USA Basketball announced their four player roster on Tuesday for the 2026 FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series. The tournament begins on May 1 in Chengdu, China.
USA Basketball’s roster comprises Joyce Edwards, Mikaylah Williams, MiLaysia Fulwiley, and Sahara Williams. The college basketball stars will look to guide the basketball powerhouse to a gold medal.
According to USAB.com, more athletes might be added to the roster as the season progresses. This year’s tournament starts with the 3×3 Women’s Series Chengdu event in Chengdu, China. Team USA is in Pool D, and they’ll play against the winner of Qualifying Draw B at 2:00 a.m. ET followed by Australia at 3:40 a.m. ET.
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Team USA’s FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series roster packs NCAA experience
Team USA’s squad is made up of four players from high-level collegiate teams. Mikaylah Williams and MiLaysia Fulwiley play for the LSU Tigers, Joyce Edwards is the leading scorer for the South Carolina Gamecocks, and Sahara Williams stars for the Oklahoma Sooners.
Edwards played for the 2025 3×3 Nations League Team, which went 14-2 en route to winning the Americas Conference title. She’s won three gold medals with Team USA.
Fulwiley suited up alongside Edwards at the 2025 3×3 Nations League. The LSU Tigers guard was also part of the 2025 USA Basketball 3×3 development camp in Phoenix.
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Mikaylah Williams was a member of the 3×3 World Cup Team that finished sixth in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. She did contribute in the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup gold medal win.
Sahara Williams played with Mikaylah Williams at the 2025 3×3 World Cup. She’s also a two-time gold medalist at the 3×3 U18 World Cup Teams in 2022 and 2023.
The Team USA quartet will fancy their chances. If they win their upcoming games, they’ll be set for the quarterfinals and semifinals on May 2.
Further down their calendar is the 3×3 Women’s Series Manila, May 6-8, in Manila, Philippines. Other dates will be announced in due time.
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Dawn Staley, Geno Auriemma, or Kim Mulkey – who is NCAAW’s highest-paid coach? Find out here
Lossiemouth put the seal on another excellent season by winning the Champion Hurdle at Punchestown on Friday.
The Willie Mullins-trained mare, a 2-7 favourite, was a comfortable winner of the two-mile Grade One race, kicking clear approaching the last and ultimately having five lengths to spare over Golden Ace (11-1) at the finishing post.
Ridden by Paul Townend, Lossiemouth has now won four races from four starts at the County Kildare course and has notched up 11 Grade One victories.
The grey had secured a fourth Cheltenham Festival success in the Champion Hurdle at Prestbury Park last month.
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Townend, meanwhile, has been enjoying a purple patch, riding Gaelic Warrior to success in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March and then I Am Maximus to a Grand National triumph in April.
“A brilliant season,” reflected winning jockey Townend, speaking to RTE at the end of the race.
“I’m in the right camp to be on these very good horses – I’m very fortunate,” he added.
For Mullins it was a fourth consecutive success in the Punchestown Champion Hurdle, coming on the back of a hat-trick for State Man.
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Wilful (16/1) finished third.
Earlier, the Mullins-Townend trainer-jockey combination had yielded dividends again as 8-13 favourite King Rasko Grey won the Champion Novice Hurdle by a head from Lord Byren (7-1).
The winning horse held off a late challenge from the second-place finisher, with Kiely’s Place (10-1) third.
NEW DELHI: A marquee battle is set to headline Friday’s IPL 2026 clash as Mitchell Starc makes his season debut for the Delhi Capitals, setting up a mouth-watering contest against teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi when they face the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur.
RR skipper Riyan Parag won the toss and opted to bat first at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, pointing to surface conditions as a key factor.
