Sport

Dele Alli

Personal information
Full name	Bamidele Jermaine Alli
Birthdate	April 11, 1996
Age	28 years old
Occupation	Footballer
By-name	Delstroyer
Stage name	Dele Alli
Nationality	British
Couple	Maria Guardiola (2021) Cindy Kimberly (2022-Present)
Height	6'2"
Parents	Denise and Kehinde Alli
Zodiac sign	Aries
Biography in other languages	Español

Dele Alli Biography

Bamidele Jermaine Alli (April 11, 1996), better known as Dele Alli, is a professional footballer born in Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom. His skill and talent on the field have led him to be recognized as a prominent midfielder for Everton F.C.

Early years

Bamidele Jermaine Alli, better known in the football world as Dele Alli, is an outstanding English attacking midfielder and one of the young promises in global football. He has a mixed heritage, as his father, Kehinde Alli, is of Nigerian origin, while his mother, Denise, is English.

In addition to being recognized for his football talent, Dele Alli has a personal history marked by the absence of his father. His father, an African prince, chose to turn his back on both him and his mother, showing little interest and disengaging from young Dele. This circumstance has influenced the footballer’s life, and it is one of the reasons why, in mid-2016, he decided to stop using the “Alli” surname on his football jersey, opting to only bear the name “Dele”.

After Dele’s birth, his father Kehinde decided to move to the United States one week later. During his early years, Dele was primarily raised by his mother, who struggled with alcoholism. At the age of nine, he moved to Nigeria to live with his father for a while. However, he later returned to Milton Keynes to live with his mother. He attended the Stantonbury campus and The Radcliffe School in Wolverton.

When he was 12 years old, Dele Alli moved in with Sally and Alan Hickford, who were the parents of a teammate at MK Dons. Although Dele refers to them as his “adoptive parents”, it is important to note that he was never legally adopted by them. Nevertheless, the Hickford family played a crucial role in his life and welcomed him into their home as one of their own.

Club career

Dele Alli began playing football at City Cols Football Club, where he trained until 2007. At the age of 11, he joined Milton Keynes Dons to complete his youth development and start playing in the junior teams.

After progressing through the youth ranks, in the 2011-2012 season, he was called up for the first time to the professional team at the tender age of 15. On November 12, 2011, his team played the first round of the FA Cup against Nantwich Town and won 6-0. In the second round, they faced Barnet, defeating them 3-1, and finally, they played against Queens Park Rangers, with whom they drew 1-1. In all three matches, Dele was called up to the squad but didn’t get a chance to play a single minute.

For the 2012-2013 season, coach Karl Robinson definitively promoted Dele Alli to the professional team, at the young age of 16. He was included in the squad from the start of the Football League One season, but initially, he didn’t get playing time, alternating between matches with the reserve team.

Dele Alli made his professional debut on November 2, 2012, when his team faced Cambridge City in the first round of the FA Cup, a match that ended in a 0-0 draw. On November 13 of that same year, in his second official match, Alli was named a starter for the first time, and he managed to score his first goal as a professional in his team’s 6-1 victory.

On December 29, 2012, he made his League One debut as a starter against Coventry City, but unfortunately, his team lost 3-2 in that encounter.

One year later, he participated in the third round of the FA Cup, where they eliminated Sheffield Wednesday after winning 2-0 in the replay match. Eventually, his team was knocked out in the round of 16, losing 3-1 to Barnsley. On the final matchday of the league, he got playing minutes again, and his team secured a 2-0 victory against Stevenage. Milton Keynes Dons finished the League One season in the eighth position, without a chance of promotion.

In the 2013-2014 season, Dele Alli scored 7 goals in 37 matches, including his first hat-trick on March 11, 2014, against Notts County.

For the 2014-2015 season, Dele Alli was part of the team that defeated Manchester United 4-0 in the second round of the League Cup on August 26, 2014. He stood out during that season, scoring 12 goals and providing 5 assists in 33 matches. His impressive talent caught the attention of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, who signed him for a fee close to 7 million euros. He was loaned back to Milton Keynes Dons to finish the season.

At the end of the season with the Dons, he achieved promotion for his team to the Football League Championship by finishing in the second position in the league. Additionally, Dele Alli scored 16 goals and provided 9 assists in 39 matches, starting in all of them. During his time at Milton Keynes Dons, the young player scored a total of 24 goals and provided 15 assists in 88 matches played.

Dele Alli joined Tottenham for the start of the 2015-2016 season. He made his professional debut in the Premier League on August 8, 2015, coming on as a substitute for Eric Dier in the 77th minute, but his team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Manchester United. On August 22 of that year, he scored his first goal for his new club in a match where Tottenham drew 1-1 with Leicester City.

On November 6, Dele Alli was nominated for the Golden Boy Award, recognizing him as one of the top 40 under-21 players in the world. However, he didn’t win the award as it went to Anthony Martial. By the end of his first season in the Premier League, he had scored 10 goals and provided nine assists in 33 matches. His goal against Crystal Palace on January 23, 2016, was chosen as the Goal of the Season by BBC Match of the Day.

For the 2016-2017 season, Dele Alli continued to excel in every match he played for Tottenham. Although he didn’t manage to secure any titles with his team, he solidified his position in the starting lineup. By the end of the season, he had scored 22 goals and provided 13 assists in 50 matches across all competitions.

Dele Alli ended his tenure with the London club on January 31, 2022, after six and a half seasons, as he was transferred to Everton F.C. He signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the new team. Initially, he played thirteen matches before being loaned to Besiktas J.K. in August.

However, Dele Alli’s arrival at Everton F.C. in the middle of the 2021-2022 season wasn’t successful, as his performance did not meet expectations. As a result, his time at the club was reduced to just 11 matches.

Besiktas J.K.

On August 25, 2022, Besiktas J.K. officially announced the signing of Dele Alli. The Turkish club agreed to a loan deal from Everton F.C. until the end of the season. Besiktas J.K. paid two million euros for this loan, with the option to acquire his economic rights permanently in January for six million euros, and eight million euros at the end of the season.

During his time in the Turkish league, Dele Alli suffered a muscular injury that required surgery. This injury forced him to undergo a period of rest, which ultimately marked the end of his season.

Photo: @dele (vía Instagram)

International career

Dele Alli has been part of the England national teams in the U17, U18, U19, and U21 categories. He played in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship 2013 elite round, where the England U17 team was eliminated in the group stage.

