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Ben Stokes: Ex-England captain says he wants to coach the side in the future.

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Ben Stokes: Ex-England captain says he wants to coach the side in the future.

Ben Stokes has said he would “absolutely” love to coach England one day, as he also suggested Brendon McCullum would still be responsible for the Test team had he not announced his international retirement weeks beforehand.

Stokes gave up the England Test captaincy and retired from international cricket following his side’s 2-1 series defeat to New Zealand in June, which followed a 4-1 Ashes loss to Australia over the winter.

Speaking at length for the first time since his retirement on the For The Love of Cricket podcast, hosted by former teammates Stuart Broad and Jos Buttler, the 35-year-old Stokes suggested he had ‘definitely’ retired for good and opened up about his longer-term goals.

“I want to be a coach,” said Stokes.

I know what I want to do to stay in the game, which is to be a coach.

“Would I love to be the coach of England one day? Absolutely. I would love to be able to do that. Do I think it’s going to happen? I don’t know. No idea.

“Then, further on from that, I don’t know. I just really like the idea of being, again, in some form of leadership away from playing.”

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Stokes hit a match-winning century in his first game back for Durham after announcing his retirement from international duty
Stokes held the Test captaincy for four years from 2022, working alongside head coach McCullum as the pair reshaped England’s playing style.

McCullum’s exit from his Test role was announced two weeks after Stokes called time on his international playing career during the fourth day of England’s third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.

“I was [surprised],” said Stokes.

“If I hadn’t made the decision that I made four weeks ago, Baz would still be coach.

“So it’s my fault!”

On the discussions held between them around their respective exits, Stokes added: “When I told Baz [about Stokes’ retirement] he was making toast and I just went ‘oh, I’m done’. I’d obviously had discussions with him anyway and then told him over toast.

“Then, again, he was like ‘yeah, I’ve been given the tap on the shoulder’ and I was like ‘oh’. But he’s still very excited and very happy to be moving forward with the white-ball because he’s doing a very good job there.”

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Speaking to Michael Atherton on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch labelled England cricket ‘a circus’ and admitted he’s finding their current crisis amusing

Stokes on his ‘concern’ for Root over captaincy return and Brook snub

Stokes also had his say on the new era for the Test team after former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming was confirmed as the side’s new head coach and Joe Root was reappointed as captain.

Stokes said he spoke with Root, his long-time teammate and predecessor as captain in 2017-2022, when the news broke and backed him to succeed in his second spell in the role. However, Stokes said he did have “concern” for his friend given how the role hung heavily on England’s highest run-scorer last time.

“I love Rooty. I wish him nothing but success,” said Stokes.

“I hope he goes on to achieve wonderful things in his role of captain, and I think he’s going to thoroughly enjoy it with Flem. He’s a fantastic man. I’ve worked with Flem before.

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Joe Root gives his first interview since being reappointed England Test captain

‘But I told Joe, “My only worry is you.” ‘And that’s all I really care about now with Rooty, just because I saw what he went through and how much he put himself through.

“He just always put the team first; he always came second. My only concern is what he went through last time he was responsible for the team, because I want to prevent that from happening again; I care for Joe a lot.

But I wish him every success. I’m sure he’s going to do great, so I’m excited to see what the team does going forward.”

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Harry Brook pays tribute to Ben Stokes following his retirement from international cricket and insists that he is up to the challenge of becoming the next England Test captain

But Stokes did question why Harry Brook, the vice-captain of the Test team and the white-ball captain, had not been named as his replacement.

Rob Key, England men’s managing director, said recently, “I don’t feel like this is the right time” for Brook to be named Test captain, but that the 27-year-old’s “time will come”.

But Stokes argued: “If you think someone will be a good captain or a good leader, just give it to them.

“Brooky [was] made vice-captain. I’m not there anymore, but even when I missed that Test match [against New Zealand] I was like, ‘Why is Brooky not captain? ‘He’s vice-captain.’

“And I understood the reasoning why they were saying it, but I was still like, what message is that sending to him? He’s vice-captain, and the captain is not playing, but he is not captain. Then the same thing happened here.

“I had no leadership or captaincy experience when I took over. It was just thought I was going to be a good captain.”

Stokes rules out 2027 Ashes return

The 35-year-old also appeared to firmly rule out any playing return in next summer’s home Ashes series against Australia after Key said he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the all-rounder came out of retirement.

“I never once thought, ‘I’m just going to give it up and just keep going as a player,'” said Stokes of his decision to retire as captain and player.

“I’m 35. If I’m not going to be captain, I think I’d find it tough to do it. I’m not saying it because I’d find it tough to be led by someone else. I just think that, because I’ve given so much of this part of my career to my job, if I’m going to be playing for England, it will be as captain.

“I was very comfortable retiring from playing and not considering playing for England.”

And asked squarely if he had “definitely” retired, Stokes replied, “Defo.”

England vs Pakistan Test series schedule

All times UK and Ireland; all games live on Sky Sports

  • First Test (Headingley) – Wednesday, August 19-Sunday, August 23 (11am)
  • Second Test (Lord’s) – Thursday, August 27-Monday, August 31 (11am)
  • Third Test (Edgbaston) – Wednesday, September 9-Sunday, September 13 (11am)

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Iran Plotted Wider War With Help From Proxies, Intelligence Reports Claim

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Iran Plotted Wider War With Help From Proxies, Intelligence Reports Claim
Iran Plotted Wider War With Help From Proxies, Intelligence Reports Claim

Iran plotted wider war with help from proxies, according to recent intelligence assessments and security analysts, who say Tehran has increasingly relied on allied armed groups across the Middle East to expand pressure on its adversaries while avoiding confrontation. These assessments suggest Iran has coordinated with groups in Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere to increase military and political pressure during the ongoing regional crisis.

