Dep. Legal MA-422-2006 - ISSN 2953-42536
Axarquia I No. 2145 I 13 - 19 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Malaga feria begins
Shocking pink
Surprise visitor comes to Almuñecar beach Credit: Roberto Sorin - Shutterstock
A SPECTACULAR CELEBRATION OF LOCAL CULTURE
MALAGA opens its heart for the most special time of the year as the Feria de Malaga kicks off. Celebrated by residents from the province as the biggest party all year, this grand gathering represents a deeply felt expression of local culture, passion and heritage. Traditional streets will overflow with joyful music, flamenco rhythms, decorated horse carriages and colourful dresses, creating memories that remain forever. Festivities commence on Friday, August 14, at 10 to midnight with an extraordinary spectacle featuring 440 illuminated drones above Dique de Levante and San Andres. Precisely at midnight, one ton of gunpowder will ignite during a 20-minute pyromusical show over the port. Sky watchers can expect 5,700 pyrotechnic
Let the celebrations begin.
effects synchronised with music, delivering a thrilling start to eight glorious days of non-stop fun. Residents from across Axarquia and many expatriates living throughout the region are heading to the city. Joining this annual fiesta gives international residents a genuine connection
to authentic Andalucian traditions. Daytime dancing in Historic Centre plazas leads into lively evening entertainment at Real del Cortijo de Torres, where rides, tasty food and concerts welcome every visitor. Travelling into the city centre requires advance planning because of traffic
changes. Using public transport like regional buses or trains provides an easy journey directly to the main venues. Everyone can embrace the warm spirit of Malaga and celebrate a week defined by deep heritage, pride, joy, friendship and unforgettable community togetherness across the province.
Nerja goes white NERJA is preparing to turn El Salon beach into a sea of white and elegance on Friday, August 14, when the popular Fiesta Blanca returns for another magical night beside the Mediterranean. Everyone can expect a beautiful spectacle as crowds dressed in white gather by the water, creating a striking Ibiza-style scene against Nerja’s coastline. The event is especially beautiful after sunset, when music, lights and the setting create an un-
Credit: Auto Nerja
El Salon beach set for spectacular summer night
Town dresses in white.
forgettable summer atmosphere with food, live music and a feel of true community. Practical details are confirmed. Fiesta Blanca 2026 will take place at El Salon beach on August 14 after dark. The Ayuntamiento has also confirmed plans for two bars, with refreshments for partygoers. Full entertainment details and timings have yet to be announced officially, so visitors should check the Nerja Town Hall website for updates before heading down.
BEACHGOERS on Cotobro beach in Almuñecar received an unexpected surprise one Saturday in July around 11am when a rare pink visitor landed on the shoreline. A greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) touched down near the water, leading astonished onlookers to pause and film the creature before it took off a few minutes later. Local resident Álvaro Martín captured the moment on video, noting that everyone stopped to watch the bird. Footage shared on social media rapidly spread among residents who missed the brief spectacle. Greater flamingos are renowned for their long legs, curved bills, and vivid pink plumage. These birds typically favour shallow saline lagoons and coastal wetlands over open Mediterranean beaches. In Granada province, flamingos are usually seen only as passing visitors, making a direct landing on Cotobro beach particularly unusual. Spain’s main flamingo populations reside further inland. The Fuente de Piedra lagoon near Antequera hosts the largest breeding colony in Spain, whilst Doñana National Park also supports many. Stray birds rarely remain long on the Costa Tropical. Credit: @alvaromrtn__ Inst
Flamingo pays a visit to Almuñecar.
LOCAL NEWS
13 - 19 August 2026
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Four nights of Latin flavour Credit:RinconTH/FB
Red superyacht Akula turns heads in La Herradura.
Eye-catching superyacht A STRIKING red solar-powered superyacht resembling an ocean research vessel has caught the eye of holidaymakers in La Herradura. The 59-metre Akula arrived in the bay on Monday, August 10, after sailing from Malaga port. Built by Italian shipyard Rossinavi and launched in 2023, the expedition yacht was designed for owners seeking to travel beyond conventional cruising grounds. With a steel hull, aluminium superstructure, and Ice Class rating, the
vessel can navigate polar waters. Diesel-electric engines give Akula a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles, with help from its photovoltaic panels. Industry estimates put the construction cost at around $95 million. Despite its rugged exterior, the vessel offers high-end luxury designed by FM Architettura. Akula accommodates up to 10 guests in five suites, supported by a crew of 13. On-board facilities include a gym, sauna, and swimming pool. The ship also
DRIVERS travelling along Spain’s A-7 motorway near Malaga encountered an unusual obstruction on Sunday, August 9, when a boat detached from its trailer and landed directly in the middle of the carriageway. The incident occurred at approximately 1pm near El Palo, as the vessel was being towed in the direction of Almeria. Accor-
carries specialised equipment for research, including a mini-submarine, laboratory, and workshop. Large private vessels regularly visit La Herradura Bay during summer, but Akula presents an unusual sight. Recent local marine activity has included police enforcement against illegal jet skis in the nearby Maro-Cerro Gordo reserve. For holidaymakers, however, this bright red vessel offers a striking spectacle: an icebreaker style ship resting in warm Mediterranean waters.
RINCON DE LA VICTORIA will host the second edition of its Gastrolatino Festival from Thursday, August 13, to Sunday, August 16, bringing food, music and culture to Plaza Al-Andalus for four evenings. Organised by the town’s Department of Culture, Fairs and Festivals, the free event offers a taste of Latin America to both residents and holidaymakers. Each day begins at 6.30pm with ambient music and children’s entertainment, before live musical acts and animation shows take over from 8pm onwards. Every evening ends with a tribute concert, with festivities closing at midnight on Sunday, August 16, following a performance dedicated to Colombian star Carlos Vives. Visitors can sample Colombian are-
Bizarre traffic jam
ding to local reports, the driver of the towing vehicle braked sharply near a speed camera, causing the trailer attachment to fail and releasing the vessel onto the busy road. Once on the tarmac, the boat was struck by multiple passing
vehicles. At least four cars were involved in the subsequent crashes. The towing vehicle was also damaged during the collision, suffering a smashed windscreen. Amazingly, nobody was injured despite the heavy boat landing
Latin gastronomy festival.
pas, Chilean sandwiches and Argentinian cuts of meat, alongside artisan ice cream and buñuelos for those with a sweet tooth. A dedicated tropical cocktail area and food truck zone will also feature, giving guests plenty of reasons to stay well into the night. Dance fans will not be short of options either, with salsa, bachata, merengue and vallenato rhythms filling the square across all four days. Local officials say the event is designed to appeal to all ages while boosting trade for nearby businesses. Entry is free throughout, with organisers encouraging visitors to drop by Plaza Al-Andalus and sample everything the festival has to offer.
squarely in the path of fast-moving traffic. Guardia Civil traffic officers, emergency services, and maintenance crews were dispatched to the scene. Emergency workers closed one lane of the motorway
to safely clear the wreckage and remove the affected cars. The lane closure caused severe congestion, leading to a two-kilometre traffic queue on the approach to Malaga. While the busy coastal route frequently experiences heavy summer congestion, motorists caught in the tailback were treated to a truly bizarre sight.
NEWS
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13 - 19 August 2026
Inheritance tax change
Calendar clash Bank holiday day claims
The impact will depend on individual circumstances.
ries receive. Moving permanently to Spain does not automatically remove someone from UK inheritance tax rules. The UK considers factors including long-term tax residency, meaning some British expatriates may still have financial links to Britain despite living abroad for years. Chris Ball, CEO and an expatriate financial planning specialist, warned that British residents in Spain should review their situation before the new rules take effect. The impact will depend on indivi-
dual circumstances, including how long someone lived in the UK, when they moved abroad, the size of their pension and other assets they hold. Some pension holders may consider withdrawing funds or gifting money before 2027, but experts warn against making decisions without professional advice due to the complex tax rules between Spain and the UK. For many expatriate families, the issue is not retirement income, but what happens to decades of savings left behind.
Credit: daily_creativity/shutterstock
Photo credit: Iryna Dzvonkovska/Shutterstock
SHIFTING RULES ACROSS BORDERS
THOUSANDS of British nationals living in Spain could face unexpected inheritance tax consequences after a major UK pension rule change comes into force in 2027. From April 6 next year, certain UKheld pensions will be brought into the inheritance tax system, meaning savings that many retirees believed could pass to loved ones outside the tax rules may be assessed differently after their death. The change does not affect the value of pensions during a person’s lifetime, but it could alter how much beneficia-
Check specific workplace agreements.
