Latest news with #CrownJewels
Daily Record
11-07-2025
- Daily Record
Historic Scottish landmarks named in top 10 'most boring' tourist attractions by visitors
These hot spots were labelled as 'dul' and 'tedious' Two Scottish historic landmarks have been named among the 10 most boring tourist attractions in continental Europe, according to new analysis of TripAdvisor reviews. The Real Mary King's Close and Edinburgh Castle were both flagged in a study by World of Card Games, which examined boredom-related comments from visitors to 50 of Europe's most celebrated destinations. Despite their rich history and strong ratings, many travellers say the sites didn't live up to the hype. The Real Mary King's Close in Edinburgh topped the list, with 2.42 percent of visitors describing their experience as 'boring', the highest boredom rating of all attractions surveyed. Edinburgh Castle also featured in the top 10, ranking eighth with 1.78 percent of reviews labelling it a let-down. To determine where tourists felt the most underwhelmed, the World of Card Games team sifted through thousands of TripAdvisor reviews, scanning for terms like 'dull,' 'lifeless,' 'tedious,' and 'mediocre.' The result paints a picture of rising expectations, and growing disappointment, at some of the continent's most iconic sites. 'A lot of travel guides focus on the top attractions and must-see landmarks, but we wanted to explore where boredom truly sets in for visitors,' said Holger Sindbaek, founder of World of Card Games. 'By analysing real reviews and tracking how often people mention feeling disappointed, we gained a better understanding of which European destinations aren't meeting expectations. It turns out, even some of the continent's most iconic sites aren't delivering the excitement they promise.' At The Real Mary King's Close, visitors descend beneath Edinburgh's City Chambers to explore a preserved maze of 17th to 19th-century streets once teeming with life. The underground site, described as 'a time capsule beneath the Royal Mile', is rated 4.4 out of 5 based on more than 23,000 TripAdvisor reviews. But despite its eerie charm and immersive storytelling, some tourists were left unimpressed. One visitor wrote: 'It was pretty disappointing, poor and boring unfortunately. The lady who presented and told the information was pleasant and worked hard at giving all of the information, but the actual experience left a lot to be desired sadly, it was just mainly dull sadly. "The tour takes about forty-five minutes to an hour, but we were honestly hoping it'd finish only a few minutes into the tour. Also, the ticket prices are £22.50 each for adults, which is vastly overpriced for what it is. The tickets should be fifteen pounds each maximum for adults.' Similarly, Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most visited attractions, holds a 4.4 rating with over 53,000 reviews and is a centrepiece of the capital's World Heritage Site. The historic stronghold houses the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, Mons Meg, and the National War Museum of Scotland. But even with its impressive credentials, some visitors left feeling deflated. One reviewer said: 'Me and my son (7 years) went to this expecting a castle. It was more like a smaller Tower of London type place. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "I have to say, despite this being one of the main attractions, I was a bit underwhelmed by it... It has a lot of museums in the grounds, but they were a bit boring for us both (sorry!)... The crown jewels is just one room with a crown/sword etc. It's not very much for the 15–20 minute wait we had.' Though both sites continue to attract huge numbers of tourists, the findings suggest that high expectations and large crowds are making it harder for historic landmarks to leave a lasting impression. Other iconic sites with surprisingly high boredom ratings included Florence's Gallerie Degli Uffizi (2.27 percent), The British Museum (2.24 percent), and Buckingham Palace (2.08 percent). According to the study, common complaints included overcrowding, lack of interactive exhibits, or simply underwhelming experiences compared to the anticipation.
