Costa Calida 19 - 25 February 2026 Issue 2120

Sailing spectacle

San Pedro del Pinatar hosts young athletes in major event

THIS past weekend, San Pedro del Pinatar was the hotspot on the Costa Calida for sailing enthusiasts in Murcia and beyond. During the weekend, the Villa de San Pedro Nautical Club hosted the second edition of the Flamingo’s Optimist Race, an exciting international competition that played out in the waters of the municipality’s coastline.

More than 150 young and talented sailors participated in the event, reinforcing sports tourism in the area and establishing San Pedro del Pinatar as the place to sail in Murcia.

Organised by the Villa de San Pedro Nautical Club, in collaboration with the Sailing Federation of the Region of Murcia and the Spanish

Association of the International Optimist Class, the event is a high-level sporting event focused on grassroots sailing. Through the successful event, the municipality was consolidated as the ideal location for nautical practice and competition throughout the year.

With under-13 and under-16 categories, the event focused specifically on young talents in the Region of Murcia and beyond.

In addition to the emergence of young athletes, the II Flamingo’s Optimist Race also provided a significant boost for local tourism and economic activity, as athletes, their coaches and families, and sailing enthusiasts arrived to cheer on the participants.

Midnight rescue

Hikers saved from wildfire

A DRAMATIC overnight rescue became the defining moment of a fierce wildfire that swept through the Sierra de la Muela and Cabo Tiñoso natural park in Cartagena, as two trapped hikers were brought to safety unharmed.

The blaze began late on Saturday, February 14, first spotted at 9.45pm by a maritime rescue vessel. Fanned by gale-force winds from the tail end of Storm Oriana, the fire spread rapidly across protected scrubland, creating dangerous conditions and prompting swift precautionary action. Around 50 people were preventively evacuated from 80 caravans near the Rambla de La Azohía to ensure their safety.

At 1.40am, a patrol from the Guardia Civil carried out a precise rescue of two hikers trapped inside a nearby cave. Despite thick smoke and challenging night-time conditions, both were saved without injury - a powerful example of calm coordination under pressure.

Dozens of Plan Infomur personnel battled the flames through the night. By Sunday, February 15, winds eased, allowing helicopters to begin water drops. Regional President Fernando López Miras confirmed crews contained the final hotspots by mid-morning. The area has since been declared safe for the public to return.

Swinging support

A NEW charity golf series is teeing off, headed by one of Spain’s greatest athletes. Rafa Nadal, a Spanish former tennis player, is launching an event for the Rafa Nadal Foundation in Los Belones, Cartagena on February 26 and 27. The funds raised from the series, called Spin & Swing, will go towards the education and sports programme for vulnerable children and adolescents in Palma, Valencia and Madrid.

The two-day event, taking place at the La Manga Club, will unite 15 corporate teams of six players each. As part of the event, participants will enjoy premium experiences, including gourmet cuisine from the Restaurante Cabaña Buenavista, a Murcia establishment that boasts two Michelin stars.

Rafa Nadal, widely considered one of the greatest tennis players in history with 22 Grand Slam titles, is also a lover of golf, and stated that

Rafa Nadal launches charity golf series supporting vulnerable youth programmes.

the initiative was inspired by his passion for the sport, and he and the team at the Rafa Nadal Foundation were spurred on by the challenge of organising a golf tour, which was something new to them.

The Rafa Nadal Foundation uses sports and education as a way to transform

society and change the lives of vulnerable people with challenging areas and few resources, particularly children, with its programmes and events. The foundation regularly organises events, like the Spin & Swing event, to raise funds for their various projects.

Calida Carnival

VALENTINE’S weekend brought much celebration to the Costa Calida, from small and intimate dinners to grand parties along the coastline, and one of the municipalities that had the most magical time was San Pedro del Pinatar. Over the weekend of February 13, 14, and 15, the municipality hosted a blowout Carnival celebration, in which more than 1,000 people from 21 local and visiting groups participated.

Despite the windstorms sweeping the Region of Murcia, San Pedro del Pinatar showed up and showed out with extravagant costumes, over-the-top performances and vivid colours in their grand Carnival parade that took place on the morning of Sunday, February 15. The parade, which be-

gan at 11.00am from the Casino Cultural and paraded through to the Lo Pagán esplanade, was headed first by the children of the municipality, dressed as adorable chess pieces, board game pieces, superheroes, and cowgirls.

