Embattled Republican leader George Santos has found himself mired in yet another controversy. A former aide has accused the New York congressman of sexual harassment by writing a letter to the House Ethics Committee.

Embattled Republican leader George Santos has found himself mired in yet another controversy. A former aide has accused the New York congressman of sexual harassment by writing a letter to the House Ethics Committee. The alleged victim had joined the Republican leader's office last month as a volunteer. He stated that the incident transpired on January 25, two days after he was hired and when he was alone with Santos in his personal office. The Congressman had earlier asked the aide if he had a 'Grindr' profile, which is a widely known LGBTQ+ social networking app. When helping Santos with his mail in the office, the New York Rep-elect called him a 'buddy' and insisted that he sit next to him on a small sofa. "The Congressman stopped me by placing his hand on my left leg, near my knee and saying, "Hey buddy, we're going to karaoke tonight. Would you like to go?" wrote the aide in the letter. "I kindly declined the invitation by telling the Congressman I was not a fan of clubs and bars and that I was not a good singer. The Congressman proceeded to take his hand and move it down my leg into my inner-thigh and proceeded to touch my groin." These matters will not be litigated on social media or through news media. They are serious offenses and the evidence and facts will speak for themselves if the committee takes up the matter. This tweet is being made public in light of transparency. pic.twitter.com/oSs4F3xyqc — Derek Myers (@DerekMyers) February 3, 2023 × WATCH | Embattled George Santos refuses to resign amid calls for him to step down × Santos tried to persuade the victim by stating that his husband was out of town. However, the aide changed the topic and shortly after, left the office. Five days later, he was called to Santos' office again and asked about his background as a journalist in Ohio. The said individual had faced wiretapping charges in the state, which were earlier disclosed to the hiring managers. However, a day later, according to the victim, he was fired saying the 'job offer was being rescinded'. Santos or his lawyers have not commented on the sexual harassment issue but stated that the aide was fired because of his Ohio charges. Read more: George Santos in hot soup for saying 9/11 attacks ‘claimed my mother’s life’ This is not the first instance where Santos has found himself in a spot of bother. He is already facing local, state, federal and international investigations over professional and personal behaviour. Recently. Santos came under fire for using a fudged resume, which he acknowledged was fabricated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Embattled Republican leader George Santos accused of sexual harassment by a former aide

In an attempt to get Twitter out of the trenches, Elon Musk is looking to impose hefty verification fees on businesses. According to multiple reports, business Twitter handles will have to fork out as much as $1,000 per month in fees to Twitter or risk losing the gold badge that granted them exclusivity on the platform.

In an attempt to get Twitter out of the trenches, Elon Musk is looking to impose hefty verification fees on businesses. According to multiple reports, business Twitter handles will have to fork out as much as $1,000 per month in fees to Twitter or risk losing the gold badge that granted them exclusivity on the platform. Though the details and the release date of the feature are yet to be finalised, the emails sent by Twitter employees to some netizens suggest that the proposal is in its final stages. Social media consultant Matt Navarra shared screenshots of the new proposal which is being called 'Verified for Organisation'. “As an early access subscriber, you’ll get a gold checkmark for your organization and affiliation badges for its associates,” read the screengrab of an email shared by Navarra. “If you’d like to subscribe, Verified for Organizations is $1,000 per month, and $50 per additional affiliated handle per month with one month of free affiliations.” Twitter is reportedly emailing businesses offering gold check mark verification for $1000 PER MONTH! And affiliate account verification for $50 each per month pic.twitter.com/hohTPKLKdi — Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) February 3, 2023 × After Musk took over Twitter in October last year following a lengthy back-and-forth, he has on multiple occasions said that the micro-blogging platform does not generate enough revenue to sustain itself in the long run. Read more: Elon Musk found not guilty in 2018 Tesla ‘funding secured’ tweet case Keeping survival in mind, Musk first introduced the $8 checkmark feature. However, malicious actors used the feature to impersonate individuals and businesses, causing millions in losses. Consequently, Twitter stopped the feature, pending better regulations. After fixing the problem, Twitter, in December last year, announced its verification process for organisations and affiliates. The gold badges were rolled out for businesses to verify and distinguish themselves on the platform. WATCH | Elon Musk Acquitted In Tesla Fraud Case × The $1000 verification fee comes in the backdrop of Musk announcing a more expensive ad-free subscription plan last month. "Ads are too frequent on Twitter and too big. Taking steps to address both in coming weeks," Musk tweeted, without elaborating how the new subscription model will be priced. “There will be a higher priced subscription that allows zero ads" for those who wish for the service. Read more: Elon Musk plans to roll out expensive Twitter subscription for ad-free experience Nearly 90 per cent of Twitter’s revenue comes from selling digital ads and Musk recently attributed a "massive drop in revenue" to rights organisations that have pressured brands to pause their Twitter ads. The subscription model is expected to offset some of the losses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk may charge $1000 from businesses to retain Twitter gold badge: Reports

Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has issued a warning to Imran Khan, saying the former prime minister will be arrested if he dared to launch any anti-government protest.

Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has issued a warning to Imran Khan, saying the former prime minister will be arrested if he dared to launch any anti-government protest. "Government ‘prepared to arrest PTI chief’ if fresh protest launched," the minister was quoted as saying by Dawn. Further criticising Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), Sanaullah said it had been creating trouble since 2014. “In 2014, PTI staged protest demonstrations and tried to stop the journey of progress and prosperity. Imran Khan is following the politics of agitation in the shape of long marches, sealing Islamabad on the pretext of a date for elections." WATCH | WION Fineprint: Imran Khan calls for mass arrest movement, says 'get ready for Jail Bharo movement' × The warning comes a day after Khan appealed to his supporters to be prepared for the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ (mass arrest movement). “I ask the people to get ready and wait for my call for ‘jail bharo tehreek’. There will not be that much space in Pakistani jails to have them all,” said Khan. “Wait for my call…when I will give you the signal to fill jails. I know the jails will choke as they don’t have that much capacity." Khan announced the new movement after sedition cases were filed against his close aides viz. PTI senior vice president Fawad Chaudhary and former member of the National Assembly Shandana Gulzar. Read more: Pakistan: Imran Khan calls for ‘Jail Bharo’ movement against Shehbaz Sharif government Notably, Chaudhry was arrested last week from his Lahore residence in a pre-dawn raid after the Secretary of the Election Commission of Pakistan complained against him for “threatening” the members of the electoral body and their families. Meanwhile, Gulzar was booked for “inciting violence against constitutional institutions of the country”. After Khan's long march was suspended last year following an assassination attempt, he had been relatively quiet on the protest front. Thus, experts believe that ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ is an attempt by Khan to ratchet up the pressure on the government which is already under extreme duress, trying to balance a failing economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'He will be arrested...': Pakistan's interior minister issues warning to PTI chief Imran Khan

Adani Group is in talks to prepay all loans backed by pledged shares, a spokesperson told Reuters on Monday while denying media reports that said the conglomerate was planning to cut back its capital spending.

Adani Group plans to trim its capital spending while providing more collateral in the form of stock pledges to lenders, Indian newspaper Mint said, citing people close to the development.

"False report, on the contrary Adani Group is moving to prepay all LAS (Loans Against Shares) finance," a spokesperson for the group said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-hindenburg-shock-adani-group-to-curb-capital-spending-plans-559168">Read more:&nbsp;After Hindenburg shock, Adani Group to curb capital spending plans: Report</a>

Additionally, Adani Group's domestic lenders do not plan to cut off the conglomerate from utilising sanctioned but unused credit lines for fears it could backfire and lead to defaults, Mint said in a separate report, citing bankers.

Shares of Adani Group companies have lost more than half their market value, topping a cumulative $100 billion, after US short-seller Hindenburg Research last month raised questions about the group's debt levels and use of tax havens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-earnings-of-adani-group-firms-under-scanner-firms-to-report-earnings-this-week-wion-558971">WATCH |&nbsp;India: Earnings of Adani group firms under scanner; firms to report earnings this week | WION</a>

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In the brutal fallout of Hindenburg's report, investors dumped Adani shares, while the group's flagship company, Adani Enterprises, was forced to abandon a $2.5 billion share sale last week.

