Manchester United fans in favor of leaving Old Trafford

A majority of Manchester United fans favor building a new stadium rather than re-developing Old Trafford, according to a survey released on Tuesday. (Reuters)
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Updated 05 November 2024
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Manchester United fans in favor of leaving Old Trafford

  • Of 50,000 United season ticket holders, club members and executive club members polled, 52 percent said they preferred the idea of a new facility
  • The Daily Telegraph has reported that a final decision on which option to choose is likely to be taken in the first half of 2025

MACNHESTER: A majority of Manchester United fans favor building a new stadium rather than re-developing Old Trafford, according to a survey released on Tuesday.
Of 50,000 United season ticket holders, club members and executive club members polled, 52 percent said they preferred the idea of a new facility, while 31 percent supported the re-development of one of the most recognizable stadiums in world football. Another 17 percent were undecided.
United’s cross-city neighbors Manchester City left their Maine Road stadium in 2003 to move into the new City of Manchester Stadium, but Premier League rivals Liverpool have re-developed their Anfield home.
United released artist’s images in September of a potential Old Trafford regeneration project and have indicated that a new stadium could be part of a multi-billion-pound re-development project.
The club’s owners are considering options in conjunction with the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, which includes former United defender Gary Neville and World Athletics president Sebastian Coe among its members.
The Daily Telegraph has reported that a final decision on which option to choose is likely to be taken in the first half of 2025.
The Task Force is understood to have focused its discussions on building a new 100,000-capacity stadium rather than redeveloping Old Trafford.
Rick McGagh, United’s director of fan engagement, said: “We know how important our home is to fans and we need to listen to them and gain all their views and insights in order to develop the world-class stadium they deserve.
“We are able to view the results through different lenses to understand if our season ticket holders feel differently about anything than say our official members. And if younger fans have different views to older fans.”


Sweden ends rape inquiry allegedly targeting Kylian Mbappe

Updated 23 min 14 sec ago
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Sweden ends rape inquiry allegedly targeting Kylian Mbappe

  • Lead investigator: ‘The evidence is not sufficient to proceed and the investigation is therefore closed’
  • Kylian Mbappe’s lawyer said in October that he was ‘shocked’ to see his name linked to the investigation

STOCKHOLM: An investigation into alleged rape and sexual assault in Stockholm which Swedish media said targeted Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been closed due to insufficient evidence, the Swedish prosecutor said Thursday.

The 25-year-old French star, one of the highest-profile players in world football, visited the Swedish capital October 9-11 with a group of people after he was not selected by his country for a Nations League match.

Sweden’s prosecution authority announced on October 15 that it was investigating an alleged incident that occurred at an upscale Stockholm hotel on October 10, without mentioning the suspect by name.

Several Swedish media outlets, including newspapers Aftonbladet and Expressen and public broadcaster SVT, identified Mbappe as the suspect.

“My assessment is that the evidence is not sufficient to proceed and the investigation is therefore closed,” prosecutor Marina Chirakova said in a statement that also did not mention Mbappe by name.

Chirakova said the suspect had “not been notified of suspicion of a crime.”

Mbappe’s lawyer said in October that he was “shocked” to see his name linked to the investigation.

Speaking for the first time about the case on Sunday, he told French television show Clique he was “not involved.”

“I haven’t received anything, no summons... I’m not involved,” he said.

According to Aftonbladet, Mbappe and his entourage dined at a restaurant one evening before going on to a nightclub.

Aftonbladet said the complaint was filed on October 12 after the alleged victim had sought medical attention.

Expressen reported that police had seized some clothing as evidence, saying it consisted of women’s underwear, a pair of black trousers and a black top.

Photographs showed police officers leaving the hotel with brown bags.

Mbappe has had a difficult season since moving to reigning European champions Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer, failing to find his top form.

However the Frenchman scored in Madrid’s 3-2 win against Italian side Atalanta on Tuesday which revived Real’s flagging bid to regain their Champions League title.

Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham were all on the scoresheet in Bergamo as Madrid moved up to 20th place in the Champions League table, on nine points from six matches.

The Spanish giants would have been at risk of dropping out of the Champions League play-off places if they had lost.

Mbappe is one of the hottest properties in world football.

He won the World Cup as a teenager in 2018 in Russia and scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final in Qatar which France lost on penalties to Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

At Paris Saint-Germain he was part of a superstar trio with Messi and Brazilian forward Neymar.


‘A mess’ — how cricket’s power dynamics are playing out in a congested calendar

Updated 12 December 2024
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‘A mess’ — how cricket’s power dynamics are playing out in a congested calendar

  • The game gives the appearance of having been hijacked by national, commercial and self-interests

Over the past two weeks this column has observed the storm clouds gathering menacingly above the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Mostly, they gave dim hope of clearance. Suddenly, on Dec. 6, they rolled back and light seemed to shine through.

