NBA | Page 3 FOOTBALL | Page 6 Nets forward Setien in the Chandler opts spotlight but out of season familiar flaws restart haunt Barcelona

Tuesday, June 30, 2020 GOLF Dhul-Qa’da 9, 1441 AH Johnson claims GULF TIMES Travelers to keep Tour streak alive SPORT Page 4

HORSE RACING Sheikh Mohamed’s Min’ha wins Group 2 in France Agencies once again by jockey Seguy. Cabre. The Julien Auge-ridden La Teste de Buch, France Drawn towards the inside in this Almajdah, who was further two 12-runner race, she sat on the lengths behind, gave the third rail in second or third position place as well to Al Shaqab Racing is Highness Sheikh throughout the early stages of and Fourcy. Mohamed bin Khalifa the 1900m run for four-year-old Trainer Rohaut was pleased al-Thani’s homebred and older horses, with General with the manner in which Min’ha HMin’ha notched the Lady on her outside while the won, and commented, “She has second Group victory of her ca- pace was set by Belqees. improved over the winter. She is reer in the Criterium des Pouli- Following the leader, Min’ha a very professional filly and it will ches (Group 2 PA) at La Teste in found herself alone in the be interesting to see how she runs France yesterday. straight, as Belqees weakened, in the Group 1 PA races for fillies. Before that, she was last seen and the François Rohaut-trained She won well today. There was a when fourth, with Valentin Seg- Min’ha was honest and profes- decent pace and she came to the uy in the saddle, in the Prix Nefta sional to run all the way to the lead easily. It’s what I wanted to – Dormane (Group 2 PA) behind line to secure a two-and-a-half see from here today, and I have!” Amyr Du Soleil, also owned by length victory in front of Al Min’ha is out of Margouia, so His Highness Sheikh Mohamed, Shaqab Racing’s homebred Um is a sister to champion Assy, the at Bordeaux on May 23. Taj. first ever Qatar-bred winner of At La Teste, four-year-old The Thomas Fourcy-trained His Highness The Amir Sword chestnut filly was partnered runner-up was ridden by Jerome (Group 1 PA). Valentin Seguy (left) rides Min’ha to Criterium des Pouliches (Group 2 PA) victory at La Teste in France yesterday. (Robert Polin)

MOTORSPORT Hamilton eyes Schumi’s record as F1 steps into a new world Season-opener will be run at Spielberg on Sunday behind closed doors, without fans, sponsors’ agents and guests

AFP Charles Leclerc and Vettel, who , United Kingdom Mercedes driver is a free agent and a potential tar- . get for not only Renault, but also Mercedes. even months after they The pair, who were intense last competed in earnest, rivals last year, tested in Italy the Formula One circus last week ahead of the opening Swill push a post-lock- “double-header” with two suc- down reset button to open the cessive races at Austria’s Red Bull 2020 season in Austria on Sun- Ring circuit before a third race in day. Hungary. The event at Spielberg is being “I have no experience of heading held on its original calendar date, back to the same track and having but is not the once-anticipated a second race, but I’ve been around 11th round of the championship, for a while,” said Vettel. but the first — a season-opener “I guess the level of perfection delayed by the global coronavirus will be higher the second week- pandemic. end — the level of errors will be More than three months after even smaller. the Australian Grand Prix was “It will be a chance to review abandoned on the eve of opening strategy just seven days after- practice in Melbourne, the race in wards so that’s a first and let’s see the Styrian Alps will be run be- how we tackle that challenge.” hind closed doors, without fans, sponsors’ agents and guests and ORANGE AID only a handful of reporters re- The opening three races form just stricted to the media centre. part of an intensive spell of eight The usual high-rise motor European races in 10 weeks, which homes will be replaced by tents may become nine in 11 if a round at and awnings while the teams, cut Mugello, in Italy, is added. to 80 members and all in protec- Vettel added that he “can’t im- tive gear, will operate in sanitised agine what it will be like to race “bubbles within bubbles” in a without any fans,” especially at paddock bereft of human contact ers’ title to equal the record of ment at the cash-starved outfit the sweeping circuit where Max and the usual swell of rumour . so badly hit by the pandemic. Verstappen was roared to victory and speculation. “It has been unbearable — I by a huge orange wave of Dutch For all involved, who are tested have missed the racing and the ON THE MOVE supporters last year. four days before the event and five competition so much, so it will be Those 2021 moves will not af- Verstappen and Red Bull are days later, it will be an unprec- great to be back,” said Mercedes fect this year’s line-ups, but may expected to challenge Mercedes, edented and unique experience. team boss Toto Wolff. affect relationships between with Ferrari and Racing Point, Yet, despite all the change Even during lockdown, drivers departing drivers and teams newly dubbed “the pink Mer- and the surreal atmosphere it is moves for next year took place, anxious not to allow unique op- cedes” team after copying the expected that the action, when Ferrari announcing the release of erational and performance intel- champions’ cars, in close pursuit it begins, will deliver the same four-time champion Sebastian ligence to leave with them. in the opening events where it likely story. Vettel, to be succeeded by Carlos If anywhere, this is likely to will be intriguing to see if Ham- Lewis Hamilton, powered by Sainz of McLaren and Daniel Ric- have most effect at Ferrari as ilton’s focus has been affected by the all-conquering Mercedes, ciardo signing to leave Renault the Italian team strives to avoid his active and vocal support for goes in search of a seventh driv- and be the Spaniard’s replace- open conflict between rising star the current anti-racism protests.

race will be officially known as (Finland) Mercedes. Winner: Francorchamps. 2019 pole and Revised 2020 the Grand Prix of Steiermark Hamilton. The first world cham- winner: Leclerc. The longest lap calendar (Styria). pionship grand prix was held on the calendar. JULY 19 — HUNGARY. The Hun- here in 1950. SEPT. 6 — ITALY. Monza. 2019 JULY 5 — AUSTRIA. The Red garoring. 2019 pole: Verstap- AUG. 9 — BRITAIN, officially pole and winner: Leclerc. Bull Ring at Spielberg. 2019 pen. Winner: Lewis Hamilton designated the 70th Anniver- ‘La Pista Magica’, Ferrari’s home pole: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari). (Mercedes). Tight, twisty and sary Grand Prix. track, dates back to the 1920s 2019 winner: Max Verstappen slow. The first race in 1986 was a AUG. 16 — SPAIN. Circuit de but is still the fastest in F1. (Red Bull). A rural circuit in breakthrough for F1 behind the Catalunya. 2019 pole: Bottas. Races still to be scheduled: southern Styria, owned by Red ‘Iron Curtain’. Winner: Hamilton. Familiar to all China, Canada, Vietnam, , Bull. AUG. 2 — BRITAIN. Silverstone. teams from pre-season testing. Mexico, United States, Brazil, In this June 30, 2019, picture, Ferrari’s Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc leads at the start of the Austrian JULY 12 — AUSTRIA, the second 2019 pole: Valtteri Bottas AUG. 30 — BELGIUM. Spa- Bahrain, Abu Dhabi. Grand Prix in Spielberg. (AFP) Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, June 30, 2020 MOTORSPORT

