18-year-old Gukesh becomes the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. Gukesh defeated defending champion Ding Liren in a dramatic 14-game match. Watch here to learn more about his legacy!

Gukesh, Youngest-Ever World Chess Champion Gets Emotional

Gukesh Makes History As The Youngest Chess World Champion: A Glimpse Into His Legacy

Formula 1 legend Sebastian Vettel has admitted that he 'flirted' with the idea of making a comeback to the grid but stopped short of going forward with the idea due to commitments to his family.&nbsp;

Fans have been hoping that the four-time champion returns to F1 once again. He is still only 36 and younger than both Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso who are going strong on the circuit.

"Of course, you think about it and flirt with it. Sometimes it's the case that [one of my children] says, 'Dad, don't do that, then you'll be gone so much'," Vettel told German broadcaster RTL.&nbsp;

"I really enjoyed the last year-and-a-half and also really enjoyed the time with the children, hopefully, the children did too. Maybe the mood will change again, but things are still going very well at the moment," added Vettel.

The German said the addition of two more races to the already packed racing calendar had made his decision to return difficult.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There are also 24 races and beyond that, I know from my time how I would like to structure my job if I decided to do it. I don't think it's objectionable that there are other interests in my life. Not just people and relationships, but also other things that interest and motivate me."

<h2>Vettel's conversation with Wolff</h2>

Notably, this is not the first instance when Vettel has 'flirted' with the idea of a comeback. He had expressed surprise about Hamilton's move to Ferrari, whilst adding that he was indeed in conversation with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolf.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was surprised by this change. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel.&nbsp;

"But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-return-for-vettel-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-and-vettel-exchange-texts-amid-hamiltons-replacement-search-696151">Also read |&nbsp;Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search</a>

Vettel retired from F1 at the end of the 2022 season with 53 victories to his name. After winning four championships with Red Bull, Vettel moved to Ferrari where a six-year stint failed to yield a much-coveted fifth title. He completed his final two years on the grid with Aston Martin.&nbsp;

Vettel's return talks to F1 has gained pace after 39-year-old Hamilton&nbsp;activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian company after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Formula 1 legend Sebastian Vettel has admitted that he 'flirted' with the idea of making a comeback to the grid but stopped short of going forward with the idea due to commitments to his family.

Formula 1 legend Sebastian Vettel has admitted that he 'flirted' with the idea of making a comeback to the grid but stopped short of going forward with the idea due to commitments to his family. Fans have been hoping that the four-time champion returns to F1 once again. He is still only 36 and younger than both Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso who are going strong on the circuit. "Of course, you think about it and flirt with it. Sometimes it's the case that [one of my children] says, 'Dad, don't do that, then you'll be gone so much'," Vettel told German broadcaster RTL. "I really enjoyed the last year-and-a-half and also really enjoyed the time with the children, hopefully, the children did too. Maybe the mood will change again, but things are still going very well at the moment," added Vettel. The German said the addition of two more races to the already packed racing calendar had made his decision to return difficult. "There are also 24 races and beyond that, I know from my time how I would like to structure my job if I decided to do it. I don't think it's objectionable that there are other interests in my life. Not just people and relationships, but also other things that interest and motivate me." Vettel's conversation with Wolff Notably, this is not the first instance when Vettel has 'flirted' with the idea of a comeback. He had expressed surprise about Hamilton's move to Ferrari, whilst adding that he was indeed in conversation with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolf. “I was surprised by this change. The Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff didn’t call me, but we briefly exchanged text messages," said Vettel. "But so far it’s not an issue for me, also because at 36 I still have all the time in the world. So it’s not going away." Also read | Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Vettel exchange texts amid Hamilton's replacement search Vettel retired from F1 at the end of the 2022 season with 53 victories to his name. After winning four championships with Red Bull, Vettel moved to Ferrari where a six-year stint failed to yield a much-coveted fifth title. He completed his final two years on the grid with Aston Martin. Vettel's return talks to F1 has gained pace after 39-year-old Hamilton activated a break clause to seal his move to the Italian company after admitting the prospect of "driving in Ferrari red" was too hard to turn down. (With inputs from agencies)

Sebastian Vettel pondering F1 return? Four-time world champion provides update

Olympic 1500m champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and his two brothers Henrik and Philip accused their father and former coach Gjert of abusing them on Friday, a charge he denied.&nbsp; "We grew up with a very aggressive and authoritarian father, who used physical violence and threats as part of his upbringing," they wrote in an article published in the Norwegian daily VG.&nbsp;

"We still feel a sense of discomfort and fear that we have felt since childhood," the Norwegian brothers added.&nbsp;The siblings were coached by father Gjert until the Covid-delayed Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021 after which they ended the partnership.&nbsp;

"We had more or less accepted that. We have lived with it, and in adulthood we have moved on. At least we thought so. In retrospect, we realise that it was naive," they said.&nbsp;

"But two years ago, the same aggression and physical punishment happened again. That was the last straw.&nbsp;"From that moment on, we decided to break with our father. It then became impossible for us to continue working with him as a coach."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-boston-celtics-claw-out-impressive-win-against-philadelphia-76ers-despite-jayson-tatums-ejection-665350">Boston Celtics claw out impressive win against Philadelphia 76ers despite Jayson Tatum's ejection</a>

Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, 23, is the most successful and the youngest of the three brothers, with a double world championship title in the 5000m in 2022 and 2023.&nbsp;His brothers Henrik, 32, and Philip, 30, were European champions in the 1500m in 2012 and 2016.

