KTM dilemma over ditching one MotoGP rider to cling onto Acosta

 

KTM finds itself facing a pivotal decision as it approaches a crucial D-Day regarding the promotion of its Moto2 title contender Pedro Acosta to MotoGP in 2024, potentially at the expense of impressive rookie Augusto Fernandez.

Acosta, widely regarded as one of the most thrilling young talents in the junior divisions, made history in 2021 by clinching the Moto3 World Championship title in his rookie season. While his transition to Moto2 with the Ajo Motorsport team in 2022 had its ups and downs, his form has improved significantly, placing him in contention for this year's championship.

With Acosta meeting the performance clauses in his contract with KTM, the path to MotoGP seems clear for him if the Austrian manufacturer decides to proceed. However, this success has presented KTM with a challenging predicament—deciding which of its four riders, spread across the KTM Factory Racing team and the GasGas Tech 3 team, will make way for Acosta.

Three of KTM's riders—Brad Binder, Jack Miller, and Pol Espargaro—have already secured agreements for 2024, leaving Fernandez, the 2022 Moto2 World Champion on a one-year deal, as the rider most vulnerable to being replaced. Nevertheless, Fernandez, the sole rookie on the grid, has emerged as a quiet star this year, delivering consistent results on the satellite machinery, highlighted by a remarkable fourth-place finish in the French MotoGP.

Fernandez's impressive performances come after KTM controversially dropped Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez from its Tech 3 lineup after just one MotoGP season. Despite their dominant 1-2 finish in the previous year's Moto2 standings, the duo struggled to adapt to the bigger stage.

In comparison, Augusto Fernandez has already surpassed the combined points tally of his predecessors after just ten races, consisting of five sprint races and five feature races.

Does KTM have an alternative MotoGP option?

KTM's handling of contractual matters has not endeared itself to many in the paddock, with the controversies surrounding Johann Zarco in 2019 and the messy circumstances surrounding Gardner and Fernandez's announcement in 2020, replacing Iker Lecuona and Danilo Petrucci.

This recent episode sheds light on KTM's intense development program aimed at integrating more experienced riders into a MotoGP project that is still relatively young. However, Acosta is viewed as a level above KTM's previous discoveries, and failing to fulfill its contract with the young talent would likely result in losing him to another team.

Such an outcome would be unfortunate for Fernandez, though his performances have undoubtedly caught the attention of other paddock observers, making him a potential target for other teams. One possibility could be replacing the still underperforming Raul Fernandez (once again) at RNF Aprilia.

Furthermore, uncertainties surround Espargaro, who has yet to start a race with GasGas following his Portimao injury. Lingering effects could render his contract null and void, although many would question KTM's loyalty if they were to abandon the Spaniard so soon after enticing him away from Honda.

Alternatively, with the support of Red Bull, KTM might consider loaning one of its riders to a rival team, perhaps Honda, given their close ties with the Austrian drinks company.

While it remains an option, Acosta could spend another year in Moto2, following a strategy that proved successful for Zarco. If KTM is not in the picture, it is no secret that Yamaha has shown interest, while Ducati would also present an appealing proposition for both parties involved.

Iron Sheik leaves behind a pioneering world wrestling legacy

In a heartbreaking loss for the professional wrestling world, this week saw the passing of a true pioneer, Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known to fans as the Iron Sheik.

A Persian trailblazer, Vaziri had an illustrious career as a former WWE champion, and tag team belt holder, and was rightfully inducted into the organization's Hall of Fame in 2005.

Born on March 15, 1942, in Damghan, Semnan province, Iran, Vaziri passed away on Wednesday at the age of 81, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

Throughout his career, the Iron Sheik portrayed the role of a fanatical foreign menace, drawing hate from fans, particularly in the United States. Often mistaken for an Arab, Vaziri was the first prominent figure from the Iranian wrestling scene to make his mark on the international stage.

He represented Iran's Greco-Roman wrestling team at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City before eventually relocating to the United States. In the 1970s, Vaziri served as the assistant coach for two Olympic wrestling squads, showcasing his dedication to the sport.

In 1971, he achieved the Amateur Athletic Union Greco-Roman wrestling championship and gold medal, followed by his role as an assistant coach for the US team at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

In 1979, Vaziri joined the American Wrestling Association under promoter Verne Gagne's invitation, starting his professional wrestling career. Following appearances in various promotions, his menacing persona and wrestling prowess caught the attention of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as WWE.

The Iron Sheik made a grand entrance by winning the first-ever Battle Royal at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Although he didn't clinch the title from then-WWF champion Bob Backlund that night, their memorable 30-minute showdown left a lasting impression.

After wrestling for different promotions, Vaziri returned to the WWF in 1983 and successfully defeated Backlund for the World Heavyweight Championship, becoming the first Persian to accomplish this feat.

In a historic turn of events, Vaziri was scheduled for a rematch with Backlund but ended up facing Hulk Hogan instead. Hogan's victory marked the birth of "Hulkamania" as he delivered his signature leg-drop move, solidifying his status as a wrestling icon.

