Daily News 19

Category: Sports

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

  • LIVE COVERAGE: Antonelli Wins Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid

    LIVE COVERAGE: Antonelli Wins Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid

    Live Coverage Underway for 2026 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid

    Live coverage is currently active for Sunday’s Formula 1 TAG Heuer Gran Premio de Espana 2026, marking the championship’s highly anticipated debut at the Madrid street circuit.

    Historic First Race at Madrid Circuit

    The 2026 edition of the Spanish Grand Prix represents a historic milestone for Formula 1, shifting the traditional venue from Barcelona to the Spanish capital. The race weekend culminates with Sunday’s main event, where drivers and teams navigate the new layout surrounding the IFEMA exhibition center.

    Follow the Action in Real Time

    Comprehensive live coverage provides real-time updates throughout the Grand Prix, including lap-by-lap timing, sector splits, team radio highlights, and strategic analysis as the race unfolds in Madrid.

  • Mercedes thought it had pole position until Lando Norris took it

    Mercedes thought it had pole position until Lando Norris took it

    Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff briefly believed rookie Kimi Antonelli had secured pole position for the Spanish Grand Prix – until Lando Norris snatched it away in the closing moments of qualifying at the new Madring circuit.

    Antonelli’s Strong Run Fallen Short

    Antonelli markedly improved on his initial Q3 benchmark of 1m32.140s with a blistering 1m31.835s on his second flying lap, outpacing all rivals by at least 0.178 seconds. All, that is, except one. Norris, whose first effort sat at 1m32.525s, vaulted to pole position with a 1m31.824s – a margin of just 0.011s – despite what McLaren team principal Andrea Stella described as a three-tenth loss in the final corner.

    Wolff Sees the Positive in P2

    Wolff admitted he didn’t see the McLaren surge coming but preferred to frame the result as a gain rather than a loss.

    “It’s gained, looking at it that way,” Wolff told Austrian broadcaster ORF. “Before the weekend, I never believed we’d be at the front on this track layout.

    “When Lewis crossed the line, it seemed clear we were winning this. And then Lando puts in a lap like that under conditions that suddenly got so hot, where he is so good at managing rear overheating. It’s flawless.”

    McLaren had been slower than Mercedes in every practice session and qualifying segment prior to Q3, making the sudden performance swing a surprise to the Mercedes camp.

    “That surprised us, too,” he said. “But Lando has shown in the past that he can occasionally pull out a lap like that. Especially when it comes to getting a handle on rear axle overheating as best as possible. And in that regard, I think he’s in a league of his own.”

    Race Strategy Focused on Championship Battle

    Asked how he expected Sunday’s race to unfold, Wolff pointed directly to the drivers’ championship fight. Lewis Hamilton, identified as Mercedes’ main title rival, currently trails Antonelli by 76 points, while George Russell holds a slender 10-point advantage over his former teammate.

    “The most important thing is that we don’t crash into anything; that wouldn’t be good for the cost cap,” he pointed out. “And not losing points to Lewis and Ferrari. I think here you have to score, drive home, hopefully end up on the podium, hopefully ahead of Lewis. Then we’ve reached our goals.”

  • England Test Opener May Not Need Specialist Amid Gay, Bethell & Cox Debate, Says Trescothick

    England Test Opener May Not Need Specialist Amid Gay, Bethell & Cox Debate, Says Trescothick

    England Test Coach Fleming Arrives for Talks as Backroom Staff Reshuffle Looms

    Newly appointed England Test coach Gary Fleming is set to hold meetings with the England cricket hierarchy this week after missing the team’s 3-0 series victory over Pakistan in July. The former New Zealand captain, who took the role earlier this summer, is expected to observe portions of England’s white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The ODI and T20 squads remain under the leadership of Fleming’s fellow countryman and close friend, Brendon McCullum.

    Coaching Structure Set for Reorganisation

    During McCullum’s tenure overseeing both Test and white-ball formats, the backroom staff—including Marcus Trescothick as assistant coach—operated across all formats. However, a restructuring of the coaching team now appears likely. Reports indicate Fleming approached former Australia batter Mike Hussey for a position, though Australian media outlets suggest Hussey has declined the offer.

    Trescothick confirmed he has not received clarity regarding his future role within the new setup. While he acknowledged having a preference, he declined to disclose details.

    “It’s probably best I don’t mention it at the moment because it may not be the case of what happens,” he said. “I love doing both formats. It’s brilliant and I’ve been privileged to be in the position of assistant coach.”

