Latest news with #BahrainGrandPrix
Daily Tribune
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Tribune
Ben Sulayem Returns, FIA Presidency Bid
TDT | Manama Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA's outspoken president, has confirmed he'll run for a second four-year term in December's election. Speaking at the Monaco Grand Prix, the 63-year-old Emirati said he's determined to keep growing the sport and bolstering the FIA's influence, even as his first term has stirred plenty of debate. A Mission to Grow Motorsport Ben Sulayem, a former rally driver, insists his work at the FIA is far from done. 'Three years in a complex federation like the FIA is not enough,' he said, reflecting on his tenure since succeeding Jean Todt in 2021. He's proud of turning around the FIA's finances—a €4.7 million profit last year compared to a €24 million loss in 2021—and securing Cadillac as Formula One's 11th team for 2026. But he's not resting on his laurels, vowing to make the FIA 'stronger and stronger.' Controversies and Critics It hasn't been a smooth ride. Ben Sulayem's term has seen clashes with Formula One's commercial rights holder, Liberty Media, over deals he calls 'raw' for the FIA, which owns the championship. His crackdown on driver swearing, with hefty fines, has riled stars in F1 and rallying. Staff departures, including senior figures like Shaila-Ann Rao, sparked talk of an exodus, though Rao's return as an advisor has steadied the ship. Critics also point to statute changes that could curb the FIA's audit and ethics committees, raising questions about transparency. Open to a Challenge With no confirmed rival yet, Ben Sulayem welcomed the prospect of competition, including from twice world rally champion Carlos Sainz, father of the Ferrari F1 driver. 'Let him stand. That is democracy,' he said, brushing off concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The Emirati remains unfazed by detractors, claiming he's 'cleaned up the FIA house' and shrugging off negativity. 'I am the last one who cares what they say,' he added, focused on the FIA's 147 member organizations. Concorde Talks and Future Plans As a new Concorde Agreement between F1 stakeholders nears, Ben Sulayem says negotiations with Liberty Media are on track. His goal is clear: elevate the FIA's clout while expanding motorsport's reach. With the Bahrain Grand Prix a key fixture on the F1 calendar, his regional ties add a layer of influence, but it's his broader vision that will define his campaign. Key Takeaways Ben Sulayem seeks re-election to bolster FIA and motorsport Financial Recovery: FIA's €4.7m profit in 2024 reverses 2021's €24m loss He invites challengers like Sainz, supporting open competition You Know What? Ben Sulayem, the first non-European FIA president, has overseen the addition of Cadillac as F1's 11th team, a move initially resisted by the sport but backed by the FIA's 147 member organizations.
The Star
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Star
Exclusive-Motor racing-Ben Sulayem declares bid for second term as FIA president
Formula One F1 - Bahrain Grand Prix - Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain - April 12, 2025 FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is pictured during qualifying REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed MONACO (Reuters) -Mohammed Ben Sulayem will stand for a second four-year term as FIA president in December, saying he would welcome any rival candidate and that he is on a mission to grow motorsport and make Formula One's governing body stronger. Speaking to Reuters at the Monaco Grand Prix, the Emirati said he had taken the decision, which was widely assumed, after conferring with members of the International Automobile Federation. "I feel having three years in a complex federation like the FIA is not enough," the 63-year-old former rally driver explained, stating his re-election bid openly for the first time. He said he was proud of what had been achieved under his mandate and saw no reason to do anything differently second time around. "Do I need more time? Yes. Has it been easy? Never. Has it been enjoyable? Sometimes. "So, I am going (to stand). I consulted with most of the members. I speak to them." The Emirati said he wanted to "keep growing motorsport. To make the FIA stronger and stronger. This is my ambition and that's what I will do.". He suggested the FIA, which ultimately owns the Formula One championship although