WORKERS in Spain could have a stronger claim to an extra day off when Assumption Day falls on a Saturday this year. Observed on Saturday, August 15, Assumption Day is a national public holiday across Spain. Because many employees already have Saturdays off, questions have been raised about whether they should lose the benefit of the holiday when it coincides with their normal weekly rest day. Fresh attention has followed a recent National Court ruling linked to a dispute in the customer service sector. Judges found that a public holiday should not automatically be absorbed into a worker’s regular rest period. Under that interpretation, some employees may be entitled to a compensatory day off instead. Workers whose schedules already include Saturdays as a non-working day are among those most likely to be affected. Although the case relates to a specific sector, employment specialists believe its reasoning could influence disputes in other industries where collective agreements contain similar provisions. Any entitlement will depend on the terms of individual agreements and workplace arrangements, meaning an additional day off is not guaranteed for everyone. Guidance reported by El País suggests that replacement leave should generally be taken within 14 calendar days of the holiday, although exceptions may apply in cases such as illness or authorised absence. Credit: Dragon Images - Shutterstock
Community access BORDERS, BRICKS, AND BOUNDARIES PROPERTY owners in Spain face severe financial and legal penalties if they refuse access to maintenance workers conducting repairs on shared infrastructure. Under Article 9.1 of Spain’s Horizontal Property Law, known as Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, property owners must permit entry to their homes or gardens for essential work on communal services. This obligation applies to flats, detached houses, and urbanisations where shared utilities, such as water pipes or drainage networks, cross private land. Recent court decisions demonstrate that judges have little patience for uncooperative residents. In Orihuela we recently heard from a Euro Weekly reader about an owner who refused entry to a plumber after bougainvillaea roots damaged
shared pipes beneath his garden, causing a neighbour’s water bills to balloon. Courts eventually forced access, leaving the stubborn owner liable for legal costs, compensation, and his own garden repairs. In another case, an elderly resident attempted to block workers from lifting a shower tray to fix a communal leak. The court ruled that lacking minor details does not grant the right to delay critical repairs. While owners can request details regarding work schedules and disruption, they cannot legally block access once necessity is proven. Refusing entry does not protect the home. Instead, it converts routine maintenance into a costly legal dispute. Early cooperation remains the best way to avoid heavy court fees and property damage.
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What if the leak is from your house in Spain?
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LOCAL NEWS
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Rincon lad wins hearts
RUBEN ROLDAN BUSTOS, a 23-year-old athlete from Rincon de la Victoria, has reached the live broadcasts of America’s Got Talent after receiving Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer for a jaw-dropping parkour routine. Performing without his prosthetic leg, Bustos captured the judges’ attention with his movement and athletic skill. He lost his left leg in a tractor accident at nine years old, but refused to let the incident define his future. Instead, he dedicated himself to sport and mastered adaptive parkour. Years of intense training transformed him into an acclaimed competitor. Guinness World Records lists three achievements set by Bustos in Almeria in November 2024, including a 1.36-metre running
Credit: AGT
13 - 19 August 2026
Ruben wins golden buzzer from Cowell.
jump onto an elevated platform and a 1.30-metre vertical leap from a running start. This success on American television follows previous routines on Spain’s Got Talent and Germany’s Das Supertalent, introducing his athletic journey to a glo-
bal television audience. For readers across the south coast, watching a local resident convert personal adversity into international athletic achievement provides genuine encouragement. His story reflects a broader pattern across southern Spain, where
world-class performers routinely develop their skills before gaining global recognition. Ultimately, his achievement demonstrates that remarkable dedication and skill can originate anywhere, including the small towns of Malaga Province.
Community spirit MUSIC, dancing and community spirit will come to Velez-Malaga when the II Verbena de la Patrona (Patron Saint Festival) returns on Saturday, August 15, at the Explanada del Cerro. Organised by the local religious brotherhood, the annual event combines entertainment, fundraising and traditional celebrations honouring the town’s patron saint. Festivities begin at 8.30pm and continue well into the early hours. Dance performances open the programme, with the Elsa Guerra Dance Academy taking to the stage at 8.30pm, followed by the Cristina Gallardo Dance Academy at 9.30pm. Live music starts at 10.30pm with singer Benito Garcia, while Spanish group Ñ Clan will headline from midnight. DJ Palomares will keep the music going throughout the evening.
Credit:EGuerraDance/FB
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Elsa Guerra Dance School will dance for the crowds.
Visitors can also enjoy food and drinks at affordable prices, while the popular ‘Rasca y Gana’ scratch-and-win raffle will offer hundreds of prizes donated by local businesses. More than 50 companies, shops and sponsors have supported this year’s event, helping organisers stage the second edition of the fes-
tival and demonstrating strong backing from the local business community. Held on one of Spain’s most important religious feast days, the celebration offers residents and visitors a chance to enjoy a festive summer evening while supporting local traditions and the brotherhood behind the event.
LOCAL NEWS
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Council’s luxury assets NERJA Town Hall is preparing to sell a luxury council flat near the Balcon de Europa, with the proceeds intended to fund future investments and projects across Nerja and Maro. Councillors approved the initial stage of the sale following the relocation of local public services - including job placement and training programmes, from the first-floor property to the town’s new Training and Employment Centre, which opened last October. Council officials confirmed that the apartment is no longer required for municipal operations, allowing the lucrative real estate to be sold as a public asset. Although valuation figures, sale dates, and specific investment plans have not yet been announced, the council expects the prime property
Credit: Google
Exclusive flat for sale by Nerja council.
to fetch a pretty penny. The decision mirrors broader actions taken by other Spanish public authorities, where local councils are converting disused real estate into capital for pressing community needs. In Madrid, regional authorities are selling a 485-square-metre penthouse in Chamberi for €6.69 million after purchasing it for €6.3 million
to serve as temporary offices. A second property on Gran Via has also been listed for sale, with proceeds designated to assist recovery efforts following regional forest fires. Although Nerja’s sale is smaller in scale, the underlying rationale remains identical: turning redundant public assets into crucial funding for future priorities.
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Trees strip off STREET trees across Axarquia and the Costa Tropical appear drastically stripped of their branches in August and September, leaving little shade during the hottest months. Despite local complaints about the bare trunks, the heavy pruning follows a deliberate schedule driven by rapid summer growth and public safety concerns. Bright sunshine combined with abundant groundwater causes trees to grow at their fastest rate of the year. Council teams carry out hard cut-backs to ensure new branches form correctly and to prevent heavy limbs from snapping onto pavements or vehicles. Fast regrowth means foliage returns before the autumn rains arrive. Late trimming in nearby areas has previously resulted in broken branches and reduced flowering on species such as jacarandas. In Rincon de la Victoria, palm tree maintenance
Credit Ayto
Palm tree pruning in Rincon.
has reached the two-thirds mark. Teams began work along the seafront promenades before moving to Avenida de la Candelaria and La Cala del Moral. Two four-person crews, equipped with cherry pickers and elevated platforms, clean the trunks and remove summer fruit clusters to keep pavements and dining
terraces clear. All cuttings are transported to an authorised site for disposal. Following municipal guidelines, workers preserve the structural health of the palms to ensure safety for residents and visitors. Regular maintenance will continue year-round once this main trimming phase concludes.
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LOCAL NEWS
Fake clampdown Credit: PL Nerja FB NERJA Local Police have seized more than 1,000 counterfeit items during targeted operations against unlicensed street sellers across the coastal town over recent weeks. Officers targeted illegal street hawkers in busy public spots to remove fake merchandise. During the inspections, teams confiscated rouPolice haul of fake goods. ghly 800 fake football shirts and sports kits. that bootleg items deprive shoppers of In addition to sports gear, law enforcement seized over 100 consumer rights while creating unfair counterfeit designer handbags, as well competition for honest traders who as fake trainers, watches, beach sa- pay rent and taxes. “Our goal is to guarantee peaceful rongs, and baseball caps. None of the confiscated goods possessed distribu- coexistence, safety, and a level playing tion authorisation, consumer safety field for traders who carry out their guarantees, or health checks required business legally in our town,” Arce explained. Safety Delegation officials under Spanish law. Francisco Arce, Nerja’s Councillor praised officers for their daily patrols. Shoppers can expect stricter checks for Safety and Transport, confirmed that the sweeps form part of an on- in coming weeks as the town council going surveillance effort to eliminate increases police presence across public illicit street trading. Unlicensed tra- areas. Visitors and residents are urged ding causes heavy financial damage to buy directly from official retail outto legitimate brick-and-mortar shops lets, which supports local businesses in Nerja. Local authorities stressed across Spain.
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Using water well
Credit;: Salvador Calero - Shutterstock
Fountain of the 100 pipes in Villanueva de Trabuco, Axarquia.
VILLANUEVA DEL TRABUCO has introduced a local decree to combat mounting water shortages after local consumption surpassed inflow to its storage tanks. Mayor Juan Alejandro Pascual Martín signed the order, declaring water a scarce resource. Under the new measures, residents are forbidden from using the public mains network to water private or public gardens and paths. Filling private swimming pools from the public supply is banned, as is washing vehicles outside of specialist commercial car-wash businesses. Filling private water storage tanks from the public grid is also prohibited, except for community services. These restrictions build upon local water regulations established on Thursday, November 4, 2004. Violating the rules or
FORTUNE smiled on a lottery player in Velez-Malaga after Friday’s EuroMillions draw delivered a second-category prize worth €112,479. Staff at the Virgen de Lourdes lottery shop on Calle Cristo confirmed the winning ticket matched five main numbers plus one
misusing the supply is classed as a very serious offence, carrying fines of up to €3,000. Town hall staff have encouraged residents to report any wasteful behaviour to aid enforcement. No end date has been specified, and the restrictions will remain indefinitely. Although regional reservoirs in Andalucia remain above three-quarters capacity following heavy winter rainfall, localized heatwaves have driven up daily demand. Small inland communities in Malaga province, including the Antequera comarca, continue to suffer supply imbalances due to high evaporation rates and limited network flow. Local authorities advise residents to monitor official updates, utilize grey water for plants, and report leaks to protect shared reserves.
