emoji depicting the globe. Beside a heart emoji, he also commented over the photo: “My absolute angel.”

A few hours later, he returned to his page to share a message to David’s mother Sandra. He marked his grandmother’s birthday with a post that included a photo of him beside her. Brooklyn wrote: “Happy birthday nanny xx love you so much.”

He even got a ‘get well soon’ bracelet
It is thought to have marked him reaching out for the first time to his family on social media. Meanwhile, David shared a gushing post of his own to celebrate his mother’s birthday. He even gave Brooklyn a nod as he refused to give into the recent slew of social media digs and snubs from his son.

The caption of the post also mentioned David’s son Brooklyn, despite the pair allegedly falling out.

David captioned the tribute post: “Happy birthday mum we love you so much I hope u have the best day Thank you for always being there for us all Love you x @sandra_beckham49 @lynnebeckhambriggs1972 @jo_jo_beckham_ @victoriabeckham @brooklynpeltzbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham #HarperSeven.”

David and Victoria are said to be feuding with eldest son Brooklyn and wife Nicola ( 
Image:
Instagram)Brooklyn has snubbed many big family occasions in the last few months, with him and Nicola not showing up to celebrate Victoria’s 51st birthday or David’s milestone 50th birthday celebrations in Paris and London.

They also remained silent since the news that the former England player has finally been awarded his long-sought-after knighthood.

However, the hot sauce enthusiast made sure to wish Nicola’s father, Nelson, a happy birthday in a sweet post shared on his Stories this week.

“Happy birthday, Nelson, we love you,” he simply wrote.

EastEnders have confirmed that Karen Henthorn is reprising her role as Nigel’s wife Julie Bates this summer – 27 years after she originally left the BBC soap

Karen Henthorn is reprising her role as Julie Bates(Image: BBC)

Karen Henthorn is set to reprise her role as Julie Bates this summer, EastEnders have confirmed. Julie was last seen on the Square in 1997, and is set to return as her husband Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) dementia worsens.

When Nigel returned late last year, he told everyone he had separated from Julie. Later, he admitted that he didn’t want to become a burden to his wife, as he decided to leave to deal with his dementia alone. Viewers have seen Phil Mitchell looking after his friend, however, things have taken a heartbreaking turn as he struggles to cope with Nigel’s deteriorating condition alone.

As Kat saw Phil struggling earlier this week, she told him he needed to call his wife Julie. Although Phil was initially reluctant to go against Nigel’s wishes, it looks like Kat may have persuaded him, as Julie’s return has now been confirmed.

Karen has already started filming alongside Paul(Image: BBC)

It’s been 27 years since Karen last filmed on set – when Julie and Nigel moved to Scotland to start a new life together.

She says it’s been “delightful” to reunite with Paul Bradley. “It’s very surreal to be back in Albert Square after 27 years and working with the delightful Paul Bradley again – it’s scary how fast the time has gone!” she said.

“Julie has got some awful surprises ahead of her after the initial relief she feels to discover Nigel is still alive. It’s been great to film with Paul and Steve (McFadden), who are such lovely actors, as Julie discovers Nigel’s dementia diagnosis and why he chose to hide it from her.”

Speaking on Julie’s return to the Square, Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “We are delighted to have Karen Henthorn returning to reprise her role as Julie, who arrives looking for Nigel.

Karen will be making her return to the Square after 27 years away(Image: BBC)

“Julie hasn’t seen Nigel in almost two years and is unaware of his diagnosis and reasons for leaving, so her arrival will pose questions for the pair of them.”

Despite last being seen on the Square almost three decades ago, Julie’s voice was heard earlier this year, as Nigel listened to a voice mail from his wife. Julie’s voice could be heard saying: “Nigel, it’s Julie again. I don’t know if you got my last message or…

“Listen, Nigel, I promise I’m not cross, whatever reason you walked out and disappeared, I just really need to know if you’re alright mate.”

It’s not yet been confirmed when exactly Julie will appear onscreen, but as Karen has started filming, fans can expect to see her in the coming weeks.

How will Nigel react to her return?

London, UK – Oscar-winning acting legend Dame Emma Thompson has ignited a firestorm of controversy with a sensational call for sex to be officially available on the NHS, declaring it “part of our health plan” and “so good for you.” Her provocative statement, made at a screening of her new film Good Luck to you, Leo Grande, has sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking a furious debate among health experts, public figures, and everyday Brits alike.

