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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.

Carlos Sainz will strive to bounce back at the Canadian Grand Prix after matching his worst finish as a Williams driver to date with P14 at home in the Spanish Grand Prix.

The 30-year-old joined Williams in the 2025 F1 season after Ferrari released Sainz to create a space for Lewis Hamilton’s arrival. After a slow start, he had also started to find his feet in Grove with Sainz scoring points in four successive Grand Prix before heading home to Spain.

But the difficulties that Williams have faced at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in recent years continued this term and saw Sainz fail to score a point at home for the first time. The Madrid native had scored points in each of his 10 previous visits to Montmelo before 2025.

Now, Sainz heads to the Canadian GP this week keen to respond after only securing a 14th-place finish in the Spanish GP. It matched his worst finish for Williams to date of P14 in the Japanese Grand Prix, and snapped Sainz’s scoring streak featuring two P8s, a P9 and a P10.

Photo by Clive Rose – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images

Williams ‘fear’ Carlos Sainz is running out of time for a top-five finish ahead of the Canadian GP

The P8 finishes that Sainz achieved in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix are his best results with Williams so far. Yet a better finish may be on the cards at the Canadian GP, as the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve’s heavy braking zones suit Williams’s FW47.

However, according to AS, the Canadian GP could even mark a last-chance saloon for Sainz to join Williams teammate Alex Albon in securing a top-five finish all year. Albon has scored 42 of the Grove team’s 54 points this term, helped by his P5s in Australia, Miami and Imola.

Williams will target another top-five result at the Canadian GP, as Albon and Sainz can take advantage of Montreal’s slow corners. But the ‘fear’ in Grove is that while Williams can put P5 as their target this weekend, Sainz is running out of time to maximise the FW47’s speed.

Sainz needed four rounds to get up to speed with Williams’ car after leaving Ferrari for the Grove crew this year. He has also suffered from strategic mistakes and the ‘fear’ in Grove is that Aston Martin and Sauber could now overtake Williams as they develop their 2025 cars.

Williams fear Aston Martin and Sauber surpassing them before Carlos Sainz has shone

Williams are fully focused on the 2026 F1 regulations and will only drip-feed upgrades to the FW47, if at all. So, Sainz may face his last chance to score a top-five finish in 2025 this week at the Canadian GP as Aston Martin and Sauber both showed in Spain their improved speed.

Fernando Alonso scored the Aston Martin driver’s first points of 2025 in the Spanish GP with P9 after qualifying in P10. But the story of the day at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya was Nico Hulkenberg used Sauber’s upgrades to take his best finish in six years with P5 in Spain.

Sauber have frustrated Red Bull recently, as well, with the Milton Keynes natives annoyed by the progress that the Swiss crew have made with their pit stop speed and consistency since Red Bull’s former sporting director Jonathan Wheatley took over as Sauber’s team principal.

In a whirlwind statement in Derby yesterday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves launched her much-anticipated Spending Review, pledging to “renew Britain” through colossal investment in the NHS, defense, affordable housing, and green infrastructure. Clocking in at £113 billion in capital investment and an extra £190 billion over day-to-day public services, it is billed as a break from austerity—but critics are already blasting it as a thinly-veiled “spend now, tax later” gamble thetimes.co.uk+15ft.com+15thesun.co.uk+15.

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🏥 NHS: Health on the Frontline

Reeves declared the NHS is getting a massive windfall, with £29 billion annual boost and a 50% increase in digital healthcare funding, enhanced scanners, ambulances, and support systems for doctors, nurses, and emergency services . Dubbed a transformative upgrade, it potentially converts the UK into a quasi-“National Health State,” with NHS and social care eating up nearly half of departmental budgets by 2029 theguardian.com+1ft.com+1.

Yet while the applause rolls in, analysts warn this health-heavy focus leaves education, local government, and social care underfunded. Ruthless cost-cutting may loom in less visible but essential sectors labourhub.org.uk+9ft.com+9theguardian.com+9.