He was also part of the squad that competed in the qualifying round for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship 2015. England won all three matches in the qualifying round and advanced to the elite round. Despite the qualification, Dele Alli was not called up for the next phase, and England did not progress to the final tournament.

On September 7 of the same year, he made his first appearance in the qualifying stage of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2017, where England secured a 1-0 victory against Norway.

On October 1, 2015, Dele Alli received his first call-up to the senior England national team to participate in two Euro 2016 qualifying matches. He made his debut on October 9 of the same year in a match where England defeated Estonia 2-0. On October 12, he faced Lithuania, starting once again on the substitute bench and coming on as a substitute for Lallana in the 67th minute. England won the match 3-0, securing their qualification for Euro 2016.

He was called up for the following FIFA international dates to play two friendly matches. On November 17, 2015, he started for the first time and also scored his first goal for the senior England national team, leading them to a 2-0 victory over France. Thanks to his excellent performance, he was included in the 23-player squad for the Euro 2016, where England reached the round of 16.

He was consistently called up during the qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he managed to score a goal. Finally, on October 9, 2017, Dele Alli was part of the squad that confirmed England’s direct qualification to the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Personal life

In early May 2021, Dele Alli began a romantic relationship with María Guardiola, the daughter of the renowned former footballer and Spanish coach, Pep Guardiola. However, according to media reports, their relationship came to an end later that same year.

In 2022, the footballer publicly announced his relationship with the model Cindy Kimberly through social media. Currently, both celebrities are still together. Previously, the model had been romantically linked to personalities such as Justin Bieber and Formula 1 driver, Lewis Hamilton.

After returning from Turkey, the footballer went through a challenging period in his life when he discovered the need for surgery. During this time, Dele Alli was struggling with unhealthy habits, including alcohol and sleeping pill consumption, which eventually led him to seek rehabilitation.

“I was in a very bad mental state, and I decided to go to a mental health rehabilitation center. They treat addictions and traumas. I felt like it was my time”.

Heartbreaking interview with Gary Neville

Dele Alli agreed to an interview with Gary Neville for the show “The Overlap”. Once the interview was released to the public, it went viral due to the shocking revelations made. During the interview, Dele talked about his injury, his troubling addiction to sleeping pills and alcohol, his experience in rehabilitation, and shared events from his childhood that left many viewers stunned.

“It’s the most emotional, challenging, and inspiring conversation I’ve ever had in my life” – Gary Neville.

The footballer addressed the issue of the sexual abuse he suffered from a friend of his mother, who spent a lot of time in their home. After this traumatic event and due to the instability caused by his mother’s alcohol addiction, Dele was sent to Africa in order to learn discipline and find a more stable environment. Eventually, he was sent back to live with his mother.

Additionally, Dele also shared details about his experience with drugs. Surprisingly, at the age of seven, he started smoking, and just a year later, he got involved in drug trafficking. His age and appearance made him an easy target to be used as a courier, as no one would suspect an underage individual traveling on a bicycle. These revealing accounts left a profound impression on the viewers.

When he was eleven years old, Dele Alli experienced a traumatic incident where a neighbor from the neighborhood hung him from a bridge. Fortunately, the following year, he found a safe haven in the home of Sally and Alan Hickford. Dele describes this couple as incredible people who welcomed him and provided support during a crucial time in his life.

“If God created people, it was them”.

At the age of eighteen, two years after his debut in professional football, Dele Alli’s biological parents reappeared in his life, showing an interest that went beyond simply reconnecting with their son. Unfortunately, instead of establishing a positive connection, they sought to sow discord in the relationship between the footballer and his adoptive parents, accusing them of taking advantage.

It was at the age of 24 when Dele Alli began to struggle with an addiction to sleeping pills, using them for purposes other than their original intent. He started consuming these sedatives early in the morning, on his rest days, seeking an emotional escape. Regrettably, the emotional burden carried by the footballer became overwhelming, causing him to lose control over the consumption of pills, in addition to adding alcohol to the mix.

The audience could only witness the change in his performance without questioning what was really happening off the pitch. Dele Alli was labeled as lazy and careless, and the criticism intensified to the point where the player seriously considered the possibility of retiring at a young age. However, there was much more behind his apparent decline that deserved to be understood.

Individual Awards

PFA Young Player of the Year for Football League One in 2015.
PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 2016, 2017.
PFA Premier League Young Player of the Year: 2016, 2017.
Named one of the top 100 footballers in the world (#75) by FourFourTwo in 2016.
Named one of the top 100 footballers in the world (#90) by The Guardian in 2016.
PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 2017.
PFA Premier League Young Player of the Year: 2017.

American Football

Travis Kelce

Travis Kelce, vía Instagram

Travis Kelce Biography

Travis Michael Kelce (October 5, 1989) is an American football player born in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, United States. He is known for being the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and is regarded as one of the NFL’s best.

Early years

Travis Kelce is an American football player born in Ohio, United States. He comes from a family where his father, Ed Kelce, worked as a sales representative, while his mother, Donna Kelce, had a previous career in banking as an executive. Additionally, he is the younger brother of Jason Kelce, who is also a prominent American football player.

He attended Cleveland Heights High School, where Travis Kelce actively participated in a variety of sports during his school years, including baseball, American football and basketball.

Beginnings

During his school years, Travis Kelce showcased his excellence in American football. As the quarterback for The Tigers, he excelled for three consecutive years and earned recognition with All-Lake Erie League honors. In his senior year, he achieved an impressive total of 2,539 offensive yards. Additionally, he ran for 1,016 rushing yards and scored 10 rushing touchdowns, while passing for 1,523 passing yards, tallying 21 passing touchdowns, despite facing eight interceptions in the 2007 season.

Upon commencing his college life, Travis Kelce enrolled at the University of Cincinnati, where he joined the football team, the Cincinnati Bearcats. One of the key reasons that led him to choose this institution was the presence of his older brother, who was already studying there and playing as the left guard for the Bearcats.

University Incident

In his first season in 2008, Kelce saw action in 11 games, playing various roles, including tight end and quarterback in the Wildcat formation. That year, he managed eight carries for a total of 47 yards and scored two touchdowns, in addition to one reception for three yards. However, the following season was overshadowed by a suspension due to a team rules violation. This suspension stemmed from Kelce failing a drug test, testing positive for marijuana.

At this critical moment, the presence of his older brother, Jason, assumed an essential role. Jason intervened with the coach on Travis’s behalf, pledging to look after his younger brother and keep him away from trouble, keeping him focused on the game. It is rumored that even during that time, Jason improvised a bed next to his own to be able to watch over and support his brother closely.

