The aforementioned timing is relevant for the reason that end result came dazzling a number of weeks after Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi severely a great deal surprised the paddock with solid criticism of his hold staff in a French TV interview, announcing the staff’s performance became as soon as “unacceptable” and at times “amateurish”.
The solid flee in Monaco took a number of of the rigidity away, and a clearly jubilant Rossi became as soon as chuffed to be front and centre between the two drivers in the staff photograph that notorious Esteban Ocon’s podium function.
Nonetheless, while Alpine lies fifth in the standings, that’s not where a works staff with mountainous ambitions needs to be, in particular several years into an ongoing rebuilding assignment.
The well-known for Rossi became as soon as that the staff did the whole lot dazzling in a elaborate flee and successfully converted the decent grid positions into results with both autos, having raced with Mercedes and Ferrari.
It became as soon as a substantial weekend for the staff and a grand-mandatory enhance, but Rossi is well attentive to the bigger relate.
The auto isn’t very in actuality snappy ample for the time being, so or not it’s all about making the most of what the staff has, and taking opportunities as soon as they approach at circuits that favour the kit.
“Yeah, or not it’s factual, or not it could possibly be main, we obtained some points that we may perchance like desperately mandatory,” he says. “Attributable to we didn’t raise on the extent of performance that we are going to have to own in the major few races, which became as soon as the cause of my message.
Esteban Ocon, Alpine F1 Crew celebrates his third home with Pierre Gasly, Alpine F1 Crew, Laurent Rossi, Alpine Chief Govt Officer and the staff
Portray by: Alpine
“So we roughly caught up, a mountainous haul of points, which helps us make stronger not not up to the fifth home in a factual style, which is nice.
“Now, let’s not safe forward of ourselves. I doubt we’re P3, on the face of it. We’re doubtlessly going to safe relieve to the pure mutter next week in Barcelona, I may perchance perchance mediate something admire wherever between six and 10, I express.
“After which we are going to continue doing what I became as soon as attempting forward to the staff to attain, which is place on operational excellence and unusual a special mindset in phrases of admire analysing errors, errors, addressing them, and turning in something stable admire that, which is awfully factual.”
Rossi acknowledges that making the A523 extra competitive and continuously being in the combo with Mercedes and Ferrari may perchance not be easy.
Nonetheless, he’s assured that a factual direction has been stumbled on.
“On the performance side of the auto, this takes time,” he says. “There are going to be upgrades. We are able to survey that the aero maturity is roughly admire getting there, everyone understands the auto extra, we’re roughly plateauing.
“So or not it’s as grand the remaining now, just the auto in any situation and scheme certain you raise. So right here is going to be the the relaxation of the season, which is going to be reasonably attention-grabbing.
“Nonetheless yeah, not not up to the last two races Miami and Monaco own confirmed the form of behaviour and operational excellence that helped us truly safe fifth in 2021, after we had the sixth automobile, and safe fourth last One year after we had the fourth automobile.
“Attributable to it became as soon as solid, it became as soon as stable. And I’m chuffed to survey that the staff obtained relieve to that level. This is Alpine. And I’m certain they’re very proud, and they will also be.”
Laurent Rossi, Alpine F1 Crew CEO
Portray by: Alpine
Rossi says the staff management already knew what he realizing, and in function, his horrid message became as soon as for the initiating air world to survey while carrying his corporate CEO hat.
“I furthermore despatched that message at some level of to of us personally,” he insists. “One ingredient that you just put out of your mind is that I am not the staff main. So, I solely expend a little bit little bit of my time on F1 now by form, because of I even own truly a in actuality capable predicament of managers on the head of Alpine F1. So I told them most steadily what I realizing.
“After which I became as soon as requested by journalists, investors, of us from the initiating air world whether or not or not I became as soon as chuffed with that, and what became as soon as my diagnostics, so I furthermore decide to present it available.
“So you realizing it became as soon as addressed to my staff, it became as soon as addressed nearly equally to the exterior world because the interior one.
“Bear in mind, we’re fragment of a publicly-traded community. We own masses of companions, sponsors. And they steadily surprise if, on the face of it, the staff is getting into the dazzling direction. And so that you just furthermore have to send them a reassuring message that there is somebody there who is conscious of that right here is below par compared to our ambitions.”
Inevitably, Rossi’s feedback led to hypothesis that Otmar Szafnauer’s job may perchance furthermore be below menace a little bit bigger than a One year after he took over.
Rossi conducted the quest that led to the hiring of Szafnauer, and on the time became as soon as adamant that he became as soon as the suitable man for the job.
He insists now that his message wasn’t aimed dazzling on the staff boss.
“It grew to become because of I mentioned that, Otmar is admire threatened,” he says. “It is simply a reminder to all of us to blame, Otmar being the discontinue person to blame, but absolutely not the solely one. Otmar does not form the auto, does not just the auto, he’s the person that’s orchestrating the whole lot.
“So it became as soon as simply a reminder to them that they own got targets, and they’ll be assessed against these targets. As easy as that. I became as soon as not going to let hotfoot of Otmar after having mentioned that dazzling after one flee.”