Iran has consistently denied directing attacks carried out by these groups, maintaining that they act independently and in support of their national or regional objectives. The differing claims remain a central point of dispute between Tehran, the United States, Israel, and several regional governments.

A map showing countries where Iran-backed groups are active.
A map showing countries where Iran-backed groups are active.

Who Are Iran’s Proxy Groups?

Western governments and many analysts commonly describe several armed organisations as being aligned with or supported by Iran. These include:

  • Hezbollah in Lebanon.
  • The Houthis in Yemen.
  • Several Iraqi armed groups.
  • Other regional militias with ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

These organisations vary in structure and objectives, but they are often viewed as part of what Iran calls the “Axis of Resistance.”

Intelligence Assessments

Recent reports suggest that proxy groups have been used to:

  • Pressure U.S. military positions.
  • Target strategic infrastructure.
  • Threaten international shipping routes.
  • Increase political pressure on regional governments.
  • Complicate military planning for Iran’s adversaries.

Some analysts argue that this strategy allows Iran to apply pressure while reducing the risk of a direct state-to-state conflict.

Iran Rejects the Allegations

Iranian officials reject claims that they control every action taken by allied groups.

Tehran maintains the following:

  • Regional organisations make their own operational decisions.
  • Iran supports what it calls “resistance movements.”
  • Its policies are defensive rather than expansionist.

Iran has repeatedly accused the United States and Israel of escalating tensions through military operations and sanctions.

Regional developments have increased international concern over security.
Regional developments have increased international concern over security.

Why Proxy Groups Matter

Military experts say proxy groups can influence regional conflicts by:

  • Opening multiple fronts.
  • Stretching military resources.
  • Increasing uncertainty.
  • Disrupting trade and shipping.
  • Applying political pressure without direct state involvement is another tactic.

These tactics have become an important feature of many modern conflicts.

Impact on Regional Security

The continued activity of armed groups has raised concerns across the Middle East.

Potential consequences include the following:

  • Greater instability.
  • Increased risks to commercial shipping.
  • Higher energy prices.
  • Diplomatic tensions.
  • Humanitarian challenges.

The Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea remain particularly important because of their role in global trade and energy supplies.

International Response

Governments across Europe, North America, and the Middle East have called for restraint while continuing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.

International priorities include:

  • Protecting shipping lanes.
  • Preventing further regional escalation.
  • Supporting diplomatic negotiations.
  • Maintaining regional stability.

Officials have stressed that dialogue remains essential to reducing the risk of a broader conflict.

: International leaders continue efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East.
: International leaders continue efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East.

What Happens Next?

Analysts believe several outcomes remain possible:

  • Continued diplomatic negotiations.
  • Additional sanctions.
  • Ongoing proxy activity.
  • Increased international mediation.
  • Measures to protect key trade routes.

Much will depend on political decisions made in Tehran, Washington, and other regional capitals, as well as the willingness of all parties to pursue negotiations.

Conclusion

Iran plotting a wider war with help from proxies remains a claim made in recent intelligence assessments and by several Western officials, who argue that Tehran has sought to expand regional pressure through allied armed groups. Iran disputes these allegations, insisting that the organisations act independently and that its own policies are defensive.

As tensions continue, the international community is closely watching developments, with many governments calling for diplomacy to prevent further escalation and protect regional stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Iran’s proxy groups?

They are armed organisations that many Western governments and analysts say receive varying degrees of Iranian support, although Iran disputes the extent of its control over them.

Why are proxy groups significant?

They can influence regional conflicts, target infrastructure, and increase pressure on opponents without direct state-to-state confrontation.

Does Iran admit directing these groups?

No. Iranian officials say these organisations make their own decisions and reject claims that Tehran directs all operations.

Why is this issue important internationally?

Proxy activity can affect regional security, global energy markets, shipping routes, and diplomatic relations, making it a key concern for governments around the world.

Worn in the USA: Liverpool’s pre-season tour had highs

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Worn in the USA: Liverpool’s pre-season tour had highs

Andoni Iraola’s first pre-season tour as the Liverpool head coach produced wins over Sunderland in Nashville and Wrexham in New York before ending in a 4-2 defeat against Leeds in Chicago. The Guardian followed the tour throughout, and here are a few things we learned.

Iraola’s vision for Liverpool will take time

Liverpool’s second-half display against Leeds was both concerning and valuable for the Basque coach, as set-piece issues and a tendency to switch off – two of last season’s recurring themes – returned, albeit after he had rung the changes. Liverpool’s opening 45 minutes, however, were their best of the tour and showed how effective his front-footed, more intense style can be with the big names back. But that process is only just under way.

Iraola has yet to even meet Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Alisson, Alexis Mac Allister and new signing Víctor Muñoz since his appointment almost two months ago, let alone coach them.

They will finally be acquainted when the squad reports back for training at the AXA on Wednesday, having been given a little time off to recover from their flight from Chicago on Sunday night.

Mac Allister will still be absent after his World Cup exertions. There are fewer than three weeks to go and only two more friendlies (although it is a double-header against Como at Anfield) before Liverpool open their Premier League season at Newcastle.

“I would like to say we will be perfect on the first day, with everyone in place,” Iraola admitted. “But probably it is not going to be like that.”

Liverpool’s new head coach needs more backing

For the majority of the tour, Iraola was without eight first-team players due to post-World Cup holidays and six because of injury, either recovering from or, as in the unfortunate Joe Gomez’s case, sustained in the US. It is obvious that Liverpool’s performances and adaptation to Iraola’s methods would have been much more advanced with 14 extra first-team players available.

Even so, glaring gaps remain in the Liverpool team when every option is taken into account. Liverpool knew about Mohamed Salah’s departure months ago but have yet to line up a replacement. Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters

Mohamed Salah’s departure was announced in March. Talks to end his contract one year early commenced earlier. Five months on from the announcement, he is yet to be replaced. The seriousness of Conor Bradley’s knee injury means Liverpool remain light at right-back.