Their father denied the accusations, assuring the newspaper in a message sent by his lawyer that he had "never resorted to violence" against them.

"I am far from perfect as a father and husband, but I am not violent," he added.&nbsp;"This is a tragic situation for my family".&nbsp;

The Norwegian police said they were studying the facts to determine whether there were grounds to open an investigation into the allegations of violence.

After breaking with his sons, Gjert Ingebrigtsen caused a storm in Norwegian athletics by starting to train another runner, Narve Gilja Nordas. He has been denied accreditation by the Norwegian Athletics Association for the World Indoor Championships next March in Glasgow and for the 2024&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in Paris.

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Olympic 1500m champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and his two brothers Henrik and Philip accused their father and former coach Gjert of abusing them on Friday, a charge he denied.

Olympic 1500m champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and his two brothers Henrik and Philip accused their father and former coach Gjert of abusing them on Friday, a charge he denied. "We grew up with a very aggressive and authoritarian father, who used physical violence and threats as part of his upbringing," they wrote in an article published in the Norwegian daily VG. "We still feel a sense of discomfort and fear that we have felt since childhood," the Norwegian brothers added. The siblings were coached by father Gjert until the Covid-delayed Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021 after which they ended the partnership. "We had more or less accepted that. We have lived with it, and in adulthood we have moved on. At least we thought so. In retrospect, we realise that it was naive," they said. "But two years ago, the same aggression and physical punishment happened again. That was the last straw. "From that moment on, we decided to break with our father. It then became impossible for us to continue working with him as a coach." Also Read: Boston Celtics claw out impressive win against Philadelphia 76ers despite Jayson Tatum's ejection Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, 23, is the most successful and the youngest of the three brothers, with a double world championship title in the 5000m in 2022 and 2023. His brothers Henrik, 32, and Philip, 30, were European champions in the 1500m in 2012 and 2016. Their father denied the accusations, assuring the newspaper in a message sent by his lawyer that he had "never resorted to violence" against them. "I am far from perfect as a father and husband, but I am not violent," he added. "This is a tragic situation for my family". The Norwegian police said they were studying the facts to determine whether there were grounds to open an investigation into the allegations of violence. After breaking with his sons, Gjert Ingebrigtsen caused a storm in Norwegian athletics by starting to train another runner, Narve Gilja Nordas. He has been denied accreditation by the Norwegian Athletics Association for the World Indoor Championships next March in Glasgow and for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen accuses father of abuse

Naana&nbsp;Oppon, the newly crowned&nbsp;British&nbsp;tumbling champion at the age of 16, heads to the Trampolining&nbsp;World&nbsp;Championships this week confident of winning a medal and encouraging more "black or girls of colour" to take up the sport. Oppon&nbsp;says she "loves seeing the&nbsp;world&nbsp;upside down" as she jumps and twists down the 25-metre (82-foot) track with only her hands and feet allowed to touch the surface.

"As much as you have to stay focused there is also a sense of freedom and it is great fun," she told AFP in a Zoom interview. "It comes with a lot of skills. It is a very power-based sport and that was what drew me in."

Oppon&nbsp;says she was a "very active girl" and aged four took up tumbling, a trampoline gymnastics discipline that falls under the aegis of the International Gymnastics Federation. Her progress has been so swift that she has been described by coaches as the sport's Usain Bolt and compared to American gymnastics superstar Simone Biles. Not surprisingly she identifies strongly with the American four-time Olympic&nbsp;gold&nbsp;medallist and says she "absolutely" hopes she can be as inspirational as Biles.

"In the gym, people doing tumbling specifically do not look like me, either black or people of colour. The way Biles carries herself has been a big inspiration,"&nbsp;Oppon&nbsp;said. "I think I have already definitely inspired the black community and people of colour to try tumbling out.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-franz-wagners-31-points-help-orlando-magic-beat-washington-wizards-register-eighth-consecutive-win-664528">NBA: Franz Wagner's 31 points help Orlando Magic beat Washington Wizards; register eighth consecutive win</a>

"Anyone can join." Oppon&nbsp;accepts she could inspire even more to take it up if she were to win a medal at the&nbsp;world&nbsp;championships which take place in the English city of Birmingham from Thursday to Sunday. "I do definitely think it's realistic to win a medal in the team or individual," she said. "It would mean a lot to win a medal as it means all the hard work and sacrifices made by me and my family were worthwhile."&nbsp;Cirque du Soleil dream.

<h2>Cirque du Soleil dream</h2>

For&nbsp;Oppon&nbsp;to fulfil her dream, she has had to lead a life far from that of a normal teenager. "I have made quite a few sacrifices, especially my social life and hanging out with friends," she said.

"I have also been a little behind with schoolwork because I have been training in two gyms for the past year and a half. "However, it balances out in the end, I guess."

Her parents, mother Antonia and father Paul, have also sacrificed a lot by, at one point, taking two jobs each to finance expenses that amount to roughly 700 pounds ($850) a month -- as tumbling does not receive the funding from the lottery that Olympic sports do. However, supermarket worker Antonia gave up one of her jobs so she could drive&nbsp;Oppon&nbsp;to one of the gyms that is quite a distance from their home.

Paul still works two jobs and&nbsp;Oppon&nbsp;says her sister is also supportive of her pursuit of her goal. The&nbsp;British&nbsp;title in September therefore made her proud that she had repaid their time and efforts.