Avoidance of the head-on collision between India’s unblinking refusal to play in Pakistan and the latter’s refusal to accept a hybrid model seemed possible, allowing preparations to proceed.

India’s inalienable position, based on security fears, provided it with the balance of negotiating power, quite apart from its commercial strength. Pakistan backed itself into a corner by failing to accept the hybrid model. Under that proposal, India will play its matches on neutral territory, possibly the UAE.

Pakistan’s logic for denial was expressed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who, in discussion with chair of the Pakistan Cricket Broad and Minister of Interior Mohsin Naqvi, said: “Pakistan’s honor comes first, and everything else follows.”

The only way out of this deadlock, other than the nuclear options of postponement, cancellation or total change of location, was a shift in stance. The first was the PCB’s suggestion that its players would not be safe in India. This was rebuffed by India, as Pakistan played there in 2023. Secondly, the PCB proposed an extended hybrid model by which Pakistan would not travel to India to play in two future ICC tournaments hosted there — the Women’s 2025 ODI World Cup and 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, to be co-hosted with Sri Lanka. In these tournaments, the PCB seeks to be treated on the basis of equality and respect.

This translates into repudiation of “one-sided arrangements,” whereby Pakistan traveled to play in ICC events in India, such as the 2023 ODI World Cup, but India did not reciprocate by playing in Pakistan. It is a bold call, seeking to challenge India’s pre-eminent position in cricket’s power politics.

Some may argue that it is overdue. It is unlikely the PCB has forgotten the humiliation which it suffered in the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in the 2023 ODI World Cup group match. The 132,000-capacity arena was populated entirely by blue shirted, partisan Indians.

It seems a little bit of respect might resolve the issue but it is slow to emerge. In an attempt to have the extended hybrid model codified, the PCB is understood to have requested a written assurance from the ICC that it would be implemented for events to be hosted by India up to 2027. The request has caused ridicule on Indian social media and an impasse in relations between parties.

There have been abundant behind the scenes meetings, cancelled meetings, negotiations and discussions between ICC and country board members. The crisis is a drama featuring a new chair and a new order at the ICC, entwinement of board chairs and politicians, deep, long-lasting nationalist pride and sentiment, power and influence and, not least, money, driven by broadcasting contracts.

Somewhere in all of this lies the game. Cricket gives the appearance of having been hijacked by national, commercial and self-interests. The ICC’s outgoing chair does little to dispel that judgement.

Greg Barclay was in post for four years. During his tenure, the international game has become impossibly congested, a “mess” in his words. Even he admitted being unable to keep abreast of all the matches and tournaments taking place simultaneously.

The feeling is shared. This is the price of growth, so coveted by the game. It is not going away because there is nothing to stop it, other than the removal of funding.

Earlier in the year, Barclay described the ICC as not fit for purpose, a remarkably forthright indictment of the impotency of the organization he led. The view seems to be based on concerns over an outdated financial model which may fail to generate sufficient funds to sustain growth.

Furthermore, internal change is hampered by an imbalanced structure which comprises 12 full members and 96 associates, each with an agenda, three more dominant than the others and possessing superior voting rights. The ICC is unlikely to dissolve itself, so the future lies along the same structure but now with a highly connected Indian in charge.

In this context, Pakistan’s lone wolf approach must be judged. Naqvi has said: “We will do whatever’s best for cricket” and “We need to settle this once and for all.” What may be best for cricket can be interpreted in several ways. Attempting to curb India’s power may be one. A lack of desire to rock the boat too energetically in return for some respect may be another. Recognition that the only real solution is a hybrid model tempered by commensurate compensation for Pakistan is most plausible.

Meanwhile, the tournament’s schedule is still to be released. The parting of clouds was temporary and the ICC was unable to capitalize on the opportunity. In that vacuum, mischief appeared on Dec. 9 in a promotional feature released by the tournament broadcaster, Star Sports, which failed to mention Pakistan as the host nation. Unsurprisingly, social media tensions were inflamed to boiling point.

Despite Pakistan’s push back, the power balance remains firmly with India. The national and diplomatic tensions between the two spill over into relations between the respective cricket boards. Having been granted hosting rights, Pakistan has its pride and aspiration to protect, as well as infrastructure investment. In attempting to exercise its rarely given hosting rights, it has challenged the status quo, a risky venture.