Lucky Velez Lucky Star. The winning numbers were 26, 29, 35, 38 and 47, with stars 1 and 2. A single first-category ticket bought in Belgium scooped the main jackpot of
€111,058,174. Spain produced two second-category winners in total, with the second ticket sold in Oropesa del Mar in Castellon. The payout continues a run of good fortune for Malaga province. Earlier in the week, an El Millon code worth €1 million was sold at a lottery shop in Estacion de Cartama. In Friday’s draw, the El Millon prize went to a ticket holder in Teia, Barcelona. Second-category prizes of this size remain relatively rare and create great excitement in smaller towns. The central shop on Calle Cristo has now joined the short list of local outlets to hand out six-figure EuroMillions payouts this summer. For the next draw, there will be a guaranteed jackpot of €17 million. Official results are published by Loterias y Apuestas del Estado. Ticket holders from Friday have three months to claim their winnings.
FEATURE/LOCAL NEWS
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13 - 19 August 2026
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Set sail for unforgettable adventures on the Costa Tropical this summer THERE is something magical about seeing southern Spain from the sea. Crystal clear waters, hidden coves, dramatic cliffs and the chance to spot dolphins make every trip a memorable experience, and Sailnplay has been helping visitors discover this spectacular coastline for more than 18 years. Departing from the beautiful Marina del Este in La Herradura, the company’s luxury Optimist of London II catamaran is the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing day on the Mediterranean. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, planning a family outing, catching up with friends or simply escaping the crowds, the spacious catamaran offers the ideal mix of comfort, fun and breathtaking scenery. The cruises include an experienced skipper and crew, delicious food, complimentary drinks and plenty of opportunities to swim, paddleboard or simply stretch out on deck and soak up the sunshine. If you are lucky, you may
even be joined by playful dolphins, regular visitors to this stunning stretch of coastline.
Looking for something a little different? Sailnplay also offers elegant cruises aboard the luxury motor ya-
cht Charlie Ruggle, including relaxing daytime adventures and romantic sunset cava cruises that are perfect for couples. For those wanting even more freedom, there is a range of luxury day boats with professional skippers, picnic hampers and watersports equipment, making them ideal for families, groups and special celebrations. One of the reasons guests return year after year is the all inclusive approach. Food, drinks, professional crew and fuel are included on the catamaran and motor yacht, so there are no hidden surprises, just a carefree day on the water. Sailnplay also welcomes complete beginners, so no sailing experience is needed. If you fancy taking the helm under the skipper’s guidance, you are even encouraged to have a go. Whether you are visiting the Costa Tropical or already call Spain home, a day at sea with Sailnplay is an experience you will remember long after your holiday ends.
Port splash
Credit: AYTO
For bookings and enquiries, contact Sailnplay on +34 669 118 816, email info@sailnplay.com, or visit www.sailnplay.com. The office is located at Puerto Deportivo Punta de la Mona, Marina del Este, La Herradura, with cruises operating throughout the year.
Motril Port’s annual swimming race.
HUNDREDS of competitors will dive into Motril port on Saturday, August 15, for the 85th Travesia a Nado Puerto de Motril, one of Spain’s oldest open-water swimming events. Organised by the swimming section of the Real Club Nautico de Motril, the classic competition features two distinct courses set entirely within the harbour basin. The setup allows spectators to watch the action from close quarters along the waterside. The main 1,800-metre
race for adult competitors gets underway at 10am. A shorter 500-metre course begins at 11am, catering to alevin and junior participants. While experienced swimmers will compete for top positions on the longer course, the event also invites locals looking to participate in a long-standing coastal tradition. The junior race offers families the chance to support younger competitors in organised racing. Swimmers can register
online via Cruzando La Meta, or in person at the Real Club Nautico de Motril before 9.30am on the morning of the event. With consecutive race starts scheduled across the morning, the historic sporting event promises an engaging spectacle for visitors gathered at the port. The 85th Travesia a Nado Puerto de Motril takes place on Saturday, August 15, with the primary race starting with a splash at 10am followed by the 500-metre challenge at 11am.
13 - 19 August 2026
SPANISH NEWS
Caught red handed Photo credit: neme_jimenez/shutterstock
Ruined holidays MORE than 400 customers are seeking answers after claiming a travel agency in L’Escala, Girona, failed to provide holidays they had paid for, leaving some families thousands of euros out of pocket. Some customers say they paid more than €9,000 for trips that included flights, hotels and Disneyland Paris visits. The problem often became apparent only when departure dates approached. Families had already paid the agency in full but were still waiting for tickets and other travel documents. One customer who contacted her airline directly was reportedly told she was not the airline’s customer because the booking had been made through the travel agency. For parents, the financial uncertainty has been accompanied by a particularly painful emotional
Some customers say they paid more than €9,000.
impact. Some holidays had been planned as Christmas or Three Kings presents, leaving children expecting their long-awaited Disneyland trip while their parents scrambled to discover whether the reservations existed. Customers have connected through social media to compare experiences, establish how many bookings may be affected and work out how much
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money was paid. Individual losses reportedly range from thousands of euros to more than €9,000, while the total financial value of the disputed bookings has not yet been established. Customers continue seeking answers. The affected families now face the difficult task of recovering their savings while awaiting the outcome of the investigation.
A 27-YEAR-OLD French national has been arrested in Salamanca after a witness allegedly spotted him attempting to start a fire while firefighters were already tackling several outbreaks nearby. Guardia Civil officers detained the man near La Samasa, in Ledesma, where more than a dozen firefighting resources had been deployed. According to the reported account, the witness The man had five lighters and gasoline. saw the man crouching beside the SA-305 and apparently trying to ignite another fire. Officers the assistance of a translator. His detenattended the location and arrested him whi- tion does not amount to a conviction, and le the firefighting operation was still under investigators must establish whether there way. Authorities reportedly found him ca- is sufficient evidence connecting him to any rrying petrol and five lighters. deliberate ignition. The blaze near the road was brought Authorities are examining the witness under control at around 8pm, but inves- statement, materials recovered by officers tigators are now examining whether the and evidence from the affected areas. Evisuspect was responsible for that fire or dence will determine whether prosecutors any of the other outbreaks reported in the can connect the suspect to nearby fires. Insurrounding area. The man appeared be- vestigators must establish whether the evifore a judge and was placed in provisional dence connects the detained man to one fire custody. He reportedly gave evidence with or several separate outbreaks. Photo credit: Branko Stojisavljevic/Shutterstock
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Animal trafficking SPAIN’S stretched animal shelters are facing a threat as police warn that puppies are being trafficked into the country for profit, with some allegedly arriving without health controls. The trade can leave buyers with sick animals and adds pressure to a welfare system already
receiving hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats each year. Police have detected increased animal trafficking along the AP-7, with puppies reportedly brought from Eastern Europe and sold in Spain for higher prices. Breeds identified include chihuahuas, dachshunds,
labradors and golden retrievers. The financial incentive is clear. A dog bought for around €100 can reportedly be sold for as much as €2,000. But authorities warn that bypassing veterinary safeguards can create health risks. A puppy may appear healthy when sold but develop illness after reaching its home, leaving families facing distress and bills. Legal animal transport is possible when safeguards are followed; the concern is when controls are avoided. The warning comes as Fundación Affinity recorded 285,720 dogs and cats entering Spanish shelters during 2025, including 169,268 dogs. The figure includes lost and abandoned animals, highlighting pressure on Spain’s protection network. Authorities say buyers should check documentation, identification and veterinary history. A cheap puppy may seem like a bargain, but its cost can fall on the animal, the family and an already overloaded nationwide shelter system.
SPANISH NEWS
Feria ride horror Credit: accem / Shutterstock
and were taken to Hospital de Vic. Later updates said their injuries were not life-threatening. Three other youngsters were also taken to hospital, while four people were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Ambulances, firefighters and police rushed to the fairground, where the ride was sealed for technical checks and the remaining attractions were closed. Investigators are now trying to
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Jellyfish invasion
The spinning attraction was sealed after nine people were injured in Tona.
A FINAL night at Tona’s summer feria turned frightening when a door opened on a fairground ride while its tilted platform was still spinning. The accident happened shortly before midnight on Tuesday, August 4. Several young riders were reportedly flung from the Disco Show attraction, leaving nine people injured, eight of them children. Two girls, aged 12 and 14, suffered fractures
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establish why the door opened. Fairground rides are a familiar part of Spain’s summer fiestas, especially for children and teenagers. Nothing reported so far points to a wider safety problem, and accidents of this kind are not commonplace. Even so, some families may find themselves checking the safety bar or closed door a little more carefully the next time the music starts and a ride begins to spin.
Credit: Instagram/Ivancl_
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MORE than 120 people were stung in a single day on Tuesday, August 4, after an invasion of Portuguese man o’ war forced the temporary closure of several beaches along Spain’s Basque coast. Red flags were raised at San Sebastian’s famous beaches, including La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola, after lifeguards spotted large numbers of the venomous marine creatures drifting close to shore. The Portuguese man o’ war, often mistaken for jellyfish but considerably more dangerous, can deliver extreMore than 120 people stung in one day. mely painful stings through its long tentacles, which remain dangerous even after the animal has washed up on the beach. which have carried the floating organisms Most of the injuries reported were treated towards the coastline. by lifeguards and were not considered seAuthorities say sea temperatures of around rious. However, earlier the same week one 24.8C have helped the creatures survive close regular swimmer was taken to hospital after to shore. suffering multiple stings near Getaria, while Beachgoers are being urged not to touch another woman required ambulance treat- Portuguese man o’ war, even if they appear ment after being stung at Zarautz. dead on the sand, as their tentacles can still inExperts believe the sudden influx has been ject venom. Anyone who is stung should leave caused by persistent north-easterly winds the water immediately and seek help from liand unusually warm sea temperatures, feguards or emergency services.