"I am very, very proud of myself as it was not really what I expected to do," she said. "I was really just hoping to do my best but I did even better than that and came out on top.

"It was a very nice outcome." As it turns out she was not so far behind in her schoolwork and despite being "very, very nervous" about her GCSE exams she got "very good" results.

Oppon&nbsp;says while she is focused on her sport, the worlds are the pinnacle for her discipline as it is not part of the trampolining category at the Olympics -- she also has an eye on what is to come after school. Further down the line, she envisages "learning sign language" and either being a sports physiotherapist or a sports psychologist -- but before then a year at the circus appeals, but no ordinary one.&nbsp;

"I would like to take a year off after school and join Cirque du Soleil," she said. "It would be a really amazing experience to be part of that."After all tumbling is quite a part of it."

Naana Oppon, the newly crowned British tumbling champion at the age of 16, heads to the Trampolining World Championships this week confident of winning a medal and encouraging more "black or girls of colour" to take up the sport.

Naana Oppon, the newly crowned British tumbling champion at the age of 16, heads to the Trampolining World Championships this week confident of winning a medal and encouraging more "black or girls of colour" to take up the sport. Oppon says she "loves seeing the world upside down" as she jumps and twists down the 25-metre (82-foot) track with only her hands and feet allowed to touch the surface. "As much as you have to stay focused there is also a sense of freedom and it is great fun," she told AFP in a Zoom interview. "It comes with a lot of skills. It is a very power-based sport and that was what drew me in." Oppon says she was a "very active girl" and aged four took up tumbling, a trampoline gymnastics discipline that falls under the aegis of the International Gymnastics Federation. Her progress has been so swift that she has been described by coaches as the sport's Usain Bolt and compared to American gymnastics superstar Simone Biles. Not surprisingly she identifies strongly with the American four-time Olympic gold medallist and says she "absolutely" hopes she can be as inspirational as Biles. "In the gym, people doing tumbling specifically do not look like me, either black or people of colour. The way Biles carries herself has been a big inspiration," Oppon said. "I think I have already definitely inspired the black community and people of colour to try tumbling out. Also Read: NBA: Franz Wagner's 31 points help Orlando Magic beat Washington Wizards; register eighth consecutive win "Anyone can join." Oppon accepts she could inspire even more to take it up if she were to win a medal at the world championships which take place in the English city of Birmingham from Thursday to Sunday. "I do definitely think it's realistic to win a medal in the team or individual," she said. "It would mean a lot to win a medal as it means all the hard work and sacrifices made by me and my family were worthwhile." Cirque du Soleil dream. Cirque du Soleil dream For Oppon to fulfil her dream, she has had to lead a life far from that of a normal teenager. "I have made quite a few sacrifices, especially my social life and hanging out with friends," she said. "I have also been a little behind with schoolwork because I have been training in two gyms for the past year and a half. "However, it balances out in the end, I guess." Her parents, mother Antonia and father Paul, have also sacrificed a lot by, at one point, taking two jobs each to finance expenses that amount to roughly 700 pounds ($850) a month -- as tumbling does not receive the funding from the lottery that Olympic sports do. However, supermarket worker Antonia gave up one of her jobs so she could drive Oppon to one of the gyms that is quite a distance from their home. Paul still works two jobs and Oppon says her sister is also supportive of her pursuit of her goal. The British title in September therefore made her proud that she had repaid their time and efforts. "I am very, very proud of myself as it was not really what I expected to do," she said. "I was really just hoping to do my best but I did even better than that and came out on top. "It was a very nice outcome." As it turns out she was not so far behind in her schoolwork and despite being "very, very nervous" about her GCSE exams she got "very good" results. Oppon says while she is focused on her sport, the worlds are the pinnacle for her discipline as it is not part of the trampolining category at the Olympics -- she also has an eye on what is to come after school. Further down the line, she envisages "learning sign language" and either being a sports physiotherapist or a sports psychologist -- but before then a year at the circus appeals, but no ordinary one. "I would like to take a year off after school and join Cirque du Soleil," she said. "It would be a really amazing experience to be part of that."After all tumbling is quite a part of it."

Tumbling champion Naana Oppon heads to trampolining World Championship

Tori Bowie, the 100m silver medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2017 world champion, has died at the age of 32, USATF and her management company said on Wednesday.

Bowie also won an Olympic 200m bronze and gold in the 4x100m relay at the Rio Games.

"USATF is deeply saddened by the passing of Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medalist and two-time world champion. A talented athlete, her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed," the federation's CEO Max Siegel said in a statement.

"We're devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away. We've lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister," Icon Management tweeted.

Bowie, who was raised by her grandmother in rural Mississippi, converted from the long jump in 2014 and became the fastest woman in the world that year.

Two years later in Rio, she prevented a Jamaican clean sweep of the 100m medals when she finished second to Elaine Thompson in a time of 10.83sec with Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce third.

Bowie also finished third in the 200m and anchored the US sprint relay quartet to gold at those Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-skipper-hardik-pandya-opens-up-on-gts-shocking-loss-vs-dc-says-it-boils-down-to-me-588434">IPL 2023: Skipper Hardik Pandya opens up on GT's shocking loss vs DC, says 'it boils down to me'</a>

Then in 2017, she won the world 100m title in London.

Bowie remains the lone American woman to win an Olympic or world 100m title since Carmelita Jeter in 2011.