Thompson’s comments, stemming from her character’s journey as a widow hiring a young sex worker for a “sexual awakening” in the film, have pushed the boundaries of public discourse, prompting questions about the role of pleasure in public health and the very definition of well-being in modern society.

The Provocative Prescription: “Sex on the NHS!”

 

Speaking candidly at the film event, Dame Emma Thompson left no room for ambiguity. “You need sex because it’s part of our health plan,” she asserted. “It really should be on the NHS, it’s so good for you.” The bold proposal immediately polarized opinion, splitting commentators into camps of enthusiastic agreement, cautious skepticism, and outright dismissal.

The idea of a state-funded “prescription for pleasure” conjures images that range from revolutionary to absurd. While some might scoff, Thompson’s stance forces a re-evaluation of how society views sexual health beyond mere reproduction or disease prevention.

 

Panel Plunge: Enthusiastic Calls vs. Cautionary Tales

 

The proposition was met with a spectrum of reactions from a panel of public figures. Initial responses, like Denise’s enthusiastic “that’s what the doctor ordered, yeah!” seemed to echo Thompson’s sentiment. Denise elaborated, “I think sex is good for you if you like it,” revealing a personal philosophy of separating sex from love, a “man’s attitude” that allows for a “very important” role for intimacy within a loving relationship, but also freedom when not hurting anyone. She acknowledged that not everyone shares this desire, noting friends with “zero desire” for sex after past relationships ended, highlighting the deeply personal nature of sexual needs.

However, the conversation quickly delved into the complexities, moving beyond simplistic endorsements. Kelly, while acknowledging the health benefits, questioned the helpfulness of Thompson’s blanket statement. “It can also be bad for you though, can’t it?” she mused, raising a crucial point about the darker side of desire.

The Dark Side of Desire: Toxic Relationships and False Comfort

 

Kelly powerfully articulated the potential pitfalls of an uncritical focus on sex. She described scenarios where individuals remain trapped in “toxic relationship[s]” or outright “disaster[s]” simply “because the sex is amazing.”

“You stay there because of that part of it and not because it’s you’re connected on any other level, like everything about it is wrong but cuz the sex is good,” Kelly explained, highlighting the detrimental impact such situations can have on one’s life. This stark warning served as a potent counterpoint to the idea that all sex is inherently good, emphasizing that context, connection, and emotional well-being are paramount. A physical act, however pleasurable, cannot compensate for fundamental relational dysfunction, and indeed, can exacerbate it.

 

Beyond the Act: The Call for Intimacy and Connection

 

Adding another layer of depth to the debate, Janet, reflecting on her generation’s experience with “the pill,” noted the shift in societal attitudes towards sex. While acknowledging the liberation she personally experienced (“I’ve had a lot of fun in my time”), she argued that modern society has become “too hung up on how much sex, how who you’re doing it with, how you’re doing it and what your gender is and everything else.”

Janet passionately advocated for a return to fundamentals: “Instead of that we should be focused more on intimacy and connection because… that is the most important thing in any relationship is feeling comfortable with the person you are with and having a connection.” Her words resonated with Kelly’s observation that sex within a “not a good relationship” can be profoundly unsatisfying or even damaging. The consensus among these panelists was clear: the narrow focus on sex itself is “too slim”; it should be “a kind of broader sort of healthy connection thing.”

The NHS Waiting List Nightmare (and the Pressure Cooker of Modern Sex)

 

The practical implications of Emma Thompson’s proposal also sparked a dose of British humour and biting social commentary. The idea of “sex on the NHS” immediately conjured images of the notorious healthcare waiting lists. “You’d be on a waiting [list]!” quipped one panelist. “It won’t be a spontaneous thing, love, you’ll be waiting for that phone call or that letter that arrives after the appointment!”

The absurd image of diligently shaving legs, getting “all ready,” only for an NHS sex appointment to be “cancelled” and rescheduled for “next week,” highlighted the impracticality of such a proposition in a system already stretched to breaking point. The panel further poked fun at the bureaucratic possibilities: “Can you imagine the options as well? Press one!”

Beyond the laughter, a serious point emerged about the immense pressure permeating modern discussions around sex. “There’s so much pressure on people now,” it was observed. “You can’t read a newspaper or go online without reading how to have better sex in middle age, how to have better sex at 70.” This constant barrage of advice and expectation creates an environment where sex feels like a performance metric rather than a natural, intimate expression. The plea was made for society to “give it a break” and perhaps, as one panelist playfully suggested, focus on “how to grow better carrots” instead.