Nonetheless wasn’t he sending a straightforward signal to Enstone to boot?
“It became as soon as supposed for furthermore the management certainly,” he admits. “Apart from to worth that clearly the sphere available has eyes on them, not dazzling me. I became as soon as speaking to my sponsors or investors and shareholders as grand as on behalf of them. I became as soon as requested to put a diagnostic, I did it.”
Esteban Ocon, Alpine F1 Crew A523
Portray by: Alpine
The menace with such public statements is that they will predicament off some turmoil and uncertainty round a staff and generate gossip at some level of the paddock. Nonetheless, Rossi downplays the affect of his words.
“I don’t know, whatever it did, to be correct with you,” he says. “I may perchance furthermore survey or not it’s perceived very in another case in assorted areas. In the US it became as soon as well obtained, in France it became as soon as well obtained, in the UK, probably a little bit much less.
“It is okay, as prolonged as it produces the function. The staff is conscious of what I mediate of them. I’ve told them time and time again, I mediate highly of them.
“In my interview tips you I even mentioned that I do know what this staff is able to. They confirmed it last One year. I became as soon as dazzling dissatisfied.
“So in actuality, it became as soon as a in actuality easy message that somebody can read the standings may perchance furthermore rate, because of they had been dazzling asking me, why are we there? And is it sufficient? And these are the causes.”
Sahil Sachdeva is an International award-winning serial entrepreneur and founder of Level Up PR. With an unmatched reputation in the PR industry, Sahil builds elite personal brands by securing placements in top-tier press, podcasts, and TV to increase brand exposure, revenue growth, and talent retention. His charismatic and results-driven approach has made him a go-to expert for businesses looking to take their branding to the next level.
Padel isn’t merely surging in popularity; it’s rewriting the global playbook for sport, community, and capital. What began as a niche pastime has evolved into a cultural and economic force, stretching from Dubai’s desert courts to Europe’s bustling clubs and, now, America’s rapidly accelerating Padel boom. With more than 35 million players worldwide, the sport has entered a new era of mainstream momentum. At the heart of this transformation stands Marcos del Pilar, the visionary many now refer to as the Godfather of Padel in the USA.
A serial entrepreneur, investor, and one of the most respected global Padel consultants, Marcos has spent more than 30 years building, teaching, and scaling the sport. Today, he is the expert investors call before breaking ground on a Padel facility, the advisor federations depend on to set standards, and one of the strategists whose work helped push Padel into the American mainstream.
His best-selling book THE SECRET CODE OF PADEL reveals the first complete blueprint behind the sport’s meteoric rise, unpacking the mindset, systems, and business frameworks that have turned Padel into an international cultural and economic force. For the first time, he is revealing the formula that shaped the modern Padel era.
Cracking the Code: Why Padel Became a Global Force
According to Marcos, Padel’s strength comes from a rare combination of accessibility, community engagement, and scalable growth. As he explains, “Padel is more than a sport. It is a platform for human connection, growth, and opportunity.”
Unlike traditional racquet sports, Padel is easy to learn, highly social, and thrives in compact facilities with strong revenue potential. This has attracted entrepreneurs, private clubs, celebrities, athletes, and institutional investors. But its rapid rise in the United States needed more than enthusiasm. It required leadership, structure, and someone who understood the sport from every angle.
One of those was Marcos del Pilar.
The Architect Behind America’s Padel Revolution
When Marcos arrived in the USA in 2017, Padel was almost virtually unknown. Courts were limited, investors were hesitant, and the ecosystem lacked standards, trained coaches, and infrastructure. The resistance was significant, but Marcos saw a future others could not yet imagine.
His leadership portfolio reflects one of the most comprehensive resumes in modern sports development:
Former President of the United States Padel Association (USPA)
Head of Padel with the RSPA (Racquet Sports Professionals Association), certifying thousands of professionals
Padel Consultant for Tennis Australia and the United States Tennis Association (USTA), and several international investment groups.
Recipient of multiple industry awards, including RSPA Master Professional, President’s Award, and Professional of the Year
Serial entrepreneur and investor in the Padel ecosystem, and partner of some of the biggest Padel ventures in the USA.
Co-Founder, and former CEO and Commissioner of the Pro Padel League
Team USA Head Coach at the 2021 Qatar and 2022 Dubai Padel World Championships.
Ranked Top Number 3 among the Top 50 Most Influential Persons in the New Padel World by international media outlets.
Marcos also played a critical role in bringing the first-ever Padel World Championship to the United States in Las Vegas in 2022, uniting more than 600 players from 32 countries. Beyond executive leadership, he has shaped the sport’s educational and professional frameworks by authoring and leading the RSPA’s worldwide certification program, as well as numerous resources for coaches, investors, and clubs.
His book, THE SECRET CODE OF PADEL, reveals the proven principles, strategic insights, and mindset shifts that shaped the sport’s global rise while offering powerful lessons for business, leadership, and personal transformation.
