Daily News 19

Category: Sports

Sports news, viral moments, athletes, teams, and major competitions.

  • Tour Championship: Alex Fitzpatrick on Stepping Out of Matt’s Shadow

    Tour Championship: Alex Fitzpatrick on Stepping Out of Matt’s Shadow

    Alex Fitzpatrick quickly discovered how dramatically life can change after winning on the PGA Tour. While celebrating his Zurich Classic pairs victory alongside his older brother, world No. 4 Matt Fitzpatrick, Alex received an unexpected congratulations from basketball legend Michael Jordan at a golf club north of Palm Beach, Florida.

    “I look over and it’s Michael Jordan,” Fitzpatrick says. “I’m like ‘wow’, it’s insane.”

    “He walks past the table. He’s got a bag full of cigars, t-shirt untucked, he looks like the coolest person ever.”

    “He walked past me, saw Gary Woodland, who won the previous week, and was like ‘wow, it’s a room of winners in here’. That was the coolest thing ever.”

    “When I started to really love basketball, I watched videos of him. I love his shoes. I loved everything about him. It was surreal having that moment.”

    “I’m not someone who gets starstruck but Michael Jordan, having him say stuff to me, it was a different world.”

    That world now appears to be one Fitzpatrick is increasingly comfortable inhabiting. Alongside his maiden DP World Tour victory at the Indian Open in March, he has recorded five top-10 finishes in 13 PGA Tour starts.

    Some critics questioned whether Fitzpatrick deserved the two-year tour card he received after winning the Zurich Classic in April. His performances in 2026, however, have strengthened his case for competing alongside the world’s best golfers.

    Fitzpatrick is so confident in his place among the elite that he has not relied heavily on Matt for advice.

    “The truth is, we haven’t spoken that much about a lot of stuff. I’ve picked his brain once this year, maybe twice,” he says.

    “I feel comfortable out here and comfortable around the group of people playing on this tour.”

    “I’ve been doing this a long time, I’ve been playing golf since I was four.”

    “I haven’t asked him a lot of questions about how things work, maybe how to get better with certain things.”

    “He’s always someone I can text or call but he’s still my brother and that’s more important than the golf side.”

  • Caitlin Clark’s New Nike Sneakers Seemingly Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Friendship Bracelets

    Caitlin Clark’s New Nike Sneakers Seemingly Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Friendship Bracelets

    Caitlin Clark has unveiled a new Nike sneaker design on her Instagram Stories, sparking immediate speculation among fans about a potential tribute to Taylor Swift. The collaboration appears to reference the friendship bracelets that became a cultural phenomenon during Swift’s Eras Tour, though neither Clark nor Nike has officially confirmed the connection.

    Design Details Point to Swiftie Inspiration

    The sneakers showcase Clark’s signature “CC” initials on one side and the number 22 on the other—both adorned with charms that closely resemble those found on friendship bracelets. Additional colorful charms decorate the laces, while the predominantly white upper features pastel, tie-dye-inspired accents throughout.

    Clark’s Public Admiration for Swift

    The design speculation gains weight given Clark’s well-documented status as one of Swift’s most enthusiastic celebrity fans. The Indiana Fever guard has frequently shared her concert experiences and Swift-related content across social media platforms, making a deliberate homage entirely plausible.

    Strategic Win for Nike and Clark

    Whether the Swift-inspired elements were intentional or coincidental, the sneaker release represents a significant marketing moment. The design bridges sports performance with pop-culture relevance, appealing to both basketball enthusiasts and Swift’s massive global fanbase—a dual audience that amplifies commercial potential for both the athlete and the brand.

  • Carabao Cup Third-Round Draw: Liverpool vs Tottenham Head…

    The Carabao Cup third-round draw was confirmed on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, setting up a headline clash between Liverpool and Tottenham at Anfield. The draw also handed Everton a home tie against Wolves and sent Newcastle on a trip to Millwall, while Premier League champions Arsenal will travel to Ipswich Town. Manchester United face Brighton, the side that eliminated them from last season's FA Cup at Old Trafford. Read also: Liverpool Near Barcola Deal, Alvarez Saga Twists, Chelsea….

    Other notable pairings include Coventry City hosting Aston Villa in a Midlands derby, holders Manchester City welcoming Norwich City, and Brentford making the short trip to Reading. Bournemouth will host Lincoln City, while Crystal Palace face Middlesbrough at home. West Ham United await the winner of Fulham versus AFC Wimbledon, and Chelsea's opponent will be decided after their second-round match against Luton Town on Thursday night, with the winner potentially hosting Leeds United.