Dame Emma Thompson’s bold call for “sex on the NHS” has certainly achieved its goal of sparking conversation. While the idea provides a “great headline,” the ensuing debate, rich with personal experience and nuanced perspectives, quickly revealed its “simplistic” nature. The national discourse has shifted from a mere bodily function to a deeper exploration of connection, intimacy, and the potentially detrimental aspects of separating physical acts from emotional well-being. Ultimately, the consensus suggests that genuine health and happiness are found not in a medical prescription for sex, but in the complex, often messy, but always vital landscape of healthy human relationships.

Photo: © IMAGO

No, before you ask, Sebastian Vettel is not plotting an F1 return to drive for Red Bull. Instead, he could take on a role altogether more powerful and integral to the team’s success.

The German spearheaded Red Bull to championship glory and won back-to-back world titles from 2010 until 2013, before leaving to chase a fifth drivers’ title at Ferrari.

When this did not materialise, Vettel switched to Aston Martin and eventually announced his retirement in 2022. Since Vettel’s F1 exit, there have been calls for the beloved champion to return to the sport, not just as a driver but also in an official capacity with Red Bull.

Speaking to ORF TV’s Sport am Sonntag podcast, Vettel recently revealed that he has engaged in early talks with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko about succeeding the Austrian in his role at the team.

“There have been a few headlines recently. I still get along great with Helmut, and we’re in contact regarding the topic,” Vettel explained.

“[Talks are] not yet that intensive or in-depth, it’s perhaps something that could play a role. In what form remains to be seen.”

Red Bull are in need of a shake-up. The team have a persistent problem with their second seat, and it has proved costly not just in the constructors’ championship but for Red Bull’s image.

But there is a solution. When the time eventually comes for Marko to retire, Vettel is the answer to their second seat dilemma.

Sebastian Vettel is essential to Red Bull’s F1 future

Sebastian Vettel secured four world titles with Red Bull
Alongside Dietrich Mateschitz, Marko is credited with founding Red Bull’s junior programme, which has ushered an enviable lineup of talent into F1.

Marko has helped launch the careers of Vettel, Mark Webber, Daniel Ricciardo and of course Max Verstappen. However, in recent years Red Bull have cycled through their junior drivers at an alarming rate as they have failed to perform alongside Verstappen.

On the one hand, Sergio Perez, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda’s inability to score consistent points for Red Bull over the past year has been partly the fault of the car.

Instead of acknowledging this however, the team made brutal driver decisions rather than working with the talent they have to better understand their issues.

Red Bull also have to consider their future without Verstappen who – even if he remains with the team – will not race in the sport forever.

Despite all that Marko has achieved with the team, his attitude to young or struggling drivers is undoubtedly harsh, labelling Isack Hadjar as ’embarrassing’ after his crash at the Australian GP, one of the many examples of his ‘tough-love’ tactic.

Marko’s attitude has clearly not helped Lawson or Tsunoda perform any better and perhaps a different attitude is needed to carry Red Bull into the future.

Which is why Sebastian Vettel would be perfect.

Vettel could succeed Marko at Red Bull
Not only can the former racer offer advice, insight, and support from a driver’s perspective, but he also possesses the empathy that any youngster needs to thrive in the harsh environment of F1.

Whilst many criticised Lando Norris for his emotional post-race interviews, Vettel instead bolstered this as a strength, saying: “I don’t think it’s a sign of weakness. It might be criticised by some people, but if you look at the broader picture, I think it’s just progress.”

In recent years, kindness and patience towards younger drivers has proven to be a more effective method to ensure their progress, for example, Mercedes’ relationship with youngster Kimi Antonelli.

Toto Wolff has not put any pressure on Antonelli to perform as a rookie, has treated every error as a learning curve, and in return, the young Italian has rewarded them with consistency and a podium finish.

The kindness and humility of Vettel he has developed in recent years, mixed with his expertise and commitment to improving the world for the better is a huge asset to Red Bull, and is the direction they need to take their team in.

Sebastian Vettel would not only help solve Red Bull’s second driver problem, but would also nurture their next champion to help ensure the team’s success post-Verstappen.

The Austrian Grand Prix has been the scene of controversy over the years, largely due to the nature of the circuit and how it promotes racing.

