Today’s update introduces new fixes and experience improvements to Forza Motorsport, including tweaks to how Safety Ratings are calculated in Featured Multiplayer, a gloss-matte slider in the Livery Editor, a new Tire Wear scale option for Free Play and Private Multiplayer, and changes to Drivatar AI braking behavior.
Update 8 is headlined by the Track Toys Tour alongside its Spotlight cars – three of which are either new or returning to Motorsport – that you can race in weekly events across Career, Multiplayer and Rivals. We’ve also added Mobil 1 track signage at Maple Valley, placed a barrier along the pit exit at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, and reset leaderboards for Le Mans layouts following changes made to the track in the previous update.
In addition, starting with Update 8, players with VIP Membership can look forward to an exclusive 15% discount on a car every week in the Showroom, which will now be available alongside the Spotlight cars and the month-long VIP discount car.
Below is a summary of new content and features, as well as items fixed or improved in Update 8:

Game Content, Features and Events [All Platforms]

Career Events

• Featured Tour: Track Toys Tour (Available from May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – June 26 5pm PT June 27 12am UTC)
  • Ginetta Juniors (Starts May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC)
  • Weekend Warriors (Starts May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
  • Kit Caterhams (Starts May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
  • Track Toys (Starts June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC)
• Open Class Tour – 1960s Celebration (Available from May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)
  • D Class Series
  • C Class Series
  • B Class Series
  • A Class Series

Reward Cars

• Track Toys Tour: 2019 Porsche #70 Porsche Motorsport 935
• Open Class Tour: 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupé

Spotlight Cars

• 2019 Ginetta G40 Junior (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• 2015 Porsche Cayman GTS (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• 2013 Caterham Superlight R500 (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• 2019 Elemental RP1 (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

VIP Discount Cars

• 2014 BAC Mono (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)
• 2016 Lotus 3 Eleven (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• 1996 Porsche 996 GT1 (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• 1994 Mazda Miata (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• 2016 Brabham BT62 (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

Multiplayer Events

Spec Series

• Lotus 3-Eleven Spec Series (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• Early Factory Racecar Series (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• Mazda Miata Spec Series (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• Modern Factory Racecar Series (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

Open Series

• R Class Series and P Class Series (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• B Class Series and D Class Series (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• A Class Series and X Class Series (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• S Class Series and C Class Series (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

Spotlight Series

• 2019 Ginetta G40 Junior (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• 2015 Porsche Cayman GTS (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• 2013 Caterham Superlight R500 (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• 2019 Elemental RP1 (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

Rivals Events

• Spec Division: Forza Touring Cars – Virginia International Raceway Full Circuit (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)
• VIP: Mono a Mono – 2014 BAC Mono – Yas Marina South Circuit (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)
• Celebrate Senna’s Legacy with McLaren – 2018 McLaren Senna – Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 26 5pm PT June 27 12am UTC)
• Spotlight – 2019 Ginetta G40 Junior – Brands Hatch Indy Circuit (May 15 5pm PT May 16 12am UTC – May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC)
• Spotlight – 2015 Porsche Cayman GTS – Mugello Club Circuit (May 22 5pm PT May 23 12am UTC – May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC)
• Spotlight – 2013 Caterham Superlight R500 – Grand Oak Club Circuit (May 29 5pm PT May 30 12am UTC – June 5 5pm PT June 12 12am UTC)
• Spotlight – 2019 Elemental RP1 – Lime Rock Full Circuit (June 5 5pm PT June 6 12am UTC – June 12 5pm PT June 13 12am UTC)

Bug Fixes and Improvements

Stability [All Platforms]

• Fixed a game crash caused by quickly and repeatedly changing the number of Drivatar AI opponents in Free Play event setup. [1717959]
• Fixed an issue that occurred when exiting out of pre-race in Free Play quickly after switching cars or modifying the event setup would cause a soft lock in the loading screen. [1732080]
• Fixed a stability issue when the player would exit to Event Menu while on track in during a Test Drive. [1751335]
• Fixed an issue in which disconnecting and reconnecting a controller would prevent the player from progressing to the game menu. [1734977]

PC

• Improvements have been made to video memory usage on PC.
• Addressed an issue where the screen would flash white when players entered the My Cars menu. [1749202]
• Fixed an issue on Steam where you would repeatedly be shown the Self-Improvement achievement, even when you haven't unlocked it. [1738129]
• Fixed an issue on Steam where the Safety Star and Safety Superstar achievements would accumulate incorrect progress after a multiplayer race. [1738130]
• Fixed an issue where the player could not exit out of Career when hovering over event posters and pressing the right mouse button. [1717135]
• Fixed an issue where Exit Event messages could not be closed out using a Cancel Button (B Button/ESC Key/Right Mouse Click). [1717315]
• Selecting replays using the mouse no longer requires a double click. [1580893]
• We’ve made changes to how PC graphics settings are applied to ensure you are only prompted to restart the game when it is necessary. [1568770]
• Fixed an issue where the player is prompted to restart the game when only the ‘Show Framerate’ toggle has been modified. [1755225]
• Fixed a PC-specific issue where the game would crash when disconnecting a wheel and reconnecting with a controller in Featured Multiplayer. [1728706]

Gameplay [All Platforms]

• Introduced a Tire Wear Scale option to Free Play and Private Multiplayer, allowing adjustments to the rate at which tires are worn. 1x is the default value. At 2x, tire wear will occur twice as fast. Values range from .5x to 10x. This setting is found in the Event Setup Rules tab and in the Fuel & Tire menu when on track.
• Migrated the Open Class Tour in Career from the Builders Cup tab to the Featured tab. The Open Class Tour will be found in the Featured tab going forward.
• Fixed an issue where lap times faster than 18 seconds on Eaglerock Oval in Rivals X Class Time Attack leaderboards were not being posted.
• Fixed the achievement “Leisure Cruise” so that it now correctly unlocks when the specified criteria to complete a single lap at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps during sunset has been met. [1681510]
• Adjusted the rolling start in the Builders Cup Power Tour: Iconic Muscle event so that cars no longer collide before the 3-2-1. [1717346]
• Fixed an issue where players not using steering assists were given control of their car at the wrong time when exiting the pit. [1717893]
• Fixed a bug in Private Multiplayer lobbies where player cars would appear on the track instead of in the pits when the host changes the selected track and while one or more players are in the Post Race screen. [1729190]
• Fixed an issue in Private Multiplayer where timed races didn’t mark laps as dirty when driving off track. [1757780]
• In Featured Multiplayer, Telemetry now states the correct number of Qualifying Laps before Featured Race. [1733624]
• Fixed an issue where every Featured Multiplayer post-race transition would only ever show Laguna Seca art as the next track. Now, the player will see the correct track loading screens when continuing from one completed Featured Multiplayer race to the next event. [1653249]
• Fixed an issue where the "Not Connected" UI popup would repeatedly show during sign-in even after a connection was regained. [1746586]
• Fixed an issue in the Settings menu where resetting all options to default values did not apply to Audio Performance. [1731587]

Multiplayer – Matchmaking and Events [All Platforms]

• We’ve updated Safety Ratings in Featured Multiplayer by increasing the number of previous races the Safety Rating uses to determine your rating from 10 to 20, and by making on-track collisions more impactful to Safety Rating. Changes will take effect after your first race in Update 8.
• In addition, we’ve improved the matchmaking algorithm to search for a narrower range of Safety Ratings compared to your own. For example, players with an 'S' Safety Rating should no longer be matched with players who have 'E' and 'D' Safety Ratings. Groups will be connected to matches based on the player with the lowest Safety Rating.
• We’ve updated Featured Multiplayer events to use consistent weather conditions and avoid unpredictable weather transitions mid-race. [1750733]
• Removed the 2020 KTM X-Bow GT2 and the 2020 Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 from the Forza GT Series and added them to the Modern Factory Racecar Series in Featured Multiplayer. [1753741]
• Added the 2019 Porsche #70 Porsche Motorsport 935 to the Forza GT Series in Featured Multiplayer.
  • Developer’s Note: We’re currently working on recategorizing Forza GT racecars into separate spec divisions and expect to push these changes into the game this summer.
• Corrected an issue where the 1969 Lola #6 Sunoco T70 MkIIIB was eligible for the Vintage Le Mans Prototypes Series rather than the Prototype Group Racing Series. [1731588]

Car Balancing [All Platforms]

• The following cars have been rebalanced in Featured Multiplayer Spec Series:

Featured Multiplayer Spec SeriesCar NameChange Summary Forza GT Series2019 Ginetta G55 GT4Engine torque: +25% Car Mass: +13.4% Front Downforce: -45% Rear Downforce: -45% Early Factory Racecar Series1997 McLaren F1 GTIncreased Power 10% Early Factory Racecar Series1997 Porsche 911 GT1 StrassenversionIncreased Power 13% Lowered weight/ballast 3% Early Factory Racecar Series1989 Ferrari F40 CompetizioneIncreased power 10% Weight decreased 2%

Drivatar AI [All Platforms]

• Reduced unnecessary braking scenarios for Drivatar AI opponents. Examples of this include braking while attempting to pass, two cars wide in corners, at the apex of corners, and on straights.

Tracks [All Platforms]

• Increased the track material luminance to be more physically correct, improving the overall contrast and color saturation of the track. This affects newly released tracks as well as future track updates.
• Maple Valley has been refreshed with “Mobil 1 Presents Maple Valley” race day branding, which includes new track signage featuring Mobil 1.
• Fixed multiple pop-in zones across the entire Maple Valley track.
• Fixed multiple pop-in zones across the entire Mid-Ohio track.
• Fixed numerous areas across Mid-Ohio where textures were displayed at low resolution or stretched.
• Placed a barrier along the pit exit at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. To accommodate this change, leaderboards for this track have been reset.
• Fixed a couple zones at Brands Hatch that were missing or displaying broken skids.
• We’ve reset leaderboards for Le Mans track layouts following the changes made to this track in Update 7.

Cars [All Platforms]

• 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R: Fixed an issue where suspension couldn’t be tuned without the Drift Suspension upgrade. [1648500]
• 2013 McLaren P1: Fixed an issue where the aero wing wasn’t displaying its deployment animation when accelerating after braking for a turn. [1592856]
• 1992 Volkswagen Golf Gti 16v Mk2: Fixed an issue where the Analog speedometer did not match the telemetry. [1652263]
• Fixed an issue on select cars where the fog lights or reflectors would instead act as brake lights. This fix applies to the 1998 Toyota Supra RZ, 2003 Ford Focus RS and 1997 McLaren F1 GT. [1730279] [1731165]

Livery Editor [All Platforms]

• Introduced a Vinyl Material tool to the Livery Editor which can be used to uniformly adjust all vinyl materials on a car from matte (non-reflective) to glossy (reflective). This includes a reset option to revert all vinyls to match car paint glossiness. Imported designs from Forza Horizon 5 using its similar feature will automatically inherit these values.
• When removing a livery from a vehicle, the color will now be reset to the default manufacturer color instead of the color when the player purchases it. [1731939]
• Adjusted the arrangement of hint buttons in Livery Editor at the bottom of the screen. [1741965]
• Fixed an issue in the Livery Editor where the save popup would not be shown when exiting after flipping a decal or creating a mask from a layer. [1739245]
• The 'Find Designs' menu is now accessible for rental cars when players try to open it from 'Design & Paint Menu' and 'Livery Mode Select' scenes. [1643182]
• Fixed an issue where the game was creating empty base model liveries. Forza base liveries will no longer be created and stored unless it's the current livery in use. [1551365]
• Added iconography to layers in the Livery Editor. The player can now see icons to indicate if it's a mask layer or a locked layer. [1370431]
• The background values (position, scale, color, etc.) will not change when the player is navigating through the lighting options panel. [1734187]
• Fixed issues when flipping the rotation of vinyls in the Livery Editor. [1728080]
• Fixed an issue to prevent zooming of camera if the mouse is over Livery Color Selector in all color modes (Normal, Manufacturer, Special) for consistency. [1721951]
• Addressed an issue where player brake calipers were displaying the wrong color instead of the expected special colors. [1712512]
• Fixed an issue in the Design & Paint menu where non-block color vinyl shapes ignored mask effects. [1630741]

Accessibility [All Platforms]

• Screen Narrator now properly narrates the “Place in Car Bay” scene. [1738094]
• Screen Narrator will now read associated credit bonuses as part of the option value names on Free Play Advanced options which affect credits earned during the event. This change also fixes the display of the bonus percentages for all players. [1721875]
• Fixed intermittent failures of Screen Narrator to read the tab names in the Builders Cup Series Selection scene. [1721928]
• Screen Narrator now fully supports the “Series Standings” leaderboard scene accessed from the Builders Cup Event Setup scene. [1721944], [1657223]
• Screen Narrator now correctly reads the Driving Assists modal popup for new players during the initial races of Career mode. [1738064]
• Screen Narrator will now always correctly read the Data Out IP Address and Port settings in the Gameplay & HUD settings menu. [1667393]
• Fixed an issue with Screen Narrator reading DLC pack descriptions twice in Purchase Options menu. [1746587]
• Added descriptive text for the SoundCloud Driver Suit. [1708217]
• The Tune Setups menu is now fully narrated. [1709554]

Localization [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue where several words were not translated when using [sv-SE] (Swedish-Sweden) language. [1589182]
• Fixed an issue causing hint button text to exceed the text boundaries in several languages. [1711597]
• Fixed a typo in Screen Narrator voiceovers in [pt-BR] (Portuguese-Brazil) when viewing car info panels. [1712323]
• Fixed an issue that caused text to overlap in the Fuel & Tire setup screen when text size is set to largest, and the language is set to [fi-FI] (Finnish-Finland). [1749301]
• Fixed an issue where the word “Pause” is not translated in [ja-JP] (Japanese-Japan). [1749465]
• Fixed an issue where the word “Hardcore” is not translated in several languages. [1749471]
• Fixed an incorrect character in [zh-TW] (Taiwanese Mandarin-Taiwan) that caused Fuel & Tire menu categories to be mistranslated. [1749479]