FORMULA 1 MOTORCYCLING Dovizioso to be Mercedes cars fit for season after collarbone go black in stand surgery weeks I will be able to recover Bengaluru, India and that I will be in full shape in time for the first 2020 GP in Je- rez.” ucati rider Andrea Ducati Corse sports director Dovizioso is expected Paolo Ciabatti said they were to be fit for the start of aware of the risks involved with against racism Dthe 2020 MotoGP sea- Dovizioso competing in moto- son next month after successful cross before allowing him to par- surgery for a damaged left col- ticipate. ‘Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team’ larbone, his team said yesterday. “He had explained to us that The 34-year-old sustained the he needed to rediscover those injury on Sunday in a crash while stimuli and sensations that only competing in a motocross race at a real competition can give,” Cia- Some of the Faenza in northern Italy. batti said. records in Dovizioso had the operation “In the end, we must be re- in Modena and Ducati said he lieved that the injury did not Hamilton’s would be able to start physi- have serious consequences and otherapy immediately and be that Andrea will be able to be sights ready for the first race of the sea- regularly at the start of the 2020 championship in Jerez.” — Titles. A record held by son in Spain on July 19. “The surgery went well and MotoGP will resume the 2020 Ferrari great Schumach- 7 I want to thank all the medical season stalled by the Covid-19 er. Also successive construc- team that did the operation so pandemic with back-to-back tors’ titles. Mercedes have quickly,” Italian Dovizioso said in races in Jerez on July 19 and 26. won the last six, a record a statement. Five circuits will host dou- shared with Ferrari. “I don’t feel much pain, and ble-headers and Spain will have — Schumacher holds that makes me very optimistic. seven races as part of the revised 8 the record of eight I came home this morning and 13-round European calendar. wins at the same grand during the afternoon I will plan Dovizioso finished runner-up prix. Hamilton is on seven my rehabilitation. behind Spaniard Marc Marquez for Canada, which remains “I’m confident that in these of Honda in the 2019 season. uncertain for this year, and Hungary — third race of the revised season. Also Grand Slams (pole, led every lap and fastest lap). Hamilton needs two more to equal late compatriot Jim Clark’s all-time record of eight. — Longest gap between 11 first and last champi- onships. Hamilton took this record last year (2008-19) from Schumacher (1994- 2004) and can stretch it to 12 this season. A black-liveried Mercedes Formula 1 car for the 2020 season is seen in an image tweeted by the team yesterday. — Most races won in a 13 single season, a record AFP fy as belonging to minority eth- searching light on how much we trian Grand Prix, said it was vital Schumacher shares with Paris, France nic groups and only 12% of our need new measures and actions “we seize this moment and use . Hamilton’s employees are women”. in the fight against racism and it to educate ourselves whether highest tally is 11. That looks all forms of discrimination”. you are an individual, brand or unlikely in this coronavirus- ercedes announced In our organisation, “For 2020, we have chosen to company to make real meaning- affected year, with the sport yesterday an all- just three % of our race in an all-black base livery ful changes when it comes to en- setting its sights on 15-18 new black liveried workforce identify as as a public pledge to improve suring equality and inclusivity”. races after originally plan- the diversity of our team — and His Finnish teammate Valt- Mcar for the 2020 For- belonging to minority ning a record 22. mula One season in support of ‘ a clear statement that we stand teri Bottas said he was “proud ethnic groups and only #BlackLivesMatter with their 12% of our employees against racism and all forms of to stand with the team, with — Grands Prix won af- six-time world champion Lewis are women. This lack discrimination.” Lewis and with Mercedes-Benz 19 ter leading every lap. Hamilton a vocal supporter of of diversity shows that Team Principal Toto Wolff in making this important state- Hamilton shares the record the fight against racism. we need to find new said “Racism and discrimina- ment”. with Ayrton Senna. F1 emerges from its coronavi- approaches to attract talent tion have no place in our society, Since easing out of lockdown rus-enforced three-month hia- from many areas of society our sport or our team”. sports stars have been eager — Consecutive points tus in Austria this weekend to a we do not currently reach The German added: “But hav- to take a stand against racism, 33 finishes. An ongoing record held by Hamilton, UPDATE markedly changed world, with — Mercedes AMG F1 team, ing the right beliefs and the right whether by taking the knee, as whose last failure to score the killing of African-American in a statement mindset isn’t enough if we re- footballers form the Bundesliga George Floyd in US police custody main silent. We wish to use our or Premier League have done, or was in Austria in 2018. last month triggering outrage and voice and our global platform to wearing Black lives Matters on Zanardi undergoes a global anti-racism movement. “This lack of diversity shows speak up for respect and equal- the back of their shirts. — Front row lockouts. Hamilton, the only black driv- that we need to find new - ap ity, and the Silver Arrow will Earlier yesterday the West 65 Ferrari hold this one er on the F1 grid, has established proaches to attract talent from race in black for the entire 2020 Indies cricket team announced but Mercedes are on 64. neurosurgery for a a commission which hopes to many areas of society we do not season to show our commitment they would be wearing “Black — Pole positions. A steer more black youngsters into currently reach,” it added. to greater diversity within our Lives Matter” logos on their 88 record held by Ham- motor racing. Whilst expressing pride at the team and our sport.” shirts during next month’s Test ilton, whose 88th was in Abu second time series against England in a show Mercedes in a statement not- team’s “values and culture” the Hamilton, who starts his Dhabi last November. ed that “in our organisation, just statement said “the Black Lives quest for a record-equalling of solidarity with the global Reuters view,” said the statement. Hospi- three % of our workforce identi- Matter movement has shone a seventh title at Sunday’s Aus- movement. — Race wins, a record , Italy tal director Roberto Gusinu said 91 held by Schumacher. that a second surgery had been The German’s last win was envisaged by doctors before- Face masks and no fans: How F1’s ‘new normal’ will look in China in 2006. Hamilton ormer Formula One hand. starts the campaign with driver and Paralympic The 53-year-old Italian is an NO SPECTATORS different. The palatial team ‘mo- rather than being handed over by mechanics and engineers 84 wins to his credit. He has champion Alex Zanardi, inspirational figure in the worlds The opening races of the season torhome’ hospitality units will by local dignitaries. for much of the time. averaged 10 wins a season seriously injured in a of motorsport and Paralympic will, for the first time, be held not be used. Instead, awnings F for the past six years. handbike accident 10 days ago, endeavour, a hugely popular behind closed doors with no and tents will be set up behind PERSONAL PROTECTION REMOTE BRIEFINGS has undergone neurological sur- and positive competitor who re- fans, sponsors, VIPs or guests garages to give team members Anyone travelling to Austria Most of the media briefings — Most grands gery for a second time, a hospital turned from life-changing inju- and limits on the number of more space under distancing must first test negative for and news conferences will be 148 prix led. Hamilton statement said yesterday. ries with a smile. people allowed in. Teams can guidelines, with the trucks Covid-19 and then undergo conducted online, via Zoom or set this last year. The Santa Maria alle Scotte He had both legs amputated have no more than 80 staff each moved further back. tests every five days, and im- other means. The paddock and hospital in Siena said that the above the knee, with his heart (compared with the usual 130), mediately if they show symp- track will be off limits to the few — Podium finishes. surgery had lasted around two- stopping seven times as he lost with an operational core of 60. PODIUM toms. There will be tempera- media in attendance. 155 Another of Schu- and-a-half hours and that all but a litre of the blood in his The atmosphere will be very dif- There will be no podium ture checks, social distancing macher’s records that looks Zanardi, who suffered severe body, after a horrific crash in a ferent — the average three-day celebrations after the race. and ‘bubbles within bubbles’ GRID PREPARATIONS destined to fall. Hamilton is head injuries in the accident on Champ car race at the Lausitzring attendance at a Formula One Formula One has yet to confirm with the teams isolated socially Before the race, each team will be on 151. June 19, was sedated and intu- in Germany in September 2001. weekend is around 150,000. details but expect a formal within the overall paddock limited to 40 people on the grid. He later turned to paracycling — Most con- bated in the intensive care unit. prizegiving on the track, with bubble. There will be minimal Drivers will not stand together for “His condition remains stable and won a total of four Paral- secutive starts. A NO MOTORHOMES distancing between drivers and interaction between teams and the national anthem and the grid 250 from the cardio-respiratory and ympic gold medals, two each at Hamilton record. The paddock will look very the trophies already in place face masks will have to be worn process will be sped up. metabolic point of view, serious London in 2012 and Rio de Ja- from the neurological point of neiro in 2016. Talking points ahead of F1 start in Austria

