The Miami Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about Pro Bowl tight e...

<p>The Miami Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about Pro Bowl tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74834" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74834">Jonnu Smith</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1928162961526272176">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Talks began after Smith expressed a desire to rework his contract, which is slated to pay him $4.8 million this season, Schefter adds. The tight end would reportedly prefer to stay in Miami.</p><p>The 29-year-old set the Dolphins franchise record for receptions (88), receiving yards (884), and touchdowns (eight) for a tight end.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If he's traded to Pittsburgh, he'd reunite with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who was the tight ends coach when the player first broke into the league in 2017 with the Tennessee Titans. He was also offensive coordinator with the Titans from 2019-20. The two also teamed up in 2023 with the Atlanta Falcons while Arthur Smith was head coach.</p><p>The Steelers' tight end depth chart is led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161850" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161850">Pat Freiermuth</a>, who caught 65 passes for 653 yards and seven scores last season. Freiermuth is in the midst of a four-year, $48.4-million deal.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 29: Jonnu Smith #9 of the Miami Dolphins looks on prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on December 29, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31422599/related

Report: Dolphins, Steelers discuss trade for Jonnu Smith

Lando Norris is adamant the drivers' title won't be restricted to just him and Oscar Piastri, rei...

<p>Lando Norris is adamant the drivers' title won't be restricted to just him and Oscar Piastri, reiterating Thursday that it's absurd to count out reigning champion Max Verstappen.</p><p>"I think mathematically, there's still probably the whole grid that can win the championship at the minute," Norris said in a press conference. "So, if you think it's just out of me and Oscar, then I think you're a bit silly. I think there's plenty of opportunities. Max can still win. I think Ferrari ... I expect them to get better through the season."</p><p>The British driver continued: "We're racing Max every weekend. He's been on the podium several times. He's won races. He beat us in Imola fair and square because he was quicker. So I don't know what possibly makes you think that it's only between me and Oscar."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The McLaren drivers rank first and second in the drivers' standing with Piastri leading Norris by three points. The duo have controlled a majority of the season with the Australian collecting four wins and three poles while Norris has two wins and two poles. Verstappen, the four-time defending F1 champ, is 25 points adrift from Piastri while carrying two race wins and three poles of his own this year.</p><p>Piastri agreed with his teammate's sentiment that the Dutch pilot is "definitely" still in the mix for the title.</p><p>"I don't think he can be counted out," the championship leader said, according to <a href="https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13376341/lando-norris-and-mclaren-team-mate-oscar-piastri-insist-rival-max-verstappen-remains-in-2025-f1-title-race">Sky Sports</a>. "The gap is not very large at the moment, and they've genuinely been competitive at a decent number of circuits now."</p><p>However, Verstappen downplayed his title odds, saying that for him, "it doesn't feel like a fight."</p><p>The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, which Verstappen has won three consecutive times from 2022-24, has been dominated by buzz that the FIA's clamp down on front wing flexibility could affect the current pecking order.</p>

McLaren's British driver Lando Norris attends a press confeence on the eve of the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo, on the outskirts of Barcelona, on May 29, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31422000/related

Norris: 'Silly' to count Verstappen out of title fight

Alpine has yet to finish higher than fourth in the constructors' standings since 2021, but curren...

<p>Alpine has yet to finish higher than fourth in the constructors' standings since 2021, but current team boss Flavio Briatore believes that'll change soon.</p><p>"In 2026, we can win races, I guarantee it, and in 2027, we want to be title contenders," he told Le Monde, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45373320/alpine-boss-flavio-briatore-promises-2026-wins-targets-2027-f1-title">ESPN's Nate Saunders</a>.</p><p>Briatore took over after Oliver Oakes resigned earlier this month. He sees potential to nail the upcoming regulation changes in 2026. Alpine will also stop using Renault engines after this season and switch to using Mercedes power units, which is rumored to bring a strong competitive advantage.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 75-year-old added that there will be no excuses not to be competitive.</p><p>"The easiest way to win is to sign Max Verstappen, but we can't. So we have to work with what we've got," Briatore explained. </p><p>He added: "Choosing to switch to Mercedes power was a very difficult decision, but in this sport, to win, you need to have the same tools as the others. For a million reasons rooted in the past, we were at a disadvantage in that area."</p><p>The French team has won one race and collected six podiums since rebranding from Renault to Alpine in 2021. Alpine is currently ninth in the 2025 constructors' standings with just seven points.</p>

MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 24: Alpine F1Team executive adviser and de facto team principal Flavio Briatore looks on in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31420217/related

Alpine's Briatore guarantees wins in 2026, possible title bid in 2027

The FIA is enforcing tougher testing on front wings at the Spanish Grand Prix, and many in the pa...

<p>The FIA is enforcing tougher testing on front wings at the Spanish Grand Prix, and many in the paddock believe it could alter the competitive balance.</p><p>"I think Barcelona is on the calendar of everybody in the paddock with the new regulation for the front wing," Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur said in Monaco, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45357640/ferrari-chief-front-wing-testing-gamechanger-f1-teams">ESPN's Laurence Edmondson</a> "At least we are working on it for ages now and this can be a game-changer for everybody because we don't know the impact on every single team."</p><p>The FIA announced a technical directive to clamp down on front wing flexing in January, stating it would go into effect for the ninth race of the season in Barcelona. Front wings will only be allowed to flex 10mm instead of 15mm under load from that point onward.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Flexible bodywork has been a hot topic in Formula 1 since last season. The FIA decided to clamp down on rear wing flexibility to start 2025 before introducing even more stringent tests ahead of the second race of the campaign in China.</p><p>Red Bull team principal Christian Horner called the new front wing directive coming in Spain a "significant change," though he was unsure how much it'll affect teams.</p><p>Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff predicted Ferrari could capitalize the most, believing the Scuderia was already running a front wing that was "conservative" in flexibility.</p><p>McLaren, who has been the focus point of the flexible bodywork since 2024, has repeatedly insisted it won't be affected. Team boss Andrea Stella said earlier this month in Imola that front wing deflection has "nothing to do with the reason why McLaren is very competitive," according to <a href="https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stella-f1-rivals-being-distracted-by-tech-sagas-is-good-news-for-mclaren/10723448/">Filip Cleeren of Autosport</a>.</p><p>McLaren has a 172-point lead in the constructors' championship, while Oscar Piastri holds a three-point lead over teammate Lando Norris in the drivers' standings. Reigning champion Max Verstappen is 25 points off Piastri.</p>

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, commonly known as Imola. Picture date: Thursday May 15, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31410588/related

Vasseur: New front wing test in Spain could be 'game-changer'

The Jacksonville Jaguars aren't planning on having rookie Travis Hunter practice with the offense...