There are the highest hopes for Jérémy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni – the latter has transformed himself into a strapping Adonis while recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, by the way – while 18-year-olds Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye also did well in the US.

But Liverpool are lacking Premier League experience in central defence and Ndukwe will be unable to play this season due to post-Brexit work permit issues. Gomez’s injury record means he must be considered a bonus when fit, rather than one of four options.

It was interesting to hear Iraola explain how he likes wingers to play on both flanks and the advantages of switching them during a game, but Liverpool’s right side could be an issue even if they succeed in signing Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.

Trey Nyoni’s confident and assured displays strengthened his case for more Liverpool game time. Photograph: Kamil Krzaczyński/AFP/Getty Images

Nyoni is now firmly in Iraola’s plans

There was an enforced reliance on young players during the tour and Iraola was genuinely impressed by the levels many showed in training and in the friendlies. Ndukwe and Talla Ndiaye were among them, as were Lewis Koumas, Kieran Morrison and Luke Chambers.

But no prospect pushed their first team claims further than Nyoni, who grew in stature and confidence with every outing. The 19-year-old and Rio Ngumoha were permanent fixtures in Arne Slot’s squad last season but while the winger made 19 appearances in the Premier League, including five starts, Nyoni had to settle for six league outings from the bench.

On this evidence, there will be many more next season. The midfielder looked immediately at ease with Iraola’s instructions to find forward options as quickly as possible and did so whether under pressure or by creating space for himself with intelligent movement.

His pass in the buildup to Florian Wirtz’s goal against Leeds was exquisite and in keeping with his contribution overall. Nyoni said after the Leeds game that he knew he had to improve this summer. He was as good as his word.

Jones did not seize chance to impress

To pinch a phrase from Salah, Jones looked more out than in at times as he enters the final 12 months of his Liverpool contract amid increasing interest from Italian champions Inter.

Unlike Nyoni and Dominik Szoboszlai, the 25-year-old did not adapt comfortably to Iraola’s requirements for a central midfielder and particularly struggled when introduced in the second half against Leeds. But his petulant reaction to not receiving the captain’s armband from Szoboszlai against Wrexham was his least admirable moment.

Jones was also overlooked for the captaincy when Gomez exited the opening game against Sunderland. On both occasions the armband was passed to Kostas Tsimikas, a reserve left-back who spent last season on loan at Roma.

Of course, that was going to annoy a boyhood Liverpool fan and one of the more senior players on the tour, and Jones, Szoboszlai and Tsimikas all went to great lengths to laugh off the incident in the days after the Wrexham win.

The row might have been overblown on social media, but having listened to Iraola stress the importance of the collective during a sit-down with the new Liverpool head coach in Chicago, Jones’s individualistic behaviour jarred with what Slot’s successor is trying to build. Dominik Szoboszlai led the way for Liverpool on the US tour. Photograph: Daniel Bartel/Getty Images

Szoboszlai wins popularity contest

Szoboszlai was undoubtedly the star attraction for fans across the US, especially in the absence of Salah, Andy Robertson, van Dijk, and Alisson, and in light of his status as Liverpool’s player of last season.

The Hungary captain’s every introduction and contribution drew fanatical acclaim, and the media wanted his face across their channels.

More importantly for Iraola, Szoboszlai led the way in training and his leadership was invaluable given the relative inexperience of the squad overall. Fresh from signing a new five-year contract at Liverpool, the 25-year-old is an obvious choice to fill one of the vice-captain vacancies created by the departures of Salah and Robertson.



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Solheim Cup 2026: Teams, captains, venue, format and how players will qualify for Europe vs USA in the Netherlands | Golf News

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Solheim Cup 2026: Teams, captains, venue, format and how players will qualify for Europe vs USA in the Netherlands | Golf News

Where and when will the next Solheim Cup take place? How does the scoring system work? Which players can qualify? All you need to know about the 2026 edition…

What is the Solheim Cup?

The Solheim Cup is a three-day competition played between teams of 12 players from the USA and Europe.

The event was launched in 1990 and was named in honour of Karsten and Louise Solheim and their family – the founders of Karsten Manufacturing Corporation, which makes PING golf equipment.

The biggest team tournament in women’s golf, where Team USA faces Team Europe, will next take place from September 11-13, 2026.

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Ahead of the 2026 edition of the Solheim Cup, watch the greatest shots in the history of the competition
The Solheim Cup is back to even-numbered years to avoid clashing with the Ryder Cup, which moved to odd-numbered years after being postponed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

It resulted in the Solheim Cup taking place in back-to-back years in 2023 and 2024, but now reverts to a biennial contest – like the Ryder Cup – as it was previously.

The tournament heads to the Netherlands for the first time in 2026, with Bernardus Golf – a course previously used for the Dutch Open on the DP World Tour – confirmed as the venue.

Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, close to Eindhoven, will host the 2026 Solheim Cup
Image:
Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, close to Eindhoven, will host the 2026 Solheim Cup

The Championship course, designed by American golf course architect Kyle Phillips, is described as a heathland golf course with tricky water hazards, a compact layout, an architecturally stunning clubhouse and world-class practice facilities.

The 2028 edition is set to take place at the iconic Valhalla Golf Club in Kentucky, 20 years on from hosting the Ryder Cup, with the host courses for all future contests yet to be announced.

What is the format?

There are 28 matches played over the three days, under three different types of match play – foursomes, fourballs and singles – with each match worth one point to the team total. The team which gets to 14.5 points first will win the Solheim Cup.

There are two sessions of foursomes, each containing four matches of two golfers from Europe competing against a pair from the USA. Team members alternate between shots and each team uses one ball.

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Take a look back at some classic winning moments from down the years between Team USA and Team Europe at the Solheim Cup

Fourballs also sees two golfers from each team compete but each player uses their own ball, with the lowest score from each pair counting towards their total in that match.