Time Business News
09-07-2025
- Time Business News
Top 10 Must-Visit Historical Places in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a treasure trove of historical gems, offering a blend of ancient ruins, majestic castles, and cultural landmarks. From prehistoric monuments to medieval fortresses, these sites offer a unique window into the country's rich and varied past. Whether you're an architecture lover, a history buff, or simply an adventurer at heart, the UK's historical sites will captivate you. Here's a fresh journey through the top historical places you must visit. The United Kingdom is a land steeped in history, with sites that span millennia. From the awe-inspiring Stonehenge to the iconic Westminster Abbey, the country is home to some of the most historically significant places in the world. These landmarks tell the stories of past civilizations, royal dynasties, and significant events. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to appreciate the beauty of timeworn architecture, these sites offer the perfect backdrop for exploration. Best Time to Visit: Spring : Enjoy the blooming gardens and mild weather. Perfect for scenic walks around historic landmarks. : Enjoy the blooming gardens and mild weather. Perfect for scenic walks around historic landmarks. Summer: Festivals and cultural events fill the air, bringing history to life with music, theater, and more. Historical Significance: This mysterious Neolithic monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most iconic prehistoric structures. Its purpose and origins are still debated, adding to its allure. Historical Significance: An ancient Roman spa complex, the Roman Baths offer an extraordinary glimpse into Roman life and engineering. The beautifully preserved bathhouse is a must-see for anyone interested in Roman history. Historical Significance: This fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. It's home to the Crown Jewels and offers visitors a deep dive into the history of England's monarchy. Historical Significance: Built by the Romans, this defensive fortification stretches across northern England and marks the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers scenic views alongside historical insights. Historical Significance: One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Its intricate stained glass windows and towering spires are a testament to centuries of craftsmanship. England is home to a rich variety of historic castles, each with its own unique charm and story to tell: Tower of London : Explore its royal history and legendary figures. : Explore its royal history and legendary figures. Windsor Castle : The oldest occupied castle in the world, it serves as the royal family's residence. : The oldest occupied castle in the world, it serves as the royal family's residence. Warwick Castle: Step into medieval England with interactive exhibits and reenactments. Scotland's castles are known for their dramatic settings and deep historical significance: Edinburgh Castle : Perched atop a volcanic rock, it offers stunning views and a deep dive into Scottish royal history. : Perched atop a volcanic rock, it offers stunning views and a deep dive into Scottish royal history. Stirling Castle : One of Scotland's grandest castles, it played a key role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. : One of Scotland's grandest castles, it played a key role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Urquhart Castle: Situated on the shores of Loch Ness, it's perfect for those seeking history and mystery. Wales boasts some of the most impressive medieval castles in the world: Caernarfon Castle : A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its polygonal towers and medieval architecture. : A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its polygonal towers and medieval architecture. Conwy Castle : A stronghold built by Edward I, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. : A stronghold built by Edward I, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Cardiff Castle: A blend of Roman and Gothic architecture in the heart of Wales' capital. Cornwall's stunning landscapes are enriched by its fascinating historical landmarks: Tintagel Castle : Linked to the Arthurian legends, this ancient site offers breathtaking views and intriguing ruins. : Linked to the Arthurian legends, this ancient site offers breathtaking views and intriguing ruins. St. Michael's Mount : A medieval castle and church, it's a must-visit spot for its unique charm and accessibility during low tide. : A medieval castle and church, it's a must-visit spot for its unique charm and accessibility during low tide. Lost Gardens of Heligan: These Victorian gardens are a wonderful testament to Cornwall's history and horticultural skills. Other Historical Gems in Cornwall: Launceston Castle : Explore Cornwall's medieval history with exhibits and views. : Explore Cornwall's medieval history with exhibits and views. Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling: Discover Cornwall's hidden past with insights into the region's notorious smuggling history. London: London is teeming with historical landmarks, each telling its own story of Britain's past: Westminster Abbey : Home to royal weddings and coronations, it's a symbol of British royal history. : Home to royal weddings and coronations, it's a symbol of British royal history. St. Paul's Cathedral: Famous for its grand dome, it is a centerpiece of London's skyline. Edinburgh: Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is another hub for historical exploration: Palace of Holyroodhouse : The official residence of the Scottish royal family, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's royal history. : The official residence of the Scottish royal family, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's royal history. The Royal Mile: A historic street filled with museums, shops, and monuments that connect Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The UK's national parks offer much more than natural beauty; they're steeped in history: North York Moors National Park : Known for its ancient stone circles and settlements. : Known for its ancient stone circles and settlements. Scottish Highlands : Famous for its