CAN HAMILTON RETAIN FOCUS estate in Stevenage, making it to racing talent this is the time for to take the fight to champions outright straight-line speed for haul themselves off the bottom of team-mate in Frenchman Esteban TO LAND SEVENTH TITLE? F1 through the tiniest window of Max Verstappen and Red Bull to Mercedes. improved pace in slow and me- the championship. Ocon, but decided during lock- The main threat to Lewis Hamil- opportunity — that’s a very, very seize their moment and emerge dium corners. Russell made good use of the down to leave the team next year ton’s bid to land a record-equalling important part of my journey and from the opening trio of races as WILL VETTEL SHINE IN FINAL lockdown to become F1’s ‘virtual and switch to McLaren as succes- seventh drivers’ title is likely to be then staying there and continu- championship leaders. SEASON WITH FERRARI? END OF THE ROAD FOR champion’ during e-racing from sor to departing Spaniard Carlos himself — just ahead of Mercedes ing to deliver against adversity.” A year ago, the young Dutchman After confirming he is leaving WILLIAMS AND WHAT NOW his home computer and said Sainz, who is joining Ferrari. teammate Valtteri Bottas and Red Asked where F1 should race, bullied his way to victory at the Ferrari at the end of this year, FOR TALENTED RUSSELL? recently he is “very excited” to The fact that McLaren are switch- Bull’s Max Verstappen. The sport’s he added: “Africa. It’s such an Red Bull Ring and a double repeat Sebastian Vettel may feel freed George Russell and Williams face return to racing. ing to Mercedes engines was a first black champion has admitted important place to go back. At of that plus a strong result at and capable of delivering the a defining challenge and season “It’s going to be surreal, but I factor and one that may not have he is committed to racing for more the moment, F1 goes to countries would see the Milton consistency and speed that can after the famous British team was can’t wait for it — I just want to be enhanced his standing with Re- than personal or team triumphs. and doesn’t really leave much Keynes-based team on top of the inspire the team again despite put up for sale during the lock- back in a car.” nault as he starts his final season. “I’m racing for all of you out there behind, if anything. Formula 1 embryonic title race. the threat of Charles Leclerc. down — leaving their young and “I’ve got to keep my distance,” who may feel that you don’t have has to shift into being a sport Pre-season testing in Barcelona The four-time champion has the talented English driver to race for NO HUGGING AND NOT MUCH he admitted in a team video call a voice,” said the Briton, who that does go to places and leaves suggested their car is very fast, speed and quality, but Ferrari his future this year. PROSPECT OF JOY FOR last week. made his voice heard in support behind something that can really but also ‘skittish’ and may face have to deliver a car that can Russell, a member of the Mer- RICCIARDO AT RENAULT? “We’re going to find some new of recent anti-racism protests help the communities.” reliability problems. show immediate performance de- cedes junior driver programme, Daniel Ricciardo is famous for his ways to embrace each other, during the enforced time-out. But the driver pairing of Verstap- velopment as the season unfolds. is tipped to have a big future, but beaming smile and big hugs, but especially after a good result, but “In the world, in the society that VERSTAPPEN’S CHANCE TO pen and Alex Albon has a proven Pre-season testing suggested needs a stronger team in 2021 he has had to abandon his tactile obviously we’re going to do what we live in, I think making it as a SEIZE THE DAY? ability to shine in challenging that this year’s machine had to prove himself unless Williams approach to life. we can to keep this thing out of young black kid from a council Having proved his speed and conditions and can beat Ferrari sacrificed some of last year’s find some resurgent form and He will be joined by a new Renault the paddock.” Gulf Times Tuesday, June 30, 2020 3 SPORT

NBA Gobert says he’s not fully recovered from Covid-19 tah Jazz center Rudy Gobert, the first NBA player to reportedly test positiveU for Covid-19 and who Veteran Nets forward drew the ire of numerous peo- ple when the league initially suspended the season, says he is still not fully recovered more than three months after his original diagnosis. Speaking with French outlet L’Equipe last week, the All- Chandler opts out of Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year said of his Donovan Mitchell also tested condition, “The taste has positive, with ESPN’s Adrian ‘I WILL BE WATCHING returned, but the smell is still Wojnarowski reporting at the not 100 %. I can smell the time, “Jazz players privately AND ROOTING FOR OUR smells, but not from afar. I say that Rudy Gobert had spoke to specialists, who told been careless in the locker TEAM IN ORLANDO’ me that it could take up to a room touching other play- season restart year.” ers and their belongings. Loss of taste and smell are Now a Jazz teammate has among the symptoms of tested positive.” That led to a Covid-19. reported rift between Gobert Gobert was diagnosed with and Mitchell, though Utah the virus on March 11, and the executive vice president of NBA suspended its season operations Dennis following play that night. Two Lindsey said in May the two days earlier, Gobert was seen players were ready to “move touching every reporters’ on.” Gobert also pledged to microphone stationed at the donate $500,000 for arena podium at the end of a media employees in Utah and Okla- session that addressed, in homa City, as well as his na- part, the coronavirus. tive France. The Jazz were in On March 12, the Jazz con- Oklahoma City when Gobert firmed that All-Star guard tested positive.

NHL Ovechkin back on ice at Capitals’ facility

Reuters facilities for voluntary work- Los Angeles outs and time on the ice, with certain health restrictions in place. Phase 3 will mark the forward Wilson Chandler (left) in action against the Philadelphia 76ers during a regular NBA game in Philadelphia on February 20, 2020. (TNS) tar winger Alex opening of training camps, Ovechkin was back on currently set for July 10. By Kristian Winfield in this decision, and I will be 11 coronavirus hiatus. He aver- The power forward position The starter could also be Kurucs, the ice at the Washing- Other Capitals players have watching and rooting for our aged about six points and four has been of concern for the Nets the second-year forward from Ston Capitals’ complex slowly been returning to the team in Orlando.” rebounds per game, and shot both this season and last. In who was frequently bur- in Arlington, Va., on Satur- area, including forward Nick- The Nets replaced Chandler 40.1% from the field this season. Brooklyn, Anderson is more of ied at the end of the bench, or on day for the first time since las Backstrom flying back from he Brooklyn Nets are go- with a familiar face in reserve During the hiatus, Chandler the same: another stop gap for- G-League assignment despite the coronavirus pandemic Sweden earlier this week. ing to be another man journeyman forward Justin An- has openly expressed his dis- ward who doesn’t address the shooting nearly 39% from three led to the pausing of the NHL Ovechkin, 34, had 48 goals short. derson. Anderson, a physical may with the rush to resume needs the Nets need at the four. this season. season. The team posted a in 68 regular-season games T Veteran forward Wil- and versatile defender at the the NBA season in the middle of Last season, Brooklyn’s power Prince has struggled from the highlight video on Twitter of before the pause, tying Bos- son Chandler will not be join- four spot, played on a 10-day both a surge in number of recent forwards included Rondae Hol- field this season. After shooting Ovechkin practising, along ton’s David Pastrnak for the ing his teammates in Orlando, contract in Brooklyn earlier this coronavirus cases — especially lis-Jefferson (couldn’t shoot), 39% from downtown with the with the caption, “He’s back.” most in the NHL to extend his the Daily News has confirmed. season as the Nets battled the in Florida — and the national Jared Dudley (capable, but well Hawks last season, he has ad- According to NHL.com, record total of Richard Tro- Brooklyn is one of 22 teams set to injury bug. In three games, he outrage in the wake of George past his prime), Rodions Kurucs monished his own inconsisten- others practising were for- phies to nine. He was on pace resume the NBA season at Walt shot 0% from three and just 17% Floyd’s killing by a Minneapolis (couldn’t shoot), and DeMarre cies in Brooklyn as a sub-34% wards Evgeny Kuznetsov, Lars for his second-highest goal Disney World Resorts. Chan- from the field. The minutes at police officer. Chandler signed Carroll (oft-injured). The Nets marksman from three and sub- Eller and Garnet Hathaway, total in his 15-year career be- dler’s decision was first reported the four project to be largely split a one-year deal in Brooklyn last will also be short rookie Nic 38% scorer from the field. along with defenceman John fore the regular season was cut by ESPN. between Taurean Prince, Rodi- summer but was suspended the Claxton, who opted to undergo The Nets now have an open Carlson and goaltender Braden short. “As difficult as it will be to ons Kurucs, and Anderson. first 25 games of the regular sea- season-ending arthroscopic roster slot which they can use Holtby. Ovechkin had been The Capitals will play a not be with my teammates, the Prince started the majority son due to a failed drug test. He surgery to repair the labrum in to sign any free agent during working out in Florida during round robin with the Boston health and well-being of my of the season at the four until returned and, despite shooting his left shoulder. the NBA’s transaction window the pause, before returning to Bruins, Tampa Bay Lightning family has to come first,” Wil- March 6, when Kenny Atkinson just 30% from three, was insert- Prince could be the starter that closes on Tuesday just be- the team’s facility this week and Philadelphia Flyers to help son told ESPN. “Thank you to inserted Chandler into the Nets’ ed as the starting four largely due when the Nets play their first fore midnight. Brooklyn recent- as part of Phase 2 in the NHL’s determine seeding for the top the Nets organisation for un- starting rotation for the last to his toughness and physicality game in the Orlando bubble ly waived Theo Pinson to sign return to play. Since June 8, four teams in the Eastern Con- derstanding and supporting me three games before the March on the defensive end. against the Magic on July 31. combo guard Tyler Johnson. players have been allowed in ference quarter-finals.