Give us all a break LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT WHAT on earth is going on with the British police force? They continually gripe about being undermanned and ill equipped. They moan about being so weighed down with work they have been forced to downgrade ‘risk assessment’ of crimes to a ridiculous level and are constantly moaning that they simply ‘can’t cope’ with the latest crime figures. As legitimate as these claims may be, our precious plod does seem to find the time to, dance around maypoles, thread their boots with rainbow laces and appear in a whole host of police reality programmes! Well, whereas laces and prancing about may not be very time consuming, I can assure you reality programs most certainly are. There are SEVEN cop shows running at the moment, from cops in the sky to the most recent, which concerns seizing criminal’s assets. (Scraping the barrel comes
to mind!). Well, I’ve done a number of reality programmes (including a few I would rather forget!) And I can assure you they take forever. Every five minutes you see on the screen can take hours to shoot. The retakes alone can be unbelievably time consuming. How can these ‘overworked’, rushed-off-their-feet officers of the law possibly find the time to be ‘reality stars’? Another thing these shows are inclined to do is eat into the respect the public should hold for its upholders of law and order. Any aura of mystique or invincibility is stripped away by these programmes, which often show the utter contempt a small number of individuals have for the upholders of law and order. With the wide publicity television creates, public order and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown outcome their actions could bring. No, I’m sorry but respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like jumped up, ego tripping
American TV robo cops. Let’s all get back to the true reality. The fact that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on telly and signing autographs simply doesn’t hack it. It’s time the powers that be put a complete ban on all cop reality shows. Let’s restrict their TV appearances to announcements of successful conclusions to crime investigations. Now that’s the way to earn respect. I don’t know about you but I am also heartily sick of this entire ‘touchy-feely’ syndrome that seems to have crept into British sport. Even cricket which used to be such a wonderful stiff upper lip occasion now sees batsmen hurrying up to each other and touching fists after a particularly good shot. Doubles at tennis is another example of this ridiculous habit. In fact, they still fist each other when they actually lose a point. All this coupled with the orgasmic grunts just about sums up the whole caboodle of our modern. self-subsidising players. For heaven’s sake, give us all a break. Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
euroweeklynews.com
Madrid Grand Prix Credit: Motorsport Photography F1
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
Madrid’s new Madring circuit will stage its inaugural Formula 1 weekend from September 11 to 13.
AT 3pm on Sunday, September 13, the finish line is due to be crossed at Madrid’s newest sporting attraction. Formula 1 will race at Madring for the first time, bringing the Spanish Grand Prix to a 5.4-kilometre circuit built around IFEMA and Valdebebas. The weekend begins on Friday September 11, with Formula 1 practice at 1.30pm and 5pm. A final practice session follows at 12.30pm on Saturday, before qualifying at 4pm. Formula 2 and Formula 3 will fill much of the space between the main sessions, with their own practice, qualifying and races spread across the weekend. The new circuit mixes permanent sections with public roads and contains 22 corners. Its showpiece is La Monumental, an almost 550-metre banked curve expected to be surrounded by tens of thousands of spectators. Anyone attending should plan around public transport as organisers say there will be no general parking at the circuit. Metro Line 8 stops at Feria de Madrid, while the C1 Cercanías train serves Valdebebas. Before the Grand Prix arrives, Formula 3 cars will test the track on August 24 and 25 as part of its final operational and safety preparations.
Change behind Spain’s bars A NEIGHBOURHOOD bar can keep the same sign, the same regulars and the same tortilla for years. But the person holding the keys is increasingly likely to have come from somewhere else. Foreign nationals now account for 25.5 per cent of Spain’s self-employed hospitality workers, effectively one in four, and their role is even larger among salaried staff, where they make up almost one in three. Barcelona offers the clearest glimpse of the change. A council survey of 999 bars and restaurants found that almost 44 per cent had an owner of foreign nationality. Chinese nationals alone represented 18.6 per cent, close to one in five, followed at some distance by Italians and Pakistanis. That does not mean every familiar Spanish bar is turning into a Chinese or foreign restau-
Credit: Nigel Jarvis / Shutterstock
10 13 - 19 August 2026
New figures reveal a quiet change behind the counter at Spain’s bars and restaurants.
rant. Many new owners still retain the coffees, beers, local tapas and classic menu del dia that customers already know and love. Self-employment groups say foreign entrepreneurs are also helping to fill a growing succession gap as older owners retire and find it increasingly hard to pass down their business to
a generation uninterested in long hours, rising costs and tight margins. The figures require care though: Spain counts individual autonomos rather than establishments, and hospitality includes accommodation. Even so, a quiet changing of the guard is clearly taking place behind Spain’s bar counters.
SPANISH NEWS
PEOPLE trying to renew their residency in Spain thought they had found help online, but instead some paid €67.50 for an appointment that didn’t exist, then transferred the same amount again when told that their first payment had gone astray. The National Police have arrested a man in Barcelona accused of advertising a supposed administrative agency on social media. Conversations then moved to WhatsApp, where applicants allegedly received documents appearing to confirm their residency appointments and bank details for payment. The bookings were eventually discovered to be completely invalid. Police say some victims were also persuaded to pay twice because of invented banking problems. When they demanded their money back, they allegedly re-
Credit: simona pilolla 2 / shutterstock
Phantom residency appointments
The alleged scheme moved from social media to WhatsApp before any money was transferred.
ceived false transfer receipts suggesting that a refund was being processed, in order to delay any complaints. The suspect is accused of fraud and document forgery, and was already wanted under several court orders from around Spain. Police have not said how many people were affected or revealed the total amount taken.
Official immigration appointment slots are free, although a legitimate lawyer or gestor can still charge for their services. Anyone recognising the payment pattern should contact their bank, preserve every message and receipt, and report the incident to police. Spain’s free 017 cybersecurity helpline can also provide advice.
Cows of the Costa HOLIDAYMAKERS arriving at two of Cadiz’s most popular beaches are getting an unexpected encounter this summer, with cattle wandering through the coastal landscape. Visitors to Bolonia and Zahara de los Atunes have been stopping to watch and photograph Cadiz’s distinctive reddish-brown Retinto cattle as the animals move between the countryside and coastline. For tourists expecting nothing more than sun, sea and sand, the sight of cattle near the beach can come as a genuine surprise. For locals, however, the animals are part of everyday life. Retinto cattle have been raised in Cadiz for generations and continue to graze extensively across the province, particularly around La Janda and the Costa de la Luz. The unusual beach encounters highlight what makes this stretch of Cadiz different from heavily developed resorts. Here, dunes, farmland, livestock and
beaches remain closely connected. Beachgoers are advised to keep their distance, avoid touching or feeding the cattle and never approach calves. Although generally calm, the animals remain powerful li-
vestock and can react unpredictably, particularly when protecting their young. For many visitors, the unexpected encounter offers a glimpse of a Cadiz that cannot be found in a typical tourist brochure.
13 - 19 August 2026
11
Madrid showdown awaits SPAIN’S newly crowned world champions will welcome England to Madrid on Sunday, November 15, for a Nations League match that could decide which side reaches the quarter-finals. The game kicks off at 8.45pm at the Metropolitano and brings one of European football’s biggest rivalries back to Spain. England will have no shortage of motivation. Spain beat them 2-1 in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, then returned from this summer’s World Cup as champions after defeating Argentina. No one needs reminding of how England exited this year’s World Cup. The Madrid fixture will be the countries’ second meeting in the group. England first host Spain at Wembley on September 26, before both teams face Croatia and Czechia home and way. The top two advance to the quarter-finals,
Credit: Orange Pictures / Shutterstock
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Spain beat England 2-1 when the sides last met in the Euro 2024 final.
while third place brings a relegation play-off. Tickets for Madrid are expected to go on sale from September through the Spanish federation’s official platform. Spain have yet to lose at the Metropolitano, where they have sco-
red 11 goals and conceded only once in three senior men’s internationals. After a World Cup staged across North America, Wembley and Madrid offer supporters a much closer chance to see both sides in person.
EUROPRESS
Italy after dark
Skydiver misses mark Credit:Brarm / Shutterstock.com
ITALY is testing extended evening hours at three major sites, hoping cooler nights and thinner crowds will improve the visitor experience. From August, Rome’s Colosseum and Pantheon, along with Milan’s Castello Sforzesco, are staying open well past their usual closing times for a month-long pilot backed by the Culture and Tourism Ministries and the City of Milan. The Colosseum welcomes visitors on Fridays and Saturdays from 7.45pm to 11.30pm. The Pantheon opens nightly from 7pm to 11pm, except Thursdays. In Milan, Castello Sforzesco now closes at 7.30pm, two hours later than normal. Discounted tickets are available for the Museum of Ancient Art, Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pieta, and the Passione e Disegno exhibition,
euroweeklynews.com
Credit:Goaheadeagles/FB
12 13 - 19 August 2026
An interesting start to the match.