The Hidden Formula: Vision, Mindset, Ecosystem Building
Marcos believes that Padel’s expansion is driven by a mindset he refers to as the secret code. The code includes:
Believing in a vision before anyone else can see it
Making bold and strategic long-term decisions
Building sustainable Padel ecosystems rather than simply building courts
Creating opportunities for communities, investors, and future leaders
Using sport as a vehicle for growth, impact, and transformation
As he shares, “Success begins with one decision. You must believe in your vision even before the world understands it.”
From Consultant to Global Catalyst
MARCOS DEL PILAR, Global Padel Consultant and Professional Padel Coaching, has now become the premier strategic advisory platform for the sport’s global expansion. His hybrid model includes:
Facility development and ROI consulting
Strategic business planning for clubs and federations
Coaching certification and professional education
Leadership development and workshops
Brand partnerships, marketing strategy, and keynote speaking
Advisory roles with major investors and global organizations
He is widely regarded as the go-to expert for anyone entering the global Padel industry.
A Vision for the Future of Padel
Marcos aims to make Padel one of the world’s largest sports, especially in the American market. His vision includes thousands of high-quality facilities across the country, unified education and coaching standards, stronger international collaboration, and a thriving ecosystem where investors, communities, and athletes grow together.
As he says, “If you want to change an industry, you begin by changing yourself and people’s mindsets.” And through Padel, he is doing exactly that.
As the sport accelerates toward becoming a multi-billion-dollar global industry, one thing is clear. The future of Padel, particularly in America, will continue to be shaped by the vision and leadership of Marcos del Pilar.
The Godfather of Padel has revealed the code. Now, the world is ready to play.
A tense standoff has developed between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over Bangladesh’s participation in the men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Reports indicate that the ICC has turned down the BCB’s plea to relocate Bangladesh’s group-stage matches from India, following concerns raised by the BCB about player safety amid strained bilateral relations. During a recent virtual discussion, the ICC reportedly emphasised that Bangladesh must fulfil its scheduled fixtures in India or face potential forfeiture of points.
The BCB, however, has pushed back, insisting no direct threats of forfeiture were made in talks and maintaining their stance on security issues. No official statements have been released by the ICC or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), leaving the matter unresolved with the tournament approaching.
Bangladesh, in Group C, are due to play three initial matches in Kolkata—against West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9), and England (February 14)—with their final group fixture against Nepal in Mumbai. Ongoing preparations underscore the urgency for resolution.
The controversy stems from a related IPL incident, where the BCCI directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his INR 9.2 crore contract for the 2026 season, citing unspecified “recent developments.” Mustafizur was the only Bangladeshi player picked in the auction, and his release—without a formal Governing Council meeting—heightened the BCB’s apprehensions about player treatment and security.
With less than a month until the event, the lack of consensus is drawing attention to ICC governance, tournament planning, and board diplomacy. Potential outcomes could influence future venue dispute resolutions in ICC tournaments.
As of now, Bangladesh’s fixtures in India stand unchanged, but further discussions in the near term will be pivotal to avoid escalation or disruption.
With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 set to begin in early February, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has declared that its national team will not travel to India under the current circumstances. The board has officially asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move all of Bangladesh’s group-stage fixtures to venues outside India, primarily citing safety and security concerns for players and officials amid strained bilateral relations.
The decision follows an emergency BCB board meeting and comes on the heels of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his IPL 2026 contract. Although not explicitly linked by either board, the timing has fueled speculation in cricket circles, with some Bangladeshi officials viewing it as indicative of broader tensions.
Bangladesh, placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal, was originally scheduled to play three matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and one at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Shifting these games would involve complex rearrangements, including venue availability in Sri Lanka (where Pakistan’s matches are already allocated due to similar geopolitical issues), security protocols, and broadcasting logistics—all with limited time before the tournament opener on February 7.
The ICC has yet to respond publicly, but sources suggest contingency plans are being discussed. Precedents like hybrid models in recent events (e.g., India’s Champions Trophy games shifted due to Pakistan relations) could influence the outcome, though relocating one team’s fixtures mid-preparation is rare.
For the Bangladeshi squad, training continues amid uncertainty, with emphasis on player welfare. Indian venues remain prepared as primary hosts, but any schedule changes could impact travel and rest for multiple teams.
This episode underscores how geopolitical frictions can disrupt major international tournaments, challenging the ICC to uphold fairness, practicality, and the event’s overall integrity. A swift resolution is anticipated in the coming days to maintain momentum for the global spectacle.
England captain Ben Stokes has expressed strong support for head coach Brendon McCullum to stay in his role, despite the team’s loss of the Ashes series in Australia.
Stokes and McCullum took charge together in 2022. This tour was seen as a key test of their leadership, but England lost the first three Tests, conceding the series early. They bounced back with a victory in the fourth Test at Melbourne, their first win on Australian soil in nearly 15 years, with the fifth and final Test set to begin in Sydney on Sunday (23:30 GMT Saturday).
Both Stokes and McCullum have contracts running until 2027 and have indicated their desire to continue beyond this tour.