All players compete in the Sunday singles, where every member from the USA team plays against a European opponent in a head-to-head contest.

Who has qualified for Team Europe?

The European qualification period for the Solheim Cup began at the 2024 La Sella Open and ended following the conclusion of the 2026 AIG Women’s Open, played at Royal Lytham & St Annes, on August 2.

The top two players on the Ladies European Tour Solheim Cup points list and the next available six via the world rankings secured their spots.

Charley Hull topped the LET Solheim Cup points list to secure her an eighth consecutive Solheim Cup appearance, while Esther Henseleit pipped Chiara Tamburlini to second by 0.9 points after her runner-up finish at the final women’s major of the year.

England’s Lottie Woad will make her debut as the highest-ranked European in the world rankings, having won on the Ladies European Tour and LPGA Tour over the past 13 months since turning professional.

Sweden’s Maja Stark and Linn Grant return for their third consecutive Solheim Cups, with France’s Celine Boutier, Spain’s Carlota Ciganda and Denmark‘s Nanna Koerstz Madsen also qualifying automatically.

Team Europe's automatic Solheim Cup qualifiers
Image:
Team Europe’s automatic Solheim Cup qualifiers

Captain Anna Nordqvist announced Ireland’s Leona Maguire as one of her four wild card picks, along with three debutants: Spain’s Julia Lopez Ramirez, France’s Nastasia Nadaud and England’s Mimi Rhodes.

The top seven players on the Solheim Cup list at the end of the qualifying period, based on points accumulated from all ranking events, will secure automatic qualification for Team USA.

The next two top players on the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings at the end of the qualifying period – who are not already qualified – will also earn a spot, while the captain will have three picks to complete her line-up.

Angel Yin and Jennifer Kupcho have already scored enough points to definitely be in the top seven on the Solheim Cup list, leaving 10 more qualification spots available.

The qualification campaign began at the 2024 FM Championship and will end following the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open, from August 20-23, where the nine automatic qualifiers will be confirmed.

Anna Nordqvist has been named as Europe’s captain for 2026, having made nine consecutive appearances as a player and served a dual role as vice-captain for the last two contests.

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Take a look back at the best of Charley Hull’s seven Solheim Cup appearances for Team Europe

The Swede succeeds Suzann Pettersen, who was captain for back-to-back editions in 2023 and 2024, with Nordqvist choosing Caroline Hedwall and Mel Reid as her vice-captains for the 2026 edition of the contest.

Hedwall has represented Europe as a player on five occasions, with Reid competing four times and also acting as vice-captain in 2019 and 2024.

Angela Stanford has been named as Stacy Lewis’ successor and will captain Team USA in their Solheim Cup title defence in the Netherlands.

Stanford featured six times for Team USA and was part of three winning teams, with her final appearance being part of a comeback victory on European soil in 2015.

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Team USA Solheim Cup captain Stacy Lewis described the stress of watching the Sunday singles of their 2024 victory

The former major champion has served as an assistant captain for the last three editions of the biennial contest, including the previous two alongside Lewis.

The 47-year-old has so far announced Kristy McPherson and Paula Creamer as vice-captains. She added five-time Solheim Cup player Brittany Lang as an assistant captain on June 3.

Who has previously won the Solheim Cup?

Team USA withstood a final-day fightback from Team Europe to claim a 15.5-12.5 victory and win the Solheim Cup for the first time since 2017.

Lewis’ side took a 10-6 advantage into the Sunday singles at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, leaving them requiring just 4.5 points for victory, with Megan Khang, Allisen Corpuz and Rose Zhang all posting big wins to move them closer to their target.

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Charley Hull dominated Nelly Korda 6&4 to post the first point of the day for Europe in the Solheim Cup as they attempted to mount a comeback during the Sunday singles

Charley Hull led from the front to thrash world No. 1 Nelly Korda and Georgia Hall also claimed a big win to raise hopes of a historic European comeback, with seven matches left on the course either tied or in favour of Pettersen’s side at that stage.

Celine Boutier and Leona Maguire won their matches to move Europe closer to the 14 points required to win for the fourth time in a row, only for Lilia Vu to secure the half-point needed for victory by winning her final two holes to tie with rookie Albane Valenzuela.

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Nigel Farage leaves door open for pact with Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain

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Nigel Farage leaves door open for pact with Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain

Nigel Farage has opened the door to talks with his ally-turned-rival Rupert Lowe over a pact between Reform UK and Restore Britain as he tries to reverse his party’s fortunes after a series of major setbacks.

Mr Lowe, a former Reform MP, made an unexpected gesture towards Mr Farage, despite several public rows between the pair recently.

The Reform UK leader offered a lukewarm response at first, before revealing on Monday he had “reached out” to Mr Lowe to discuss working with Restore Britain.

Reform is facing crises on multiple fronts, with continued scrutiny over its financial dealings, the resurgence of Labour in the polls, and the growing threat of Restore Britain as it continues to eat into the party’s vote share, among some of the key issues it is yet to resolve.

Meanwhile, Mr Farage, who last week saw his approval rating hit its lowest level since the 2024 general election, faces a by-election next week that he is widely expected to win but which could still prove humiliating, given his main opponent is comedian candidate Count Binface.

Discussions about Restore and Reform working together come after Mr Lowe acrimoniously left Mr Farage’s party in March 2025 amid claims of bullying and threatening behaviour before going on to found his party, Restore Britain. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said Mr Lowe would face no criminal charges.

Nigel Farage and Rupert Lowe arrive at the House of Commons together in July 2024 after both being elected as Reform UK MPs (PA)

The party – which until now has largely been based in Mr Lowe’s constituency, Great Yarmouth – is further to the right than Reform on issues such as immigration and has enjoyed support from tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has publicly backed Restore Britain several times on his X platform.

But despite Mr Farage saying he was “open-minded” about talks, relations quickly soured again when Mr Lowe accused the Reform UK leader of lying about having “reached out” to him.