This strategic approach bore fruit when, following a one-year suspension, Travis Kelce experienced two consecutive truly outstanding seasons. However, it was his final college season that shone the brightest. During this culminating period, he managed to establish impressive personal records: catching 45 passes, amassing 722 receiving yards, maintaining an outstanding average of 16.0 yards per reception, and scoring 8 touchdowns. Not only that, but he also earned well-deserved first-team honors in all conferences, solidifying his remarkable career in college football.

Career

Travis Kelce joined the Kansas City Chiefs as a third-round selection, picked 63rd overall during the 2013 draft. His commitment to the team was officially sealed on June 6, 2013, when he signed a 4-year contract valued at over 3 million dollars, including a generous signing bonus of 700 thousand dollars.

Travis Kelce has spent ten years in the NFL, and during this time, he has amassed a series of notable achievements. Starting with his career with the Kansas City Chiefs, the team secured two Wild Card playoff berths in the 2013-2014 and 2015-2016 seasons. In 2014, they had an exhilarating game against the Colts that ended in a 45-44 defeat. In 2016, they swept past the Texans with a score of 30-0 but then fell to the Patriots by 27-20.

Kelce’s consistent growth as a standout player led to a contract renewal in late January 2016. On this occasion, he agreed to a 5-year extension worth an impressive total of 46 million dollars, further solidifying his pivotal role in the team and his contribution to the Chiefs’ success.

As for his personal statistics, Kelce has accumulated an impressive total of 10,344 receiving yards through the air and has scored an astonishing 69 touchdowns. His NFL success currently places him fourth on the list of receiving yards by tight ends in the league.

Two-Time Super Bowl Champion: LIV and LVII

In terms of more recent achievements, in the 2019-2020 season, Travis Kelce became the champion of Super Bowl LIV when the Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers with a score of 31-20. Then, in the 2022-2023 season, he secured the title of Super Bowl LVII champion by defeating the Philadelphia Eagles, the team where his brother Jason Kelce plays. His NFL career continues to soar, and his legacy in professional American football promises to keep growing in the years to come.

Personal life

Alongside his brother, Travis Kelce co-hosts a podcast titled “New Heights Show”.

The love life of the American football player has always been a subject of interest. It is known that he has been linked to one of the iconic pop figures, Taylor Swift. The singer was seen in Travis Kelce’s family suite, accompanied by Donna, the player’s mother.

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift

The beginning of this story and the connection between these two celebrities trace back to early July 2023 when Taylor Swift performed at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. At the end of that same month, Travis shared on his podcast with Jason that he attended Taylor Swift’s concert and wrote his personal number on a friendship bracelet, one of those typically shared among fans and the singer at her concerts. However, unfortunately, this action did not lead to any concrete relationship.

Rumors of a possible relationship between both celebrities began circulating on the internet on September 12th. Despite having been seen together on several occasions, neither Travis Kelce nor Taylor Swift have officially confirmed their relationship at present.

F1 Drivers

Oscar Piastri

Oscar Piastri, vía Instagram

Oscar Piastri Biography

Oscar Jack Piastri (April 6, 2001) is a Formula 1 driver born in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. He has garnered recognition as one of the youngest drivers on the Formula 1 grid, and he is affectionately nicknamed “The Prodigy Kid”.

Early years

Oscar Piastri is an Australian Formula 1 driver. He is the son of Chris Piastri and Nicole Piastri, of Italian origin.

From a young age, the little Piastri showed his interest in cars. In fact, his favorite bedtime stories were about “Cars”. His parents began to notice his fascination with engines and decided to support him in this.

At the age of six, he started becoming a remote-controlled car enthusiast. So much so that he participated in national remote-controlled car competitions.

Photo: @oscarpiastri (vía Instagram)

Beginnings: Karting, Formula 4, Formula 3, and Formula 2

Oscar Piastri started in karting, standing out from a young age. He won several national championships in Australia. Later, his family moved to England to support his career. In 2016, he transitioned to single-seater Formula 4 racing in the United Arab Emirates, achieving multiple podium finishes. In 2017, in the British Formula 4 championship, he secured six victories and finished as the runner-up behind Jamie Caroline and ahead of Logan Sargeant.

In 2018, Oscar Piastri entered Formula Renault 2.0, earning three podiums in his debut season. The following year, he competed again in the same category and clinched the championship title.

However, it was in the 2020 season when his talent truly shone. Taking part in the thrilling FIA Formula 3 Championship, he showcased exceptional performance that led him to clinch the title. His ability to maintain consistency, speed, and tackle challenges on the track stood out and captured the attention of the motorsport world. In an exciting season finale, he secured the championship with just two victories.

In early 2021, Alpine made the decision to include Piastri in their academy, providing him with a significant opportunity to benefit from the extensive testing program designed for Fernando Alonso’s return to Formula 1. In the same season, Oscar Piastri moved up to Formula 2, where he joined the Prema Racing team.

His performance in Formula 2 was outstanding, securing six victories and showcasing even greater mastery than in Formula 3. With a remarkable display, Piastri clinched the championship in this category.

His Move to Formula 1

Following his triumph in Formula 2, regulations do not allow him to continue in the same category after his victory, and with no available seat in Formula 1, Oscar accepts the role of a reserve driver at the Alpine team. However, a promising opportunity arises as McLaren and Alpine reach an agreement for Piastri to take on the role of a reserve driver within the British racing team.

Alpine had plans for an agreement with Williams for Piastri to make his debut as a full-time Formula 1 driver in 2023. However, the unexpected move of Fernando Alonso to Aston Martin altered the situation, and Alpine confirmed him as a regular driver for that season. Surprisingly, Oscar Piastri turned down this offer in a critical message towards Alpine that no one anticipated.

“I understand that, without my agreement, Alpine F1 have put out a press release late this afternoon that I am driving for them next year. This is wrong and I have not signed a contract with Alpine for 2023. I will not be driving for Alpine next year”.

Formula 1

McLaren: 2023-Present

Piastri successfully reached a direct agreement with the McLaren team, with whom he had already carried out prior simulation tasks. In this way, Oscar would join Lando Norris at the McLaren team for the 2023 season. However, unfortunate legal complications arose due to the dispute between McLaren and Alpine.

Ultimately, a court validated Piastri’s contract with McLaren over Alpine’s. While the French team did not achieve the outcome they were hoping for, they sought financial compensation for the investment they had made in the development of the young Australian driver.