    Kevin Pietersen Returns to England Setup After 12-Year Absence

    In a significant development, former England teammate Kevin Pietersen will join Trescothick on the coaching staff. Pietersen has been appointed as a consultant for the white-ball team, marking his return to the national setup 12 years after his effective dismissal following the 5-0 Ashes defeat in Australia during the 2013-14 series.

    The 46-year-old’s first official day back is Sunday, when he will join preparations for the opening T20 international against Sri Lanka in Southampton on Tuesday.

    “We’ve spoken already, to plan a little bit,” said Trescothick. “I gave him a couple of things that I wanted him to look at, to get his advice on.”

    “He is buzzing. Putting back on the shirt or the tracksuit, he is buzzing for that opportunity.”

    “Having his presence around and the knowledge he has about batting – he sees batting in a different light to many different people. If we can tap into that, it’s only going to benefit the team.”

  • Prime Minister Andy Burnham Competes at Great North Run

    Prime Minister Andy Burnham Competes at Great North Run

    Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has discussed his motivation for taking part in the Great North Run. The annual half-marathon, which runs between Newcastle and South Shields, draws thousands of participants each year.

    Burnham outlined his personal reasons for competing in the high-profile event. Further details regarding his specific comments and the context of his remarks are expected to follow.

  • ‘He’s been brilliant with me’: Elliot Anderson relishes partnership with Erling Haaland

    ‘He’s been brilliant with me’: Elliot Anderson relishes partnership with Erling Haaland

    Newcastle United midfielder Elliot Anderson appears to be developing a promising understanding with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland during his early spell at the Etihad Stadium.

    Anderson Impressed by Haaland’s Early Support

    The 21-year-old, who joined City from Newcastle in a deal worth £35 million this summer, has spoken positively about his integration into Pep Guardiola’s squad. The England Under-21 international highlighted the Norwegian forward’s welcoming approach since his arrival.

    “He’s been brilliant with me.”

    Anderson’s comments suggest a smooth transition into a star-studded City dressing room, with the club’s record goalscorer taking the young midfielder under his wing. The partnership could prove valuable for Guardiola as he looks to integrate new signings into his tactical system ahead of a demanding season across multiple competitions.

    The midfielder’s technical ability and versatility made him a priority target for the Premier League champions, who see him as a long-term successor to aging creative players in their squad. His early rapport with Haaland bodes well for City’s attacking fluidity, particularly in tight matches where combination play between midfield and attack becomes crucial.

  • Rybakina Beats Sabalenka to Win First US Open Title

    Rybakina Beats Sabalenka to Win First US Open Title

    Key Highlights

    • Elena Rybakina captured her first US Open title by defeating two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.
    • The victory marks Rybakina’s third Grand Slam singles championship overall.
    • Rybakina ended Sabalenka’s bid for a third consecutive US Open crown.

    Rybakina Triumphs at Flushing Meadows for Maiden US Open Title

    Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina has claimed the 2024 US Open women’s singles championship, overcoming Aryna Sabalenka in the final to secure her first title at Flushing Meadows. The victory represents a significant milestone for the 25-year-old, who adds the American hard-court major to her previous Grand Slam triumphs at Wimbledon in 2022 and the Australian Open earlier this year.

    Ending Sabalenka’s Title Defense

    Rybakina’s path to the trophy required toppling the tournament’s most dominant recent performer. Sabalenka entered the final as the two-time defending champion, having captured the US Open crown in both 2022 and 2023. The Belarusian’s bid to become the first woman since Serena Williams (2012–2014) to win three straight US Open titles was halted by Rybakina’s powerful baseline game and composed serving under pressure.

    Third Major Crown Completes Surface Sweep

    With this win, Rybakina becomes one of the few active players to hold Grand Slam titles on all three major surfaces: grass (Wimbledon 2022), hard court (Australian Open 2024, US Open 2024), and now a second distinct hard-court major. The achievement underscores her versatility and cements her status among the elite of the women’s game. Rybakina’s 2024 season now features two major championships, signaling a return to peak form after injury interruptions earlier in her career.

    Why This Matters

    Rybakina’s victory reshapes the narrative at the top of the WTA Tour. By denying Sabalenka a historic three-peat, she reasserts herself as a primary contender for the year-end No. 1 ranking and establishes a compelling rivalry with the Belarusian on the sport’s biggest stages. The result also highlights the depth of the current women’s field, where multiple players possess the weapons to win on any surface. For the US Open, the crowning of a first-time champion in New York continues a trend of diverse winners, reinforcing the tournament’s reputation for producing fresh narratives each season.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How many Grand Slam titles does Elena Rybakina now have?

