Shane van Gisbergen “over the moon” after milestone finish at Kansas

Shane van Gisbergen bagged a P10 this past weekend at Kansas Speedway, marking his maiden top-10 finish at a NASCAR oval. The Cup Series rookie won multiple races throughout the regular season, but notably, none of them were on ovals.

Van Gisbergen had to battle several issues during the 301-lap event, including a stop-and-go penalty and his crew chief, Stephen Dorian, getting ejected due to unapproved adjustments on his No. 88 Camaro. Despite these setbacks, the Trackhouse Racing driver managed to secure a career-best run and felt stoked about the achievement.

During a post-race interview with NBC Sports, van Gisbergen—most commonly known as SVG—said:
“It was really cool to get a top-10 finish at Kansas Speedway. I feel like we’re getting better and better at these tracks. It was difficult starting a lap down and having that penalty, but (interim crew chief) Chais Eliason did a great job. We had really good speed at points of the race, so I’m stoked to get a top-10. I’m over the moon with that.”

Previously, Shane van Gisbergen had earned a personal-best finish of 12th at Martinsville Fall 2024 on an oval and 14th at Charlotte Spring 2025 on an intermediate track. He made the playoffs through his regular-season triumphs but failed to advance beyond the Round of 16.

Currently sitting 14th in points with four top-five finishes and six top-10s, the former Supercars champion can still contend for his fifth NASCAR win of the season.

Next up for the Auckland native is the Bank of ROVAL 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway road course. Scheduled for Sunday, October 5, the 109-lap event will stream live on USA Network, with exclusive radio coverage on PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Channel 90.

### Following a Rookie Season Playoff Appearance, Shane van Gisbergen Bags Multi-Year Contract Extension with Trackhouse Racing

Shane van Gisbergen was ushered into NASCAR’s premier series with a victory at Chicago back in 2023. After a stellar season in the Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing, van Gisbergen made the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025, quickly establishing himself as one of the strongest road racers on the grid.

After making the playoffs in his maiden Cup season, van Gisbergen landed a multi-year contract extension with Trackhouse Racing, a three-car team with whom he made his Cup debut.

“We are getting to watch one of the superstars of racing,” Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks said of Shane van Gisbergen. “What we are asking him to do carries a high degree of difficulty. He’s moved to the other side of the world, learned a new form of racing, and at times dominated the competition. He’s one of the greatest.”

Before joining NASCAR, Shane van Gisbergen drove full-time in the Supercars Championship for Triple Eight Race Engineering. He won the drivers’ championship three times—in 2016, 2021, and 2022. Van Gisbergen also triumphed at the prestigious Bathurst 1000 three times, in 2020, 2022, and 2023.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nascar/news-shane-van-gisbergen-over-moon-milestone-finish-kansas

Dolphins beat sloppy Jets but Tyreek Hill sustains feared season-ending injury

Sohail Khan recently shared heartfelt family moments with his fans, posting pictures featuring his sisters and a unique photo of his parents alongside his stepmother, Helen. Through these posts, he highlighted the crucial role of family support, emphasizing that family members should be treated as an “army” and valued highly, especially in professional collaborations. This reflects the strong bonds within the Khan household.

### A Sweet Moment with His Sisters

Sohail Khan treated his fans to a touching picture with his sisters, Alvira Agnihotri and Arpita Khan. Capturing his love and admiration, Sohail captioned the photo, “My pillars of strength.” The post elicited a warm response from Arpita, who commented, “We love you.” This rare family moment beautifully showcased the close-knit relationship between the siblings.

### A Fun Family Picture with Parents and Stepmother

In another special post, Sohail shared a candid family picture featuring his parents, Salim Khan and Salma Khan, along with his stepmother, Helen. Adding his trademark cheeky humor to the caption, he wrote, “The best triangular series ever played.” The photo offered fans a glimpse into the Khan household, showing the trio seated together in a warm, relaxed setting, seemingly engrossed in an engaging conversation.

### The Importance of Family Support

During a recent interaction with the media, Sohail spoke about the significance of family support in today’s world. He said,

> “In today’s time, your family has to be an army. The more family members you have in your army, it makes you stronger. You have to join your strengths, and there is nothing thicker than blood.”

He further emphasized the importance of valuing family members, especially in professional settings.

> “Our parents taught us to never take any of our siblings or family members for granted. If you feel that Salman’s market price is 1 crore, and if he is working in your home production, pay him one and a half crores. Pay him more. Don’t take anybody for granted and respect your family members.”