Meanwhile, Group Chairman Gautam Adani lost his title as Asia's richest person and slipped down the global rankings of the wealthy.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Adani Group is in talks to prepay all loans backed by pledged shares, a spokesperson told Reuters on Monday while denying media reports that said the conglomerate was planning to cut back its capital spending.

Adani Group is in talks to prepay all loans backed by pledged shares, a spokesperson told Reuters on Monday while denying media reports that said the conglomerate was planning to cut back its capital spending. Adani Group plans to trim its capital spending while providing more collateral in the form of stock pledges to lenders, Indian newspaper Mint said, citing people close to the development. "False report, on the contrary Adani Group is moving to prepay all LAS (Loans Against Shares) finance," a spokesperson for the group said in an emailed statement to Reuters. Read more: After Hindenburg shock, Adani Group to curb capital spending plans: Report Additionally, Adani Group's domestic lenders do not plan to cut off the conglomerate from utilising sanctioned but unused credit lines for fears it could backfire and lead to defaults, Mint said in a separate report, citing bankers. Shares of Adani Group companies have lost more than half their market value, topping a cumulative $100 billion, after US short-seller Hindenburg Research last month raised questions about the group's debt levels and use of tax havens. WATCH | India: Earnings of Adani group firms under scanner; firms to report earnings this week | WION In the brutal fallout of Hindenburg's report, investors dumped Adani shares, while the group's flagship company, Adani Enterprises, was forced to abandon a $2.5 billion share sale last week. Meanwhile, Group Chairman Gautam Adani lost his title as Asia's richest person and slipped down the global rankings of the wealthy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Adani Group will pay off debt for pledged shares, denies report on capex cut

Days after announcing its revenue had fallen for the first time in the quarter gone by, Apple slashed the prices of its iPhone 14 models by up to $125 in China. Apple has taken the call to cut prices to drive the demand and resuscitate one of its most profitable markets.

Days after announcing its revenue had fallen for the first time in the quarter gone by, Apple slashed the prices of its iPhone 14 models by up to $125 in China. Apple has taken the call to cut prices to drive the demand and resuscitate one of its most profitable markets. Business houses have reported a seven per cent drop in sales of Apple products in China due to the harsh COVID-19 regulations. Moreover, China's domestic smartphone sales plummeted below 300 million for the first time in a decade. The sales figure stood at 285.8 million at the end of 2022, which was a drop of 13.2 per cent compared to 2021. WATCH | US: Senator Michael Bennet writes letter to Alphabet and Apple heads × According to a South China Morning Post (SCMP) report, online sellers on JD.com - China's second largest e-commerce platform have shown a markdown of $117 (800 yuan) for the top-tier iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max models. An additional $7 (50 yuan) is being slashed if the buyer becomes a member of the online store. As soon as the discounted iPhones went on sale, they were sold out in the Shenzhen outlets of Apple and its resellers. Read more: First generation iPhone likely to be auctioned off for a whopping $50,000 Last week, Apple released its balance sheets where it reported $117 billion in revenue for the quarter ending December which was a five per cent drop from a year earlier. Meanwhile, the profits tumbled to $30 billion, down 13.4 per cent. Apple CEO Tim Cook reflected on the drop in revenue and attributed it to the challenging environment posed by the pandemic. “Covid-19 challenges significantly impacted the supply of iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max and lasted through most of December,” said Cook. Read more: Is Apple going back on its word? Touchscreen for Macs as early as 2025 Taiwanese giant Foxconn, which runs the biggest iPhone factory in Zhengzhou had to endure a harrowing period in October last year when tens of thousands of workers left the factory following draconian COVID-19 policies of the administration. The mass exodus halted the production supply and to this date, Apple has been attempting to bring the factory on par with the pre-exodus numbers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Apple slashes iPhone prices in China to drive demand after dip in quarterly revenue