NFL ANNOUNCEMENT Newton joins Patriots on one-year deal Former 49ers guard Reuters tering the final year of his contract Person retires Los Angeles at the time of his release, carrying a salary cap figure of $21.1mn in Reuters 2020. Los Angeles he New England Patriots Newton, 31, had shoulder sur- and free agent quarterback gery prior to the 2019 season and Cam Newton have report- spent that offseason overhauling ike Person, who Tedly reached agreement on his nutrition and lifestyle choices. started at right an incentive-laden, one-year con- But he suffered a foot injury in the guard for the San tract. third preseason game in August at MFrancisco 49ers in ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL New England. After attempting to their loss in Super Bowl LIV in Network’s Ian Rapoport both re- play through the injury, Newton February, announced his re- ported the news Sunday evening. was shut down for the season in tirement in an interview with According to Rapoport, the deal is September. a Montana sports website this worth up to $7.5mn. In 125 career games (124 starts), weekend. “This has been in the works,” Ra- Newton has thrown for 29,041 Person, 32, cited the physi- poport tweeted. “A bare minimum yards with 182 touchdowns and cal toll of football, as well as a deal.” 108 interceptions while compiling desire to spend more time with Newton will have the chance to a 68-55-1 record. He also has 4,806 his wife and three children as compete with second-year quar- career rushing yards with 58 touch- the reasons to hang it up. ing all 30 of his regular-season terback Jarrett Stidham to replace downs. “I just feel like now is games played. He was released Patriots legend Tom Brady, who Like Newton, Stidham finished the right time,” Person told on April 1, at which time gen- signed with Tampa Bay in March his college career at Auburn. The 406mtsports.com. “Obvious- eral manager John Lynch said: after 20 seasons in New England. Patriots selected him in fourth ly I wish it would have ended “Over the last two years, The Panthers released Newton, round in 2019 and he played in differently, especially this past Mike proved to be a selfless the No. 1 pick in 2011 and 2015 NFL three games as a rookie last season. season. You take a beating, and player whose passion for the MVP, in March. It was part of an He completed 2 of 4 passes for 14 anybody who’s played knows game was respected by eve- offseason overhaul that saw Caro- yards with no touchdowns and an that. At some point you just ryone in our organisation. His lina lose franchise linebacker Luke interception that was returned for a have to tell yourself now is the character and professionalism Kuechly to retirement; release touchdown on his first career drive. right time. was a great influence in our Newton, tight end Greg Olsen and Brady won six Super Bowls with “My kids are getting older locker room, while his fire and defensive tackle Dontari Poe; bring the Patriots, establishing himself as File photo of Cam Newton of and most likely I’d spend the grit on the field added to the in new head coach Matt Rhule; and arguably the greatest quarterback the Carolina Panthers. (AFP) entire season away from them physical nature of our team. sign free agent quarterback Teddy of all time. He currently sits sec- if I were to sign with someone. We thank Mike and wish him, Bridgewater. ond to Drew Brees in career passing I’ve missed too much already.” his wife, Kelly, and their chil- Newton, the 2010 Heisman Tro- yards (74,571) and passing touch- Person spent the past two dren nothing but the best in phy winner out of Auburn, was en- downs (541). seasons with the 49ers, start- the future.” Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, June 30, 2020 SPORT

CYCLING Lefevere fears coronavirus outbreak in peloton

Virtual in July to include women Reuters umn in Belgian newspaper London Het Nieuwsblad. Reuters inspired by Nice, the Grand De- “Let it be a lesson for all Paris part host city in August. cycling races that will start Other stages include famil- he return of profes- again in July. Coronavirus iar French terrain including sional cycle racing clusters are now shooting lite women riders still the fearsome Mont Ventoux on next month might up like mushrooms. I hope lack an actual Tour Stage Five before the traditional be too soon and that enough attention is finish on a virtual Champs- Tcould lead to outbreaks of paid to prevention. de France in which to showcase their talent Elysees. “I cannot imagine the novel coronavirus, accord- “I have said it before, at E ing to Deceuninck-Quick- races the attention to but over the next three week- month of July without cycling,” ends they will achieve equality said Christian Prudhomme, Di- Step boss Patrick Lefevere. hygiene and the risk of in the inaugural “virtual” ver- rector of the Tour de France. The WorldTour is due to contamination is a kind of sion of the event. “Thanks to the virtual Tour return on August 1 with the second nature. In tennis — With cycling’s most pres- de France, which will be widely Strade Bianche one-day with the richest sponsors in tigious race shifted from its broadcast on TV, the champions event in Tuscany but racing the world — you may think traditional July slot to August and their fans will fill in the void will resume before that with that you are untouchable.” because of the coronavirus pan- left by the Tour de France, which Lefevere’s team involved in WorldTour teams are pre- demic, online training platform will reunite with the public in the inaugural Belgian Grote paring for the restart of the Zwift, together with Tour or- Nice on 29 August.” Prijs Vermac one-day race in season in various ways, with ganisers ASO, has helped fill the Viewers in 130 countries Rotselaar on July 5. the Lotto-Soudal team in the void. will be able to watch the action Several other leading teams Ardennes. The event, featuring six while amateur riders have the will be involved but Lefevere Rider Jasper De Buyst says specially-designed animated opportunity to compete in mass has watched the debacle of he believes it’s inevitable stages, will see the likes of world participation races on the same ’s Adria Tour that there will be new coro- time trial champion Chloe Dy- roads as the pros. tennis event after which he navirus cases in the peloton, gert and Dutch great Marianne “Since I was a boy, I would al- and several other players simply because of the Vos riding the same course as ways be glued in front of the TV tested positive. nature of cycle racing. the men. for three weeks in July, so I feel He fears the same thing “In the race, you will think In all, 23 men’s and 17 wom- incredibly privileged for Zwift could happen in cycling — about the whole situation en’s professional teams are con- to be able to play host to the first one of the first sports to be in the beginning,” he was firmed with four-times Tour virtual edition this year,” said affected by the pandemic quoted as saying by Cycling champion Chris Froome joined Eric Min, Zwift CEO and Co- when the UAE Tour was Weekly. “But in a peloton of by his Team Ineos colleagues Founder. shut down in February after 150 riders, it is impossible Egan Bernal, the reigning cham- The six hour-long stages offer some positive tests. not to ride in each other’s pion, and 2018 winner Geraint equal opportunities for - “My worst nightmare is that snot. Thomas. ers, climbers and all-rounders, the races in July — like in “If you think about that and Stages one and two this and teams will battle for the tennis — lead to infections,” you want to avoid it, you just weekend will be held on Zwift’s traditional yellow, green and Lefevere wrote in his col- have to not start.” fantasy volcanic island of Wato- polka dot Tour de France jerseys Viewers in 130 countries will be able to watch the action while amateur riders have the opportunity to pia, including visual additions through a points-based system. compete in mass participation races on the same roads as the pros. (Reuters)

GOLF COMMENT should be allowed to Olympics in Johnson hangs on athletics: Isinbayeva