Colosseum by night.
which spans works from Leonardo da Vinci to Keith Haring. Officials say the scheme reflects culture’s growing pull on tourists. It became Italy’s top reason for visiting in 2026, up from seventh place a decade ago, and now underpins €58 billion in visitor spending. Milan’s museums have seen a si-
milar rise, with annual visits climbing from 1.3 million in 2019 to 1.7 million. No decision has been made on whether the later hours will continue past August. Ministers will assess the trial’s success before considering a wider rollout to other heritage sites across Italy.
THOUSANDS of supporters gathered at De Adelaarshorst Stadium in Deventer for the opening weekend of the new Eredivisie season, but a dramatic pre-match incident stole the spotlight before a ball had been kicked. Ahead of the match between Go Ahead Eagles and Willem II, organisers arranged for a team of skydivers to deliver the match ball as part of the entertainment. However, one parachutist drifted off course during his descent. Instead of landing near the centre of the pitch, he headed towards one end of the stadium and was unable to regain control. The skydiver crashed into the goal structure and advertising boards surrounding the field, prompting audible gasps from supporters. For a brief moment, many fea-
red he had been seriously injured. As concern spread around the stadium, one television commentator remarked: “The first injury of the season is a fact, not of a player, but a parachutist.” Fortunately, the fears proved unfounded. Moments after the collision, the parachutist got back to his feet and raised his arms to the crowd, drawing cheers and applause from relieved fans. Footage of the incident quickly spread across social media, where football supporters reacted with a mixture of sympathy and humour. “I felt that. Damn,” wrote one viewer, while another commented: “Oof, that didn’t go quite as planned.” One fan joked: “There is such a big goal and you miss that too.”
FINANCE Ryanair sued
A TOTAL of 262 pilots have sued Ryanair for owed holiday pay. Ryanair often contract pilots through recruitment agencies, and argue independent pilots’ sick or holiday pay isn’t their responsibility. The lawsuit comes after Ryanair’s share price drops 16.52 per cent, as climbing fuel prices and slumping demand affect profits.
Streaming profits
SPOTIFY has recorded a net profit of €545 million in the second quarter of 2026, recovering losses of €86 million recorded in the previous fiscal year. Revenue increased 14 per cent to €4.7 billion, €4.3 billion of which came from paid “premium” subscriptions.
Preloved wedding
SECOND-HAND shopping is becoming increasingly popular, even for weddings. New data from Vinted shows searches for second-hand bridesmaid dresses are up 17 per cent. Many are trying to cut costs by buying pre-loved dresses, otherwise bridesmaids end up spending between £250 to £499 on the special day.
Heat losses
MORE than personal discomfort, frequent heatwaves can have a real effect on a country’s economy. According to Allianz Research, heat waves could reduce Spain’s GDP by 1.4 per cent. The loss is largely due to decreased productivity and increased pressure on infrastructure.
Reservations
INTERNATIONAL residents are expected to have empty stomachs and full wallets this August. Analysis by TheFork predicts tourists will account for 28 per cent of all restaurant reservations throughout the month. Comparatively, national tourism is expected to make up just 4 per cent.
euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
STAT OF WEEK
Total spending by international tourists visiting Spain in June increased by 4.0 per cent, reaching €13.579 billion. Average daily spending rose by 0.7 per cent to €211, according to INE.
Exports hit all-time high ANDALUCIA has posted a new export record for the first five months of 2026, reaching €19 billion, up 3.8 per cent on the previous year. Malaga province set its own record with a 9.1 per cent increase, giving the Costa del Sol a strong boost to the regional figures. Spain as a whole recorded growth of just 1.3 per cent over the same period, leaving Andalucia well ahead. The region ended the period with a trade surplus of €900 million, while the national balance remained in deficit. Vegetables led exports at €2 billion, rising 15.7 per cent. Mineral fuels and the mining sector also performed strongly, with mining exports surging 80.2 per cent. Aeronautics increased 36.9 per cent to more than €1 billion, highlighting continued strength in high-value industry.
Airbus in Sevilla.
Germany remained the biggest export market at €2.5 billion, up 14.7 per cent. France, Italy and Portugal also recorded healthy growth, while exports to China jumped 64 per cent, opening new opportunities for Andalucian goods. Almeria and Cordoba joined Malaga in setting provincial export records, spreading growth across the region. Although Sevilla still handled the largest export volume, broader growth is creating
Social media sales SOCIAL MEDIA has changed almost every aspect of daily life, including purchasing habits. With the rise of social media came the demise of traditional marketing strategies - billboards, print ads, television adverts. Instead brands reach consumers where they’re at: online. It is estimated that European brands spend €35.5 billion a year on social media advertising, according to IAB Europe’s
Energy battle Credit: Junta
BUSINESS EXTRA
13
AdEx Benchmark Report. And one of their biggest demographics is teenagers and children, who almost use social media as a step-by-step guide on what to buy. Approximately 54 per cent of youths aged 12 to 15 find what they want to buy through social media. Another 24 per cent frequently watch unboxing or product review videos. But how will this marketing strategy, and consequently annual sales, change
opportunities for more businesses to expand. Stronger exports are expected to support jobs in logistics, aviation, food production and engineering. Firm demand across Europe, together with rising exports to China, underlines the appeal of Andalucian products. Officials monitor the figures through Andalucia Trade and the national trade ministry, with the latest results providing further confidence in the regional economy. Credit: Basilico Studio Stock/ Shutterstock
Teenagers use social media to figure out what to buy.
as governments across Europe take steps to limit under-16s social media use? Experts predict toys, fashion and beauty sectors to be the most impacted.
Crop crisis
Tax the banks
Purchase power
THE weekly grocery bill is set to get even more expensive, as farmers across Europe warn of a slump in food production. Extreme heat, wildfires and drought have all impacted the annual harvest, leading the EU to cut harvest predictions by 7 per cent. In Spain, it is expected the cereal crop will drop from 24 million tonnes to less than 18.5 million tonnes. Olive groves have been amongst the hardest hit, once again driving olive oil price rises.
AS Prime Minister Andy Burnham looks to tackle the cost of living crisis, there has been renewed demand to tax UK banks to help fund his agenda. The outcry also comes off the back of the UK’s biggest banks raking in a collective £29.2 billion in profit in the first half of 2026. Campaigners believe a windfall tax on this lucrative banking business could raise £19 billion, which would go towards the government’s October budget.
A BIGGER pay packet does not always mean a better standard of living. Across Europe, purchasing power offers a clearer picture of what minimum wage earners can actually afford once living costs are taken into account. While Luxembourg still tops the rankings for nominal pay, Spain performs far better when adjusted for purchasing power. It sits alongside France, Slovenia and Poland, with minimum wages worth more than 1,500 purchasing power standards (PPS). Findings from Eurostat highlight how lower living costs can boost workers’ spending power, proving that headline salaries alone do not tell the full story.
SPANISH supermarkets have declared war on the energy drink business. Two of Spain’s biggest chains - Carrefour and Mercadona - are taking advantage of the demand to sell their own branded beverages 40 per cent cheaper than Coca-Cola’s Monster, the most popular brand on the market. Energy drinks are big businesses. Annual sales grew 38 per cent in the last four years, reaching €298 million in 2025 with Spaniards buying approximately 105 million litres. However, new age restrictions could cut into profits.
Lease increase LEASING companies in Spain have invested heavily to expand fleets, spending €5.8 billion since January 2026. According to AER data, 235,388 new vehicles have been registered by leasing companies, 10.2 per cent more than in 2025. Strong investment is a positive sign of high demand. In fact, leasing a car is becoming a popular alternative to personal vehicle ownership, accounting for approximately 26.5 per cent of registered vehicles on the road.
Poetry boom THE hype around Christopher Nolan’s newest blockbuster, The Odyssey, has breached the Box Office, helping UK poetry sales reach record highs. After leaving the cinema, many movie-goers are seemingly heading to the bookshop. So far in 2026, poetry sales have increased by 13.3 per cent to £8 million. If momentum continues, sales could reach £17 million by the end of the year. UK print sales for the Odyssey increased by 1,400 per cent after the film’s release.