rugged landscapes and historic battlefields. : Famous for its rugged landscapes and historic battlefields. Pembrokeshire Coast: A stunning national park that combines nature with history. The UK's heritage is visible not only in its castles and monuments but in its cities and landscapes: Hadrian's Wall : An iconic Roman relic that marks the frontier of the Roman Empire. : An iconic Roman relic that marks the frontier of the Roman Empire. City of Bath: A UNESCO World Heritage city known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. For fans of both history and the magical world of Harry Potter, the UK offers a unique blend of both: Alnwick Castle : Famous as a filming location for Hogwarts in the first two movies. : Famous as a filming location for Hogwarts in the first two movies. Glenfinnan Viaduct : A stunning spot featured in the Harry Potter films, offering majestic views of the Scottish Highlands. : A stunning spot featured in the Harry Potter films, offering majestic views of the Scottish Highlands. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Harry Potter films. The UK is home to numerous ancient sites that offer a glimpse into our distant past: Stonehenge : One of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world, Stonehenge is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. : One of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world, Stonehenge is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Tintern Abbey: A stunning ruin in Wales, showcasing the grandeur of medieval monastic life. As we explore the United Kingdom's historical treasures, we uncover stories from the past that shape the nation's identity today. From Scotland's rugged castles to England's iconic landmarks, each site holds a story waiting to be told. A visit to these historic sites will not only deepen your understanding of the UK's past but also inspire appreciation for the stunning architecture and cultural heritage that have shaped Britain. What are the best historical attractions in the UK? Stonehenge, Tower of London, and Roman Baths are some of the top historical attractions. When is the best time to visit UK historical sites? Spring and summer are ideal, as the weather is pleasant and there are many cultural festivals. What are some notable historical castles in the UK? Windsor Castle, Edinburgh Castle, and Caernarfon Castle are must-visit sites. Which cities in the UK are rich in historical landmarks? London, Edinburgh, and Bath are renowned for their historical landmarks. What are some of the must-see ancient ruins in the UK? Stonehenge, Tintern Abbey, and the Henge of Brodgar offer a glimpse into ancient times. By refreshing the content, we aim to provide a richer, clearer, and more engaging journey through the UK's historical sites, offering insight and inspiration for travelers. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time of India
01-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Mughal Jewels: The untold stories behind India's most iconic treasures
India has always had a deep connection with jewellery– be it in rituals, royalty, or daily life. But if there's one chapter in history where that bond truly dazzled, it was during the Mughal era. At the height of their reign, the Mughal emperors didn't just rule vast territories– they set the bar for art, culture, and, of course, fine jewellery. For them, gemstones weren't just ornaments. They were political assets, status symbols, even historical documents. Some were inscribed with royal names, others passed quietly between kingdoms, carrying the weight of shifting power. In a time when global conversations are circling back to questions of rightful ownership, especially of colonial-era treasures, many of these Mughal gems serve as reminders– not just of beauty, but of how history was recorded, lost, and sometimes taken. Timur Ruby Despite the name, the Timur Ruby isn't a ruby at all. It's a giant red spinel, and it weighs a staggering 350+ carats. But its size isn't the only thing that draws attention. Look closer, and you'll find names etched into the stone– Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb, and others. Over the years, this gemstone travelled across empires, from Mughal hands to Persia, then Punjab, and finally, to Britain. Today, it's part of the British Crown collection. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Reportingly It's not just a jewel. It's a record of shifting power– written right into the stone. The Peacock Throne Commissioned by Shah Jahan, the Peacock Throne was far more than just a seat. It was a spectacle. Made from gold and decorated with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and pearls, it was topped with a bejewelled peacock– hence the name. But the throne didn't last. In 1739, Nadir Shah invaded Delhi and carried it off. Over time, it was taken apart, and its pieces disappeared. What remains is a memory– one of the most extravagant symbols of royal power ever built in India. Akbar Shah Diamond Once weighing more than 70 carats, this diamond held something rare– Arabic inscriptions of three Mughal emperors: Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan. At one point, it likely sat on the Peacock Throne itself. After Nadir Shah's invasion, it vanished for a time. When it resurfaced, it had been recut by a British jeweller– erasing the original names. The gem survived, but the engravings, and the stories they told, did not. Koh-i-Noor There's no gemstone more debated than the Koh-i-Noor. Mined in the Golconda region, it changed hands many times before becoming part of the Mughal treasury. Following the British annexation of Punjab, it was taken to England and added to the Crown Jewels. Today, it weighs just over 100 carats and sits at the heart of an ongoing conversation– one about empire, history, and what should be returned. Daria-i-Noor The Daria-i-Noor, or 'Sea of Light,' is one of the largest pink diamonds ever recorded. Like the Koh-i-Noor, it came from Golconda and once belonged to the Mughals. Paired with the Noor-ul-Ain, another stunning diamond, the Daria-i-Noor was taken to Persia after the Mughal treasury was looted by Nadir Shah. Today, it remains in Iran, part of their royal collection. It's lesser known, but no less important.