[First] [Prev] [Next]
Fifty thousand light years from the center of the galaxy a large moon orbits a gas giant planet, and that planet orbits a medium size main sequence star in a wide spaced binary system. On that moon, Seca Prime, the Galactic Confederation established an academy to bring forward the best in the finest students the galaxy had to offer. The entire moon was dedicated to the academy, from the central complex to the globe circling particle accelerator, the students had access to instrumentality of all types.
The biology obelisk housed a large centrifuge that could generate heavy simulated gravity into the hundreds of galactic standard units. The exobiology students used it to study high gravity world life forms in a larger environment than a small, tabletop sized, gravity field enclosure. The humans found it a relaxing way to spend a few hours out of the suit. Even on the heavy floor the highest force was 3 galactic standard units, and because of this they had to wear the suit virtually all the time. Susan had discovered the centrifuge in her third week at the academy, and the humans had gradually become the primary users, much to the delight of the exobiologists.
Humans had only found the galactic confederation one and a half increments past, a little more than three of their years, and they were already becoming a key player in the galaxy. The exobiologist students at Seca Prime were fascinated by this new species and their compact, seemingly fragile but surprisingly durable form. To foster friendships the four humans had allowed the Exos, the shortened name they used to refer to the incessantly curios exobiologists, to perform all manner of tests on them.
Liara had been the first of the non-humans to try going in with her human friends and experiencing the crushing force of their home world. She had told her friends of a world the Suralial had occupied whose gravity field was just over four galactic standard units. Those Suralial that had colonized the planet had adapted to the higher gravity of that world in a surprisingly short time, and they had suffered no ill effects. Liara wanted to see if she could adapt to Earth’s gravity, she wanted to visit Earth with Jason, and she had other, more personal reasons.
Her initial attempt was a few days after the first end of term dance, and Liara had surprisingly lasted close to fifteen minutes before she asked Jason to spin down the centrifuge. After that they settled on a regime of increasing the force in one half unit steps. It had taken almost half an increment, but she had accomplished what a few of the exobiologists had thought imposable. She now was able to function well for several hours in the high gravity eight-point-two environment.
It wasn’t without cost. She was typically exhausted after a long session, and she would sleep for entire cycles sometimes, but as time had progressed the Suralial had become more and more comfortable with her human friends in the centrifuge. Jason also pointed out that his thin, svelte girlfriend was developing some serious muscles in her arms, legs, and torso. She could now pick Susan up, not as well as Susan could lift her, but Liara could do it.
The exobiologists had made a special project out of Liara’s personal experiment by tracking her health and physical development. After half increment the only ill effect they could find was that her range of motion had been decreased slightly by her expanded musculature. On the positive side she processed oxygen three times as efficiently as she had initially, her muscle fibers and bones had become much denser, and her heart had gained fifty percent in capacity. She had also doubled in mass.
One other side effect became apparent, it was harder and harder for her to manage her newfound strength outside of the centrifuge or the heavy floor. This had led her to come to Susan.
“Is it possible for this one to acquire a suit such as yours?” She asked
Susan sighed. “These are the only four in existence,” she said. “They are astonishingly expensive to make. For the cost of what I’m wearing you could buy a starship.”
“This one has access to funds,” Liara said plainly.
Susan paused, a little stunned by her friend’s unconcerned attitude toward the massive number of credits she was describing. “Um, yeah there’s more though. A lot of the designs are confidential,” she said and smirked. “But, you know, it’s not like I don’t have them. They really should have had better security. It was not that hard.” She huffed. “I was just curious about the functions of the suit and how they did it, and they were being absolute jerks. They didn’t want to turn loose of the designs.” She rolled her eyes. “’Military security,’ they said.” she smiled at Liara. “You may have noticed we four, um, aren’t exactly strict rule followers. I had my data pad with me when I had a fitting session, she left the room and her computer was open, so I just sort of wormed in and took the data for the entire project.”
Liara smiled proudly at one of her chosen sisters. “So, these could make one given the correct materials?”
She could see Susan’s mind was already working on ways to accomplish it. “Well, we’d need to get a good bit of time on the fabricator. The carbon fiber, titanium, and most of the rest of the structural materials are fairly easy to get, but some of it isn’t cheap. It’s the dark matter that’s really expensive,” she said, and she stared into the distance. “It’d almost be sim...” Susan stopped mid-word, tilted her head, and froze, barely breathing.
Liara had been told about this by Jason. Sometimes, when Susans brilliant intellect went into hyperdrive, she would just suddenly stop. Her analytical mind would take over the whole machine. After a few moments Susan came back to herself.
“Yeah, uh,” She said, “I need to talk to the high energy physics guys, they have access to the supercollider. We'll just make the dark matter we need.” She looked at Liara seriously. “It’ll still going to be very expensive.”
“This one has access to funds,” Liara said again.

“It’s time to tell them,” Jason said as Liara crawled into his bed.
She snuggled against him. “This one agrees,” she sighed.

The next morning, as the humans and their frequent overnight guest, readied themselves for another day of lectures and labs, Jason gathered them in the kitchen area of their common room. “We have something to tell you guys," he said gravely.
Liara moved to stand next to him. “You know that this one is called, Dulphan,” she said. “It is time for this one to tell you what that means.”
“I’ve known for a little while,” Jason said. “Liara asked me to keep it private until she felt she could tell you herself.”
“This one asks that you forgive Jason for keeping this one’s secret.” Liara drew a shuddering breath. “On Sural our mothers birth many at once,” she began. “It is very rare for a single Suralial to be birthed, usually it is four or more. This one was a single birth, we are called Dulos. We are thought to be gifted with health and intellect, as all our mother’s energies went solely to us. We are honored in Suralial society, and our blue scales declare us. All other Suralial are green. But if a Dulos is born to a royal den we are called Dulphan.
All Dulphan are named Liara after the first Dulphan. She was a great leader of the Suralial, she united the dens, and she gave us the law. Those born Dulphan, as this one was, are required to carry on her legacy. We are not queens, but we do wield power, and we command great wealth. A Dulphan had not been born in close to five hundred and fifty increments, but in my birth cycle there were two, this one and Liara Ah Ang.”
The three humans were hanging on her words, waiting for her to continue.
“Only one mature Dulphan is allowed to ascend to Dulphan Al and, as Suralial tradition demands, if we yet live Liara Ah Ang and this one must meet on our mutual birthday in our twelfth increment to decide. One will be Dulphan Al, one will be no more.”
Liara saw on the faces of her human friends a visage of furious anger and purpose. It was the same expression Jason had worn when she told him.
“Well, I’m going to make sure that it’s you doing the walking away,” Andre said in a low growl.
“This one had thought her whole life that it would not be so,” Liara said. “The Ah An are scholars, diplomats, and scientists. The Ah Ang are warriors. This one had hoped that, when the time came, Liara Ah Ang would be merciful and quick.” She looked at her human friends. “This one pursued knowledge, art, and history,” she smiled. “Because it pleased her. Then this one came here, and she was gifted with her closest friends. This one learned many things from her human friends, and she has become strong like them, but the greatest thing this one has learned is something this one believes is the reason humanity has achieved so much.”
She looked at them with what they knew was her fierce and determined expression. “There is no fate but what you make,” she said with venom.
“Damn right, baby,” Jason said.
Arwen looked at Liara. “You’ve got the best friends you could possibly have, Liara,” she said. “You can do this, and we’ll be right there.” Susan nodded next to her. “We’re not going to let you die in some barbaric fucking ritual.”
Liara caressed Jason’s shoulder. “This one thanks you, and this one has also found a reason to live, a reason to win,” she continued, “and more than that, with this one’s friends she has found hope.”
Andre looked at Jason. “You’re not going to be jealous at the amount of her free time she’s going to be spending training with me, are you?”
Jason snickered. “I suppose not,” he said.
“Good,” Andre said, and he turned back to Liara. “I’m happy you’re getting a suit. We're going to ease you up to the highest gravity setting you live with constantly. We want how strong you are now to be a complete surprise to this other Liara.” He sighed. “And you and I are going to train, a lot. You're not going to like some... maybe most of it, but by the time you meet again this bi... other Dulphan is going to be in for a pretty fucking rude shock.”

It took two dozen cycles, and rather a lot of credits on Liara’s part, but Susan and the physics team presented Liara her suit shortly after the first meeting of the Student Defense Association. They wanted her to have it for the upcoming end of term dance. It was nearly identical to the suits the humans wore but designed to accommodate her Suralial physique. She could easily extend her claws through the gloves and boots, she could select the amount of gravity applied to her through an application on her data tablet or with a verbal command, and for fashion's sake, Susan had chosen to make it the same iridescent blue as Liara’s scales.

“Right, left, right, right, left,” Andre said as he jabbed the training phase knife at Liara. The Suralial woman was becoming quite adept at blocking the knife, and Andre was pleased. “Alright, I’m going to stop calling them now, ready?”
He saw Liara nod. He jabbed toward her left side, and she blocked it. He spun to bring the knife around on her left, but she was already there. “Yes, excellent!” he shouted. She brought her knife back and jabbed. Left, left, right, left, she kept at Andre, not giving the advantage back. He swept his knife out at her in a wide arc. She dove under the sweep and came up with her knife under his chin.
"YES!” Jason cheered from the bench in the centrifuge. “That bitch is so screwed.”


Arwen pressed the entry pad of the centrifuge and stepped into the anteroom. Jason’s suit was hanging on the cleaning system rack in front of her, Liara’s was next to it. She smiled to herself and pressed the suit release sequence on her wrist. Her suit announced, “system removal in progress.” It separated from her neck to her abdomen, divided, and split down her legs. Two other seams opened from her neck down her arms to her wrists. She pulled her feet and hands from the gloves and boots, and she stretched her arms over her head, reveling in being out of the confinement of the suit.
Arwen hung the suit in the cleaning system, wincing at the smell. “Whew, glad no one else is in here,” she said to herself.
Usually, if she was alone, she would remove her undergarments as well, but Jason was in one of the pods, so she left them on. She chose the pod on her left and opened the hatch. Jason was Laying on his back on one of the benches and Liara was laying mostly on top of him. She opened her mouth to engage in some gentle teasing when Jason held up his hand.
“Ssshh,” Jason said in a whisper with his finger in front of his face. “She’s sleeping. Andre worked her out pretty hard.”
Arwen smiled and shook her head. “Odd place for a nap,” she whispered and sniggered quietly.
“Eh, she sleeps on me like this a lot, actually,” Jason whispered back, grinning. “I’m a big soft warm thing.”
“You guys are too cute,” Arwen whispered, shaking her head, amused. “You know that, right?” She sat on the bench across from them.
Jason shook his head slightly and whispered, “Nah, we’re not cute.” He looked at Arwen and smiled confidently. “Like Susan says, we’re adorable.”

Which song and a short explanation if you will. The main 8 units will do for this one. No wrong answers here. I'd love to know what you guys think. Since this may be a more involved post, I want to say "Thanks" in advance to anyone who cares to reply. Here's my list.
Happy Around: Make My Style
Admittedly, the anime is the main reason for me. The process of making the song is what ultimately brought the girls together. Also the lyrics are very Rinku-esque.
Peaky P-key: ABSOLUTE
Another anime related reason for me. I was blown away when I first heard/saw this in the season finale. The full version made it even better. It's a song that dominates in every aspect and I feel really pins down right then and there what they are about.
Photon Maiden: Linked Ring
This song I feel has that ethereal/otherworldly kind of sound, harkening back to when they were introduced in the anime as cool and futuristic (creating sounds no one has ever heard).
Merm4id: High Tension BPM
I feel that their catalog of original songs is pretty consistent to their theme all throughout. Therefore, my pick here is for a simple reason. I feel it falls right in the middle of everything relative to songs like "Floor Killer" and "Live Life" all the way to "NO-NO" and "MAX!!!!".
RONDO: Ultramarino Flor Seca
Personally I lean more towards their harder hitting songs like "Black Lotus" and "Traumerei". However I can't deny the sheer beauty of this song. I feel it's a great representation of "weaving stories into song", lyrics and all.
Lyrical Lily: The IF Dancer
A song that is fun, energetic, encouraging, uplifting even (is that essentially the same thing?), all while still remaining proper? Yes please.
Abyssmare: WINNER
It's a song that is Hard hitting and aggressive with a side of in your face attitude. Need I say more?
Unichord: DJ NANMO WAKARAN
I feel this song embraces the "having the most fun" motif the most by essentially diving head first into pure chaos without reserve. This song dipping into gabber territory is an excellent representation of that.

After so many suggestions, I've decided to split the American road courses into 2 tracks to avoid a 30 something turn track. This one is made with the bigger name tracks. The lap begins with the uphill esses of Watkins Glen, leading onto a straight. Then, a downhill right hand that leads into Sonoma's carousel. Coming out of the carousel, Mid Ohio's hairpin provides a key part of the lap. The longest straight of the track goes into the high speed right of Road America's Canada Corner. Soon after is Laguna Seca's corckscrew, which is quickly followed with a Cota inspired stadium section. Other layouts include a chute to the Corkscrew, a "double carousel" that removes the midohio hairpin and straight, and a simpler version through the stadium used for Skip Barber.
Main layout details: 3.2 miles, 18 turns (7 left, 11 right), 3 straights. 60 feet of elevation change.
Part 2 is yet to come! Thanks everybody for the suggestions! Also please ignore the terrible art skills.

From: https://support.forzamotorsport.net/hc/en-us/articles/26287905493139-Forza-Motorsport-Update-5-0-Release-Notes-February-14-2024
We're working to improve your Forza Motorsport experience. Below is a summary of new content and features, and items fixed or improved in Update 5.
New Content, Features and Events [All Platforms]
New Track

• Nürburgring Nordschleife: Standalone Nordschleife and Full Circuit (GP combined)

New Career Events

• Featured Tour: Ringer Tour (Available from Feb. 14 4pm PT Feb. 15 12am UTC – April 2 4pm PT April 3 12am UTC)
  • Showdown Series: BMW M (Starts Feb. 14 4pm PT Feb. 15 12am UTC)
  • Showdown Series: Audi Sport (Starts Feb. 21 4pm PT Feb. 22 12am UTC)
  • Showdown Series: Mercedes-AMG (Starts Feb. 28 4pm PT Feb. 29 12am UTC)
  • Showdown Series: Porsche 911 (Starts March 6 4pm PT March 7 12am UTC)
• Open Tour – German Automotive (Available from Feb. 14 4pm PT Feb. 15 12am UTC – April 2 4pm PT April 3 12am UTC)
  • D Class Series
  • C Class Series
  • B Class Series
  • A Class Series

Reward Cars

• Ringer Tour: 2022 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS
• Open Tour: 1974 Porsche #1 911 RSR

Spotlight Cars

• 2023 BMW M2 (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21)
• 2013 Audi RS 7 Sportback (Feb. 22 – Feb. 28)
• 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (Feb. 29 – March 6)
• 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S (March 7 – March 13)

Car Pass Cars

• 1965 Lotus Team Lotus type 35 (Feb. 15)
• 2015 Cadillac #3 Cadillac Racing ATS-V.R (Feb. 22)
• 2018 Ford #98 Breathless Pro Racing TA Mustang (Feb. 29)
• 2020 Audi TT RS Coupe (March 7)

New Multiplayer Events
Spec Series

• Grand Prix Rivals (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21)
• Mustang Shelby GT500 Spec Series (Feb. 22 – Feb. 28)
• GTX Sportscar Spec Series (Feb. 29 – March 6)
• Forza Proto-H Series (March 7 – March 13)