Bowie then re-entered the long jump and came fourth at the 2019 world championships in Doha, her last major competition.

Fraser-Pryce, the Jamaican reigning world 100m champion, tweeted: "My heart breaks for the family of Tori Bowie. A great competitor and source of light. Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace."

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&nbsp;

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Tori Bowie, the 100m silver medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2017 world champion, has died at the age of 32, USATF and her management company said on Wednesday.

Tori Bowie, the 100m silver medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2017 world champion, has died at the age of 32, USATF and her management company said on Wednesday. Bowie also won an Olympic 200m bronze and gold in the 4x100m relay at the Rio Games. "USATF is deeply saddened by the passing of Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medalist and two-time world champion. A talented athlete, her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed," the federation's CEO Max Siegel said in a statement. "We're devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away. We've lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister," Icon Management tweeted. Bowie, who was raised by her grandmother in rural Mississippi, converted from the long jump in 2014 and became the fastest woman in the world that year. Two years later in Rio, she prevented a Jamaican clean sweep of the 100m medals when she finished second to Elaine Thompson in a time of 10.83sec with Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce third. Bowie also finished third in the 200m and anchored the US sprint relay quartet to gold at those Games. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Skipper Hardik Pandya opens up on GT's shocking loss vs DC, says 'it boils down to me' Then in 2017, she won the world 100m title in London. Bowie remains the lone American woman to win an Olympic or world 100m title since Carmelita Jeter in 2011. Bowie then re-entered the long jump and came fourth at the 2019 world championships in Doha, her last major competition. Fraser-Pryce, the Jamaican reigning world 100m champion, tweeted: "My heart breaks for the family of Tori Bowie. A great competitor and source of light. Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former world and Olympic sprint champion Tori Bowie passes away at 32

WWE has a surprise for its fans as John Cena is all set to mark his return to live TV very soon. The former face of the company&nbsp;is set to appear on the final SmackDown LIVE episode&nbsp;later this month. This will mark Cena's second appearance in WWE in 2022 as he previously returned in June during an episode of Monday Night RAW&nbsp;to celebrate his 20 years' anniversary with the company. During that appearance, he did not wrestle but instead cut a promo.

Cena is having a busy career ever since he stepped into Hollywood, most notably starring in the DC Series "Peacemaker" at HBO max 2022. No doubt he is donning&nbsp; many hats but his love and emotional connection for WWE remains evident.

John Cena's last match was in the main event of&nbsp;Money in the Bank PPV&nbsp;in July 2021 where he lost the WWE Universal title match to Roman Reigns. If Cena doesn't&nbsp;wrestle&nbsp;upon his return this time, then it will be first time&nbsp;when he will not&nbsp;wrestle in a year since making his debut.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappes-rumoured-girlfriends-who-all-the-france-star-dated-so-far-in-pics-543174">Kylian Mbappe's rumoured girlfriends: Who all the France star dated so far? IN PICS</a>

Apart from wrestling, John Cena will be filming a movie in Australia in February, March in 2023.&nbsp;It might affect the plan involving Cena participating at WrestleMania 39 in April.

According to reports, Cena will appear on the final SmackDown&nbsp;episode of the year on December 30th which will take place in Tampa Florida.&nbsp;As per&nbsp;a new report from wrestle votes, it is declared that Cena is currently scheduled to return to the ring at WrestleMania from Hollywood in April&nbsp;2023.

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WWE has a surprise for its fans as John Cena is all set to mark his return to live TV very soon. The former face of the company is set to appear on the final SmackDown LIVE episode later this month.

WWE has a surprise for its fans as John Cena is all set to mark his return to live TV very soon. The former face of the company is set to appear on the final SmackDown LIVE episode later this month. This will mark Cena's second appearance in WWE in 2022 as he previously returned in June during an episode of Monday Night RAW to celebrate his 20 years' anniversary with the company. During that appearance, he did not wrestle but instead cut a promo. Cena is having a busy career ever since he stepped into Hollywood, most notably starring in the DC Series "Peacemaker" at HBO max 2022. No doubt he is donning many hats but his love and emotional connection for WWE remains evident. John Cena's last match was in the main event of Money in the Bank PPV in July 2021 where he lost the WWE Universal title match to Roman Reigns. If Cena doesn't wrestle upon his return this time, then it will be first time when he will not wrestle in a year since making his debut. Also read- Kylian Mbappe's rumoured girlfriends: Who all the France star dated so far? IN PICS Apart from wrestling, John Cena will be filming a movie in Australia in February, March in 2023. It might affect the plan involving Cena participating at WrestleMania 39 in April. According to reports, Cena will appear on the final SmackDown episode of the year on December 30th which will take place in Tampa Florida. As per a new report from wrestle votes, it is declared that Cena is currently scheduled to return to the ring at WrestleMania from Hollywood in April 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

John Cena's WWE return confirmed! Here's when 16-time world champion will make his comeback

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit.

The Dutchman, who won the last race in Saudi Arabia, posted the fourth quickest lap in the first free practice but was second only to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in the second session.

He said tweaks to his car during the last session had ironed out some balancing issues, making him a lot happier behind the wheel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-sebastian-vettel-fined-5000-euros-for-riding-scooter-around-australian-grand-prix-circuit-469450">Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit</a>

"We're a tiny bit off Ferrari but I do think that we can maybe make it a little bit closer," he told reporters in the paddock.

"But they are quick again. In the long run everything looked quite stable and quite nice so I'm happy about that. We definitely made some good improvements today."