Other costumes that featured in San Pedro del Pinatar’s Carnival included Harry Potter characters, puppets, jesters, and sunflowers, all from different schools in the municipality. Characterised by rhythm, colour and imagination, the performances were an explosion of vibrant joy and festivities on the Costa Calida. The performing groups in the parade focused their costumes and dances on originality and elegance, and the crowds fully enjoyed the event.

Aiding child poverty

Autónomos tax trap

Account confusion risks

THE Spanish government has proposed a universal €200 monthly child benefit per child under 18 as part of the Estrategia de Desarrollo Sostenible, which sets 100 social targets to improve welfare, equality, and children’s rights.

The measure aims to replace the current patchwork of targeted supports, which often fail to reach all eligible families, and address persistent child poverty affecting nearly 30 per cent of households with minors, placing Spain among the highest-risk EU countries after Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania.

The benefit would be available to all families living in Spain including expatriates regardless of income or employment, eliminating administrative barriers.

Many families currently miss out on deductions or Minimum Vital Income due to bureaucratic requirements or lack of awareness.

WELFARE OVERHAUL AHEAD COSTS

Expatriate families legally resident in Spain and registered with authorities would also be eligible.

Implementation requires inclusion in the General State Budget and parliamentary approval, with no official start date set. Finance Minister María Jesús Montero noted that existing social instruments are effective but need updating.

The strategy also includes broader child protection measures, expanding the Law on Protection of Minors against Violence (LOPIVI) and regulating digital environments to prevent cyberbullying and economic exploitation. Vulnerable groups, including foster children and unaccompanied minors, are prioritised to ensure equal protection. If approved, the scheme would provide a reliable, inclusive safety net and strengthen Spain’s alignment with EU social welfare standards.

Silent tax rise

SPAIN’S government insists taxes are not increasing. Yet for many workers, freelancers, homeowners and small businesses, 2026 feels very different. Several measures already approved - or quietly embedded in existing rules - are set to push up the overall tax burden without fanfare.

The Juan de Mariana Institute’s Impuestómetro 2025 report shows Spaniards have faced 94 tax and social contribution increases since 2018. While much of the EU reduced fiscal pressure after the pande-

mic, Spain’s tax burden has risen by nearly two points of GDP, a trend expected to continue.

Social security contributions will climb, with the Intergenerational Equity Mechanism rising from 0.8 per cent to 0.9 per cent, affecting employees and the self-employed. The maximum contribution base will reach €5,101 per month, while a tougher solidarity surcharge applies above the cap, raising the real cost of qualified labour. Income tax will increase via fiscal drag, as brackets remain unadjusted for

inflation, pushing modest pay rises into higher rates. Local charges will rise too, with municipalities passing waste collection costs to households. Property owners face higher reference values for transfer, inheritance, and stamp duties.

At the top end, savings over €300,000 face 30 per cent tax, while farmers lose diesel and fertiliser deductions. Individually modest, these changes collectively tighten household budgets - the practical effect of a tax rise, regardless of government claims.

MANY self-employed workers in Spain find it convenient to use a single bank account for both personal and business finances. However, tax advisers warn this habit can quickly lead to serious problems with Hacienda, often without the account holder realising.

From the tax authority’s perspective, clarity is crucial. Any money entering a professional account is presumed to be business income unless clearly documented otherwise. Transfers from savings, family support, or other accounts to cover short-term needs can be reclassified as undeclared income if not properly recorded. The risk increases when personal expenses are paid from the same account and claimed as business costs. During an inspection, Hacienda may flag these as non-deductible, creating both undeclared income and incorrectly deducted expenses.

Financial consequences can be severe. Penalties for failing to declare income start at 50 per cent and can rise to 150 per cent in cases of repeated errors or suspected concealment, plus late-payment interest. For limited company operators, personal spending through company accounts can be treated as undeclared salary or hidden benefits, triggering additional tax, accounting and legal complications. Poorly kept accounts can prolong audits, harm credibility with banks, and reduce business value if sold.