While Stokes is widely regarded as England’s ideal captain and likely to lead into the home summer, questions may arise over McCullum’s position and that of cricket director Rob Key.
“I have no doubt that Brendon and I are the right duo to lead this team forward in the coming years,” Stokes said.
When asked if he and the New Zealand-born McCullum form an inseparable partnership, Stokes added: “I struggle to picture anyone else stepping in to guide this side from its current position to greater successes.”
This series defeat continues England’s poor record in away Ashes contests, with their last triumph in Australia dating back to 2010-11, the only success there since 1986.
Past heavy losses in Australia have often triggered major overhauls in England’s setup; Stokes and McCullum were appointed after a 4-0 thrashing four years earlier.
“We haven’t won an Ashes series here since 2010-11, and reactions to those failures have led to changes that haven’t ultimately solved the problem,” Stokes noted. “There are decision-makers above me. Previous tours haven’t gone well, but repeating the drastic resets of the past would likely land us in the same spot again.”
McCullum is scheduled to coach England at next month’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, so any review of his role is expected to wait until after that event.
Stokes added that he would expect to be involved in discussions about potential leadership changes.
“No one knows if changes are coming, but we’re both committed to continuing our work,” he said.
Under Stokes and McCullum, England started strongly, winning 10 of their first 11 Tests, though results have levelled off since. In their last 34 Tests, they have 16 wins, 16 losses, and two draws, without securing a major five-Test series win against Australia or India.
McCullum took on oversight of England’s white-ball sides at the start of 2025. Since then, the Test team has won just four of 10 matches, including a routine series victory over Zimbabwe in May.
Director Rob Key has suggested the pre-tour white-ball commitments in New Zealand hampered Ashes preparation, though he stood by the scheduling.
Stokes, however, dismissed concerns that McCullum’s expanded responsibilities have impacted the Test side.
“He’s handling both roles now, but it hasn’t affected our dynamic with the Test group at all,” Stokes said.
England have announced a 12-man squad for the Sydney Test, including spinner Shoaib Bashir and paceman Matthew Potts.
The team will make at least one change after fast bowler **Gus Atkinson** was ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained in Melbourne.
Bashir hasn’t played since July due to a finger injury suffered against India, while Potts last featured over a year ago against New Zealand in December 2024.
“He’s been around the squad,” Stokes said of Potts. “He made a strong early impression in Tests, but his role has evolved. With Gus sidelined, this creates an opening for someone new.”
Australia may make up to two adjustments, potentially bringing in specialist spinner Todd Murphy for seamer Jhye Richardson, and possibly swapping all-rounder Beau Webster for Cameron Green.
The 2025 Qatar Grand Prix delivered everything a Formula 1 season finale contender should: drama, razor-sharp strategy, high-stakes pressure, and a championship battle left wide open with just one race to go. Max Verstappen’s commanding victory at Lusail not only showcased his trademark racecraft but also revived his bid for the Drivers’ Championship, narrowing the gap to just 12 points behind leader Lando Norris. With Oscar Piastri only four points further back, the season now heads to Abu Dhabi with three drivers still mathematically in contention.
Verstappen’s Calculated Brilliance
Starting third behind a McLaren front-row lockout, Verstappen wasted no time asserting himself. He swept past Lando Norris at Turn 1, instantly slotting into second behind polesitter Oscar Piastri. But the defining moment came moments later when Nico Hulkenberg’s stranded Haas triggered an early Safety Car.
Red Bull executed what Verstappen would later call a “smart” and decisive strategy: they pitted immediately. McLaren, in contrast, kept both Piastri and Norris out, an error CEO Zak Brown would publicly concede as “the wrong decision.”
From there, Verstappen was clinical. Adhering to the FIA’s mandatory 25-lap tire limit, he managed two perfectly timed stops, maintained race-leading pace, and reclaimed track position with surgical precision. When Norris finally pitted and rejoined on fresh rubber, Verstappen breezed past him again, this time for the lead that would secure his “incredible” win.
The triumph was more than a race victory. It was a statement of intent: Verstappen is not done fighting.
McLaren’s Miscalculation Costs Crucial Points
For McLaren, the weekend was a near-perfect opportunity turned into a missed milestone. Their pace was undeniable, with Piastri on pole and Norris alongside him, both boasting strong Sprint results (Piastri first, Norris third). But in Formula 1, timing is everything.
By choosing not to pit under the Safety Car, McLaren forced their drivers into a compromised strategy, losing invaluable track position as the race unfolded. Piastri’s raw pace salvaged second place, but he finished 15 seconds behind Verstappen. Norris, meanwhile, struggled in the mid-stint traffic, eventually finishing fourth after a late gain due to a rival’s mistake.
The cost? Norris missed the chance to clinch the championship one race early. Instead, he heads to Abu Dhabi just 12 points clear of Verstappen and 16 points ahead of his own teammate. The internal dynamics at McLaren will be fascinating to watch; team harmony under the pressure of a three-way title fight is never guaranteed.