In a press conference on Monday, Mr Farage said:

“If you want to do a political deal with somebody, you know, you would contact them privately and not do a 12-minute video.

That said, I did actually reach out to him yesterday. I did say, ‘Look, should we have a call?’ I haven’t heard back yet, so I don’t know what the sincerity of his response is.

Rupert Lowe has urged Nigel Farage to put their past disagreements aside
Rupert Lowe has urged Nigel Farage to put their past disagreements aside (PA)

However, in a post on X after the press conference, Mr Lowe shared a screenshot of a message he said was from Mr Farage, which read, “Will call later.”

The MP for Great Yarmouth added: “I would rather not make private conversations public, but Farage has just done so at a national press conference.

“He just stated he said to me yesterday, ‘Shall we have a call?’ Sadly, that is just a lie.

‘Yesterday, at 10.30, Nigel messaged me, saying the following three words: “Will call later”; the evidence is below. I have received no call.”

Mr Lowe said his offer to the party “remains open” but added: “Outright lying about our private conversations does not help that.”

Outlining his conditions of a pact with Reform, Mr Lowe on Sunday said that Mr Farage would have to commit to not having any former Conservative ministers, such as Tory defectors Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman, in any future cabinet.

“I truly believe there could be sufficient common ground for our two movements to cooperate collectively (to) destroy the looming left-wing alliance that will finish off what hope remains for this country,” Mr Lowe said in his video.

Nigel Farage during a press conference on Monday
Nigel Farage during a press conference on Monday (PA)

“We have recently shown how effectively cooperation can work locally on the Norfolk County Council, so why not at the national level?”

Responding to that, Mr Farage in the press conference said, “I don’t ditch my friends. I stick with my allies, whether that’s Suella Braverman or Posh George (Cottrell); you know I stick with people even when someone else wants me to stop.

The Reform leader added: “In broader terms, look, you could see a situation where Restore, without the hope of winning anything outside Great Yarmouth – I mean, literally without hope of winning a single seat in the country – could do us serious harm.

I think online you will see a lot of Restore’s potential voters now beginning to worry about the impact that might have.

I conclude by saying that if it was an offer of a deal, it came in a very unusual way. I have responded to it potentially, you know, with an open mind, as I would, but I’m certainly not going to be ditching people who I view to be allies and a significant asset.”

The Reform UK leader rejected conditions that Rupert Lowe had attached to a possible pact
The Reform UK leader rejected conditions that Rupert Lowe had attached to a possible pact (PA)

Mr Lowe’s party claimed fourth place in the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election, gaining 8.7 per cent of the vote, while Reform came second with 21 per cent.

In the Makerfield by-election, which Andy Burnham won, the two parties also outpolled the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats.

But Mr Farage continues to face questions after he and his party became embroiled in a series of financial scandals.

Deputy leader Richard Tice has become the latest figure to be facing an investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog for allegedly failing to declare ‌an interest.

The standards commissioner, Daniel Greenberg, confirmed on his website that an investigation had been opened into allegations against the Reform UK deputy leader on Tuesday last week.

Mr Tice has claimed the investigation relates to a complaint about whether he should have referenced his register of interests at the start of a debate on UK democracy and Israeli influence.

The probe comes just days after the standards watchdog declined to investigate a complaint relating to an undeclared loan of almost £80,000 to Mr Tice from convicted fraudster and Farage ally Mr Cottrell.

Meanwhile, Reform UK has faced criticism for its “ridiculous” plan to use Royal Navy ships to stop small-boat crossings from France.

Dubbed Operation Fortress, Farage’s party announced plans on Monday to intercept migrant boats and return them to France or Belgium should they win the next election.

But the plan – unveiled amid heightened unrest at the Spain-Morocco border – has sparked criticism from political opposition and former navy officers, as well as legal and migration experts, who claim it is dangerous, “lacks substance” and would be unworkable under maritime law.



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Bestselling author Lynda La Plante says six-month driving ban could end her career

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Bestselling author Lynda La Plante says six-month driving ban could end her career

Bestselling author Lynda La Plante has been banned from driving for six months, despite her tearful plea to a London court that the disqualification would end her writing career.

The 83-year-old screenwriter and novelist told Lavender Hill Magistrates’ Court that her car was essential for meeting criminals and sources, which are vital for research into her next works of fiction.

Ms La Plante also argued a ban would prevent her from driving her beloved guard dog.

Theo, to Roehampton playing fields for walks, a situation she claimed would force her to stop writing altogether.

She stated that if she were unable to transport Theo, she would have to rehome him, adding: “I think the emotional turmoil of that would truly damn my career as a writer.”

“It’s very, very solitary, and I work exceptionally hard, and I would just stop.”

La Plante pleaded guilty on Monday to breaking the 20mph speed limit near her home in Kingston-upon-Thames five times between November 2025 and April this year.

La Plante pleaded guilty on Monday to breaking the 20mph speed limit near her home in Kingston-upon-Thames five times between November 2025 and April this year (PA)

The court heard she already has nine points on her licence, from three speeding offences in June 2023 and June and July 2025.

La Plante, who is best-known for creating Prime Suspect’s no-nonsense detective DCI Jane Tennison, admitted driving at 24mph twice, 25mph, 26mph, and 27mph in the latest offences, which all happened as she took her 18-month-old dog for his daily walk.

Her lawyer, Nick Freeman, known as Mr Loophole and having represented a string of celebrity clients, urged magistrates to spare her a ban, saying that driving is a “vital part of who she is”.

La Plante bluntly told the court she would wind up her writing company if banned, putting four staff members out of work.

But magistrate Mandy Lamplough told the writer she had not done enough to prove that disqualification would cause her “exceptional hardship”.

The magistrates imposed fines totalling £3,330 on La Plante, handed her a six-month ban as her points total rose to 24, and ordered her to pay £130 costs and a £1,332 victim surcharge.

