Formula 1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel have spoken out against Hungary’s new anti-LGBTQ+ law
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and eight-time winner of the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest, posted in support of the country’s LGBTQ+ community ahead of this year’s edition of the race.
He wrote: “To all in this beautiful country Hungary. Ahead of the Grand Prix this weekend, I want to share my support for those affected by the governments’ anti-LGBTQ+ law. It is unacceptable, cowardly and misguiding for those in power suggest such a law.
“Please show love for those around you because Love will always win. Sending positivity. #lgbtq”
Following suit, Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel, arrived at the Budapest paddock with a rainbow strip on his trainers.
“Everybody’s free to do what they want and exactly that I guess is the point,” Vettel said. “So I find it embarrassing for a country that is in the European Union having to vote or having some laws like this as part of their constitution, whatever,” Vettel said.
“So it’s obviously not for us to make the law, that’s not our role, but I think just to express the support for obviously those who are affected by it.”
Politics vs sport
The law has become a controversial issue within sport.
The country is holding a referendum on a law which includes a ban on the depiction or promotion of homosexuality and gender change to under-18s.
Last month, UEFA refused a request from Munich’s Mayor for a stadium to be lit in rainbow colours ahead of Germany’s Euro 2020 clash against Hungary.
UEFA has refused a request from Munich’s Mayor for a stadium to be lit in rainbow colours ahead of Germany’s Euro 2020 clash against Hungary.
UEFA says the decision was consistent with being a “politically and religiously neutral organisation”.
Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said Hungary will hold a referendum on the issue by early 2022 at the latest.
Will Patrick Mahomes be hailed as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history?
The Kansas City Chiefs emerged victorious once again, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 25-22 to claim their second consecutive championship.
The high-stakes game kept fans on the edge of their seats as both teams showcased exceptional skill and determination.
The 49ers, known for their strong defence, put up a formidable fight, but the Chiefs’ offensive prowess ultimately proved too much to handle.
STAR PLAYER
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes led the Chiefs with a stellar performance, showcasing his prowess with strategic passes and crucial touchdowns.
MASTER CHIEFS
As the confetti rained down on the Chiefs, celebrations erupted both on the field and among fans worldwide, marking another historic moment in the team’s legacy.
With this victory, the Chiefs solidified their status as a dominant force in the NFL, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds for this powerhouse team.
The Chiefs join the Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s, the Dallas Cowboys of the 1990s and New England Patriots of the 2000s and 2010s as the only NFL teams to have won three Super Bowls in a five-year span.
Amazon considers acquisition of Diamond Sports as part of its plan to expand streaming portfolio
Sources suggest that Amazon is eyeing the streaming rights for major sports leagues including MLB, NBA, and NHL, signalling the tech giant’s strategic move into the lucrative world of live sports broadcasting.
The potential deal with Diamond Sports would provide Amazon with a significant foothold in the sports streaming market, allowing the company to offer a comprehensive range of live sports content to its Prime Video subscribers.
This move aligns with Amazon’s broader strategy to diversify its entertainment offerings and attract a wider audience. The acquisition of streaming rights for popular sports leagues could make Amazon a major player in the competitive streaming landscape.
Industry experts speculate that Amazon’s interest in Diamond Sports is driven by the desire to capture the growing market for live sports streaming, a segment that has gained immense popularity in recent years.
The acquisition would not only give Amazon access to a vast library of sports content but also position the company as a formidable competitor to traditional broadcasters in the live sports broadcasting arena.
Disney’s ESPN may achieve a $24 billion valuation; potential suitors could involve Apple and Verizon.
In a recent financial report, Bank of America suggests that Disney’s ESPN could be on the verge of reaching a staggering $24 billion valuation. This eye-catching figure has sparked interest from potential buyers, with technology giants Apple and telecommunication leader Verizon being touted as likely contenders.
The valuation surge is attributed to ESPN’s successful digital transition, with streaming services, exclusive sports content, and expanding international markets contributing to its growth. Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s sports networks further boosted ESPN’s portfolio, making it an attractive asset for prospective buyers.
Apple, known for its foray into content creation with Apple TV+, could leverage ESPN’s sports content to expand its media empire. Meanwhile, Verizon, with its vast telecom infrastructure and distribution capabilities, could use ESPN to enhance its content offerings and engage a broader customer base.
This development marks a pivotal moment in ESPN’s history, and its future owner could redefine the landscape of sports broadcasting. As the valuation continues to climb, all eyes are on the potential suitors and the ensuing negotiations.