Two years after the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled due to COVID-19, hours before the first practice, some of the drivers struggled on their return to a vastly different track.

The re-surfaced circuit's new lay-out, which features fewer corners and some wider turns, saw a number of cars skid off on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-begins-highly-anticipated-return-with-opening-par-at-masters-469209">Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters</a>

Verstappen, however, was a fan of the upgrade, Albert Park's first since its F1 debut in 1996.

"It's good. I think the track grip is quite nice," he said.

"The bumps definitely improved, it's smoother.

"But I think it actually makes the track nicer as well because you can attack the corners a bit better now, being a bit more smooth.

"They did a good job with that. I enjoyed my laps today."

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen was buoyed by Red Bull's improvement during free practice at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday and gave a thumbs up to the changes at the upgraded Albert Park circuit. The Dutchman, who won the last race in Saudi Arabia, posted the fourth quickest lap in the first free practice but was second only to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc in the second session. He said tweaks to his car during the last session had ironed out some balancing issues, making him a lot happier behind the wheel. ALSO READ: Formula One: Sebastian Vettel fined 5,000 euros for riding scooter around Australian Grand Prix circuit "We're a tiny bit off Ferrari but I do think that we can maybe make it a little bit closer," he told reporters in the paddock. "But they are quick again. In the long run everything looked quite stable and quite nice so I'm happy about that. We definitely made some good improvements today." Two years after the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled due to COVID-19, hours before the first practice, some of the drivers struggled on their return to a vastly different track. The re-surfaced circuit's new lay-out, which features fewer corners and some wider turns, saw a number of cars skid off on Friday. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters Verstappen, however, was a fan of the upgrade, Albert Park's first since its F1 debut in 1996. "It's good. I think the track grip is quite nice," he said. "The bumps definitely improved, it's smoother. "But I think it actually makes the track nicer as well because you can attack the corners a bit better now, being a bit more smooth. "They did a good job with that. I enjoyed my laps today."

Red Bull are a 'tiny bit' off Ferrari, opines Formula One world champion Max Verstappen

Three losses and one draw in four games on the first day of a tournament, would've had a debilitating impact on any Chess player. But, 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa is an exception.

He came back stronger on day two and how! He pulled off this comeback while knowing fully well that on the second day, he would be up against experienced players, who also feature in the Top10 global rankings in the game.

In a way, this pressure of being up against the world's best was what fuelled the young man's drive to succeed. As the family cherishes their boy's win against World No1. Chess player Magnus Carlsen, WION/Zee Media spoke to Praggnanandhaa's sister Vaishali to know how it all unfolded. 
&nbsp; 
Elder to him by four years, Vaishali was the first in the family to be initiated into formal training in Chess. In fact, this was a typical case of Indian parents trying out different methods to reduce the Television viewing time of their kids.

Then aged seven, Vaishali was enrolled in both drawing and chess classes. It was around this time that a three-year-old Praggnanandhaa started seeing the chessboard.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-congratulates-16-year-old-indian-grand-master-r-praggnanandhaa-on-defeating-magnus-carlsen-455143">Sachin Tendulkar congratulates 16-year-old Indian Grand Master R Praggnanandhaa on defeating Magnus Carlsen</a>

The pieces were his playthings and by the time he was aged four, the little one began to arrange the board and even play. Both kids began to play tournaments and the younger sibling went on to break records at a tender age.

Since then, there's been no looking back- R Praggnanandhaa is the fifth-youngest person to achieve the Grandmaster title and the second-youngest International Master, whereas his sister Vaishali is a Woman International Master and a Woman Grandmaster. 
&nbsp; 
Online chess games were nothing more than fun contests for a player like Praggnanandhaa. However, the pandemic changed it all. Real-world tournaments that involved intense travel and hectic schedules were all reduced to online contests.

<img alt="Chess" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6746470d-ec00-435d-b439-6bb13f87fe14" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chess.jpg" />

Thanks to the new normal, the young lad played a few online games against Carlsen. While this helped in understanding the World No.1 and his game a little bit, it was a recent tournament held in Netherlands that proved really helpful.

"Last month was his first-ever over-the-board game against Carlsen. Everytime he played Carlsen, Praggnanandhaa would be very excited and ready to take on the challenge" says his sister. 
&nbsp; 
In order to prepare for the ongoing tournament, for which he'd have to be awake and razor-sharp focussed during wee hours(as per Indian time), the otherwise naughty and playful teenager had to alter his routine, at least ten days in advance. This meant, getting acclimatized to late nights and early morning hours.

"Over the last ten days, he's been preparing his mind for this online tournament. From staying wide awake in the late hours to waking up late in the day, he changed his routine to stay extremely focussed" Vaishali adds.

Imagine being up late in the night and having to focus on an extremely attention-intensive and strategic game, playing four games, each of which is an-hour-long and taking on the best in the world, that's been the last few days for the 11th grade student. 
&nbsp; 
Pursuing a course in Commerce with Computer science, Praggnanandhaa the student is supported by his students and teachers, who go the extra mile to help him catch up with lessons, back at his school.

<img alt="Chess" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48858c58-5a15-40ca-a667-6bc64667f7fe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chess%201.jpg" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/airthings-masters-indias-16-year-old-r-praggnanandhaa-stuns-world-champion-magnus-carlsen-455010">Airthings Masters: India's 16-year-old R Praggnanandhaa stuns world champion Magnus Carlsen</a>

He barely goes to school, and when he does it is to attend the special classes that teachers conduct for him or to write his exams that help him get to the next level.

