Christian Horner ‘approached Formula One team over sensational return to the sport following Red Bull sacking’… but venture broke down after one ‘exploratory talk’

Christian Horner has reportedly approached a Formula One team about a potential return to the sport, but so far, with little success. The former Red Bull team principal, and husband of Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, was given a massive £80 million payoff after being abruptly sacked from his long-term role in July 2024.

Since his departure, Horner has been enjoying his time away from the F1 spotlight. He was seen at an Oasis gig at Wembley, where he was booed, and recently embarked on a road trip through the Scottish Highlands with his wife, Geri. Despite this, it has been revealed that Horner misses Formula One and would be permitted to return from 2026.

The 51-year-old has already begun considering his options. Notably, he chose to accept less than the £110 million that would have been available to him; however, taking the higher sum would have prevented him from returning to a job within the sport for several years, according to Daily Mail Sport’s Jonathan McEvoy.

Several teams—including Haas, Alpine, Ferrari, and Aston Martin—have been linked with Horner’s potential return. Aston Martin, in particular, recently recruited Horner’s former Red Bull ally, renowned designer Adrian Newey, after 19 years working together.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu revealed that Horner approached the American team about a role just months after leaving Red Bull. “Yeah, it is true that he approached us,” Komatsu said ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. “One of our guys had an exploratory talk. And that’s it. Nothing has gone any further. It is finished.”

He added, “I’ve got nothing more to say. Like I said, you write whatever you want. I’m not fuelling that story.”

Horner has been strongly linked with a move to Aston Martin to reunite with Newey. However, “Drive to Survive” cult favourite and former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes that the acrimonious relationship between Horner and Newey in the past year makes such a move highly unlikely.

Newey, widely regarded as the greatest Formula 1 designer in history, reportedly asked to leave Red Bull after becoming unsettled by allegations against Horner. These allegations first emerged in February 2024, accusing Horner of acting coercively towards a female employee. Horner has denied any wrongdoing and was twice cleared by King’s Counsel in internal hearings.

Steiner, 60, told Lottoland:
“In the last year, the problem between Adrian and Christian was one of the reasons why Adrian left Red Bull.
So, bringing Christian back, I don’t think that would work at the moment. I don’t think Aston Martin need Christian right now.
I think there was a lot of unhappiness internally, and something had to change. The change was Christian leaving, and they are just trying to go back to their glory days now.
With Red Bull, we could see it during the last one-and-a-half years where every race weekend there was drama, and that has gone away.
I think Aston Martin with the people they have in place are very well set to show what they can do under the new regulations.”

Aston Martin F1 CEO Andy Cowell has, however, refused to rule out a reunion. He said:
“I think Christian has taken some time out at the moment. He’s probably enjoying time with friends and family. He loves the sport though. I wish him well with whatever he ends up doing in the future.
We have got a strong team. We’ve got a strong team with Adrian at the helm of the technical organisation. And we’re growing and building.
I think Christian’s record speaks for itself. He’s a great competitor. I guess it’s down to Christian to work out what he wants to do. I think we’ve got a strong set-up and we’re marching forward with that.”

For now, it remains uncertain whether Christian Horner will make his much-anticipated return to Formula One, but the motorsport world will be watching closely.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/formulaone/article-15156767/Christian-Horner-Formula-One-return-sport-Red-Bull-sacking.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

Bombay HC Stays Investigation Into Vidhan Bhavan Brawl, NCP Leader Claims Case Politically Driven

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Wednesday stayed the investigation into a case arising from a scuffle inside the Maharashtra Assembly premises involving supporters of BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP faction, including former state cabinet minister Jitendra Awhad.

### Interim Protection Granted to NCP Member

A bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad, on October 1, restrained the Investigating Officer from proceeding further with the probe into the July 18 FIR registered at Marine Drive police station. This interim protection will continue until the petition is decided.