Providing evidence, La Plante said she got her dog Theo after suffering the devastation of the untimely death of another dog, Hugo, who was “in the prime of his life”.

“I don’t want it to sound trivial – this woman and her dog – but I can’t tell you what it was like with this enormous, beautiful wolfhound. I don’t know how he did it.

‘He would come up into my office; it was as if he said, “Stop.”‘ He knew I had been working for five solid hours, and then this paw would come up – bang.

The magistrates imposed fines totalling £3,330 on La Plante, handed her a six-month ban and ordered her to pay £130 costs and a £1,332 victim surcharge
The magistrates imposed fines totalling £3,330 on La Plante, handed her a six-month ban and ordered her to pay £130 costs and a £1,332 victim surcharge (Hannah McKay/PA)

Fighting back tears, she said she “lost it” when Hugo died and “didn’t know what to do with my life.”

And she said her new dog has helped her through the grieving process.

“I love him; it’s as simple as that, but at the same time he has become a real comfort to me,” she said.

La Plante said she drives Theo to be trained on the walk from Roehampton to Wimbledon, and she does not believe nearby Richmond Park is suitable, as it is “alive with joggers””,” as well as deer, and she is trying to train him not to chase people.

Turning to her writing career, La Plante said she has four books in the works, including one on the government’s controversial early prison release scheme, and she argued she needed to drive to conduct research interviews.

“If I get a contact who will agree to talk to me, I go to them for research,” she said, setting out how she meets people, including criminals, in motorway cafes, homeless shelters, prisons, and theatres.

“It’s very difficult when you meet forms of criminality; they are choosy about the location.”

She added that she could not contemplate having a driver, as she would be distracted by questions while trying to recount information on the journey home from her research interviews.

Ahead of her court hearing, La Plante complained about “very confusing” road signs on the A308 in Kingston-upon-Thames, and Mr Freeman suggested she had inadvertently broken the speed limit while concentrating on driving safely.

La Plante, who created the hit TV series Widows about robbery in the 1980s and brought Prime Suspect to the screen in 1991, was awarded a CBE in 2008 for services to literature, drama and charity.

She was first caught speeding at 9.24am on November 2 last year, when her Toyota was clocked at 24mph on the A308 Kingston Hill.

The second incident happened at 9.35am on March 5, a short distance along the same road, when the author’s car was clocked at 26mph.

In the third offence, she was caught breaking the 20mph limit on April 6 at a speed of 24mph.

She then faced a fourth criminal prosecution over a speeding offence at 10.03am on April 11 after travelling at 27mph past the same speed camera as the second offence.

The fifth and final offence happened on April 19, when she was driving at 27mph.



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Emirates to showcase its tailored services for the growing corporate segment at GBTA 2026 | News

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Emirates to showcase its tailored services for the growing corporate segment at GBTA 2026 | News

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is set to engage with its corporate clients, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and travel management companies at the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Convention in Chicago, running from 3 to 5 August.

Emirates’ participation in the travel exhibition will enable the airline to provide meaningful insights into its initiatives, premium products and services designed to meet the needs of its growing corporate travel segment.

Emirates welcomes all visitors to its dedicated stand.

number 3004 – Hall A, at GBTA 2026, where the airline will showcase its award-winning products tailored for business travellers, including its first-class suite and business-class seat on its latest aircraft type, the Airbus A350.

Furthermore, its Premium Economy product, providing the airline’s signature service and elevated comfort and features, will be on display at the airline’s stand.

With an expansive network of close to 140 destinations, Emirates is highlighting how its global connectivity and seamless travel can efficiently and reliably benefit business travellers to destinations across Asia, Africa and Australasia, among others, via Dubai.

In addition to its services connecting in Dubai, Emirates also provides convenient and direct services from Newark to Athens, New York JFK to Milan and Miami to Bogota.

Interactive workshops for business travellers and travel management companies

A full programme of exclusive workshops designed to engage directly with its major clients will provide the opportunity for Emirates’ team to showcase how the airline is evolving to better serve their needs while also gathering feedback through discussions to help Emirates continuously improve its product and service offering.

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The schedule of Emirates’ workshops is as follows:

Loyalty in Business Travel: Finding the Right Balance – an open discussion on the role of loyalty in managed travel programmes and how airlines and corporates can create greater value for all stakeholders.

NDC & Modern Retailing: Shaping the Future Together – an interactive session on Emirates’ NDC developments, retailing vision and feedback from corporate buyers.

Sustainability in Business Travel: Expectation, Progress & What’s Next – a discussion on the evolving sustainability landscape, including customer expectations, industry progress, SAF, and other topics and opportunities relevant to corporate travel programmes.

Growing with Your Business: Evolving Travel Programmes for SMEs to Enterprises – a business travel workshop to explore how Emirates can support businesses as they grow, learn about tailored travel programmes, customised solutions to meet client needs, and explore world-class products and services.

Through its participation in the travel expo, Emirates will engage with a spectrum of target audiences relevant to business travel, including travel management companies and members of the trade, to showcase its special products that enable them to better serve their customers with personalised services. The airline will also target SMEs by showcasing curated offerings, incentives, special fares, and benefits of travelling with Emirates as well as Business Rewards, its dedicated loyalty programme. Furthermore, SME owners visiting Emirates’ stand at GBTA will also have the opportunity to receive 10,000 Business Rewards points when they sign up for the loyalty programme using the special on-site QR code*.

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Also showcased at the stand is a limited-edition collection of ‘Aircrafted for Kids’ backpacks, which are crafted from upcycled materials resulting from its ongoing aircraft retrofit programme.

The backpacks, created by the airline’s in-house engineering team, are donated to kids at deserving NGOs, making a difference to local communities by supporting education. To date, nearly 4,000 sustainable aircraft-for-kids backpacks have been distributed to schools and community centres around the world.