Drivers effectively negotiate only nine corners at the Red Bull Ring, with it being one of the shortest tracks on the calendar.

The long straights are perfect for cars to slipstream, while drivers also have the use of DRS to get close to the other.

It’s why the Austrian GP has produced some great moments over the years, and it could see several records broken this year, including a special one for Kimi Antonelli.

Photo by Luca Martini/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Kimi Antonelli has last chance to beat Lance Stroll record in Austrian GP

Kimi Antonelli already stunned the F1 world with his podium at the Canadian Grand Prix, in which the Mercedes driver overtook title contender Oscar Piastri at the start.

While he was just short of Max Verstappen’s record for the youngest F1 race winner, he can still surpass Lance Stroll’s record for the youngest front row starter.

Stroll set his record at the 2017 Italian GP, where he was promoted to second after grid penalties for both Red Bull’s in qualifying. At 18 years, 10 months and five days, Stroll’s record could be broken by Antonelli by two days.

Elsewhere, if McLaren secure pole and win it will be the 100th time in the history of the team that it has happened, while Verstappen will be searching for a sixth win at the track.

It’s six at the Red Bull Ring because of the addition of the Styrian GP in 2020, with Verstappen on course to potentially allow Red Bull to equal both Ferrari and Mercedes at the track.

Carlos Sainz currently holds lap record at Red Bull Ring

The lap record at the Red Bull Ring is currently held by Carlos Sainz, who set it during the 2020 Styrian Grand Prix while driving for McLaren.

The 1:05.619s was achieved 68 laps into the race, with the Spaniard also bagging an additional point back when that was offered.

F1 has seen a few lap records broken in qualifying this year, but there has yet to have been one set officially during the race.

The Austria circuit features the fewest corners on the F1 calendar, with just 10 turns making up the 2.6 mile layout.

Cadillac are going to be Formula 1’s 11th team in the 2026 season and there are now questions over who might be in their driver lineup.

For the first time since 2016, there will be an extra two spaces on the grid with Cadillac joining as they were granted an early entry after failing under the Andretti guise last year.

Cadillac will use Ferrari engines and gearboxes through the 2026 and 2027 seasons, before GM fully enters with their own power unit from 2028.

It is a massive undertaking for the US squad, although they have also set up a headquarters in the UK in a bid to attract top talent.

Now questions have turned to who will be part of the driver lineup, and while Valtteri Bottas has recently teased a drive at Cadillac, former F1 driver Nelson Piquet Jr thinks they should choose Sergio Perez when speaking on the Pelas Pistas podcast.

Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Nelson Piquet Jr thinks Cadillac should go with Sergio Perez

Perez has been on the rumoured list of candidates for the Cadillac drive, along with current Mercedes third driver Bottas, for some time.

Bottas has been told why a move to Cadillac might be difficult, given that team principal Graeme Lowdon is the manager for his former Sauber teammate Zhou Guanyu.

Piquet Jr thinks Perez might be a better fit for the team, despite his form compared to Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2024.

Piquet: “I think Perez, when he’s not on the same side as Max, his head will be performing better than Bottas. Bottas, regardless of who’s on his side, he was walking next to Zhou last year. He wasn’t always in front, so that means Zhou is also good.

Fittipaldi: “So if you had to choose now, who would it be?”

Piquet: “I would go with Perez because of the money and his head won’t be on the side of Max.”

Bottas has experience in simulator with 2026 car

The good thing for Cadillac is the lack of immediacy needed to choose their drivers, considering they have at least half of the 2025 season to assess options.

Drivers will not be testing their 2026 machines for the first time until February next year, although the team will want to ensure any prospective candidates have experience in the simulator.

This is perhaps one area where Bottas has more experience than Perez, having been part of Mercedes’ simulator programme this year.

Perez by contrast, is not affiliated with an F1 team and is unlikely to have tested a 2026 car yet in the sim, which could impact his readiness next year.

Valtteri Bottas is beginning to make his case that he should be back on the Formula 1 grid next season.

Sauber decided against extending Valtteri Bottas’ contract last year after three seasons with the team.

He finished 22nd in the drivers’ championship after failing to score a point, and Sauber will feel their decision to hire Nico Hulkenberg has already been justified as he sits on the cusp of the top 10 in the standings with 20 points.

Despite the Finn’s struggles last year, Bottas is making a play to return to F1 next season.