The Iron Sheik then engaged in a memorable feud with Sgt. Slaughter, who portrayed a member of the US military, capitalized on the timely tensions between the US and Iran. Their intense "boot camp" match in June 1984 at Madison Square Garden remains highly acclaimed by wrestling enthusiasts.

Further cementing his villainous image, the Iron Sheik teamed up with Nikolai Volkoff from the Soviet Union. Under the management of "Classy" Freddie Blassie, they won the WWF World Tag Team Championship from The US Express at the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, leaving an indelible mark in wrestling history.

After venturing into other wrestling promotions, Vaziri returned to the WWF in 1991 as Colonel Mustafa, aligning himself with former adversary Sgt. Slaughter and Adnan Al-Kaissie, a former Iraqi professional wrestler and manager known as General Adnan.

As Iraqi sympathizers during the Gulf War, the trio formed the Triangle of Terror, fueling the hatred of WWE fans as they feuded with Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior.

At WrestleMania 17 in 2001, Vaziri emerged victorious in a Gimmick Battle Royal, which showcased popular or eccentric wrestlers from the 1980s and 1990s.

Interestingly, the villainous Iron Sheik had gained a cult following among wrestling fans and

Disqualified Japanese player Kato becomes French Open champion

In an unexpected turn of events, Miyu Kato from Japan emerged as a French Open champion, just four days after her controversial disqualification from the women's doubles for inadvertently hitting a ball girl. Teaming up with her German partner Tim Puetz, Kato secured victory in the mixed doubles final at Roland Garros, defeating Bianca Andreescu and Michael Venus with a score of 4-6, 6-4, 10-6.

Addressing the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd, Kato acknowledged the mental challenges she faced in the past few days following her unjust disqualification. She expressed her gratitude to fellow players for their heartfelt messages of support and shared how she channeled that positive energy on the court during the final. She also mentioned her appeal, seeking a favorable outcome that would allow her to reclaim her prize money, points, and reputation.

Puetz, acknowledging the drama surrounding the default, expressed his hope that the title would serve as redemption for Kato. He emphasized that the support she received was well-deserved.

The disqualification incident occurred on Sunday when Kato, together with her Indonesian teammate Aldila Sutjiadi, accidentally hit a ballgirl with a gentle lob. Initially, they received only a warning from the chair umpire, but their opponents, Marie Bouzkova and Sara Sorribes Tormo lodged a protest, prompting the tournament supervisor to review the incident once more. Consequently, Kato and Sutjiadi were disqualified, with Kato also having to forfeit her prize money.

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Kato expressed her concern for the ballgirl, hoping she was okay, and expressed her desire to face Bouzkova and Sorribes Tormo again on the court.

Neymar wants to return to Barca

Neymar, the 31-year-old forward of Brazil and reigning French Ligue 1 champions PSG, wishes to return to Barcelona this summer, reports Sport.es.

PSG does not want to continue collaboration with Neymar.

His representatives have already informed Barca that the footballer is ready for a considerable salary cut at the Catalan club.

Neymar played in Barcelona from 2013 to 2017.

His current contract with PSG runs until June 2025.

Pakistan's Imran Khan granted bail over murder charges

Imran Khan, Pakistan's former prime minister, was granted bail on Thursday by the Islamabad High Court in relation to new murder charges. This bail order prevents his arrest in the case for a period of 14 days, as confirmed by his lawyer.

Following his arrest and three-day detention last month, which triggered violent protests by his followers, Mr. Khan had already obtained bail in several other criminal cases against him.

He traveled from his home in Lahore to the country's capital to seek bail in the murder case, as well as an extension of his bail in over a dozen other cases, in order to avoid the risk of being rearrested. Barrister Gohar Khan, his lawyer, provided this information.

Since his ousting through a no-confidence vote last year, the 70-year-old former cricketer, who became prime minister in 2018, has been involved in a confrontation with the powerful military.

Throughout the country's history, the military has directly ruled or overseen civilian governments, and political confrontations are often resolved through legal proceedings.

Mr. Khan's arrest on May 9, on corruption charges which he strongly denies, resulted in protests where military properties were vandalized. This raised concerns about the stability of the nuclear-armed nation with a population of 220 million, as it grapples with its most severe economic crisis in decades.

Since his release, charges against Mr. Khan have continued to pile up. On Wednesday, he was named by the police in connection with the murder of a lawyer who was seeking sedition proceedings against him.

Mr. Khan asserts that he is facing nearly 150 cases and firmly denies all allegations brought against him.

As previously mentioned by his lawyer, the former prime minister intends to appeal for bail in connection with more than a dozen cases by approaching anti-terrorism courts, anti-graft courts, and the High Court in Islamabad.

In an online address to party workers on Wednesday, Mr. Khan expressed his resignation to the possibility of being arrested for a second time.