the long-term commercial rights are held by Liberty Media, had been "neglected". "Raw deals have been given to the FIA. It doesn't make sense to me that one (Formula One) driver and one team principal make more money than all of the FIA, and the FIA owns the championship. Is that fair?," he said. Ben Sulayem's first term has been marked by controversy since he was elected in 2021 as successor to former Ferrari team boss Jean Todt. There have been battles with Liberty Media over commercial matters and accusations of sexism, and he has angered drivers in both rallying and Formula One by clamping down on swearing with heavy fines. Senior staff have left the FIA, leading to reports of an exodus, and there have been questions raised about statute changes that critics say will limit the powers of audit and ethics committees. FIA PROFIT On the plus side, the FIA last week reported a 4.7 million euro ($5.34 million) profit after reporting a loss of 24 million euros in 2021. A new "Concorde Agreement" between all Formula One stakeholders is being negotiated and both the FIA and Liberty Media say talks are going well. Former FIA secretary general for motorsport Shaila-Ann Rao, one of the high-profile departees, has returned as an advisor to the president, and Cadillac will join as an 11th team in 2026 after FIA backing in the face of initial F1 resistance. "I cleaned up the FIA house," said Ben Sulayem, who recognised there were enemies who wanted him out but said that was of no concern. "Honest people are there. My back is not anymore with knives in it. "All of this negativity; 'Oh, he's unpredictable, he's very controversial'. I am the last one who cares what they (the critics and media) do, what they say. To me it is always about the (FIA) members. "But I am more than happy. Maybe I am doing something that irritates them." No rival candidate has committed to standing against the Emirati, although twice world rally champion Carlos Sainz -- father of the Formula One driver and namesake -- is considering doing so. Ben Sulayem said he would be happy for Sainz to stand and it would be for others to decide on any potential conflict of interest. "Let him stand. That is democracy," he said. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Ed Osmond)
Scottish Sun
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Steven Gerrard kills rumours he's back in Scotland to become Rangers manager as he posts video from far-off location
STEVEN GERRARD is the favourite to become the next Rangers manager. But despite rumours he's been in Scotland to seal the deal, he seems to be on the other side of the world. 3 Steven Gerrard is one of the leading contenders to become Rangers manager Credit: Getty Images - Getty 3 Gerrard has tagged in at the Four Seasons in Bahrain Credit: INSTAGRAM/@STEVENGERRARD 3 He recently took in the Bahrain Grand Prix Credit: Getty SunSport exclusively revealed this week that Gerrard was one of the front-runners to land the role, alongside Russell Martin. According to reports out of Spain, Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti remains in contention as well. But so many signs have appeared to point that Gerrard is leading the chase. Some bookies SUSPENDED betting on Gerrard becoming Rangers manager for second time earlier this week. Since markets have returned, the Liverpool legend has been the odds-on favourite to land the role. Alongside all of the drama, rumours have been rife across social media and fan forums that Gerrard is IN Scotland. However, that does NOT appear to be the case. Gerrard has been living in Bahrain since he took the Al-Ettifaq job in Saudi Arabia in early 2023. He's remained there in the country just across the border since being dismissed form the Saudi role at the beginning of this year. And it appears that's exactly where he is NOW. Steven Gerrard spotted at major sporting event as he gives personal update after Al-Ettifaq exit Gerrard has posted an Instagram story from the stunning Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain. Seemingly filmed by Gerrard himself, the clip shows the idyllic setting of Bahrain Bay in Manama. Gerrard and his family have been living in Manama, the country's capital, for the past couple of years. More to follow... For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Scottish Sun. is your go to destination for the best celebrity news, football news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheScottishSun.