“We’re going to bat first. I think it’s not the usual Jaipur wicket. It’s a bit dry; we noticed that yesterday and the pitch played a little faster the other day. So hopefully it gets a little slow in the back end, so that’s why we’re batting first. (On the win against Punjab Kings) I think the middle order and lower order finished it like the way they did and the openers as usual started really brilliantly. But as a collective team effort, chasing down 220 always helps. Everyone’s stepping up. That has been the motto, like, as I was saying, we haven’t been playing proper and complete cricket for 40 overs. Hopefully we can narrow it down as the tournament reaches the business end. Another show today and we can rest for a few days. Bishnoi comes back in and Shubham is into the main team,” Parag said.
Starc returns as DC ring changes
The bigger headline, however, came from the DC camp, with Starc finally featuring this season, adding firepower to their pace attack. His duel with Sooryavanshi at the top is expected to set the tone early.
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DC captain Axar Patel confirmed three changes in the XI as the side looks for a turnaround in a tightening playoff race.
“Starc is playing, Chameera isn’t playing. Pathum is playing, which means David Miller sits out. Ashok Sharma is there, so there are three changes. We have three changes, the wicket looks good and we’re happy to chase. It’s important to return to basics. You need to stay in the present to turn things around, focus on the positives. Attitude and body language are very important,” Axar said.
With both teams making tweaks and chasing consistency, the encounter carries added significance. But the early exchanges promise the biggest thrill — Starc steaming in with pace and precision, and Sooryavanshi ready to counterattack in what could define the contest.
Dec 7, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs punter Brett Thorson (92) punts the ball to the Texas Longhorns during the first half in the 2024 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
When free agency opened, the most notable name the Minnesota Vikings lost was wide receiver Jalen Nailor.
They never intended to keep him at an inflated contract to be their third wide receiver, but he did well in his deal from Las Vegas.
Brett Thorson Brings Legitimate Competition to Vikings Punter Room
Potentially getting lost in the shuffle from Nailor moving teams was punter Ryan Wright flying the coop as well. He left Minnesota for greener pastures with the New Orleans Saints. While his career traditionally bounced between good and bad years, he was coming off a season in which the Vikings would have liked to keep him.
They pivoted and landed on veteran punter Johnny Hekker. However, Hekker has been trending down for some time now, and he is very clearly at the end of the line.
It would have been a shock to see the Vikings use a draft pick on a punter. Despite grabbing Will Reichard with a late-round pick, he has the utility of being a kicker. However, Brett Thorson came into The Draft as the nation’s best punter, and Minnesota was clearly enamored.
They didn’t need to use a draft pick on him, and wound up getting him anyway. Signed as an undrafted free agent, the Georgia Bulldog racked up accolades in the SEC. He now comes to what will be a punting competition in Minnesota, but even with Hekker’s presence, it’s one he could very well win.
Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Brett Thorson of Georgia punts the ball during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Thorson can boom the football, but he’s also more than capable of using finesse. Pinning punts inside the 20-yard line, or offering up enough hang time for the coverage unit to get down the field, are both in his toolbox as well.
More often than not, NFL teams cycle through kickers and punters. Veterans stick around forever and rarely find tenure with teams. Reichard looks the part of a kicker like that for the Vikings, and Thorson replicating it as a punter would be a lot of fun.
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Ted Schwerzler is a Minneapolis based blogger that covers the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. Sharing thoughts constantly on Twitter, … More about Ted Schwerzler
Marcus Rashford’s future has yet to be decided as Paul Scholes informed the Manchester United loanee of what his future could look like
Marcus Rashford has been warned against a return to Manchester United after Paul Scholes delivered a harsh assessment of the winger’s potential prospects.
It has been a genuine return to form for the England forward in Spain, having contributed 13 goals and 13 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. Rashford has made no secret of his wish to remain at Barcelona, but negotiations between the Spanish giants and United have hit a wall.
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His future has been a persistent talking point throughout the year and was raised on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast featuring United legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.
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When quizzed by host Paddy McGuinness on whether they’d like to see Rashford pull on the red shirt once more, both answered with a firm no. Scholes went on to suggest the United loanee will only ever fill a squad role at Barcelona.
Having managed just 15 league starts this season, including a mere two in their last nine matches, Rashford has struggled to cement himself as an indispensable figure under Barca manager Hansi Flick.