Open Series

• S Class & D Class (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21)
• X Class & A Class (Feb. 22 – Feb. 28)
• R Class & C Class (Feb. 29 – March 6)
• P Class & E Class (March 7 – March 13)

Spotlight Series

• 2023 BMW M2 (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21)
• 2013 Audi RS 7 Sportback (Feb. 22 – Feb. 28)
• 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (Feb. 29 – March 6)
• 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S (March 7 – March 13)

New Rivals Events

• Featured Track: Nordschleife – 1979 BMW #6 BMW Motorsport M1 Procar – Nürburgring Nordschleife (Feb. 15 – March 13)
• VIP: Body Builder – 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE Forza Edition – Mugello Club Circuit (Feb. 15 – March 13)
• Logitech McLaren G Bonus Stage – 1997 McLaren F1 GT – Hakone Club Circuit (Feb. 15 – March 13)
• Spotlight – 2023 BMW M2 – Laguna Seca - Full Circuit (Feb. 15 – Feb. 21)
• Spotlight – 2013 Audi RS 7 Sportback – VIR - North Circuit (Feb. 22 – Feb. 28)
• Spotlight – 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG – Hockenheim - National Circuit (Feb. 29 – March 6)
• Spotlight – 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S – Nürburgring - Full Circuit (March 7 – March 13)

Bug Fixes and Improvements
The team is constantly hard at work on bugs, some of which are not immediately visible to players but are critical for game stability for all players.
Stability [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue where the game enters an unresponsive state when returning to Open Practice in Featured Multiplayer from a suspended state. [1612807]
• Fixed a crash that could occur after selecting “Skip Practice,” exiting the race and re-entering the event. [1657219]
• Fixed a crash that could occur when entering Forzavista. [1671290]
• Fixed a game crash that could occur when opening a race replay. [1672588]

Builders Cup [All Platforms]

• Skipping Completed Practice: Players are now presented with the option to Skip Practice in the Career mode pre-race menu. Furthermore, if the player completes a Practice session, the game creates a save point and provides additional options when returning to a series for replaying or skipping complete practice. [1635662]
• Additional information has been added for projected finishes in the Challenge the Grid screen. [1673345]
• Fixed an issue in Builders Cup where the series standing list is missing the names of AI drivers. [1668229]
• Fixed an issue in Builders Cup where the Skip Practice option loads the incorrect time-of-day for the track intro cinematic. [1674381]

Multiplayer [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue in Private Multiplayer where someone driving the wrong way wasn’t correctly ghosted and could collide with other players. [1613125]
• Fixed an issue in Featured Multiplayer where players could encounter an infinite loading screen when attempting to change their Fuel and Tire setup at Grid Preview. [1611726]
• Fixed an issue where Featured Multiplayer events at Hockenheim had only 3 laps instead of the intended lap count. [1691754]
• Fixed issue where in some Featured Multiplayer Series (Prototype Group Series, Vintage Le Mans Sportscar Series), some cars utilized different tire compounds, resulting in uneven tire wear during a race. [1657150]
• Fixed an issue in Featured Multiplayer Forza GT Spec Series where multiple classes are displayed when filtering by class. [1607337]
• Fixed an issue in Forzavista where the car model remains “exploded” after accepting a Multiplayer invite. [1646951]

Free Play [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue in Free Play where car model names are missing from the drivers list. [1660255]
• Fixed an issue in Free Play Quick Events where the "Number of Laps" returns to the track layout default when going to Event Setup in the pre-race menu. [1629341]
• Fixed an issue where Load/Save Event Setup options appear in Free Play Advanced while offline. [1446888]
• Time of Day and Weather will no longer always be randomized for the "Next Event" after a Free Play race. Your settings will be remembered. [1598884]
• Fixed an issue in Free Play where the post-race information on the next race screen is inaccurate when weather is set to Variable. [1569880]

Gameplay [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue where the "Do You Like This Design?" and "Do You Like This Tune?" post-race prompts are not appearing. [1604582]
• In the Fuel and Tires setup menu, added descriptions for non-race tires that explain their all-weather capability. [1607316]
• Fixed an issue where audio sounds were played twice when pressing and releasing the “A” button on controller in the post-race podium finish sequence. [1555390]
• Fixed an issue where the “Seeing Stars” blue and teal Driver Suits are mixed up in the Driver Customization menu. [1603140]
• Added an explanation to the Fuel and Tires menu that clarifies why tires cannot be changed while using a rental car. [1612374]
• Adjusted the post-race rewards flow to ensure credits earned are displayed before a new Driver Suit unlock. [1651459]

Cars [All Platforms]

• Introduced a first-time pop up to the Buy Cars menu that explains the Featured Tab. [1635604]
• Fixed an issue in the Showroom where cars have a checkmark despite not being properly selected. [1602611]
• 2010 Lexus LFA: Updated inaccurate car audio. [1653741]
• 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R: Fixed an issue where the Rear Tire Width options are displayed in the wrong order after applying a widebody kit. [1664831]
• 2009 Ford Focus RS: Fixed an issue where the car’s audio sounds metallic and distorted. [1661365]

Tracks [All Platforms]

• Hockenheim: Fixed an issue where race-day objects clip into the post-race cinematic when the player does not earn a podium finish. [1663889]
• Daytona: Fixed an issue where crew members can appear floating during the walk-the-grid cinematic in Featured Multiplayer. [1671191]
• Spa-Francorchamps: Fixed the typo on the “Welcome to Circuit de Spa” track sign. [1675335]

AI [All Platforms]

• Fixed issue where “Skip Lap” forces player off-track at Suzuka Full Circuit if they have adjusted their fuel levels on certain X class cars. [1681253]
• Fixed issue where AI controller takes player car off the track at VIR North when using “Skip Lap” or the start of a Test Drive session. [1682343]

Livery Editor [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue where the game enters an indefinite loading screen after selecting any car within the All Cars sub-menu of the Design & Paint mode. [1712706]
• Players are now prompted to save their livery if they attempt to exit the Livery Editor without saving. [1437864]
• Fixed an issue when exiting a search in “Find Designs” exits the design section of the Livery Editor. [1490136]
• Fixed an issue where upgraded calipers are unable to be painted. [1555302]
• 2004 Maserati MC12: Fixed an issue where the manufacturer livery partially disappears when paint and decals are applied to the vehicle. [1557639]
• Fixed an issue where Vinyl Group sizes can become negative, leaving it difficult or even impossible to get them back to positive values. [1603790]
• Fixed an issue where shared Vinyls created and used by the same author on a Car Livery will lock sharing on the livery. [1608207]
• Added custom advanced zoom to the Livery Editor when applying decals to a car. [1621135]
• Fixed an issue where the Paint Wing option would be still accessible when the wing is removed from the car. [1556604]
• 2018 Acura #36 NSX GT3: Fixed an issue where the car’s shadow would “pop-in” at certain camera angles in the Paint Car menu. [1452096]
• Fixed an issue in Apply Decals > Vinyl Group where Curated Groups do not populate if selected too quickly. [1631003]
• Fixed an issue in Apply Decals > Vinyl Group where layer count displayed incorrectly in the UI. [1536758]
• Fixed an issue in the decal selector where letters and symbols are incorrectly rearranged in the tab Lower Letters 5. [1570323]

PC [Microsoft Store and Steam]

• Numerous under-the-hood improvements to reduce CPU spikes and better utilize the GPU, helping to improve framerate consistency while driving. [1536749, 1651623]
• Fixed numerous crash scenarios caused by multi-threaded rendering. [1624448, 1659051]
• Fixed being unable to use full screen mode when using a PC with an integrated GPU. [1603057]
• Fixed erratic framerate after reverting a video settings change. [1577163]
• Improved Mouse navigation by allowing RMB to behave like esc + B to navigate back through menus. [1486418]
  • There is a known conflict with free camera rotation using a mouse in livery editor and photo mode, and we’re looking to address in a future update. For now, players can use the top menu preset views or the right thumb stick on a controller to navigate their camera as usual with the livery editor, and can use the arrow keys or right thumb stick on a controller for photo mode.
• Fixed an issue on PC where players would see no performance boost when switching from a high-quality mode to low quality. [1629213]
• Fixed an issue where objects were missing from car reflections in Photo Mode and Forzavista [1670932]
• Added a check for GPU support of D3D12 Enhanced Barrier feature to application startup. Error code AP205 corresponds to detected lack of support. Client will attempt to find a device which has required features and will report a "failed to create graphics device" modal if none are found. [1684419]
• Fixed an issue in the Livery Editor on PC where zooming in with the mouse wheel scrolls the decal layers as well. [1612231]

Wheels [All Platforms]

• Fixed an issue causing custom wheel input layouts to reset to their default settings after relaunching the game with both a controller and steering wheel connected. [1593360]
• Fixed an issue that caused the first shift LED light on the Logitech G923 to be illuminated when the car is idling. [1653804]
• Fixed an issue where the shift lights don’t blink on Logitech steering wheels when the car exceeds redline. [1653801]
• Fixed an issue where H-pattern shifters occasionally delayed shifting gears. [1633642]
• Improved shift light LED normalized rev range for Thrustmaster and Logitech devices. [1631053] [1631050]
• Fixed an issue where the car steering animation was laggy or unresponsive when using a steering wheel to drive. [1624215]

Wheels [PC Only]

• Fixed an issue where LEDs on the Fanatec Formula wheel were blinking with the incorrect colors and rate. [1631049]
• Improved shift light LED normalized rev range for Fanatec devices. [1631052]

Photo Mode and Replays [All Platforms]

• Players can now save Short Race replays. When racing against a full grid, Short races should save most replays; Medium races will not save full replays but will save up to 11 minutes. Work to improve replay save length is ongoing. [1655835]
• Fixed an issue in Photo Mode on PC where non-16:9 resolutions include letterboxing in saved photos. [1671404]
• Fixed an issue when searching Replays or Photo Galleries by Track or Track Layout would return no results. [1604588]

Graphics [All Platforms]

• Improved screen space reflections to handle quick dynamic resolution changes. [1670567]

Accessibility [All Platforms]

• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the AI Takeover Cue pitch-volume setting is not honored during pit entry if the player enters with Pit Assist enabled. [1639525]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the Deceleration Cue Pitch preview does not function properly in the Accessibility settings menu. [1639445]
• Fixed an issue where the UI Contrast setting text does not accurately describe the setting function. [1593309]
• Fixed an issue at Laguna Seca where certain P and X Class cars do not follow the driving line with throttle assist turned on. [1662584]
• Fixed an issue at Daytona where certain P and X Class cars do not follow the driving line with throttle assist turned on. [1662599]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator reads the acceleration or braking stat changes in kilometers per hour when miles per hour is displayed. [1613130]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator reads "no results for this leaderboard are available at this time" when entering the leaderboard in Rivals. [1657145]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the Turn Navigation preview does not function properly in the Accessibility settings menu while on track. [1657217]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where audio cues are present during and after the Benchmark mode on PC where the player is unable to control the vehicle. [1607324]
• Added hyphenation for common compound word, front-wheel drive, to the subtitle when inspecting the 2018 Honda Civic Type R during the Builders Cup Intro Series. [1576107]
• Fixed an issue in the Quick Upgrade menu where the "Confirm" button on this screen always narrates the incorrect status initially. [1603873]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator does not readily read all the VIP event information in Rivals. [1625474]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator does not inform players that they are highlighting a new Series they have not viewed before in Career mode. [1581960]
• Fixed an issue in the Showroom where the "Owned" text appears much larger than its UI box while Menu Text size is set to largest. [1660344]

