Off The Pitch: Hobbies and life off the pitch

Formula 1 has become one of the biggest global phenomena in sport today. The runaway success of Drive to Survive, booming trading card sales, and the ever-growing popularity of drivers, many of whom have reached true global celebrity status, all underline its appeal. The sport also attracts some of the world’s biggest sponsors, while broadcasting rights continue to reach astronomical figures. So, which players feel closest to the world of F1, and which drivers top their list of favourites?

Breaking into the England national football team setup is never easy - but Lucia Kendall has made it look exactly that. The 21-year-old Aston Villa midfielder has quickly caught the attention of Sarina Wiegman with her energetic and composed performances in the Women's Super League this season. But while she looks like the complete footballer, it wasn’t always football for the youngster from Winchester.

Crocheting is a hobby that has gained renewed popularity since the COVID years and is widespread across generations. It has even found its way into professional sport. One well-known example is British diver Tom Daley, who is also an avid knitter. In women’s football, one of the hobby’s most prominent advocates is German star Klara Bühl.

Named the world’s best floorball player by Innebandy Magazinet, Maja Viström has collected success at both club and international level. Yet her sporting career could easily have taken a very different path. Earlier in her life, she also played football — even representing her country at youth international level.

We can all agree that dogs are our most loyal companions, brightening our lives in countless ways. Women’s footballers are no exception, often proudly showing off their four-legged biggest supporters on social media. So, who are the beloved pets of the game’s biggest stars?

The Olympic Games officially begin on Friday, February 6. And although football logically belongs in the summer games, it is also represented here, even though you might not expect it.