### Petition Filed Against Alleged Political Targeting

The court was hearing a plea filed by Nitin Hindurao Deshmukh, a member of the Pawar faction of the NCP. Deshmukh had been arrested in connection with the case but was granted bail by a magistrate on July 21.

His advocate, Rahul Arote, argued that the case was “baseless and politically motivated” and sought the quashing of the FIR. The plea alleged that the FIR was lodged with mala fide intent, asserting that the only claim against Deshmukh was that he had engaged in a quarrel and allegedly manhandled policemen who tried to intervene.

### Legal Arguments on Applicability of Charges

The petition emphasized that there was no allegation of assault or obstruction that could attract Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which penalizes assault on public servants. It also questioned the applicability of charges relating to unlawful assembly, affray, and use of criminal force, citing the absence of evidence indicating a common object or violent clash.

“At most, there was commotion and verbal altercation during the protest,” the plea stated.

### Entry with Valid Pass Highlighted

Deshmukh’s legal team further highlighted that he had entered the high-security Vidhan Bhavan with a valid entry pass, undermining any claims of unlawful intent.

The Bombay High Court has listed the matter for further hearing on November 12.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/bombay-hc-stays-investigation-into-vidhan-bhavan-brawl-ncp-leader-claims-case-politically-driven

Ted Cruz goes all in on Trump’s new ‘racist’ trope and puts sombrero and mustache on Senate Democrats in shutdown troll

Republican Senator Ted Cruz attempted to troll Democrats who refused to vote for the Republicans’ temporary spending bill by copying President Donald Trump’s racist video that superimposed a mustache and sombrero onto House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Taking to his X profile on Wednesday, Cruz indicated he would punish the 44 Senate Democrats who voted against the continuing resolution—which triggered a government shutdown—by placing sombreros and handlebar mustaches onto their photos. The two-minute-long video flashes altered photos of the Senators set to the 1993 pop song “Macarena.”

The idea appeared to be inspired by Trump’s recent AI-generated post mocking Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer after their meeting in the Oval Office ahead of the shutdown to try and negotiate a deal. Trump’s video featured Jeffries, who is Black, as a stereotyped Mexican with a sombrero and mustache, alongside Schumer and a deepfake of Schumer’s voice. Jeffries called the video racist.

However, Vice President JD Vance excused the video as funny and claimed Trump was poking a little bit of fun at Democrats. Vance said he’d make a solemn promise that the sombrero memes will stop if the Democrats help Republicans reopen the government.

In keeping with the spirit of Vance’s promise, Cruz vowed to continue “Sombrero posting” as long as the shutdown remains. “The 44 Senate Democrats who voted for Schumer’s Shutdown should know that the Sombrero posting will continue until they re-open our government,” Cruz wrote in his Wednesday post.

The Independent has asked senators featured in the video for comment.

The Senate Democrats, joined by Republican Rand Paul and independent Bernie Sanders, voted against the continuing resolution on Tuesday evening out of protest because Republicans have refused to add Democrats-approved healthcare provisions to the temporary funding bill.

Democrats have blamed Republicans for the shutdown, saying they’re refusing to negotiate, thus backing them into a corner as they fight for those on Medicaid and low-income Americans using marketplace insurance.

Republicans have blamed Democrats for trying to add the healthcare provisions into an otherwise clean continuing resolution, meaning the bill does not seek to make dramatic changes to the current funding levels. Many Republicans have also falsely claimed Democrats want to give free health care to illegal aliens.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/ted-cruz-shutdown-trolls-democrats-sombrero-b2838074.html

Shilpa-Raj’s plea to travel abroad denied by Bombay HC

**Shilpa-Raj’s Plea to Travel Abroad Denied by Bombay HC**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 01, 2025, 05:45 PM*

The Bombay High Court has denied interim relief to actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra and businessman Raj Kundra in their plea seeking suspension of the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against them. The LOC pertains to a ₹60 crore fraud case linked to their now-defunct company, Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd.

