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?

Women’s football kits have undergone a major transformation, reflecting the rapid growth of the game. What was once second-hand and ill-fitting has become more tailored, practical and player-focused.

Women’s football is growing and gaining popularity fast. It’s also finding fans among celebrities. Whether through direct investment in clubs or public support for the women’s game, these high-profile figures are leading by example. Queenballers takes a look at some of them.

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.

Today’s Off the Pitch comes in a slightly different format than you might be used to on Queenballers. This time, we’re turning the spotlight on the Bajens — the fans of Stockholm-based club Hammarby. And since I am one of them, it only feels natural to tell their story from my own perspective.

You’re 18. You’ve just helped your team to a bronze medal in Norway’s Toppserien. You have been nominated Young Player of the Year. Everything feels like it’s falling into place — a career opening up in front of you, a path that could one day follow the likes of Caroline Graham Hansen or Maren Mjelde. And then, suddenly, it stops. The diagnosis every footballer fears: an ACL injury.

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.