### On the Bond with Their Father, Salim Khan

Speaking about how the Khan brothers interact with their father, Salim Khan, Sohail shared a sweet insight:

> “We are very physical with him, but we will not disrespect him.”

### Sohail Khan’s Work Front

On the professional front, Sohail Khan has produced several notable projects under his banner. Some of his productions include *Main Aurr Mrs Khanna*, *Kisaan*, *Ready*, *Jai Ho*, *Freaky Ali*, *Radhe*, and many others.

**Follow Us On Social Media for more updates and exclusive content.**
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/sep/29/nfl-monday-night-football-jets-dolphins-bengals-broncos

Teemo joins the 2XKO roster

Riot Games has announced that Teemo, the Marksman/Mage from League of Legends, is the latest character to join the roster for *2XKO*, an upcoming fighting game. Fans will be able to play as Teemo starting on day one when *2XKO* launches in early access next month.

Teemo’s arrival was revealed through a brand-new trailer that showcases his unique moveset in *2XKO*. The tricky Yordle wields a slingshot, dart gun, and his signature mushrooms, using these tools to keep enemies off balance in battle.

One of Teemo’s standout abilities is his ultimate, where he tosses a barrage of explosive mushrooms. These not only deal heavy damage to opponents but also knock them into the air, creating openings for follow-up attacks.

The announcement trailer is loaded with clever nods to popular memes, other Riot Games titles, and memorable moments from fighting game community (FGC) history — including the legendary Daigo Parry. This attention to detail has quickly captured the attention of fans both old and new.

With Teemo joining the *2XKO* roster, players can look forward to bringing a mix of mischievous tactics and explosive gameplay to the fast-paced fighting action. Stay tuned for the early access launch next month to try him out for yourself!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146154/teemo-2xko-roster-announcement

Valorant Champions bracket – Paris 2025

The 2025 VCT season is culminating with **Champions**, a global tournament featuring the best players that Valorant has to offer. As the competition heats up in Paris, you can stay updated with the Valorant Champions Bracket to keep track of the standings and scores in Valorant’s biggest tournament.

### Valorant Champions Paris Bracket

Below is the current bracket for VCT Champions Paris. We will continue to update it as more games are played and teams advance through the stages. The bracket is maintained and regularly updated by Riot Games on the official Valorant esports website.

The upper bracket features Valorant heavyweights such as **NRG** and **FNATIC**, who are set to face off on Friday, October 3.

### How to Watch

Matches can be watched live on the official Valorant Twitch channel. If you miss any of the live action, replays are available after the day’s competition concludes, allowing you to catch up at your convenience.

Stay tuned for more updates and follow all the exciting moments as the battle for the VCT Champions title unfolds in Paris!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146149/valorant-champions-bracket-2025-vct

Hollywood star Bill Murray golfs through Ireland in new series

Hollywood star Bill Murray is set to play golf across the island of Ireland in a new six-part BBC series titled *Off Course*. The show will follow the 75-year-old comedian as he embarks on a road trip around Ireland to take on some of its most breathtaking golf courses.

Inspired by Tom Coyne’s New York Times bestseller, *A Course Called Ireland*, the series will feature Murray—who has Irish roots—joined by celebrity friends and his long-time golfing companion Coyne as they tee off around the Emerald Isle.

Reflecting on his love for golf, Murray said, “I started out caddying, and golf was the best education I ever received. Ireland feels like the right place to put all that to work. They’ve got this wonderful word there, craic, which means fun, but it means a lot of other things. A lot of good things. And this show will be about us finding it.”

*Off Course* consists of six 30-minute episodes and has been described as more than just an ordinary golf show. Instead, it focuses on life, chance encounters, and the joy of going off course.

Catherine Catton, Head of Factual Entertainment Commissioning and Events, commented: “This is a series full of humour, heart and adventure, set against some of the most beautiful backdrops imaginable, and we can’t wait for audiences to come along for the ride with Bill.”

Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning at BBC Northern Ireland, added, “We’re thrilled that this series promises stunning scenery and beautiful golf courses. Couple this with the wit and charm of Bill and his friends, and the series promises to be joyful viewing for audiences.”

Bill Murray is an award-winning actor best known for his roles in *Lost In Translation*, *Ghostbusters*, and *Groundhog Day*.

*Off Course* will be available to watch on BBC Two, BBC One Northern Ireland, and BBC iPlayer.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/hollywood-star-bill-murray-golfs-through-ireland-in-new-series-1812663.html

Valorant Champions bracket – Paris 2025

The 2025 VCT season is reaching its climax with Champions, a global tournament showcasing the best players that Valorant has to offer. As the competition intensifies in Paris, you can stay up to date with the standings and scores using the Valorant Champions Bracket.