### Plea for Travel Abroad Denied

The couple requested permission to travel to Phuket from October 2 to 5 for a leisure trip. However, the court rejected this request, maintaining the LOC in place.

### Legal Arguments from the Couple’s Lawyers

Advocates Niranjan Mundargi and Keral Mehta representing the duo stated that although the case was filed in 2021, Shilpa and Raj Kundra have traveled abroad multiple times since then. They have consistently returned to cooperate with the ongoing investigation and argued that the couple should be allowed to travel despite the charges.

The court has directed Public Prosecutor Mankunwar Deshmukh to file a reply to their plea by October 8.

### Upcoming International Travel Plans

In their petition, the couple informed the court of several upcoming international trips:

– **Los Angeles (October 21–24, 2025):** For professional work commitments.
– **Colombo and Maldives (October 26–29, 2025):** Related to the expansion of their hospitality venture, Hotel Bastian.
– **Dubai and London (December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026):** To visit Raj Kundra’s parents.

They have requested the court’s permission to undertake these trips as planned.

### Details of the Cheating Case

The case was filed following a complaint by Deepak Kothari, Director of UY Industries Pvt Ltd. Kothari alleges that between 2015 and 2023, the couple persuaded him to invest in their venture. According to him, he invested ₹60.48 crore as a loan under an investment agreement, with Shilpa Shetty Kundra providing a personal guarantee.

The investigation into this alleged ₹60 crore fraud remains ongoing, with the court closely monitoring the situation.

*Stay tuned for further updates on the case and the court’s next hearing scheduled post-October 8.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/court-denies-shilpa-shetty-s-travel-plea-amid-fraud-case/story

Shilpa-Raj’s plea to travel abroad denied by Bombay HC

**Shilpa-Raj’s Plea to Travel Abroad Denied by Bombay High Court**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 1, 2025, 5:45 PM*

The Bombay High Court has rejected the interim relief sought by actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra and businessman Raj Kundra in their plea to suspend the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against them. The LOC was issued in connection with a ₹60 crore fraud case involving their now-defunct company, Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd.

The couple had requested permission to travel to Phuket from October 2 to 5 for a leisure trip. However, the court denied their request, maintaining restrictions on their international travel for the time being.

**Legal Plea and Arguments**

Represented by advocates Niranjan Mundargi and Keral Mehta, Shilpa and Raj argued that although the case against them was filed in 2021, they have traveled abroad multiple times since and have always returned to cooperate with the ongoing investigation. Their lawyers contended that the couple should be allowed to travel abroad despite the open case.

The court has directed Public Prosecutor Mankunwar Deshmukh to submit a reply to their plea by October 8.

**Upcoming Travel Plans**

In their petition, the couple disclosed several upcoming international trips. They mentioned a planned business trip to Los Angeles from October 21 to 24. Following that, they intend to visit Colombo and the Maldives from October 26 to 29 to further their hospitality venture, Hotel Bastian.

Additionally, they have requested permission to travel to Dubai and London between December 20, 2025, and January 6, 2026, to visit Raj Kundra’s parents.

**Details of the Fraud Case**

The cheating case stems from a complaint filed by Deepak Kothari, Director of UY Industries Pvt Ltd. Kothari alleged that between 2015 and 2023, Shilpa and Raj persuaded him to invest in their business venture. According to the complaint, Kothari invested ₹60.48 crore as a loan under an investment agreement, with Shetty Kundra providing a personal guarantee.

The matter is still under investigation, and the court’s decision to deny their travel plea underscores the seriousness of the allegations.

*Stay tuned for further updates on the case and the couple’s legal proceedings.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/court-denies-shilpa-shetty-s-travel-plea-amid-fraud-case/story

Subhash Ghai responds to sexual assault allegations: ‘False, defamatory’

**Subhash Ghai Responds to Sexual Assault Allegations: ‘False, Defamatory’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 01, 2025, 05:32 PM*

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai has strongly denied the sexual assault allegations made by actor Nehal Vadoliya. On Wednesday, Ghai issued a statement calling the accusations “false” and warned of legal action against those attempting to “malign” his reputation.