Oscar Piastri made his debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he started strongly in the eighth position. Unfortunately, he retired on the fourteenth lap due to a steering wheel issue that prevented his car from restarting.

So far this season, Piastri has had a notable performance by finishing fifth in the Hungarian Grand Prix. He began from the fourth position and even reached second place before the first pit stops.

At the Belgian Grand Prix, his performance continued to impress as he secured the second position in qualifying for the sprint race, trailing just 0.011 seconds behind polesitter Max Verstappen. This marked his best starting position up to that point. During the sprint, he showcased his prowess by overtaking Max Verstappen in the pits and leading a Formula 1 race for the first time in his career. Despite his brilliant start in Belgium, his luck took a drastic turn in the fourth lap when a spin by Fernando Alonso triggered a safety car, allowing Verstappen to pass him on the Kemmel Straight. Despite this setback, Piastri demonstrated his potential and skill in Formula 1.

During the Belgian GP, Piastri was involved in a collision with Spanish driver Carlos Sainz, leading to both of them being knocked out of the race. In post-race interviews and statements, Sainz attributed the mistake to the Australian, labeling it as optimistic and inexperienced.

McLaren: Piastri’s Teammates

Teammates that Oscar Piastri had at McLaren during his Formula 1 career with the team:

Lando Norris (2023-Present): Oscar joined to replace Daniel Ricciardo at McLaren due to his underperformance. Since his arrival, the driver has established a strong working chemistry with Lando.

Oscar Piastri: 2023 season

In the thrilling ongoing 2023 Formula 1 season, the talented Australian driver Oscar Piastri currently holds the eleventh position with 34 points, having secured 0 wins and achieved 0 podiums. The leaders of this season so far are Max Verstappen, Sergio Pérez, and Fernando Alonso, who have showcased their skills on the track and occupy the top positions in the championship.

Photo: @oscarpiastri (vía Instagram)

Personal life

The driver is very private about his personal and intimate life. Since 2022, he has been romantically linked with Lily Zneimer. They have been seen together at various events, enjoying their relationship and appearing happy. Oscar Piastri seems to enjoy keeping his love life private.

Facts about Oscar Piastri

His racing number is 81.
His parents are of Italian descent.
He stands at 5 feet 10 inches tall.
He has sisters, but more information about them is unknown.
He started in Karting at the age of 9.

F1 Drivers

Charles Leclerc

Charles Leclerc, vía Instagram

Charles Leclerc Biography

Charles Marc Hervé Perceval Leclerc (October 16, 1997), better known as Charles Leclerc, is a Formula 1 driver hailing from Monte Carlo, Monaco. He is an automotive prodigy who dominates the track with his dazzling talent. With an innate skill, Leclerc has left an indelible mark on Formula 1.

Early years

Charles Marc Hervé Perceval Leclerc, known as Charles Leclerc, was born in Monaco. He is the second child of Hervé and Pascale Leclerc. His father was a racing driver in his youth and the founder of the French automotive parts manufacturer Mecaplast, while his mother is a hairdresser and owner of a beauty salon located in the Principality of Monaco. He has two brothers: Lorenzo, the eldest, holds a degree in administration and business, and Arthur, the youngest, is currently a Formula 2 driver.

He studied at Lycée Albert 1er in Monaco, where he completed his secondary education.

Leclerc’s father, who had experience up to Formula 3, played a fundamental role in his motivation and in instilling his passion for motorsport. As a result, Charles’s first steps in the world of racing took place at Philippe Bianchi’s track, a French friend of his father, located in Brignoles, a town between Nice and Marseille. Philippe is the father of Jules Bianchi, a driver who was eight years older than the young Leclerc, and they established a strong friendship.

Photo: @charles_leclerc (vía Instagram)

Beginnings: Karting, Formula Renault 2.0, Formula 3 and Formula 2

Charles Leclerc started his career in karting at the age of 8 and quickly excelled in the sport. He won multiple championships in Monaco and abroad, establishing his reputation as a young promise in motorsport.

By mid-2010, Hervé realized that he didn’t have enough money for his son to finish the karting season. At that moment, Charles received support from his close friend, Jules Bianchi, who reached out to his manager, Nicolas Todt, the director of All Road Management, a company that represents drivers. Nicolas Todt provided assistance to help Charles Leclerc move forward in his racing career.

In 2011, he became the karting world champion in the KF3 category. Leclerc has also competed in other categories, such as KF2, where he achieved significant victories. His talent in karting caught the attention of the motorsport industry, and he became a member of the ARM company.

Charles Leclerc began his single-seater career in the Formula Renault 2.0 Alps Championship with the Fortec Motorsports team in 2014. In that season, he secured seven podium finishes, including a double victory in Monza, which allowed him to finish second in the championship. Additionally, he won the Best Rookie award in the last race of the season in Jerez. Charles also participated in some races of the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup as a guest driver with Fortec Motorsports, obtaining three second-place podiums at Nürburgring and two second places at Hungaroring.

In 2015, Charles Leclerc took his first steps in Formula 3, competing in the European Formula 3 Championship. He had an excellent start to the season, securing a victory and two podiums in the opening round at Silverstone, followed by another win at Hockenheimring. Although the results were not as remarkable in the following races, Leclerc won the Rookie Championship title in that championship.

In the last month of 2015, Charles Leclerc had the opportunity to participate in evaluation tests with the ART Grand Prix and Arden International teams. The following year, in February 2016, his entry as a driver for the season was confirmed. ART Grand Prix placed their bet on him, and at the end of the competition, Leclerc was crowned champion after securing three victories and surpassing the second-placed driver, Alexander Albon, with a comfortable 25-point lead.

In March 2016, it was announced that Charles Leclerc would join the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy as one of their two drivers. His skill and determination caught the attention of Ferrari, one of the most iconic Formula 1 teams, signing him for their young driver program. Additionally, he was given the role of development driver for both Haas F1 Team and Scuderia Ferrari. As part of his position as a third driver, Leclerc had the opportunity to participate in practice sessions for four Grand Prix races throughout the season.

For 2017, Charles Leclerc competed in the Formula 2 Championship with the Prema team. He won two of the first four races but faced difficulties at the Monaco round. However, he secured victories in Baku, Spielberg, and Silverstone. In October, he clinched the championship by winning the 19th race of the season, adding up to a total of six wins, with three races still to go.