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Joanne Milner Of Garrard On The Ascot Gold Cup, Craftsmanship And Royal Heritage
Royal Ascot Gold Cup Regarded as the oldest jewelry house in the world, Garrard was established in 1735 and with that, comes a rich and storied past. Having been appointed the first official Crown Jeweler in 1843 by Queen Victoria, the house has had strong links with the British royal family ever since. As for exceptional headwear, cue the infamous Imperial State Crown and an array of tiaras that have been worn by Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Anne, and Princess Beatrice on their wedding days, there's also the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, which dates back to 1661 and modified over the years, including the addition of the largest clear-cut diamond in the world in 1910, to more recently, Princes Diana's 12-carat Ceylon sapphire and diamond engagement ring which has been passed onto Catherine, Princess of Wales. Queen Elizabeth II with crown, orb and sceptre, 2 June 1953, (1962). Coronation portrait: the Queen wears the Imperial State Crown, made in 1937 for the coronation of her father George VI, and holds the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, and the Sovereign's Orb, both dating from 1661. The crown, orb and sceptre are part of the Royal Collection at the Tower of London. From "The Crown Jewels in the Tower of London", by Martin Holmes, F.S.A.. [Her Majesty's Stationery, London, 1962]. Creator: Unknown. (Photo by The Print Collector/Heritage Images via Getty Images) As well as fine jewels, the house also has ties with Royal Ascot, particularly through crafting its trophies, and the infamous Ascot Gold Cup. This year is a particularly special year, as it sees the combination of two major milestones that form part of The Gold Cup's story, 290 years of Garrard and 200 years of the beloved Royal Procession at Ascot. 'The Royal Ascot trophies are a true expression of Garrard's craftsmanship, combining traditional silversmithing techniques with modern innovation to create something both meaningful and lasting,' says Claire Scott, Design and Development Director at Garrard. ASCOT, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Queen Elizabeth II holds the Gold Cup and Prince Andrew, Duke of York after Ryan Moore riding Estimate won The Gold Cup during Ladies' Day on day three of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse on June 20, 2013 in Ascot, England. (Photo byfor Ascot Racecourse) On this year's iteration, she says, "it's not only a symbol of sporting excellence, but a celebration of shared history, created to be treasured long after the moment of victory.' Respecting its heritage, while looking to the future, Claire shares, 'At Garrard, we do not replicate the past. We evolve it, using our heritage as a foundation to create designs that are relevant today and respectful of where we have come from.' King Charles III and the Gold Cup during day three of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire. Picture date: Thursday June 22, 2023. (Photo by David Davies/PA Images via Getty Images) Royal Ascot is in full swing, and today, on Ladies' Day, the Gold Cup will be awarded. To mark the occasion, Joanne Milner, Garrard's CEO discusses the heritage of this storied jewelry house, craftsmanship, and the future of legacy luxury. Joanne Milner: Garrard is the ultimate example that you can invest in luxury and that it will last forever. As one of the few independent jewellers in the world, and the oldest amongst them, Garrard has the best of both worlds; being one of the most historic luxury brands in the world, while still keeping true to the values of a 'family jeweller'. As such, every Garrard piece is iconic and is built to last forever. It's inspiring to think that in another 290 years people will be walking through our doors, enquiring about a piece of Garrard that we made today. Perhaps they will have just inherited it, and are keen to know its story. And there will be a story for them to discover. That is Garrard's true USP, and it's where I see it shaping our future as a legacy luxury brand. Every piece of Garrard has a genuine and meaningful story that can be brought to life, and can endure – no matter what. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 27: Queen Elizabeth II (wearing 'The Diamond Diadem' made for King George IV by Rundell, Bridge and Rundell in 1820, 'The Coronation Earrings' and 'The Coronation Necklace' made by Garrard for Queen Victoria in 1858) travels down The Mall (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) JM: Garrard's legacy of storytelling is vital to our clients. It is not just the beauty of each of our pieces, it is the meaning behind it. As the oldest jewellery house in the world and the ultimate legacy jeweller, our heritage organically attracts a new generation looking to make their own mark. This combined with the iconic Garrard designs which have consistently proven to stand the test of time, reborn and refashioned for the muses of today, maintains our cultural relevance and enduring appeal. We've observed how the world is returning to heritage luxuries. As lives become increasingly fast-paced and transactional, the authenticity and grounding of heritage brands such as Garrard take centre stage. Our everlasting craftsmanship is what enables pieces to be tailored and redesigned, meaning each piece can act as a living legacy constantly being shaped by the hands it is passed onto. As we look to the future of jewellery and our house, Garrard's heritage and 290 years of refining our craft are our greatest strengths. We are a living, breathing, house – not a museum – whose clients' real-life stories of love, family, beauty, and strength continue to be written. It is a responsibility we take seriously. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 03: Diana, Princess Of Wales As Patron Of The English National Ballet, Attends 'Swan Lake' At London's Royal Albert Hall Wearing A Necklace By Garrard. (Photo by Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images) JM: It is a huge privilege to be custodian of the oldest jewellery house in the world. Even now, 10 years since I joined Garrard, I continue to discover new stories from our past. It is my responsibility to make sure Garrard is here in another 290 years from now. Not perhaps my biggest learning, but something I'm constantly working and striving towards, is how to balance Garrard the historic brand with Garrard the business of today and the future. It's a powerful symbiotic relationship. Neither one can grow or survive without the other. My most vital task as CEO is constantly ensuring we're meeting the needs of both. While of course the ideal linear trajectory is rarely achieved, as long as both are moving in the right direction, I am happy! Craftsmanship at Garrard JM: My vision is to set the standard for what a modern heritage brand can be. I really want to focus on our story, and the storytelling inherent in luxury jewellery, which is our greatest asset. In a world of so many trends that come and go, Garrard truly is an iconic constant. A storied world of luxury, our archival vault is home to some of the greatest stories ever told. Founded on the principles of heritage and luxury, our commitment to craftsmanship and design will shape our future. Top of my mind is sustainability, a journey to ensure that every part of our brand and business caters to the next generation of jewellery owners; from altering the exquisite ancestral pieces passed onto them, to creating versatile yet everlasting new icons that can be taken apart and built back up again. It is the principles of longevity and endurance that the great historical luxury houses excel at. There couldn't be a better time than now to call on them. Craftsmanship at Garrard JM: It is both. While the legacy pieces are part of what puts us into a league of our own today, to continue to keep Garrard in this singular position we must continue to be relevant by creating new 'moments' and 'pieces' that will write the next chapter of the legacy. Heritage is at the heart of who we are, but it is the way we reinterpret and evolve that legacy through bold design and modern innovation that truly sets us apart. His Majesty the King's Coronation was a moment that perfectly captured this balance. It is one of my proudest moments since joining Garrard. It beautifully showcased the power and longevity of our brand. Pieces we designed and crafted hundreds of years ago were worn alongside pieces from our current collections. It showed that a Garrard piece of jewellery is as desirable today as it always has been. Our jewellery is for now, as well as forever. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 06: King Charles III and Queen Camilla wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace following their coronation at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) JM: Iconic in every sense, one of my favourite pieces has to be Princess Diana's sapphire and diamond cluster engagement ring. What I love most about this ring is that she chose it herself. There is a personal connection, an emotion, and a self-determined spirit to be admired. ARGENTINA - NOVEMBER 24: A Portrait Of Princess Diana Looking Pensive Whilst Visiting The British American Benevolent Society During Her Official Tour Of Argentina. (Photo by Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images) My other favourite piece is deeply personal. It is my own Garrard piece, a different type of gemstone cluster ring. It features my favourite stone. A sapphire. But not the deep blue most people are familiar with. Mine is a Padparadscha sapphire, a rare variety with an incredible mix of fiery orange and pink hues. It epitomises Garrard's expertise in sourcing the finest and rarest coloured gemstones. And for me, it captures the unique and colourful spirit that we are known for. It is this spirit that will continue to define Garrard for generations. Royal Ascot 2025 runs until Saturday the 21st of June, with the Royal Ascot Gold Cup being awarded today. Royal Ascot Gold Cup
Newsweek
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
IndyCar Driver Calls Out F1 After 2026 Calendar Changes: 'Single Handedly Ruined Motorsport Xmas'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. IndyCar driver Scott McLaughlin has called out Formula One for shuffling the 2026 calendar, which has "ruined" the opportunity for fans to watch the "3 crown jewels." The Monaco Grand Prix is usually held on the same day as the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 race in Charlotte and the Indianapolis 500. In 2026, the Monaco GP will be held on 7th June, while the Canadian Grand Prix has been moved to an earlier date, which clashes with the IndyCar and NASCAR races. The swapping of the Monaco and Canadian Grands Prix has led McLaughlin to criticize the shuffle, who pointed out that motorsport fans won't be able to enjoy all the events since the Canadian GP would be held at a similar time. This prompted him to suggest that F1 has "single handedly ruined Motorsport Xmas." Revealing his feelings on X, he wrote: Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes leads Charles Leclerc of Monaco driving the (16) Scuderia Ferrari SF-25 Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes Max Verstappen of... Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes leads Charles Leclerc of Monaco driving the (16) Scuderia Ferrari SF-25 Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 and the rest of the field at the start during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. More"Congrats to @f1 who single handedly ruined Motorsport Xmas. Indy 500 will be a scene next year. As well as the Coke 600. Good luck." He added: "FYI.. I'm just sad for the race fan in me that loved watching 3 Crown Jewels on the same day. But instead we've decided to compete with each other instead of just enjoy pure Motorsport. Anyway, that is all." FYI.. I'm just sad for the race fan in me that loved watching 3 Crown Jewels on the same day. But instead we've decided to compete with each other instead of just enjoy pure Motorsport. Anyway, that is all. — Scott McLaughlin (@smclaughlin93) June 10, 2025 F1's 2026 calendar was recently unveiled, with the biggest change being the introduction of Madrid, which will host the Spanish GP. However, to accommodate the new venue in a packed calendar, Imola has been dropped. Notably, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya also faced a threat since its F1 contract expires at the end of 2026. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton admitted that dropping Barcelona from the F1 calendar would be a shame and voiced his support for classic F1 circuits. Newsweek Sports reported his statement: "I think ultimately losing any of the classics, and this is one of the classics, I think would be a shame, because as I said, it's a great city. "There's a great following here in Spain, particularly since Fernando [Alonso] was here. As long as we have a race in Spain, that's what matters most. "This feels like the home of Formula 1 in Spain. But it's okay to progress as a sport, and I know Madrid, as I said, is a great location." He added: "As long as they build a good circuit, which I'm less hopeful for - building new circuits is very, very hit and miss. 90 plus per cent of the time, it's worse. "As long as it's a better circuit, or as good a circuit, I'm not bothered either way."