Professional advice is consistent: keep personal and business finances separate, document all transfers, and clearly explain loans or reimbursements. While it may feel tedious, maintaining distinct accounts is the simplest way autónomos can avoid costly surprises.

euroweeklynews.com

Coastal channels

SWIMMERS on the Costa Calida have something to look forward to for the summer of 2026: for the first time, two marked swimming channels are being planned for the Levante Beach in Cabo de Palos and the San Gines Beach in La Azohia. Beachgoers will still be able to swim in designated bathing areas, and the new lanes are being built specifically for those who like to swim long-distance parallel to the shore for sport or training.

The channels will make

open-water swimming at the two beaches safer and more organised. The Cartagena City Council has applied for permission to occupy part of the public terrain in order to build the channels, which are planned to be installed from 2026 to 2029. If all goes according to schedule, the channels will be fully operational by this summer. Both lanes will run alongside the shore and are planned to be 500 metres long. They will be marked by buoys every 25

metres, and each will have two lanes to allow swimmers to move in both directions.

Open-water swimming is increasing significantly in popularity on the Costa Calida, but this has also increased concerns about safety, particularly about clashes with jet skis and other small watercraft. In the marked lanes, only swimmers would be allowed, creating a space only for them without worry of being in the way of marine traffic.

Storm safety

IN response to the windstorms sweeping across the country, emergency services and first responders have been quick on their feet to resolve hundreds of incidents, including fallen trees, debris and floods due to the back-to-back named storms Nils and Oriana. The Region of Murcia and in particular Murcia City have been no exception, with the area being put under an orange wind alert over the weekend of Friday, February 13 and the city council resolving more than 150 incidents in the area alone, with no injuries reported.

In the early morning hours of Friday, February 13, the Murcia City Council activated the municipal protocol for action in the face of the tough winter storms, which activated an orange alert for strong gusts of wind in the municipality. This allowed them to deploy different municipal services quickly and effectively, and thanks to the strict coordination, more than 100 incidents were resolved by the afternoon of Saturday, February 14, including the removal of scaffolding and detached elements from a construction site in Plaza Circular. The area was immediately secured and no one was injured.

Cleaning services, the Local Police, firefighters, Civil Protection teams, and the Parks and Garden services were tirelessly intervening in incidents, including fallen branches and trees, detachment of sheets, signs, and elements of façades, hanging cables, and displacement of fences.

MURCIA has joined a special campaign created to raise awareness for a rare neuro-genetic disorder that affects some one in 15,000 to 20,000 live births, and is estimated to affect some 100 or more people in the region. The ‘Join Us’ campaign, promoted by the Angelman

Syndrome Association, reached Murcia and illuminated its emblematic municipal buildings and spaces in the colour green, as a show of support for patients with this rare disease.

Angelman Syndrome is a rare disorder that causes severe develop -

Green gesture

mental delay, speech impairment, and ataxia, or loss of full control of bodily movements. Patients with the disease are also characterised by their happy and excitable demeanours and frequent

laughter. International Angelman Syndrome Day was celebrated on Sunday, February 15, the day the Murcia City Council gave visibility to this rare disorder by illuminating its municipal offices and

spaces in solidarity.

The Angelman Syndrome Association aims to raise awareness of the syndrome and strengthen support and community for families affected by the neuro-genetic disorder, while also seeking to support ongoing research on the disease to advan-

ce knowledge, treatment and possible therapeutic options for patients.

The Angelman Syndrome Association is a non-profit organisation, established in Barcelona in October 1996, by the initiative of a group of parents with children affected by this syndrome.

Repsol recognitions

GASTRONOMY in the Region of Murcia is ever-growing with international recognition. Studded with Michelin stars and certifications, municipalities in the area now boast their fair share of fine dining, and the Repsol Sun Guide for 2026 has now added new Murcian restaurants to its list of the finest restaurants in Spain.

Repsol Suns are the highest honour awarded by the Repsol Guide. One Sun represents high-quality cooking with interesting ideas; two awards represent excellent cooking that stands out for its technique; three Suns are reserved for the most exceptional restaurants.

El Baret Wine Bar and Hispano 1926, both in Murcia, and La Casa de los Abuelos in Jumilla, have all

received the prestigious Repsol Sun recognition for the first time, officia lly placing them on the list of the best restaurants in Murcia and in the country.

