Sports Biographies

'A joy to read' Daily TelegraphAlexandra Heminsley thought she could swim. Believing that a life lived fully isn't one with the most money earned, the most stuff bought or the most races won, but one with the most experiences, experienced the most fully, she decided to conquer her fear of the water.

The eagerly anticipated new autobiography from Arsenal and England legend Tony Adams.

Earmarked as an England captain in the making, Paul became a target for top clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Spurs and Liverpool, but he always stayed loyal to his beloved club, deeming Maine Road the spiritual home at which his destiny lay. But then, in September 1990, disaster struck.

Packing his collection of football programmes (1,134 of them - football fans are sticklers for statistics), Dave is aghast to be informed that the programmes do not fall into that category.

**WINNER British Sports Book Awards SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR****Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award**Gareth Thomas had it all. He was a national hero, a sporting icon. He was a leader of men, captain of Wales and the British Lions. To him, rugby was an expression of cultural identity, a sacred code. It was no mere ball game. It gave him everything, except the freedom to be himself.This is the story of a man with a secret that was slowly killing him. Something that might devastate not only his own life but the lives of his wife, family, friends and teammates. The only place where he could find any refuge from the pain and guilt of the lie he was living was on the pitch, playing the sport he loved. But all his success didn t make the strain of hiding who he really was go away. His fear that telling the truth about his sexuality would lose him everything he loved almost sent him over the edge.The deceit ended when Gareth became the world s most prominent athlete to come out as a gay man. His gesture has strengthened strangers, and given him a fresh perspective. Gareth s inspiring and moving story transcends the world of sport to tell a universal truth about feeling like an outsider, and facing up to who you really are.

'A history of modern Spain told through one of world football's most intense rivalries' Independent'Sports Book of the Year' Sunday TimesIt's Messi vs Ronaldo, it's Catalonia vs Castilla.

An original biography of Senna, based on new research and interviews, examining his status as a legend.

As the great rivals raced to victory, their relationship deteriorated badly, beginning with the breaking of a gentleman's agreement, and public spats followed, culminating in Prost accusing Senna of deliberately trying to ride him off the circuit, and fearful that the Brazilian would get someone killed with his daring overtaking feats.

Acclaimed analysis of the life and career of Formula 1's most successful driver - Michael Schumacher

The world-champion freestyle skateboarder and the man who brought the ollie - the trick that revolutionised the sport by taking it from the ground to the air - to street skating shares the history of skateboarding, as he tells the dramatic story of his life.

Ferrari, the name itself evokes the world of speed, a world of fast cars, heroic deeds and glamour. This is the story of the man behind the name. This biography goes back to Enzo Ferrari's origins and traces his remarkable rise to prominence.

Just One More Goal is the acutely observed story of the development of modern football, as seen through the eyes of one man, David Pleat.

Forty Years Fixing the Mags recounts the adventures of Newcastle head physio, Derek Wright, over nearly 40 years at the club. Behind-the-scenes experiences with players and managers are interwoven with the historical events of the Magpies, set against the backdrop of a city and Geordie region that is fiercely proud of its heritage.

Discover the incredible story of Andreas Brehme, the footballing hero with nerves of steel. Follow his journey from humble beginnings in Hamburg to World Cup glory and learn the valuable lessons he learned along the way.Benefits of reading this book: - Gain insight into the life and career of a football legend- Learn valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and hard workBullet point list: - Discover the defining moments of Brehme's career- Experience the highs and lows of his journey to World Cup glory- Learn about Brehme's versatility, tactical acumen, and exceptional skill- Explore his impact on and off the pitch at various clubs- Understand the legacy he left on the game through his leadership and sportsmanshipWhat's included in the book: - In-depth look at Brehme's rise to prominence in football- Detailed analysis of his career at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan- Insider insights into his performances at the 1990 FIFA World Cup- Exclusive interviews with Brehme's teammates, coaches, and opponents- Rare photos and anecdotes that bring Brehme's story to lifeDon't miss out on the opportunity to learn from one of football's greatest players. Buy "Andreas Brehme: Nerves of Steel" now before the price changes.