In his statement, Ghai said,
*”I want to make it clear that any individual attempting to malign my reputation or my companies and team members through false allegations will be held accountable under the law.”*

He further added that his legal team is prepared to take strict action against defamatory attempts.
*”If anyone has a genuine grievance, the correct and rightful course is to approach the police or the appropriate legal authorities. Resorting to social media to spread unverified claims for publicity is not only misleading to the public but also unlawful,”* the statement read.

### The Allegations

Nehal Vadoliya, known for her work in *House Arrest*, had alleged in a recent interview that Ghai misbehaved with her during a visit to his house. Vadoliya was dating the filmmaker’s manager at the time.

According to Vadoliya, what began as a casual evening soon turned uncomfortable when Ghai started complimenting her looks and calling her “very sexy.” She claimed the situation escalated when Ghai allegedly followed her near the washroom and attempted to kiss her.

### Aftermath

Vadoliya expressed anger at her then-boyfriend, the manager, for putting her in such a situation.
She said,
*”I told him, ‘Where have you brought me? You are his manager, meaning you already knew all these things.’”*

The incident left her shaken and led to the end of her relationship.
*”I broke up with my boyfriend after that. He was not worth trusting,”* she added.

The controversy has sparked significant public discussion, with many awaiting further developments as the legal process unfolds.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/filmmaker-subhash-ghai-denies-sexual-assault-allegations/story

Couple ‘deliberately starved’ three-year-old daughter to death, London court told

A couple deliberately starved their three-year-old daughter to death over many months, a UK court has heard.

Jaskiret Singh Uppal, 36, and Manpreet Jatana, 34, appeared at the Old Bailey in London on Tuesday charged with the murder of Penelope Chandrie.

Prosecutor Philip McGhee said the prosecution’s case was that the defendants mistreated their daughter over an extended period and deliberately starved her, leading to her death. The London court heard that the couple failed to register Penelope’s birth, provide her with GP care or education, as they isolated themselves from the wider world.

When the child died, it is alleged that they initially considered cremating the body in the back garden of their home in Hayes, west London, before contacting a funeral director.

On December 17, 2023, police found Penelope’s very emaciated body wrapped in a sheet with bruising to her neck, the court was told. An examination of her body found the cause of death was malnutrition. Pathological findings indicated starvation over a prolonged period of many months, culminating in fatal ketoacidosis, Mr McGhee said.

There were also marks on the neck consistent with the use of bindings, and injuries to the hands consistent with a sharp object such as a knife, the court heard.

At the time Penelope died, officers found the defendants’ home to be in poor condition, with the family’s vegetarian diet mainly consisting of yoghurt, lentils, and butter, Mr McGhee added. What appeared to be a ligature was found attached to the bannisters on the stairs.

The defendants, who met at university, had not worked for some time and lived in the house belonging to Uppal’s father.

On Tuesday, Uppal appeared in the dock of the Old Bailey, and Jatana was on a videolink from Bronzefield prison. Both spoke only to confirm their identities.

In addition to the murder charge, the defendants are accused of manslaughter, causing or allowing the death of a child, and abandoning a child or causing them unnecessary suffering or injury.

Judge Lynn Tayton KC set a timetable for the case, with a plea hearing scheduled for December 16. A provisional trial date will be confirmed later. She remanded the defendants into custody.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/couple-deliberately-starved-three-year-old-daughter-to-death-court-told-1813133.html

Nicole Kidman files for divorce from Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage

**Nicole Kidman Files for Divorce from Keith Urban After 19 Years of Marriage**

Actress Nicole Kidman has filed for divorce from husband Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage. Kidman petitioned on Tuesday in a Nashville court to end the marriage, citing irreconcilable differences.