<p>The Jacksonville Jaguars aren't planning on having rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209912" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209912">Travis Hunter</a> practice with the offense and defense on the same day during organized team activities.</p><p>"We won't put him in that situation to have him do that, although I'm sure he'd probably want to," Jacksonville head coach Liam Coen said, according to <a href="https://www.jaguars.com/news/k000300-building-day-by-day-jaguars-head-coach-liam-coen-shares-his-perspective-of-ota-practice-4">team reporter John Oehser</a>.</p><p>The Jaguars sent a package of draft picks that included their 2026 first-round choice to Cleveland to move up to No. 2 and get Hunter. The former Colorado star played both sides of the ball in college and is expected to do the same in the NFL.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Though he won't practice with both units on the same day, Hunter will be in offensive and defensive meetings.</p><p>"He still meets defensively every day that he's on offense, so he's getting the mental part of it and is able to catch up on some of the communication, some of the corrections off the film from the defensive side of the ball," Coen added. "He's getting a lot of the mental and it would probably be unfair to put him out on the grass and do both and ask him to go do that and see success."</p><p>Coen noted the Jags are still in the "initial stages" of ramping up Hunter and eventually he will be practicing with both sides.</p><p>"In season, he's going to probably have to, just because it's the way practices are kind of organized," the head coach explained. "He's definitely going to have to do that. I envision maybe a third-down day in season where he's playing receiver, but he's also going to have to go get some reps on defense and be able to do some of those things. It will come up, absolutely."</p><p>Hunter, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2024, caught 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns in his final year at Colorado. He also recorded four interceptions.</p>

JACKSONVILLE, FL - MAY 19: Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) runs during the Jacksonville Jaguars OTA on May 19, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fl.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31410378/related

Jags' Coen: Hunter won't practice with both units on same day in OTAs

Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced Tuesday that pass-rusher Joey Bosa pulled his c...

<p>Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced Tuesday that pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71822" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71822">Joey Bosa</a> pulled his calf and will likely be sidelined until training camp, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1927381574539952246">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>The Bills inked Bosa to a one-year, $12.6-million contract that contained $12 million in guaranteed money this offseason. </p><p>The Los Angeles Chargers released the 29-year-old this year after nine seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bosa has struggled with injuries over his career. He has played a combined 28 games over the last three years and has only played a full season in two of his nine campaigns.</p><p>The veteran recorded five sacks in 2024. He hasn't exceeded 10 sacks since 2021.</p><p>Running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174030" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174030">James Cook</a> did not attend voluntary organized team activities, McDermott said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45344880/james-cook-not-bills-otas-joey-bosa-likely-summer">ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg</a>. Cook wants a new contract and is entering the final season of his rookie deal.</p><p>McDermott added that he's staying in touch with Cook and that the running back "will be here when he's ready to be here."</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Joey Bosa #97 of the Los Angeles Chargers and AFC looks on during practice prior to the Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium on February 1, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31402487/related

Bills' Bosa likely out until training camp with calf injury

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is on the Pittsburgh Steelers' radar as a contingency pl...

<p>Atlanta Falcons quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> is on the Pittsburgh Steelers' radar as a contingency plan if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> doesn't join the AFC franchise, <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/1927085359453573255">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler</a> reports.</p><p>The Steelers have been linked to Rodgers since the start of free agency, but the quarterback has yet to decide on his future. Pittsburgh hosted the 41-year-old on a free-agent visit earlier this offseason, and team owner Art Rooney II said during the NFL draft that he expected an answer from Rodgers soon.</p><p>Cousins has frequently come up in trade buzz since the Falcons suggested they'd make <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> their starter. However, Atlanta would need another team to offset a portion of Cousins' $37.5 million in guaranteed money over the next two seasons, though the feeling around the league is that the Falcons haven't been willing to budge, Fowler adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cousins inked a four-year, $180-million contract with the Falcons last offseason, which also contains a no-trade clause. He was benched for the final three games of the 2024 campaign after posting a 7-7 record with 18 touchdowns and a league-high 16 interceptions.</p><p>The Steelers' quarterback room currently consists of <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174124" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174124">Skylar Thompson</a>, and rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210204" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210204">Will Howard</a>.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 08: Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31397858/related

Report: Cousins could be Steelers' backup plan if Rodgers doesn't sign

George Russell was unable to grab any points in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after both Williams dr...

<p>George Russell was unable to grab any points in Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after both Williams drivers held him up, but he was at least able to score a free dinner courtesy of Alex Albon.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKF1sskt0Ys/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKF1sskt0Ys/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKF1sskt0Ys/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Alex Albon (@alex_albon)</a></p>
</div></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Williams exploited the circuit's difficulty in producing overtakes and Formula 1's new regulations requiring two pit stops at Monaco, driving deliberately slowly to hold up several drivers and create a gap allowing their driver to pit without losing positions. Russell was on the receiving end of this controversial tactic and finished behind both Carlos Sainz and Albon as a result.</p><p>Sainz was the first to hold up Russell and those behind him, then swapped positions with Albon after the Thai driver completed his two stops. Russell grew increasingly frustrated and eventually cut a chicane to pass Albon. He then received a drive-through penalty despite arguing over the radio that the Williams pilot was driving erratically. The Mercedes driver finished 11th while Albon and Sainz placed ninth and 10th, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Russell told reporters after the race that Albon "would definitely get the bill" at dinner Sunday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/45326107/alex-albon-buys-george-russell-dinner-blocking-tactic-monaco-grand-prix">ESPN's Laurence Edmondson</a>.</p><p>Despite his points finish, Albon wasn't proud of the team's tactics. "That was a very ugly race. I apologize to everyone watching that one," he said on the onboard radio after the checkered flag.</p><p>Mercedes boss Toto Wolff also <a href="https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/wolff-reveals-williams-boss-vowles-sent-him-an-apology-text-during-monaco-gp.6Ql1QI6ZNBGUhuVc7FYq89">revealed</a> that Williams team principal James Vowles texted him during the race to apologize for his team's defense. Vowles told Wolff, "I'm sorry. We had no choice." Wolff replied, "We know."</p>

MONACO, MONACO - MAY 21: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, shares a joke with Alexander Albon of Thailand and Williams, while attending the private screening of F1® The Movie prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Grimaldi Forum on May 21, 2025 in Monaco, Monaco.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31396449/related

Albon buys Russell dinner after frustrating Monaco tactics

We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the ...