FINANCE
14 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 10 August
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Closing Prices 10 August
Net
3I Group.....................................2.847,00............2.877,00......... 2.835,00......... 223,21K Admiral Group............................3.943,80............3.962,00......... 3.884,00......... 111,67K Airtel Africa................................. 328,52................332,2............... 325............. 368,69K Anglo American..........................4.005,00............4.018,00......... 3.950,00......... 366,19K Antofagasta................................3.994,00............4.001,00......... 3.931,00......... 175,28K Associated British Foods............2.103,00............2.127,00......... 2.097,00.......... 76,56K AstraZeneca..............................12.012,40..........12.096,00....... 11.898,00........ 536,86K Auto Trader Group Plc................. 518,8.................520,4..............512,6........... 284,25K Aviva............................................ 715,6.................715,8..............706,4........... 817,15K B M European Value Retail........... 234,4...................236................. 232............. 261,71K BAE Systems..............................2.231,00............2.249,00......... 2.201,00.......... 845,3K Barclays....................................... 521,7...................522................514,5.............5,52M Barratt Redrow............................. 318,4.................319,1..............316,1.............3,93M Beazley.......................................1.292,00............1.295,50......... 1.291,00.......... 620,9K Berkeley.....................................3.574,00............3.574,00......... 3.492,00.......... 17,53K BP................................................ 519,6.................526,8..............518,3.............4,01M British American Tobacco..........4.446,00............4.454,00......... 4.341,00......... 258,07K BT Group..................................... 197,9.................200,8............... 197...............3,34M Bunzl..........................................2.860,00............2.860,00......... 2.826,00.......... 80,66K Centrica..........................................153..................154,3..............152,1.............1,74M Coca Cola HBC AG.....................4.992,00............5.000,00......... 4.898,00.......... 65,91K Compass....................................... 32,4..................32,64..............32,19........... 152,76K ConvaTec Group............................233..................233,6..............226,4.............1,84M Croda Intl...................................3.304,00............3.340,00......... 3.276,00.......... 62,81K DCC............................................6.375,00............6.380,00......... 6.370,00.......... 22,38K Diageo........................................1.792,60............1.800,00......... 1.717,50...........2,02M Diploma.....................................7.740,00............7.740,00......... 7.655,00......... 148,28K EasyJet......................................... 667,2...................674...............665,74............6,64M Entain.............................................537....................540................531,8........... 383,06K Experian.....................................2.854,00............2.859,00......... 2.821,00......... 848,45K F&C Invest.....................................344..................344,4..............342,8........... 240,54K Flutter Entertainment..................7.588,00............7.718,00......... 7.536,00...............0 Frasers...........................................811....................825................. 804............... 3,35K Fresnillo.....................................2.889,00............2.913,00......... 2.803,00......... 336,98K Glencore....................................... 560,2................568,55.............558,8.............4,33M GSK plc......................................1.962,50............1.970,50......... 1.931,00...........1,11M HALEON....................................... 372,1.................372,1............... 369...............1,79M Halma.........................................3.832,00............3.832,00......... 3.762,00.......... 66,56K Hikma Pharma...........................1.712,00............1.717,00......... 1.671,00......... 167,56K Hiscox........................................1.833,20............1.838,00......... 1.804,00.......... 215,9K Howden Joinery.............................834..................835,5..............827,5............ 39,22K HSBC.........................................1.535,80............1.536,80......... 1.519,60...........4,37M IAG............................................... 444,6.................445,1..............439,1.............1,98M ICG PLC.....................................2.030,00............2.032,00......... 2.012,00.......... 67,82K IMI PLC......................................3.126,00............3.138,00......... 3.100,00......... 178,42K Imperial Brands..........................2.788,00............2.788,00......... 2.750,00......... 214,57K Informa........................................ 903,4.................908,4............... 899............. 282,08K InterContinental........................... 158,1.................158,4..............156,4............ 32,81K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek.......................................5.835,00............5.840,00......... 5.835,00.......... 26,91K J Sainsbury.................................. 351,6.................353,3.............349,79.......... 551,03K JD Sports Fashion........................ 95,06.................95,42..............93,48.............3,38M Kingfisher..................................... 327,1.................327,1..............322,4........... 437,45K Land Securities............................ 711,5.................712,5............... 706............. 388,24K Legal & General.......................... 315,92..................316................308,8.............4,53M Lloyds Banking............................ 115,9...................116...............113,95...........22,75M London Stock Exchange.............8.972,00............8.978,00......... 8.718,00......... 264,98K Londonmetric Property................ 194,4.................195,9..............192,5.............1,51M M&G............................................ 365,6.................365,7..............360,9........... 531,01K Marks & Spencer........................ 405,75................407,7..............402,4.............1,28M Melrose Industries....................... 480,9.................482,9............... 476............. 371,38K Mondi........................................... 906,8...................927................902,6............ 57,19K National Grid..............................1.194,71............1.196,25......... 1.183,00............1,3M NatWest Group..............................717..................717,6..............704,2.............2,94M Next..........................................15.805,00..........15.820,00....... 15.625,00......... 29,81K Pearson......................................1.225,50............1.238,50......... 1.224,50......... 147,45K Pershing Square........................3.920,00............3.938,00......... 3.888,00.......... 49,08K Persimmon................................1.143,00............1.151,70......... 1.133,00......... 464,54K Prudential...................................1.052,00............1.053,00......... 1.023,50...........1,13M Reckitt Benckiser.......................5.284,00............5.288,00......... 5.242,00......... 149,29K Relx............................................2.614,50............2.638,00......... 2.588,00......... 876,29K Rentokil....................................... 359,05................360,2.............355,23............6,63M Rightmove................................... 476,4.................478,9.............468,35.......... 521,13K Rio Tinto PLC.............................7.455,00............7.515,00......... 7.439,00.......... 313,7K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.546,40............1.550,40......... 1.526,20...........1,44M Sage...........................................1.036,50............1.046,94......... 1.021,50......... 512,94K Schroders.................................... 583,5...................584................. 583............. 145,95K Scottish Mortgage......................1.377,00............1.378,00......... 1.365,00......... 294,17K Segro.............................................964..................965,8..............953,6........... 567,93K Severn Trent..............................3.106,00............3.112,00......... 3.080,00.......... 36,16K Shell...........................................3.294,00............3.330,00......... 3.283,00.......... 895,3K Smith & Nephew........................1.110,00............1.110,50......... 1.098,00......... 827,51K Smiths Group.............................2.717,00............2.717,05......... 2.691,00......... 192,92K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........7.489,70............7.495,00......... 7.369,50.......... 47,75K SSE............................................2.368,00............2.383,00......... 2.357,00......... 202,18K Standard Chartered....................2.216,00............2.216,00......... 2.187,00......... 432,03K Standard Life................................ 941,5.................941,5..............927,5........... 252,46K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,14.................83,96..............82,94.............2,61M Tesco........................................... 471,9................475,51.............470,1.............2,93M Unilever......................................4.697,00............4.703,50......... 4.659,50............412K Unite..............................................537....................537................. 532............. 194,41K United Utilities............................1.423,00............1.427,00......... 1.410,00......... 127,52K Vistry Group................................. 275,2.................281,6..............272,2........... 237,99K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 119,85................120,2.............118,65...........13,65M Weir Group................................2.702,00............2.704,00......... 2.682,00.......... 71,91K Whitbread..................................2.510,00............2.523,00......... 2.490,30........... 48,4K WPP............................................. 393,3...................396................379,7.............2,56M
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 180,71................183,5.............179,46............2,55M Amazon.com............................... 272,26...............275,48............271,06...........30,67M American Express........................ 342,6...................350...............342,07............2,77M Amgen........................................ 404,85................418,4..............401,2.............2,61M Apple........................................... 312,41...............316,29............309,23...........46,14M Boeing......................................... 232,19...............240,37............231,33............7,13M Caterpillar.................................... 856,96...............879,33............856,96.............2,9M Chevron...................................... 189,23...............189,78............187,02............7,18M Cisco........................................... 120,88...............122,19.............119,9............14,05M Coca-Cola..................................... 86,85.................87,97..............86,42............13,57M Goldman Sachs..........................1.032,58............1.068,04......... 1.030,78...........1,73M Home Depot................................ 349,52...............353,55............347,51............2,62M Honeywell................................... 240,74..................250...............239,93............5,04M IBM............................................. 233,43...............234,47............228,44............4,25M J&J............................................. 256,98...............262,11............255,28............6,93M JPMorgan.................................... 356,3................362,81............354,95............5,82M McDonald’s................................. 276,26...............276,83............271,76............4,21M Merck&Co................................... 128,37...............131,08.............127,8.............7,05M Microsoft.................................... 499,86...............501,56............488,52...........36,44M Nike.................................................42...................42,64..............41,85............18,15M NVIDIA........................................ 218,99...............223,63.............. 217.............113,94M P&G............................................ 146,97................148,5.............145,45............8,77M Salesforce Inc............................. 186,77...............187,02.............. 183...............13,3M Sherwin-Williams........................ 363,42...............371,53............362,13............1,88M The Travelers.................................386.................386,59............382,25............1,48M UnitedHealth............................... 403,97...............416,97.............402,4.............4,71M Verizon......................................... 46,99.................47,48..............46,58.............24,3M Visa A.......................................... 370,47................371,1.............365,25............5,02M Walmart...................................... 112,07...............114,56............111,04............23,2M Walt Disney................................. 104,68...............104,73............102,52...........14,05M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 10 August
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced TEN Holdings.................................................. 252,20 %........................68,98M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR......................... 194,28 %........................57,78M ClearOne......................................................... 166,30 %........................69,45M Creative Medical Tech Holdings....................... 71,92 %.........................272,9M Gauzy............................................................... 67,81 %........................234,25M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 58,42 %.........................69,98M Zenta................................................................ 47,79 %..........................2,32M Wearable Devices............................................. 46,71 %..........................8,29M Surgepays........................................................ 45,66 %.........................273,8M Ensysce Biosciences........................................ 44,83 %........................498,05M Iovance Biotherapeutics................................... 43,09 %.........................73,43M Honest Company.............................................. 40,78 %..........................20,1M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................ 40,12 %.........................31,36M Insmed............................................................. 33,86 %.........................12,04M Oportun Financial............................................. 32,84 %..........................2,45M Hertz Global Holdings...................................... 29,49 %........................155,82M Paysign............................................................ 29,30 %..........................3,33M Aeva Technologies........................................... 28,81 %..........................8,43M 5E Advanced Materials..................................... 27,94 %........................630,33K M - Million Dollars
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Declined YXT.Com Holding ADR....................................-66,07 %..........................3,25M ThredUp...........................................................-50,48 %.........................22,34M Vsee Health......................................................-39,84 %..........................5,75M BillionToOne.....................................................-38,89 %..........................3,75M Recon Technology...........................................-34,12 %..........................81,6M Biovie...............................................................-33,82 %..........................8,78M Commerce.com................................................-31,96 %..........................6,09M XCHG Ltd ADR.................................................-30,26 %.........................15,46M LegalZoom.com...............................................-30,00 %.........................13,06M Inseego............................................................-28,60 %..........................1,93M Olenox Industries.............................................-27,93 %........................157,54K biote Corp........................................................-27,88 %........................704,97K Context Therapeutics.......................................-27,27 %..........................4,34M Reitar Logtech Holdings...................................-26,72 %.........................27,12M Akebia Ther......................................................-26,05 %.........................17,69M Tripadvisor.......................................................-25,52 %.........................11,26M AiRWA.............................................................-25,51 %.........................58,74M Advantage Solutions........................................-23,26 %........................305,44K Honeywell Aerospace.......................................-23,16 %.........................20,63M M - Million Dollars
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
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18 13 - 19 August 2026
FEATURE
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• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Birthday blended with giving
Summer surge
LOCAL favourite and Hollywood star Antonio Banderas marked his 66th birthday at the 17th Starlite Occident Gala, held under the stars in Marbella’s historic Nagueles quarry. The evening fused a 1970s hippy theme with a serious charitable mission. Banderas struck a reflective tone. “Peace and love is now a slogan that unfortunately makes very little sense in the world we are living in,” he said, signalling a shift from glamour to purpose. At midnight, Plácido Domingo led the room in singing Happy Birthday. In a spontaneous move, Banderas donated the very shirt he was wearing, painted by his own hand, to the charity auction. Proceeds support the Starlite Foundation’s work with Niños en Alegria, Cudeca and Lagrimas y Favores, Banderas’s own foundation.