Bottas released a viral social media clip alluding to his interest in racing for Cadillac, which will be F1’s newest team next season.

Cadillac haven’t yet decided on either of their new drivers for 2026 as their current priority is getting their first car ready.

Formula 1’s winter testing schedule is going to put Cadillac under further pressure, with the first pre-season outing scheduled for the end of January.

Team principal Graeme Lowdon has a host of drivers on his shortlist for next season.

However, Cadillac have just made a decision that should give Bottas a further boost to his hopes of making a Formula 1 comeback.

Photo by Alessio Morgese / Stefano Facchin/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Cadillac are no longer married to the idea of an American driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season

A report from the German outlet Auto Motor und Sport has shared more details about Cadillac’s plans leading up to next season.

Cadillac have set up a British base near Silverstone and are rapidly hoping to build up their workforce over the coming months.

There are suggestions that Cadillac are paying a premium to hire new staff, although many of them have gardening leave clauses in their current contracts that mean they can’t immediately get to work.

They’ve also got to compete with Sauber, who are opening a satellite facility in the area to help attract the best staff possible who aren’t willing to move to Switzerland or Audi’s German factory.

The report goes on to say that Cadillac hope to borrow a 2023 Ferrari to help them ‘simulate races’ as part of their testing of previous cars’ protocol.

This will allow them to start practising pit stops and other processes that make up a race weekend.

AMuS believe that Cadillac’s driver decision will be ‘resolved this summer’, and they think two experienced drivers are on their wishlist.

Felipe Drugovich is Cadillac’s chosen younger option should they go in that direction, but Cadillac have now decided they no longer need to hand one of their seats to an American.

Mario Andretti has been keen on Colton Herta racing for Cadillac, but he’s still not acquired enough superlicense points to race in Formula 1 next season.

Without the need for an American driver, Bottas has an even better chance of racing for Cadillac next season.

Valtteri Bottas jumps ahead of Sergio Perez in the race to sign for Cadillac

Cadillac don’t need to rush into any decision about their line-up for next season, given the current state of the driver market.

The vast majority of drivers on the grid are already tied down for 2026, and those who aren’t don’t appear to be rushing to join F1’s newest team.

It means the likes of Bottas and Sergio Perez are inevitably going to end up at the top of the team’s shortlist.

Unless Cadillac suddenly decide to dip into Formula 2 and make a play for championship leader and McLaren junior Alex Dunne or the unattached but very impressive Leonardo Fornaroli, the experienced pair will feel they’re in pole position for a return to the grid.

Bottas is said to be ahead of Perez in Cadillac’s thinking now, with Perez also potentially on Alpine’s shortlist.

Cadillac’s representatives are expected to be heading into discussions with agents at the upcoming British Grand Prix.

After Bottas gave his ‘honest answer’ about his talks with Cadillac, it’s up to Lowdon and senior staff at the American team to decide if he’s the experienced head that they need.

McLaren’s Hidden Weapon: How the MCL39 Revolutionized F1 Suspension and Shook the Grid in 2025

In a world obsessed with outright speed and headline-grabbing upgrades, McLaren quietly built something far more profound than just a fast car in 2025. What started as subtle performance gains left rivals puzzled and regulators intrigued—turns out, McLaren didn’t just design a quick machine, they engineered a revolutionary suspension system that redefined what’s possible in Formula 1 without breaking a single rule.

The Silent Ambush

While most of the paddock chased top speeds and aerodynamic tweaks, McLaren’s breakthrough was neither loud nor obvious. Hidden beneath innovative wheel covers and cleverly disguised camera shields, the MCL39 carried a secret weapon—a front suspension system so precise and well-integrated that neither rival teams nor the FIA initially knew where to look.

This wasn’t a simple tweak or minor upgrade. What appeared to be minor aerodynamic gains were, in fact, the result of a ground-up suspension redesign: a radical multi-link setup with a redesigned upper wishbone and an extreme anti-dive configuration seamlessly integrated into the brake ducts. This innovation offered unmatched control over the front tires and tire temperatures, a feat that threw the established order into chaos.

Tire Longevity: The Key to McLaren’s Advantage

Tire management has long been a hallmark of winning teams in F1. Yet, from the very first races in Bahrain and Australia, McLaren’s tire longevity stood out. Their cars maintained optimal grip late into stints, outperforming the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes, teams traditionally lauded for tire preservation.