Formula 1

Sauber: 2018

Leclerc was promoted to Formula 1 in 2018 as a driver for Sauber, currently known as Alfa Romeo. During his rookie season, he impressed everyone with his speed and driving skills, achieving notable results and outperforming his teammate on several occasions.

Charles Leclerc had an impressive start to the season, matching his teammate Marcus Ericsson’s points tally in just 8 races, despite Ericsson having competed in 83 races previously. His standout performances, such as reaching Q3 and qualifying in eighth place in France, as well as his sixth-place finish in Azerbaijan, sparked rumors of a potential move to Scuderia Ferrari. Furthermore, at the Red Bull Ring, Leclerc contributed to Sauber securing a notable result with both drivers in the points, something that had not happened since early 2015.

Sauber: Leclerc’s Teammates

The teammates that Charles Leclerc had at Sauber during his Formula 1 career with this team were as follows:

Marcus Ericsson (2018): Leclerc made his Formula 1 debut in the 2018 season alongside Marcus Ericsson as his teammate at Sauber.

Scuderia Ferrari: 2019-Present

In 2019, Charles Leclerc fulfilled his dream by joining the main team of Ferrari in Formula 1. Although he had an adaptation period in his first year, he proved his worth with impressive performances, including his first victory at the Belgian Grand Prix. His aggressive driving style and ability to handle pressure made him one of the most exciting and promising drivers on the grid.

Since his arrival at Ferrari, Leclerc has made a mark. In 2020, despite the challenges of the less competitive Ferrari, he secured a second place in Austria and continued to add podium finishes throughout the season. In 2021, he started a new chapter with Carlos Sainz as his teammate, achieving pole positions in Monaco and Baku, and securing his first Grand Chelem at the 2022 Australian GP.

Leclerc’s talent and determination were once again evident in 2023 when he secured pole position at the Azerbaijan GP in the thrilling new race format. His trajectory at Ferrari has been a constant ascent, establishing himself as one of the brightest stars in Formula 1.

In 2023, Ferrari’s drivers have faced setbacks with the team and technicians, which has negatively impacted the performance of Leclerc and Sainz Jr. Recently, the team has shown deficiencies in managing various situations. An example of this occurred during the qualifying session for the Canadian Grand Prix when Charles requested a tire change during his pit stop. However, the Ferrari team denied his request, citing that Max Verstappen, a driver from Red Bull Racing, had not done so yet. As a result, Leclerc missed out on the starting grid. However, due to a penalty imposed on his teammate Carlos Sainz, Charles Leclerc managed to advance to the tenth position, securing a place within the top ten.

Ferrari: Leclerc’s Teammates

The teammates that Charles Leclerc had at Ferrari during his Formula 1 career with this team were as follows:

Sebastian Vettel (2019-2020): Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel were teammates at Ferrari for two seasons. During this time, there were moments of close competition and rivalry between the two drivers.
Carlos Sainz Jr. (2021-Present): Leclerc shared the team with Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr. at Ferrari. Both drivers have formed a young and talented duo during this period, becoming fan favorites both on and off the circuits.

Charles Leclerc: 2023 season

In the thrilling ongoing 2023 Formula 1 season, the talented Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc currently holds the seventh position with 80 points, having achieved 0 wins and secured 2 podiums. The leaders of this season so far are Max Verstappen, Sergio Pérez, and Fernando Alonso, who have showcased their skill on the track and are occupying the top positions in the championship.

Photo: @charles_leclerc (vía Instagram)

Personal life

Charles Leclerc, the talented Formula 1 driver, has had romantic relationships that have captured the attention of the media and followers. For three years, he was in a relationship with the Monegasque model and influencer, Charlotte Siné. However, in December 2022, both celebrities publicly announced the end of their romance through a statement shared on social media.

Before his relationship with Charlotte, Leclerc had a girlfriend named Giana Gianni, affectionately known as Gigi. Their relationship lasted for about four years but came to an end in September 2019. According to what Gigi shared on her social media, the breakup was due to Charles wanting to focus on his professional career. Interestingly, just a month later, the driver was already in a new relationship and publicly displaying it on social media.

The surprising part is that Leclerc’s new girlfriend turned out to be none other than Charlotte Siné, who shockingly happened to be one of Gigi’s best friends.

2023: New Relationship

Charles Leclerc is currently in a relationship with Alexandra Saint-Mleux. The official confirmation of their romance took place in May 2023, although there had been speculation about their bond for several months before, as they had been seen together on various occasions, including during Paris Fashion Week.

Alexandra Saint-Mleux is nearly five years younger than Leclerc. She is a student of Art History in Paris, France.

Father of Charles Leclerc

Charles Leclerc has faced challenges both on and off the circuits. Unfortunately, in June 2017, his father lost his life after bravely battling cancer. This tragic loss has left a deep impact on Leclerc’s life.

During his stay in Monaco for the Grand Prix, as an emotional tribute to his father, Charles and his family took a photo alongside the helmet his father used to wear. It’s important to note that his father was his biggest supporter and a crucial pillar in his racing career. Despite his absence, Hervé couldn’t witness his son’s debut or see him become a part of Formula 1.

Photo: @charles_leclerc (vía Instagram)

Tragedies: Deaths of Loved Ones.

The Passing of Jules Bianchi: One of the most impactful tragedies in Leclerc’s career was the death of his friend and mentor, Jules Bianchi. Bianchi, also a Formula 1 driver, suffered a serious accident during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix and remained in a coma for nine months before passing away in July 2015. Bianchi’s loss was a devastating blow to Leclerc, who saw Jules as an older brother and a source of inspiration in his career.
The Passing of His Father: In June 2017, Charles Leclerc experienced another tragic loss with the passing of his father, Hervé Leclerc. Hervé had been a pivotal figure in supporting and nurturing Charles’ racing career, and his sudden death deeply affected the Monegasque driver.
Fatal Accident of Anthoine Hubert: During the Formula 2 race at Spa-Francorchamps in August 2019, a serious accident occurred involving several drivers, including Anthoine Hubert. Sadly, Hubert lost his life in the incident. Leclerc, who had been a teammate of Hubert in the lower categories, was deeply affected by the loss of his friend and rival.

Filmography

Charles Leclerc has appeared in several visual works, including:

“Lightyear” (2022): Charles Leclerc provided his voice for the Italian dubbing, for a cameo in the “Toy Story” spin-off, “Lightyear”. He portrays one of the two guards sent to take away Sox the cat. In the Spanish (Spain) dubbing, the same character was covered by Carlos Sainz.
“Formula 1: Drive to Survive” (2023): This series covers various aspects of Formula 1, both on and off the track. It follows Charles Leclerc’s journey from his time at Sauber (now Alfa Romeo) to his current involvement with Scuderia Ferrari. In addition to Leclerc, the series delves into all the drivers, their teams, and the racing stables in depth.