TORREVIEJA is bursting into life this August, with new estimates suggesting as many as 438,000 people could be staying in the city at the height of the summer season. With around 113,000 residents registered on the municipal population roll, the figures mean Torrevieja is effectively becoming almost four times its normal size. The estimates come from a technical report prepared for Torrevieja Town Hall, providing a striking picture of just how dramatically the community changes each summer. July’s equivalent population is estimated at around 414,000, rising to 438,000 during August. Even in September, around 348,000 people could still be using the city’s homes, streets and services. Torrevieja’s huge number of second homes plays a major role. The municipality has more than 62,000 of them, while only around 1,600 hotel places are available across 14 hotels.
Costa Blanca North
Almeria
Miles that matter
Pride in full colour
BENIDORM became part of a deeply moving nationwide challenge when Madrid firefighter Jaime Domínguez Ibáñez ran 42 kilometres through the resort to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health. Known as JimmyGo, the ultrarunner was joined by local athletes and Marina Baixa firefighters as he tackled a route taking in Poniente and Levante beaches before finishing outside Benidorm City Hall. The marathon was one stage of his ‘Break the Silence’ campaign. Domínguez has pledged to run 3,953 kilometres across Spain, one for every person who died by suicide in the country in 2024. Along the way, he carries a ‘torch of silence’, filled with names and messages dedicated to people lost to suicide. Benidorm also hosted a talk about the campaign, giving residents the chance to hear the personal story behind his mission. For JimmyGo, every exhausting kilometre
VERA demonstrated its pride in true technicolour, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with an outrageously bright and festive parade. The 2026 Vera Playa Pride Parade marks a decade of advocacy. More than a bright party atmosphere, this march through the streets represents the importance of diversity and respect, positioning the freedom to live and love authentically as a basic right that should be afforded to all. Anticipation was high in the days leading up to the landmark event, especially as the parade was postponed out of respect for the Los Gallardos wildfire. Thousands flooded the streets in support. Some followed the route in cars, soft tops down and music blaring. Others partied on elaborately decorated floats. Hundreds more followed on foot, until the parade arrived at Playa Vera Hotel, where Rafa Lopez took to the stage to deliver the traditional Pride Proclamation.
Mallorca
Costa Calida
A royal good time
Lagoon love
KING FELIPE VI has wrapped up a busy weekend in Mallorca after competing in the 44th Copa del Rey de Vela before joining his family for dinner at a Palma restaurant. The King sailed aboard Hispania in the Abanca ORC 0 class, finishing second overall and winning the final race of the prestigious regatta in the Bay of Palma. After racing ended, Felipe attended the trophy ceremony at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, where he was welcomed by Balearic President Marga Prohens and other regional and local officials before presenting awards to the winning crews. Later, he joined Queen Letizia, Queen Sofía, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía at Mía restaurant in Palma’s Portitxol district. The family were also accompanied by Jean Henri Fruchaud, a close friend of Queen Sofía. The dinner provided a relaxed end to the royal family’s Mallorca weekend.
IN a symbolic gesture of solidarity, thousands of residents and visitors gathered at the beaches of Los Alcazares to form a massive human chain in order to call for a “living Mar Menor.” This peaceful protest, which has now been ongoing for six consecutive summers, took place primarily at the Los Espejos beach, with hundreds of residents expressing their commitment to protecting this unique ecosystem, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe. The beaches were alive with activity. Banners displaying slogans, as well as the seahorse, which has long represented the Mar Menor, could be seen all along the human chain. Over the years, the protests bloomed from small local gatherings on the idyllic beaches of the Region of Murcia to become a global movement, supported by more than 140 international organisations.
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FEATURE/EUROPRESS
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Ted Lasso
t: Apple TV edi Cr
AFTER a cathartic, only slightly disappointing finale, Ted Lasso has unexpectedly returned for a fourth season. The American-football coach turned proper-football coach is back at Richmond, this time to lead the Lady Grayhounds to victory. Releasing weekly on Apple TV, the first few episodes already feel like a return to form, with each episode full
of Kansas quips, British banter and lots of positivity.
The Drama
4/
X
DAYS before Robert Pattinson and Zendaya’s characters are set to walk down the aisle, the two go to dinner with their close friends. After a few too many glasses of wine, secrets come to light that change everything, sending their wedding week off the rails. The Drama is at once a hilarious dark comedy, and a fascinating philosophical think-piece that will leave viewers debating long after the end credits.
Credi t: A 2
Getting away with murder in Spain - sort of! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
WITH today’s global uncertainty, is it surprising we’re drawn to TV crime dramas? Their mysteries, twists and memorable characters let us experience all the thrills of real life but none of the spills! And faced with such unpredictability we get solutions and closure. Whether it’s the UK’s ‘Line of Duty’ or Spain’s ‘Money Heist’ (‘La casa de papel’, a massive global phenomenon), ‘The Innocent’ (‘El inocente’), ‘I Know Who You Are’ (‘Sé quién eres’) or ‘Locked Up’ (‘Vis a vis’, the Spanish equivalent
to ‘Orange Is the New Black’). However, it’s not just crime drama that’s flourished. Readers have turned in droves to crime novels to see the good guys win and loose ends tied up and readers tell me this is what they like about my crime thrillers. The latest ‘The Girl in Red’ just published both on Kindle and in paperback and ‘The House of Secrets’ available soon in audiobook format - all culminating in an invitation for inclusion in the prestigious Book Riot’s 2026 Read Harder Challenge! All novels narrated as before by Rayner Bourton (‘Rocky’ in The Rocky Horror Show’s original London production). Thanks for all messages to my website below about this column (you’ve followed now for 17 years!) and my audiobooks (free audio samples on Amazon). Happy listening!
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
13 - 19 August 2026
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Shipwrecked Guinness A MURKY bottle of Guinness that spent more than 160 years beneath the sea could help scientists recreate the pint enjoyed in Victorian Ireland. Divers discovered up to 20 bottles of stout among the cargo of a shipwreck around five kilometres off Dover during the summer of 2025. The vessel is believed to be the Mindora, which sank after a collision in November 1864 while travelling from London to Vancouver. Rather than risk tasting the contents and attempting to split the oldest G in history, expedition diver Stefan Panis and historical researcher Paweł Truszynski have launched ‘Project Jurassic Beer’. Professor Kevin Verstrepen, a brewing yeast specialist at KU Leuven in Belgium, will help examine the bottles. Finding
living yeast after so long is quite unlikely, but surviving DNA could lead scientists to a closely related modern strain and allow them to brew something resembling the original stout. The Guinness Archive at St James’s Gate in Dublin is also helping the team assess the disco-
very and compare it with company records. There is still a little mystery attached. Historic documents differ over whether the ship was called Mindora or Mindoro, and its identity has not been formally confirmed. Nor has a tasting date been announced, so the Victorian pint remains tantalisingly out of reach.
Credit: Frederik Boving
Scientists hope the recovered yeast could help recreate the Guinness enjoyed in Victorian times.
Volcano airport shutdown HOLIDAYMAKERS heading to Sicily faced severe travel chaos after a dramatic nighttime eruption from Mount Etna forced aviation authorities to shut Catania airport on Friday, August 7. Lava fountains shot hundreds of metres into the night sky from the Voragine crater. A new fissure opened along the Valle del Leone at an altitude of roughly 2,750 metres, sending molten rock cascading down uninhabited slopes towards the Valle del Bove. Thick plumes of dark volcanic ash pushed up to 7,300 metres high, drifting across eastern Sicily. Air traffic controllers issued a red aviation warning and suspended incoming flights at Catania’s Vincenzo Bellini Airport. Outbound journeys were quickly grounded due to a lack of aircraft on the tarmac. Brief lulls in activity permitted a few aircraft to touch down, but renewed ash clouds forced further runway closures. Airlines diverted incoming jets to alter-
native airports, including Palermo, Trapani, and Comiso. Railway operator Trenitalia added emergency services through Messina and Palermo for stranded passengers. Civil protection volunteers deployed across regional ter-
minals to assist passengers. Meanwhile, nearby towns experienced heavy falls of fine black ash. Local residents reported subterranean booms, together with striking views of the fiery orange glow.