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🛡️ Defence & Security: An Ironclad Promise

Stored under pandemic-era fiscal rules, Reeves dedicated 2.6% of GDP by 2027 to defense, including £280 million annually for border security and a boost for defence procurement and nuclear deterrents reuters.com+4thetimes.co.uk+4thetimes.co.uk+4. The move seeks to reassure allies amid global uncertainty, but it epicenters private sector gains—raising eyebrows among critics who say high-cost contractors, not everyday citizens, will benefit most .

🏠 Housing: Hope or Hype?

The centerpiece is a £39 billion commitment to social and affordable housing over 10 years—the biggest such commitment in half a century, said Reeves ft.com+6apnews.com+6ifamagazine.com+6. But on closer inspection, short-term funding remains modest. Initial annual allocations average around £3 billion—barely above pre-existing levels—and ramp up only after 2029, casting doubt on immediate impact theguardian.com+4ft.com+4theguardian.com+4. Critics argue this is more flash than substance, with supply-side moves unlikely to significantly slash prices .

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🚆 Infrastructure & Green Power

Reeves’s ambitious agenda includes £113 billion in capital investments: covering public transport upgrades, nuclear energy projects (notably Sizewell C), local connectivity schemes, and clean tech theguardian.com+5costar.com+5thesun.co.uk+5. Market analysts give a thumbs-up to the potential lift for property and local economies, though some warn the promised “industrial boom” may be too centre-heavy—ignoring underfunded local services .

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📉 Growth and the Debt Dilemma

Reeves did her best to sidestep alarm over economic malaise: April showed 0.3% GDP contraction, yet Q1 grew by 0.7%, making the UK the fastest-growing among G7 nations—though economists caution this growth may trail off later in 2025 .

Still, any economic slowdown could undercut Reeves’s fiscal plan. Borrowing is projected to hit £140 billion over the review period, prompting critics to predict inevitable tax hikes by autumn to maintain current-budget balancing rules thetimes.co.uk+11ft.com+11thesun.co.uk+11. The IFS warns that a “fiscal edge” leaves little room for error thetimes.co.uk+1thetimes.co.uk+1.

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💬 Voices from the Side

Industry reaction: Real estate firms like Avison Young hail the infrastructure boost as “good news for long-term growth” costar.com.

Polly Toynbee (The Guardian): A welcome “build build build” budget, yet lacking in vision for social justice—tone too repair-focused theguardian.com.

Critics (e.g., Kirsty Major): Call the housing pledge misguided, arguing it misreads the crisis as supply-driven theguardian.com.

Jonathan Portes (former economist): Tax rises are “very likely” by autumn given borrowing forecasts independent.co.uk+1thetimes.co.uk+1.

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🧩 What Comes Next?

Autumn Economic Forecasting: Official economic forecasts will shape whether planned spending holds firm—or demands tax adjustments.

Council Tax Limits: Local authorities are expected to raise COUNCIL TAX by up to 5% annually, shifting burden locally independent.co.uk+2thetimes.co.uk+2thetimes.co.uk+2.

Service Delivery Watch: Real test lies in actual delivery—NHS wait times, housing rollouts, public transport improvements.

Next Budget Moves: The looming Autumn Budget might include unpopular measures to plug fiscal gaps—VAT, inheritance tax, benefits, or fuel duty.

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🧠 Final Verdict: Bold Renewal, But at What Cost?

Reeves’s Spending Review is undeniably sweeping: bold muscled investments in health, housing, and strategic infrastructure paired with a hard fiscal guardrail. It marks a clear departure from austerity, reflecting ambitious political intent theguardian.com+1costar.com+1thetimes.co.uk+12theguardian.com+12theguardian.com+12.

Yet underneath the headlines lies a razor’s edge: high borrowing, fragile growth, deferred housing investment, and under-resourced local services. If forecasted revenues don’t materialize, the Chancellor may have to confront the inevitable—or leave the bill to the public.