    “Everton host Wolves and Newcastle face a tricky visit to Millwall, while Sunderland host Hull in another all-Premier League tie.”

    — The Independent

    The remaining lower-league ties feature Sheffield United at Fleetwood Town, Leyton Orient at home to Bradford City, and Peterborough United versus Barnsley. Sunderland will host Hull City in an all-Premier League tie. The two outstanding second-round matches — Chelsea versus Luton Town and Fulham versus AFC Wimbledon — are set for Thursday night, with the winners joining the third-round lineup.

    All third-round fixtures are scheduled across the weeks beginning 7 September and 14 September. The five Premier League clubs involved in this season's Champions League will play their ties in the second week to accommodate European commitments, and the eight teams in the Champions League and Europa League were kept apart in the draw.

    “The third-round fixtures will be held across the weeks commencing 7 September and 14 September.”

    — The Independent

  • Liverpool Near Barcola Deal, Alvarez Saga Twists, Chelsea…

    The final week of the summer transfer window is shaping up as one of the most dramatic in recent memory, with several Premier League giants racing to close high‑profile deals before the deadline. Read also: Roger Federer Returns to New York for US Open Exhibition.

    Liverpool appear to have made a decisive breakthrough in their pursuit of Paris Saint‑Germain winger Bradley Barcola. According to The Times, PSG are prepared to lower their asking price for the France international to £115m after previously demanding £145m, and the clubs have held more positive talks. Read also: WNBA Playoff Race Heats Up: Fire Face Must-Win Against Wings as Bueckers Shines.

    “The Times report that PSG are prepared to lower their asking price for the France international to £115m after previously demanding £145m.”

    — The Independent

    The Reds have also enquired about the availability of Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr as they look to add wide attacking threat, after seeing two bids for Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh knocked back.

    Meanwhile, the future of Argentine forward Julian Alvarez remains a tangled subplot. Atletico Madrid have insisted there is “zero per cent chance” they sell Alvarez to Barcelona this summer and claim they are “the only victims” in the protracted saga. The 26‑year‑old has made clear he would like to join Barcelona, but Arsenal continue to monitor the situation and may move for a late deal. The Independent understands Atletico would like Alvarez’s future resolved by Friday.

    ““zero per cent chance””

    — Atletico Madrid statement via The Independent

    Manchester City have already completed two major moves, sealing a €100m deal for Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi and selling Savio to Tottenham for £85m. They are also interested in Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo and could yet reignite a move for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, potentially making him the biggest transfer of the summer.

    Chelsea are also in talks to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and could turn back to Bournemouth’s Alex Scott if they sell Fernandez.

  • Isack Hadjar’s Dutch GP Withdrawal Was a “Sign of Confidence,” Says Calum Nicholas

    Isack Hadjar’s Dutch GP Withdrawal Was a “Sign of Confidence,” Says Calum Nicholas

    Isack Hadjar’s decision to withdraw from the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix because of a wrist injury showed confidence rather than weakness, according to former Red Bull mechanic Calum Nicholas.

    Hadjar had made an impressive start to the 2026 Formula 1 season alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen at Red Bull. However, he stood down for the Zandvoort race after sustaining the injury, allowing Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson to take his place at short notice.

    Lawson finished seventh in a chaotic race after Verstappen’s Red Bull crashed out on the opening lap.

    Hadjar’s Dutch Grand Prix absence praised

    Speaking on the latest episode of the Talking Bull podcast, Nicholas praised Hadjar for prioritising his fitness and the remainder of the season.

    “To take the week out as a precaution to make sure that he was fit for the rest of the season actually shows the confidence that he’s had all year,” Nicholas explained.

    “He’s been doing an incredible job. It’s a real sign of the confidence that he’s got to be able to just say, ‘Look, I’m not 100%. I’m going to take this week out as a precaution.’ And yeah, hopefully we see him back in the car in Monza.”

    Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing. Photo by: Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

    It has not yet been confirmed whether Hadjar will return to the cockpit for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, which takes place from 4 to 6 September. The Red Bull driver was nevertheless present with the team at Zandvoort.

    “We also had Isack with us this weekend even though he couldn’t be driving,” team principal Laurent Mekies said. “He was with the team trying to take the learning and trying to make sure we can push all together as strongly as we can next week in Monza.”

    In his first season with Red Bull, Hadjar sits eighth in the drivers’ championship with 68 points. Verstappen is sixth with 112 points.

  • Ferrari Must Decide Whether to Run Updated F1 Engines at Monza This Week After ADUO Results

    Ferrari Must Decide Whether to Run Updated F1 Engines at Monza This Week After ADUO Results

    Ferrari has been awarded two upgrade tokens through Formula 1’s Additional Upgrades and Opportunities (ADUO) system to modify the power unit in its SF-26. The team has assembled the two updated engines for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, but must still decide whether to introduce them at next week’s Italian Grand Prix.