Williams Shines with a Surprise Podium
While the spotlight fell on the championship contenders, Williams quietly authored one of the weekend’s most compelling stories. Carlos Sainz delivered a superb drive from seventh to third, capitalizing on McLaren’s vulnerability and overtaking Norris to secure Williams’ second podium of the season.
This result marked a significant turnaround from their performance at the same venue the previous year. “To get a podium here, of all places, was a surprise,” Sainz admitted. For a team fighting to re-establish itself as a consistent midfield force, this was a breakthrough.
Ferrari’s Troubles Deepen
If Williams over-delivered, Ferrari did the opposite. The team struggled from the opening practice sessions, unable to dial in the car on a circuit that exposed their aerodynamic weaknesses. Sprint qualifying was especially painful. Lewis Hamilton failed to escape Q1 for the second consecutive weekend, while Charles Leclerc lost positions in the Sprint after starting ninth.
The Grand Prix brought little relief. Leclerc salvaged eighth thanks to incidents up ahead, but he never looked competitive. Hamilton, still searching for his first podium of the season, finished outside the points. Two poor weekends in a row leave Ferrari with more questions than answers heading into the finale.
Star Power Lights Up Lusail
True to Qatar’s reputation for spectacle, the paddock brimmed with global celebrities. Novak Djokovic presented the Sprint trophies. Football icons David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard, and Gary Neville walked the grid. Serena Williams soaked in the pre-race energy. Heavy metal legends Metallica roamed the pit lane. And Kevin Hart waved the chequered flag to end the event, an appropriately dramatic finish to a dramatic race.
A Championship on a Knife’s Edge
The 2025 Qatar Grand Prix underscored the essence of championship-level Formula 1: strategy defines outcomes, pressure exposes teams, and one race can reshape everything. Verstappen’s win rekindles the title fight. McLaren’s strategic error tightens the race to the wire. Piastri remains the dark horse with nothing to lose.
As the paddock heads to Abu Dhabi for the showdown, one thing is clear: the 2025 title will not be won by raw speed alone, but by nerves, nuance, and flawless execution. The battle is far from over, and the finale promises to be unforgettable.
In a world where sports often mirror societal divides, women’s soccer emerges as a radiant sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community. From rainbow-draped stadiums to queer-led festivals, the sport weaves threads of belonging, defiance, and unapologetic celebration. As global viewership surges, it stands not just as a game, but as a lifeline for those seeking visibility and solidarity.
From Stadiums to Festivals: Building Queer Spaces in the Beautiful Game
Picture this: a sun-drenched field in northern England, where players in Marge Simpson wigs and Sporty Spice outfits chase a ball under Pride flags fluttering like confetti. This is Ball Together Now (BTN), a 2022-founded festival that draws non-professional LGBTQ+ teams from across the UK for daytime matches and euphoric nighttime raves. Organizer Lois Kay beams, “I’ve never seen so many lesbians all in one tent!” BTN’s ethos is unyielding inclusion, explicitly welcoming trans and non-binary athletes in a sport still grappling with barriers elsewhere.
This electric energy spills into professional arenas. At Arsenal Women’s matches, fan Emily Calder, a lifelong devotee, finds a queer utopia. “Arsenal women’s games are the only place you’d find as many lesbians and queer women as you would at Pride!” she exclaims. Calder’s story is emblematic: alienated by the men’s game’s toxic undercurrents, she rediscovered soccer at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, drawn by its open-hearted crowds. Queer couples link arms in the stands, rainbow scarves swaying like a collective heartbeat. Events like Baller FC’s “Slaying the Field”—a 2025 UEFA Women’s Euros bash blending short films, arm-wrestling, and line dancing—further blur lines between pitch and party, filling voids left by shuttered LGBTQ+ nightlife spots. In London alone, over half of queer venues have vanished in two decades, making these soccer-fueled gatherings indispensable hubs for connection.
Out Stars Shining Bright: Visibility That Draws and Inspires
At the heart of this allure? A constellation of openly queer players who shatter silence. The 2025 Women’s Euros boasted at least 78 out athletes among 368, a staggering 21%, dwarfing global LGBTQ+ identification rates of just 9%, per a 2023 Ipsos survey. Power couples like USWNT icons Christen Press and Tobin Heath, or Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead, embody this boldness. Mead and Miedema even quipped about their on-pitch “rivalry” turning romantic, turning potential tension into tender lore.
Contrast this with men’s soccer’s shadows. No openly gay players grace the English Premier League or Ligue 1’s top tiers. Adelaide United’s Josh Cavallo, the sole out male pro in a major league, decries it as a “very toxic place,” haunted by death threats and slurs. Homophobic flares erupt routinely: Ligue 1 clubs fined for hiding anti-bigotry badges, a 2023 USMNT-Mexico clash halted by chants. Women’s soccer, however, flips the script. Calder notes, “There’s a shocking difference in the culture… so many out gay women players.” This visibility magnetizes newcomers; her queer friends, once soccer-averse, now flock to games as de facto Pride parades.