Thermal imaging during the scorching Miami Grand Prix revealed an uncanny truth: the MCL39 maintained stable tire temperatures even in extreme heat, preserving grip without overheating. This consistency baffled competitors, who filed protests twice suspecting illegal technology or hidden systems. Each time, the FIA’s investigations cleared McLaren—no pumps, no liquid redistribution, no moving parts.

Instead, the answer was elegant mechanical design: a suspension and aerodynamic package so refined it stabilized the car’s platform under braking, acceleration, and cornering, locking the airflow beneath the car and ensuring consistent downforce. This translated directly into minimal tire degradation and a smoother performance curve.

The Science of Stability

Since the 2022 regulation changes reintroduced ground effect aerodynamics, teams have battled to keep their cars stable. The floor must remain glued to the track, but every little dive, pitch, or roll disturbs airflow and destroys performance, causing porpoising and balance issues.

Most teams treat symptoms with patches and add-ons, but McLaren engineered a solution into the very DNA of their chassis. By embracing a bold interpretation of anti-dive suspension geometry—previously a niche obsession of engineers—they crafted a system that controls how the car’s front end behaves dynamically, passively adapting to different driving conditions without electronics or actuators.

This “virtual steering axis” mimics active steering’s benefits but is purely mechanical, shifting the toe angle on straights to reduce drag and cool tires, then adjusting in corners to maximize grip and steering precision. The result is a car that doesn’t react to issues but prevents them from occurring, allowing it to run stably and consistently across varied circuits and weather conditions.

Drivers and Team Dynamics

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, McLaren’s young driving duo, have both benefited from this innovation. Norris sometimes felt the front end was almost “too composed,” lacking typical steering feedback, while Piastri preferred the stable original setup. The team chose not to chase lap times with setup changes but focused on fine-tuning driver connection—an unusual sign of confidence in a car’s inherent balance.

Andrea Stella, McLaren’s team principal, emphasized that the car’s performance was intentional and deliberate: it was about consistent precision rather than erratic speed bursts. This approach sets McLaren apart in 2025, where rivals still struggle with inconsistent tire behavior, thermal spikes, and setup compromises.

The Ripple Effect Across the Grid

McLaren’s breakthrough has forced a strategic reset among the top teams. Ferrari’s frequent updates have yet to yield stable equilibrium, while Mercedes scrambled to reintegrate anti-lift rear suspension elements after mid-season struggles. Red Bull, famed for tire management, has been pushed back to the drawing board, running exhaustive simulations to find passive cooling and airflow improvements.

But the harsh reality is that McLaren’s advantage can’t be simply retrofitted. Their innovation is baked into the car’s architecture from the start—a product of months or years of forward-thinking design and integration. As a result, teams are already shifting focus toward the 2026 regulations, hoping to leapfrog McLaren’s lead.

FIA’s Response: Closing the Door

The FIA isn’t blind to McLaren’s technical masterpiece. In a subtle yet telling move, the World Motorsport Council updated the 2026 regulations to explicitly ban any devices or systems that artificially control brake, hub, or wheel temperatures. Suspension fairings must also be fully enclosed to prevent similar innovations.

While McLaren hasn’t broken any rules, the FIA’s preemptive amendments send a clear message: they want to prevent other teams from exploiting similar loopholes and pushing suspension ingenuity further. For now, McLaren enjoys the fruits of their innovation unchallenged, but the future seasons promise tighter regulatory scrutiny.

What Does This Mean for 2025 and Beyond?

McLaren’s MCL39 isn’t just fast—it’s methodically dominant. While it may not always lead in raw top speed, its strength lies in lap-after-lap consistency, tire preservation, and platform stability. This translates to a car that performs predictably under all conditions, outlasting rivals over long runs and entire race weekends.

With Red Bull’s dominance no longer assured, and Ferrari and Mercedes still chasing balance, the 2025 championship race is wide open. McLaren’s integrated suspension system has fundamentally shifted the performance paradigm from chasing fleeting speed gains to mastering sustainable pace and control.

The Blueprint for the Future

As the season unfolds, McLaren’s suspension innovation stands as the blueprint for future F1 car design. Its blend of mechanical ingenuity, aerodynamic harmony, and thermal control forms a complete system that rivals can only hope to replicate.

The 2025 season might already be slipping away from their competitors, but McLaren’s story is far from over. With two young drivers and a team dynamic built on harmony and precision, they have set a new bar in Formula 1 engineering.

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