    The final decision is expected at the end of this week, when Ferrari approves the parts being sent to Monza. Although the timing may appear unusual, it reflects the complexities created by the current Formula 1 regulations.

    Ferrari’s upgraded engine faces final testing

    Formula 1’s mandatory summer shutdown has not worked in Ferrari’s favour. The closure of the Maranello factory extended the testing period for the new engine, designated 067/6. Before it can be used during a race weekend, the power unit must pass an endurance test by completing at least six grands prix on the test bench without reliability problems.

    Ferrari’s Gestione Sportiva engine department reportedly has 21 cells equipped with advanced test benches. However, cost limits and the aim of maintaining a level playing field mean that only two or three dynamometers are used, with strict time restrictions further extending the process.

    If a reliability issue emerges and a minor modification is required, the approval procedure must stop and the entire testing process must begin again. As a result, Ferrari is taking a cautious approach before giving the green light for the ADUO2 engine to be installed in the SF-26 cars that Hamilton and Leclerc will drive at Monza.

    The Ferrari cars are also expected to run a special celebratory livery commemorating Michael Schumacher’s time with the Maranello team.

    New Ferrari power unit targets Mercedes

    The upgraded project is expected to remain a six-cylinder engine while delivering approximately 15 additional horsepower and a revised power curve. Ferrari hopes the changes will reduce its qualifying and race deficit to Mercedes and improve the hybrid system’s charging phase.

    The Ferrari cars could feature a new engine and livery in Monza. Photo by Eric Le Galliot.

    Ferrari has modified both the Garrett turbochargers and the combustion chamber to make better use of the new Shell fuel approved for Monza. The expected performance gain comes from the combined effect of the higher-calorie fuel and the more advanced combustion system.

    Ferrari is not arriving at Monza as the outright favourite. The Temple of Speed’s characteristics do not appear to suit the SF-26 on paper, but the team hopes Hamilton and Leclerc can qualify close to Mercedes, which is expected to lead the field.

    Mercedes home driver Kimi Antonelli will also face an engine penalty at his home race and is expected to start at least 20th.

    Italian Grand Prix to test 2026 engine hierarchy

    The Italian Grand Prix will be an important test of the Formula 1 engine order following the adjustments permitted under the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities system. Monza will provide a particularly demanding benchmark because its layout makes electrical energy recovery difficult.

    According to the FIA’s latest engine assessment, Red Bull remains the benchmark for internal combustion engine performance. Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda and Audi are all attempting to close the gap after receiving upgrade tokens for use during the 2026 and 2027 Formula 1 seasons.

  • FIA Reveals Latest ADUO Engine Ranking as Red Bull Remains Formula 1 Benchmark

    FIA Reveals Latest ADUO Engine Ranking as Red Bull Remains Formula 1 Benchmark

    The FIA has published the latest Additional Upgrades and Opportunities (ADUO) evaluation for Formula 1 power units, with the Red Bull-Ford internal combustion engine still ranked as the benchmark.

    The analysis covers every race from the season-opening Australian Grand Prix through the Hungarian Grand Prix. According to the FIA’s findings, Red Bull-Ford currently has the most powerful internal combustion engine in F1.

    Mercedes is estimated to be between 2% and 4% behind Red Bull-Ford on power. Audi, Ferrari and Honda are more than 4% adrift. Honda’s updated power unit, introduced at the Dutch Grand Prix, was not included in the latest assessment.

    No additional power unit homologations awarded

    Following the first quarter of the season, Mercedes was granted one additional homologation for each of 2026 and 2027. Audi, Ferrari and Honda were each awarded two additional homologations for both years. The allowances include extra cost-cap capacity and additional dyno testing, although no official announcement had been made at the time.

    While the FIA confirmed the latest ADUO ranking, it did not award any further homologations in this evaluation period.

    Mercedes expected to lead F1 power unit rankings

    Mercedes had widely been considered to have the strongest power unit in Formula 1, rather than Red Bull-Ford. The ADUO system has faced criticism because it evaluates only the internal combustion engine, which is not the sole performance differentiator in F1’s current hybrid power units.

    Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has also acknowledged the strength of the team’s power unit, although his comments were not made specifically in reference to the ADUO system.