This is a make-or-break moment for Reeves—and for the faith in “renewal.” Can promised change reach living rooms, hospitals, and high streets—or collapse under economic realities?

Ferrari’s Future and Charles Leclerc’s Contract: What Lies Ahead?

The 2025 Formula 1 season has brought with it intense speculation about the future of Ferrari and its star driver Charles Leclerc. While Leclerc’s multi-year contract officially runs until 2029, murmurs within the paddock suggest that this may not be as ironclad as once thought. With Ferrari’s recent struggles and the evolving competitive landscape of F1, the possibility of an early exit clause being activated by Leclerc at the end of 2026 is increasingly discussed. Let’s delve into what this means for the Scuderia, Leclerc, and the sport overall.

Charles Leclerc: The Ferrari Prodigy with Doubts

Since joining Ferrari, Charles Leclerc has been seen as the future of the team—a young talent with immense potential who grew up dreaming of racing for the iconic Italian marque. Leclerc himself has often stated that Ferrari is the team he envisions racing for “forever.” Yet, the ongoing underperformance of the Ferrari SF-25, especially in the current challenging season, has raised questions about whether Leclerc’s loyalty will hold.

Leclerc’s contract runs until 2029, but insiders reveal the presence of an exit clause allowing him to terminate the agreement as early as the end of 2026. This would enable him to test his prospects with other teams as the first regulatory cycle of the new F1 regulations unfolds. The rationale? Leclerc wants to avoid a fate similar to past Ferrari champions like Jean Alesi, who never managed to secure the extra leap needed to challenge for the championship despite being immensely talented.

By 2029, Leclerc will be 31, still in the prime of his career. If Ferrari cannot provide him with a competitive car in the coming seasons, he might seek greener pastures at teams like Mercedes or Aston Martin—both currently strong contenders. This would be a significant blow to Ferrari but a realistic possibility given the competitive nature of the sport and Leclerc’s ambitions.

Team Management and Strategic Uncertainties

Leclerc is not the only one facing uncertainties at Ferrari. Technical director Laurent Mekies (referred to as “Vaser” in some translations) has been under scrutiny after a disappointing season start. Speculation about a management reshuffle involving Antonio Kleta, currently head of Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship program, hints at the possibility of a leadership change within Ferrari’s F1 team. Although Kleta himself denies an imminent F1 role, the rumors reflect Ferrari’s urgency to improve.

With Mekies’ position under pressure and results below expectations, the team’s capacity to deliver consistent podiums and challenge for championships is in question. Ferrari’s internal dynamics are complex, with some insiders suggesting that leadership struggles and conflicting priorities have hindered development and race strategy.

Recent Performance: Glimpses of Hope Amid Challenges

Despite the setbacks, Ferrari has shown moments of promise. The team secured podium finishes in Monaco and Barcelona, fueling optimism for a strong showing at the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix. However, qualifying remains a weak point, with the Ferrari car lagging behind rivals like Mercedes in single-lap pace. Team principal Fred Vasseur has emphasized the need to “squeeze the most” out of the SF-25, particularly before planned upgrades at Silverstone or Austria.

The technical challenges Ferrari faces are not just about aerodynamics or chassis performance but also relate to the power unit. Ferrari’s hybrid engine, especially its electric motor component, has been a limiting factor, notably the “clipping” phenomenon where power delivery is restricted to manage reliability. This issue impacts the car’s top speed and overall competitiveness. The freezing of power unit development since 2022 places additional pressure on Ferrari to maintain reliability while maximizing performance with limited upgrades.

Insights from Former Drivers and Analysts

The Ferrari predicament has drawn comparisons from past drivers. Jean Alesi, Ferrari’s 1995 Canadian GP winner, has publicly noted parallels between his career and Leclerc’s: both gifted drivers hindered by uncompetitive machinery unable to deliver a championship. Alesi has also been critical of Vasseur’s leadership, contrasting it unfavorably with past Ferrari technical directors who could exert more influence on the team’s direction.