This is the story of how Manchester City was saved from oblivion - told by the man who oversaw the rescue operation. Without David Bernstein's work in five critical years as chairman, it is impossible to see how the 2008 takeover, which paved the way for the Guardiola era and unprecedented success, would have been possible.

A deep and powerful meditation on the nature of boxing that asks why people do it, what it does for them - and ultimately to them. This may be the most important book on the sport for decades.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is living the dream as the local lad proudly playing for his boyhood club. As he begins his first season as Reds vice-captain, this official souvenir special - the second in the club's new Icons series - tells his sensational story so far. No2 in Liverpool Football Club's official Icons series

"Pele: The Life and Legacy of a Football Icon" is a comprehensive biography that delves into the incredible life and lasting impact of the legendary Brazilian soccer player, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, commonly known as Pele. Written by an esteemed sports writer or historian (author's name not specified), the book captures the essence of Pele's journey from his humble beginnings in the impoverished region of Brazil to becoming one of the greatest football players of all time. The biography provides a vivid account of Pele's early life, showcasing his passion for the game and the struggles he faced in pursuing his dreams. It explores his upbringing in a football-obsessed family, his rise through the ranks of Brazilian football, and his breakthrough onto the international stage at the tender age of 17 during the 1958 FIFA World Cup. As the narrative unfolds, the book offers a detailed exploration of Pele's playing career, highlighting his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring prowess. It delves into his mesmerizing performances in various competitions, including his World Cup triumphs in 1958, 1962, and 1970, where he showcased his unparalleled talent and ability to inspire teammates. Beyond his on-field exploits, the biography delves into the personal life of Pele, exploring the challenges and triumphs he faced both within and outside of football. It delves into his relationships, the impact of his celebrity status, and the social and political context of Brazil during his era. The book also delves into Pele's off-field endeavors, including his philanthropic work and his role as a global ambassador for the sport. "Pele: The Life and Legacy of a Football Icon" not only celebrates Pele's remarkable achievements but also examines his lasting legacy in the world of football and his influence on subsequent generations of players. It offers insightful anecdotes, interviews, and perspectives from those who witnessed his career, adding depth to the narrative and providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the man behind the myth. Overall, this biography serves as a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Pele's life, offering readers a captivating journey through the triumphs, challenges, and enduring legacy of one of football's true icons.

Shankly, My Dad and Me is the fascinating story of Gordon Milne, one of Bill Shankly's first and most important Anfield signings, who played a key part in transforming Liverpool into a footballing dynasty. This candid account spans six decades of an incredible journey through the game and Gordon's encounters along the way.

32 profiles of Formula One's legendary drivers from the 1950s to the present day. As well as examining the racers of the past, such as Jackie Stewart, Alain Prost and Aryton Senna, the text will profile living legends such as Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton and legend-in-the-making Max Verstappen. Uniquely, this book will also feature stars of the sport who tragically died or were injured before they could realise their true potential, but left a lasting legacy in Formula One.

Across the UK, into Europe and further afield, these are the training rides, races and journeys closest to his heart. From one-day classics in the Peak District and Snowdonia to the rolling roads of Tuscany and the wide-open vistas of New Zealand's South Island, these are the routes you'll want to ride alongside Britain's favourite cycling superstar.We ride out with him from his winter home in the south of France, and around his old Tuscan training base as a GB Olympic hopeful at the very start of his career. We take in the valley roads of the Tour de Suisse (overall winner, 2022), and the sinuous coastal roads of Milan - San Remo.We go long in Mallorca and bounce along the short cobbled secteurs of Belgium; we take in the vineyards around Adelaide and the bright blue skies of southern California.And we have guest rides too: from world champion Remco Evenepoel and his favourite winter training ride in Calpe, Spain; around Yorkshire, with Olympic mountain bike champion, world cyclo-cross champion and newly crowned winner of Strade Bianche, Tom Pidcock; in the wilds of western Ireland from champion sprinter Sam Bennett.Twenty rides, twenty adventures you'll never forget. All of this in a small-size hardback that can slide just as easily into your hand luggage as the back pocket of your jersey.

Follow Sam Kerr’s incredible journey from playing Aussie rules football as a kid to becoming one of the world’s greatest athletes as she prepares to captain the Matildas in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.