Scholes said: “At Barcelona, he only ever will be back-up to Raphinha and Yamal. It’s down to the lad, does he want to go to maybe a Villa or that type of club where he’ll probably play every week.”
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Butt conceded that Rashford’s recent lack of starts would push him towards joining another club this summer. He added: “I think Marcus has made that break now and that’s probably the toughest thing he’s had to do because I’ve done it, to leave the club that you’ve been brought up with and been there that long.
“That’s the hardest part, is that initial break and he went to Villa and had a great little start. I think it’s started off well at Barcelona and for some reason he’s not getting games now and I think he will go somewhere else.
“It’s just where and who can afford the money.” Butt argued that the United academy product must secure a move to a club where regular football is guaranteed to get the very best from him. The former England midfielder explained: “Marcus needs to play every single week.
“We’ve known him from a young age, he needs confidence, an arm around him and then you’ll have an unbelievable talent. When he’s a bit-part player and not playing every week and he’s not feeling loved, that’s when he loses the love of football.”
Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package
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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Caleb Downs is selected by the Dallas Cowboys as the number eleven pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Dallas Cowboys signed six of their seven picks from the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday, including first-round selection Caleb Downs to his four-year rookie deal.
Downs, the 11th overall pick of the draft, will receive $28.95 million in fully guaranteed money that includes a $17.5 million signing bonus. The deal also includes a fifth-year team option.
The Cowboys traded up one spot with the Miami Dolphins to acquire Downs, a safety. Dallas has yet to sign its other first-round pick, edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, who was selected with the 23rd overall pick.
Downs, a two-time consensus All-American, was named the 2025 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year at Ohio State and took home the Jim Thorpe Award and Lott Trophy.
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His career totals include 164 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six interceptions and three forced fumbles in 44 games for Alabama (2023) and Ohio State (2024-25).
In addition to Downs, the Cowboys signed third-round linebacker Jaishawn Barham, fourth-round tackle Drew Shelton, fourth-round cornerback Devin Moore, fourth-round edge rusher LT Overton and seventh-round wide receiver Anthony Smith.
Renegade is the 4-1 favorite in the 2026 Kentucky Derby odds ahead of the 152nd Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Saturday, May 2. The 20-horse field will depart from the gates at 6:57 p.m. ET and the winner will try to go on to become the first Triple Crown winner in the sport since 2018. Bet the Kentucky Derby with the exclusive TwinSpires offer code CBSSPORTS to receive up to $400 in bonus bets here, double what’s available to the general public:
Hochman has shown a profit in 22 of the past 39 Triple Crown races. One example of his best picks was Big Brown in the 2008 Kentucky Derby at odds of 2-1. More recently, he swept the 2022 Triple Crown, capped off by Mo Donegal’s easy win in the Belmont Stakes. In 2023, he cashed the Preakness with National Treasure. In 2024, he successfully tabbed Straight No Chaser to win, place and show in the Grade 2 Santa Anita Sprint Championship at odds of 3-2.
Hochman delivered exceptional handicapping results during the summer 2025 racing season at two of the country’s premier tracks, Saratoga and Del Mar. His combined 65.7% win rate across the two tracks represents elite-level performance that significantly exceeds industry benchmarks for professional handicappers.
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Now, Hochman has handicapped the 2026 Kentucky Derby field and revealed his picks. Go here to see them.
Top 2026 Kentucky Derby predictions
One of Hochman’s surprising 2026 Kentucky Derby picks: One issue with Commandment is his slowdowns at the end of the course, which is a problem given the Kentucky Derby is longer than the Florida Derby. There’s also the issue of jockey of Luis Saez lacking Derby success. Saez has 12 starts in the Kentucky Derby and not only has he never won, but he’s never finished in the top two.
“Despite winning the Florida Derby, Commandment’s 1:49.99 race time is slow compared to recent winners. His peak came in the Fountain of Youth, posting a 99 Equibase Speed Figure, but he dropped to 96 in the Florida Derby. Both finishes were razor-thin-a nose and a neck-revealing his difficulty in separating from rivals when it counts,” Hochman told SportsLine. “Additionally, Commandment’s jockey situation adds uncertainty.” See who to back at SportsLine.