Across the Atlantic, the USWNT amplifies this. Amid Trump-era rollbacks on LGBTQ+ rights—from health funding cuts to bathroom bans—Megan Rapinoe led a defiant charge. Skipping a 2019 White House invite post-World Cup triumph, she declared queerness “intrinsic to the success” of her squad: “You can’t win a championship without gays on your team.” Allies like Ali Krieger echoed her, forging a legacy of vocal advocacy that fans like Ed Fox hail for sidestepping “machismo and toxic masculinity.”
Defiant Roots and a Boundless Horizon
Women’s soccer’s queer magnetism isn’t accidental, it’s forged in rebellion. Banned in England for 50 years on league grounds, outlawed in 1920s Canada, and stifled under Franco’s Spain until the 1970s, the sport has always thrived on society’s edges. This marginal history resonates with those challenging heteronormativity, birthing a culture of radical joy.
Today, as attendance skyrockets, Euros finals drawing millions, it battles fresh foes: pay inequities, online harassment, and inclusion growing pains. Yet, figures like Birmingham’s Flaming Foxes captain Laura Graham insist, “Women’s soccer feels like it has something for everyone.” BTN remains her “favorite weekend,” spawning enduring queer bonds beyond the bar scene.
As the game evolves, its LGBTQ+ embrace promises broader ripples. It counters isolation with community, bigotry with brilliance. In stadium roars and festival beats, women’s soccer isn’t just played, it’s lived, a testament to resilience that invites all to join the dance. For queer hearts worldwide, it’s more than a haven: it’s home.
For 28 years, Scotland had become experts in almost-there moments – play-offs lost on penalties, last-minute concessions, campaigns that crumbled when it mattered most. Then came one insane evening at Hampden Park that rewrote everything. A 4-2 win over Denmark turned a nation’s long-suppressed scream into pure, chaotic celebration.
It finished in storybook fashion: Kenny McLean picking the ball up on the halfway line deep into stoppage time and lobbing the keeper from 50 yards. He took off sprinting, arms aloft, chased by the entire team in scenes that looked more like a street party than the end of a World Cup qualifier. Fireworks exploded overhead, Scott McTominay sank to his knees, and an entire country finally breathed out.
A Qualifying Story Too Wild to be Normal
This campaign never did anything the easy way. Injuries, red cards, 90th-minute winners, tactical curveballs – every twist seemed designed to test Scottish hearts one more time. So of course, the decisive match had to be a roller-coaster.
Scott McTominay announced the night’s tone inside three minutes with a sensational overhead kick that ripped the roof off Hampden. He stood there, kissing his fingers to the sky, soaking in a noise he’ll never forget.
Denmark equalised. Scotland went ahead again. Denmark levelled again. With every swing, the old familiar dread crept in – here we go again. Except this time, Scotland refused to blink.
Robertson, McGinn, and the Weight of a Generation
Andy Robertson and John McGinn, both 31 and scarred by more failed qualifiers than most players endure in a lifetime, played like men who knew this might be the last dance. Afterwards in the tunnel they were the loudest, the most emotional – hugging everyone, roaring in disbelief, tears mixing with sweat. They’d carried the hope for years; now they could finally set it down.
Kieran Tierney’s beautiful second-half curler looked for a moment like it might be the goal that sent Scotland through. But the script still had one more outrageous page to turn.
Hampden Loses Its Mind
The crowd lived every kick: hands on heads one minute, embracing strangers the next. Even the press box supposedly a no-emotion zone erupted when McTominay scored; grown journalists jumping and shouting like teenagers.
Then came McLean’s impossible strike. The ball hung in the night sky, dropped perfectly over the stranded keeper and Hampden detonated. Craig Gordon, 42 years old and back for one last ride, just stood there with his gloves over his face, trying to take it in.
A Dream That Took 28 Years to Arrive
Most of this squad were kids or not even born the last time Scotland went to a World Cup in 1998. Now they’ll get to live it. For the older heads it’s the end of a lifetime’s waiting; for the youngsters it’s the beginning of something huge.
When the stadium emptied, Craig Gordon stayed on the pitch with his family, calmly taking photos while the echoes of euphoria still bounced around the stands.
After nearly three decades of hurt, Scotland are going to the World Cup again and they did it in a way no one will ever forget. Football, on nights like this, is everything.
In a bold move, Alpine has announced it will switch to Mercedesengines in 2026, ending a long chapter of partnership with Renault. This significant change in strategy will make Alpinethe fourth team to be powered by Mercedes engines, joining a growing list of teams to benefit from the German manufacturer’s expertise and performance.
The End of an Era: No More Renault Engines for Alpine
The announcement marks the end of Alpine’s reliance on Renault engines, which have powered the team since its rebranding in 2021. Despite several strong moments, including occasional podium finishes, the Renault engine has often struggled to keep up with the competition in the current generation of F1 regulations, introduced in 2014. For Alpine, the decision to shift to Mercedes power comes as a strategic move to enhance performance and adapt to the upcoming changes in F1 engine regulations.