<p><em>We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the Monaco Grand Prix:</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/cropped_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787259/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216846204.jpg?ts=1748218623 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryn Lennon - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lando Norris has weekend he desperately needed</strong></p><p>Monaco is a circuit that feasts on drivers who lack confidence and comfortability, and Lando Norris seemed like a candidate to be the track's next victim. Struggling in qualifying when his car is at the absolute limit, the championship contender drove his MCL39 out of the jaws of the Monaco streets and onto pole position, which he then converted into a much-needed victory.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Norris, who hadn't been on pole since the opening race of the season and faced scrutiny over whether championship leader Oscar Piastri had passed him as McLaren's No. 1 driver, proved he won't roll over. Not only did he out qualify Piastri, he became the first man in Formula 1 history to finish a qualifying lap in Monaco in under 70 seconds. The pole was McLaren's first in Monaco since 2007, and Norris followed it up by delivering the team's first win in the principality since 2008.</p><p>The 25-year-old has become a whipping boy for pundits and fans this season due to the perception that he's under performed in the grid's fastest car. He punched back in Monaco, leaving little doubt that he still possesses the speed and precision needed to be the team's leader and its strongest option in the drivers' championship.</p><p>Norris cut 13 points into Piastri's lead over the last two races, putting him just three points behind with two-thirds of the season remaining.</p><p><strong>Mandatory 2-stopper does little to spice up the race</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/cropped_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787260/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216362969.jpg?ts=1748218662 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There are few things that bring fans of a sport more satisfaction than feeling like their voices are being heard. For the Monaco GP, Formula 1 decided to cater to its supporters after receiving heavy backlash on last year's processional race. The end result was making Monaco a mandatory two-stop race in hopes of creating a more compelling product.</p><p>When the checkered flag waved Sunday, though, the Monaco GP was both a bad product and race.</p><p>This year's race deserves credit for being an improvement over 2024, but that wasn't the bar Formula 1 was aiming for. There were still too many issues with the mandatory two-stop rule that heavily influenced the results, all while not improving any of the often-heard criticisms associated with the circuit.</p><p>Some drivers, like those from Williams and Racing Bulls, still ran massively off the pace to create a pit stop window for their teammates. With Monaco's tight layout, opposing drivers behind were left powerless. Mercedes driver George Russell even opted to cut the track to pass the slow-moving Alex Albon and was handed a drive-through penalty in return. Liam Lawson backed up the pack for teammate Isack Hadjar, creating a gap for the front four drivers to pit into. The move quickly ended any anticipation of Monaco seeing a surprise result from the likes of drivers who took extreme gambles, such as pitting on the first lap.</p><p>Reigning champion Max Verstappen left his last pit stop until the end, hoping for a late red flag that would allow him to satisfy the two-stop rule and win. While sport - even at the highest levels - often includes a stroke of luck, it felt rather unsporting for teams to attempt to fall upwards into glory.</p><p>"Overtaking has never been good in Monaco, ever," Norris said post-race, according to Andrew Benson of <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cq54jwenqneo">BBC</a>. "So, I don't know why people have such a high expectation. But I also think Formula 1 should not turn into just a show to entertain people. It's a sport. It's who can race the best, who can qualify the best.</p><p>"Everything was about yesterday. That's the way it's been since ... 50, 60 years ago. So, the last thing I want is manufactured racing."</p><p>Like every year in Monaco, the drivers put on a show in qualifying. But this time, Formula 1, itself, tried to create a show. There's a big difference between the two, and it's one that begs the question: Is a track worth keeping if it requires this amount of artificial wrinkles and gimmicks? There's no solution to cure Sunday's problems in Monaco - at least not without a drastic reduction in car size - and how far is the series willing to go?</p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/cropped_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787261/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217023861.jpg?ts=1748218706 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kym Illman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Charles Leclerc</strong>: Even when he's not winning or on pole, Leclerc has elevated himself to become Monaco's modern-day final boss. No matter how good or poor the Ferrari he steps into is, the Monegasque driver simply comes alive at his home circuit. While Ferrari looked better than expected, absolutely no one realistically thought Leclerc would be in contention for pole and the win. In Monaco, there's one phenomenon the grid has grown to fear and Ferrari has learned to count on: the Leclerc effect.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>Norris on 1st career win at Monaco:</strong> "This is what I did dream of as a kid, so I achieved one of my dreams."</p><p><strong>Zak Brown on 3-point gap between Piastri and Norris:</strong> "I reminded Oscar, 'I know you're bummed to finish third (in Monaco), but you're still leading the championship.' It's gonna get fun the second half of the year, but they're up for it, and I'm excited to see them race."</p><p><strong>Leclerc on failing to repeat at Monaco:</strong> "At the end of the day, we lost the race yesterday. We should have done a better job. ... On my side, I realized a childhood dream last year."</p><p><strong>Verstappen on if changes at Monaco helped:</strong> "You can't race here anyway, so it doesn't matter what you do; one stop, 10 stops. Even at the end, I was in the lead, but my tires were completely gone and you still can't pass. ... Honestly, we were almost doing Mario Kart. We have to install bits on the car and maybe you can throw bananas around."</p><p><strong>Albon on backing up pack to secure points finish: </strong>"Not how we want to go racing. I know we put on a bad show for everyone and made a few angry drivers behind us. It's just taking advantage of the track and the size of the car. ... Apologies to everyone who watched that because it wasn't very pretty."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>Formula 1 travels to Barcelona to cap off its tripleheader at the Spanish GP on June 1 at 9 a.m. ET. </p><p>The race will be the final one at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya before the event shifts to Madrid from 2026-35.</p><p>The Spanish GP has been dominated by two drivers over the last decade. Verstappen has won four times in nine years, including the last three, while Lewis Hamilton claimed victory five straight times from 2017-21.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1cieI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1cieI/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="946" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-D3ER2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/D3ER2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="664" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31395143/related

Monaco GP takeaways: Norris returns to top, new rule is dud

Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams insists any effects of 2022 knee injuries are in the...