**Valorant Champions Paris Bracket**

Here is the current bracket for VCT Champions Paris. We will continue to update it as more games are played and teams advance throughout the tournament. The bracket is maintained by Riot Games and is kept up to date on the official Valorant esports website.

The upper bracket features Valorant heavyweights such as NRG and FNATIC, who are set to face off on Friday, October 3. Fans can watch all matches live on the Valorant Twitch channel. Additionally, matches are rerun after the day’s competition concludes, providing multiple opportunities to catch the action.

Stay tuned and follow along as Valorant’s biggest tournament unfolds in Paris!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146149/valorant-champions-bracket-2025-vct

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

# ‘Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 PM*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, offering the world a vivid glimpse into an Afro-futuristic vision. Through its depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—boasting advanced technology and a rich cultural heritage—the film challenged long-standing stereotypes and presented a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

## Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

Wakanda’s advanced technology was a central element in redefining Afro-futurism. The film showcased the fictional metal vibranium’s extraordinary potential to power cities, heal injuries, and enhance everyday life. This portrayal challenged outdated notions by highlighting the possibility of African nations leading global technological advancements rather than being depicted as primitive or underdeveloped. By focusing on innovation rooted deeply in African culture, *Black Panther* opened new perspectives on what an African future could look like.

## Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* beautifully blended cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals were presented alongside futuristic designs and innovations. This duality demonstrated that cultural identity and progressiveness are not mutually exclusive. Embracing one’s heritage does not mean rejecting modernity; instead, integrating both can create a holistic and dynamic identity.

## Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The film’s characters played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king who balances tradition with progress resonated with audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, Shuri’s portrayal as a brilliant scientist challenged gender norms within African narratives and served as an inspiring role model. These characters defied stereotypes while promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

## Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond cinema, *Black Panther* had a profound global impact on how Africa is perceived. It sparked important conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. The film’s unprecedented success proved that stories rooted in African experiences could resonate universally when told authentically with powerful visuals and narratives. This shift has since inspired other filmmakers to explore similar themes, broadening the scope of African stories told worldwide.

*Black Panther* not only entertained millions but also transformed the narrative around Africa’s future—celebrating its heritage while imagining limitless possibilities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

**’Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 pm*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* fundamentally redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, providing the world with a vivid glimpse into an Afro-futuristic vision. Through its depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—an advanced society rich in cultural heritage—the film challenged prevailing stereotypes and showcased a unique fusion of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

### Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

At the heart of *Black Panther*’s Afro-futuristic narrative lies Wakanda’s groundbreaking technology. The film introduced vibranium, a powerful resource capable of energizing entire cities, healing injuries, and enhancing daily life. This portrayal challenged conventional depictions of Africa by positioning an African nation as a leader in technological innovation rather than as primitive or underdeveloped. By rooting its futuristic advancements deeply in African culture, *Black Panther* revolutionized perceptions of what an African future could realistically look like.

### Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* masterfully blended rich cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals featured prominently alongside futuristic designs and innovations, illustrating a dynamic interplay between the old and the new. This duality emphasized how cultural identity can coexist harmoniously with progress, underscoring the idea that honoring one’s heritage need not contradict embracing modern advancements. Instead, the film presents an integrated, holistic vision of identity.

### Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The film’s characters played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king balancing tradition with forward-thinking ideals resonated globally, while Shuri’s character—a brilliant scientist—challenged gender norms within African narratives. Together, these characters defied stereotypes and offered powerful role models, promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

### Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond its success as a cinematic achievement, *Black Panther* had a transformative impact on global perceptions of Africa. It sparked meaningful conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. The film’s authentic storytelling and compelling visuals demonstrated that narratives rooted in African experiences could engage universal audiences. This paradigm shift has inspired other filmmakers to explore similar themes, further expanding the reach of Afro-futurism in storytelling.

*Black Panther* remains a landmark film that not only entertained millions but also reimagined Africa’s place on the map of the future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

‘Black Panther’: The film that put Africa on futuristic map

**‘Black Panther’: The Film That Put Africa on the Futuristic Map**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 03:58 pm*

The 2018 blockbuster *Black Panther* redefined the portrayal of African culture and technology, giving the world a vivid glimpse of an Afro-futuristic vision. The movie’s depiction of the fictional nation of Wakanda—with its advanced technology and rich cultural heritage—challenged longstanding stereotypes by showcasing a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This article explores how *Black Panther* reshaped Afro-futurism through its visual storytelling, character development, and cultural impact.