Along with these three debuts, another Region of Murcia res taurant now boasts the incredible feat of two Repsol Suns: this is Ba rahonda, located in Yecla. Ba rahonda has also gained fame in the province for earning a Michelin star in addition to the Repsol Sun, cementing it as one of the best restaurants on the Costa Calida.

With these outstanding additions, the region now has 26 award-winning establishments.

Drones take flight

DRONES are no longer a futuristic idea in Madrid. They are already buzzing above hospitals, across emergency zones and even beneath the city’s streets.

The Community of Madrid has recently unveiled a four-year strategy backed by €16 million to position the region as a global leader in drone technology. The strategy aims to boost research, manufacturing and public service applications.

Healthcare is one of the most striking areas of development. Drones are being trialled to speed up urgent transfers of medicines, blood and specialist equipment between hospitals.

In September, a demonstration flight between La Paz and Carlos III hospitals, flying about 30 metres above ground and operated by two pilots, completed the journey in roughly three minutes, producing crucial data to advance the project beyond testing.

Drone use is not limited to the skies. Canal de Isabel II is deploying unmanned aircraft in parts of the region’s 2,500 kilometres of water galleries. Using artificial intelligence, the drones capture detailed images of infrastructure, spotting potential faults without putting personnel at risk.

Across the regional administration, around a

dozen drone projects are underway in healthcare, emergency response, urban planning and the environment.

With the global drone market expected to reach €57.8 billion by 2030, Madrid is aiming to shape the industry rather than import technology. The tests have begun, the investment is committed, and the region plans to stay airborne.

Scenic seafront

THE scenic seafront of Los Urrutias welcomes thousands of visitors a year, and many of them, when choosing the ideal place for a seaside meal, tend to look towards the Restaurante Club de Regatas.

A Spanish and Mediterranean restaurant located in the marina of the nearby sailing club, the restaurant is a Los Urrutias favourite for grabbing a savoury meal and getting the best of the marine atmosphere in the idyllic coastal town. With panoramic views of the sparkling Mar Menor and the yachts moored in the harbour, Restaurante Club de Regatas not only delivers mouth-watering meals … it delivers atmosphere.

The restaurant’s menu is a showcase of classic Mediterranean flavours, with a special emphasis on seafood and traditional dishes made

RESTAURANT REVIEW

from fresh, local ingredients. The paellas, octopus dishes, grilled fish and other seafood options are particular favourites, reflecting the rich maritime heritage of Los Urrutias. In addition to the seafood, there is also a selection of traditional Spanish tapas and dishes, including tostas and salads. The foods pair perfectly with the restaurant’s array of wines, which the friendly ser-

vers will help select.

Whether you’re anchoring a boat in the marina or simply looking for a pleasant place to eat after a warm day at the beach, this restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere and a memorable taste of Murcia’s famed coastal cuisine.

Tel. 623 615 793

clubregatasmarmenor. com/Restaurante/

COSTA CALIDA

Village vigour

THOSE near the Costa Calida hub of Mazarron looking for a social activity that will also keep them fit are in luck: the Department of Equality of the Mazarron Town Council is organising a variety of free activities to keep residents moving in the months leading up to summer, all taking place in rural areas of the municipality and completely free of charge.

The ‘Gimnasia en pedanías’, or ‘District Gymnastics’, activities, which kicked off at the beginning of February, include various different types of exercise to attract a wider audience of all fitness levels. In the programme, residents can participate in maintenance gymnastics classes, pilates classes, and zumba dance classes, taking place in

the villages of Leiva and Pastrana.

Along with physical health, the initiative also aims to strengthen community in some of Mazarron’s smaller districts, and offer residents a chance to socialise and connect with their neighbours. The ‘District Gymnastics’ programme will be available until May 31, keeping residents fit and

active just in time for summer. Registration is free of charge and can be done via WhatsApp on 682 043 318 ‘Participate and take care of your well-being while having fun!’ states the campaign’s slogan, welcoming locals and visitors of the municipality to take control of their health and get moving in some of Mazarron’s most charming villages.

Surfing spectacle

SURFERS and fans of surfing alike in the Region of Murcia are buzzing with excitement for the upcoming fifth edition of the Mediterranean Surf Cup, an unmissable event for both beginner and open surfers,

as well as the crowds that attend the event to support them.

One of the most established events on the competitive surfing calendar in the Mediterranean, the event is expected to attract

countless surfers and fans to La Reya Beach in Puerto de Mazarron.