Alpine to Become the Fourth Mercedes-Powered Team in 2026
This partnership with Mercedes means that from 2026, Alpine will be one of four teams powered by Mercedes engines. Currently, Mercedes supplies engines to three other teams, and with Alpine joining the fold, it solidifies Mercedes’ position as the dominant engine supplier in the sport. This move is seen as a potential game-changer for Alpine, who will now have access to Mercedes’ superior engineering and power, which could boost their competitiveness in the sport.
The partnership will see Alpine not only adopt Mercedes’ power units but also benefit from Mercedes’ gearboxes, ensuring the team has the complete package for the new generation of Formula 1 regulations. This shift is expected to significantly impact Alpine’s performance as they work toward becoming a leading contender in F1.
Why the Change?
For Alpine, the decision to no longer use Renault engines and instead switch to Mercedes power is rooted in a desire for greater performance and consistency. While Renault’s engine program has had its successes, Alpine has struggled to match the speed and reliability of competitors like Mercedes and Ferrariin recent seasons.
With the introduction of new F1 engine regulations in 2026, Alpine is looking to align itself with a supplier that can offer not only cutting-edge performance but also the engineering expertise needed to meet the evolving demands of the sport. Mercedes, with its proven track record of success and dominance in the hybrid era, is seen as the perfect fit for Alpine’s aspirations.
Looking Ahead: Alpine’s Future with Mercedes Power
As Alpine prepares to enter the 2026 season with Mercedes engines powering their cars, the team will no longer be burdened by the challenges of developing an engine internally. The shift will allow them to focus more on their chassis development and overall race strategy. With Mercedes providing a reliable and competitive engine, Alpine’s ambitions to climb the F1 ladder are likely to be accelerated.
This partnership is also part of a broader trend in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly relying on established, high-performance engine suppliers. With Mercedes now supplying engines to four teams, including Alpine, the manufacturer is solidifying its role as a key player in F1 for years to come.
The announcement that Alpine will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026 signals a new era for the team and the sport. By joining the ranks of the Mercedes-powered teams, Alpine aims to leverage Mercedes’ superior technology and engineering to bolster their performance on the grid. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how their switch to Mercedes power shapes their future in Formula 1.
The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated showdowns in boxing history. On Friday, November 15, 2024, Mike Tyson will return to the ring for only his second fight since retiring in 2005, and his opponent is none other than the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. This fight has been years in the making, and it promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
The Road to the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight
After multiple delays, health concerns, and constant speculation, the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight will finally take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. For Tyson, this fight marks a return to the sport, while for Jake Paul, it’s another step in his quest to prove himself as a legitimate force in the world of fighting.
Leading up to this monumental event, the excitement is palpable, and fight fans are buzzing with anticipation. To add to the drama, there will be a series of events this week designed to build the hype for the big night.
The Event Schedule
Starting on Tuesday, November 12, a week of thrilling events will unfold. Here’s a look at the schedule:
Wednesday, November 13: The Final Press Conference at 7 p.m. ET at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas, will set the stage for the fight. Fans can catch the press conference live across multiple platforms, including Netflix’s YouTube channels, Instagram, and Tudum.
Thursday, November 14: Public Weigh-ins at 7 p.m. ET. This key moment will let fans see the fighters up close before the Jake Paul fight. Streaming will be available on Netflix’s YouTube and TikTok.
Friday, November 15:
Preliminary Card at 5:30 p.m. ET: The night kicks off with several exciting matchups, including Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight title.
Main Card at 8 p.m. ET: The long-awaited Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul will be the highlight of the evening, available globally via Netflix.
Full Fight Card
In addition to the headlining Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight, the night will feature several action-packed bouts, including:
Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson (Heavyweight Bout)
Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (Undisputed Lightweight Title)
Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos (WBC Welterweight Title)
Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool (WBO Super Middleweight Title)
Lucas Bahdi vs. Armando Casamonica (Lightweight Bout)
Bruce Carrington vs. Dana Coolwell (Featherweight Bout)
Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes (Middleweight Bout)
Each of these bouts will bring its own level of excitement to the night, making it a must-watch event for any fighting fan.
How to Watch the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Fight
For the first time, the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, available on all Netflix plans. The Jake Paul fight will begin with the preliminary card at 5:30 p.m. ET, followed by the main card, including the Tyson vs Paul fight, at 8:00 p.m. ET. Make sure to set your reminders for this unforgettable night of action.
What’s at Stake in the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight?
The stakes are high for both fighters. For Mike Tyson, the Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul event represents a chance to prove that, despite his age, he still has the skills to dominate in the ring. Tyson is a living legend in the sport, and this fight will add another chapter to his incredible legacy.
For Jake Paul, this fight is a golden opportunity to solidify his place in the world of boxing. Known for his controversial and brash persona, Paul has already won over a large fan base, but a victory over Tyson would elevate his status to a whole new level, proving that he’s more than just a YouTuber. It would be a huge statement in the world of fighting.