Another stunner: Hochman is high on The Puma, who is 10-1 and comes into the 2026 Kentucky Derby off a close loss in the Florida Derby. The Puma has strong connections with jockey Javier Castellano and trainer Gustavo Delgado, who are re-united after winning the 2023 Kentucky Derby with Mage. Castellano went on to also win the 2023 Belmont Stakes atop a different horse, showing his versatility as a jockey and his ability to get the best out of whatever horse he’s steering.
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“The Puma has shown grit in every race and should be a key factor in exotic wagers with improving speed figures in every start and is a dangerous contender at a square price,” Hochman says. “He finished a close second in the Florida Derby but earned a significantly faster Thoro-graph number (2½) than the winner, Commandment, thanks to his wide trip. Running the final three-eights of a mile in 36.89 seconds and the final eighth in 12.68 seconds should serve him well.” See which other horses to back at SportsLine, and you can sign up for FanDuel Racing here to get $25 in bonuses with a $5 wager:
Heading into Kentucky Derby Weekend, William and Dorothy Kania made the trip to Louisville from Northern Indiana with a plan.
They made the nearly five-hour trip from around Gary to the Wyndham East in Jeffersontown on April 30 and had burgers at Brass Social — “it was fantastic,” William Kania said in a May 1 interview at Churchill Downs. After that, it was time to rest up and get ready for a weekend at the races.
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“Don’t be afraid to bet horses that ran good in their last race,” he advised first-timers. “The true handicappers will say, ‘Oh, that’s too easy.’ The horses that run good, they keep running good.”
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The couple had their eye on Percy’s Bar in the Kentucky Oaks, the annual showcase for fillies run the day before the Kentucky Derby that was set to take place later that evening. A full card of 13 races was scheduled throughout the day, with the Oaks set to cap off the night at 8:40 p.m.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Whitney Ensor kisses her husband Howard Ensor while attending the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Ensor’s got engaged at the Kentucky Derby.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Whitney Ensor kisses her husband Howard Ensor while attending the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Ensor’s got engaged at the Kentucky Derby.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Carson Grisham of Dallas, Texas wearing a large fascinator for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Karen Boler wears a handmade fascinator at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Rhonda Stover of Delray Beach, Florida was wearing her mother-in-law’s hat for the 25th time while she attends the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Brent Taylor, from Oregon, bought a Racing Form from Annie Napier while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Joe Kolok sr and jr, from New York and New Jersey, attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Shazia Manus, right, of Denver puts an arm around Kentuckuian Rhonda Hauser as the two walked around the grandstand area for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
People arrive at the gate while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Kristen Hansen took a selfie while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
The Meyers and Warner family’s get their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Ozzie bought a Racing Form while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Dan and Karen Skeels got their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Gilberto Arpero, from Texas, stopped to take a picture while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday,
May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Carla Dickenson, left, scrubs stains out of Stephanie Dickenson’s jacket on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. The sisters-in-law had accidentally spilled a starbucks drink before arriving at Churchill Downs.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Fans walk through Churchill Downs before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Lines grow as fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Ellen Lance speaks to her husband before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Jeff Ketterman returns to his wife’s side after handing his phone to a bystander for a picture on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Ketterman usually wears a distinct vintage style, even outside of derby week.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Carrie Cooke Ketterman sports a large hat on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Stephanie Connelly pulls down her heart-shaped sunglasses as she poses for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Stephanie’s glasses are from Krewe.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Dave Quiring sports a horse-themed jacket while holding a drink for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
A Kentucky State Police officer talks to other members of the force in the Paddock before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Tellers Desaray Johnson, left, and Tori Johnson prepare for the wagers that will be placed on horses on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
A fan carries an Oaks Lily cocktail through Churchill Downs on Thurby during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week in Louisville, Ky., on Thursday, April 30, 2026. An Oaks Lily cocktail is a signature cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice blend, triple sec, and lime juice.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Shayla Hunter walks at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Julie Thrasher carries a chocolate coverd strawberry at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Jake Elwood wears designer shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Olivia Wu wears shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026. Wu says her outfit was inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Oaks Day, which takes steps to recognize breast and ovarian cancer survivors, always brings a pink-filled crowd to Churchill Downs. There were 100,910 attendees in 2025 and 107,236 in attendance the year before.