Sky News AU
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sky News AU
Zara Tindall and Princess Eugenie step out in support of Prince William and Princess Catherine at Buckingham Palace Garden Party amid ongoing royal rift
Zara Tindall and Princess Eugenie have thrown their support behind Prince William and Princess Catherine, attending Tuesday's Buckingham Palace Garden Party in a show of solidarity. The annual event, one of several hosted at Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland, typically sees the Sovereign take the lead. But with King Charles III and Queen Camilla tied up at another historic engagement earlier in the day, it was William and Catherine who stepped into hosting duties. The party began around 4pm local time, with working royals Prince William, 42, Princess Catherine, 43, Prince Edward, 61, and Duchess Sophie, 60, taking their places on the palace steps as "God Save The King" rang out. Catherine was a vision in a pale yellow Emilia Wickstead dress, paired with a Philip Treacy hat- repeating the very same headpiece she wore to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding seven years ago. She also wore the diamond Robinson Pelham earrings she chose for her own wedding to William in 2011. Guests were treated to tea, finger sandwiches and mini cakes, as the royal couple made their way across the iconic lawns to greet attendees from various organisations and patronages. Among the sea of top hats and fascinators were Zara Tindall and Princess Eugenie, who mingled with guests and chatted warmly. Zara, daughter of Princess Anne, wore a soft pink and white floral frock by Angelika, while Eugenie, daughter of Prince Andrew, opted for a navy and white spotted midi dress with a coordinating navy hat. Their presence follows a similar show of family unity at the Bahrain Grand Prix in April, where they were seen catching up with Princess Beatrice and Peter Phillips in the paddock area of the Sakhir circuit. While many of the late Queen Elizabeth II's grandchildren remain close, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have notably been absent from royal gatherings since their departure from the Firm and move to Montecito, California in 2020. Earlier this month, Zara candidly addressed the family's strained dynamic during an appearance at a London Sporting Club lunch. "It is very hard to see from the outside, but 100 per cent, it is a family that is still going through the same struggles other people do," she said, according to The Sun. "Whether they are relationships, obviously, it is very easy to see every day. We're still very supportive of each other." Zara and her husband, retired rugby star Mike Tindall, have reportedly cut contact with Harry and Meghan following their repeated public criticisms of the royal family. Eugenie, who was once considered the Sussexes' last remaining ally within the fold, may also be shifting her stance. Her decision to attend the garden party has been seen by some as a sign of loyalty to William and Catherine, particularly after reports emerged that Harry "cut off" contact with her over a meeting she had with outspoken broadcaster Piers Morgan in 2023. In addition to Zara and Eugenie, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, long-time supporters of King Charles, attended the garden party. William and Catherine were seen warmly reconnecting with several guests, including families tied to their various causes. One poignant reunion was with the family of Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old budding photographer who died from cancer last year. Liz and her family had met Catherine, a cancer survivor, during a royal investiture in October, just weeks before her untimely death. "You changed her life for the better," Liz's mother Vicky Robayna told the Princess, as per The Sun. In Liz's honour, the family has since launched a charity called Capture, aimed at supporting those affected by Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour. Catherine was gifted Jellycat toys shaped like lemon pie and pickled onion- playful tokens Liz once gave to those she loved. Kate smiled, saying, "It matches my dress, how did you know? "…If you need any help fundraising, maybe I can help. Please stay in touch, really." The couple also spoke with Steven Frank, a Holocaust survivor whom Catherine previously photographed in 2020, and young double amputee Tony Hudgell, who missed the King's garden party earlier this month due to traffic. William laughed, telling Tony he'd "chosen a better year" to attend this time, recalling that it had been raining during Tony's planned visit.
Wales Online
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Lewis Hamilton's astronomic net worth now, shock name change and megastar girlfriends
Lewis Hamilton's astronomic net worth now, shock name change and megastar girlfriends The Formula One star's staggering wealth has been revealed in the 2025 Sunday Times Rich List Hamilton is one of the richest sportsmen in the world Formula One star Sir Lewis Hamilton has once again been named as the UK's richest active sportsperson, according to the 2025 Sunday Times Rich List which was revealed on Friday. The seven-time world champion was last year named as the 350th richest person in the UK, with a staggering net worth of £350 million. However, since his lucrative move from Mercedes to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 Formula One World Championship, his wealth has soared, with his net worth now standing at £385 million, putting him at 324th in the list. The shock move to Ferrari stunned the F1 world when it was announced last year, with Hamilton signing a two-year deal with Mercedes the previous summer before choosing to exercise a one year break clause. The 40-year-old will reportedly earn a