David Coulthard, former F1 driver and commentator, weighed in on Lewis Hamilton’s chances in this era, comparing Hamilton’s current struggles to Michael Schumacher’s return to Mercedes after Ferrari. Coulthard expressed skepticism about Hamilton winning an eighth title under current circumstances, underscoring how critical the car’s performance is to a driver’s success.

The Power Unit Challenge and Reliability

Ferrari’s power unit is a recurring theme in discussions about the team’s shortcomings. The hybrid system’s electric motor has been identified as a bottleneck. At the Canadian GP, where 73% of a lap is done with the throttle open, the engine’s turbo and electric components are heavily taxed. Cooler temperatures favor performance, but as the track heats up, energy deployment must be carefully managed to avoid “clipping,” which hurts top speed.

With the F1 regulations freezing power unit development and limiting teams to four power units per season to avoid penalties, Ferrari must strike a delicate balance between performance and durability. Regularly replacing internal components such as the motor generator units and turbochargers is critical to prevent reliability issues that could jeopardize races and championships.

The Current State of Racing: Artificial Overtaking and Regulations

Beyond Ferrari, there’s growing discontent among drivers about how racing unfolds on track. Max Verstappen recently criticized Formula 1’s overtaking as “artificial,” heavily reliant on drag reduction systems (DRS) and calculated maneuvers rather than natural wheel-to-wheel battles. Drivers like Alex Albon and Cristiano Ocon echoed these concerns, emphasizing the precision and limitations required to make overtakes at speeds exceeding 250 km/h.

The highly regulated nature of overtaking and track limits forces drivers to give back positions or face penalties, which some argue detracts from the sport’s excitement. Former Red Bull technical director Jonathan Wheatley also spoke about the immense pressure on stewards to get decisions right, often leading to conservative rulings that stifle racing creativity.

The consensus among many in the paddock is that Formula 1 needs a freer, less artificial racing environment. This includes cars with less dirty air generation to promote closer racing and more overtaking opportunities.

Technical Scrutiny and Social Media Dynamics

Ferrari has also faced scrutiny over possible technical infringements. After Red Bull’s performance dip in 2024 and accusations against McLaren over asymmetric braking systems, Ferrari’s cars were checked for similar issues during the Spanish GP but passed all technical inspections without problems.

On a different note, social media’s impact on drivers’ public personas is increasingly significant. George Russell recently commented on the gap between social media portrayals and drivers’ private lives, highlighting the pressures and expectations placed on modern F1 stars to engage with fans and sponsors online. This dynamic affects how drivers are perceived and can overshadow on-track performance.

The Road Ahead: Canada and Beyond

Looking ahead, Ferrari hopes to capitalize on upgrades expected around Silverstone and Austria to boost their car’s competitiveness. Lance Stroll’s return to Aston Martin for his home race in Canada ensures a full grid of talent eager to capitalize on opportunities.

For Leclerc, the next few seasons are crucial. Whether he decides to honor his contract through 2029 or exercise the exit clause at the end of 2026 will have major ramifications not only for Ferrari but for the wider F1 ecosystem. The decision will hinge on whether Ferrari can deliver a car capable of challenging for titles or if Leclerc must seek a new team to fulfill his championship ambitions.

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Above: CCTV still captures the moment Genevieve Chenna bravely confronts the thief

In a terrifying yet awe-inspiring moment captured on CCTV, Bridgerton actress Genevieve “Gen” Chenna fought back against a phone thief in a bustling London coffee shop — a bold act that’s now making headlines across the UK and beyond.

The incident, which unfolded in a matter of seconds, highlights the growing epidemic of mobile phone theft in the UK. But it’s Chenna’s instinctive reaction and bravery that have sparked national debate about what to do when faced with street crime — fight back or give in?

