UK DRINKS FIRM IN FORCE INDIA BID

A UK energy drinks firm are in talks to buy Formula One team Force India.

Sportsmail understands Rich Energy are leading a consortium over a deal worth around £200million. Silverstone-based Force India finished fourth in last year’s Constructors’ Championship but the team is expected to be sold with owner Vijay Mallya fighting extradition back to India amid money-laundering allegations. Rich Energy’s shareholders include former Newcastle player Rob Lee, who is also a company ambassador. CRAIG HOPE

DEFINITLY RED looks unlikely to run in the Grand National because of his top weight of 11st 10lb. Trainer Brian Ellison, who had indicated a decision on the gelding would be made after the Cheltenham Gold Cup, said yesterday: ‘If he comes out of the Gold Cup he is more likely to go for the Betway Bowl Chase at Aintree.’ MARCUS TOWNEND

CALLUM SMITH finds himself confronted by a new opponent in Saturday’s World Boxing Super Series semi-final. German veteran Jurgen Brahmer pulled out sick yesterday just as Smith was heading to Nuremberg. Brahmer, a southpaw, has been replaced by unbeaten Dutch super-middleweight Nieky Holzken. Smith said: ‘I’m ready to face anybody.’ JEFF POWELL

TIGER WOODS and Steve Stricker have been confirmed as Ryder Cup vice-captains by US skipper Jim Furyk for the match on September 28-30 in Paris. Woods, who is playing again after a long absence with back trouble, also hopes to qualify as a player and fulfil a dual role.