DPA

ussian athletes should to win Travelers by be allowed to com- pete at next year’s RSummer Olympics in ‘I’M PROUD OF MYSELF FOR Tokyo in the , Russian star pole vaulter Yele- CONTINUING THE STREAK, AND na Isinbayeva said in a state- ment at the weekend. I WANT TO KEEP IT GOING’ The Russian athletics fed- one stroke eration has been suspended since 2015 by the ruling body Russian star pole vaulter AFP (formerly Yelena Isinbayeva. (Reuters) New York IAAF) over wide-ranging dop- ing practices. Russians are petitions, regardless of the allowed to apply to compete situation with the payment of ustin Johnson fired a as neutral athletes but World a fine to World Athletics.” three-under-par 67 Athletics has threatened to Isinbayeva also said: “We to claim a one-shot end this practice if Russia cannot allow a repeat of the Dvictory at the Travel- don’t pay half of a 10-million scenario of 2016, when we ers Championship and keep his dollar fine by Wednesday (July were denied participation in tournament win-streak alive on 1) in connection with a doping the in Rio, for Sunday. rules related case around high mistakes made by a certain Former world number one jumper Danil Lysenko and group of irresponsible individ- Johnson bagged his first tourna- Russian athletics federation uals.” At those Games in Brazil, ment win since February 2019 (RUSAF) officials. long-jumper Darya Klishina after a closing three-under-par In an open letter to World was the only Russian allowed 67 at TPC River Highlands in Athletics and the International to compete in athletics; Rus- Cromwell, Connecticut. Olympic Committee, the re- sian athletes also barred from Johnson, who started the day tired world record holder and competing in other sports. two shots adrift of third round two-time Olympic gold med- Isinbayeva said RUSAF has leader Brendon Todd after a bril- allist Isinbayeva said such a “completely changed” and is liant 61 on Saturday, held his collective sanction must not “actively working to reform nerve after a late wobble follow- be applied because it was an Russian athletics.” ing a weather delay. “unacceptable and excessive” Like at the Pyeongchang The victory means Johnson punishment. 2018 Winter Games, Russian has now won at least one tourna- “Depriving us of the op- athletes at the Tokyo Olympics ment in each of the 13 seasons he portunity to perform at com- will not be allowed to compete has been on the PGA Tour, a feat petitions is a gross violation under their flag because of a matched only by an elite group of of the sporting principle and four-year ban to compete as a players that includes Jack Nick- the rights of pure athletes,” she nation, imposed by the World laus, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino said. Anti-Doping Agency over and Tiger Woods. “We believe that Russian tampering with Moscow lab “Obviously it’s a great streak athletes should be able to ob- data. Russia is appealing this and any time your mentioned tain a neutral status and per- ruling at the Court of Arbitra- with those names it’s good,” said form at international com- tion for Sport. Johnson, who finished on 19 un- der, one clear of Kevin Streel- man. “I’m proud of myself for con- World Rugby not to rule on extending tinuing the streak, and I want to keep it going, but it was a long autumn Test window today time between wins — hopefully here will be no deci- ditional three-week autumn it won’t be as long until the next sion today by World Test window in the North be- one. Rugby on the thorny cause of coronavirus-related Although the tournament was issue of how many health and safety protocols. T The French federation wants played without spectators be- international Tests can be cause of the coronavirus, John- Dustin Johnson of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell on Sunday. (AFP) played in the autumn, an of- the Test window extended son admitted he had been nerv- ficial said. to six games, but World ous after a weather delay with to 18 under. back on the 14th with his sixth pars to finish with a 67, for an SCORES Rugby union’s decision-mak- Rugby said they would not be three holes remaining. He took the lead on the ninth birdie of the day, draining a 16ft 18-under-par 262. 261 - Dustin Johnson 69-64-61-67 ing council had been sched- rushed into a decision. “Even though there’s no fans, after drilling a 126-yard second putt to take a two-shot lead. A one-hour weather inter- 262 - Kevin Streelman 66-66- uled to meet on June 30, but “We are ensuring that all you still feel the pressure,” John- shot to within five feet of the pin Johnson was forced to scram- ruption as a storm approached 63-67 that has now been cancelled parties have the time that son said. before rolling in the simplest of ble again on the par-four 15th halted play with three pairings 263 - Will Gordon 66-62-71-64, to give all stakeholders more they require to deliver the “The weather delay didn’t birdie putts. when his tee-shot flew down the left on the course, and when play Mackenzie Hughes (CAN) 60- time to study proposals. best-possible 2020 calendar help very much because I had Johnson then pressed home left and only narrowly avoided resumed Johnson bogeyed the 68-68-67 Rugby union had been solution for the global game,” time to start thinking...but I fig- his advantage on the 10th, strok- the pond guarding the green. 16th to trim his lead to one shot. 264 - Kevin Na 66-66-65-67 in lockdown since March a World Rugby spokesman ured out a way to get it done.” ing in another long birdie putt to Johnson was forced to roll But Streelman missed long 265 - Ryan Armour 67-66-68-64, because of the coronavirus told AFP yesterday. The 36-year-old laid the go two shots clear. his trousers up and wade into birdie chances on 17 and 18, and Bryson DeChambeau 65-67-65- until New Zealand’s in-house “Given ongoing constructive foundations for victory with a Johnson looked to have taken the water for his second shot. after Johnson safely parred the 68, Scott Stallings 66-68-64-67, Super Rugby tournament and productive meetings be- run of three straight birdies ei- an unassailable grip on the lead He chipped from the rough and 17th, he made par on the 18th to Brendan Steele 69-62-68-66, started earlier this month. tween stakeholders, we will ther side of the turn to take sole when Todd, who opened with missed the green but was able to seal the win. Patton Kizzire 66-66-66-67 But the European season not be putting a date on any possession of the lead as part- 11 consecutive pars, then triple- get up-and-down for par. Will Gordon and Canada’s 267 - Abraham Ancer (MEX) has yet to resume and, with decision at this stage.” ner Todd struggled to make any bogeyed the 12th to fall out of By now the biggest threat to Mackenzie Hughes shared third 67-65-66-69, Patrick Cantlay 66- several 2020 Six Nations World Rugby chief execu- birdies over the front nine. contention. Johnson’s chances of victory on 17 under while Kevin Na was a 67-69-65, Viktor Hovland (NOR) matches still to take place, tive Brett Gosper told AFP But Johnson’s serene progress came from Streelman, playing in shot back after a closing 67. 63-69-67-68, Zach Johnson elite players face the pros- last week that the govern- WEATHER DELAY came unstuck on the par-five the group ahead. Third round leader Todd 68-64-67-68, Kim Si-woo (KOR) pect of a fixture pile-up later ing body’s role was one of After a bogey on the seventh 13th, when his drive off the tee Streelman’s hopes of snatch- meanwhile finished tied on 13 68-66-68-65, Rory McIlroy (NIR) in a year blighted by Covid-19. “facilitating an outcome that which saw him relinquish a share drifted out of bounds down the ing victory however vanished under with eight other players, 63-68-69-67, Noh Seung-yul There are also concerns over is good for all and we are of the lead, Johnson bounced left side of the fairway. as he was unable to pick up any including world number one (KOR) 64-68-66-69, Doc Redman the participation of southern listening and understand the back with a curling 27-foot bird- He limited the damage by dig- birdies over the closing five Rory McIlroy, after a five-over- 68-67-69-63, Brendon Todd 66- hemisphere teams in the tra- views of all stakeholders”. ie putt on the eighth to get back ging out a bogey and then hit holes, reeling off five straight par 75. 65-61-75. Gulf Times Tuesday, June 30, 2020 5 SPORT

CRICKET FOCUS Kyrgios lashes ‘selfish’ Zverev Captaining England would after viral party video