Organised by Bahía Surf in collaboration with the Surf Federation of the Region of Murcia, the event will kick off at 8.30am with the athletes tackling the waves at the idyllic La Reya Beach, with a crowd cheering them on. The fifth edition of the Mediterranean Surf Cup will take place on February 21 and 22, the first weekend with expected waves, in Puerto de Mazarron, at La Reya Beach, at Junta de los Mares.

The event is expected to unite surfers from the base and open categories, as well as sports fans, and further its establishment as a key event for competitive surfing not only on the Costa Calida, but in the Mediterranean.

Promising young athletes will be over the moon at the chance to compete in this exciting February event in Murcia.

Man buys village

AMERICAN entrepreneur Jason Lee

Beckwith has purchased the abandoned Spanish village of Salto de Castro for approximately €310,000. Located in Zamora on the Portuguese border, the settlement was built in the 1940s to house hydroelectric workers but has sat derelict since 1989.

Beckwith, CEO of Rocking Hospitality, discovered the property online and sold his California guesthouse to fund the venture. He plans to relocate to the site with his wife to oversee its transformation into a luxury tourist destination. The ambitious project aims to create a ‘farm-to-table’ experience, featuring 184 beds across villas, apartments, and a hostel.

The redevelopment will repurpose the village’s original infrastructure, including converting the church into a multicultural space and adding a gym, spa, and winery. Beckwith targets an opening date of late 2026, for the initial phase.

The project is expected to create 35 local jobs, providing a signi cant economic boost to the Aliste region, which struggles with rural depopulation. While local authorities welcome the investment, environmental groups have raised concerns regarding the impact on the protected Arribes del Duero Natural Park.

Hay fever alert

FOLLOWING persistent rainfall early this year, Spain is forecast to experience higher-than-usual pollen concentrations, raising risks for hay fever su erers. Health and meteorological experts predict that the combination of abundant moisture and warming temperatures will encourage plant growth, leading to more pollen production from grasses, olive trees, plane trees, and other species. Rain temporarily suppresses airborne pollen but promotes vigorous growth and owering, resulting in heavier pollen release once conditions warm.

Urban areas such as Madrid, Sevilla, Toledo, and Valencia may see elevated counts even in February, while regions including Andalucia and Extremadura may experience early pollen from alder, hazel, and plane trees.

The pollen can fragment into ne allergenic particles that remain suspended longer, increasing respiratory

The upcoming season is expected to be ‘historic’.

exposure. Specialists from the Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC) describe the upcoming season as ‘intense’ or ‘historic’, a ecting both known allergy su erers and some previously una ected individuals.

Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, coughing, and diculty breathing. Expatriates and residents in Spain are

advised to monitor pollen forecasts, begin preventive medication early under medical guidance, keep windows closed during peak pollen hours, wear masks or sunglasses outdoors, wash after exposure, and plan activities when counts are lower. Consulting a pharmacist or allergist about antihistamines, nasal sprays, and allergy testing is recommended for severe cases.

Marriage game plan

SPAIN’S latest attempt to get couples thinking seriously about commitment comes in an unexpected form: a video game. As church weddings continue to fall, Catholic leaders are embracing digital culture in the hope of reconnecting with younger generations who may feel detached from traditional religious ceremonies.

The numbers highlight just how much attitudes have shifted. According to the most recent figures, fewer than 18 per cent of weddings in Spain in 2024 took place in a church, just 31,462 out of 175,364 ceremonies. The drop is striking compared with 2007, when more than 55 per cent of couples chose a Roman Catholic wedding.

At the centre of the campaign is a retro style game titled ‘El amor, la aventura más épica’, meaning Love

is the most epic adventure. Players follow a young couple, Fran and Elena, as they tackle everyday tasks and earn prizes while learning the importance of patience, generosity, modesty, integrity and empathy.

The idea was first suggested by students at the Pontifical University of Salamanca and later developed by a professional vi-

deo game designer. Church leaders say the initiative is about inspiration rather than pressure. “The campaign is also proactive, aiming to showcase the beauty of Christian marriage,” the Spanish bishops’ conference said, adding that it hopes to encourage couples seeking stability to consider a church wedding.