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The 2026 forecast was cooler than usual, with temperatures not expected to rise past the low 60s, but rain was not expected. The forecast for the May 2 Kentucky Derby is similar, with temperatures not likely to rise past the upper 50s.
It’s a little chillier than the weather in Central Florida, where Johnna and Payne Luce live. The couple took photos outside Churchill Downs around noon on May 1 as they worked through the crowd to enter the racetrack.
They’re here for the weekend, shelling out for all-inclusive tickets in the Ford First Turn reserved section. Johnna said it’ll probably be the only time they make the trip, so they wanted the full experience. She didn’t grow up around horses but would watch the Kentucky Derby every year with her grandma — “I’ve watched it ever since I was little and I love it.”
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Zoe Gwozdz and Steve Miller during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Katrina and Adolph Thompkins during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Maria, Dan, and Nora Nedvidek during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Javier and Leslie Rodriguez during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Jason Engleman, Jimmy Lewis, Windy Engleman, and Denise Lewis during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Melanie And John Jones, Joyce And Rodney Wood, and Kathy Dutton during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Heidi Wilson, Lissa Capuson, April, Bliz, Nanci Hoolihan, and Diane Thomas during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Steve and Nancy Bailey during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Cheryl and Jay Dortch during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Judge Shannon Meyer and Amy Clay during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Cliff Hartman, Mike Hooligan, Marcus West, and Dana Wilson during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Katherine Metcalf and Autumn Enzweiler during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Michele and Steve Kelien during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Kathy Brohm, Maxann Newby, Teresa Goodin, and Margy Stivers during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Von Purdy, Rick Purdy, and Seema Sheth during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Rob King and Megan King during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
“This has always been her dream,” Payne Luce said. “She and her grandmother have shared a special bond over the Kentucky Derby.”
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Deb Woodcock also grew up watching the race. When she was young, she said, she wanted to be a Derby jockey when she was older.
“I had the height thing going,” she said with a laugh. “I love horses. I just love them.”
That particular dream may not have come to fruition, but Woodcook finally made it to the Derby this year in celebration of her 70th birthday. Her son, Eric Vavasek, surprised her with the trip from New York to Louisville for Woodcook’s milestone birthday.
“She doesn’t really watch a lot of live sporting events, but she never misses the Derby,” Vavasek told The Courier Journal. “To be able to do something for her that I know she’s really wanted to do just makes it extra special.”
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When Woodcook found out about the gift, she started crying.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “ I still can’t believe it.”
Sipping on an Oaks Lily and snacking on mac-and-cheese bites, Woodcook wore a long pink dress peppered with black flowers and a matching floppy hat, decorated with a lily.
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“Being here, it’s amazing,” she said of the “pinch me” day. “I don’t even have the words and I haven’t even seen the horses yet.”
Dressed in a long light pink cape, Linda Bonilla from West Palm Beach, Florida, said her look was inspired by “ballerina vibes” and staying warm. And Carrie Sweet, from Northern California, was dressed in pink polka dots with a scene from “Pretty Woman,” featuring superstar Julia Roberts, in mind.
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Sweet, who chose to celebrate her upcoming 60th birthday with a trip to the Kentucky Oaks, said her dress “just spoke to me.”
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“It’s just the best sporting event,” Sweet said. “The people watching, the drinks, the whole vibe is so much fun.”
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Amber Kuntz poses for a photo on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Always scheduled for the first Saturday in May, this year’s Kentucky Derby is set for May 2 at Churchill Downs. Gates at the famed Louisville racetrack open at 8 a.m. while the first race’s post time is set for 11 a.m. The Derby, which will air on NBC, should start at 6:57 p.m.