In what comes as another hate attack, 14 Hindu temples were vandalised in Bangladesh, in the early hours of Sunday.&nbsp;The incident has caused panic among the minority Hindu community. In other news, a major 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Turkey and parts of Syria,&nbsp;Lebanon and Cyprus. The death toll has been rapidly climbing.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/14-hindu-temples-vandalised-in-bangladesh-559042">14 Hindu temples vandalised in Bangladesh</a>

14 Hindu temples were vandalised in northeastern Bangladesh in what police believe was a series of orchestrated attacks by unidentified vandals.&nbsp;The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday in Dhantala, Paria and Charul regions.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/06/330320-police.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/78-magnitude-earthquake-jolts-southern-turkey-killing-at-least-15-559050">7.8-magnitude earthquake jolts southern Turkey, killing at le</a>ast 360

The US Geological Service on Monday stated that southeastern Turkey, near Gaziantep, was shaken by a massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake, as the local officials&nbsp;confirmed that at least 360 people&nbsp;were killed in the disaster.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/06/330322-untitled-design-2023-02-06t084928074.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nhs-stages-biggest-ever-industrial-strike-calls-on-sunak-to-intervene-559070">NHS stages biggest-ever industrial strike, calls on Sunak to intervene</a>

In what is being dubbed the biggest strike in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), thousands of workers, including nurses and GMB union workers in England and Wales are taking industrial action today.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/11/286832-new-wion-1.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trial-begins-for-47-pro-democracy-voices-in-hong-kong-charged-under-draconian-national-security-law-559034">Trial begins for 47 pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong charged under draconian national security law</a>

A trial has begun under Hong Kong's draconian national security law with 47 prominent pro-democracy figures taking the stand, a little more than two years after being rounded up in the custody by the authorities.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/14/318219-00032cc6aj.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-government-protests-continue-in-israel-decrying-judicial-reforms-559049">WATCH |&nbsp;Anti-government protests continue in Israel decrying judicial reforms</a>

Tens of thousands of Israelis braved heavy rain on Saturday for a fifth week of protests against judicial reform plans by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's new government that critics say threaten democratic checks on ministers by the courts.

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In what comes as another hate attack, 14 Hindu temples were vandalised in Bangladesh, in the early hours of Sunday. The incident has caused panic among the minority Hindu community.

In what comes as another hate attack, 14 Hindu temples were vandalised in Bangladesh, in the early hours of Sunday. The incident has caused panic among the minority Hindu community. In other news, a major 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Turkey and parts of Syria, Lebanon and Cyprus. The death toll has been rapidly climbing. Click on the headlines to read more: 14 Hindu temples vandalised in Bangladesh 14 Hindu temples were vandalised in northeastern Bangladesh in what police believe was a series of orchestrated attacks by unidentified vandals. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday in Dhantala, Paria and Charul regions. 7.8-magnitude earthquake jolts southern Turkey, killing at least 360 The US Geological Service on Monday stated that southeastern Turkey, near Gaziantep, was shaken by a massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake, as the local officials confirmed that at least 360 people were killed in the disaster. NHS stages biggest-ever industrial strike, calls on Sunak to intervene In what is being dubbed the biggest strike in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), thousands of workers, including nurses and GMB union workers in England and Wales are taking industrial action today. Trial begins for 47 pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong charged under draconian national security law A trial has begun under Hong Kong's draconian national security law with 47 prominent pro-democracy figures taking the stand, a little more than two years after being rounded up in the custody by the authorities. WATCH | Anti-government protests continue in Israel decrying judicial reforms Tens of thousands of Israelis braved heavy rain on Saturday for a fifth week of protests against judicial reform plans by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's new government that critics say threaten democratic checks on ministers by the courts. ×

Morning news brief: 14 Hindu temples vandalised in Bangladesh, Turkey quake toll climbs up and more

Liverpool manager Jürgen&nbsp;Klopp is surprised as everyone regarding the business Chelsea managed to pull off in the just concluded winter transfer window. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's Premier League encounter with Wolves, Klopp, however, joked about the situation.&nbsp;

"I'm saying nothing without my lawyer!" said Klopp, before adding, "I don't understand that part of the business, what you can do, what you can't you do. it's a big number in the last two windows. The players they brought in, I didn't think once 'why did they do that?'"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-breaks-all-records-with-humongous-spending-in-the-winter-transfer-window-557980">Read more:&nbsp;Premier League breaks all records with humongous spending in the winter transfer window</a>

The German appreciated the class of players the London club had signed but refrained from commenting about the finances involved.&nbsp;

"They are all really good players, so from that point of view, congratulations if you can do it. I don't understand how it's possible, but it's not for me to explain how it works. Hopefully you all know exactly how it works, and then it's fine!"