I present him to you: he has just been appointed by Minister Taiani as the Italian sports ambassador in the world. You are aware of the speed and effectiveness of his responses. Who among you dares to challenge him first? Here he is, Semeraro, the most important man in Italy. Open the newspapers, they all see you. My son, who is 10 years old, said, "Jannick is becoming what Messi is to Argentina." So, what kind of effect does that have on you? How do you take it, I mean, whether you like it or not?
"No, I take it quite calmly, honestly. I am happy with what we have done, happy to share so many emotions with all of you. But on the other hand, obviously, there is not just one tournament. Look, we have many tournaments throughout the year, we have many chances to do well, but there are also chances to do poorly. We have to be ready, we have to be happy to be in this situation, certainly because it is an important milestone for me personally but also for my team. And then we'll see. But certainly, you feel the warmth, the importance of the people who like me. But on the other hand, I'm like a guy, I'm like I was two weeks ago, that is, a simple, normal guy."
"Let's establish an order; we have an hour. Let's start with Sky; the microphone will come to all of you, have patience, I know there are many questions. Please, here you go. Hi, thank you for everything you represent for the tennis movement and not just for the world of sports. I ask you this: in the evolution you have had, this great growth on many fronts, technical, physical, etc., what will be your next step? Because you really live by steps, don't you? The next improvement you have in mind, also approaching your next tournaments, which I imagine will be Rotterdam, Indian Wells, and Miami.
Surely, the planning we are doing, which I think we did very well last year, we took some moments, um, where I did not touch the racket, I was a lot in the gym, the physique now is in good shape, but I also know that I have to improve that part there, um, especially the strength but also the endurance. So, we will do a lot of work in the gym, in tennis I believe I can serve a bit better, um, I can do everything better, eh, but on the other hand, I believe that the important step that I made and that we made was really the mental step of how to face certain matches, certain moments, eh, but yes, certainly there is still work to do.
Gazzetta, here he is, hi Jannik, again congratulations. Darren Cahill said in a press conference that Simone is the coach with whom he has worked best in his career, after all, he has a lot of experience, what in particular makes the difference in working with Simone?
But I believe the most important thing is how they work together, the two of them, I mean, Simone and Aren are open, none of them is invasive on certain things, I think this makes the difference. Simone is very, very good technically but also tactically because, in the end, he was a player, he knows which shots work and which don't, but in my opinion, the best thing is that both of them are humble to listen to the other coach and to put themselves in the game, both to understand what is best for me. So, that part there, I mean, there's also to say that Darren has had an incredible career, eh, he has brought many to number one, both male and female, he has done, this was his fifth Slam, so he also knew how to handle, um, pressure, let's say they share a bit, Darren does more that part there of managing, of understanding certain moments, instead, with Simone, we work a bit more on the technical, tactical part.
Gio, hi Jannik, I'm here. So, a less sporty question, but one that interests a lot of people who follow from home and that especially ignites social media at this moment. Amadeus invited you to Sanremo and then he also told you that even if you won't come, we will still support you. Will you support Sanremo, and have you decided whether to go to the festival or not?
I'll support from home, no, no, look, it's not, eh, it's a nice event, but what I'm doing here, two days, for me personally, here after these two days, eh, in quotes, Australia is over, there's a look forward, I have to repeat, when I should go to Sanremo, I'll already be working, so that's what I like to do, and so I won't go to Sanremo.
Corriere della Sera, Jannik, hi, welcome. Regarding the Sinnermania that is going crazy in Italy, have you formed an idea at the end of what people like so much about you, big, small, children, adults, famous, not famous, everyone adores you, but if I asked you why, beyond the fact that you are a winning tennis player, is there a message from you that gets through, do you think, to people?
Certainly, to get to the point of knowing an athlete, you have to win something, no, eh, on the other hand, it's how one handles all these things here, I mean, of, um, of how one reacts with a success, eh, how one takes a lost match, perhaps even important, eh, how he manages the people who are around because this in the end is my job and it is my most important job, and nothing, I believe that I am a quite simple, normal guy, eh, in the end I am 22 years old, eh, I like playing on the computer as I like eating something in my room alone sometimes, I mean, I am a normal guy
Here, Jannik, the success in Melbourne has actually anticipated a bit the stages because last year you had declared my goal is to qualify for the Finals in Turin and you managed to achieve this goal and then last year you always said my goal is to have a season as number 4 in the world, winning a Slam is already a season as number 4 in the world, so I ask you what could now be the new goals if you have reviewed them a bit after the extraordinary success in Australia?
We haven't talked about this yet, certainly our goal this year is just to play a bit better the Grand Slams than last year, I made a semi at Wimbledon which is good but there are three others, I mean, the first one couldn't go better but on the other hand, eh, I mean, what I said before, I mean, in the end it doesn't end here, the season, I mean, on the contrary, it has just started, in the preparation we worked a lot but I also missed a lot the competition and when I arrived there, the first tournament I did in the end was Melbourne and I was very, very happy to be on the field, I was charged and physically I felt good, now the goals
obviously are to try to do well at every tournament where you go, as I said at the beginning of the year, you go hunting then we'll see what you can catch, there will be some good weeks, some not so good weeks, but surely the confidence I gained with the end of last year and this year so far has gone very well, let's see then how the rest goes.
Sport, Lorenzo, hi Jannik, I wanted to ask you something instead about who could have been your opponent in the final, that is, Alexander Zverev, because if on one hand Medvedev is an enigma that you have solved, maybe Zverev is an enigma that you still have to solve because then he beat you the last time in New York last year when your transformation was almost complete, so I ask you a bit how you would have lived that match and especially seeing this Zverev if you think that then he can be part of the season in the sense of attacking those first four,
yes, he will certainly be a very important player of this season and has played very well in the ATP Cup or anyway in the United Cup, he has not lost a match, he won the Unit Cup, he won, he won many matches there in Australia in Open so he will be tough to beat, I can't wait to face him because he is a player who serves very well, responds well, moves well, I mean, he is a complete player that we have seen beating the number ones for a long time, eh, with Alcaraz he played really excellent tennis and so we hope to challenge him as soon as possible because anyway he is a player that I would like to, um, challenge, three out of five changes because obviously there are more difficult moments to fight but surely he will be a very strong one not only in this season but especially then in the years to come.
Jannik, now all of Italy loves you and tomorrow you go to the President of the Republic amid so many compliments there is also a criticism which is that of your residence abroad in Montecarlo so the question is uncomfortable is ugly maybe but it must be asked would you bring your residence back to Italy?
then when I was 18 years old I trained in Bordighera with my former coach who anyway had residence in Monaco I said I'm going there too, um, the most beautiful thing about Monaco is that there are really many tennis players with whom you can train, the facilities are perfect, there are different gyms, the courts are good and so honestly there I feel I feel at home and I'm fine there I have a normal life I can go to the supermarket with zero problems and so not eh I'm fine there,
here, Mediaset, hi, I'm here, hi again, I wanted to ask you eh on the newspapers we are clearly getting excited no also in compiling tables on your possible biggest milestone I believe no reaching number one in the ranking is it a goal for you do you feel ready is it something that maybe annoys you that there is at this moment all this precocity no this acceleration this pressure somehow thanks
"But pressure, I always say that it's a privilege to have it. Obviously, when things go well, you always want more, and that's normal. But I'm quite calm with it. My team and I are really working to reach our goals and dreams. My dream has always been to win a Slam. I know now how it feels, and we are working to have this feeling again. For me, the most beautiful thing is to go back on the field and to work because, in the end, it's really this that brought me this success. There are many differences in the first five, then there are the first three, then there's the number one. First, I'm number four, so we try, or anyway, we try first to take a small step forward. That, if you ask me, is the goal just there, and then we'll see how it goes."
allow me to ask in German …
"I mean, regarding the questions asked earlier, not about how one feels or the desire to return to Sesto, which is the place where I was born and everything. The intention was really to first go to Sesto to see my parents, but then a tragedy occurred with an accident resulting in three deaths, including two very young children and their mother. The third child is in the hospital, and the father, the dad, is left, so to speak, alone, supporting his son in the hospital. Therefore, I did not want to go to Sesto just for this reason. It's a really difficult moment, and just for this reason, I do not want to go to Sesto to overlook such an event because I do not know how to react. Having a celebration there is absolutely not appropriate. So, I said let's do it here since tomorrow I have commitments with the Davis Cup."
the Republic I redo the question is it more difficult to respond to match points or to all these questions and how do you think to handle all this ok thanks
"Um, no, I believe that the most important thing is really to stay with the people who are closest to me. No, uh, my team, that um, also they are a bit in the midst of all this, and as I said before, uh, I want to, um, I want to be there and let them a bit out because it's a situation not simple, but it's also a beautiful situation. That is, uh, it's an honor to be here talking to you, and so it's much more relaxing to talk at the end of this than playing with a bit of tension on the field, even if I like it much, much more. And so, nothing, all all."
"Agora tennis is a metaphor for life, as even the Pope said it congratulating you. And you, who on Sunday overturned a match that seemed almost decided, down by 27 to 0, in a moment when many Italians struggle to go forward. You, who come from a family that knows hardship, your brother told of not even stopping at home to watch you but of having seen your match in the container where he was working. What message do you feel to give to those who do not see a break so within reach, where, in short, they see a still a bit laborious future ahead of them?
But I, in my head, have always said that, eh, with the hard work that one puts in, with having the right people around you, which anyway is something you can control, and in the end, with all the things, with the emotions, with the desire to win, in short, all the things you can control inside myself, with my brain and everything, eh, is the most important thing. Then, how the opponent plays, how's the situation, if there's wind, and all those things there, in the meantime, you can't control. So, always give your best, run for any ball because anyway anything can happen on a tennis court, and also, it can be quite unpredictable. No, um, when the match seems lost, you can still win; when the match seems that you've almost won, and anyway, it can happen also this when there's match point and then you lose, can happen, but it's always a bit, obviously, mental but also the desire to continue to suffer."
"Baldo, well, first of all, congratulations, you made us thrill incredibly; someone even cried. And I would like to ask you the thing that is most surprising for those who have seen so many champions stop also young. But I, for example, had never seen a 20-year-old who is capable of choosing the team, the physiotherapist, and if he goes to look for it, and the osteopath if he goes to look for it. I mean, you did the manager. I mean, you did the manager at 20 years old, and it's the most surprising thing because usually, others do it for the athletes, etc. I would like to know how you were born so, because you did not do management studies, etc."
"It's a natural thing. How do you explain it? What was the most difficult choice among all those you made, including that of at a certain point switching from one with whom you had been 5 years, and you went to a whole other team, then it went very well, and vivere, eh, boh, no said F, think a moment, that SC, eh, I believe I speak now about myself. The life I am living is made all a bit of situations. There are situations where it's going well, and there are situations where it goes bad. There are also situations where it's going well, but there's this 'but', and I had this 'but' in my head, and I made a choice that at the beginning seemed crazy, eh, but I said, I throw myself into the fire, that is, I want to know another method of work, and it's not said that it was the right move, it's not said that it was a wrong move because you never know, maybe if I stayed there, I was stronger than how I am now, and so, not, you know. Obviously, behind me, there are the people who anyway help me, I must be good at understanding them, but in the end, it's me who chooses, so, eh, I have to understand also myself, what I'm looking for because before that, it's not that you go shopping and say, I don't know if I take this or not because that, not, I don't even know how to cook, I mean, not, it doesn't even make sense. So, it's quite, eh, it was quite difficult here, but what I understood is that my team does not have to be the best team of all, it has to be, must be all people who understand each other, that everyone does his job, he, eh, he is the physio, and he does this, he does that other, and they are all good, normal people, and this, and it's this that I looked for."
"From News 24, yes, hello Sinner, congratulations again. You are definitely the character of the moment; all of Italy loves you and recognizes your great, undeniable qualities. But if you had to recognize yourself one, that one quality you recognize yourself, one good thing, the best."
"Um, a quality, not, it's not easy, I don't know, eh, maybe just, of, um, in my opinion, it's all work. I mean, not, there are no secrets, it's not a secret that one manages to reach a nice milestone, not. I mean, the secret is just to maybe work even more than the others. I mean, I don't know, I only know myself, but it's how much one is professional, of, but also this is a quality because anyway I wake up in the morning and it's the first thing I think, and today I have to train. In the end, not, there's no secret behind.
Is there something that scares you or puts you at [music] discomfort?
I mean, perspective is going all straight, no, it's not said that it's going all straight, but not, not I'm scared. I mean, not, not I would know of what, um, I in my head, it's always a tennis match, so it's, it's what that I like to do. I'm going on the field calm with the desire to win, if my opponent is better than me on that day there, I shake his hand, and and I go back to train, so not, not I'm scared. Certainly, there will be moments more difficult to manage, but not, not, not I'm scared."
May I ask you in English um I was very interested in hear your comments about your parents and how grateful and so it sounds like they didn't throw you out of the bed in the morning and saying go work on your back so can you tell us a little bit more about that
"I guess my parents are special because when I went back from school, my parents weren't there as they were working. When I came back around 4:30, my mom used to be at home, but I went to play tennis, sometimes a little bit or football, so I was not that much at home. And I think that's the kind of mentality they gave me, you know, if you want to reach something, you have to work, and that's this kind of work ethic. Obviously, you can learn most of the time because of them, and my dad is still cooking; he still sometimes helps in the restaurant a little bit. My mom is at home; she tries to help my grandma and grandpa's place, so you know, they are always working, and that's what I love about them. And they're not changing anything with me; I'm the normal person who I was when I was a very young kid. More private life because we might have a house where we can play together."
"Complimenti ai genitori. Paolo FR Paolo, hi Jannik, listen, in this, your having become a symbol of Italian sport in the world so quickly, there is obviously something that is not yet seen in the background but that is there, that is the five Olympic rings. This summer, there are the Olympics, and what I wanted to know from you is if it's something you're thinking about, if you have talked about it, if you have planned, and if, since the bookmakers are quoting the possibility that you could be the flag bearer, if this thing, obviously, I imagine you would like, but if you also think about this thing here. No, the last thing not yet, but I have already said at the end of last year, the Olympics will be a key moment."
"For me, and also for my growth and career, it will be the first time that I play them, and so I'm happy to be part also, especially to understand and see how to live in such a moment because there are so many athletes, or all the best athletes in the world, and I can't wait to meet some of them, to take positive cues that maybe can help me. And so we'll see, but surely it will be one of the most important tournaments, most important of the year, because they are not there every year. So, I am so happy to finally play and to see all these things, and we hope that Italy can bring home more medals possible."
"Hi Jan, there is much talk of Vagnozzi, and a little less about Alex Vittur, who, however, is a person you have known for a long time. He works a lot behind the scenes. I wanted to ask how is the relationship with him and how much he has influenced in bringing Vagnozzi."
"From a long time, yes, Alex is the person who is closest to me of all. He also helped me to make certain choices when I have a problem, in quotes, 'bigger.' I go to look for him. So, he is now helping me to do also other things. But he is the person who, in quotes, 'I,' who I met when I was around 13 years old, and now is certainly the person with whom I understand the most because he knows me since I was 13 years old. He knows how I am, knows how I was, and I believe that both of us speak a bit the same language here. When there are decisions to be made, he knew Simone because they trained together and all, was always quite in contact with him, and according to him and according to us, Simone was an excellent coach. And now that I'm working with him, I'm getting to know him a bit better. Anyway, now we know each other very well, and in combination with Darren, the combination, so also from outside, is very, very, very rare to find. And I have to thank Alex for really many things of what we have done and of what we are doing because, I repeat, he is helping me a lot. And so, let's say that little is talked about him because also he wants that little is talked, and so I tell you little."
"Hi Jannik, thanks, I'm here, ready, ready, ready. Thanks for everything, thanks for all these beautiful answers that you are giving us because I think you have said them all right. I wanted to ask you three simple ones. The first, your relationship with social media. If I remember correctly, there was an interview in which you said that you use social media quite little. I have to ask you if it's true and why you use them little. The second, if you read, if you like reading, and possibly what. And then, since you watch fiction series TV, what, especially, you like to watch. Thanks."
"Then, social media, I don't like them, eh. TV series, I'm watching, was watching in Australia, is called 'Animal Kingdom,' only that here in Italy it is not seen. And anyway, yes, you have to put the VPN in Australia, and it's illegal, it's illegal, yes, in fact, I don't have it, they tell you. And then the third, books, it's worth a bit moments because there are moments where I read a lot and moments where I don't read at all. I mean, I don't always carry a book behind, eh, but not for the moment, not, I'm reading, because social media, I don't like. Excuse me, social, because not, not I'm that there, I mean, it's not that there the truth. I mean, in the end, you see, you see certain things."
"But here we are, hi Jannik. When you win a tournament so important, often, I imagine, also for you, you go back a bit in the past with the mind, no, to everything that has been. Always mentioned Riccardo, always mentioned Simone and Darren, obviously. How important was, tennistically, humanly, your first coach, then Erbert Meer? If you heard from him, what he told you, I imagine he will have been very excited."
"Obviously, I thank all the people who helped me make my path to arrive at what I am now. Harbert has been, is a really strong coach. All the best of South Tyrol have gone to him, but also he is a great person, there is a very good person. Sometimes we hear from each other. He showed me the message he wrote to Alex, was excited. So sometimes when I am, when I'm up there, we see each other, we have a great relationship, and I have to thank really him because he was the only coach there in Alto Adige, besides Andreas Scheker of Alto Adige and of San Candido, and there were only those two. I mean, I trained with them two, obviously with the first really little, then after with Harbert until I made that choice to go away from home, it was always him. So we did a great job."
hi Jannik congratulations I wanted to take a step back and ask you when you found yourself choosing between skiing and tennis what pushed you to choose tennis thanks but in in skiing?
"I had won Italian championships when I was 8 years old; in 2012, I was second, so I was very, very strong in skiing. Then there were two seasons where I went a bit so-so because you always have a year where you go against those bigger, and there I had done a lot of effort. Normally, I always did slalom and giant, then there also arrived the downhill, but I weighed too little to compete. And then, tennis, I continued to play quite two to three times a week with some tournaments that were on. And then, after, I said, in the end, in skiing, you make a mistake, and you lose, and you can no longer win; it's dangerous, you have to wake up early in the morning to go to minus 20. I said maybe tennis is a bit better, it's more comfortable, eh, and in the end, I think I made the right choice, but not for the successes, but just because it made me grow faster as a person. No, when I went away from home the first times, when you do the shopping, when you cook, when all those things there where you know you have to grow quite fast to keep up with everything, but according to me, just for this, I made the right choice."
"Hi Jannik, congratulations. First, you said, 'I'm the same guy as two weeks ago.' Here, going back a bit further to that guy who in 2019 arrived in Rome to play the prequalifications, how have you changed? Are you more mature, do you have more pressures, even if then you already had big expectations around? Do you still enjoy playing tennis? You had longer hair, if I'm not mistaken."
"Yes, I also played with a blister under my foot, I remember. But I believe that certainly people change because with age you change, but the main things, in my opinion, remain. If a person is humble, if the person continues to work, success is a positive thing but it does not change you, in my opinion. Then I hope, I hope so, to not be wrong, but I'm quite sure that I remain the same. This, for me, is also the most important thing. No, um, certainly in 2019, eh, when I played the pre-qualifications here, you have many more doubts. I mean, the desire to arrive is very, very high, but you say, 'OK, what do I do if I don't make it to arrive? What do I do if I lose the match? Am I doing the right things or not?' Instead, now, you are much more aware. Um, certainly you have doubts before the match, you always have doubts, and then after the match, g says, 'But why did you have doubts about this match?' because anyway, it's a normal thing. But, um, if, in my opinion, more than anything else, it's just the maturity of understanding certain things a bit before, as I understand them now a bit before, and of there, eh, when I was young, I understood them a bit later.
"Hi Laura Squizzato, Tg2. I'm often dealing with the Sinner mania, which is not only that of the fans who follow you, who support you, who dress in orange. There is also a whole range of more silent fans, especially on the tennis courts. All the clubs notice that after this victory, but let's say in recent months, thanks to the good health of Italian tennis, the registrations increase, returns the desire to play also, not only at a competitive level. Do you like it? Is it a type of tribute or manifestation for this sport that you love and carry?"
"I believe that this is the most important thing, that is to bring as many people as possible into tennis because tennis is a sport that can be played at any age. It's healthy as a sport because, anyway, there's competition but there's no contact, and where anyway, if you play soccer, it's a bit different. You only need a racket and a ball, eh. So, I believe that that step there, of bringing as many people as possible to play tennis, is the most important step that we are making. Because let's not forget that I speak of what I have lived: Fonini has won Montecarlo, then after came Berrettini, now there's me in this moment, but all of us are doing something for the future in Italian tennis. And we hope that there are so many young people who go to train, that they have fun playing tennis. No, this is the biggest objective, and I'm pleased here that there's more movement in Italian tennis."
"I was in Cortina on Sunday for the World Cup races. There were the races, but everyone was watching you, so there was a great atmosphere. My question, because these three days in Rome seem to have arrived a head of state, but that is a tennis player who has won a very important tournament for Italy, eh, the question is: what Sinner will we see now in the next tournaments in the coming weeks with opponents who naturally will also have a different approach towards you, will want to beat you here?"
"I mean, as I said before, the future, you cannot know, but on the other hand, it's just for this reason that, eh, I go to train as soon as possible because I have to prepare. The opponents now know me, know my weaknesses, uh, most players have little to lose against me, so they play a bit more freely. But, in the end, this is the sport. I mean, I like this position, I like the pressure, and so, um, I wrote yesterday to my team, 'Guys, we have to prepare because, um, we have to work.' This was my message, and so we will do even more work than before and be even more focused, and we hope to do well."
"TGR Lazio, I renew the request to be concise if you want to ask all your questions. When you won the Davis Cup, you made a beautiful dedication to Matteo Berrettini, and I wanted to know if before the final in Melbourne you had heard from each other, or if eventually, you had heard from each other after once you won the tournament."
"No, we heard from each other after, and he wrote a beautiful message. He is a really strong player, and so I hope to see him as soon as possible. I know now he has had a wild card for the tournament. We hope to see him again in shape because he is a person, a player who is missing a bit in the circuit. And so, he made me compliments, as did a bit all the team of the Davis Cup. We have now also an excellent double with Vavassori and Bolelli that for us will be fundamental. And that's it, but yes, let's say that Matteo is, he has also always helped me sometimes, and I'm grateful. Now, if he needs, if he should ask me something as already happened a few times, I mean, I am very open to help him because I care a lot about him."
"Hi Jannik, and listen, talking about skiing and about Alberto Tomba who wants to ski with you. He has said that you seem like Clark Kent, that when you go on the field, you transform into Superman. Do you feel a bit like a superhero?"
"No, unfortunately, no. But yes, we hear from each other sometimes, really a great guy. Let's say that he is a legend, because what he has done, I mean, it's been incredible. And just being in contact with him, to me, it brings so many emotions. We hope to go skiing together; it would be a very special thing. I had asked him at Christmas if he could come, but he had to be with his family. But we hope that somehow it does happen, because it would be a nice thing."
"Vincenzo Marucci, hi, congratulations. Obviously, when you talked about your parents, it must have been emotional for them to hear those words. Did you also want to send a message to other parents? You saw difficult situations that have hindered other tennis players. It was a message, anyway, indirect, but it was a message. Then, when you win, it's a possibility to thank a bit everyone, no? Um, there's a positive thing and a negative thing?"
"Now, the negative thing is that there are many people outside my parents' house, and it's a bit of a mess, so from that side, I made the mess here. But on the other hand, there are always those parents who simply put a bit of pressure on the kids. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I made more a speech in general, I mean, about leaving also the freedom because often, not at a very low age, with 10 years, 12 years, sometimes they don't have the freedom maybe to go play soccer or anyway to be only with friends to play a bit on the computer, those things there. So, I made more a speech a bit in general. Then, I know only my story; my story taught me values, in my opinion, good. But every player, every parent is different, so I don't want to enter into that department."
"Unicusano, raise your hand, here comes the microphone, we made it. Hi Jannik, congratulations. I hook onto the question of the previous colleague. We are talking about parents; you talked about values of family to the kids. Today, you are a model, a reference for them. They cling a lot to social media; they spend a lot of time on social media. Here, you, instead, no. What do you feel, what do you feel to say to these kids?"
no of of simply of of being careful because it makes you it makes you see maybe today I'm bad I'm crying but on the on social media I post a happy picture already that sends a wrong message no but nobody knows that I am at home and and I'm crying like can be a thing that goes beyond my I mean of of talking about of of other people but maybe it's not even that what I'm thinking let's say that I on social media I'm so far away I'm I have so much respect so I try at least to use them very very little even if anyway sometimes I have to check I some things but let's say that I'm living happy also or maybe I'm living better without without social media so I will continue to do so about social media