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Reach Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com. Reach Lucas Aulbach at laulbach@courier-journal.com.
The 2026 cars were always going to be strange. New rules, active aero, a power unit split nearly 50/50 between combustion and electric, and a grid full of engineers handed a clean sheet for the first time in years. What nobody quite predicted was that the most talked-about device of the season would be a rear wing that flips itself upside down on the straights and earned its nickname from a 1990s line dance.
Ferrari rolled into the Miami International Autodrome this weekend with a revised version of that wing. Red Bull, after a quiet test session at Silverstone during the five-week gap caused by the cancelled Bahrain and Saudi Arabian rounds, has shown up with one of its own.
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The technical FIA document for Miami reveals that 10 of the 11 Formula 1 teams have brought new parts to Florida, but the only updates anyone in the paddock is genuinely talking about are the two on the back of the SF-26 and the RB22.
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How the Macarena Wing Actually Works
The 2026 regulations replaced traditional DRS with a broader active-aero concept that lets teams design rear wings capable of changing shape between cornering and straight-line modes. Most of the grid interpreted that as a hinged flap that opens like a slightly fancier version of what we had before. Ferrari did not.
Ferrari dominated headlines during pre-season testing in Bahrain when it first revealed its unique rear wing design, which rotates at the end of straights to help reduce drag. The upside-down rear wing made its first race weekend appearance at the Chinese Grand Prix, but Ferrari reverted to its more traditional rear wing design after debuting it in first practice.
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The wing earned the Macarena tag because, in motion, the upper element swings through such an extreme arc it looks like the car is doing a dance move on the back straight.
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The Ferrari version can rotate up to 270 degrees. Red Bull’s interpretation, debuted in FP1 on Friday, is substantially different.
The Red Bull version seemingly rotates 160 degrees in the opposite direction compared to the Ferrari concept. The aim in terms of lift and further reducing drag is, logically, the same.
Red Bull, when asked, has insisted the design isn’t a copy. The submission to the FIA describes it in deliberately bland terms – language about revised attachments and a tweaked third profile near the centerline – but Laurent Mekies’ team explained that it simply could not bring its own version to the track in time for the first three race weekends, which is why it is being used for the first time in Miami following a successful test at Silverstone.
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The reaction in the paddock has been telling. “That rear wing is opening much more than the Ferrari, and even the Alpine,” one observer said of the Red Bull design, and 2009 world champion Jenson Button added: “It seems a lot faster than Ferrari’s.”
Whether it’s actually quicker or just more visually dramatic is a question for qualifying. Ferrari, meanwhile, hasn’t been still during the five-week break.
Ferrari was testing an updated version of its own Macarena rear wing during a filming day run at Monza last month. The Scuderia appears to have brought an all-new version to Miami.
The team’s own filing describes the focus as maximising drag shedding in straight mode while keeping cornering load. There are also reworked endplates with upwashing volumes to clean up flow around the new wing geometry.
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Everyone Else Brought Something, Except Aston Martin
The rest of the grid filed updates that range from comprehensive overhauls to just a single bracket.
Ferrari has made the most changes of any team with 11 upgrades to the car , covering the front wing endplate, front corner, suspension, floor, diffuser, beam wing, rear suspension and the rear wing assembly. McLaren brought seven updates centered on a completely new floor and a new rear wing of its own, with revised front and rear corner furniture, modified bodywork and a sidepod louvre option to handle Miami’s notorious cooling demands.
Red Bull’s package goes well beyond the Macarena. The submission lists revised front wing elements including the now-permitted diveplane, new front wheel bodywork ducts, a reshaped sidepod inlet, a new engine cover, revised floor bib geometry and updated rear corner work.
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The RB22 is still overweight but, according to insiders, significantly less so than during the first three race weekends of 2026. At the start of this season, the new car from technical director Pierre Wache was around 12kg overweight, after which this upgrade should roughly halve that excess fat.