Why the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight Is So Special
This fight isn’t just about boxing. It’s about two larger-than-life personalities from completely different worlds coming together for a historic battle. Tyson, a former world champion with a storied career, and Paul, a modern-day internet sensation, are set to collide in the ring in a match that has fans and analysts alike buzzing with excitement. The clash between experience and youth, legend and upstart, has generated incredible interest.
Don’t Miss the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight
The Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight on November 15 promises to be an epic showdown that boxing fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tuning in to see Tyson make his return to the ring or watching Jake Paul’s next move in his boxing journey, this event will deliver fighting action and drama like never before.
So, mark your calendars, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a night that will go down in history. The Jake Paul fight with Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul could very well be the most talked-about event in boxing for years to come.
Known for his iconic “Woj Bombs” — the term coined for his relentless NBA breaking news and reporting — ESPN’s senior insider Adrian Wojnarowski delivered a personal bombshell on Wednesday. The renowned sports journalist announced his retirement from the news industry, signaling the end of an era for NBA coverage. Wojnarowski revealed that he would be stepping away from his role at ESPN to take on a new challenge: becoming the general manager of the men’sbasketballteam at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University.In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Wojnarowski reflected on his career and the decision to walk away from the fast-paced world of NBA news. “Thirty-seven years ago, the Hartford Courant gave me my first byline and I never stopped chasing the thrill of it all. This craft transformed my life, but I’ve decided to retire from ESPN and the news industry,” Wojnarowski wrote. “I understand the commitment required in my role and it’s an investment that I’m no longer driven to make. Time isn’t in endless supply, and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful. I leave with overwhelming gratitude for countless mentors and colleagues, subjects and stories, readers and viewers. No one has benefitted more than me from the belief, trust, and generosity of others.”
Wojnarowski’s departure from ESPN marks the conclusion of a remarkable run at the sports network, where he had become synonymous with NBA breaking news. Since joining ESPN in 2017 as its senior NBA insider, Wojnarowski was the go-to source for fans, athletes, and insiders alike, often scooping major stories before anyone else. Before his time at ESPN, Wojnarowski built his reputation at Yahoo Sports, where he spent nearly a decade, and also had stints at The Record of New Jersey, The Fresno Bee, and The Waterbury (Conn.) Republican-American.
In response to the news of his retirement, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Wojnarowski’s work ethic and dedication to journalism. “I’ve known and admired Woj since we first worked together at Yahoo! in 2007. His work ethic is second to none. He’s extraordinarily talented and fearless. He has led the industry at ESPN, and his dedication to the craft and to fans is legendary,” Pitaro said in a statement. “While we will miss his daily output, we completely understand his decision to make a lifestyle change and slow down a bit. We know he will continue to thrive in this next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.”
For Wojnarowski, this new chapter represents a return to his roots. A 1991 graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Wojnarowski has maintained a deep connection with the school throughout his career. He was named the Alumnus of the Year in 2019 and inducted onto the Russell Jandoli School of Communication’s Wall of Distinguished Graduates, a testament to his enduring influence and contribution to journalism. Now, he will return to the university in a more direct role, helping to shape the future of its men’s basketball program.
“After all these years reporting on everyone’s teams, I’m headed back to my own,” Wojnarowski said. His role as general manager of the St. Bonaventure men’s basketball team will involve advising the coaching staff on a range of critical issues, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, managing the transfer portal, fundraising, and recruiting. In an era of rapid changes within college sports, including the rise of NIL and the ever-fluid nature of player transfers, Wojnarowski’s experience and strategic insight are expected to be invaluable to the Bonnies’ program.
“I’m thrilled and humbled to return to St. Bonaventure with an opportunity to serve the university, Coach Mark Schmidt, and our elite Atlantic 10 men’s basketball program,” Wojnarowski said in a statement. “In these changing times of college sports, I’m eager to join a championship program that combines high-level basketball, national television exposure, pro preparation, and NIL opportunities with an intimate, supportive educational environment.” His move to join the Bonnies’ staff underscores his deep commitment to the school and his enthusiasm for helping guide the basketball program through an increasingly complex collegesports landscape.
Last season, the Bonnies finished with a respectable 20-13 overall record and a 9-9 mark in the competitive Atlantic 10 Conference. With Wojnarowski’s addition to the program’s leadership, there is hope that the team can continue to grow and excel in the coming years. His vast network of contacts within the basketball world, combined with his knowledge of the game’s inner workings, makes him a significant asset for St. Bonaventure.
The three-time National Sports Media Association’s National Sportswriter of the Year leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected figures in sports journalism. Over the course of his career, Wojnarowski became known for his dogged pursuit of the truth, his unrelenting work ethic, and his ability to consistently break some of the biggest stories in basketball. For NBA fans, his “Woj Bombs” became a staple of the modern sports media landscape, often shaking the league with surprising trade news, free-agent signings, and coaching changes.
While Wojnarowski’s retirement from reporting marks the end of an era, his contributions to the sports world will continue in his new role. His upcoming introduction as St. Bonaventure’s basketball general manager is scheduled for next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, where he will officially begin the next phase of his illustrious career.