While both Chelsea and Liverpool are struggling at the moment, the former managed to have a transfer window for the ages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-signs-benfica-midfielder-enzo-fernandez-from-benfica-for-british-world-record-fee-of-ps1068-million-557765">Read more:&nbsp;&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-signs-benfica-midfielder-enzo-fernandez-from-benfica-for-british-world-record-fee-of-ps1068-million-557765">Chelsea signs Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for British world record fee of £106.8 million</a>

Now owned by American businessman Todd Boehly, Chelsea spent a whopping $350 million in the window, taking the club's total spending for the season to $600 million.&nbsp;

Chelsea managed to secure the services of Mykhailo Mudryk,&nbsp;Enzo Fernandez, Benoit Badiashile, Noni Madueke,&nbsp;Malo Gusto,&nbsp;David Datro Fofana, Andrey Santos on permanent deals while Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix was brought to Stamford Bridge on a loan deal.&nbsp;

Comparatively, Klopp's Liverpool only managed to sign Dutch forward Cody Gakpo, despite the midfield currently running thin on options.

The Merseyside club could not sign a midfielder, despite the fanbase and pundits claiming that the club needed a fresh player to secure a top-4 finish.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp; 
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Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is surprised as everyone regarding the business Chelsea managed to pull off in the just concluded winter transfer window. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's Premier League encounter with Wolves, Klopp, however, joked about the situation.

Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is surprised as everyone regarding the business Chelsea managed to pull off in the just concluded winter transfer window. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's Premier League encounter with Wolves, Klopp, however, joked about the situation. "I'm saying nothing without my lawyer!" said Klopp, before adding, "I don't understand that part of the business, what you can do, what you can't you do. it's a big number in the last two windows. The players they brought in, I didn't think once 'why did they do that?'" Read more: Premier League breaks all records with humongous spending in the winter transfer window The German appreciated the class of players the London club had signed but refrained from commenting about the finances involved. "They are all really good players, so from that point of view, congratulations if you can do it. I don't understand how it's possible, but it's not for me to explain how it works. Hopefully you all know exactly how it works, and then it's fine!" While both Chelsea and Liverpool are struggling at the moment, the former managed to have a transfer window for the ages. Read more: Chelsea signs Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for British world record fee of £106.8 million Now owned by American businessman Todd Boehly, Chelsea spent a whopping $350 million in the window, taking the club's total spending for the season to $600 million. Chelsea managed to secure the services of Mykhailo Mudryk, Enzo Fernandez, Benoit Badiashile, Noni Madueke, Malo Gusto, David Datro Fofana, Andrey Santos on permanent deals while Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix was brought to Stamford Bridge on a loan deal. Comparatively, Klopp's Liverpool only managed to sign Dutch forward Cody Gakpo, despite the midfield currently running thin on options. The Merseyside club could not sign a midfielder, despite the fanbase and pundits claiming that the club needed a fresh player to secure a top-4 finish. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I'll say nothing without my lawyer': Jürgen Klopp on Chelsea's INSANE winter spending

American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday.

Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards."

The company said they would provide the power units for both the Red Bull team and the Alpha Tauri team from 2026 until at least 2030.

"This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather (Henry Ford) won a race that helped launch our company,” said Bill Ford, executive chair.

Ford last featured in F1 in 2004 when they were partnered with Jordan and their return is a further sign of the growth of the sport in the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-niki-lauda-to-jules-bianchi-horrific-crashes-in-the-history-of-formula-1-466040">Read more:&nbsp;From Niki Lauda to Jules Bianchi: Horrific crashes in the history of Formula 1</a>

Ford have played a part in 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships – making them the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with their most recent success coming via Michael Schumacher's win with Benetton in 1994.