AFP Sydney be ‘huge honour’: Stokes ick Kyrgios let rip at “selfish” fellow tennis ‘Even if it’s only once, you can say you captained England. It’s something that I’m looking forward to’ star Alexander Zverev Nyesterday after the German was seen partying de- Reuters “I never set a goal to want to be a cap- spite promising to self-isolate London tain,” Stokes said. following Novak Djokovic’s “If you look at Alastair Cook he was Ben Stokes is poised to lead the team in the coronavirus-hit Adria Tour. destined to be captain after Andrew first Test against West Indies on July 8 with Zverev was part of the exhi- ngland’s talisman Ben Stokes Strauss and Joe Root was destined to be captain Joe Root likely to miss the game to bition event organised by the says captaining his country captain after Alastair Cook, you know attend the birth of his second child. world number one where social even just once in his career who the next one will be when one is distancing was minimal, match- Ewould be a “huge honour” but coming towards the end of his career. If es took place in front of thou- admits it was never a massive ambi- I’m being honest, I’m not one of those sands of fans and players were tion. The all-rounder is poised to lead who people would necessarily associate even seen at a nightclub, despite the team in the first Test against West with being next England captain. But I the pandemic. Indies on July 8 with captain Joe Root am looking forward to the opportunity Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, likely to miss the game to attend the of doing it.” Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki birth of his second child. Should Stokes captain the side next all subsequently tested posi- “I’ve given it a little thought but not week in Southampton — a match being tive for Covid-19. While Zverev really dived into it yet,” the 29-year-old played in a bio-secure stadium without tested negative, he released a told a virtual news conference yester- fans because of the Covid-19 pandemic statement afterwards vowing to day. “I mean, it’s not like it’s not a big — he says he will be well prepared. “Be- self-isolate, only to be spotted deal. Getting the opportunity to cap- ing able learn from Cookie and Joe Root at a busy bar, apparently over the tain England is a huge honour. Even if in different situations in the game has weekend, in footage that went it’s only the once, you can say you cap- rubbed off on me and will put mein viral. tained England. So it’s something that good stead for all the situations a test Kyrgios, who had slammed I’m looking forward to if the opportu- match can throw at you,” he said. the decision to hold the Adria nity presents itself. But also I know I’m “At the same time we have some ex- Tour as “bone-headed”, said he only stepping in to take over the reins perienced guys out on the field I can was unhappy with the behaviour because of Joe’s personal situation.” use like Jimmy (Anderson) and (Stuart of some of the biggest names in Stokes has matured since his well- Broad) Broady, so many people to throw the sport. “So I wake up and I see chronicled disciplinary problems and ideas off.” more controversial things hap- was inspirational as England won the Stokes said being captain or not, his pening all over the world. One World Cup last year. He is now Root’s style will not change. “I always try to that stuck out for me was seeing trusted vice-captain. He said the last set the example in terms of commit- ‘Sacha’ Zverev again man, again, time he captained a team was during an ment and attitude,” he said. “When it again, how selfish can you be?” academy game against Scotland when comes down to what to do in a situation he said on Instagram yesterday. he was a teenager. it will always be a positive route.” “If you have the audacity to put out a tweet that you made your management write on ROUND-UP TENNIS your behalf saying you’re going to self-isolate for 14 days and apologising to the general public India’s Menon becomes for putting their health at risk, No major financial impact from at least have the audacity to stay inside for 14 days, my god.” youngest elite umpire at 36 The flamboyant Australia add- ndia’s Nitin Menon, 36, Wimbledon cancellation, say organisers ed: “This tennis world... serious- yesterday became the ly how selfish can you all get?” youngest member of the Reuters Zverev and Kyrgios, two of IInternational Cricket Coun- London the most exciting players on cil’s elite umpire list. Menon tour, have history. Ahead of this gave up playing cricket when he year’s Australian Open, Zverev was 22 to start umpiring and has imbledon’s cancellation due unloaded on Kyrgios, who had gradually moved up the rankings, to the Covid-19 pandemic this provocatively performed push- officiating in three Tests, 24 year will have no major finan- ups when the German was one-day internationals and 16 Wcial impact on British tennis, serving double faults during Twenty20 matches. “My prior- outgoing All England club Chief Execu- the ATP Cup. “I think there’s a ity was to play for the country tive Richard Lewis has said. The grasscourt lot of young guys that are right rather than umpiring,” said Me- Grand Slam was scheduled to start yes- now, no offence, just better than non, who played two matches for terday but was cancelled for the first time him,” said Zverev, playing down Madhya Pradesh state in 2004 since World War Two in April. Kyrgios’s chances of winning a before taking up umpiring. The All England Lawn Tennis Club Grand Slam. “I quit playing at 22 and I be- (AELTC) said its spending plans would not came a senior umpire at the age have to be curtailed. “It won’t be severely of 23. It wasn’t worth trying to impacted. If you have to cancel, it’s great to play and umpire so I decided to have insurance,” Lewis, who will step down focus on umpiring alone,” added as the CEO next month, told British media. Menon, who replaced England’s “We’re still in a very good position, we’re Nigel Llong on the 2020-21 financially very stable. British tennis is go- season list. “I’m feeling very ing to be pretty well protected.” A ground staff tends to the grass on Court 6 at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in confident by the fact that age However, Wimbledon would not have west London yesterday. (AFP) is on my side, but the perform- similar insurance cover in place next year, ance is what ultimately matters. he added. “That’s impossible in the current the market returns. So there won’t be in- ceed Lewis, said the AELTC would learn all Whether I do well or not, age has Sangakkara had said Aluthga- climate,” he said. “When I started in 2012, surance next year. But just because we’ve they can from the tournaments. little to do with performance.” mage should share his allega- there were some signs that things were not made one claim, it won’t affect us in the “We’ve got the US Open and Roland Menon is only the third Indian tions with the global governing insurable, because of communicable dis- long term.” Garros being staged later this year and we after Srinivas Venkatraghavan body the International Cricket eases that had taken place, like Sars and The US Open is going ahead as scheduled will be looking closely at what they do, and Sundaram Ravi — who was Council. International cricket swine flu. In the immediate aftermath you from the end of August while