### Wakanda’s Technological Marvels

A cornerstone of the film’s Afro-futuristic vision was Wakanda’s groundbreaking technology. The story highlighted vibranium’s immense potential to power cities, heal injuries, and enhance everyday life. Rather than depicting African nations as primitive or underdeveloped, *Black Panther* positioned them as leaders in technological advancement. By rooting innovation within African culture, the film redefined global perceptions of what an African future could look like—one filled with promise, progress, and ingenuity.

### Cultural Heritage Meets Modernity

*Black Panther* masterfully blended cultural heritage with modernity. Traditional African attire, music, and rituals featured prominently alongside futuristic designs and cutting-edge innovations. This fusion emphasized that cultural identity and progressiveness are not mutually exclusive. Instead, the film demonstrated that embracing one’s heritage can harmoniously coexist with—and even inspire—modern advancements, crafting a holistic and empowering identity.

### Empowering Narratives Through Characters

The characters of *Black Panther* played a pivotal role in redefining Afro-futurism by embodying empowerment and leadership. T’Challa’s journey as a king balancing tradition with progress struck a chord worldwide, while Shuri’s portrayal as a brilliant scientist challenged gender norms within African narratives. These characters served as inspiring role models, shattering stereotypes and promoting themes of unity, strength, and resilience.

### Global Impact on Perceptions of Africa

Beyond cinema, *Black Panther* sparked a global shift in how Africa is perceived. The film ignited important conversations about representation, identity, and cultural pride on an international scale. Its widespread success proved that stories rooted deeply in African experiences can resonate universally when told authentically and visually powerfully. This transformation in perception has since encouraged other filmmakers to explore similar themes, broadening the scope of Afro-futuristic storytelling.

*Black Panther* not only entertained millions but also opened new pathways for imagining Africa’s future—one where culture, innovation, and empowerment go hand in hand.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-black-panther-redefined-afro-futurism/story

Latin superstar Bad Bunny will headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Bad Bunny will bring his Latin trap and reggaeton swagger to the NFL’s biggest stage next year. The Grammy winner has been announced as the headliner for the Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show in Northern California.

The NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation revealed on Sunday that Bad Bunny will lead the halftime festivities at Levi’s Stadium on February 8 in Santa Clara, California. The Puerto Rican superstar’s selection comes amid another career-defining run. He is fresh off a historic Puerto Rico residency this month that drew more than half a million fans and is currently the leading nominee at the Latin Grammys this November.

Bad Bunny has become one of the world’s most streamed artists, thanks in part to albums such as Un Verano Sin Ti, an all-Spanish-language LP that has received widespread acclaim. In addition to his musical achievements, Bad Bunny will host Saturday Night Live on October 4.

“What I’m feeling goes beyond myself,” Bad Bunny said in a statement. “It’s for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown. This is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”

Roc Nation founder Jay-Z praised the artist, saying, “What Bad Bunny has done and continues to do for Puerto Rico is truly inspiring. We are honored to have him on the world’s biggest stage.”

The 31-year-old artist, born Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, has won three Grammys and 12 Latin Grammys. He has become a global ambassador for Latin music, starred in films such as Bullet Train, Caught Stealing, and Happy Gilmore 2, and collaborated with top fashion houses.

Bad Bunny will enter the Latin Grammys as the leading nominee with 12 nods, dethroning producer and songwriter Edgar Barrera.

Roc Nation and Emmy-winning producer Jesse Collins will serve as co-executive producers of the halftime show, with Hamish Hamilton directing. Jon Barker, Senior Vice President of Global Event Production for the NFL, said: “We know his dynamic performances, creative vision, and deep connection with fans will deliver the kind of unforgettable experience we’ve come to expect from this iconic cultural moment.”

Last year, Kendrick Lamar shined with guest SZA in New Orleans, setting the record for the most-watched Super Bowl halftime show with 133.5 million viewers. His performance surpassed the audience for Michael Jackson’s 1993 show.

Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Apple Music and Beats, commented, “His music has not only broken records but has elevated Latin music to the center of pop culture, and we are thrilled to once again partner with the NFL and Roc Nation to deliver this historic performance to millions of fans worldwide. We know this show will be unforgettable.”

https://www.mymotherlode.com/sports/nfl-general-news/10005081/latin-superstar-bad-bunny-will-headline-the-2026-super-bowl-halftime-show.html

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