While the family is thrilled beyond measure with his latest feat, Praggnanandhaa barely has the time to look back at it and celebrate, says his sister.

"Over the next few days he has a handful of matches, if he does make it to the Top8, then there are qualifier knockouts, followed by the finals on 26th. On 27th February, the young man leaves for a tournament in Italy. 
&nbsp; 
Since 2014, Praggnanadhaa is being coached by Ramesh, a renowned Grandmaster from Chennai. From early 2021 onwards, he is also being specially mentored by Chess legend Viswanathan Anand.

Three losses and one draw in four games on the first day of a tournament, would've had a debilitating impact on any Chess player. But, 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa is an exception.

Three losses and one draw in four games on the first day of a tournament, would've had a debilitating impact on any Chess player. But, 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa is an exception. He came back stronger on day two and how! He pulled off this comeback while knowing fully well that on the second day, he would be up against experienced players, who also feature in the Top10 global rankings in the game. In a way, this pressure of being up against the world's best was what fuelled the young man's drive to succeed. As the family cherishes their boy's win against World No1. Chess player Magnus Carlsen, WION/Zee Media spoke to Praggnanandhaa's sister Vaishali to know how it all unfolded. Elder to him by four years, Vaishali was the first in the family to be initiated into formal training in Chess. In fact, this was a typical case of Indian parents trying out different methods to reduce the Television viewing time of their kids. Then aged seven, Vaishali was enrolled in both drawing and chess classes. It was around this time that a three-year-old Praggnanandhaa started seeing the chessboard. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar congratulates 16-year-old Indian Grand Master R Praggnanandhaa on defeating Magnus Carlsen The pieces were his playthings and by the time he was aged four, the little one began to arrange the board and even play. Both kids began to play tournaments and the younger sibling went on to break records at a tender age. Since then, there's been no looking back- R Praggnanandhaa is the fifth-youngest person to achieve the Grandmaster title and the second-youngest International Master, whereas his sister Vaishali is a Woman International Master and a Woman Grandmaster. Online chess games were nothing more than fun contests for a player like Praggnanandhaa. However, the pandemic changed it all. Real-world tournaments that involved intense travel and hectic schedules were all reduced to online contests. Thanks to the new normal, the young lad played a few online games against Carlsen. While this helped in understanding the World No.1 and his game a little bit, it was a recent tournament held in Netherlands that proved really helpful. "Last month was his first-ever over-the-board game against Carlsen. Everytime he played Carlsen, Praggnanandhaa would be very excited and ready to take on the challenge" says his sister. In order to prepare for the ongoing tournament, for which he'd have to be awake and razor-sharp focussed during wee hours(as per Indian time), the otherwise naughty and playful teenager had to alter his routine, at least ten days in advance. This meant, getting acclimatized to late nights and early morning hours. "Over the last ten days, he's been preparing his mind for this online tournament. From staying wide awake in the late hours to waking up late in the day, he changed his routine to stay extremely focussed" Vaishali adds. Imagine being up late in the night and having to focus on an extremely attention-intensive and strategic game, playing four games, each of which is an-hour-long and taking on the best in the world, that's been the last few days for the 11th grade student. Pursuing a course in Commerce with Computer science, Praggnanandhaa the student is supported by his students and teachers, who go the extra mile to help him catch up with lessons, back at his school. ALSO READ: Airthings Masters: India's 16-year-old R Praggnanandhaa stuns world champion Magnus Carlsen He barely goes to school, and when he does it is to attend the special classes that teachers conduct for him or to write his exams that help him get to the next level. While the family is thrilled beyond measure with his latest feat, Praggnanandhaa barely has the time to look back at it and celebrate, says his sister. "Over the next few days he has a handful of matches, if he does make it to the Top8, then there are qualifier knockouts, followed by the finals on 26th. On 27th February, the young man leaves for a tournament in Italy. Since 2014, Praggnanadhaa is being coached by Ramesh, a renowned Grandmaster from Chennai. From early 2021 onwards, he is also being specially mentored by Chess legend Viswanathan Anand.

Exclusive! How India's 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa prepared to beat World No.1 Magnus Carlsen

16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa stunned world champion, Magnus Carlsen, in the eighth round of the ongoing Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition.

Carlsen's revival after a tough first day of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour was pegged back by the youngest player in the field.

Carlsen had racked up three wins in a row as he ominously cranked up the gears. But against 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa, he blundered badly, and the Indian star held firm for the win.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-olympics-closing-ceremony-china-celebrates-a-joyless-triumph-454898">With Olympics closing ceremony, China celebrates a joyless triumph</a>

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It was Praggnanandhaa's first win in any form of chess against the Norwegian and came on the back of having lost three games in a row.

Carlsen finished down in fifth - up from 11th on the leaderboard yesterday."I think it's about just going to bed," FIDE`s website quoted Praggnanandha as saying.

16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa stunned world champion, Magnus Carlsen, in the eighth round of the ongoing Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition.

16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa stunned world champion, Magnus Carlsen, in the eighth round of the ongoing Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition. Carlsen's revival after a tough first day of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour was pegged back by the youngest player in the field. Carlsen had racked up three wins in a row as he ominously cranked up the gears. But against 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa, he blundered badly, and the Indian star held firm for the win. ALSO READ: With Olympics closing ceremony, China celebrates a joyless triumph × It was Praggnanandhaa's first win in any form of chess against the Norwegian and came on the back of having lost three games in a row. Carlsen finished down in fifth - up from 11th on the leaderboard yesterday."I think it's about just going to bed," FIDE`s website quoted Praggnanandha as saying.