<p>Dallas Cowboys running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161816" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161816">Javonte Williams</a> insists any effects of 2022 knee injuries are in the past.</p><p>"I feel completely like myself …" Williams said, according to <a href="https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/javonte-williams-feels-like-himself-again-excited-by-cowboys-playmakers">team reporter Tommy Yarrish</a>. "I probably can get more flexible and things like that, but as far as healing up, that I feel like is done."</p><p>Williams tore his ACL, LCL and posterior lateral corner in 2022 and has struggled to look like the same running back he was prior to the knee injuries. Williams averaged 4.4 yards per carry as a rookie in 2021 and 4.3 yards per rush during his four-game campaign in 2022. Since then, however, he has failed to average more than 3.7 yards per carry in a season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 25-year-old running back stressed the time it takes getting back to 100% varies by player.</p><p>"It just depends on who you are, it depends on your body … mine might take this amount of time, but somebody else might be different," Williams explained. "It's a lot that goes into it that people don't really understand. Just to be back out here and have another opportunity and chance to show myself, I can't ask for nothing else."</p><p>Williams, who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos, signed a one-year deal worth $3 million with the Cowboys this offseason. He's part of a backfield that includes veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/109486" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/109486">Miles Sanders</a> and rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210186" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210186">Jaydon Blue</a>, among others.</p>

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 02: Javonte Williams #33 of the Denver Broncos runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns at Empower Field at Mile High on December 2, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31380540/related

Cowboys' Javonte Williams healthy: 'I feel completely like myself'

Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher Alex Highsmith is adamant that waiting on Aaron Rodgers isn't dis...

<p>Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104736" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104736">Alex Highsmith</a> is adamant that waiting on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> isn't disrupting the team's focus at all. </p><p>"I just feel like in the locker room, we're in there working, and I think that's just really what it's about at this point," Highsmith told <a href="https://x.com/MikeGarafolo/status/1925708105641279553">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo</a>. "I know that if he does sign, we're definitely going to be really excited to have him. We know who he is. He's a Hall of Fame quarterback. He's one of the best to ever do it.</p><p>"I wouldn't say it's a distraction at all. We all know what type of quarterback he is and what he brings to the table."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The veteran free-agent quarterback has been linked to the Steelers for the entire offseason. Rodgers visited the team in March, though no deal followed. He said in April that there isn't a deadline for him to make a decision on his future, while owner Art Rooney II said during the NFL draft that he expected an answer from Rodgers soon. However, there has been no update since.</p><p>The Steelers currently have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> penciled in as their starting quarterback. Drafted by the franchise in the third round of the 2018 draft, Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh this offseason after spending the 2024 campaign with the Tennessee Titans. He's most known for leading the Steelers to the postseason in 2023 after ending the campaign on a 3-0 run.</p><p>Highsmith emphasized that the team will support its signal-caller, whether it's Rudolph or Rodgers under center.</p><p>"No matter who's back there for us, whether it's him or if Aaron Rodgers is gonna come, I'm just excited," he said. "Whoever's back there, we're gonna have their backs and we're gonna rally behind them. Just excited for whoever it's gonna be."</p><p>The Steelers went 10-7 last season with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a> starting six games and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> starting 11. Both quarterbacks left Pittsburgh this offseason.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 20: Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) hits New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) as he throws a pass during the regular season NFL football game between the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers on October 20, 2024 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31364902/related

Steelers' Highsmith: Waiting on Rodgers isn't a distraction

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc isn't optimistic he'll be able to conquer the Monaco track - his h...

<p>Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc isn't optimistic he'll be able to conquer the Monaco track - his home race - like he did a year ago.</p><p>"I mean, if you want an honest answer, then low, because unfortunately our car hasn't been particularly strong in low-speed corners," Leclerc <a href="https://www.fia.com/news/f1-2025-monaco-grand-prix-thursday-press-conference-transcript">said</a> Thursday when asked about his chances of winning. "And there's only low-speed corners here in Monaco. So on paper, it doesn't look like the most promising track for us."</p><p>Leclerc was infamously unlucky in his birthplace before triumphing in last year's grand prix, becoming the first Monegasque driver to win their home race since 1931. He didn't start from pole in 2021 because of a car issue following a crash in qualifying, and he finished off the podium in 2022 after beginning on pole due to a strategy error from Ferrari. He also placed sixth in 2023.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ferrari has also failed to build momentum on its promising 2024 campaign with its 2025 car - the SF-25 - struggling to keep up with the other front-runners. The Scuderia have only one podium this season, Leclerc's third-place finish in Saudi Arabia.</p><p>Still, the eight-time race winner hasn't completely given up on a surprise in Monaco.</p><p>"I think there's been years where we definitely did not expect to be on pole, and when you think that you have zero hopes, you just go for it - maybe a little bit more than people that are trying to manage expectations in Q3," Leclerc said. "And you manage to do something special, like I think we did in 2021, where we were nowhere all season, but we managed to put it on pole here.</p><p>"So, I still have hopes that we can reproduce what happened last year. Obviously, it's still very fresh in my mind to come back in this paddock. The last time I was there, we won, and it was a very special moment for me."</p><p>All drivers in Sunday's grand prix will also need to make two pit stops, a requirement the FIA implemented in hopes of improving on-track action and implementing more strategy at the iconic Monaco circuit.</p>

Charles Leclerc participates in the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Gran Premio di Monaco 2025 in Monaco, Monaco, on May 22, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31362931/related

Leclerc: Repeat victory in Monaco doesn't look promising

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay died in his sleep Wednesday afternoon at age 65, the t...