Emirates has been serving the US since 2004 and now operates to 12 US cities, including Boston, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Washington D.C., Seattle, Newark, Dallas, San Francisco, Miami, and Orlando, in addition to New York JFK.



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Tottenham’s Antonin Kinsky: ‘Roberto De Zerbi forces you to believe in yourself.

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Tottenham’s Antonin Kinsky: ‘Roberto De Zerbi forces you to believe in yourself.

Kinsky was inspired under De Zerbi as Tottenham staved off relegation. Many Spurs fans will remember his performance in the 1-1 draw against Leeds United. He made two world-class saves to keep the scores level, including a brilliant instinctive stop to turn Sean Longstaff’s powerful close-range strike over the bar late in the game.

After Tottenham Hotspur stayed up on the final day of the Premier League season with a 1-0 win over Everton, Roberto De Zerbi revealed in his post-match press conference that he had considered handing Antonin Kinsky the captain’s armband for his first game in charge against Sunderland.

While he decided to stick with club captain Cristian Romero for the 1-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light, it was an admission by De Zerbi that he didn’t quite know or understand the conviction of the character he had inherited between the sticks. Three weeks before De Zerbi’s arrival, Kinsky had made two mistakes in Spurs’ Champions League last-16 tie against Atletico Madrid, but the Italian backed his goalkeeper.

“I wasn’t,” Kinsky says, when asked whether he was aware at the time that De Zerbi was considering handing him the armband. “I’m pleased he didn’t do it. He wanted to encourage me after what happened against Atletico. On the other hand, when he came, he knew me. He knew that I don’t need any encouragement.”

Kinsky might well be the most self-assured player at Tottenham,

You would be hard-pressed to find a more confident player anywhere else in the Premier League.

Antonin Kinsky was in fine form during Tottenham’s pre-season win over Chelsea in Sydney on Saturday (Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

On the surface, that seems a slightly ridiculous statement. The Premier League is full of superstars, some of whom are his team-mates. Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have just joined the club for a combined £185 million ($250 m). Tottenham beat off Manchester City and Manchester United for their signatures. Kinsky joined the club 18 months ago for £12.5 million and has made just 13 Premier League appearances. The Czech goalkeeper is uncapped at the senior international level.

And that’s before you consider the psychological damage that his mistakes in Madrid could, and probably should, have caused. Being substituted in the 17th minute and leaving the pitch in tears after early mistakes in a 5-2 defeat is the kind of Sliding Doors moment that can end a career at the top level. As it transpired, it turned out to be the start.

“All I need is to hear that (De Zerbi) is confident in me, that he trusts in me, and that he gives me some time on the pitch,” Kinsky, 23, told reporters at Spurs House, a dedicated fan space in Sydney showcasing the club’s identity and history. “That was key because, as I said in all the interviews after the Atletico game, I felt good in that game. Even after the game, what happened happened.

“I just made sure I (continued) doing what I’m supposed to do: training well and working diligently That is where my confidence comes from. I was confident after as well. So being made captain wouldn’t change anything. It would just be taking a lot of attention, which was not necessary. It was not about me.”

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Antonin Kinsky has become Tottenham’s No. 1 since Roberto De Zerbi arrived in north London (George Wood/Getty Images)

Kinsky demonstrates his confidence most with the ball at his feet. He is already showing how he could develop into the Premier League’s most gifted and ambitious distributor from the goalkeeper position, displaying a range of incisive passing over short, middle and long distances. Under De Zerbi, who considers his goalkeepers the first and among the most crucial players in his attacking build-up, Kinsky has the perfect platform to showcase his skills.

“What he says to everyone, what he says to me, definitely gives me the confidence,” he says. “If you don’t feel confident, you might play a bit more safely. When you feel confident, you can play to the best of your ability. In certain risky situations, pushing closer to the edge becomes easier. Occasionally, that is where you make the difference in games.

“He forces you to believe in yourself and be the best version on the pitch. For example, after making two bad passes, I or anyone else might choose to make an easy pass the next time. But under De Zerbi, no. It’s like you made two decent passes. If the intention was good, it’s just a matter of ability.

“If you combine these two things — playing as best you can and enjoying the game — it enables you to perform at your best level. This is always his message, above all the tactics.”

As well as De Zerbi, Kinsky credits his impressive confidence and strong mentality to three people: his mother, his father (also named Antonin Kinsky, a five-cap Czech international goalkeeper), and his “personal coach”, Lukas Stransky. He says his parents have raised him to “never be too high or low” and to accept that setbacks will arise, understanding that they result from factors other than skill or capability. Stransky, however, came into his life at 14, and his mindset “completely switched” how Kinsky approached his development.

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Antonin Kinsky and Spurs escaped relegation on the final day of 2025-26 with a 1-0 win over Everton (Ben Stansall/Getty Images)

“He’s one of those people who you see, and you are like, ‘Wow, a great person’. A confident person,” he says of Stransky. “I call him ‘personal’, but he’s my conditioning coach. I’ve worked with him for nine or 10 years.

The reason we have worked together for so long is not just the quality of the way we work in the gym, but also the quality of us as people. When I met him at 14, he impressed me. Of course I didn’t tell him from the beginning, but when I saw him, he was such a confident, humble person, with big results behind him, and this is the way I always wanted to be and what I was going for.”

After his sparkling seven-game stretch under De Zerbi, the Italian has made Kinsky his No. 1 ahead of Guglielmo Vicario, who is expected to depart. Kinsky was also handed a new contract, a major demonstration of faith in a ‘keeper’ who seems tailor-made for his style. Premier League veteran Martin Dubravka, 37, has been recruited as his backup after making 35 league appearances for relegated Burnley last season, providing Kinsky with an experienced competitor.