A believer in conspiracy theory might suggest that India laid a trap by delaying, or being allowed to delay, its decision not to travel to Pakistan until the last minute. Pakistan does seem trapped, assailed by Indian media. It stands to lose heavily if it does not participate in the tournament. Last week, common sense might have saved the situation. This week, respect is required to avoid Pakistan being shrugged off.

The mess to which Barclay referred is not limited to the international schedule. It clearly applies to the Champions Trophy.


‘Incredible honor’ for Lebanese star Arakji as Dubai Basketball debut looms

Updated 12 December 2024
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‘Incredible honor’ for Lebanese star Arakji as Dubai Basketball debut looms

  • 30-year-old’s first game will be against Mornar of Montenegro at Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday, Dec. 15

DUBAI: Dubai Basketball’s latest signing Wael Arakji is proud of becoming the team’s first Lebanese player.

The 30-year-old is the reigning Basketball Champions League Asia MVP after helping Al-Riyadi to championship glory in 2024 and now has his sights set on a new chapter in his career.

Dubai Basketball is currently second in Europe’s ABA League in its inaugural season. “I’m most excited to be part of a club with such big ambitions,” he said.

“Dubai Basketball is building something special, and I’m eager to contribute to the team’s success. They’re blending international standards with their vision for growth, and I’m excited to be part of that process.”

Arakji will make his Dubai Basketball debut when they take on Mornar at the Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday, Dec. 15.

“It’s also exciting to play in a league like the ABA, where the competition is high, and I can test myself against some of the best,” he said.

With championships in Lebanon, Qatar and Tunisia under his belt, Arakji wants to add Dubai to that list.

He has two Asia Champions League winners’ medals to his name and spent a summer with the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, further reinforcing his on-court credentials.

“My ambition is to help Dubai Basketball compete at the highest level and push for championships. I want to continue improving my game, building chemistry with my teammates, and making a significant impact on both ends of the court.”

Not only is Arakji Dubai Basketball’s first Lebanese player, but he will also be the first from his nation to compete in the ABA League.

“It’s an incredible honor to be the first Lebanese player to join Dubai Basketball and the ABA League,” he said. “I’m proud to represent my country and take this step forward in my career.

“This is not just about me; it’s about opening doors for other Lebanese talents and proving that we can compete on some of the biggest regional stages.”

An icon in his homeland, Arakji helped his country to the 2022 Arab Basketball Championship, and finished runner-up in the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup. He was named MVP in both tournaments.

“Representing Lebanon has always been a great honor and responsibility. Every time I step on the court, I carry the pride and passion of my country with me. Moving to Dubai, I want to continue that legacy, making my country proud.”

With an 8-3 record for the season, the team has built an excellent platform, and Arakji is excited at the prospect of competing. “I’ve had the chance to meet some of the guys, and I’m impressed.

“There’s a strong mix of talent, work ethic, and camaraderie within the group. Everyone’s focused on the same goal: winning. I’m looking forward to building that connection further.”


Lenovo Gulf 12 Hours returns to Yas Marina Circuit

Updated 12 December 2024
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Lenovo Gulf 12 Hours returns to Yas Marina Circuit

  • The region’s first regional endurance race celebrates its 14th edition on Dec. 14-15

ABU DHABI: Following last Sunday’s F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, motorsport fans in the UAE are set for more excitement as the 2024 Lenovo Gulf 12 Hours comes to Yas Marina Circuit on Dec. 14-15.

The event is the 14th edition of the region’s biggest legacy endurance race and is held in two parts, beginning with an eight-hour race. After a two-hour break, it then concludes with a dramatic four-hour sprint to the checkered flag.

This year’s lineup includes 25 cars from 19 elite teams, featuring manufacturers such as Audi, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche.

Three previous champions — Kessel Racing, AF Corse and 2 Seas Motorsport — will once again be in action.

Fans can also look forward to performances in the Pro class, headlined by two-time GT World Challenge Europe champion Jules Gounon representing 2 Seas Motorsport.


F1 Academy winner Abbi Pulling excited about stepping up to GB3

Updated 12 December 2024
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F1 Academy winner Abbi Pulling excited about stepping up to GB3

  • ‘It’s such a positive time to be a female in motorsport’
  • Brit won record 9 races in the 2024 women-only series

ABU DHABI: In her own words, Abbi Pulling is “living the dream.”

The 21-year-old racing driver wrapped up her historic year on the track by clinching the F1 Academy championship last weekend at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit, where she won two of the three races, and was second in the third.

Overall, Pulling enjoyed a record nine race wins in the female-only series in 2024, along with 10 poles. The Rodin Motorsport driver made the podium in every single race throughout the season.

It was a remarkable step up for the Brit, who admittedly struggled in her first campaign in F1 Academy in 2023, where she went winless to finish fifth in the championship.