Mercedes, the team everyone is chasing, brought almost nothing. Just a repositioned exhaust with a new slotted bracket and a slight increase in front drum lip chord. When you’re already winning, you don’t reinvent the car at race four. Williams filed seven items including a new floor, sidepod, and a profiled tailpipe bracket that copies Ferrari’s earlier exhaust-blowing concept. Racing Bulls brought a new rear wing with revised mainplane and flap profiles, plus an optional shorter-chord front flap to widen the balance window for Miami specifically.
Alpine has a complete new rear wing assembly with a reprofiled endplate. Audi grouped its work into two front and rear submissions covering brake ducts, suspension covers, floor edge and diffuser. Haas filed exactly one update: a device on the floor winglet. Cadillac, the newest team on the grid, used Miami to debut its first proper upgrade package: nine items covering front wing endplate, flap profiles, mirror stay, floorboard, floor body, diffuser, rear suspension, rear corner and tailpipe bracket.
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Surprisingly for a team in need of a change of fortunes, Aston has not made a single performance update, with the outfit instead focussing on reliability improvements.
Whether any of this closes the gap to Mercedes is the question of the weekend. Mekies has already warned that fans should “not expect miracles” after the very difficult start to the season.
Caleb Banks (88) addresses reporters following his on-field workout, discussing performance and draft outlook during Florida’s Pro Day session, March 26, 2026, at Sanders Practice Fields in Gainesville. The defensive lineman showcased his size and movement skills in front of NFL scouts while taking questions about his development and readiness for the next level. Mandatory Credit: Alan Youngblood-Gainesville Sun.
The Minnesota Vikings shocked the masses one week ago, selecting Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks in Round 1. Most draft pundits had labeled Banks as a 2nd-Round pick. This week, Bleacher Report wasn’t shy about the selection, naming it one of the draft’s worst selections and criticizing Banks’s injury history.
Minnesota bet big on upside, and national skepticism arrived almost immediately.
Banks will now have to prove them wrong. He’s already a lightning rod from the 2026 NFL draft, and only stellar performance will change that.
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Vikings DT Enters the NFL with Boom-or-Bust Attention
The Banks pick wasn’t universally praised.
Caleb Banks hears his name called as Minnesota makes its selection, stepping into the spotlight after being chosen in the first round, Apr. 23, 2026, at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. The Florida defensive lineman joined the Vikings as a highly regarded interior presence, expected to bolster the defensive front with size and disruptive ability. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
BR on Banks
BR’s Brent Sobleski delivered his takes on the NFL’s “worst draft picks,” and regrettably, Banks made the cut.
Sobleski opined, “The Issue: Caleb Banks is a massive and mega-talented defensive tackle, who barely played during his final season on campus and has significant concerns over previous foot injuries. How to Make it Work: A healthy career and continued progression from Banks is the only way to validate this selection.”
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“Once again, Banks broke a bone in his foot at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine. The Vikings still pulled the trigger, because Minnesota’s decision-makers felt they had a good grasp on Banks’ health and his talent was well-worth the first-round investment.”
Before Thursday night, Minnesota hadn’t drafted a defensive tackle in Round 1, 2, or 3 since 2013.
Sobleski added, “First-round picks tend to be a 50-50 proposal even in optimal situations. Banks has an added strike against him before walking into Minnesota’s building. The Vikings must now cross their fingers and hope the defensive lineman can stay on the field.”
“The pick was the type of high-risk, high-reward opportunity multiple other franchises wouldn’t have considered, particularly among the top-20 selections.”
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It Really Is Boom or Bust
Large humans with foot injuries always raise concerns. They just don’t heal ideally, or at least such injuries make big headlines when they occur to such people.
Prior to the Combine, when Banks broke a bone in his foot, the mock draft community projected him as a sure-fire Round 1 selection. The injury truly changed that. What does this mean? Well, Banks undoubtedly has the size and talent for a 1st-Round commodity. It’s all about the injury.