“It’s fantastic,” Kinsky says. “There is one Czech player in the Premier League, me, and one Slovakian player in the Premier League, him. Eventually, we ended up in the same team, which is great because we speak almost the same language. It’s entirely unique because in English it’s difficult to speak about certain things. However, due to our similarities — including our comparable backgrounds and the fact that he is also a goalkeeper — we have numerous topics to discuss.

“I’m happy that he’s here because of his qualities. He works well, so the competitiveness is high in training, and then we discuss everything. We discuss all the situations and details. I enjoy it, and I’m glad that he is here.”



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Education secretary to scrap Gove’s ‘straitjacket’ school reforms

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Education secretary to scrap Gove’s ‘straitjacket’ school reforms

Education Secretary Lucy Powell says schools are stuck in a “straitjacket” of academic prioritisation, hindering children’s potential.

She has announced a review into whether teaching adequately prepares pupils for their futures, signalling a move to undo reforms implemented by Michael Gove.

Writing in The Times, Ms Powell said: “The one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t suit all children. For some it’s become a straitjacket. A straitjacket that has left too many being branded a failure — again and again — instead of being able to realise their potential.”

She intends to take a “fresh look at what we are teaching our children and whether we are equipping them for their lives ahead” as part of efforts to reverse Mr Gove’s education policies.

Ms Powell also blamed Mr Gove for the number of young people outside of education, training, or work.

Education Secretary Lucy Powell (PA)

“One million. That’s how many young people from the education system Michael Gove presided over who are now left outside education, not in employment and not in training,” she wrote.

“That’s not a coincidence — it’s a consequence. It’s his legacy.”

She said her priority now is “helping all those young people — and the generations to come — succeed”.

Tackling the number of young people not in education, employment or training (Neet) has been one of the areas Andy Burnham has highlighted as a key focus since he took over as prime minister.

Mr Burnham plans to make new technical education routes available to 14-year-olds and bring in bursaries worth up to £4,500 a year for households on universal credit to help teenagers take on apprenticeships.

Andy Burnham has a key focus on Neets, young people who aren’t in education, employment or training
Andy Burnham has a key focus on Neets, young people who aren’t in education, employment or training (PA)

An interim report by former Labour minister Alan Milburn, published in May, warned the number of Neets could rise to one in six by 2031 and that Britain risks leaving behind a “lost generation” of young people ill-prepared for work.

The National Grid is launching a £5 million fund that aims to get 5,000 young people into work over the next five years.

The fund will support up to 1,000 young people annually, starting in the first half of 2027, with money invested in practical training, employability skills and qualifications needed for jobs in the energy, construction and infrastructure sectors.

Mr Burnham said, “Last week, we announced fundamental reforms to the education system to ensure there’s parity between academic and technical routes – giving all young people the chance to have a clear path in life.

“A key part of this initiative is matching employers to young people to ensure they get the skills, technical knowledge and experience they need.

“National Grid’s announcement is precisely the kind of response we want to see,” he said.



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Brighton Pride draws tens of thousands.

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Brighton Pride draws tens of thousands.

Huge crowds turned out for Brighton Pride, with around 300,000 expected to participate in the celebration over the weekend.

Marking its 35th anniversary, it drew headline act Raye on Saturday and it is set to welcome Diana Ross on Sunday at its mainstage event, Pride in the Park.

Over the two-day music festival, Five, Jessie J, Self Esteem, Leigh-Anne and RuPaul will perform, including a DJ set.

People taking part in Brighton Pride 2026 (Getty)

The first Brighton Pride march took place in July 1973, organised by the Sussex Gay Liberation Front.

But only a small part of the community felt safe enough to take part, organisers have said, and Pride did not return to the seaside city again until 1991.

A huge Pride flag was strewn over the parade by marchers
A huge Pride flag was strewn over the parade by marchers (Getty)

For this milestone year, Brighton and Hove Pride sought to honour early activists and “remember the courage it took to be visible” as a member of the LGBT+ community.

Some 300,000 people are expected to participate or watch the parade, while up to 450,000 people are estimated to turn out city-wide for Pride, making it the biggest in the UK.

Raye performing at Brighton Pride
Raye performing at Brighton Pride (Getty Images)

The event brings a big boost to the local economy, and organisers say it has raised more than £1.4m for LGBTQ+ causes.

The Pride parade set off from Hove Lawns at 11am on Saturday, travelling along King’s Road, West Street, North Street and London Road.

It is the 35th Anniversary of Brighton Pride which held its first march in 1973
It is the 35th Anniversary of Brighton Pride which held its first march in 1973 (PA)

It ended near Preston Park, where the two-day Pride on the Park festival is taking place.

Organisers say roads will be closed around Preston Circus to allow the parade to disperse, as in previous years. They are set to reopen at around 4.30pm.

Around 450,000 people are expected to descend on the city for the celebrations
Around 450,000 people are expected to descend on the city for the celebrations (Reuters)

Brighton and Hove Pride comes just a week after a van and stabbing attack in Berlin left one person dead and injured at least 29 others.

People carried placards in support of the German city, saying, “We stand with Berlin.”

Following the fatal attack at the Berlin event, which defence secretary Wes Streeting condemned as “absolutely horrific”, police confirmed that armed officers would be present.

A two-day music festival called Pride in the Park will be held over the weekend
A two-day music festival called Pride in the Park will be held over the weekend (Getty)
The Brighton Pride parade came a week after the Berlin pride attack
The Brighton Pride parade came a week after the Berlin pride attack (Reuters)

Speaking ahead of the events, managing director Paul Kemp said he knows the community is thinking of the people affected and that “we are coming out, and we are not going away”.

He has been managing director of the city’s Pride since 2013 but first became involved with it as a club promoter for the first dance tent on the level in the mid-1990s.

Mr Kemp said, “I think it’s kind of poignant because this year our parade is the 35th anniversary; it’s the power of love and I think it’s really focused minds from a community perspective and the general climate of the feeling that LGBT rights are being rolled back.”



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