Discography

Musical works in which Charles Leclerc has participated:

Singles

“AUS23 (1:1)” (2023).
“MIA23 (1:2)” (2023).

Facts about Charles Leclerc

His racing number is 16.
He is the second-youngest driver to debut with Scuderia Ferrari.
His favorite food is tortellini pasta.
He enjoys playing paddle tennis.
His nickname Lord Perceval was given to him by his Ferrari teammate, Carlos Sainz Jr., who considered the name suited him well.
He is a music enthusiast.
He plays the piano and has released his own songs.
One of his inspirations in F1 was Ayrton Senna.
One of his favorite TV series is “La Casa de Papel”.
During the pandemic, he streamed on Twitch with several other drivers, including Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Alex Albon, and George Russell.
He speaks Italian, French, English, and some Spanish.
There is an iconic video of an interview from his youth where Charles pronounces the phrase “Nothing, just an incident on the race” in a peculiar way. This famous moment occurred after an incident on the track with Max Verstappen. Leclerc’s unique gestures and pronunciation caught everyone’s attention, leading to its viral spread.
In Italy, his Richard Mille watch, valued at $325,000, was stolen. Charles Leclerc chased the thieves across Italy in his Ferrari.

F1 Drivers

Carlos Sainz Jr

Carlos Sainz, vía Instagram

Carlos Sainz Jr Biography

Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro (September 1, 1994), better known as Carlos Sainz or Carlos Sainz Jr., is a Formula 1 driver, born in Madrid, Spain. Recognized worldwide for his success on the most demanding circuits, this Spanish driver has managed to forge his own path in motorsport, defying the expectations imposed by his surname, his father’s fame, and career. Sainz Jr. has carved an impressive career on his own merit.

Early years

Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro, also known as Carlos Sainz or Carlos Sainz Jr., was born in Madrid, Spain. He is the son of the famous rally driver and two-time champion, Carlos Sainz, and Reyes Vázquez de Castro. He has two sisters, Blanca, who is the eldest, and Ana, who is his younger sister by four years.

His full name is Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro Cenamor Rincón Rebollo Birto Moreno de Aranda de Anteruriaga Tiapera Deltún.

During his childhood, Carlos Jr. grew up surrounded by the world of motorsport, as his father and uncle are car racers. When Carlos was two years old, his father discovered him performing Scandinavian flicks in his electric cart. From a very young age, he showed great interest in motorsports. At the age of 8, he began competing in karting, a discipline that would help him develop his skills as a driver.

Carlos Sainz Jr. studied at the British Council School, where he learned English. His family wanted him to pursue a university degree, even though his true passion was to become an F1 driver. He opted to study art history, but his primary focus was always on motorsport.

Karting

In his early years in karting, Carlos Sainz Jr. showed exceptional talent and managed to stand out in several national and international competitions. His performance caught the attention of experts in motorsport, who saw in him a promising future in single-seater racing.

Carlos Sainz Jr. took his first steps in the world of karting in 2006, under the guidance of his father. Quickly, he began to achieve outstanding results, securing the third position in the Minikarts Industrie Tournament. In 2008, at the age of 14, Carlos reached a significant milestone by winning the Asia-Pacific KF3 title and obtaining the runner-up position in the Spanish KF3 Championship. His talent continued to shine in 2009, as he became the champion in the renowned Monaco Kart Cup Junior. Additionally, he once again secured the runner-up position in both the European KF3 Championship and the Spanish KF3 Championship. These impressive achievements opened the doors for him to join the Red Bull Junior Team, a crucial milestone in his career.

Photo: @carlossainz55 (vía Instagram)

Formula BMW Europe, Formula Renault 2.0, and Formula 3 Euroseries.

In 2010, when Carlos Sainz Jr. was 15 years old, he made the leap to single-seaters by joining the EuroInternational team in the Formula BMW Europe. During his first season in the category, he showed impressive performance and managed to win the award for the best rookie driver of the year, finishing in fourth place in the championship. This opened the doors for him to continue advancing in his career. Additionally, he simultaneously participated in the Formula BMW Asia-Pacific, where he wasn’t eligible for points, but secured three notable victories. One of them took place in November at the legendary Macau circuit, where he achieved the pole position and led the entire race.

In the following years, Sainz Jr. continued his progression in the lower categories of motorsport. He competed in Formula Renault 2.0 and in the Formula 3 Euroseries, where he achieved good results and earned the respect of his rivals and fans.

Formula 1

Toro Rosso: 2015-2017

Carlos Sainz Jr. joined the Toro Rosso team in the 2015 Formula 1 season. He was selected as a full-time driver alongside his teammate, Max Verstappen, forming one of the youngest pairings in Formula 1 history.

During his first season with Toro Rosso, Sainz Jr. showcased great talent and skill behind the wheel. He quickly adapted to the pace of Formula 1 and achieved notable results in several races. His most outstanding performance came at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he finished in an impressive fifth position on the grid, earning valuable points for the team.

In the third free practice session of the Russian GP, Carlos Sainz suffered a shocking accident that unfortunately forced him to miss the qualifying session. Fortunately, Sainz did not sustain serious injuries and was able to participate in the race. However, due to a brake issue, he was once again forced to retire.

During his second season in 2016, Sainz Jr. continued to accumulate points and showcase his speed and skill on the track. Once again, he achieved notable results, including a sixth-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix and a seventh-place finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

In the 2017 season, Carlos Sainz Jr. remained with Toro Rosso until the United States Grand Prix, at which point he was loaned to the Renault team to complete the season. Despite this team change, Sainz Jr. left a significant mark at Toro Rosso, and his performance was recognized by the motorsport community.

Toro Rosso: Sainz’s Teammates

Carlos Sainz Jr.’s teammates at Toro Rosso during his Formula 1 career with this team were:

Max Verstappen (2015-2016): Carlos Sainz Jr. shared the team with Max Verstappen at Toro Rosso. Both made their Formula 1 debut that year and formed a young and talented pairing. After a season and a half, Max moved from Toro Rosso to Red Bull Racing.
Daniil Kvyat (2016-2017): Sainz was teammates with Russian driver Daniil Kvyat at Toro Rosso. Kvyat returned to Toro Rosso after being demoted from Red Bull Racing. That year, Sainz was transferred to Renault.