“The first year was super hard. The transition from last year to this year, I did a really big deliberate step in my mental attitude and it’s really made the difference this year,” Pulling told Arab News after securing the F1 Academy title.

“I wanted to step up this year and show that I am capable of what I’m capable of and that I can go on to do great things.

“I think this year I’ve done everything I could, at every point I’ve maximized — there was only one race, Zandvoort, where I finished P3. We were fast there but I made a mistake.

“It’s nice and satisfying to be able to come away from a season, knowing that I’ve done almost everything I could. That’s very special.”

What makes Pulling’s year even more special is the fact she was running a dual program, racing in the British F4 Championship alongside the F1 Academy.

In May, she won a race at Brands Hatch — the second stop of the championship — to become the first woman in history to claim a victory in British F4.

Despite missing six races, Pulling finished the 2024 British F4 Championship in seventh place with one win and three podiums.

Her triumph in the F1 Academy comes with a fully funded seat for the GB3 Championship with Rodin Motorsport in 2025. This is a huge relief for Pulling who knows how difficult it can be to secure the finances needed to continue climbing up the motorsport ladder.

After making a promising single-seaters debut in British F4 in 2020 — finishing sixth overall, with four podiums — Pulling had to withdraw from the 2021 championship due to a lack of funding and her future in the sport was unclear.

The W Series — a predecessor to the F1 Academy — came to the rescue as Pulling got a chance to fill in as a reserve driver for the Puma W Series Team. She competed in just four races in 2021 yet finished seventh in the W Series championship with one podium and one pole.

Pulling had a full seat in the W Series in 2022, which she finished in fourth with Racing X. The series unfortunately went into administration and was liquidated. But then came another women-only series to the rescue — The Formula One-backed F1 Academy.

At the start of 2023, Pulling became a full-time member of the Alpine Academy program and made her F1 Academy debut with Rodin Motorsport — a team that one year later would help her make a historic return to British F4 and become the championship’s first female race winner.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by F1 Academy (@f1academy)

 

“For me, the financial side of things is so important,” said Pulling, excited about her next chapter in GB3. “I had to pull out of a championship in 2021, it was a really tough time.

“But I was so lucky that there was an all-female championship to jump into, that one had everything paid for, and then F1 Academy came along and continued that dream. And for that I’m so grateful, because I wouldn’t be here today without them two organizations taking me on.

“I think you have to put things in perspective. If I was a guy, that would have been the end of the road for me; so I’m trying to make the most out of everything given to me.

“I’m so aware how lucky I am to be in this situation and I just want for the people that either can’t make that first step into karting, or can’t make the jump up into cars, or for whatever reason have to stop, or can’t get in in the first place, I want to do my best for all of them.”

Pulling feels prepared to take that next step up the ladder to GB3, and says she is “living proof” that the F1 Academy can help women transition into higher racing categories in mixed series.

“Obviously paired with a dual program as well,” she added.

“F1 Academy opened me up to the relationship with Rodin Motorsport, which then got me a relationship with Rodin Cars. And then in 2024 I’ve been doing a dual campaign British F4 with Rodin Cars and Rodin Motorsport, and obviously F1 Academy with Alpine Academy and Rodin Motorsport.

“So that alone has opened that door to do a dual campaign, get more seat time. I’m living proof that it’s working.

“Going around to tracks like this, Yas Marina, I wouldn’t have been here without the championship. It’s a very fun track to end the season on.

“They’ve given us plenty of seat time this year, lots of experience managing tires in hot conditions, changeable conditions as well. It’s been a really fun season.”

 

 

Pulling paid tribute to Alpine and believes the Enstone outfit have helped her become a “more well-rounded driver,” placing special emphasis on her physical preparation off the track.

Like any racing driver, Pulling’s dream is to one day land a seat in F1, but even if she does not, she is certain another woman will in the near future.

“There’s not been a wave like this ever (for women in motorsport). I’m going to ride it as long as I can,” she said.

“It’s just such a positive time to be a female in motorsport. It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when. I don’t know when it will be, but I’m certain that we’ll have a female driving in a Formula 1 car soon.

“And if it’s not me, I hope it’s the girls that I’ve been racing against or a young girl that’s been watching that is inspired by what we’ve been doing.”

Pulling’s motorsport dream was sparked when she was just 3 years old, watching her father, Andy, compete on motorbikes. At age 8, she opted for four wheels instead of two like her father, and by 14 was crowned national junior karting champion back home in the UK.

The rest, as they say, is history, and Pulling has now become the most promising female prospect in the world of motorsport.

Is it what she hoped it would be?

“It’s not always as glitzy or as glamorous as people think, but I’m living the dream,” she said.