<p>Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay died in his sleep Wednesday afternoon at age 65, the team announced.</p><p>"Jim's dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts, in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family, were unsurpassed," the Colts wrote in a statement.</p><p>"Jim's generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana, and the country. He made philanthropy a daily endeavor. He never hesitated to help countless organizations and individuals live better lives. Music was one of Jim's passions, and the ability to share his band and collection with millions of people across the world brought him tremendous joy.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place, and that philosophy never wavered. Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring and unique spirit."</p><p>In 1984, at age 24, Irsay became the youngest general manager in NFL history when he took on the role for the Colts, then owned by his father, Robert. He assumed control of the franchise's day-to-day operations in 1995 after his father suffered a stroke and inherited sole ownership of the club in 1997 following his father's passing.</p><p>NFL commissioner Roger Goodell described Irsay as a "friend, and a man deeply committed to his family, the game, the Colts, and the Indianapolis community."</p><p>"Within the league, Jim was an active chairman of the legislative committee and member of the finance committee," he said in a <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1925342199543218237">statement</a>. "He led with integrity, passion, and care for the Colts' players, coaches, and staff, and his courageous work in support of mental health will be a lasting legacy."</p><p>Irsay battled addiction issues throughout his life and started "Kicking The Stigma," an initiative to raise awareness around mental health, in 2020.</p><p>The 65-year-old also had other health issues in recent years. He was treated for a severe respiratory illness in January 2024. He also underwent leg surgery in 2024, <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/indianapolis-colts-owner-jim-irsay-says-he-s-doing-great-following-leg-surgery">noting</a> that it was one of 26 surgeries he'd had in the seven years prior.</p><p>Ownership of the team is expected to be transferred to Irsay's three daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45259729/indianapolis-colts-owner-ceo-jim-irsay-dies-65">ESPN's Stephen Holder</a>.</p><p>Under Irsay's ownership, Indianapolis reached the Super Bowl twice, winning once, and made 16 playoff appearances.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - OCTOBER 30: Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay speaks during the Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor ceremony for Tarik Glenn during halftime of a game against the Washington Commanders at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 30, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31354488/related

Colts owner Jim Irsay dies at 65

A.J. Brown was among the members of the Philadelphia Eagles minimizing the importance of the tush...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a> was among the members of the Philadelphia Eagles minimizing the importance of the tush push ahead of Wednesday's vote to determine the future legality of the play.</p><p>"I don't have any thoughts on it," Brown said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45241347/eagles-mailata-brown-downplay-tush-play-eve-nfl-vote">ESPN's Tim McManus</a>. "It's only one yard."</p><p>The Green Bay Packers' initial proposal to ban the tush push cited player safety plus competitiveness issues and was submitted in February, though a vote was tabled until May.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The proposal was recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3288614" href="https://thescore.com/news/3288614">revised</a>, with the Packers now asking to outlaw the pushing or pulling of any ball carrier in "any direction at any time." Players would also be penalized for lifting a runner to his feet. The initial proposal sought to "prohibit an offensive player from pushing a teammate who was lined up directly behind the snapper and receives the snap, immediately at the snap."</p><p>Left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/127037" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/127037">Jordan Mailata</a> is confident his team will continue to be successful in short-yardage situations regardless of the outcome of Wednesday's vote.</p><p>"I guess we'll just do it with no push," he said.</p><p>The initial vote was reportedly split before being tabled, with 16 owners in favor and 16 opposed. The NFL requires 24 of 32 owners to vote in favor of a proposal before implementing it.</p><p>The tush push, which Philly uses with a ton of success, involves the football being snapped to the quarterback, who is then immediately pushed from behind by teammates.</p><p>Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie argued against the injury risk aspect of the play, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3255634" href="https://thescore.com/news/3255634">saying</a> in April that "it's hard to make rules on could-bes and should-bes."</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 09: Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) scores touchdown on a tush push during Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs on February 9, 2025 at the Superdome in New Orleans, LA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31344650/related