If Banks hits, no one will care that the Vikings “reached” for him. If the foot injury lingers or leads to others, it will be easy to say, “I told you so.” Plain and simple.
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SB Nation‘s Scotty Payne noted on Banks a week before the draft, “Banks is very boom/bust. You love the traits, and he has the potential to be a Chris Jones-like player in the middle of your defense. However, the inconsistent play, lack of production, and injuries could give you a dud.”
A Summer of Watchful Eyes
With the draft in the rearview and the NFL schedule release around the bend, the Vikings and all 31 teams will turn to organized team activities (OTAs), minicamp, and later, training camp. You better believe all eyes will be on Banks, with fans waiting to see if the early gamble pays off.
Caleb Banks (88) secures a loose ball during second-half action, reacting quickly after a turnover opportunity, Nov. 16, 2024, at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville. The Florida defensive lineman capitalized on the play as the Gators controlled momentum in a home win over Missouri in Southeastern Conference competition. Mandatory Credit: Doug Engle-USA TODAY Network.
For example, if Banks is off and running by early August, that will provide a positive signal about his Week 1 readiness. On the contrary, if Banks simply doesn’t do much this summer, many will roll their eyes and think or say, “See, this is a guy you could’ve got in Round 2 or 3 if you knew he wouldn’t be ready for 2026.”
The easiest path for all parties is for the Vikings’ diligence on Banks’s medicals to pan out in the next few months, enabling him to be an active participant this summer.
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Joining an Already Good Defense
From the moment defensive boss Brian Flores arrived in the Twin Cities in 2023, Minnesota’s defense has ranked second in the NFL per EPA/Play and DVOA and placed No. 3 last year behind the Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks. Banks is joining a sweet system; Flores and the rest of the gang don’t need him to kickstart a unit from the bottom rung of the ladder.
Think of it this way: in 2025, Flores’s defense produced the NFL’s third-best efficiency rankings while employing Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, two expensive free agents from the 2025 class who did not play up to their contractual value. A third-ranked defense with two middling iDL performers suggests the group can become even more dominant if Banks is worth his salt early on.
Caleb Banks speaks with reporters during a media session, answering questions about his progress and outlook for the season, July 16, 2025, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. The Florida defensive lineman drew attention from media members while discussing development, preparation, and expectations entering the upcoming campaign. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images.
Flores and the Vikings also drafted Iowa State nose tackle Domonique Orange one night after Banks. The interior defensive line may cook in 2026.
It’s just that Sobleski isn’t a fan of Banks’s lower-than-50-50 odds to succeed. It’s now on Banks and the Vikings, as an organziation, to prove everyone wrong.
KL Rahul etched his name in the record books with another dominant outing against Rajasthan Royals, becoming the Indian with the most 50-plus scores against the franchise in IPL history. With this effort, Rahul moved to eight 50+ scores against RR, going past Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan, who both had seven. He now sits level with AB de Villiers at the top of the list.Most 50+ scores vs RR in IPL8 – AB de Villiers (20 inngs)8 – KL Rahul (18 inngs)*7 – Shikhar Dhawan (24 inngs)7 – Virat Kohli (33 inngs)Chasing a stiff target, Rahul led from the front and found strong support in Pathum Nissanka, who scored a fluent 62 and registered his maiden IPL fifty. The pair stitched together a century opening stand, laying a solid platform for Delhi Capitals in the pursuit.Earlier, Rajasthan Royals were powered by a captain’s knock from Riyan Parag, who smashed 90 off 50 balls to take his side to 225 for 6. Coming in at 12 for 2 after early setbacks, Parag absorbed pressure before turning the tide with an aggressive counterattack, including a decisive over against Kyle Jamieson.He brought up his first fifty of the season in 32 balls and shared a crucial 102-run stand with Dhruv Jurel. Contributions from Ravindra Jadeja and a late blitz from Donovan Ferreira ensured RR posted a formidable total.However, Rahul’s consistency against RR once again stood out, as he added another milestone to his impressive IPL journey.
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