Renault: 2017-2018

In 2017, Carlos Sainz was transferred to Renault as a replacement for British driver Jolyon Palmer, starting from the United States Grand Prix. In his debut with the French team, he achieved an impressive seventh-place finish. Throughout the season, Sainz stood out, securing the ninth position in the championship, surpassing all of his teammates.

In the 2018 season, Carlos Sainz finished in the tenth position in the championship, trailing behind his teammate Nico Hulkenberg, who secured the seventh place. His best race result was a fifth-place finish in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Sainz managed to complete 19 out of the 21 Grand Prix races in the 2018 season but was forced to retire in the British GP due to a collision with the driver Romain Grosjean and in the Mexican GP due to suspension issues. That was his final season with Renault.

Renault: Sainz’s Teammates

Carlos Sainz Jr.’s teammate at Renault during his Formula 1 career with this team was:

Nico Hülkenberg (2017-2018): Carlos Sainz Jr. shared the team with German driver Nico Hülkenberg at Renault. Both drivers were part of the Renault team during that season.

McLaren: 2019-2020

Carlos Sainz joined McLaren after leaving the Renault team, becoming teammates with Lando Norris. In his first season, he had a challenging start with retirements and a collision, but he later managed to qualify in the points in almost every race, surpassing Pierre Gasly’s Red Bull. He stood out by achieving his first podium at the Brazilian GP, starting from the last position. Sainz became the second driver to accomplish this feat and did so in 101 Grand Prix races, surpassing Martin Brundle’s record. He finished the season in sixth place, being the best driver after Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull.

For the 2020 Formula 1 season, Carlos experienced ups and downs in the early races, notably achieving a fifth-place finish in Austria and a ninth-place finish in the second race. He faced challenges with slow pit stops and punctures but managed a remarkable second-place finish at the Italian Grand Prix. He also had tough moments, like accidents in the first lap during the races in Tuscany and Russia. However, he bounced back and finished in the top seven in the final races, helping McLaren secure third place in the constructors’ championship.

Sainz concluded the season in sixth position in the drivers’ championship, trailing behind the leading teams. By mid-year, Sainz had already been signed by Scuderia Ferrari, making this his final season with McLaren.

McLaren: Sainz’s Teammates

Carlos Sainz Jr.’s teammate at McLaren during his Formula 1 career with this team was:

Lando Norris (2019-2020): Carlos Sainz Jr. shared the team with British driver Lando Norris at McLaren. Both drivers formed a young and talented pairing during that period.

Scuderia Ferrari: 2021-Present

In May 2020, Carlos Sainz Jr. was confirmed as a full-time driver for Scuderia Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. In his debut with Ferrari, he had ups and downs in the early races, securing an impressive second-place finish at the Monaco GP. Throughout the season, Sainz showed consistency and achieved two more podiums in Hungary and Russia. In the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi, he finished in third place, surpassing his teammate and Lando Norris in the drivers’ championship, concluding in the fifth position.

The 2022 season was a significant breakthrough for Ferrari, as they returned to the fight for victories and the championship. Carlos Sainz achieved remarkable results, securing podium finishes in several races, including his first-ever victory at the British Grand Prix, where he also clinched the pole position. This triumph made him the second Spanish driver to achieve such a feat, following in the footsteps of Fernando Alonso. In this season, Sainz finished in fifth place in the Drivers’ Championship, while Ferrari secured the second position in the Constructors’ Championship.

In 2023, Carlos Sainz has faced challenges alongside his teammate Leclerc at Ferrari, due to setbacks with the team and technicians that have affected their performance. Recently, the team has shown deficiencies in managing several situations. An example of this occurred during qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix when Sainz’s teammate requested a tire change during his pit stop. Unfortunately, the Ferrari team denied this request, arguing that Max Verstappen, a driver from Red Bull Racing, had not yet done so. As a result, Leclerc was excluded from the starting grid. However, due to a penalty imposed on Carlos Sainz, his teammate Charles Leclerc managed to advance to the tenth position, securing a spot among the top ten.

Ferrari: Sainz’s Teammates

Carlos Sainz Jr.’s teammate at Ferrari during his Formula 1 career with this team was:

Charles Leclerc (2021-Present): Carlos Sainz Jr. shared the team with the Monegasque driver, Charles Leclerc, at Ferrari. Both drivers have formed a young and talented pairing during this period, becoming a favorite duo among spectators, both on and off the circuits.

Carlos Sainz: 2023 season

In the thrilling ongoing 2023 Formula 1 season, the talented Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr. currently holds the sixth position with 87 points, having achieved 0 wins and 0 podiums. The leaders of this season so far are Max Verstappen, Sergio Pérez, and Fernando Alonso, who have showcased their prowess on the track and are at the top positions in the championship.

Photo: @carlossainz55 (vía Instagram)

Personal life

Carlos Sainz Jr. had his first girlfriend at the age of 13, maintaining a relationship with her for four years and sharing their first experiences together. The driver has mentioned that he has been emotionally involved with someone for most of his life. However, he considers himself not particularly affectionate and loving in general, reserving those expressions for private moments with his partner and close ones.

Carlos Sainz was in a relationship with Isabel Hernáez, also known as Isa Hernáez. They met through mutual friends, and it was Carlos who was attracted to Isa from the beginning. The relationship was the subject of many rumors, with some considering them the perfect couple, while others claimed it was marked by deceit and infidelity. Although the exact circumstances that led to the end of their relationship are not publicly known, unfortunately, after six years together, their love came to an end. As of now, neither of them has made any statements about the reasons behind this decision.

There were opinions among Carlos Sainz’s fans and followers that pointed to Isa Hernáez as responsible for leaking information about her then-boyfriend’s family. It was rumored that from an Isa Hernáez fan page, all the details of Carlos’s younger sister Ana Sainz’s wedding were leaked. From the date and location to the details of the bridesmaids’ dresses, it all seemed to have been leaked. Additionally, there were rumors that Isa was the one contacting magazines and paparazzi to take photographs and publish articles about Carlos and her, as well as exposing pictures of the Sainz family that no one else had or captured. However, it is important to highlight that these claims are merely speculations, and there is no official confirmation of their accuracy.