Eagles not worried about outcome of tush push vote

<p><em>We'll offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year. Here are our thoughts after the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/cropped_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786248/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215172626.jpg?ts=1747580003 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">MARCO BERTORELLO / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Verstappen, Red Bull seize control</strong></p><p>Red Bull celebrated its 400th Grand Prix in perfect fashion as Max Verstappen took victory in Imola.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If you leave Verstappen an inch, he'll capitalize. Verstappen smelled blood at Turn 1, unleashing a bold but controlled move around the outside of championship leader Oscar Piastri to take the lead.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">That Max Verstappen move from onboard 😮‍💨<br><br>The reigning champ gets a DREAM start at Imola!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ImolaGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ImolaGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/zvIUuqXXxA">pic.twitter.com/zvIUuqXXxA</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1924090830085582909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Piastri was uncharacteristically conservative in defense after keeping his elbows out against Verstappen in Jeddah, but perhaps he was hoping to live to fight another day. That, unfortunately, wouldn't transpire as the McLaren pit wall called him for an early pit stop due to tire concerns. Those worries proved to be ill-fated as Verstappen and Lando Norris posted quality lap times while Piastri fought through traffic.</p><p>It never felt like Verstappen was going to relinquish this victory, even when he faced minor curveballs such as a virtual safety car, which worked perfectly in his favor, and a full safety car. In the end, it was a record-breaking fourth straight win in Imola for the Dutch pilot.</p><p>So, where did this dominant Red Bull pace come from? The Milton Keynes factory brought a significant upgrade package to Imola that focused on the engine cover, rear corner, and rear suspension. A floor package also came to Miami. With those updates, and Imola not known for being a high-tire degradation track, Verstappen was able to take the fight to McLaren.</p><p>Verstappen warned everyone not to write him off after he fell 32 points behind Piastri in Miami. He clawed back 10 in Imola. The next races include Monaco, which is always tricky for Red Bull, and Barcelona, which will introduce a major front wing regulation change. Those events will be pivotal for his championship odds.</p><p><strong>The Ferrari cycle</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/cropped_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786269/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215135466.jpg?ts=1747587774 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">ANDREJ ISAKOVIC / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Being a member of the Tifosi isn't easy. At one moment, you're sitting at rock bottom with no visible way out. About 24 hours later, a mysterious force offers you a ladder and an escape route becomes visible.</p><p>Ferrari went through that exact situation again in Imola. Both Ferrari drivers failed to make it to Q3 for the first time since the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc started 11th, while Lewis Hamilton began 12th. It was a disaster for the Italian home fans as only Sauber and Haas set a slower lap time in qualifying.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-dA6kv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dA6kv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>And then Sunday happened. Naturally, with little to lose, Ferrari opted for a gamble, starting Hamilton on the hard tire and Leclerc on the medium. The Italian squad even pitted Leclerc earlier than most of those ahead, and it seemed like it'd work. Then came the unpredictable virtual safety car and safety car, which played into Hamilton's favor but cost Leclerc.</p><p>The end result? Twenty points for Ferrari as Hamilton had his best result in a grand prix race for the Scuderia with a fourth-placed finish, while Leclerc finished sixth.</p><p>While it was a positive recovery result in front of its home fans, it's fair to wonder if the near-podium results will make Ferrari believe the SF-25 is only a few solutions away from the front-runners. If so, the finish could lead the squad down a dead end.</p><p><strong>Aston Martin's brief revival</strong></p><p>Aston Martin finally brought a major upgrade package that seemed to work.</p><p>The Silverstone-based team brought a whopping seven performance upgrades to Imola, which included an updated floor, diffuser, engine cover, and beam wing. A heavy dosage of optimism typically follows that type of package, but Aston Martin has trended backward in each of the last two seasons.</p><p>Aston Martin came to Imola as one of two teams, joining Sauber, to not have a Q3 appearance. However, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll both made Q3. What's more, Alonso qualified fifth, only behind both McLarens, Max Verstappen, and George Russell.</p><p>Unfortunately, the results didn't translate to the race as Aston Martin's qualifying gamble to use medium tires, its strategy, and the timing from the safety car left both drivers out of the points. Alonso, who fought back to 11th, called himself the unluckiest driver in the world during the race.</p><p>Aston Martin's qualifying results are too small a sample size to say whether the team has steered the ship straight, but there's optimism that its new wind tunnel, which went into use in March, was the catalyst for the bright spot. Either way, it's a good sign Aston Martin didn't find itself in the same tier as Sauber this weekend.</p><p><strong>Mercedes' worst day in years</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/cropped_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785777/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214582407.jpg?ts=1747327702 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Davies - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Mercedes came to Imola with a multitude of reasons to be optimistic: fresh upgrades, George Russell closing in on Verstappen, and of course, a homecoming for Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli.</p><p>However, Imola decided to crash Mercedes and Antonelli's party. </p><p>The W16 still struggled with tire temperatures in the race as Russell suffered from degradation far worse than any of the other front-runners. He placed seventh, marking the end of an impressive run of 11 consecutive top-five finishes that dated back to Mexico last year. It was a cold reality check for a constructor that was hoping to make progress on its race pace.</p><p>Antonelli had it even worse, as he was cursed with home race heartbreak. In front of the Italian crowd, the 18-year-old was eliminated in Q2 and his Sunday ended on a whimper as he was forced to retire due to a car issue.</p><p>Mercedes left Imola with just six points, its fewest in a weekend since the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix. </p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><p><strong>Max Verstappen</strong>: The difference Saturday between Verstappen and Piastri's pole - .034 seconds - was the only element that kept the Imola conquest from being a grand slam for the Red Bull driver, who led all 63 laps and recorded the fastest lap. His overtake at the start was one of the best of his career. There was no better driver this weekend than the reigning world champion.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>Horner on Verstappen's great overtake on Lap 1:</strong> "His start, and that first corner, was kinda win it or bin it. The commitment that he had - and Oscar was fair and gave him space - but you can see he's coming from way back and pushes up the inside. He just commits to the corner, and that was the last they saw of him. Incredibly decisive, and he's just so good in those situations."</p><p><strong>Norris positive with race result: </strong>"I think second was the best we could have achieved today. Max was fast, the Red Bull was quick, so I don't think we really had an answer for them, even in the final stint."</p><p><strong>Hamilton seeing Ferrari improvements: </strong>"The experience with the Tifosi, 'Wow.' It was very special to me to see the sea of red. ... I definitely didn't expect for us to finish fourth today. I didn't know where we would be able to come, given we were so far back. The car felt great, the team did a fantastic job with strategy; they were faultless. I think we're slowly getting there."</p><p><strong>Russell on Mercedes' struggles:</strong> "We were just dead slow. The trends are pretty clear: When it's hot, we're slow, when it's cold, we're quick, and that was the same as last year. We've been doing everything with the setup to find solutions, but there's clearly something more fundamental with the car. ... Today, we were very lucky to finish P7 in all honesty."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/cropped_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630387/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154757811.jpg?ts=1716761633 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Clive Rose / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The European tripleheader rolls into Monaco on Sunday, May 25 at 9:00 a.m. ET.</p><p>There have been six different winners at the circuit over the last seven races. Leclerc celebrated the first win at his home race last year, while Verstappen claimed victory in 2021 and 2023.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NGoGK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NGoGK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="946" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' Standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-sWCvF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/sWCvF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="664" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31332756/related

Emilia-Romagna GP takeaways: Verstappen's Lap 1 brilliance

Journalism stormed back to take a stunning victory Saturday at the 150th Preakness Stakes at the ...

<p>Journalism stormed back to take a stunning victory Saturday at the 150th Preakness Stakes at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"A REMARKABLE RECOVERY BY JOURNALISM!"<br><br>JOURNALISM WINS THE 150TH PREAKNESS STAKES! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Preakness150?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Preakness150</a> <a href="https://t.co/f2IOVEyUy9">pic.twitter.com/f2IOVEyUy9</a></p>— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSports/status/1923879182305538538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ridden by jockey Umberto Rispoli, Journalism narrowly edged out Gosger for the win, overcoming early contact in the race before surging to the finish line.</p><p>The victory was redemption for Journalism after finishing runner-up at the Kentucky Derby earlier in May. Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby winner, didn't participate in the Preakness Stakes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's how the $2 bets paid out based on Saturday's results:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>No.</th>
<th> Horse</th>
<th> Win</th>
<th> Place</th>
<th> Show</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> Journalism</td>
<td> $4</td>
<td> $2.80</td>
<td> $2.40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Gosger</td>
<td> </td>
<td>$9.00</td>
<td> $5.40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> Sandman</td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td>$3.60</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Here's the final result:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Order of Finish</th>
<th>Horse</th>
<th>Lengths Behind</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> Journalism</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> Gosger</td>
<td> 1/2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> Sandman</td>
<td> 2 3/4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Goal Oriented</td>
<td> 6 3/4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> Heart of Honor</td>
<td> 8 3/4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> River Thames</td>
<td> 11 1/2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> Pay Billy</td>
<td> 16 1/2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td> American Promise</td>
<td> 18 1/4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Clever Again</td>
<td> 31 1/2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - MAY 17: Jockey Umberto Rispoli crosses the finish line on Journalism #2 to win the 150th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 17, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31319923/related

Journalism storms back to win 150th Preakness Stakes

North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick says transitioning to college football has been a consta...