Red Bull unveiled their new car for the upcoming season at an event in New York on Friday and team principal Christian Horner said he was looking forward to the link-up.

"It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership,” he said.

"They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself. For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting," he said.

The companies will begin collaborating this year ahead of the change of regulations for engines in F1 and the news was welcomed by Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali.

"The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula One," said Domenicali.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-extends-formula-1-deal-saudi-arabia-to-kickoff-2024-season-543369">Read more:&nbsp;Australia extends Formula 1 deal, Saudi Arabia to kickoff 2024 season</a>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday. Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards.

American car manufacturer Ford will return to Formula One in 2026 with a link-up with world champions Red Bull, the company said on Friday. Ford said they were entering a "long term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards." The company said they would provide the power units for both the Red Bull team and the Alpha Tauri team from 2026 until at least 2030. "This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather (Henry Ford) won a race that helped launch our company,” said Bill Ford, executive chair. Ford last featured in F1 in 2004 when they were partnered with Jordan and their return is a further sign of the growth of the sport in the United States. Read more: From Niki Lauda to Jules Bianchi: Horrific crashes in the history of Formula 1 Ford have played a part in 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships – making them the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with their most recent success coming via Michael Schumacher's win with Benetton in 1994. Red Bull unveiled their new car for the upcoming season at an event in New York on Friday and team principal Christian Horner said he was looking forward to the link-up. "It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership,” he said. "They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself. For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting," he said. The companies will begin collaborating this year ahead of the change of regulations for engines in F1 and the news was welcomed by Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali. "The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula One," said Domenicali. Read more: Australia extends Formula 1 deal, Saudi Arabia to kickoff 2024 season WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ford officially returns to F1 in a new partnership with Red Bull

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag toed a safe line, a day after rape and assault charges were dropped against academy graduate Mason Greenwood. The Dutch manager refused to comment on the issue and directed reporters toward the club's statement.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag toed a safe line, a day after rape and assault charges were dropped against academy graduate Mason Greenwood. The Dutch manager refused to comment on the issue and directed reporters toward the club's statement. "I can't add anything. I refer to the statement of the club," said the Dutch manager, in his first season at Old Trafford. "In this moment, I can't give comment about the process. I can't say anything about it, I refer to the statement of the club and at this moment I can't add anything." United released a statement after the news and took a circumspect view of things. "Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped. The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete." Greenwood being freed of the charges does not mean that the assault or rape did not take place. The Crown Prosecution informed on Thursday that the key witnesses had withdrawn from the case which made the prosecution difficult. "Given the significant media coverage of this case, it is only fair that we share the news that the 21-year-old man, who had been arrested and charged in connection with an investigation opened in January 2022, no longer faces criminal proceedings in relation to this," said Michaela Kerr, Greater Manchester Police's head of Public Protection. Read more: Manchester United player Mason Greenwood has rape, assault charges dropped against him Why was Greenwood arrested? The footballer was arrested in January last year after being accused of rape and assault by his ex-girlfriend. She had taken to social media to release horrific pictures of bruises on her body and blood dripping out of her nose, caused allegedly by Greenwood. In an audio leaked by the ex-girlfriend, Greenwood could be allegedly heard threatening to kill her for refusing sex. Read more: Mason Greenwood's girlfriend accuses Man Utd star of physical violence and sexual assault, shares pictures (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Erik ten Hag reacts for the first time after Greenwood's rape charges are dropped

Benfica president Rui Costa was not impressed by how Enzo Fernandez handled his record move to Chelsea in the just concluded winter transfer window. Costa said he wasn't going to cry for players who did not want to wear the Benfica jersey.