staggering £50 million per year with his new team, with his contract agreed for two seasons and an option for a third in 2027. That figure has smashed the record for the biggest F1 salary ever, with the record set by Max Verstappen last season when he banked a base salary of £47 million. Hamilton could end up earning even more than his £50 million salary, with that amount not believed to be inclusive of performances bonuses, meaning it could rise significantly higher if the season goes well. However, with six races now under his belt with Ferrari, the British star is yet to finish on the podium, with his fifth place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix his best result of the World Drivers' Championship so far. His last World Championship win came in 2020, when he sealed his seventh title to equal Michael Schumacher's tally and become the most successful racing driver of all time. However, since then, a lot has happened in Hamilton's life away from the track, with the F1 star romantically linked with a string of A-list stars and even revealing plans to change his name. Here's what you need to know. Shock name change In 2021, Hamilton was awarded a knighthood for services to motorsport and invited his mother Carmen - who split from his father Anthony when he was a child - to watch him receive the honour from Prince Charles at Windsor Castle. The following year, he revealed plans to pay a major tribute to his mum, explaining that he was in the process of legally changing his name to include her maiden name, Larbalestier, as a middle name. "None of you might know that my mum's [sur]name is Larbalestier, and I'm just about to put that in my name," the racing ace explained. "Because I don't really fully understand the whole idea of why, when people get married, the woman loses her name. I really want her name to continue on with the Hamilton name." As of this year, however, it is unclear whether Hamilton has actually successfully changed his name yet or not. Megastar girlfriends As one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, as well as one of the biggest names in world sport, Hamilton has unsurprisingly seen his romantic life placed under the microscope over the course of his career. The 40-year-old is certainly no stranger to a high-profile relationship, having reportedly dated a string of A-listers in recent years. Most notably, he was in on-off relationship with Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger for around eight years, with their romance well-documented in the tabloid press. The couple met at the MTV EMAs in 2007 but split up three times before calling it quits for good in February 2015, with their final separation leaving them both "devastated". Scherzinger later started relationships with two other sportsmen, dating Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov before later getting engaged to former Scotland rugby international Thom Evans. Hamilton, meanwhile, has since been linked with several high-profile names from across the music, fashion and entertainment worlds. He has played down rumours that he was dating supermodel Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna, who he described as just good friends. The British star has also been linked with singers Rita Ora, Nicki Minaj and Shakira, as well as Kanye West's model ex-girlfriend Juliana Nalu. Earlier this year, he sparked further romance rumours when he was spotted having lunch with Modern Family actress Sofia Vegara, - who is 12 years older than him - in New York. At the time, TMZ reported that the pair were "engrossed in conversation" with each other, but suggestions that they were ever romantically involved have been played down with the two reportedly nothing more than good friends. Hollywood film role Later this year, Hamilton will share the big screen with the likes of Brad Pitt and Javier Bardem, as F1: The Movie is released in the cinemas. The film sees Pitt play Sonny Hayes, an F1 driver who retires following a horror crash, only to be asked to come out of retirement to mentor a rookie prodigy. Hamilton stars in the film alongside all of the drivers from the ten F1 teams from the 2023 season, who appear as themselves. However, he is also credited as a producer on the film and has been praised for the "instrumental" role he played in helping to bring the story to life. Director Joseph Kosinski revealed that Hamilton played a major role early on in production and was interested to gauge Pitt's abilities behind the wheel. But the first day was really fun. It was me, Brad and Lewis Hamilton at the track together, all of us jumping in cars and driving each other around in sports cars, which was one of those things, I'll never forget having Lewis Hamilton as your driving instructor. 'Brad and Damson are both driving in this film and in order to get them into these race cars, it required months, literally months of training,' Kosinski told "The first day was really fun. It was me, Brad and Lewis Hamilton at the track together, all of us jumping in cars and driving each other around in sports cars, which was one of those things, I'll never forget having Lewis Hamilton as your driving instructor. 'But what we learned and what Lewis was really interested [in] was seeing, did Brad know how to drive, right? Because if Brad can't drive, this whole film wasn't going to work," he added. Article continues below 'What Lewis was very happy to discover was that Brad had a lot of just natural ability right from the start, and I don't know where he got that or if he was born with it, and he rides motorcycles, which I think has something to do with it. "But he's just a very talented, naturally gifted driver, which for Lewis after that first meeting gave him a lot of confidence that we might have a shot at pulling this off."