<p>North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick says transitioning to college football has been a constant learning experience for him.</p><p>"I learn every day, and I've learned so much being back in the college environment, whether it be recruiting, the college game, the rules, the hashmarks, some strategy, and just putting a team together. I've learned a lot," Belichick said Friday during an appearance on "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6UOjoTVLZA">Good Morning America</a>" to promote his new book, "The Art of Winning."</p><p>Belichick's relationship with 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson has attracted much scrutiny, but the 73-year-old coach reiterated Friday - echoing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285380" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285380">comments</a> made earlier this week - that she "doesn't have anything to do with football."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"She's been terrific through the whole process, and she's been very helpful to me," Belichick said. "She does the business things that don't relate to North Carolina that come up in my life, so I can concentrate on football, and that's really what I want to do."</p><p>Belichick declined to get into further details, saying he didn't want to discuss personal relationships but confirmed that he's happy.</p><p>North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham praised Belichick earlier this week following a report refuted by the school that it had banned Hudson from its facilities, calling him "an incredibly focused person."</p><p>Belichick, who won six Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots and racked up 333 NFL victories, took the Tar Heels coaching job in December.</p>

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 12: Head coach Bill Belichick of the North Carolina Tar Heels coaches at Kenan Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31306589/related

Belichick: 'I've learned so much' being back in college football

A representative for former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr spoke with at least two tea...

<p>A representative for former New Orleans Saints quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22061" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/22061">Derek Carr</a> spoke with at least two teams in need of a passer to gauge their interest prior to free agency, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45126722/new-orleans-saints-derek-carr-retirement-injury-questions-contract">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Katherine Terrell</a>.</p><p>Though one league source deemed the contact as indirect, a Saints source said no permission was given in writing to Carr to speak to other teams, according to Fowler and Terrell. Another Saints source said the team was aware of Carr reaching out to other clubs but didn't consider it a major issue, partly due to the belief that his longevity had earned him the right to evaluate his future, per Fowler and Terrell.</p><p>The discussions with other teams reportedly never became serious.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Carr <a href="http://Derek%20Carr%20retires%20due%20to%20shoulder%20injury">announced</a> his retirement last week after medical scans revealed he was dealing with a labral tear and significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff. The 34-year-old and the franchise were weighing their options, including the possibility that Carr could miss the entire 2025 season, before the quarterback decided to retire.</p><p>Carr's shoulder issue was reported in April, though there was a lack of clarity about the specifics of the injury until his retirement. The quarterback experienced pain in his right shoulder in late March while ramping up his preparation for the 2025 season, according to the team's statement on his retirement.</p><p>Some within the Saints told Fowler and Terrell they learned about the injury in late March, but one New Orleans coaching source reportedly said he learned about the issue when the initial report from April surfaced.</p><p>Carr's final season with the Saints was plagued by injuries, including an oblique ailment and a fractured left hand that ended his season. He missed seven games overall.</p><p>The Saints drafted <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210047">Tyler Shough</a> in the second round last month due to the lack of clarity surrounding Carr. Shough will compete with <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199980">Spencer Rattler</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188302">Jake Haener</a> for the starting quarterback job.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 1: Derek Carr #4 of the New Orleans Saints plays against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half of a game at the Caesars Superdome on December 1, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31304429/related

Report: Carr gauged interest from other teams during offseason

Welcome to the first edition of our Formula 1 driver rankings for the 2025 season. Here's how eac...