    Elena Rybakina has won three Grand Slam singles titles: Wimbledon in 2022, the Australian Open in 2024, and the US Open in 2024.

    Was Aryna Sabalenka attempting to win her third consecutive US Open?

    Yes, Aryna Sabalenka was the two-time defending champion, having won the US Open in 2022 and 2023, and was bidding for a third straight title.

    What is significant about Rybakina winning the US Open?

    This is Rybakina’s first US Open title. Combined with her previous majors, she now holds Grand Slam trophies on grass and hard courts, demonstrating her all-surface prowess.

  • Colton Herta Withdraws From Both Madring F2 Races

    Colton Herta Withdraws From Both Madring F2 Races

    Colton Herta Withdraws from Madrid F2 Rounds After Qualifying Crash

    Colton Herta has withdrawn from both races at the Formula 2 round in Madrid following a heavy qualifying accident on Friday. The Hitech Pulse-Eight driver lost control of his car at Turn 19, sliding into both barriers and sustaining significant damage to the front, rear, and right-hand side of his machinery.

    Driver Cites Feeling Unwell

    Herta subsequently pulled out of Saturday’s sprint race and Sunday’s feature race, reportedly feeling “unwell”. The team offered no comment regarding his potential participation at upcoming championship rounds.

    Difficult Rookie Season Continues

    The former IndyCar race winner switched to F2 this year to pursue his Formula 1 ambitions, securing a Cadillac test and development role. However, the transition has proven challenging. Across 11 rounds, Herta has reached the top 10 in qualifying only once and has accumulated 26 points — 20 of which came during the opening five events.

    His form has deteriorated recently. At Monza, Herta crashed twice in what was arguably his worst weekend of the season. The Madrid incident marks his third accident in his last six F2 sessions.

    Teammate and Countryman Celebrate Success

    While Herta’s weekend ended early, his teammate Ritomo Miyata achieved a career milestone by claiming his maiden F2 victory on Saturday — at the 76th attempt. Meanwhile, fellow American Ugo Ugochukwu secured the 2026 FIA Formula 3 championship title on Sunday.

    Championship Standings Update

    Ferrari junior Dino Beganovic dominated Sunday’s feature race, converting pole position into a commanding win. In the drivers’ standings, Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov leads with 177 points, followed by Ferrari Academy driver Rafael Camara on 170. Alpine’s Gabriele Mini sits third with 153 points, while Alex Dunne rounds out the top four on 139.

  • ‘We’re all hungry for another special day’: Michael Carrick addresses Manchester United fans ahead of Manchester derby

    ‘We’re all hungry for another special day’: Michael Carrick addresses Manchester United fans ahead of Manchester derby

    Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick is counting on the Old Trafford atmosphere to provide his side with a crucial edge when they face Manchester City in Sunday’s Premier League derby.

    Carrick Emphasizes Unique Nature of Manchester Derby

    Ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Carrick acknowledged the distinct challenge posed by the cross-town rivalry. “We know that the Manchester derby will be a totally different game.”

    The former United midfielder, who took temporary charge following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, believes the home crowd’s energy could prove decisive against the league leaders. United will be looking to disrupt City’s title charge while boosting their own top-four aspirations in what promises to be an intense encounter at the Theatre of Dreams.

  • Former McLaren F1 Junior Ugo Ugochukwu Wins Formula 3 Championship

    Former McLaren F1 Junior Ugo Ugochukwu Wins Formula 3 Championship

    Ugo Ugochukwu secured the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship at the Madring circuit on Sunday, completing a remarkable turnaround for the Campos Racing driver who entered the season finale as a relative dark horse in the title fight.

    Season-Long Battle Culminates in Madrid

    The championship contest narrowed to a two-driver duel over the summer months. Ugochukwu and Trident’s Freddie Slater emerged as the primary protagonists through consistency in feature races. Across the first seven rounds before the summer break, Slater claimed six feature race podiums while Ugochukwu collected five; no other driver managed more than two Sunday top-three finishes.

    Slater, spearheading Audi’s new Driver Development Programme, arrived at the Monza round with a strong opportunity to build a near-decisive lead over the understated Ugochukwu. However, after finishing second in the sprint race, the British driver dropped from pole position in the feature race and eventually retired with a technical issue. That setback meant Slater took only a 15-point advantage into the final round at Madring, which featured an unusual three-race format to compensate for the cancelled Bahrain opener due to the Iran war.

    Qualifying Disparity Decides Title Trajectory

    The championship pendulum swung dramatically in qualifying. Slater qualified 17th and eighth across the two sessions, while Ugochukwu delivered fourth and second. That grid disparity proved decisive. Ugochukwu scored with eighth place in the sprint and fourth in the first feature race, while Slater failed to add to his tally, setting up a winner-takes-all final race on Sunday.

