Episode 11: The 24 Hours of Le Mans - Triomphe et Désastre

The history of Le Mans is the history of motor racing. From hosting the first Grand Prix in 1906 to creating the world’s greatest endurance race in 1923, the 24 Hours of Le Mans has been run 92 times over 102 years - and in that time, it has showcased the cutting edge of automotive technology, the sport’s most iconic drivers, and seen some of the greatest races ever.

But it has also borne witness to tragedy.

In this episode, Jack and Ben delve into the unique and dramatic history of this legendary event - highlighting not only its triumphs, but also the oversights, complacency, and closed-mindedness that led to the 1955 Le Mans disaster, when a horrific accident claimed the lives of at least 84 people. It remains the deadliest incident in the history of motorsport - and it was entirely avoidable.

Along the way, they explore the legends of Jacky Ickx, Jaguar, Mercedes, Ferrari, Ford, and a proud tradition of female participation. Because to win at Le Mans, a driver must be fit, focused, fearless - and ready to take on a circuit that has given so much to the sport, but taken just as much in return.

Episode 10: The NBA Finals - Dynasty and Legacy

"I used to joke that if you could bottle all the emotion in a basketball game, you'd have enough hate to fight a war, and enough joy to prevent one."

Bill Russell

Jack and Ben crossover the Atlantic once more to talk about some people even taller than they are. Ahead of next week's NBA Finals, they dive into the stories of legendary ballers, iconic matchups, and how the NBA grew into the global, star-studded behemoth it is today.

We talk heroes of the past including the legendary Bill Russell and his battles with long term adversary (but never rival) Wilt Chamberlain, the changes David Stern made to the game and his impact on it, Michael Jordan (of course) as well as coaches Phil Jackson and Steve Kerr getting a mention too, the latter in particular not just for his rings but also due to his politics and pro-gun control views.

We discuss why basketball, more than perhaps any other sport, lionises the individual over the team. What other sport can players be identified so readily by their mononymous titles: Shaq, Kobe, Michael, Steph, Lebron, Magic, Kareem, Giannis and their like?

So whether basketball sparks joy, hate or simply curiosity within you, this episode will help you learn how and why it is what it is today.

Episode 9: The UEFA Champions League Final - Football’s Night of Nights

Jack and Ben are back in their wheelhouse this week as they dive into the biggest night in European club football - the UEFA Champions League Final.

From contentious calls to unforgettable comebacks, tactical brilliance to glorious chaos - this is the night where legends rise, dreams shatter, and history unfolds in 90 minutes (or more). Expect goals, drama, and miracle moments: Zidane’s majesty, United’s last-gasp heroics, Bale defying gravity, and of course, Istanbul.

There are dark days to discuss too - disasters at Heysel and Munich, as well as frank discussions on the history of British Exceptionalism and how it held back the English game - and how it influenced other nations to prove them wrong. And on whether the competition - for all its undoubted merits - holds the same romance of the FA Cup, or even its predecessor, the European Cup.

So lace up your boots, cue the anthem, and get ready for the drama that only the Champions League can provide. Football, bloody hell.