Airthings Masters: India's 16-year-old R Praggnanandhaa stuns world champion Magnus Carlsen

Head coach Pullela Gopichand and Foreign Coach Kim Ji Hyun were also congratulated by PM Modi

PM Modi felicitates Sindhu at his residence

Lewis Hamilton on Wednesday announced that he is close to signing a new Mercedes contract after winning Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix.&nbsp

In the aftermath of his dominant triumph, the defending four-time world champion indicated he will soon be inking a long-awaited new deal with the champions.&nbsp

As per reports, the announcement is now expected to be made during the Monaco Grand Prix.

"All the bosses have been here and l don't think there is anyone in the hierarchy who has any concerns," said Hamilton.

"We do talk about it and we are not far away from finishing things. It will happen - hopefully in the near future," he added.

It had been rumoured that he was reluctant to sign a new contract because he feared losing enjoyment of the racing and had reservations about the sport's future direction under new American owners Liberty Media.

But after securing his 64th career win in majestic fashion he said: "If I keep this feeling then I'm going to be racing for a long time!" 
&nbsp

The defending four-time world champion indicated he will soon be inking a long-awaited new deal

Lewis Hamilton on Wednesday announced that he is close to signing a new Mercedes contract after winning Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix. In the aftermath of his dominant triumph, the defending four-time world champion indicated he will soon be inking a long-awaited new deal with the champions. As per reports, the announcement is now expected to be made during the Monaco Grand Prix. "All the bosses have been here and l don't think there is anyone in the hierarchy who has any concerns," said Hamilton. "We do talk about it and we are not far away from finishing things. It will happen - hopefully in the near future," he added. It had been rumoured that he was reluctant to sign a new contract because he feared losing enjoyment of the racing and had reservations about the sport's future direction under new American owners Liberty Media. But after securing his 64th career win in majestic fashion he said: "If I keep this feeling then I'm going to be racing for a long time!"

Lewis Hamilton close to signing 'long-awaited' new Mercedes deal

World champion powerlifter Saksham Yadav, who was injured in a road accident this morning, has died from his injuries.&nbsp;

Yadav and five other powerlifters were travelling from Panipat to Delhi when their Swift Dzire met with an accident.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/4-powerlifting-players-died-in-road-accident-due-to-fog-in-delhi-28749">Four of the car&#39;s occupants died</a>, while Yadav and another powerlifter were seriously injured.&nbsp;

They were rushed to Delhi&#39;s Shalimar Bagh Max Hospital.&nbsp;

Yadav was later shifted to AIIMS.&nbsp;

Police said the accident took place at 4 am close to the Delhi border.&nbsp;

Police said the car hit a divider and then crashed into an electricity pole.&nbsp;News reports said the intensity of the crash caused the car&#39;s roof to&nbsp;blown off.&nbsp;

Early-morning conditions in north India have been foggy recently.&nbsp;

Yadav had won a gold medal at the Moscow World Championship&nbsp;last year.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Yadav was injured in a road accident Sunday morning

World champion powerlifter Saksham Yadav, who was injured in a road accident this morning, has died from his injuries. Yadav and five other powerlifters were travelling from Panipat to Delhi when their Swift Dzire met with an accident. Four of the car's occupants died, while Yadav and another powerlifter were seriously injured. They were rushed to Delhi's Shalimar Bagh Max Hospital. Yadav was later shifted to AIIMS. Police said the accident took place at 4 am close to the Delhi border. Police said the car hit a divider and then crashed into an electricity pole. News reports said the intensity of the crash caused the car's roof to blown off. Early-morning conditions in north India have been foggy recently. Yadav had won a gold medal at the Moscow World Championship last year.

Powerlifting world champion Saksham Yadav dies from injuries

Three-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will start his 200th Grand Prix in Belgium this weekend, seeking to match German legend Michael Schumacher&#39;s record of 68 pole positions.

With the summer break out of the way, the British driver will be chasing his fifth win of the season as he bids to claw back points on title-race leader, four-time champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari.

Back in Europe after spending F1&#39;s now-traditional European summer break in the Caribbean, Hamilton, who gave up third for his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas in Hungary, lies 14 points behind Vettel.

Hamilton won at Spa in 2015, but was beaten by team-mate and 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg last year and has had mixed results at the famous old sprawling and high-speed circuit.

In 2008, when he won his first title, he was relegated from first to third for cutting a chicane, and he has suffered in other incidents including a collision with Rosberg, that left him with a puncture, in 2014.

Seeking his third Belgian win, Hamilton will be the pre-race favourite to win again but knows that Ferrari have regained the momentum in the title race following their dominant one-two finish led by Vettel in Hungary.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff has already warned his squad not to take anything for granted.

&quot;Assumptions are dangerous,&quot; he said. &quot;We have seen too many times already this season that the form book can be rewritten from one weekend to the next.

&quot;So we will be making no assumptions.&quot;

The race may also be affected &ndash;- as often in the past -&ndash; by the capricious micro-climate of the region, which can mean parts of the track are under water in rainfall while others remain dry.

