Why is North Korea blowing up roads, railways to the South?

Lando Norris topped final practice at the Japanese Grand Prix, edging out his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri. George Russell from Mercedes showed potential to challenge for pole position, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton trailing behind. Grass fires caused interruptions, leading to concerns for qualifying and the upcoming race. Full Article

Marc Raimondi joined ESPN in 2019 and covered combat sports before transitioning to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. He also wrote a book on pro wrestling and previously worked for the New York Post and Newsday. Former Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones announced his retirement after a successful 13-year career, highlighted by seven Pro Bowl selections and leading the team in receptions and receiving yards. Jones had historic achievements, including two seasons leading the NFL...

Your support helps The Independent cover stories on reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, providing unbiased reporting and investigations. Donations enable journalists to report from the ground, ensuring both sides of the story are heard. With a commitment to accessible journalism for all, The Independent values your support in keeping quality reporting free and available to everyone. Full Article

ESPN staff provides updates on the NHL playoff race with less than two weeks left in the regular season, highlighting the top-performing teams, their projected points, and upcoming games. The rankings include the Winnipeg Jets, Washington Capitals, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, Tampa Bay Lightning, Los Angeles Kings, and Florida Panthers, with insights on their season performance and playoff potential. The staff also analyzes key players and trends...

Hallie Grossman, a staff writer for ESPN.com and ESPN The Magazine, covers college football and basketball. She recently highlighted Dawn Staley's journey from North Philadelphia to becoming a legendary basketball figure, vying for her fourth national championship as head coach of the South Carolina women's basketball team. Staley's enduring impact and resilience, rooted in her Philly upbringing, have elevated her to near-mythical heights in the basketball world. Full Article

Elena Delle Donne, a seven-time all-star and MVP, announced her retirement from the WNBA after a successful career marred by injuries, including back surgeries that kept her out of the 2024 season. Delle Donne led the Washington Mystics to their first championship in 2019 and was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, coming out in 2016 and marrying wife Amanda Clifton in 2017. Despite offers to continue playing, Delle Donne decided to close this chapter...