Caught on Camera: The Moment of Truth

At exactly 2:02 PM on a quiet Thursday afternoon, CCTV footage shows Chenna sitting casually at a café, scrolling on her phone. Suddenly, a man approaches from behind, snatches the phone, and turns to flee.

But in a split-second response, Chenna leaps from her seat, lunges forward, and grabs hold of the suspect, dragging him down to the ground in a flurry of limbs, adrenaline, and pure instinct.

“I didn’t even think,” Chenna later told This Morning. “It was all muscle memory. I saw him run, and something in me just snapped into action.”

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Five Minutes of Chaos: A Real-Life Action Scene

Though the CCTV clip only shows the initial encounter, the struggle was far from over. Witnesses say the ordeal lasted over five minutes, spilling out of the shop and around a street corner.

“He wasn’t alone,” Chenna revealed. “Another person was with him. At one point, I was told I’d be stabbed. I had to fight like it was life or death.”

As the fight escalated, Chenna used her leg to kick back, creating space in case the suspect drew a weapon. “I just kept thinking, ‘He could have a knife, a syringe… anything.’”

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Trained to React: Actress and Fighter

While most victims freeze in such moments, Chenna’s response can partly be explained by her background. Growing up with three brothers, she developed quick reflexes — and her acting work includes fight choreography and ABA boxing training.

“Still, I wouldn’t recommend others do what I did,” she cautioned. “It was instinct — not strategy.”

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Repeat Offender with a Machete Past

Above: Prior footage of the same suspect brandishing a machete during a 2023 robbery of singer Aled Jones

In a chilling twist, the same suspect had reportedly attacked Welsh singer Aled Jones in 2023 — that time, brandishing a machete. “Seeing that photo after the fact was horrifying,” said Chenna. “He didn’t look dangerous. That was the scariest part.”

The attacker was previously placed in a youth detention center but was back on the streets — raising questions about the justice system’s handling of repeat offenders.

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The Hidden Aftermath: PTSD, Anxiety, and Isolation

Despite her victory, the emotional toll of the experience has been immense. “I couldn’t go outside,” Chenna admitted. “I’d stand in a queue, and my hands would shake. I was constantly looking over my shoulder.”

What’s more, she realized how many people — especially women — live in a constant state of alertness. “We already have to be cautious. This just amplified it.”

Former Chief Superintendent Parm Sandhu, also appearing on This Morning, praised Chenna’s courage but warned against fighting back.

“You’re worth more than your phone,” Sandhu said. “You don’t know what the attacker is carrying. It could be a knife, acid, or worse. And many thieves operate in pairs — if one gets in trouble, the other will step in.”

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Phone Theft Epidemic: A National Crisis

The statistics are staggering:

Over 100,000 phones stolen in the UK last year alone

78,000 thefts in London, making it the UK’s hotspot

A 150% rise in mobile thefts in just the past 12 months

Almost 1 in 3 Brits has had a phone stolen. And this isn’t just about losing a device — it’s about access to personal data, banking apps, and even identities.

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What You Can Do: Expert Advice

Chief Superintendent Sandhu offered several key tips to protect yourself:

Be aware of your surroundings, especially when using your phone in public.

Use phone cases with wrist straps to deter snatchers.

Avoid texting while walking, especially in urban areas.

Activate Find My Phone features and know your IMEI number (found under Settings > General > About).

If stolen, immediately contact your provider, your bank, and the police.

Always report theft, even if you think nothing can be done. This helps police map high-crime areas and allocate resources.

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Life After the Fight

Above: Chenna now taking a break from London, reflecting on her experience

Since the attack, Chenna has stepped back from London’s fast-paced acting life. “It shook my confidence to the core,” she shared. “But I’m healing — taking time to reset.”

Her story has already inspired thousands, and she’s been flooded w

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Chenna’s story sits at the crossroads of heroi — a symbod.

Still, in a time when people often record rather than react, Ge —

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If you’ve been affected by mobile theft or need advice, contact your local police or visit ww f

🔒 Stay safe. Stay alert. And remember — you are

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