That, for Max Verstappen, may be a bonus as he bids to put a mixed season to date back on the road.&nbsp;

&quot;I just love the track and it&#39;ll be nice seeing so many orange fans in the stands,&quot; said Red Bull&#39;s Belgium-born Dutch driver.

&quot;Spa is my favourite track -- you have to get everything right, but when you get a good lap, it&#39;s very rewarding.&quot;

That could also be said of Ferrari&#39;s second driver Kimi Raikkonen, a four-time Spa winner, who has been confirmed on the team&#39;s roster next year.

&quot;It will not be easy for us, as Mercedes has the horsepower, but we will do what we can and who knows? Let&#39;s see what happens.&quot;

A big crowd is expected to camp out and herald Formula One&#39;s &quot;return to work&quot; from the beach at this weekend&#39;s Belgian Grand Prix where Stoffel Vandoorne will hope to mark his retention by McLaren with a strong showing in front of his home fans.

With the summer break out of the way, the British driver will be chasing his fifth win of the season as he bids to claw back points on title-race leader, four-time champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari

Three-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will start his 200th Grand Prix in Belgium this weekend, seeking to match German legend Michael Schumacher's record of 68 pole positions. With the summer break out of the way, the British driver will be chasing his fifth win of the season as he bids to claw back points on title-race leader, four-time champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari. Back in Europe after spending F1's now-traditional European summer break in the Caribbean, Hamilton, who gave up third for his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas in Hungary, lies 14 points behind Vettel. Hamilton won at Spa in 2015, but was beaten by team-mate and 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg last year and has had mixed results at the famous old sprawling and high-speed circuit. In 2008, when he won his first title, he was relegated from first to third for cutting a chicane, and he has suffered in other incidents including a collision with Rosberg, that left him with a puncture, in 2014. Seeking his third Belgian win, Hamilton will be the pre-race favourite to win again but knows that Ferrari have regained the momentum in the title race following their dominant one-two finish led by Vettel in Hungary. Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff has already warned his squad not to take anything for granted. "Assumptions are dangerous," he said. "We have seen too many times already this season that the form book can be rewritten from one weekend to the next. "So we will be making no assumptions." The race may also be affected –- as often in the past -– by the capricious micro-climate of the region, which can mean parts of the track are under water in rainfall while others remain dry. That, for Max Verstappen, may be a bonus as he bids to put a mixed season to date back on the road. "I just love the track and it'll be nice seeing so many orange fans in the stands," said Red Bull's Belgium-born Dutch driver. "Spa is my favourite track -- you have to get everything right, but when you get a good lap, it's very rewarding." That could also be said of Ferrari's second driver Kimi Raikkonen, a four-time Spa winner, who has been confirmed on the team's roster next year. "It will not be easy for us, as Mercedes has the horsepower, but we will do what we can and who knows? Let's see what happens." A big crowd is expected to camp out and herald Formula One's "return to work" from the beach at this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix where Stoffel Vandoorne will hope to mark his retention by McLaren with a strong showing in front of his home fans.

Formula One: Hamilton eyes Schumacher record in 200th race

Three-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has received a 30-place grid penalty in this weekend&#39;s Belgian Grand Prix, a serious knock to his title hopes this season. 
 
The 31-year-old Merecedes driver is leading this year&#39;s championship by 19 points with nine races to go. 
 
The Briton has been given a full engine change grid penalty because he has exhausted all five&nbsp;turbo and MGU-H (motor generator unit-heat) in the earlier races.&nbsp; 
 
However, Hamilton seemed calm, saying that he would look to mitigate the damages in this Grand Prix.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Naturally, we&#39;ve already discussed engine penalties that will come into play, for sure, but I will do everything I can to minimise the impact,&quot; he said.&nbsp;&quot;Otherwise, beyond that penalty, that I will eventually take, I think I will be able to continue with the momentum I had before the break.&quot; 
 
? feel OK. It is going to be an interesting Sunday,&quot; he told BBC. 
 
Hamilton&#39;s penalty is a knock-on effect from his early season travails when he faced multiple engine failures.&nbsp; 
 
His teammate Nico Roseberg admitted to BBC that though the pressure will be on as always, this weekend would be &quot;less difficult&quot; due to Hamilton&#39;s penalty. 
 
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will also start the Belgian Grand Prix from the back as he opted to change his engine. 
 
(WION with inputs from BBC) 
&nbsp;

Fernando Alonso will also start the race from the back as he opted to change his engine

Three-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has received a 30-place grid penalty in this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, a serious knock to his title hopes this season. The 31-year-old Merecedes driver is leading this year's championship by 19 points with nine races to go. The Briton has been given a full engine change grid penalty because he has exhausted all five turbo and MGU-H (motor generator unit-heat) in the earlier races. However, Hamilton seemed calm, saying that he would look to mitigate the damages in this Grand Prix. "Naturally, we've already discussed engine penalties that will come into play, for sure, but I will do everything I can to minimise the impact," he said. "Otherwise, beyond that penalty, that I will eventually take, I think I will be able to continue with the momentum I had before the break." ? feel OK. It is going to be an interesting Sunday," he told BBC. Hamilton's penalty is a knock-on effect from his early season travails when he faced multiple engine failures. His teammate Nico Roseberg admitted to BBC that though the pressure will be on as always, this weekend would be "less difficult" due to Hamilton's penalty. Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso will also start the Belgian Grand Prix from the back as he opted to change his engine. (WION with inputs from BBC)

Belgian GP: Hamilton handed 30-place grid penalty

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