Jessamy Calkin

Ferrari is preparing to launch the Luce, its first all-electric model: a four-door saloon with four motors, a 122kWh battery, around 1,000 horsepower and an estimated 330-mile range. The car’s tactile LoveFrom-designed interior and modular battery are intended to preserve Ferrari’s distinctive appeal, but its likely 2,300kg weight, high price and lack of a traditional engine soundtrack raise questions about whether it can satisfy collectors and enthusiasts. Dealers, collectors and investors are divided, though Ferrari’s strong exclusivity, heritage and financial position give it room to take the risk. The successful Purosangue is cited as evidence that the brand can overcome resistance to unconventional models, while Lamborghini’s retreat from an electric supercar highlights the danger. The Luce’s success will depend on whether Ferrari can make electric performance feel emotionally and authentically like a Ferrari.

Professor Dame Pamela Shaw’s research suggests that strenuous, sustained physical activity may increase the risk or accelerate the onset of motor neurone disease in people with a C9orf72 genetic mutation. Evidence comes from patient studies, identical twins, elite Swedish skiers, US military personnel and experiments involving genetically modified fruit flies. Shaw emphasizes that ordinary, moderate exercise remains beneficial and should not be avoided. Her team at Sheffield’s SITraN is investigating how genetic and environmental factors damage motor neurons, with the aim of improving treatments and finding a cure.

Lara Feigel describes how an English family-court ruling separated her children between her and her former husband after she moved from London to Oxfordshire. She criticizes the winner-loser structure of custody litigation, gendered judgments of mothers, lengthy delays, and the use of parental-alienation claims in cases involving alleged domestic abuse. Her book, Custody: The Secret History of Mothers, connects her experience with historical cases involving women including Caroline Norton, Alice Walker and Britney Spears. Feigel supports Pathfinder courts, greater courtroom transparency and a more collaborative focus on children’s welfare, while acknowledging that backlogs may hinder reform. Despite the original trauma, her children now maintain a close relationship and both parents have managed to prioritize them.

Jo Hill was permanently disabled after being crushed between two cars at her children’s school in 2006, an accident witnessed by her four young children. After years of dependence and severe pain, she gained greater independence through Canine Partners, first with her assistance dog Derby and later with Barry, who helps with household tasks, mobility, emergencies and pain management. Hill now lives an active life, supports Canine Partners as an ambassador and trustee, and is preparing for Barry’s retirement while anticipating the arrival of a successor dog. Canine Partners is one of four charities supported by The Telegraph’s 2025 Christmas Charity Appeal.

Toto Wolff discusses Mercedes’ strong record, its second-place position in the 2025 constructors’ standings and the challenges posed by major Formula One regulation changes. He reflects on Lewis Hamilton’s departure for Ferrari, the development of rookie Kimi Antonelli, his own difficult childhood and experiences with depression, and the demanding culture of elite motorsport. Wolff says he and Hamilton still think daily about losing the 2021 world championship to Max Verstappen after Michael Masi’s controversial safety-car decisions, while criticizing Christian Horner’s lack of introspection. Despite the sport’s pressures, Wolff expects to remain involved in Mercedes long-term and views family karting as an important source of shared time.

Rob Burrow’s father, Geoff, recalls how the former Leeds Rhinos and England rugby league player remained cheerful after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019, adopting a “no crying policy” despite his rapid deterioration and death in June 2024. Geoff describes the family’s efforts to secure experimental treatment, while researchers explain advances in understanding MND, including genetic factors, environmental influences and possible links with strenuous exercise. The article highlights the need for earlier diagnosis and improved access to therapies such as Tofersen. Burrow’s family, former teammate Kevin Sinfield and supporters raised more than £10 million for MND research and care, including the new £6.8 million Rob Burrow Centre for MND in Leeds, creating a lasting legacy for patients, families and healthcare staff.