the French working with the constraints they find dropped from the list last year in Sri Lanka has previously been can’t get insurance but fairly soon after Open has moved to the end of September themselves under and learning what we — to join the elite group of 12 linked to corruption allegations, that you can start to get insurance again, from May and Sally Bolton, who will suc- can,” said Bolton. Nick Kyrgios. umpires who take charge at top including claims of match-fixing matches and tournaments. ahead of a 2018 Test against England. SERIE A FOOTBALL SRI LANKA PROBES Earlier this month, the Sri ALLEGATIONS 2011 WORLD Lankan cricket board said the CUP FINAL WAS FIXED ICC was investigating three un- Sri Lanka has ordered a criminal named ex-players over corrup- Inter Milan rally to beat Parma Klopp admonishes probe into allegations the 2011 tion claims. Match-fixing was cricket World Cup final was made a criminal offence in No- “sold” to India, officials said vember. Offenders face fines of as Atalanta win again Liverpool fans after yesterday. “A criminal investiga- up to 100mn rupees ($555,000) tion has begun,” KDS. Ruwan- and up to 10 years’ jail. AFP chandra, the secretary to the Milan chaotic celebrations sports ministry, said. “It is han- WEST INDIES TO WEAR dled by the (police) independent 'BLACK LIVES MATTER' LOGO AFP applauded and to the police and Special Investigation Unit on FOR ENGLAND TESTS lessandro Bastoni London local authorities who help us as a sports-related offences.” The West Indies cricket team completed Inter Mi- club not to do this,” he added. Former sports minister Mahi- will wear "Black Lives Mat- lan’s late turnaround Klopp said fans should cele- ndananda Aluthgamage claimed ter" logos on their shirts during Aas they scored twice urgen Klopp has urged brate in a safe way in private set- earlier this month that Sri Lanka next month's Test series against in the final six minutes to beat Liverpool fans to celebrate tings to avoid spreading the dis- sold the match to ensure an Indi- England in a show of solidarity Parma 2-1 on Sunday, while “in a safe way” during the ease. He added: “If things were an victory. “I feel I can talk about with the global movement. The Atalanta made it three wins in Jcoronavirus crisis after different I would love nothing it now. I am not connecting tourists will follow the lead of a row since the Serie A restart. chaotic scenes marred the club’s more than to celebrate together, players, but some sections were English Premier League football- Gervinho gave Parma a Premier League title celebra- to have a parade that would be involved,” Aluthgamage said. ers during the three-Test series, first-half lead at the Stadio tions. Thousands of Liverpool even bigger than the one after we The island nation’s 1996 which starts at the Ageas Bowl Ennio Tardini but Inter, who fans gathered at the Pier Head won the Champions League last World Cup-winning skipper on July 8. conceded a last-gasp equalis- for a second night of celebrations year so that we could all share Arjuna Ranatunga has also cast The move comes after the er at home to Sassuolo in mid- side. Muriel then put Atalanta San Paolo thanks to goals from on Friday after the club became this special moment but it just is doubt on the result and previ- death of African-American week, fought back with head- two goals ahead with a superb Dries Mertens, Jose Callejon champions of England for the not possible.” ously called for an investigation. George Floyd in US police cus- ers from Stefan de Vrij and volley that ensured Lasagna’s and Amin Younes. Roma stay first time in 30 years. The German boss urged fans Local media reports said former tody last month. The logo, which Bastoni to snatch a vital win. second three minutes from fifth but are only three points Police said officers were sub- not to let efforts to fight Covid-19 skipper and chief selector for the has a clenched fist in place of the Inter stay eight points adrift of time made no difference to the ahead of Napoli and nine be- ject to violent confrontations and go to waste. “When the time is 2011 finals, Aravinda de Silva, letter 'A' in the word "Black", leaders Juventus and four be- result. hind Atalanta in fourth, who had glasses and bottles thrown at right we will celebrate,” he said. had been summoned for an in- was designed by Watford player hind Lazio in second with 10 Roma are facing another are now clear favourites to them as the celebrations contin- “We will enjoy this moment and terview with investigators today. Troy Deeney's partner Alisha rounds of matches remaining. season without Champions qualify for Europe’s top club ued in the city centre into the ear- we will paint the city red. But for After starting strongly, Sri Hosannah. West Indies captain Atalanta consolidated their League football after losing competition. ly hours. Klopp, in an open letter now, please stay at home as much Lanka lost the final at Mum- Jason Holder said the team grip on fourth place thanks 2-0 at AC Milan. Ante Rebic Sampdoria sank further into to fans in the Liverpool Echo, said as possible.” bai’s Wankhede stadium by six remained focused on winning to two stunning goals from and Hakan Calhanoglu scored the relegation mire after a 2-1 he “did not love” the scenes that In a joint statement with Mer- wickets. Sri Lanka batted first the series but that there were Luis Muriel, who came on as late to give Milan victory at a home defeat to Bologna which took place at Pier Head. seyside Police and Liverpool City and scored 274-6 off 50 overs. bigger issues to address. West a second-half substitute in stifling San Siro to put Stefano leaves them just a point above “I am a human being and your Council on Saturday, the club They appeared in a commanding Indies captain Jason Holder said their 3-2 victory at Udinese. Pioli’s side three points away the drop zone, while Rogerio passion is also my passion, but criticised supporters who had ig- position when Indian superstar the team remained focused on The Colombia international from the last Europa League struck in the sixth minute of right now the most important nored social-distancing advice. Sachin Tendulkar was out for winning the series but that there put his team back ahead with place held by Napoli, who stoppage time to earn a 3-3 thing is that we do not have these Liverpool’s mayor Joe Anderson 18. But India turned the game were bigger issues to address. a magnificent 71st-minute beat bottom side SPAL 3-1 in draw for Sassuolo against kind of public gatherings,” wrote condemned the scenes, saying dramatically, thanks in part to "This is a pivotal moment in free-kick, after Kevin Lasagna Naples. Gennaro Gattuso’s Hellas Verona. Juventus beat Klopp. “We owe it to the most they had brought a “negative fo- poor fielding and bowling by Sri history for sports, for the game had levelled for Udinese in the side, who have already won Lecce 4-0 on Friday and Lazio vulnerable in our community, to cus” on the city. Lanka, who were led by Kumar of cricket and for the West Indies 31st minute following Duvan the Italian Cup this season, came from behind to see off the health workers who have giv- Klopp also praised fans for Sangakkara. cricket team," he said. Zapata’s early opener for away came out on top at the Stadio Fiorentina 2-1 on Saturday. en so much and whom we have their support during the season.