Updated on 02/05/2024:

1. Added a new section on Vine & State Income Tax
2. Added a new section on Vine & Student Loan Repayment
3. Revised the paragraph on Zero ETV Items, removing the statement that these items are "tax-free" and instead stating that Amazon considers consumables to have zero ETV and does not report them on Form 1099-NEC.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Welcome to the 2023 Vine Tax FAQ!
This FAQ provides an overview of tax-related issues affecting Amazon Vine product reviewers in the USA. It is strictly informational and does not constitute tax or legal advice. For tax-related questions about Vine income, consult with a CPA or tax professional, especially if you are reporting Vine income for the first time.
This FAQ is a work in progress and may be updated to reflect suggestions, corrections, and changes in tax law during the coming months.
Estimated Tax Value (ETV):
When you order a Vine product, it will always have an Estimated Tax Value or ETV. This amount is shown when you open the popup window to order the item. The ETV should reflect the product’s Fair Market Value and is usually equal or close to the retail price set by the seller. Amazon tracks the ETV for items you order during the year. So, if you order a $10 hairbrush, a $50 flatware set, and a $30 desk organizer, your ETV will be $90 ($10 + $50 + $30). This means you have $90 of taxable income. Most Vine product reviewers will order numerous products throughout the year, and their ETV will increase with each order.
Consequences of ETV:
Vine compensation is treated as income by the IRS, just like wages from a regular job or interest earned on a savings account. It increases your taxable income, and it will probably increase your income tax bill next year. Some argue that Vine products are gifts and should not be taxed as they’re not cash, but it is well-established that the IRS treats both cash and non-cash compensation as taxable income. Vine can be fun, but it also can be addictive, and frequent ordering can rapidly push up your ETV and tax liability.
Keeping Track of Your ETV:
Monitoring your ETV is important due to its tax implications. You might choose to slow down or stop ordering after your ETV reaches a certain amount. You can easily track your ETV on your Vine account dashboard. Log in, click “Account,” navigate to “Taxable value by year,” and select “2024” from the dropdown menu to view your current ETV total. To review specific orders, click “Download itemized report for 2024” and choose PDF or Excel format.
Who Gets the Tax Bill for Vine?
When you joined the Vine program, you were required to provide a Tax ID number. This is probably your Social Security number or, if you access Vine through an Amazon Business account, it is your Employer ID Number (EIN). Amazon uses the tax ID number that you provided to report your Vine earnings to the IRS.
Your 1099-NEC Form:
If your ETV for the calendar year exceeds $600, Amazon will issue a 1099-NEC form and report your Vine income to the both IRS and your state tax authority. If your ETV is below $600, or linked to a corporation, you won’t receive a 1099-NEC, but you are still legally required to report this income on your tax return.
Downloading Your 1099-NEC Form:
Your 1099-NEC form should be available by Jan 20, 2025. You can download it from your Vine account page by logging in, clicking “Account,” and scrolling to the “Start/Update Questionnaire” button. Click, and the form will be available under the “Download Form” link. Keep a copy of your 1099-NEC for your records and for tax filing purposes.
Does the IRS Get a Copy of Your 1099-NEC Form?
Yes, Amazon will send a copy of your 1099-NEC to the IRS, so not reporting this income is ill-advised as the IRS will be aware of it. Failure to report this income may lead to a notice from the IRS demanding that you pay additional income tax and self-employment tax on the unreported income. These notices are typically mailed 12-36 months post-filing, although tax audits can go back six years, or indefinitely if no return was filed.
How Much Tax Will I Owe?
Tax liability for Vine income usually ranges from 10% to 30%. The exact amount of tax you’ll owe will depend on various factors including your total income, deductions, and filing status. You can keep your tax hit reasonably low by prudent ordering and self-restraint. Think carefully about the potential tax you could owe on each item you order, especially products with a high ETV.
Vine and State Income Tax
If you live in a state that levies state income tax, you will need to factor this into your overall tax bill. In some states, the tax is minimal, in other high-tax states like California, New York, and New Jersey, it may add 5-10% more to your tax bill, depending on your income, tax bracket, and other considerations.
ETV and Overpriced Products:
Overpriced products on Vine are sometimes an issue. While ETV is supposed to reflect a product’s retail price, that’s not always the case. Extreme cases have occurred, such as a USB cable listed on Vine with a $9,999,999 ETV but its true value was under $10. Inflated prices can increase your ETV and your tax bill, so it’s important that you use caution when ordering such items, or don’t order them at all. Many Vine reviewers refuse to order over-priced products on principle, and they avoid products with large coupon discounts Amazon’s regular customers can use, while Vine Voices take a tax hit for the full retail price.
Zero ETV Items:
Certain products on Vine have an Estimated Tax Value of zero. Typically, these items include consumables such as food, cosmetics, vitamins, and occasionally, unexpected categories such as adult sex toys. Many Vine Voices search for Zero ETV items, so these products are in high demand and snapped up quickly. Zero ETV items are included in a Vine member’s order history and might actually have a dollar value for tax purposes, but Amazon presently does not track or report ETV on consumables.
Vine, SSI & Other Assistance Programs:
If you are receiving social safety net benefits such as disability or welfare benefits SSI, SNAP, or Medicaid, and you have joined Vine, you need to read this section! Participation in Vine can affect your eligibility for these programs. It’s vital to know and adhere to the income limits of these programs and report all earnings, including non-cash compensation from Vine. Vine income should be reported monthly as you receive it to avoid reduced benefits or loss of eligibility. Check with your local social service agency or your caseworker to understand how Vine could impact your benefits. Do not trust online stories claiming that some unnamed caseworker told someone Vine income isn’t countable. Even if that caseworker did choose to ignore Vine income, there’s no assurance your caseworker will arrive at the same conclusion.
Last year, an SSI beneficiary shared this cautionary tale that’s bears repeating: “I am disabled and on various benefits such as housing, SSI & SSD. I racked up $8,000+ on my Vine 1099-NEC for 2022, filed my taxes in January, and didn't owe anything in taxes for Vine. I reported to several agencies. My housing payments went up by $147 per month (huge bite) and I've just lost my SSI (Income gone from $900 to $600 per month). I hope to stay housed. I've got to turn off Vine and I wish I'd deleted the invitation in the first place. I've had a little fun with it but it doesn't pay the bills. I can probably work something out with SSI to have money withheld each month. I called and understand I owe $5,000+ in back pay... yes, due to Vine. I've got to turn Vine off and live without and hopefully, someday normalize again. I wouldn't survive homelessness so I hope it doesn't get to that. I don't think it will but life is going to be challenging due to lack of financial resources.”
If you are on SSI or similar benefit programs, careful management of your Vine income is key. As long as you inform your caseworker about your Vine compensation, know the income limits for your program, and keep a close eye on your ETV total, you can probably order and enjoy a variety of useful products from Vine that you otherwise couldn’t afford.
Vine Income & Student Loan Repayment
If you have student loans and are enrolled in an income-driven repayment plan, such as the new SAVE plan recently announced by the Dept. of Education, your monthly payment amount is determined by your annual income. Vine compensation is counted as ordinary income just like wages from a job, which means you may need to keep an eye on your ETV as the year goes by. You don’t have to report Vine income from month to month in order to maintain eligibility for your payment plan, but you must update your income annually and include Vine compensation in your total earnings. Thus, you may decide to curtail your Vine participation as your annual income grows and could lead to a potentially significant increase in your monthly loan repayment amount when you recertify your income next year. Details on the process for recertifying your annual income can be found here.
--- PART TWO – EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF ETV ON TAXES
In this section, we’ll address a common debate among Vine product reviewers: whether to report Vine compensation as hobby income or self-employment income. Let’s begin by defining some key tax terms.
Income:
This is a broad term that encompasses all money and value of services received from various sources like wages, dividends, interest, rent, gambling wins, gifts, and inheritances. Income is often classified into categories such as earned income, unearned income, passive income, etc.
Compensation:
More specific than income, this term refers to money or benefits received in exchange for services or work. This includes wages, commissions, bonuses, and non-cash payments like fringe benefits, products, and use of a company car. Vine compensation falls under this definition.
Profit:
Profit is the financial gain realized when income from an activity exceeds the associated expenses, costs, and taxes. Gross Profit is revenue minus the cost of goods sold (COGS). Net Profit, or the bottom line, is the actual profit after expenses.
Vine Compensation as Income:
Vine compensation is income; specifically, it’s compensation Amazon pays you for reviewing products. Despite claims from some Vine members who argue that Vine products are “gifts” and thus should not be taxed, the IRS view is that compensation can include both cash and non-cash forms. Vine income is non-cash but is still considered income, and it is reported to the IRS on your 1099-NEC.
It's All Taxable Income, Says the IRS:
The IRS does not differentiate between cash and non-cash compensation; it’s all taxable income. Your 1099-NEC reports the amount of your Vine earnings, and it’s treated the same as cash wages, savings interest, and other kinds of income.
A Gray Area in Tax Law:
While Vine compensation is taxable income, whether it can be reported on your tax return as “hobby income” or “self-employment income” is unsettled. This distinction is critical because it influences how you report Vine income on your tax return, especially in terms of self-employment tax. Soi let’s look at a few more tax terms.
Hobby Income:
The IRS defines hobby income as money earned from activities pursued for enjoyment, not profit. This includes sporadic income from hobbies without the intent or expectation of profit.
Self-Employment Income:
This term refers to earnings from a business or trade engaged in with “regularity and continuity” and with the intent or expectation of a profit. According to the IRS, if you perform services as a nonemployee and receive compensation, you are considered self-employed.
FICA Tax vs. SECA Tax:
FICA tax, deducted from employees’ paychecks, covers Social Security and Medicare. It is 15.3% of an employee’s gross earnings. Employers pay half (7.65%), and employees pay the other half of this tax. Self-employed individuals pay a similar tax (SECA) at the same 15.3% rate, but without an employer to split the cost. The IRS allows self-employed individuals to deduct half of this tax from their gross income to ease the burden. Even so, some people resent having to pay SE tax and seek ways to lower or avoid it.
Advantages of Claiming Hobby Income:
Hobby income isn’t subject to the 15.3% self-employment tax. However, you cannot deduct expenses, so the entire 1099-NEC amount is subject to income tax.
Advantages of Claiming Self-Employment Income:
Reporting Vine earnings as self-employment income allows for expense deductions and may reduce both self-employment tax and income tax, resulting in a lower tax bill than if reported as hobby income.
Silence From the IRS:
The IRS not stated whether Vine income may be reported as hobby or self-employment income, nor has the IRS stated that reporting it as hobby income is permissible. This uncertainty creates a gray area with conflicting interpretations among tax professionals. Even so, it’s a good idea to consult with a competent tax preparer, like a CPA or an Enrolled Agent (EA), for advice on reporting your Vine income. Accurate tax filing is your responsibility, and understanding the IRS definitions of hobby income and self-employment income is key to making an informed decision. These next sections will delve deeper into this question.
IRS Definition of a Hobby:
The IRS defines a hobby as an activity pursued for pleasure or recreation, with no intent or expectation of making a profit. In determining whether an activity is a hobby, the IRS considers factors such as how the activity is carried on, its “regularity and continuity,” and its sporadic nature. Those who advocate reporting Vine as a hobby point to IRS guidelines listing characteristics that differentiate a business from a hobby, including:

1. Expertise: Does the taxpayer possess the necessary knowledge to conduct the activity as a successful business?
2. Time and Effort: Is significant time and effort invested in the activity, suggesting an intent to make it profitable?
3. Profitability: Are there instances where the activity has been profitable, and to what extent?
4. History of Income or Losses: Consistent losses may indicate a lack of profit motive.
5. Amount of Occasional Profits: The scale of any occasional profits earned.
6. Taxpayer's Financial Status: Substantial income from other sources could imply the activity is not profit-driven, especially in the presence of losses.
7. Personal Pleasure or Recreation: Significant personal or recreational elements may indicate a lack of profit motive.

The IRS cautions that these factors are guidelines, not strict rules, with no one factor determining an activity’s classification. The specific facts and circumstances of each case are considered in the IRS’s assessment.
Vine as Self-Employment Income:
A second viewpoint is that Vine activity is self-employment. This opinion is supported by IRS guidance stating, “If payment for services you provided is listed on Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation, the payer is treating you as a self-employed worker, also referred to as an independent contractor. You don't necessarily have to have a business for payments for your services to be reported on Form 1099-NEC. You may simply perform services as a nonemployee.” This view is further reinforced by many authoritative online sources, such as CPA and tax law websites, citing IRS guidance that income reported on Form 1099-NEC is usually self-employment income.
This situation poses a dilemma for Vine reviewers. If you are deciding how to report your Vine income, or plan to discuss this with a tax professional, consider the following: Enjoyment of writing product reviews and receiving free products, without a profit motive, suggests a hobby activity. On the other hand, receiving a 1099-NEC for Vine complicates the hobby argument, as it demonstrates an expectation and certainty of profit, which is reported on Form 1099-NEC. Ultimately, the IRS would consider whether you are ordering products and writing reviews on a “regular and continuous basis.” Infrequent reviews only once or twice a month might align with hobby income, while more frequent reviewing may suggest a regular, continuous activity, consistent with self-employment.
Three “Profitable” Years:
If you earn hobby income on a regular basis, the IRS may reclassify your hobby as a business or trade. The general rule is that if an activity makes a profit in three out of five consecutive years, or in the first three years, it’s presumed to be a business rather than a hobby. Reclassification would lead to a notice demanding that you pay self-employment tax, regardless of your view on the nature of Vine activities.
The Risks of Claiming Hobby Income:
Reporting Vine compensation as hobby income carries the risk of IRS scrutiny, because the IRS considers 1099-NEC income to be from self-employment. If you receive a Tax Due notice, you can argue your position to the IRS, but there’s no guarantee they will agree. Likewise, if the IRS eventually decides that Vine is self-employment, you might need to file an amended tax return and pay any additional tax owed.
The Risks of Claiming Self-Employment Income:
Reporting Vine income as self-employment aligns with how the IRS generally views income on Form 1099-NEC, thus reducing audit risk. The potential challenge lies in substantiating business deductions you might claim. Organizing receipts and documentation of your expenses can be time-consuming but may lead to legitimate tax deductions. Furthermore, self-employment directly benefits you by funding Social Security and Medicare. It can enhance your Social Security earning record and give you a higher retirement benefit. Vine income, when reported as self-employment earnings, also helps accrue credits for Social Security and Medicare eligibility, which is helpful to those with an inconsistent work history.
It Depends on Your Situation:
Without specific IRS guidance, how you report Vine income depends on your view of whether your Vine activities are more akin to a hobby or self-employment. If you are uncertain, you should consult with a CPA or Enrolled Agent. They can offer tailored guidance and potentially help reduce your tax liability.
Following are two opinions on the Hobby versus Self-employment Date offered by knowledgeable CPAs who kindly offered their perspectives. The first response is from Jason Watson, CPA, Partner at WCG Inc., a Colorado CPA firm with worldwide clients. Website link: https://wcginc.com/
Jason’s View:

It is a facts and circumstance situation...not all Vine situations are the same. A few bucks here and there is likely to fall under the hobby rules. Anyone who spends a material amount of time and/or relies on the income to support themselves will likely have to pay self-employment taxes and income taxes. We have a handful of clients who receive 1099s for their product use and reviews. Some are also Amazon resellers, so we typically aggregate the activities into one. Others are more hobbyists.

A second response from Amy Northard, CPA, at The Accountants for Creatives, provides a more in-depth look at the issues. Amy can be reached on Reddit at amynorthardcpa and her website URL is https://amynorthardcpa.com/
Amy’s View:

The classification of Amazon Vine compensation as hobby income or self-employment income is one of those complex issues tax professionals may have different opinions on. To provide some context and insights, I'll present both sides of the argument, based on general tax principles and IRS guidelines.
View #1: Amazon Vine Compensation as Hobby Income
Some tax professionals and Vine members argue that Amazon Vine compensation can be reported as hobby income. Their reasoning includes:
Voluntary Nature: Vine members voluntarily participate in the program to review products they receive for free. They argue that this is akin to a hobby or leisure activity, and they do not engage in it for profit.
Nine Characteristics of a Business: The IRS uses nine characteristics to determine whether an activity is a business or a hobby. Vine members argue that they do not meet these characteristics, as they do not have a profit motive, do not engage in systematic and continuous activity for profit, and do not carry on the activity with the expectation of making a profit.
IRS's Own Guidance: The IRS guidance states that payments for services can be reported on Form 1099-NEC even if one does not have a business. This suggests that not all payments reported on Form 1099-NEC are necessarily subject to self-employment tax.
View #2: Amazon Vine Compensation as Self-Employment Income
On the other hand, there is a prevailing view among tax professionals that Amazon Vine compensation should be reported as self-employment income, and they point to the following factors:
Independent Contractor Classification: Amazon classifies Vine members as independent contractors, and the compensation is reported on Form 1099-NEC as payment for services rendered. This aligns with the definition of self-employment income.
Regular and Substantial Activity: Vine members engage in reviewing products on an ongoing and regular basis throughout the year, which suggests that it is not sporadic income characteristic of a hobby.
Profit Motive: While Vine members may argue they do not have a profit motive, the IRS could contend that receiving significant compensation in the form of valuable merchandise constitutes an economic benefit and thus a profit motive.
IRS Guidance:
The IRS has not issued specific guidance regarding the tax treatment of Amazon Vine compensation. The IRS's general guidance states that income from various sources, including services as a nonemployee, may be taxable. Whether it is subject to self-employment tax depends on factors such as the nature of the activity and the intent to make a profit. The IRS has a private letter ruling service is a written decision by the IRS that is sent in response to a taxpayer’s request for guidance on unusual circumstances or complex questions about their specific tax situation. I recommend you reach out to them if you would like a definitive answer to your question.
My Professional Opinion:
In most situations I would recommend my clients treat it as business income so they can deduct expenses against it. Internet, camera/video equipment, product review software, social media software, shipping costs, etc. are all types of expenses that can be deducted against the income received. For the majority of the Amazon Vine reviewers, the expenses would likely outweigh the SE tax imposed.

--- PART 3 – VINE & TAX DEDUCTIONS
If you consider your Vine activity as hobby income, there’s no need to save your expense receipts as you cannot claim deductions. Report your Vine income on Line 8 (Other Income) on Schedule 1 of Form 1040. The entire amount on your 1099-NEC is subject to income tax, but you won’t owe self-employment tax. Your tax bill will depend on your tax bracket; for example, if you have $2,000 of Vine income and you’re in the 22% tax bracket, you’ll owe about $440 in income tax.
If you classify your Vine income as self-employment, you can claim deductions to reduce your income. After deducting expenses from your gross income on your 1099-NEC, your net profit is used to calculate both self-employment and income tax. You’ll report income and expenses on Schedule C of Form 1040, or use other relevant tax forms to report income paid to partnerships and corporations.
Many Deductions Are Possible:
Self-employed individuals may claim a variety of deductions similar to those available to corporations. Some common deductions are discussed below. Deductions must be necessary, reasonable, and directly related to your business or trade. Maintain thorough documentation in case the IRS has questions.

• Internet and Phone Bills: You can deduct the business use of Internet service and phone bills. If 20% of your Internet usage is for self-employment activities, you can deduct 20% of the cost. Similarly, if you use your phone 10% of the time for business, you can deduct 10% of the cost of the phone and your monthly service charges.
• Computer and Software: Prorate business and personal use of computers, parts, routers, cables, monitors, and software.
• Office Supplies: Fully deductible if used exclusively for your business or trade; otherwise, prorate items like printers, toner, paper, cameras, video equipment, lighting, microphones, and office supplies.
• Advertising and Marketing: Advertising on social media, website costs, email marketing, pay-per-click marketing, and other costs of promoting your business are fully deductible.
• Subscriptions and Memberships: You can deduct the cost of dues and subscriptions for trade publications and memberships related to your business or self-employment activity.
• Education and Training: Courses, workshops, and books that enhance your business-related skills may be deductible.
• Insurance Premiums: Business liability and equipment insurance premiums are deductible. If policies cover both business and personal coverage, prorate the deduction.
• Legal and Professional Fees: Fees for accountants, lawyers, and consultants are deductible if exclusively business-related.
• Health Insurance Premiums: If you are self-employed and pay for your own health insurance, you may be able to deduct the cost of your premiums. This deduction is taken on your Form 1040 and lowers your AGI. It does not affect the calculation of your net earnings or reduce your self-employment tax.
• Retirement Plan Contributions: Contributions to a SEP IRA plan are deductible up to 20% of net income (for self-employed individuals). This deduction offsets your gross income but does not lower self-employment tax.
• Vehicle Expenses: You can deduct the direct costs of operating your car for business, or you can claim the standard mileage rate. Prorate if the vehicle is used for business and personal use.
• Bank Fees and Interest: Fees and interest charged on business accounts are deductible.
• Depreciation: Depreciation on equipment used in your business or trade is deductible.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Other expenses related to operating your business or trade may be deductible.
• Travel Expenses: Airfare, hotel stays, ground transportation, and a portion of meal costs while traveling for business may be deductible if specifically for business purposes. It’s unlikely this deduction would apply to Vine-related activities.