Benfica president Rui Costa was not impressed by how Enzo Fernandez handled his record move to Chelsea in the just concluded winter transfer window. Costa said he wasn't going to cry for players who did not want to wear the Benfica jersey. "Enzo Fernandez did not want to stay at Benfica. He didn’t give us any chance. I did my best, I’m sad, but I’m not going to cry for a player who didn’t want to stay," Costa told the reporters. "I proposed to Chelsea that he stay until the summer for a lower value, but the player did not want to continue at Benfica – and this is when everything changed. At that point I said, 'He can’t play for Benfica anymore, no way!' I don’t cry for players who don’t want to wear our shirt." Chelsea signed World Cup winner Fernandez for a club-record fee of $131 million, which also broke the Premier League record for the biggest transfers, set by Manchester City's Jack Grealish in 2021. A dream come true! 💙 Let's go, @ChelseaFC pic.twitter.com/XoiQkKHdKG — Enzo Fernández (@Enzo13Fernandez) February 1, 2023 × However, prior to the final deal, Chelsea and Benfica had to engage in a lot of back-and-forth as the drama surrounding Fernandez's eventual move grabbed the headlines throughout the window. Previously, Fernandez had skipped team training after agreeing on personal terms with the London club. However, Chelsea refused to meet the release clause of Fernandez and the deal was stalled as Benfica retaliated. Afterwards, Fernandez resumed team training and even scored upon his return to the match-day squad. Chelsea, however, did not give up on him and made the move on the final day and managed to complete the deal. Notably, Benfica had signed Fernandez, only a year ago from the South American club River Plate for a sum of $15 million. Read more: Chelsea signs Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for British world record fee of £106.8 million Enzo's market value was inflated after his heroic performance in Argentina’s World Cup-winning campaign in Qatar. He earned the Best Young Player of the Tournament award and emerged as one of the most elite midfielders in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I didn't want him...' Benfica president on Enzo Fernandez after transfer drama

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has responded to Steve Smith's remarks about not playing any tour games ahead of the first Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy.

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has responded to Steve Smith's remarks about not playing any tour games ahead of the first Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. The off-spinner said it was not a big thing and that Smith was playing mind games. “Australia are not playing any tour matches this time. This is not new. Even India avoids tour games when they go on a few overseas tours," said Ashwin on his YouTube channel. "Since Team India’s schedule is packed with international games, it is not possible to turn up for practice games with the same intensity." #TeamIndia have begun their preparations for the Border Gavaskar Trophy ahead of the 1st Test in Nagpur.#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/21NlHzLwGA — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2023 × Australia are not playing any tour game in their preparation for the series. Instead, the visitors have preferred to hold a four-day training camp at KSCA Stadium in Alur. Smith had said, “We got a green wicket in Brabourne and a completely opposite one in the first Test (during the 2017 series). In all fairness, it was a rank turner in Pune.” “We might have given them a green track, but nobody plans all these things. However, Australia are known for their mind games and sledges before a series. They love doing that. It’s their style of cricket,” added Ashiwn. Read more: 'Last time they gave us a green top', Steve Smith explains why Australia is not playing a tour game this time When asked if Australia needed to play a tour match ahead of the gruelling one-month Test series, Smith had replied in negative. "We'll wait and see when we hit the ground. I think we've made the right decision to not play a tour match. Like I said, last time they dished up a green top for us (in a tour game) and we barely faced any spin, so it's kind of irrelevant," Smith told news.com.au. Australia will be coming into the series, having lost the previous three iterations of the BGT, with 2018 and 2020 defeats coming in its own backyard. It will take some special effort from the Australians if they are to beat India in India. In the last decade, India have only lost two Test matches. Ironically, Australia beat India in one of those Test matches and it came on a vicious turning Pune pitch. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Oz are known for their mind games': R Ashwin responds to Steve Smith's tour match remark

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has once again made a strange claim, insinuating that India copied Pakistan's bowling attack.&nbsp;“I often feel India took a look at Pakistan and designed their bowling attack the same way," said the ex-cricketer on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

"Umran Malik has pace just like Haris Rauf, Arshdeep brings the left-arm angle like Shaheen Afridi. Wasim Jr. chips in during the middle-overs and so does Hardik Pandya, both have the same pace as well. Shivam Mavi also plays the role of a supporting bowler,” added Raja.&nbsp;

