One F1 driver has been accused of ‘throwing in the towel’ on his season following a very underwhelming Monaco GP performance.

The streets of Monte Carlo delivered a dramatic race which saw Kimi Antonelli clinch his fifth consecutive victory of the 2026 season at the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday.

The Italian’s impressive displays and string of victories see him sitting pretty with a healthy 66-point lead over Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton in second place.

F1 Driver’s Mentality Called Into Question

However, one driver who has not been performing to his full potential has been accused of ‘throwing in the towel’ following his comments after the race.

George Russell headed into the 2026 Formula 1 season as the favourite to win the Drivers’ Championship and proved his title-winning credentials by claiming victory at the season opener in Melbourne, Australia.

Russell has not been able to kick on from his opening victory and his fellow Mercedes driver, Kimi Antonelli, has won five races in a row since then, sitting top of the standings, whilst the 28-year-old is slumped down in third place – 68 points adrift of his teammate.

His poor performances continued in Monaco as he received a drive-through penalty and finished outside the points in 13th place, failing to close the gap on Antonelli.

Speaking after the Canada Grand Prix, Russell stated that the title is now Antonelli’s ‘to lose’, a statement which did not go down well with ex-F1 driver Christian Fittipaldi.

The Brazilian, who drove for Minardi and Footwork Arrows during his F1 career, stated that Russell’s comments “weren’t right” and made him sound like he was ‘throwing in the towel’.

Speaking on the Pelas Pistas podcast, Fittipaldi said: “I personally think he’s throwing in the towel.

“There were several moments during the weekend where I thought, oh, I think he’s going to give that kid a piece of his mind.

Russell’s comments have sparked questions about the Brit’s ambition and belief in himself with 16 races and plenty of points still up for grabs.

He has admitted he is in a ‘very weird state of mind’ following a run of bad luck and performances which are sure to have knocked his confidence.

“I still very much believe in myself and that we’re going to be fighting for race wins until the end of the year, but right now, it is tough.”

Russell’s current performance so far this season has been so underwhelming that it could even see his Mercedes contract rendered void. Unless he can turn a corner, the 2026 campaign could be a long one for the Brit.

Fans could be fined for displaying an England flag at their homes during the 2026 World Cup.

The Three Lions are looking to end a 60-year wait for a major trophy at this summer’s tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Thomas Tuchel’s side are one of the favourites to win the competition, with the likes of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice featuring in a very talented side.

England have been placed in Group L, where they will face Croatia (Wednesday, June 17), Ghana (Tuesday, June 23) and Panama (Saturday, June 27).

There will be a real belief among England supporters that Tuchel can lead their side to glory this summer.

As is the case with every tournament, thousands of patriotic Three Lions fans will fly England flags at their homes to show their support. However, those wishing to do so will have to follow certain rules when it comes to flying the flag on a flagpole, and they could be punished if they aren’t followed.

Government Rules For Flying Flags

Andrew Couldridge via Reuters

Per the Sun, only one flag on a vertical flagpole attached to the roof of a building is permitted, according to the Government’s Flying Flags Guide.

Flags attached to the sides of buildings must be smaller than two square meters in size. Those wanting to fly a larger flag must attach it to the roof of the building.

Flags can also not be displayed alongside any advertising, additional text or logos and can’t obstruct official transport signage.

Small flags hung from the likes of windows and bunting displaying the England flag are permitted. While individuals would have to get permission from the council if they want to hang flags on street furniture, including lamp posts.

The guidelines read as follows: “Two flags on the same flagpole projecting from any part of a building are permitted provided one of the flags is from category (a) (flags which do not need consent) such as a national flag and that flag is flown in the superior position.

“Otherwise, only one flag on a projecting flagpole on a building is permitted. The flag may not exceed 2 square metres in size.”

The council can request a flag to be removed if the rules are broken. If those requests from the council are refused, charges start at £100, while repeat offences can lead to fines of up to £2,500.

Over 2,300 England Fans Banned From Travelling to the World Cup

Carl Recine via Reuters

According to Sky Sports, around 65,000 fans are expected to travel from the UK to the World Cup. Over 2,300 people with football banning orders (FBOs) will be prevented from travelling to North America during the tournament, though.

Sarah Jones, crime and policing minister, said: “The vast majority of football fans travel to support their team with pride and respect.

“But for the small minority of thugs who have let the side down in the past, we are clear: you are not welcome at this World Cup.

“Banning those with a history of disorder helps protect both local communities and the thousands of fans who simply want to enjoy the games. Our tough action means genuine fans can cheer on their teams safely and without being disrupted.

“For fans staying closer to home, we’ve put in place longer pub opening hours meaning more time to come together and back the home nations – right through to the final whistle and beyond.”

Arsenal have made contact over a big-money deal to sign a top attacking star for Mikel Arteta this summer, according to The Athletic.

The Gunners are looking to continue their dominance next season after lifting the Premier League trophy for the first time in 22 years, while they also reached the Carabao Cup and Champions League finals, losing to Man City and PSG respectively.

Arteta is keen to strengthen his squad to maintain their upward trajectory, and turn the side into a dynasty rather than a one-off season of success, and attacking reinforcements are being targeted.

Fabio Ferrari/LaPresse

According to The Athletic, Arsenal have made contact with Juventus over a move to sign 21-year-old sensation Kenan Yildiz.

Yildiz, who has been described as a ‘future Ballon d’Or winner’, recently signed a new contract at the Allianz Stadium, with the Serie A giants keen to keep their prized asset for the long-term.

But Arsenal enquired about his availability in their hunt for a new left-winger, as Arteta looks to add young players with a high ceiling who are good enough to make an immediate impact on the squad.

Juventus told the north London side that there are no conditions that would see them sanction a sale, however, and the Gunners have since moved on to other targets for the position.

Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have both been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer, while forward Gabriel Jesus is also expected to depart as he enters the final 12 months of his contract.

Yildiz Would Have Been Perfect Arsenal Signing

Yildiz has developed into one of the very best young forwards in Europe, and he is set to star at the World Cup as part of the Turkish national team this summer.

Juventus know the talent that they have on their hands at the moment, and it’s no surprise that they will be doing everything to keep him. But it should also be encouraging for Arsenal fans that the club are looking at players like this to come into their team, despite the season they have just had.

His technical quality, eye for goal, creativity and skill would have made him a perfect addition to the squad on the left-wing. Juventus are standing firm for now, but if that situation changes, then Arsenal are likely to be well-placed to get a deal over the line.