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Feline fun Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock
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Clean ears, happy dog HEALTHY ears are an important part of your dog’s overall wellbeing, but they’re often overlooked until a problem appears. Regular checks can help you spot issues early and keep your four-legged friend comfortable. Start by looking inside your dog’s ears once a week. Healthy ears should be clean, pale pink and free from strong odours. A small amount of wax is perfectly normal, but redness, swelling, excessive wax or an unpleasant smell could point to an infection or ear mites. When it comes to cleaning, always use a dog-friendly ear cleaner recommended by your vet. Gently apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for a few seconds, then let your dog shake their head before wiping away any loosened debris. There are a few things you should avoid. Never insert cotton buds into your dog’s ear canal, as they can push wax deeper inside or even cause injury. Household products, alcohol and hydrogen
Credit: Laracuth / Shutterstock
PETS
euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
Check ears regularly.
peroxide should also stay well away from your pet’s ears as they may irritate the delicate skin. Dogs with floppy ears or those that enjoy swimming may need more frequent ear checks, as
moisture can encourage infections. If your dog is scratching their ears constantly, shaking their head or seems uncomfortable, arrange a visit to your vet rather than attempting to treat the problem yourself.
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CHURCH SERVICES THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC service - please contact Fr
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13 - 19 August 2026
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KGM Rhino – capable, comfortable and full of features ROAD TEST
Facts at a Glance
By Mark Slack THE pick-up market has changed from one of purely working vehicles to one that now encompasses a more mixed, leisure orientated set of buyers. Standard and optional equipment now includes many features found in cars, many of them in luxury models, with ventilated seats, navigation and adaptive cruise control not being unusual on the specification list. KGM, previously SsangYong, have been progressing their range with a more refined and quality bias for some time and we are seeing the results. The latest Musso Rhino pick-up is an example in point and is very much a top-line model with standard features that put many cars to shame and raises its game against the competition. Prices start from €45,585/£38,995 with the plus model adding a €1,169/£1,000 premium. Essentially the Rhino+ adds a more capacious load carrying capacity, courtesy of a slightly longer load bed, and an increased payload weight. While the Rhino may not worry the
likes of Ford’s Ranger, it does offer an excellent specification for a very competitive price. With suitably rugged looks it comes with selectable all-wheel-drive, including low range, hill descent and hill start. Over a rugged but dry and dusty course, the Rhino coped admirably. It’s not meant to be a Land Rover capable off roader, but it’s much more capable than many would imagine. Standard fare is very generous with everything from Nappa leather seats, heated seats all-round and ventilated front seats to intelligent cruise control, dual zone climate and much more. The interior feels very car like, and not at all utilitarian, with buttons, rotary dials,
a touchscreen that offers a simple swipe to access driver safety systems, it’s an object lesson in how to make a vehicle pleasant to drive. The 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine is not the most refined but, unless pushed hard, is surprisingly smooth. There is no manual gear option but the 6-speed automatic changes smoothly enough and it’s not difficult to keep up with traffic even on faster roads. On the road the ride is a bit choppy (the Rhino EV rides noticeably smoothly and a report on that will follow next month) although it’s better when cruising and handles particularly well in
• Model: KGM Musso Rhino • Engine: 2.2-litre turbo-diesel developing 202PS and developing 400Nm of torque. • Gears: 6-speed automatic, selectable all-wheel-drive with high and low ratio and locking rear differential • Price: €45,585/£38,995 excl’ VAT • Performance: Maximum speed 172kph/107mph/3.5 tonne tow capacity/1090kg payload • Economy: 7.9 litres per 100km/29.6mpg • Emissions: 252 g/km Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets. off-road conditions. For those not worried by the badge on the bonnet, or the perceived trends as to what is a ‘must buy’, the Rhino offers a superbly well-equipped, capable and price competitive option. Some competitors may be more polished, but KGM has really stepped up its game with the latest Rhino.
GIBRALTAR’s Ministry of Transport has issued its first fixed penalty notice under new UKEU treaty rules, fining a Spanish taxi driver £300 for operating on the Rock without a local licence. Transport inspectors intercepted the marked vehicle on Devil’s Tower Road, citing the driver for using a motor vehicle as a public service vehicle without approval from Gibraltar’s Transport Commission. Royal Gibraltar Police and Transport Inspectors continue to patrol the border to prevent unauthorised Spanish taxis and private-hire cars from entering. Road signs clearly state that Spanish cabs are prohibited from crossing. Passengers traveling into Gibraltar from Spain must disembark at the border and board a locally licensed taxi.
Credit: Shutterstock
Spanish taxi fined Credit: gibraltar.gov
Second-hand secrets Second-car showroom. Taxi pinched for taking ride in Gibraltar territory.
The current EU-UK agreement excludes cross-frontier taxi and private-hire operations. Authorities confirmed they will enforce existing legislation to protect local drivers from being undercut by foreign operators, with plans already underway to increase fine amounts. Personal travel in Spanish-registered private vehicles remains permitted, but commercial activities face strict controls. Spanish priva-
te-hire services, chauffeur-driven vehicles, and commercial deliveries must comply with full border regulations or face financial penalties. Gibraltar officials stressed that strict enforcement will continue to maintain standards and protect local businesses. Anyone driving across the border should remember that some foreign vehicles are restricted strictly to personal use.
SPAIN’s vehicle fleet continues to age despite thousands of new registration plates appearing every month. Almost 11 per cent of all new registrations in the first quarter of 2026 were used cars, vans and SUVs imported from other European nations. These 55,241 imported vehicles averaged 10.5 years old, and more than one in five had passed 15 years. Once granted Spanish plates, official registers log them as brand-new entries, hiding their true working life. Germany supplies 44 per cent of these imports, generally sending cleaner Euro 6 models. France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy supply much of the rest, with French cars often failing to meet basic environmental standards. Over 86 per cent
arrive from within the European Economic Area under free-movement regulations. Older imported models frequently lack modern driver-assistance systems, creating potential safety issues. Cars over 10 years old face growing restrictions in low-emission zones within towns of more than 50,000 residents. Higher annual ITV inspection costs and unknown service histories add further financial uncertainty for buyers. The DGT traffic authority recommends requesting a full vehicle report to check the original registration date before completing a purchase. Nevertheless, for low-income drivers facing economic pressure, second-hand imports remain a vital, affordable way to stay mobile by replacing even older domestic cars.
euroweeklynews.com
Torrox hoops Triathlon action Credit: FAB MAlaga / X
Torrox hosts Provincial 3x3 Basketball Circuit. TORROX once again proved its reputation as a great sporting destination after hosting another successful round of the Provincial 3x3 Basketball Circuit at the Ferrara sports complex in Torrox Costa. The lively event brought together 45 teams and around 160 players, creating an exciting atmosphere that attracted families, friends and basketball fans throughout the day. Players of all ages competed across a range of categories, with fast-paced matches, impressive teamwork and plenty of thrilling moments on court. The standard of competition was high from start to finish, highlighting the growing popularity of 3x3 basketball across Malaga province.
In the men’s senior category, local side Oscar Medina Mi Alcalde claimed the title after defeating Ballers de Torrox in an entertaining final. Winners were also crowned in cadet, junior and mixed minibasket divisions, celebrating young talent alongside experienced players. The tournament formed part of the XXXII Provincial 3x3 Basketball Circuit, which visits 19 municipalities during the summer. Local officials praised the participants for their excellent sportsmanship and competitive spirit, while spectators enjoyed a day packed with action. The success of the event once again underlined Torrox’s ability to host vibrant community sporting occasions that bring people together.
ALMUÑECAR is set to become the centre of Andalucia’s triathlon scene on September 5, when the stunning Parque El Mediterraneo hosts a thrilling double sporting event. Around 400 athletes are expected to take part in a day that will combine grassroots competition with elite-level racing. Organised by CD Triatlon Nazarí Almuñecar, with support from local and regional sporting bodies, the event will feature the first ever Acuatlón de Menores Nazarí Almuñécar #387 alongside the IX Triatlon Cros Urbano Nazari Almuñecar #387. The morning will begin at 9.30am with the new children’s aquathlon, giving young athletes the chance to experience the excitement of triathlon through swimming and running. Open to categories from pre-benjamin to juvenil, the event aims to encourage youngsters to
Credit: EvrenKalinbacak / Shutterstock
SPORT
24 13 - 19 August 2026
Almuñecar prepare to host a triathlon this September. discover the sport in a fun and accessible way. Later, from 5pm, attention will turn to the established Triatlon Cros Urbano, which returns as the Andalucia Triathlon Cros Championship for the fourth time. Competitors will tackle a challenging course featuring 500 metres of swimming, 10.84 kilometres of mountain biking and a 3.8-kilometre
run through the spectacular surroundings of Parque El Mediterraneo and Playa El Pozuelo. With its unique coastal setting, improved circuit and exciting urban format, the event promises an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike. Entries are now open via the Federacion Andaluza de Triatlon.