While Raja made the rather anecdotal statement, India has produced a flurry of good fast bowlers over the years.&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are a few of the others that have been around much longer than some of the Pakistani bowlers.&nbsp;

This is not the first instance when Raja has courted controversy for making statements targeting the Indian team. As the PCB chairman, he had threatened to boycott the 2023 50-over World Cup if India did not come to Pakistan to play in the Asia Cup.&nbsp;

“If Pakistan doesn't take part in the World Cup scheduled in India next year, who will watch it? We have a clear stand: If the Indian team comes here then we will go for the World Cup. If they don't come then they can play the World Cup without us," Raja had said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-got-ramiz-raja-opens-up-on-continuous-rant-against-india-during-his-tenure-as-pcb-chief-547019">Read more:&nbsp;"I have got...' - Ramiz Raja opens up on continuous rant against India during his tenure as PCB chief</a>

Such a statement from Raja, despite him being the head of a cricketing board did not go down well with BCCI as well as former Pakistani players.&nbsp;

Wasim Akram slammed Raja for his statements by referring to him as a kid.&nbsp;

"He came for six days, now he is back to his original place," said Akram.&nbsp;

"Najam Sethi [PCB chairman] gave a very sensible answer. It all depends on approval from both governments. You have to talk properly with boards. This is not gully cricket, that if you don’t come, we also will not go to your country. I don’t understand who are these kids, who come and run cricket in Pakistan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-understand-who-are-these-kids-wasim-akram-takes-a-dig-at-ramiz-raja-555578">Read more:&nbsp;'Don’t understand who are these kids': Wasim Akram takes a dig at Ramiz Raja</a>

Notably, shortly after Pakistan were whitewashed in their three-match home Test series versus England, Raja was given the sack as the PCB chairman.

Under his tenure, the team performed horridly in the home conditions and the pitches were criticised heavily for offering nothing to the bowlers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has once again made a strange claim, insinuating that India copied Pakistan's bowling attack. “I often feel India took a look at Pakistan and designed their bowling attack the same way," said the ex-cricketer on his YouTube channel.

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has once again made a strange claim, insinuating that India copied Pakistan's bowling attack. “I often feel India took a look at Pakistan and designed their bowling attack the same way," said the ex-cricketer on his YouTube channel. "Umran Malik has pace just like Haris Rauf, Arshdeep brings the left-arm angle like Shaheen Afridi. Wasim Jr. chips in during the middle-overs and so does Hardik Pandya, both have the same pace as well. Shivam Mavi also plays the role of a supporting bowler,” added Raja. While Raja made the rather anecdotal statement, India has produced a flurry of good fast bowlers over the years. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are a few of the others that have been around much longer than some of the Pakistani bowlers. This is not the first instance when Raja has courted controversy for making statements targeting the Indian team. As the PCB chairman, he had threatened to boycott the 2023 50-over World Cup if India did not come to Pakistan to play in the Asia Cup. “If Pakistan doesn't take part in the World Cup scheduled in India next year, who will watch it? We have a clear stand: If the Indian team comes here then we will go for the World Cup. If they don't come then they can play the World Cup without us," Raja had said. Read more: "I have got...' - Ramiz Raja opens up on continuous rant against India during his tenure as PCB chief Such a statement from Raja, despite him being the head of a cricketing board did not go down well with BCCI as well as former Pakistani players. Wasim Akram slammed Raja for his statements by referring to him as a kid. "He came for six days, now he is back to his original place," said Akram. "Najam Sethi [PCB chairman] gave a very sensible answer. It all depends on approval from both governments. You have to talk properly with boards. This is not gully cricket, that if you don’t come, we also will not go to your country. I don’t understand who are these kids, who come and run cricket in Pakistan." Read more: 'Don’t understand who are these kids': Wasim Akram takes a dig at Ramiz Raja Notably, shortly after Pakistan were whitewashed in their three-match home Test series versus England, Raja was given the sack as the PCB chairman. Under his tenure, the team performed horridly in the home conditions and the pitches were criticised heavily for offering nothing to the bowlers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja claims India 'copied' Pakistan's bowling template

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