Home Office Expenses:
Rent or mortgage, utilities, homeowner’s insurance, property taxes, utilities, and home repairs can be prorated and deducted based on the square footage of your home used exclusively for your business or trade. If your child uses the PC in your home office for homework, or you watch sports on a TV in the corner, you cannot claim this deduction. The area must be a room or partitioned area; a desk in a corner of your kitchen won’t qualify.
To calculate this deduction, measure the square footage of your home. Then, measure your home office. The percentage of floor space dedicated to your home office is the prorated amount of expenses you can deduct. For example, if your home is 2,000 square feet and your home office is 200 square feet, you can deduct 10% of rent or mortgage, homeowner’s insurance, property taxes, utilities, and home repairs. So, if your utility bills add up to $3,000 for the year, you can deduct $300.
Direct Expenses: If you have to repair a light fixture in your home office, it is a “direct expense” and you can deduct 100% of the cost. Other direct expenses include building a bookcase in the room, repairing a window, installing carpet, and painting. The material for these projects is 100% deductible, and if you pay a laborer to do the work, that’s fully deductible. If you do the work yourself, you can’t deduct anything for your own labor.
Indirect Expenses: Some of the costs of repairing and maintaining your home outside of your immediate office space may be deductible. These “indirect expenses” are prorated if they are necessary to maintain the safety and functionality of the home. If your roof is leaking and costs $5,000 to repair, and your home office occupies 10% of your home, you can deduct $500. If you replace a light fixture in your kitchen, it’s not deductible because it’s not essential to the integrity of your home. Repairing a clogged toilet is deductible because working plumbing is a sanitation necessity; but remodeling your kitchen for a new look is not deductible. Landscaping may be prorated and deducted if clients come to your home office and view your yard as they traverse your property.
Rather than tracking every expense and savings receipts for your home office, self-employed individuals may instead claim a Standard Home Office Deduction of $5 per square foot for a maximum of 300 feet, or $1,500.
When claiming deductions, it is essential to keep detailed records of all expenses, including amounts, dates, payees, payment methods, and the business purpose of each expense. Track direct and indirect home office expenses separately. If your documentation is well-organized, you’ll be able to substantiate your expenses if case the IRS asks to review your deductions.
--- PART 4: OTHER STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING VINE INCOME
Whether you report your Vine income as a hobby or self-employment, you may find yourself wondering what to do with the pile of products accumulating in your home and whether you can claim a tax write-off. There are various options.
Donate Products:
You might donate some Vine products to your favorite causes. Under your Vine participation agreement, you must keep products for six months before you can give them away. To claim a deduction for donated items, you must file Form 1040 Schedule A and itemize your personal deductions. Most taxpayers claim the Standard Deduction instead. Also, even if you do file Schedule A, you won’t be able to write off the full ETV of donated items because their fair market value after you’ve reviewed and used the items might not add up to much.
Resell Vine Products on eBay:
Another way to offset your tax bill is to resell Vine items on eBay, Etsy, or similar platforms. Keep in mind that the IRS requires these payment platforms to report your income from online sales on Form 1099-K if your sales exceed $5,000 in any year. This reporting threshold will drop to $600 next year. Selling items at yard sales won’t generate a 1099-K form.
Will you owe taxes on resold Vine products? Maybe, but only if you resell then at a profit. If the ETV of a product is $400 and you sell it on eBay for $500, you will owe tax on the $400 ETV and the $100 profit at eBay. But if you sell it for $300, which is below the ETV, you’ll owe $400 on the ETV but nothing for the eBay sale. Consult a tax professional for guidance if you are unsure of how to report these transactions.
Best Approach to Vine:
In conclusion, the best way to approach Vine is to think of it as an opportunity to shop for a vast array of products at a substantial discount. If you need or want a product and don’t mind paying whatever tax you might owe on its ETV, then by all means order it and enjoy. But for higher-priced items, be choosey and limit your ETV to a tax bill that you can afford. This might mean staying in the Silver tier with its limitations, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you are an impulsive shopper. Enjoy Vine and the products you receive, but don’t dig yourself into a hole with tax debt that you can’t afford to pay.
​

From: https://forza.net/news/forza-motorsport-update-5-fixes
Here’s a preview of just a few of the fixes and improvements we intend to release with Forza Motorsport Update 5.
Hi everyone,
In January we shared with you all a status update on 3 key areas of feedback from the Forza Motorsport community that our team is working to improve – Car Progression, Forza Race Regulations and Drivatar AI.
For Car Progression, today we began collecting feedback from various sources on changes that will give players freedom to equip the parts they need regardless of car level. We have additional changes to the system in various states of design and testing with plans to implement these changes as soon as possible. For Forza Race Regulations, we have enabled Race Marshals and some content creators the ability to flag in-game incidents for review to help feed changes to the adjudication model that will improve the system. Lastly, we’re testing out fixes to the Drivatar AI to alleviate competitors bunching up around Turn 1 and causing the first few AI opponents to reach insurmountable leads. Beyond those key changes, we’re investigating other priority fixes for the AI that improve their overall driving behavior and reduce how aggressively they stick to the racing line. These are just a few examples of where we are prioritizing work in these areas, and we will be sharing more on each soon.
While we have 3 distinct teams here at Turn 10 working on these key improvements, we’re also actively developing fixes and improvements to other areas of the game. These will begin rolling out alongside Update 5 in February and will include a Skip Practice option to the Career mode pre-race menu to make it more discoverable, and a save point after finishing a Practice session so you can complete the Featured Race later. We’re also developing fixes and quality-of-life improvements to the Livery Editor based on the reports you’ve shared with us, including custom advanced zoom for applying decals, the ability to paint upgraded brake calipers, and a prompt to save your design when exiting the Livery Editor.
While this update is in active development, we wanted to share an earlier-than-usual look at some of the changes we’re targeting for this release.
Before we jump into the list of fixes, a note about the next Forza Monthly on Friday, January 26: while Forza Motorsport will have only a short segment due to the recent release of Update 4, we will use the opportunity to reveal the track coming in Update 5. Then in February’s livestream, we will show a more in-depth look at the track, alongside the accompanying career tour, cars and multiplayer events.
Here are the fixes we are targeting for Update 5 scheduled for release in February. Fixes are for all platforms unless otherwise specified. The bug number at the end of each bullet can be used to locate the issue in the Troubleshooting Hub.

Stability

• Fixed an issue where the game enters an unresponsive state when returning to Open Practice in Featured Multiplayer from a suspended state. [1612807]
• Fixed a crash that could occur after selecting “Skip Practice,” exiting the race and re-entering the event. [1657219]
• Fixed a crash that could occur when entering Forzavista. [1671290]
• Fixed a game crash that could occur when opening a race replay. [1672588]

Photo Mode and Replays

• Fixed an issue in Photo Mode on PC where non-16:9 resolutions include letterboxing in saved photos. [1671404]
• Fixed an issue when searching Replays or Photo Galleries by Track or Track Layout would return no results. [1604588]

Gameplay

• Skipping Completed Practice: Players are now presented with the option to Skip Practice in the Career mode pre-race menu. Furthermore, if the player previously completed Practice, the game creates a save point and gives the player additional options when returning to a series for replaying or skipping complete practice. [1635662]
• Fixed an issue in Private Multiplayer where someone driving the wrong way wasn’t correctly ghosted and could collide with other players. [1613125]
• Fixed an issue in Free Play where car model names are missing from the drivers list. [1660255]
• Additional information has been added for projected finishes in the Challenge the Grid screen. [1673345]
• Fixed an issue in Builders Cup where the series standing list is missing the names of AI drivers. [1668229]
• Fixed an issue in Featured Multiplayer where players could encounter an infinite loading screen when attempting to change their Fuel and Tire setup at Grid Preview. [1611726]
• Fixed an issue where Featured Multiplayer events at Hockenheim had only 3 laps instead of the intended lap count. [1691754]
• Fixed an issue in Builders Cup where the Skip Practice option loads the incorrect time-of-day for the track intro cinematic. [1674381]
• Fixed an issue in Free Play Quick Events where the "Number of Laps" returns to the track layout default when going to Event Setup in the pre-race menu. [1629341]
• Introduced a first-time pop up to the Buy Cars menu that explains the Featured Tab. [1635604]
• Fixed an issue in the Showroom where cars have a checkmark despite not being properly selected. [1602611]
• Fixed an issue where the "Do You Like This Design?" and "Do You Like This Tune?" post-race prompts are not appearing. [1604582]
• In the Fuel and Tires setup menu, added descriptions for non-race tires that explain their all-weather capability. [1607316]
• Fixed an issue in Featured Multiplayer Forza GT Spec Series where multiple classes are displayed when filtering by class. [1607337]
• Fixed an issue where Load/Save Event Setup options appear in Free Play Advanced while offline. [1446888]
• Time of Day and Weather will no longer always be randomized for the "Next Event" after a Free Play race. Your settings will be remembered. [1598884]
• Fixed an issue where audio sounds were played twice when pressing and releasing the “A” button on controller in the post-race podium finish sequence. [1555390]
• Fixed an issue in Free Play where the post-race information on the next race screen is inaccurate when weather is set to Variable. [1569880]
• Fixed an issue where the “Seeing Stars” blue and teal Driver Suits are mixed up in the Driver Customization menu. [1603140]
• Added an explanation to the Fuel and Tires menu that clarifies why tires cannot be changed while using a rental car. [1612374]
• Fixed an issue in Forzavista where the car model remains “exploded” after accepting a Multiplayer invite. [1646951]
• Adjusted the post-race rewards flow to ensure credits earned are displayed before a new Driver Suit unlock. [1651459]
• Fixed an issue in Builders Cup where players cannot use Rewind after AI Drivatars have completed the race. [1269413]
• Fixed an issue where Rewind is disabled for the first 30 seconds of a Free Play Solo race and in Builders Cup during Open Practice and the Featured Race. [1577801]

Livery Editor

• Players are now prompted to save their livery if they attempt to exit the Livery Editor without saving. [1437864]
• Fixed an issue where the "Color Fine Tune" button hint doesn't appear until player moves off then back on to a color option. [1441863]
• Fixed an issue when exiting a search in “Find Designs” exits the design section of the Livery Editor. [1490136]
• Fixed an issue where upgraded calipers are unable to be painted. [1555302]
• 2004 Maserati MC12: Fixed an issue where the manufacturer livery partially disappears when paint and decals are applied to the vehicle. [1557639]
• Fixed an issue where Vinyl Group sizes can become negative, leaving it difficult or even impossible to get them back to positive values. [1603790]
• Fixed an issue where shared Vinyls created and used by the same author on a Car Livery will lock sharing on the livery. [1608207]
• Fixed an issue on PC where zooming in with the mouse wheel scrolls the decal layers as well. [1612231]
• Added custom advanced zoom to the Livery Editor when applying decals to a car. [1621135]
• Fixed an issue where the Paint Wing option would be still accessible when the wing is removed from the car. [1556604]
• 2018 Acura #36 NSX GT3: Fixed an issue where the car’s shadow would “pop-in” at certain camera angles in the Paint Car menu. [1452096]
• Fixed an issue in Apply Decals > Vinyl Group where Curated Groups do not populate if selected too quickly. [1631003]
• Fixed an issue in Apply Decals > Vinyl Group where layers display incorrectly. [1536758]
• Fixed an issue in the decal selector where letters and symbols are incorrectly rearranged in the tab Lower Letters 5. [1570323]

PC

• Numerous under-the-hood improvements to reduce CPU spikes and better utilize the GPU, helping to improve framerate consistency while driving. [1536749, 1651623]
• Fixed numerous crash scenarios caused by multi-threaded rendering. [1624448, 1659051]
• Fixed being unable to use full screen mode when using a PC with an integrated GPU. [1603057]
• Fixed erratic framerate after reverting a video settings change. [1577163]
• Improved Mouse navigation by allowing RMB to behave like esc + B to navigate back through menus. [1486418]
• Fixed an issue on PC where players would see no performance boost when switching from a high-quality mode to low quality. [1648332]
• Fixed an issue where objects were missing from car reflections in Photo Mode and Forzavista [1670932]
• Added a check for GPU support of D3D12 Enhanced Barrier feature to application startup. Error code AP205 corresponds to detected lack of support. Client will attempt to find a device which has required features and will report a "failed to create graphics device" modal if none are found. [1684419]

Wheels

• Fixed an issue causing custom wheel input layouts to reset to their default settings after relaunching the game with both a controller and steering wheel connected. [1593360]
• Fixed an issue that caused the first shift LED light on the Logitech G923 to be illuminated when the car is idling. [1653804]
• Fixed an issue where the shift lights don’t blink on Logitech steering wheels when the car exceeds redline. [1653801]

Graphics

• Improved screen space reflections to handle quick dynamic resolution changes. [1670567]

AI

• Fixed issue where “Skip Lap” forces player off-track at Suzuka Full Circuit if they have adjusted their fuel levels on certain X class cars. [1681253]
• Fixed issue where AI controller takes player car off the track at VIR North when using “Skip Lap” or the start of a Test Drive session. [1682343]

Cars

• 2010 Lexus LFA: Updated inaccurate car audio. [1653741]
• 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R: Fixed an issue where the Rear Tire Width options are displayed in the wrong order after applying a widebody kit. [1664831]
• 2009 Ford Focus RS: Fixed an issue where the car’s audio sounds metallic and distorted. [1661365]

Tracks

• Hockenheim: Fixed an issue where race-day objects clip into the post-race cinematic when the player does not earn a podium finish. [1663889]
• Daytona: Fixed an issue where crew members can appear floating during the walk-the-grid cinematic in Featured Multiplayer. [1671191]
• Spa-Francorchamps: Fixed the typo on the “Welcome to Circuit de Spa” track sign. [1675335]

Accessibility

• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the AI Takeover Cue pitch-volume setting is not honored during pit entry if the player enters with Pit Assist enabled. [1639525]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the Deceleration Cue Pitch preview does not function properly in the Accessibility settings menu. [1639445]
• Fixed an issue where the UI Contrast setting text does not accurately describe the setting function. [1593309]
• Fixed an issue at Laguna Seca where certain P and X Class cars do not follow the driving line with throttle assist turned on. [1662584]
• Fixed an issue at Daytona where certain P and X Class cars do not follow the driving line with throttle assist turned on. [1662599]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator reads the acceleration or braking stat changes in kilometers per hour when miles per hour is displayed. [1613130]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator reads "no results for this leaderboard are available at this time" when entering the leaderboard in Rivals. [1657145]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where the Turn Navigation preview does not function properly in the Accessibility settings menu while on track. [1657217]
• Blind Driving Assists: Fixed an issue where audio cues are present during and after the Benchmark mode on PC where the player is unable to control the vehicle. [1607324]
• Added hyphenation for common compound word, front-wheel drive, to the subtitle when inspecting the 2018 Honda Civic Type R during the Builders Cup Intro Series. [1576107]
• Fixed an issue in the Quick Upgrade menu where the "Confirm" button on this screen always narrates the incorrect status initially. [1603873]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator does not readily read all the VIP event information in Rivals. [1625474]
• Fixed an issue where the Screen Narrator does not inform players that they are highlighting a new Series they have not viewed before in Career mode. [1581960]
• Fixed an issue in the Showroom where the "Owned" text appears much larger than its UI box while Menu Text size is set to largest. [1660344]

Monday, January 15, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH] Fabolous - Snooze Freestyle	link	+77	partyonpartypeople
[FRESH ALBUM] Hus KingPin x 9th Wonder - The Supergoat	link	+51	nedelll
[FRESH VIDEO] Icewear Vezzo - Pouring Wok	link	+25	DropWatcher
[FRESH ALBUM] xaviersobased - Keep It Goin Xav (Hosted By Dj Rennessy)	link	+25	stphnb

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH VIDEO] PLAYBOI CARTI - EVILJ0RDAN	link	+699	Kiwi-Initial
[FRESH] Brent Faiyaz - Pistachios	link	+74	RafiakaMacakaDirk
[FRESH VIDEO] SAUCE WALKA, DARINGER - IM HIM	link	+43	wheeling_and_dealing
[FRESH] Babyface Ray - Waymo Freestyle (Official Music Video)	link	+28	darkfar