Filmography

Carlos Sainz has appeared in several visual works, including:

“Sainz: Living to Compete” (2021): This series explores the life and career of Carlos Sainz Jr.’s father during that time. It offers glimpses of the F1 driver alongside his father and family.
“Lightyear” (2022): Carlos Sainz provided his voice for the Spanish dub of a cameo in the “Toy Story” spin-off, “Lightyear”. He portrays one of the two guards sent to take away Sox the cat. The same character in the Italian dub was covered by Charles Leclerc.
“Formula 1: Drive to Survive” (2023): This series covers various aspects of Formula 1, both on and off the track. It follows Carlos Sainz’s journey from his time at Renault to his current involvement with Scuderia Ferrari. In addition to Sainz, the series delves deep into all the drivers, their teams, and their respective scuderias.

Facts about Carlos Sainz Jr.

He loves to eat, and some of his favorite foods are hamburgers and pizza.
He is fluent in Spanish, Italian, and English.
He enjoys playing golf.
He doesn’t think of any other profession beyond being an F1 driver.
During his childhood and youth, he greatly admired Rafael Nadal, Michael Jordan, and Fernando Alonso.
He studied art history.
One of his favorite movies is “The Wolf of Wall Street”.
In an interview, he said he doesn’t have a specific type of woman he likes; he prefers them to be normal. In the same interview, he admitted to being bottom team.
He is a fan of Real Madrid.
His favorite character in Mario Kart is Yoshi.
He is known as Smooth Operator after a video of him singing this song during a competition was leaked.
He is a big fan of the American director, Quentin Tarantino.
His racing helmet always features the flag of Spain and the Virgin of Pilar.
His favorite number is 5.
He somewhat identifies with meerkats.
He’s not a big fan of spicy food.
His favorite burger preparation includes bacon, cheese, caramelized onions, and lettuce.
He has a dog named Piñón.

Sport

Linda Caicedo

Linda Caicedo, vía Instagram

Linda Caicedo Biography

Linda Lizeth Caicedo Alegría (February 22, 2005), internationally recognized as Linda Caicedo, is a professional footballer hailing from Candelaria, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. She is renowned for being the forward of Real Madrid C.F.

Early years

Linda Caicedo, the distinguished Colombian professional footballer, has always carried the love for football in her heart since she was a little girl. Accompanied by the encouragement of her parents, Mauricio Caicedo and Herlinda Alegría, Linda pursued her dream with passion and determination. Despite Real Juanchito FC, the school she attended, being primarily oriented towards boys, her skills and dedication led her to become a role model for young female footballers.

It was during this crucial time that Linda perfected her dribbling and shooting skills. This formative period became of utmost importance for the player, who confidently asserts that many of the abilities she possesses today were acquired at that school.

Beginnings

At the age of 10, Linda took her first steps in women’s football by joining the prestigious club Generaciones Palmiranas, known for nurturing prominent figures in Colombian football. During that time, the coach of the senior women’s national team, Felipe Taborda, had the opportunity to witness Linda Caicedo’s talent firsthand. Just a year later, Linda was transferred to Club Deportivo Atlas C.P. a football team founded in Cali by the player Carolina Pineda.

Linda shone in national tournaments, becoming the top scorer on multiple occasions. Additionally, two years later, she stood out in the Selección Valle, earning championships and goals. All of this propelled her towards a professional football career.

Career

Linda Caicedo made her debut in professional football with the team América de Cali, thanks to the recommendation of Carolina Pineda to Marcela Gómez, president of the women’s team. Despite her young age, Linda demonstrated impressive skills that prepared her for the professional game. On July 15, 2019, at just 14 years old and wearing the number 15 jersey, she made her professional debut against Cortuluá. She entered the match in the 74th minute and quickly showcased her charm on the field. Linda Caicedo finished that league as the top scorer. However, she couldn’t participate in the Copa Libertadores Femenina that year due to the regulation stipulating that players must be at least 16 years old, and at that time, the forward was only 14 years old.

In the first quarter of 2020, the young footballer changed teams and joined the azucareras of Deportivo Cali for three seasons. Her first year with the green and white team was not particularly outstanding, scoring only three goals. However, in 2021, she achieved her second national title and made her debut in the Copa Libertadores Femenina, scoring four goals, although the Cali team was eliminated in the quarter-finals.

2023: Real Madrid C.F.

In February 2023, just two days after reaching the age of majority, Linda Caicedo confirmed her incorporation into Real Madrid, becoming the first Colombian to join the women’s team of this prestigious Spanish club. She made her debut with the merengue team a week after the news, in a match against Alhama CF. She entered the game in the 74th minute and had scoring opportunities but couldn’t find the back of the net. On March 9, 2023, Caicedo scored her first goal with the Spanish team in the victory against Villarreal.

Women’s National Team career

Linda Caicedo made her debut with the national team in November 2019. In the 2022 Copa América Femenina, she scored three goals and was named the tournament’s best player. She also stood out in the U-20 and U-17 FIFA World Cups, leading Colombia to the final and receiving awards for her outstanding performances. Her talent has made a lasting impact on Colombian football. In the latter, Linda was awarded the Silver Ball and the Bronze Boot in that tournament.

In 2023, Linda received a call-up to participate in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. At just 18 years old, this talented footballer from Valle del Cauca achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Colombian, including male players, to score in all categories of the World Cups.

Her first World Cup was the U-20 in 2022, where she scored a brace against New Zealand on August 16th. Later, she participated in the U-17 World Cup, scoring another brace against China on October 15th, 2022, one against Mexico on October 18th, and another against Tanzania on October 22nd. Her exceptional performance has turned her into a shining star of Colombian women’s football.

Personal life

Linda Caicedo’s love life has piqued the curiosity of many of her followers. As of the current date, it is known that the footballer has been in two public relationships. In early 2023, videos surfaced showing her in the company of a young woman from Cali, but weeks later, Linda was seen with another person. This woman, named Valentina Herrera, appears to be her current partner, and both reside together in Madrid.

Photo: @linda__caicedo11 (vía Instagram)

Battle Against Cancer

At the age of 15, Linda Caicedo received a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

“What I remember was that I had to undergo surgery one day, and I felt really bad (…) I thought I wouldn’t return to top-level football”.

In the year 2020, when Linda was part of Deportivo Cali’s squad, she faced a difficult situation due to her diagnosis of ovarian cancer. During that season, she couldn’t showcase her best performance due to this illness. In April of the same year, Linda began her treatment to combat cancer. As a result, she experienced hair loss, leading her to wear a wig during a match against Junior, an experience that showcased her bravery and determination to push forward amid adverse circumstances.

Linda Caicedo Biography