    Clinical Drive Seals Crown for Ugochukwu

    In the decisive encounter, the Campos driver produced a mature performance, running comfortably in second place behind Tuukka Taponen without mounting a serious challenge for the lead or facing significant pressure from behind. Meanwhile, Slater lost a position to Yevan David at the start but recovered eighth by passing the Sri Lankan driver around the outside of Turn 1 on lap five — a result insufficient to deny Ugochukwu the title.

    “It felt like a much longer race than usual,” the American said. “It was quite difficult with the dirty air to overtake Tuukka. I tried my best a few laps, but I saw I couldn’t get quite close enough. We knew that P2 would clinch the title, so just had to ultimately bring it home.

    “Every single kerb felt louder than usual, I started hearing weird sounds, but I just had to keep it clean until the end. Once I crossed the finish line, I could relax. Just really relieved.”

    Redemption After McLaren Departure

    This championship carries particular significance for Ugochukwu, who previously defeated Slater for the Formula Regional European title over the winter. The 19-year-old American left the McLaren junior programme at the end of 2025 after a difficult rookie F3 season that yielded only 16th place in the standings.

    “I don’t really know what to feel,” he said. “It feels really good. The work we put in throughout the entire season finally paid off. It’s been an amazing campaign, and I just want to thank my team, Campos. We worked really well together all year, and to finish off like this is the best possible way. Clinching the teams’ championship yesterday and now the drivers’ one as well is pretty much a perfect season.”

    “[It’s] super special. We had our goals set out at the beginning of the year, and today we have achieved them. It’s been super good,” he added.

    “I think this weekend was the one which really mattered the most. We were super clinical, no mistakes made the whole weekend, and we just delivered when we had to and picked up the points. Perfect way to end the season.”

    Slater Earns Rookie Honours in Strong Debut Campaign

    Despite falling short in the title decider, Slater’s consistency throughout the season earned him recognition as Formula 3’s top rookie for 2026. The Trident driver’s six feature race podiums before the summer break underlined his pace, and his Audi-backed programme positions him strongly for future progression.

    With both drivers’ and teams’ titles secured, Campos Racing completes a dominant season, while Ugochukwu’s journey from McLaren release to F3 champion stands as one of the category’s most compelling redemption narratives.

  • F1 Cannot Continue This Way

    F1 Cannot Continue This Way

    Fernando Alonso has issued a stark warning that Formula 1 “cannot continue this way” after expressing frustration that the current generation of cars fails to do justice to the challenging new Madring circuit, the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix.

    Alonso Praises Madring Layout but Criticizes Car Limitations

    The Aston Martin driver was full of praise for the demanding 5.4km Madrid layout, which features several high-speed, high-commitment corners with minimal margin for error. However, he argued the track’s character is wasted on machinery overly reliant on battery management rather than driver skill.

    “It is sad, in a way, with this generation of cars to come to a very nice circuit like this one, with challenges here and there, like La Monumental corner, Turn 12,” the two-time world champion said. “It cannot be that Michael [Alonso’s PR] is faster than Max Verstappen if he has more battery, because Turn 12 is such an incredible corner that Max Verstappen has to be making the difference compared to Michael, and at the moment we can’t.

    “But Formula 1 or motorsport in general should be that in Turn 12, if Michael is braver than me, he goes faster. If I have more attributes, I will go faster than him, that’s how we should be qualifying. Now it’s just [depending on] how much [battery charge] I have, I will go faster or slower.”

    Push for Earlier V8 Return and Honda Support

    While F1 is gradually shifting toward a 60-40 combustion-to-electric power split for the 2027 regulations, Alonso is advocating for an accelerated return to V8 engines before the next planned rules cycle in 2031. The Spaniard has also held discussions with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding additional support for Honda, Aston Martin’s power unit supplier, which is currently struggling with performance.

    Honda has already received concessions under the ADUO catch-up system for underperforming manufacturers, though the mechanism is widely viewed as imperfect and slated for further adjustment.

    “I did speak with him but I speak with Stefano [Domenicali, F1 boss] regularly every week, because Formula 1 cannot continue in this way,” Alonso lamented. “We cannot wait for 2031 to have a proper sport, so I think it’s also my responsibility to help them with my experience, to make whatever we can do.”

    Contract Future Remains Open

    Alonso’s outspoken stance comes amid ongoing public speculation regarding his racing future. The 45-year-old veteran is widely expected to extend his stay with Aston Martin through the 2027 regulation change.