Initially, the military viewed Mr. Khan, with his conservative and nationalist agenda, as a leader who shared their interests. However, during his tenure as prime minister, his actions, particularly regarding security sector appointments, caused displeasure among the generals.

He has accused the military and its intelligence agency of attempting to dismantle his party, firmly believing that he will be tried in a military court and subsequently sentenced to jail as part of the army-backed crackdown on his political organization.

On Wednesday, the military issued a statement emphasizing the importance of bringing all those involved in the violence on May 9 to justice.

Shahbaz Sharif, Mr. Khan's successor as prime minister, has rejected his call for an early election before the scheduled poll later this year. Mr. Khan alleges that the cases against him are aimed at ensuring his exclusion from participating in the upcoming elections.

Mr. Khan has appealed for dialogue to resolve the standoff with the military, but the government has rejected his proposals.

Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan facing nearly 150 charges since initial arrest

Ousted Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan secured bail on Thursday from the Islamabad High Court, effectively preventing his arrest in the new murder case for a period of 14 days, according to his lawyer.

Mr. Khan was arrested on May 9 and held for three days, which sparked violent protests among his followers. Currently, he is out on bail in several other criminal cases as well.

He traveled from his home in Lahore to the capital to seek bail in the murder case and to extend his bail in more than a dozen other cases, in order to avoid a fresh arrest, stated Barrister Gohar Khan.

The 70-year-old former cricketer, who became prime minister in 2018, has been engaged in a confrontational relationship with the powerful military ever since his ousting through a no-confidence vote last year. Throughout the country's history, the military has either directly ruled or overseen civilian governments, and political conflicts are frequently resolved in court.

Mr. Khan's initial arrest on corruption charges, which he vehemently denies, triggered protests by his supporters who vandalized military facilities, raising concerns about the stability of the nuclear-armed nation with a population of 220 million people, as it grapples with its most severe economic crisis in decades.

Since his release, new charges have been mounting against Mr. Khan. On Wednesday, the police implicated him in the murder of a lawyer who had sought sedition proceedings against him.

Mr. Khan maintains that he is facing nearly 150 cases and firmly denies any wrongdoing, suggesting that these cases are aimed at ensuring his exclusion from participating in elections.

During an online address to his party workers on Wednesday, he expressed his acceptance of the possibility of being arrested again.

On the same day, the military issued a statement emphasizing the need to bring all planners and perpetrators of the May 9 violence to justice.

Shahbaz Sharif, the prime minister who succeeded Mr. Khan, has dismissed his calls for an early election before the scheduled one later this year.

Mr. Khan has also appealed for dialogue to resolve the standoff with the military, but the government has rejected his proposals.

Pakistan's Imran Khan Gets Bail On Murder Charges

ISLAMABAD, June 8 (Reuters) - Ousted Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan secured bail on Thursday from the Islamabad High Court over new murder charges, blocking his arrest in that case for 14 days, according to his lawyer.

The former prime minister was arrested on May 9 and detained for three days, which led to violent protests by his followers. He is currently out on bail in several other criminal cases.

Khan traveled from his home in Lahore to seek bail in the murder case and extend his bail in over a dozen other cases to avoid a new arrest, stated his lawyer, Barrister Gohar Khan. The 70-year-old former cricket hero, who became prime minister in 2018, has been in a confrontation with the powerful military since his ousting in a no-confidence vote last year.

Throughout the country's history, the military has directly ruled or overseen civilian governments, and political confrontations are often fought in court.

Khan's arrest on corruption charges on May 9, which he denies, resulted in protests by his supporters who vandalized military facilities. This raised concerns about the stability of the nuclear-armed country with a population of 220 million people, as it grapples with its worst economic crisis in decades.

Since Khan's release, new charges have been brought against him. On Wednesday, the police named him in connection with the murder of a lawyer who sought sedition proceedings against him. Khan maintains his innocence in nearly 150 cases filed against him.

Khan's lawyer, Gohar Khan, announced that the former prime minister would approach anti-terrorism courts, anti-graft courts, and the High Court in Islamabad on Thursday to seek bail in connection with more than a dozen cases.

Khan, who has been campaigning for an early election since his removal last year, acknowledged in an online address to party workers on Wednesday that he is prepared for the possibility of being arrested again.

Initially, the military viewed Khan, with his conservative nationalist agenda, as a leader who aligned with their interests. However, during his tenure as prime minister, Khan took actions that displeased the military, particularly in relation to security sector appointments.

He has accused the military and its intelligence agency of attempting to dismantle his party, expressing his certainty that he will face trial in a military court and be imprisoned as part of the army-backed crackdown on his party.

The military released a statement on Wednesday, stating that all those responsible for the violence on May 9 must be brought to justice.

Shahbaz Sharif, the prime minister who replaced Khan, rejected his call for an early election before the scheduled one later this year. Khan believes that the cases against him are designed to prevent his participation in the polls.

Khan has appealed for talks to resolve the standoff with the military, but the government has declined his request.

Reporting by Asif Shahzad, Editing by Robert Birsel and Peter Graff.