Sports

Formula 1: Jonathan Wheatley Appointed as Team Principal of Kick Sauber Starting April 1

Published

9 months ago

March 14, 2025

Kick Sauber has officially announced that Jonathan Wheatley will commence his role as Team Principal on April 1, 2025. The seasoned motorsport expert, who dedicated nearly 20 years to Red Bull Racing as Sporting Director, was appointed to this position last August, but the exact start date had not been revealed until now.

As Wheatley gears up for his first race in charge at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, he will collaborate closely with Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer Mattia Binotto as the team prepares for a new chapter under Audi’s ownership beginning in the 2026 season. His journey in Formula 1 started in the early 1990s with Benetton, where he quickly advanced to the role of Chief Mechanic. He continued to be a pivotal figure through the team’s transition to Renault before joining Red Bull Racing in 2006.

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During his time at Red Bull, Wheatley was instrumental in achieving significant success, contributing to six Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ Championships.

In his new role, Wheatley will report directly to Gernot Dollner, Chairman of Sauber Motorsport AG. The team’s restructured leadership will have him and Binotto jointly accountable for the performance of the racing team, as stated in an official announcement.

Reflecting on his departure from Red Bull and his future with Sauber, Wheatley shared his mixed emotions: “I am incredibly proud to have been part of the Red Bull Racing legacy over the past 18 years, filled with cherished memories,” he said. “However, the chance to contribute to Audi’s entry into Formula 1 as the head of a factory team is a uniquely thrilling opportunity, and I am eager to take on this challenge. Additionally, I am pleased to partner with Mattia, a long-time acquaintance, as he is the ideal collaborator for this exciting venture,” he added.

Wheatley’s onboarding represents a crucial step for Kick Sauber as they transition into Audi’s official team. The upcoming 2025 season will also witness an entirely new driver lineup, featuring experienced German driver Nico Hulkenberg and promising Brazilian talent Gabriel Bortoleto, who will replace Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.

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Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

2 weeks ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

4 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.

Sports

Sri Lankan Players Express Security Fears in Pakistan, Board Urges Them to Stay

Published

4 weeks ago

November 13, 2025

Namma Kudla

Some Sri Lankan cricketers in Pakistan have asked to return home after a bomb blast in Islamabad killed 12 people on Wednesday. The team is currently playing a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, which is close to Islamabad.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement that it had spoken to the players and assured them of their safety. The board is working with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities to ensure full security.

SLC has directed all players and staff to continue the tour. It warned that if anyone still chooses to return, replacements will be sent and a review will be held later.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are also set to play a T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe from November 17 to 29 in Rawalpindi and Lahore. PCB chief and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is overseeing the security arrangements for all three teams.