The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress and the 57-year-old Grammy-winning country singer, both originally from Australia, met in 2005 at a Los Angeles event honoring Australians. They were married in Sydney the following year and have two teenage daughters together.

Kidman and Urban have been prominent figures in the entertainment industry over the past two decades, frequently appearing together on red carpets. Urban often accompanies Kidman to events like the Oscars, while Kidman attends music award shows such as the Academy of Country Music Awards.

The divorce filings include a marriage dissolution agreement and a childcare plan, both of which have been submitted for judicial approval. According to the permanent parenting plan, both parents commit to maintaining a loving, stable, consistent, and nurturing environment for their children, despite their divorce. They also agree not to speak negatively about each other or their extended families and will encourage their daughters to continue loving and feeling comfortable with both parents.

The plan designates Kidman as the primary residential parent, with the couple’s two daughters, aged 17 and 14, living with her for 306 days per year. Urban will have custody for the remaining 59 days annually. The daughters have lived in Nashville all their lives, and there is no indication in the documents that this arrangement will change.

Financial disclosures in the filing state that each parent earns more than $100,000 (approximately £74,370) per month. Neither party will seek childcare or spousal support. The division of joint assets is outlined as roughly equal, with each party retaining assets registered in their own name.

In addition to her two children with Urban, Kidman is also a mother to two older children from her previous marriage to Tom Cruise.

Last year, at the premiere of the Netflix series *The Perfect Couple*, Kidman dismissed the idea of being a “perfect couple” with Urban. “You’re heading for trouble if you consider yourselves the perfect couple,” she said. “I’m not a believer in perfect.”

Urban has previously spoken emotionally about Kidman’s support during his struggles with substance abuse shortly after their marriage in 2006. “Four months into our marriage, I’m in rehab for three months,” Urban shared. “Nic pushed through every negative voice, I’m sure even some of her own, and she chose love. And here we are 18 years later.”

Nicole Kidman’s illustrious film career includes roles in *Days of Thunder*, *Eyes Wide Shut*, *Moulin Rouge*, and *The Hours*, for which she won an Academy Award portraying author Virginia Woolf. More recently, she has garnered acclaim for her work in television series such as *Nine Perfect Strangers* and *Big Little Lies*, earning Emmys as both actor and producer.

Keith Urban has been a major figure in country music since the 1990s, known for hits like “Somebody Like You” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” He has won four Grammy Awards and more than a dozen Academy of Country Music Awards.

News of their separation was first reported by TMZ. Representatives for both Kidman and Urban did not respond to emailed requests for comment on Tuesday.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/nicole-kidman-files-for-divorce-from-keith-urban-after-19-years-of-marriage-1813214.html

What did Ariana Grande say about Trump? White House responds to singer’s viral Instagram repost about the president

The White House Deputy Press Secretary, Kush Desai, has responded to singer Ariana Grande’s viral Instagram repost criticizing the Trump administration. Grande shared the post on Sunday, which targeted the current government regarding ICE raids and alleged transphobic views.

In a statement to Entertainment Weekly published on September 29, Desai seemingly mocked the singer by incorporating some of her popular song titles into his response, including *Save Your Tears*, *Get Well Soon*, and *Just Like Magic*. The statement read:

“Save your tears, Ariana. Because President Trump’s actions ended Joe Biden’s inflation crisis and are bringing in trillions in new investments. He even signed an executive order just like magic that paved the way for the FTC to crack down on Ticketmaster for ripping off Ariana Grande’s concert-going fans. Get well soon, Ariana!”

### Ariana Grande’s Instagram Repost and Criticism

On September 28, Ariana Grande reposted a message by podcaster and activist Matt Bernstein that criticized Donald Trump and his administration. The post questioned Trump supporters with rhetorical queries, highlighting issues such as ICE raids and the targeting of the trans community.