Tuesday, June 30, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOOTBALL SPOTLIGHT Pandemic has made Setien in the spotlight it difficult for athletes to train: Samba

QNA pics, Samba said that the delay Doha was good for him as he is still re- covering from injury. but familiar flaws The Qatari sprinter said that atar’s 400m hur- he would not forget the moment dles champion he received congratulations from Abdulrahman Samba HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al- Qhas said the spread of Thani, President of the Qatar Ol- coronavirus pandemic has made ympic Committee (QOC) at the it difficult for athletes to train in Khalifa International Stadium, haunt Barcelona the last three months. after receiving the bronze medal Samba was speaking at the at the World Athletics Champi- Barcelona face Atletico at Camp Nou today, looking to salvage their “Live with Al Adaam” pro- onships held in Doha. gramme, through Qatar Olympic Talking about World High season but the future already looks bleak for Setien Committee’s Instagram account. Jump champion Mutaz Barshim, The 2019 World Championship Samba said he was inspiration for AFP bronze medallist said that with him and other athletes all over Madrid the gradual lifting of restrictions, the world. he has returned to the exercises Samba praised Barshim’s pa- as he prepares for the upcoming tience and professionalism and he weight of blame may be shift- championships. On the post- said he has learned a lot from his ing again towards their coach but ponement of the Tokyo Olym- fellow Qatari athlete. Barcelona’s failures in the draw Taway at Celta Vigo on Saturday go deeper than Quique Setien. Setien admitted yesterday he is “new to this situation”, a novice when it comes to the challenge of massaging egos of elite play- ers and managing their frustrations. Barca’s board might have foreseen that being a problem in January, when they tasked a talented coach with winning the Champions League, a competition in which he was yet to oversee a single match. They were attracted to Setien’s dedication to a Barcelona-style too, even if an identity shift mid-season, amid a chaotic transfer window, always looked impossible. Instead, engrained fragilities remain five months later, three of them with neither training nor matches. And all of them resurfaced against Celta, where the 2-2 draw that might set Real Madrid on their way to the title ran like a checklist of Barca’s all-too familiar flaws. There was capitulation, an inability to defend a lead or soak up pressure seen previously on a grander scale against Roma and Liv- erpool, defeats that have perhaps never been expunged from this team’s psyche. It was another stumble away from home too, making it 23 points from 16 games on the road this season, three few- FOCUS er than 13th-placed Southampton have mustered in the Premier League. And when Celta tore away on the counter- attack, they found space at will, driving caving during a run-in that looks sig- wasted his talent. Messi, Sergio Busquets Atletico Madrid who was reportedly Winter to discuss his through the heart of a Barcelona midfield nificantly kinder than Barca’s. But even if and Gerard Pique have all taken shots at never wanted by key players and has been that has long been exposed by speedy op- the unexpected happens in the remaining the board in recent months. rarely played in his best position. ponents on the break. six games of the season, another domes- Under president Josep Maria Bar- Of the 11 that started at Balaidos, illustrious career on Yet their trump cards were in play too: tic success for Barcelona will feel hollow tomeu, decisions seem to be taken hap- six were 31 or older, and at least three the brilliance of Lionel Messi, the goals of and few expect them to threaten in the hazardly, without direction and often were reportedly offered to Paris Saint- Luis Suarez and the match-turning saves adapted Champions League in August, with the financial merits in mind. Arthur Germain last year in a botched attempt Generation Amazing of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who clawed not even Messi. Melo came on as a substitute on Saturday, to bring back Neymar. Barcelona face one off the line late on to at least preserve “The way we are now I don’t think it’s the 23-year-old once with Barca’s DNA Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou today, a point. Repeatedly, those players have enough to win the Champions League,” in his veins, who was circled as the long- looking to salvage their season but the Instagram Live lifted this Barcelona side above them- he told Mundo Deportivo in February. term replacement for Hernandez. future already looks bleak for Setien. He selves, carrying them even to consecu- Their players argued in the dressing room Instead, Arthur will be sold to Juventus was asked about his job yesterday, five ormer Netherlands star with diversity, inclusion, equal tive La Liga titles, each time with a lead of on Saturday because they know they are as part of an accounting merry-go-round months after he arrived. “Victories hide Aron Winter will be the rights and communal solidarity. more than 10 points. way off. Messi ignored Setien’s - that allows the board to balance the books many things, defeats reveal them,” he special guest on tomor- Dolby said: “I’m looking for- They could still make it a third, if Ma- ant Eder Sarabia, frustrated at the end of before June 30. Antoine Griezmann came said. “Sometimes the results don’t de- Frow’s edition of Gen- ward to discussing how we’ve drid follow up five wins out of five by yet another campaign where the club has on too, the 120-million euro signing from pend on me.” eration Amazing Instagram Live. been able to work together to The current assistant coach of deliver the football for develop- the Greece national team will ment sessions we provide for un- discuss his football career and derprivileged youth in the Shef- outline the life values he has field community, as well as how Madrid edge past Espanyol to go two clear of Barcelona learned from the sport. we plan to develop the sessions Winter, who turned out for in collaboration with Generation Madrid: Karim Benzema delivered Zinedine Zidane said Eden Hazard 17th. They were undone by a piece of Madrid’s left in the first half. Ajax, Inter Milan and Lazio, ap- Amazing and Leeds United.” another moment of magic on Sunday took a knock to his ankle. “He took a brilliance from Benzema, who has been Madrid were sloppy but created peared in three FIFA World Cups Moza al-Mohannadi, Gen- night as Real Madrid took a two-point big hit but it’s just a knock I think,” said the catalyst for Madrid sealing five wins chances. Espanyol were hanging on for for the Netherlands. eration Amazing’s Marketing & lead over Barcelona at the top of La Zidane. By the time his side play at home out of five since La Liga restarted. half-time and they were caught out by He will talk about both his ear- Communications Director, said: Liga by beating bottom club Espanyol. to Getafe on Thursday they might even Benzema’s backheel came on an after- Benzema. Ramos flicked on Marcelo’s ly and present-day inspirations, “We are extremely excited to Benzema’s volley against could have the chance to move further clear, if noon of sensational assists after Villar- crossfield pass and Benzema, moving along with the power of football welcome Chris Dolby to discuss be goal of the season and he might now in-form Atletico Madrid avoid defeat to real’s Santi Cazorla earlier set up Gerard away from goal, backheeled off the to unite people and break down our joint initiative in the UK. have a claim to best assist too after his Barcelona today at Camp Nou. Moreno with an incredible, cushioned bounce through the legs of Bernardo Es- cultural barriers. Winter is the We also look forward to receiv- brilliant backheel teed up Casemiro to Barcelona certainly have the harder touch in their 2-0 win over Valencia. pinosa for the arriving Casemiro to finish. latest football legend to appear in ing some useful insight for our finish for a crucial 1-0 win. run-in, with a resurgent Villarreal side to Madrid, though, were scruffy and Earlier, Villarreal continued their surge the series. He follows Xavi Her- programme participants from Madrid’s advantage in the table, follow Atletico and then local rivals Es- ponderous, this perhaps their least towards Champions League qualification nandez, Samuel Eto’o, Cafu, Tim European football legend Aron coming after Barca’s draw away at Celta panyol, who have shown they might yet impressive win over the last three weeks. with a victory over Valencia, inspired by Cahill and others. Winter.” Vigo on Saturday, is their biggest since finish strong after a determined perform- But solidity and steel ensured they came Cazorla. The former Arsenal midfielder In addition to Winter’s ap- A Qatar 2022 social and legacy February and puts them within sight of ance under new coach Franciso Rufete. through unscathed and it was no sur- found himself under a 60-yard punt from pearance, Sheffield FC’s Founda- programme, Generation Amaz- their second league title in eight years. Rufete, who was previously the club’s prise that defensive midfielder Casemiro, his goalkeeper before cushioning the tion Director, Chris Dolby, will ing has reached 500,000 benefi- “It’s a very important win,” said Benzema. sporting director, is Espanyol’s fourth arguably the team’s best player this term, ball out of the air perfectly for Gerard also join @GA4good this week. ciaries. It aims to positively im- “I can’t say we don’t look at Barcelona, of coach of the season after the sacking was named man of the match. Moreno to volley in. Paco Alcacer also The former midfielder will -dis pact 1 million people via unique course we do. But we’re focused on our of Abelardo Fernandez on Saturday. His Espanyol were far from outplayed scored against his former club as Vil- cuss his club’s partnership with football training methodology own league. There are not many games task is now to make up a nine-point gap and might have been ahead if they had larreal moved just three points behind Generation Amazing and Leeds sessions by 2022. left and every game now is a final.” between his team in 20th and Celta in capitalised on a series of forays down fourth-placed Sevilla. United today at 4pm Doha time. Follow @GA4good on Insta- The collaboration between gram, Facebook and Twitter Sheffield and Leeds helps young for more information. Capture people from disadvantaged com- you and your relatives enjoying QATAR ONLINE RACING CHAMPIONSHIP munities, including refugees, the streams on Instagram for a learn life skills through football chance to be reposted and win – in line with the Generation exclusive prizes from the foot- Amazing methodology, which ball stars! Make sure to tag @ Al-Sulaiti, Saoud al-Thani lead QMMF to 1-2 finish promotes communication, GA4good and use the #GALive teamwork and leadership, along hashtag! (qatar2022.qa) By Sports Reporter fifth respectively, while QMMF’s Jassim Doha al-Thani finished sixth. The sixth and final round will be held at Qatar’s simu- lated Losail International Circuit. atar Motor and Motorcycle Federation riders (QMMF) led RESULTS by Saeed al-Sulaiti once again 1. Saeed al-Sulaiti, Time: 26:58.347 proved too hot to handle for Q seconds; 2. Saoud al-Thani +14.752; 3. Leopard Racing team at the Qatar Online Racing championship (QORC) on Sunday. Denis Foggia +29.709; 4. Marco Ramirez; Al-Sulaiti won his third successive race 5. Lorenzo Dalla Porta; 6. Jassim al-Thani; – his fourth in five rounds as he strength- 7. Danny Kent ened his grip on the overall standings. RIDER STANDINGS Saoud al-Thani came second at Austral- 1. Saeed al-Sulaiti 196 points; 2. Saoud ia’s virtual Philip Island circuit to make it al-Thani 139; 3. Marcos Ramirez 125; 4. another 1-2 finish for QMMF. Xavi Artigas 96; 5. Jassim al-Thani 88; The Qatar team is now almost certain 6. Jaume Masia 87; 7. Danny Kent 73; 8. to the win title. With just one race to go, QMMF’s Saeed al-Sulaiti won his third successive race, his fourth in five rounds, as he Abdulla al-Qubaisi 67; 9. Dennis Foggia QMMF has 518 points to Leopard Rac- strengthened his grip on the overall standings. ing’s 473 for a 45-point lead. 62; 10. Lorenzo Dalla 30; 11. Hamad On Sunday, Leopard’s Danny Kent won the second round, was third going ace finished in 26:58.347 seconds. Saoud al-Sahouti 28 once again posed the toughest challenge into the final lap but crashed once again al-Thani was 14.752 seconds behind the TEAM STANDINGS for al-Sulaiti, but the British rider suf- and was relegated to seventh position. winner, while Leopard’s Denis Foggia fered multiple clashes in the 18-lap simu- Al-Sulaiti, meanwhile, was assured in came third. Leopard’s Marco Ramirez 1. QMMF 518 points; 2. Leopard Aron Winter played for Ajax, Inter Milan and Lazio. He also appeared lated Philip Island circuit. Kent, who had the MotoGP 20 PS4 game as the Qatari and Lorenzo Dalla Porta were fourth and Racing 473 in three FIFA World Cups for the Netherlands.