    “The FIA has undertaken thorough and exhaustive analysis as part of our ADUO review process,” said Nikolas Tombazis, FIA director of single-seater. “With the release of the findings of period two, we are confident that, based on the quality of the data, its analysis is incredibly robust, giving us a high level of confidence in our findings. We also have to respect the confidentiality and intellectual property of the teams and their power unit manufacturers in disseminating any details from the findings.

    “This is the first year of ADUO so naturally there are areas which we may evolve over time, in discussion with all the PU manufacturers.”

    Red Bull questions ADUO opportunities

    Red Bull has been particularly frustrated by the limited opportunities provided by the current ranking system. The team requested a review of the results issued after the Canadian Grand Prix, but that appeal was unsuccessful.

    Speaking after the Belgian Grand Prix, Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said:

    “Toto is right. I also think that they have the most powerful power unit,” team principal Laurent Mekies said following the Belgian GP. “And certainly they had a sizeable advantage on the straight this weekend again.

    “But it’s not the first weekend. They have an advantage on the straight most weekends. And this weekend a bit more with the track sensitivity.

    “As you said, the second period closing in Budapest in a week’s time. We’ll see what’s happening.”

    With Red Bull-Ford still at the top of the ADUO rankings, the system is expected to become a major topic of debate during the Italian Grand Prix weekend.

  • Toto Wolff Explains Decision Behind Kimi Antonelli’s Monza Engine Penalty

    Toto Wolff Explains Decision Behind Kimi Antonelli’s Monza Engine Penalty

    During the race weekend at Zandvoort, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed that Kimi Antonelli is set to serve a grid penalty at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The penalty is the result of a planned power unit change.

    While the legendary Monza circuit is Antonelli’s home event, the Mercedes team believes that taking the tactical hit now is the most logical choice. Making the change in Italy helps the team avoid potential technical failures later in the season, similar to the mechanical issue that forced Antonelli to retire early in Barcelona.

    Regarding the strategic decision, Wolff explained, “With Kimi, we’re taking the full thing. Our calculations say that that’s the best track to take it,” before adding, “Obviously, algorithms don’t take their nationality into consideration. We’re here to fight for a championship and not get the most PR. So yeah, that’s what we’re going to do.”

    Reliability Concerns and Potential Penalty for George Russell

    Monza’s famous “Temple of Speed” features long straights that heavily favor the Mercedes power unit. Additionally, the circuit offers numerous overtaking opportunities, making it an ideal venue to minimize the impact of a grid drop. Under current sporting regulations, drivers face grid penalties at the first event where any additional power unit components beyond their seasonal allocation are introduced. Mercedes has faced multiple reliability concerns this season, which also affected Antonelli’s teammate, George Russell, during the race weekends in Canada and Belgium.

    The team is currently evaluating whether Russell will also need to take a strategic engine penalty. “With George, the discussions are ongoing, if we were to take it,” Wolff continued.

    Monza: A Track Ripe for Comebacks

    Historically, Monza has been a circuit where drivers can successfully fight their way forward, often yielding highly unpredictable results. In 2020, Pierre Gasly claimed a shocking victory after starting 10th on the grid. The following year, Daniel Ricciardo led McLaren to a spectacular win despite driving what was only the fourth-quickest car on the grid at the time.

    Grid penalties have not prevented strong finishes at the track in more recent years either. Last season, Isack Hadjar overcame a pit lane start to secure a P10 finish for Racing Bulls after taking on new power unit components. In 2022, Max Verstappen won the Grand Prix from a five-place grid penalty, while Lewis Hamilton sliced through the field from the very back to finish fifth.

    These past performances illustrate why Mercedes selected Monza for the tactical shift, despite it being Antonelli’s home race. For fans, Antonelli’s recovery drive could provide a thrilling spectacle as the young driver fights his way through the field.

    Antonelli heads into the Italian Grand Prix weekend in a commanding position, having further extended his championship lead with a second-place finish at Zandvoort. After 12 rounds, he sits 59 points clear of both his teammate and Hamilton.

  • Imola Could Return to the F1 Calendar in Place of the Qatar or Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

    Imola Could Return to the F1 Calendar in Place of the Qatar or Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

    Formula 1 may be forced to make a decision about the final races of the 2026 season as the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues to destabilise the Middle East and cast doubt over the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix. An unexpected alternative has reportedly emerged, with Italy potentially preparing to host a second race on the 2026 F1 calendar.

    Could Imola host the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix?

    The 2026 Formula 1 World Championship is scheduled to conclude with the Qatar Grand Prix on 29 November. However, the race may not take place at its usual venue, Lusail International Circuit. Instead, the event could reportedly be moved to the Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit in Imola.

    The possibility of Imola deciding the 2026 world championship is considered realistic, although several logistical and weather-related issues would need to be resolved.