It said:
“I want to check in with Trump voters. I have one very genuine question: It’s been 250 days now that immigrants have been violently torn from their families and communities have been destroyed, now that trans people have been blamed for virtually everything and live in fear, now that free speech is on the brink of collapse for us all — has your life gotten better?”

The post continued:
“Have your groceries gotten cheaper? Has your health insurance premium gone down? Has your work/life balance improved? Can you take a vacation yet? Are you happier? Has the widespread suffering of others paid off for you in the way he promised it would, or are you still waiting?”

### The FTC Lawsuit Against Ticketmaster and Live Nation

In his response, Desai referenced the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) recent lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation. The lawsuit alleges that the companies misled ticket purchasers through deceptive resale prices.

Additionally, about a month ago, the FTC filed a similar lawsuit against Key Investment Group and its affiliates. This ticket resale company is accused of illegally sourcing tickets and reselling them at inflated prices for high-profile concerts, including Taylor Swift’s *Eras Tour* and some of Ariana Grande’s concerts.

### Ariana Grande’s Political Stance and Upcoming Projects

This is not the first time Ariana Grande has spoken out against former President Trump. She has openly supported former Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential elections.

Earlier this month, Grande also criticized the temporary cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel’s live show by reposting a message from SAG-AFTRA, showing her support for the actors’ union.

In other news, Ariana Grande is preparing for her upcoming tour to promote her latest studio album, *Eternal Sunshine*. This will be her first tour in seven years and is set to begin next year.

Fans can also look forward to the sequel to her critically and commercially successful film, *Wicked*, titled *Wicked: For Good*, which is scheduled for release next year.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/pop-culture/news-what-ariana-grande-say-trump-white-house-responds-singer-s-viral-instagram-repost-president

UN experts shocked at ‘industrial-scale’ executions in Iran

**UN Experts Shocked at ‘Industrial-Scale’ Executions in Iran**

*By Snehil Singh | September 30, 2025, 3:47 PM*

United Nations human rights experts have expressed deep shock at what they describe as a “dramatic escalation” of executions in Iran. Over 1,000 people have been executed in the first nine months of 2025 alone, marking a staggering increase in the use of capital punishment.

The five UN special rapporteurs issued a joint statement emphasizing the gravity of the situation. “The sheer scale of executions in Iran is staggering and represents a grave violation of the right to life,” they said. Notably, half of these executions were carried out for drug-related offenses, and recent records indicate an average of nine hangings per day.

### Government Response

Iran’s government has yet to respond directly to the UN experts’ condemnation. However, it has historically defended its use of the death penalty for what it terms “the most severe crimes.”

The criticism came on the same day that Iran executed a man accused of spying for Israel. According to the judiciary’s Mizan news agency, the individual identified as Bahman Choubi Asl was a database expert involved in sensitive telecommunications projects. He was reportedly working for Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency.

### Execution Statistics

Human rights organizations Amnesty International and Iran Human Rights have both documented over 1,000 executions in Iran since January 2025. This figure has already surpassed last year’s total of 975 executions.

The majority of those executed faced drug-related charges (50%), followed by murder offenses (43%). The remaining executions were for security-related charges—including “armed rebellion against the state,” “corruption on Earth,” and “enmity against God”—accounting for 3%, with 1% executed on spying charges.

Both groups have raised serious concerns about the fairness of the trials leading to these executions, reporting widespread allegations of torture and due process violations.

### Global Response and Calls for Action

UN experts described Iran’s execution practices as occurring on an “industrial scale,” violating international human rights standards. They urged the global community to take stronger diplomatic measures to pressure Iran into halting this alarming surge in executions.

Particular concern was voiced regarding the 499 people executed for drug offenses, which, according to international law, do not meet the threshold of “most serious crimes.” The experts underscored the urgent need for action to defend fundamental human rights and the right to life.

*Stay tuned for further updates on this critical human rights issue.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-experts-condemn-staggering-scale-of-executions-in-iran/story