<p><em>Welcome to the first edition of our Formula 1 driver rankings for the 2025 season. Here's how each driver stacks up after a quarter of the season. Retirements not counted for worst finish.</em></p><h3>1. Oscar Piastri, McLaren</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/cropped_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785108/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212932055.jpg?ts=1746970099 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Podiums</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>131</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 1st</td>
<td> 9th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Piastri didn't just step up, he's grown by leaps and bounds. The 24-year-old finds himself leading the championship after taking four wins and five podiums from the first six races.</p><h3>2. Max Verstappen, Red Bull</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Podiums</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>99</td>
<td> 3</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 1st</td>
<td> 6th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The reigning world champion is dragging his Red Bull into title contention. While the car hasn't been able to keep up on race day, Verstappen's staked his worth in qualifying, with his three poles besting both McLaren drivers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>3. George Russell, Mercedes</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Podiums</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>93</td>
<td> 4</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 2nd</td>
<td> 5th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Russell's start to 2025 has been largely impeccable. He has qualified and finished in the top five in every competitive session, has more podiums than all non-McLaren drivers, and sits just six points behind Verstappen.</p><h3>4. Charles Leclerc, Ferrari</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Podiums</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>53</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td> 3</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 3rd</td>
<td> 8th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Ferrari has been a disappointment, but Leclerc has barely left any meat on the bone. When the team isn't costing him points with disqualifications, the eight-time race winner makes the most of a dire situation.</p><h3>5. Lando Norris, McLaren</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/cropped_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785109/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212870383.jpg?ts=1746970150 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Podiums</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>115</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 1st</td>
<td> 4th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>This probably isn't how Norris thought his season would go. He's been overmatched by his teammate as he struggles to adapt to his new car. The good news? Even with his troubles, he's only 16 points back of Piastri.</p><h3>6. Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>41</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 5th</td>
<td> 10th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Can we time travel back to January in Maranello when Hamilton and Ferrari had F1 in the palm of their hands? Although he sprinkled in an incredible sprint win, Hamilton hasn't looked as revitalized as some may have hoped, and Ferrari's SF-25 has been a dud.</p><h3>7. Alex Albon, Williams</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td> 2</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 5th</td>
<td> 12th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Williams is off to its best start in years, and Albon is due a ton of credit for that. He's finished in the points in five of six races and is closer to Hamilton in the standings than the drivers behind him.</p><h3>8. Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>48</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td> 5</td>
<td> 4th</td>
<td> 11th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>There have been some growing pains, but Antonelli has done exactly what Mercedes desired: prove there is generational potential in this 18-year-old rookie.</p><h3>9. Carlos Sainz, Williams</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>3</td>
<td> 8th</td>
<td> 14th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It took Sainz a bit to find comfort inside his new Williams, but he seems to have turned a corner with two straight points finishes and three consecutive Q3 appearances.</p><h3>10. Isack Hadjar, Racing Bulls</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/cropped_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785110/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210515733.jpg?ts=1746970254 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">GIUSEPPE CACACE / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 2</td>
<td> 8th</td>
<td> 13th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Hadjar's raw pace has almost completely erased the memory of his formation lap crash in Australia. He's been perhaps the most unexpected rookie bright spot this season.</p><h3>11. Esteban Ocon, Haas</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td> 2</td>
<td> 5th</td>
<td> 18th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Arguably no driver has looked better in a new environment than Ocon, who sits ninth in the drivers' standings. </p><h3>12. Pierre Gasly, Alpine</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td>7th</td>
<td> 13th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Gasly has steered the ship during another inconsistent year from Alpine. His terrific weekend in Bahrain was another example of the French driver developing into one of the most underrated pilots on the grid.</p><h3>13. Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 2</td>
<td> 9th</td>
<td> 16th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Tsunoda's momentum took a hit after his move to Red Bull curbed his hot start at Racing Bulls. He slowly seems to be finding his footing again.</p><h3>14. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 11th</td>
<td> 15th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Alonso's had a few uncharacteristic slipups, which might be a sign of age finally catching up to him. However, he could also be pushing an Aston Martin car that simply has no pace to give.</p><h3>15. Oliver Bearman, Haas</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/cropped_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785111/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213399443.jpg?ts=1746970306 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Clive Rose / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 3</td>
<td> 8th</td>
<td> 14th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's been a mix of highs and lows from Bearman. He's finished in the points in half of the races this season, but he's also qualified 20th in half of the races.</p><h3>16. Nico Hulkenberg, Sauber</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 1</td>
<td> 7th</td>
<td> 16th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's been a largely invisible season for the Sauber drivers, but Hulkenberg still seems to have a slight edge over his rookie teammate.</p><h3>17. Lance Stroll, Aston Martin</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 2</td>
<td> 6th</td>
<td> 20th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>While Stroll's been on the receiving end of a lot of criticism over the years - most of it warranted - he's single-handedly carrying Aston Martin in the standings.</p><h3>18. Gabriel Bortoleto, Sauber</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 14th</td>
<td> 19th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Bortoleto had the best showing of his rookie year in Miami by qualifying 13th. Maybe that'll serve as a turning point after an uneventful beginning to his F1 career.</p><h3>19. Jack Doohan, Alpine</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 13th</td>
<td> 17th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Doohan's start to 2025 was unremarkable, and Alpine elected to drop him after six races as a result. While harsh, it's tough to argue against seeking out other options.</p><h3>20. Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/cropped_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785112/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211174227.jpg?ts=1746970372 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Top 5</th>
<th>Top 10</th>
<th>Best Finish</th>
<th>Worst Finish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 0</td>
<td> 12th</td>
<td> 17th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>While Alpine ended the Doohan experiment after six races, it took Red Bull only two races to pull the plug on Lawson. The Kiwi driver has struggled to consistently outpace his rookie teammate, Hadjar, since the move.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31303912/related

F1 Power Rankings: How drivers stack up early in season

Caleb Williams and his family tried finding ways to avoid being drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2...

<p>Caleb Williams and his family tried finding ways to avoid being drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2024 due to concerns about the franchise, according to the book "American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback" by <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45161794/caleb-williams-sought-way-going-chicago-bears">ESPN's Seth Wickersham</a>.</p><p>Williams' father, Carl, was worried his son wouldn't be in an optimal environment for support due to the Bears' track record, the state of the offense under former head coach Matt Eberflus, and the uncertainty surrounding the Bears' stadium. Carl also told Wickersham prior to the 2024 NFL Draft that "Chicago is the place quarterbacks go to die" and told multiple agents he didn't want his son playing for the Bears.</p><p>The quarterback's father also met with labor lawyers and agents to see if there was a way around the NFL's collective bargaining agreement. He pondered whether Williams could sign with the United Football League and move to the NFL in 2025 as a free agent so he could sign anywhere. Carl also spoke with Archie Manning, the father of Eli, who famously refused to play for the then-San Diego Chargers before the 2004 draft.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Williams apparently told confidants that he was unsure whether he could work with former Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, even telling his father he needed to play for the Vikings after meeting with head coach Kevin O'Connell at the NFL combine.</p><p>However, Bears general manager Ryan Poles was adamant the franchise would select Williams "no matter what." Despite considerations about publicly bashing the club and Chicago to force the team's hand, Williams changed his tune after a positive pre-draft visit to the team's facility. He told Wickersham he "wasn't ready to nuke the city."</p><p>Williams had a turbulent rookie season after being picked first overall by the Bears. He completed 62.5% of his passes for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and six interceptions but was sacked a league-high 68 times. Chicago struggled to a 5-12 record and fired Eberflus after 12 games, marking the first time the franchise has ever terminated a coach midseason. Waldron was also fired after nine games.</p><p>Williams revealed he sometimes wouldn't receive instructions on what film to watch during his rookie campaign, leading to solo study sessions.</p><p>The 23-year-old passer enters the 2025 season paired with new Bears head coach Ben Johnson, who was renowned for his work as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator.</p><p>Chicago's new sideline boss downplayed Williams' comments from Wickersham's book. </p><p>"I don't know what's gone on prior to him joining the organization, but he is very proud to be a Chicago Bear," Johnson said during an appearance on "The Herd", according to <a href="https://x.com/JABergman/status/1923087752666440144">Jeremy Bergman of NFL.com</a>. "He's really excited to get to work right now and be the best version of himself for 2025."</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 25: (L-R) Caleb Williams poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected first overall by the Chicago Bears during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza on April 25, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31298462/related

Williams tried avoiding getting drafted by Bears, wanted Vikings

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/daniel-valente/content_cards