    A decision is expected by 15 September, between the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Formula 1 will need to determine whether the final two scheduled races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi can go ahead. Qatar is due to host its race on 29 November, followed by Abu Dhabi on 6 December.

    Instability in the Gulf remains a concern, with the United States and Iran yet to reach a definitive agreement regarding the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. With time running out, the organisational window for making changes to the 2026 calendar is rapidly closing.

    Imola could return to the F1 calendar

    Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali is reportedly working to find a suitable way to conclude the 2026 championship. One possibility is moving either the Qatar or Abu Dhabi race to Imola, following the same principle that is expected to see the Bahrain Grand Prix take place at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit on 4 October.

    The plan would give Imola back the race it lost in 2023 after floods devastated the surrounding region. If the proposal goes ahead, Qatar could provide the budget for the event, with the promoter handling the entire promotional campaign. Race operations would be entrusted to ACI and Formula Imola, the company responsible for the Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit.

    Under this arrangement, sponsorship revenue and grandstand ticket sales would go to the Middle Eastern promoter, while Imola would be reimbursed for the costs of organising the race.

    The proposal could satisfy all sides. Qatar, like Bahrain, would retain its place on the Formula 1 calendar, while Liberty Media would ensure that the season includes 22 races. That would help F1 avoid potentially substantial penalties from television broadcasters whose agreements refer to a 22-event championship.

    Imola would return to the calendar unexpectedly, while Geronimo La Russa, president of ACI Italy, would benefit from a second world championship race on Italian soil without having to fund the event. For Domenicali, it would provide an effective way to resolve the calendar situation.

    The teams have reportedly made provisional hotel bookings in the Imola area as a precaution.

    Fog could create a major Imola problem

    The Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit would face a significant challenge if it hosted a race at the end of November: the risk of poor weather. The main concern would not be cold temperatures or rain, but fog.

    Fog could prevent the helicopters responsible for circuit safety from flying, bringing track activity to a standstill. With daylight hours becoming shorter, the event schedule would also need to be revised if the Qatar Grand Prix moved to Emilia-Romagna. Qualifying and the race would likely be brought forward to reduce the risk of darkness affecting the event.

    For now, the proposal remains confidential and has not been officially discussed. The hope is that US president Donald Trump will find a definitive solution to end the conflict he started with Iran. However, Italian fans would be excited by the prospect of the championship battle between Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli and Ferrari being decided on home soil.

    Source: www.motorsport.com

  • Luke Browning to Drive for Williams in FP1 at the Italian Grand Prix

    Luke Browning to Drive for Williams in FP1 at the Italian Grand Prix

    Williams Racing has confirmed that reserve driver Luke Browning will return to the cockpit for the opening free practice session (FP1) at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix. The British racer is set to take over Alex Albon’s FW48 at the iconic Monza circuit.

    Luke Browning’s Journey with Williams F1

    Browning first joined the Williams Driver Academy back in 2023. Since then, he has frequently represented the Grove-based team during mandatory rookie practice sessions, starting with his initial FP1 outing at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Following four subsequent practice runs, the young Briton was elevated to the role of official reserve driver at the beginning of 2026, balancing his Formula 1 obligations with a competitive drive in Japan’s Super Formula championship.

    Opportunities and Regulations in the FW48

    The 24-year-old was originally slated to drive the FW48 in both Spain and Austria earlier this season. Although an unexpected electrical gremlin sidelined him during the Barcelona weekend, Browning successfully took to the track at the Red Bull Ring. During FP1 in Austria, he secured an 18th-place finish, ending up just three-tenths of a second adrift of team leader Albon.

    Under current Formula 1 regulations, all teams must allocate at least two free practice sessions per year to a rookie driver. The FIA defines a rookie as any competitor who has started two or fewer Grands Prix in their career.

    “I’m thrilled to have another chance to drive an FP1 session with Atlassian Williams F1 Team,” said Browning. “It’s a great opportunity to get invaluable laps in the FW48 while building my understanding of the car and helping to bring useful data and feedback back to Grove.

    “Each session teaches you something new, and I want to take every bit of learning I can from this to keep pushing my development and the team forward. For this weekend, it’s about supporting Williams to help maximise the result here in Monza.”

    Overcoming a Challenging F1 Campaign

    Browning has been instrumental behind the scenes, dedicating significant hours to Williams’ simulator program. This preparation comes during a demanding campaign for the historic British team, which has struggled with delayed developments and a lack of competitive pace, leaving them fighting toward the back of the grid.

    Browning will look to make an immediate impact and provide critical feedback when the green light drops for FP1 at Monza at 1230 local time on September 4.