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH VIDEO] Danny Brown - Y.B.P. (feat. Bruiser Wolf)	link	+402	MexicanMouthwash
[FRESH] LUPE FIASCO - DOMINICAN BARBER FREESTYLE	link	+93	baghel2294
[Fresh Video] Key Glock - Let's Go (Official Video)	link	+71	vvHezoTheGoat
[FRESH VIDEO] ZillaKami x SosMula - Sauna	link	+36	iblinkyoublink

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH ALBUM] Oddisee – Odd Sketches Vol. 1	link	+75	BlackMonk7
[FRESH ALBUM] Christ Dillinger, Acid Souljah & Shadow Wizard Money Gang - Based Negative Squad	link	+26	darkfar

Friday, January 19, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH ALBUM] Mick Jenkins - The Patience (Deluxe Edition)	link	+283	Kreizx
[FRESH] Joey Bada$$ - Passports & Suitcases (feat. KayCyy)	link	+258	God_Will_Rise_
[FRESH VIDEO] MIKE - Set the Mood	link	+118	futureezra
[FRESH] Conway the Machine - Give & Give (prod. Cool & Dre)	link	+115	God_Will_Rise_
[FRESH] Skepta - Jangrova (feat. Idris Elba, Tribal Mark, ODUMODBLVCK	link	+94	MelodicFootball9357
[FRESH ALBUM] Lil Dicky - Penith (The DAVE Soundtrack)	link	+72	nuttageyo
[FRESH] Che Noir, Evidence, and Your Old Droog - Junior High	link	+64	faultlessjoint
[FRESH VIDEO] Conway The Machine & Cool & Dre - Give & Give | Mutty	link	+53	pennstylez
[FRESH] Rob49 & Lil Wayne - Wassam Baby	link	+47	JoJoReignsSupreme
[FRESH] Madlib and Karriem Riggins - "Massamba Afundance"	link	+41	Longjumping-Elk2478
[FRESH] THOTTWAT - ENVY (Official Video)	link	+35	darkfar
[Fresh] Kota the Friend - YUMA	link	+33	Garduna
[FRESH VIDEO] Turbo x Gunna “Bachelor” Official Music Video	link	+33	Skyoff_Lyfe
[FRESH ALBUM] Lil Dicky - Penith (The DAVE Soundtrack)	link	+25	skryb

Saturday, January 20, 2024

Post	Link	Score	User
[FRESH VIDEO] Kendrick Lamar - The Button (for Chanel Haute-Couture Show)	link	+242	realwords
[FRESH VIDEO] Mick Jenkins - ROY G. BIV	link	+95	Hu3yKnewTHen
[FRESH ALBUM] Gordy (ex Avalanches member) - Double Stack iMac	link	+41	adubyt

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Earth has a terminal fever and there is no cure. A raft of reports signals that we will not escape this doomspiral.
Last Week in Collapse: October 22-28, 2023
This is Last Week in Collapse, a weekly newsletter bringing together some of the most important, timely, useful, depressing, ironic, astonishing, or otherwise must-see moments in Collapse.
This is the 96th newsletter, and at 3,300+ words, the longest one yet. You can find the October 15-21 edition here if you missed it last week.
It has come to my attention that there is someone else in the Collapse community who has basically been plagiarizing this newsletter, rewording a few sentences, and passing off this content as his own monthly newsletter on another platform, for money. It is obviously a lazy rebrand of Last Week in Collapse. I am choosing to leave this writer anonymous at this point. I have no problem with people sharing this newsletter—and I encourage all dissemination of Collapse news—but please don’t plagiarize my efforts here. You can just link to my Reddit post and give your readers free access, instead of paywalling my work for your profit. Notwithstanding another writer who had permission to temporarily syndicate LWIC, this newsletter is only posted in two places: Collapse, and on my Substack, for those who want an email version sent to their inbox every Sunday. Enough said on this point, for now.
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As Israel prepares its ground invasion of Gaza, fears grow that Hezbollah could bring Lebanon and Iran into this growing War. The results would be terrible for everyone. The United States would certainly join a conflict if it includes Iran. Iran produces about ⅛ of the Middle East’s total oil extraction (25% of Saudi’s production), which funds 70% of the government. Yet Israel is interfering with GPS signals near Lebanon already, preparatory measures for an expected attack. Hezbollah militants may not be able to restrain themselves.
Israeli bombings continued in Gaza all week long. Some strikes were made in Syria by Israel, and by the U.S.. The current death toll for Palestinians is over 7,000 with no end in sight. The EU is calling for a stop to the fighting so more aid can come into Gaza, which has also been starved of electricity. But for Israel, their ground incursion is just beginning. Within 3 weeks, this War left more dead than 6 months of War in Sudan. The UN is passing resolutions but these are not doing much to stop the fighting.
The War in Sudan has displaced 5.6M people so far, one of the widest humanitarian disasters of 2023. However, both sides are meeting in Jeddah to arrange an agreeable settlement of the War. Some analysts think it’s all about money.
Almost two months after a pair of earthquakes struck Morocco, thousands of survivors are still not getting any aid. In a real Collapse, nobody is coming to save you. Poverty across Africa is forcing girls to drop out of school to work and become mothers.
A think tank released a 125-page report, the “Women, Peace and Security Index” for 2023. Denmark placed #1, Afghanistan last.
Russia struck a post office in Kharkiv, killing 6 and injuring 16 more. Russian losses during last week’s Avdiivka offensive have been massive, with thousands of soldiers reportedly dead in one week, all to hold the ruins of a Donetsk city (pre-War pop: 30,000). U.S. intelligence says Russians are shooting their own troops if they fall back. War.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) released a mid-year report indicating there were about 114M forcibly displaced people worldwide at the end of September, about half of whom were internally displaced, half refugees. Better add another 2M from Gaza to the count.
China replaced its defence minister and its foreign minister last week. Mental illness is being blamed for a vicious mass shooting in Maine that killed 18 and wounded many others.
Fighting flared up for the first time in months in eastern DRC, where M23 militants seized the town Kitshanga, and are fighting in another nearby area. An ISIS affiliate active in the region also reportedly massacred 26 in the eastern DRC. The Congolese President is canceling the UN mission because they were ineffective, and ordered them out by year’s end. M23 fighters also killed a Kenyan soldier, the first Kenyan slain in the force this year. A different UN mission is also leaving Mali amid worsening political & security problems.
Drug and corruption-related shootings across Mexico killed 22+ people in one day, about half of whom were police. In one attack, in Guerrero state, a government convoy was ambushed, killing 11 police and a security official.
Italy’s PM is struggling to keep her promise to manage migration influxes. Meanwhile, one of the Spanish Canary Islands “is becoming Lampedusa” due to large numbers of arriving migrants. Pakistan is giving its last warning to illegal immigrants within its borders, mostly several hundred thousand Afghans. Deportations are set to begin on November 1.
Tensions continue growing between Taiwan and China. The strategic ambiguity of the situation has left all actors operating in uncertainty over Taiwan’s future.
The United States is working on a new atomic Bomb, and it’s not exactly clear why. Russia simulated a nuclear strike last week in a preparedness drill. The Kremlin is less alarmed than the West that China is building up its nuclear capabilities with the launching of a nuclear-capable submarine and the construction of hundreds more warheads by 2030.
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The IEA (International Energy Agency) has released a 355-page report about the World Energy outlook for 2023. The prognosis is mixed: expecting fossil fuels to peak before 2030, celebrating the growth of China’s renewable energy sector, yet the global surface temperature continues to climb. The full report has 100+ great graphs.

”Fossil fuel prices are down from their 2022 peaks, but markets are tense and volatile…the global average surface temperature is already around 1.2 °C above pre-industrial levels, prompting heatwaves and other extreme weather events, and greenhouse gas emissions have not yet peaked. The energy sector is also the primary cause of the polluted air that more than 90% of the world’s population is forced to breathe, linked to more than 6 million premature deaths a year…” -selections from the executive summary

In order for the EU to meet its emissions targets, it will have to cut its pollution rate by more than 3x, according to a 32-page report released on Tuesday. It’s almost time to move the benchmarks and start again.
Another report out of Brussels, this one 98-pages long, paints a dim picture of sustainability. Five EU countries are planning not to meet the binding targets agreed upon. The report includes country-specific assessments if you want to explore specific states’ progress—or lack thereof.
Climate scientists discovered undersea currents below the Antarctic ice shelf that better explain overturning circulation patterns around crevasses. The full study explains it better than I can. Another study claims that Antarctic meltwater is flowing out from beneath the ice sheets faster than expected, contributing to ice loss feedback loops. Another study indicated that Arctic cyclones are becoming stronger and longer-lasting. Yet another study concludes that rapid Antarctic ice melting is inevitable, and its impacts on sea level will not go unnoticed. Arctic permafrost may unleash toxins when it melts.
The annual report “State of the Climate 2023” came out last week, and this one is only 10 pages. Climate scientists are freaking out over the feedback loops, the crossed thresholds, the tipped points. June-August was the hottest period in recorded human history, and by mid-September earth experienced 38 days with an average temperature above 1.5 °C. And I don’t even want to talk about 45M acres burned in Canada this year—so far. That’s an area larger than the size of Sulawesi, Indonesia’s fourth-largest island, or more than twice the size of the Ireland island.

”Life on planet Earth is under siege. We are now in an uncharted territory. For several decades, scientists have consistently warned of a future marked by extreme climatic conditions because of escalating global temperatures caused by ongoing human activities that release harmful greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Unfortunately, time is up. We are seeing the manifestation of those predictions as an alarming and unprecedented succession of climate records are broken, causing profoundly distressing scenes of suffering to unfold. We are entering an unfamiliar domain regarding our climate crisis, a situation no one has ever witnessed firsthand in the history of humanity.”

The Oil company Chevron is buying Hess Oil for $53B USD, in a stock deal that positions Chevron as one of the world’s top energy firms. Just a couple weeks ago, Exxon bought another oil company for almost $60B USD.
Hurricane Otis struck Mexico, bringing 165 mph (270km/ph) winds. It intensified to 80 mph winds (128kph) within 12 hours and grew to a Category 5 storm in less than 24 hours, making it the fastest-growing storm ever. The storm killed at least 27 people and devastated the infrastructure of Acapulco (pop: 1M).
In Bangladesh, Cyclone Hamoon killed 3 and sent hundreds of thousands to shelters. Category 5 Cyclone Lola slammed Vanuatu. Scientists are exploring other factors, such as thunderstorms, for why storms can intensify so quickly.
Iran claims that no water is coming from Afghanistan’s side of the Helmand River, and it’s been like this for a month. The Taliban are reportedly blocking river water from flowing down to Iran amid a fierce drought. Iran is also facing drought and wildfires on its border with Iraq.
Drought is also being felt in inner Brazil, where river levels have dropped concerningly, revealing old rock carvings. The Rio Grande, shared by Mexico and the United States, is projected to remain at crisis levels for the near future. Saguaro cacti are dying from heat in the Sonora Desert.
India is preparing for its largest geoengineering experiment ever: building a vast, 15,000+ km network of canals and reservoirs, in order to move water from wet areas to drier agricultural regions. By redirecting large amounts of water, moisture levels will change, with downstream impacts on temperature, evapotranspiration, cloud formation, and rainfall.
Climate change impacts wildlife differently depending on what sex they are. In some species, the temperature determines what sex a baby animal will be. Volcano eruptions are being examined to determine their historical and future impact on El Niño.
The 154-page Forest Declaration for 2023 was released, and it confirms what we already know: efforts to stop deforestation by 2030 are impossible (unless we run out of forests by then), forest emissions are growing, biodiversity is dying, rainfall is decreasing.
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A gas shortage in Ghana resulted in a temporary nationwide blackout. Drought (worsened by El Niño) is forcing Ecuador to cut electricity for a few hours every day because hydropower plants aren’t producing as much as expected. Cuts are expected to last into December. Siemens Energy is getting a bailout from the German government because of problems in its wind power output. Vietnam is worried about blackouts in 2024.
The Ukraine War has impacted global food security, in conjunction with climate change and worsening global markets. Much of the world is starting to turn towards millet, a family of grains that grows better under dry conditions. Expect to hear more about this bland food and its health benefits as we enter a more unstable food future. Have you eaten millet this year?
Avian flu was found in Israel and Taiwan this month. Bird flu has also, for the first time, been detected in Antarctic seabirds. Fallout grows from South Africa’s bird flu problems. 522 seals and sea lions died off from avian flu in Brazil last week; Brazil is the world’s largest chicken exporter. Cases of H5N1 are also growing in Romania & Bulgaria.
“Antimicrobial resistance” (AMR) is responsible for about 5M human deaths per year—yet the dangers of superbugs and almost-invincible bacteria are still flying under the radar. Scientists want to do a rebrand to another term that will catch the public’s attention more.
It has been more than one year since polio resurfaced in New York state. In the last 8 months, however, no new traces of polio were detected in the state. Has this particular threat vanished for good—or is it just lying dormant somewhere?
Health experts believe the amino acid taurine may improve Long COVID outcomes and help predict the severity of Long COVID. A different study concluded that Long COVID tends to be worse among the already sick. Scientists are also discovering the ability of some COVID strains to infect the central nervous system and axons. Only 7% of American adults have received the COVID booster.
Food scientists have discovered a protein that helps to manage nutrients inside plant roots. This may enable farmers to grow crops in the future using less water and fertilizer.
The world’s most popular banana, the Cavendish, is being threatened by a worldwide fungal epidemic. “Panama Disease” has been found in South America, where many of our bananas are grown. The Cavendish replaced the Gros Michel banana in the 1950s after a plague (to which the Cavendish was relatively unaffected) wiped out the Gros Michel.
A bizarre “superfog” caused from marsh fires and fog was blamed for a 158-vehicle pileup on the highway in Louisiana. At least 7 are dead. Low visibility ahead.
Earth has had over 7 months of above average sea surface temperatures without interruption. Heat wave around Mongolia. New monthly record for Odesa. Heat wave in Australia and an underwater heat wave in New Zealand. A hailstorm killed 4 in South Africa.
The cost of living is challenging Canadian homeowners. The Balkans may face a future fuel shortage now that a Bulgarian refinery is shutting down. The Japanese Yen continues sliding. An oil boss was put in charge of COP28. Nothing to see here, move along.
The UK is concerned about AI driving societal unrest and non-state actors unleashing bioweapons. Britain is also facing a housing crash and oncoming recession.
Rising temperatures fuel fears of more malaria in Türkiye. Agriculture in Morocco, in Slovenia, and elsewhere have been damaged by extreme weather. 2024 is expected to be even worse.
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Select comments/threads from the subreddit last week suggest:
-Acapulco is finished…and nobody seems to be talking about it. This post, and some all-star comments, commiserate with the people of Acapulco and the muted response to Hurricane Otis.
-There are many ways to cope with Collapse, judging by the responses to a support thread. Philosophy, drugs, and prepping seem to be the most popular treatments.
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