Doctor strike

PATIENTS seeking medical consultations in Spain should prepare for significant delays as a nationwide doctors’ strike began on Monday, February 16. Led by the Spanish Confederation of Medical Unions (CESM), the industrial action targets proposed reforms to

the Estatuto Marco, the law governing public healthcare working conditions.

Physicians argue the government’s plan ignores chronic issues like burnout and staff shortages while failing to provide a specialised legal framework that reflects the unique responsibilities

of the medical profession. The initial walkout is scheduled until February 20, but unions have warned of a rolling calendar of monthly strikes extending until June. This prolonged dispute follows massive weekend demonstrations in Madrid, where thousands of doctors demanded the resignation of Health Minister Mónica García. While the Ministry of Health maintains that negotiations remain open, the lack of an immediate breakthrough suggests a period of sustained instability for the national health system.

In response, authorities have implemented minimum service requirements to protect essential care. Emergency rooms, intensive care units, and urgent oncology treatments will remain operational. However, routine primary care visits, elective surgeries, and specialist follow-ups face widespread cancellations. Residents and expats relying on public clinics can expect staffing levels similar to public holidays.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Revenues rise

DESPITE falling interest ra tes, Spanish banks increased their profits by €34 billion in 2025. As the number of loans increase, so does the reve nue from commissions. Of Spain’s six major banks, five saw an increase in profits compared to 2025, with San tander reporting the highest increase of 12 per cent.

Tax the robots

HEALTH Minister Monica Garcia advocates for taxing companies that replace a human workforce with AI. Garcia emphasised that AI is most beneficial as a tool, not as a threat. This proposed tax system would not be desig ned to punish innovation, but reward those who protect human interests.

Spam sanction

THE government are crac king down on one of the bi ggest nuisances of modern life: telephone spam. A re cently approved royal de cree prohibits calls to private numbers for advertisement or recruitment purposes, without express permission to do so. Doing so could lead to a fine of €600,000 to €6 million.

Telefonica Chile

TELEFONICA has sold its Chi lean subsidiary to NJJ Hol ding (51 per cent) and Millicom (49 per cent) for €1.156 billion plus €479 million debt. The agreement states Telefonica keeps 40 per cent of the fibre network, allowing the com pany to withdraw from Latin America, reduce debt and fo cus on core markets.

Beverage boom

IN 2025, Coca‑Cola earned €11.2 billion, a 23 per cent rise from 2024, with reve nues of €44 billion. Growth was driven by water, sports drinks, coffee, and tea, whi le volume gains were mo dest. For 2026, the company forecasts 4 5 per cent reve nue growth and 7 8 per cent EPS growth.

per cent of the population were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2025, according to the INE.

Fast fashion fight

THE rise of extra-fast fashion brands is prompting one of Europe’s most prominent retail moguls to scale back their operations in Spain.

Since 2019, the Swedish company has closed 69 shops across Spain, which attributes to 40 per cent of their Spanish network. Worldwide, H&M have closed almost 1,000 shops as they struggle to keep up with brands like Shein and Primark.

A total of 975 worldwide closures represents a 20 per cent decrease in H&M’s global network. H&M’s closure rate has been rapidly accelerating, with figures increasing year on year: 96 closures in 2023, 116 in 2024, 152 in 2025. In six years, H&M’s global network of shops has shrunk from 5,076 to 4,101.

Additional closures are imminent.

Heading into 2026, H&M announced their plan to open 80 new shops in high-potential markets, but close

160 underperforming locations.

In 2024, H&M’s CEO, Helena Helmersson resigned after four years, and was replaced by Daniel Erver. Having started at the company in 2005 as an intern, his story is impressive, however once appointed CEO he was tasked with a big challenge: improving profitability after a 4 per cent drop in sales.

While 2025’s net sales totalled

HMRC pockets £246 million

HMRC are cracking down on unpaid or undervalued inheritance tax (IHT) as investigations into dodged tax rose from 3,793 cases to 3,977. New figures show that, as a result of these investigations, the tax man pocketed £246 million in recovered tax.

Since 2020, the annual IHT take has risen more than 61 per cent to £8.3 billion. The original IHT threshold was set so only high-valued assets and estates would be eligible. However, rates have been frozen for so long that even families of modest means now owe significant IHT.

Such high rates further motivate families to underpay or avoid paying altogether, as many consider the tax to be an unfair burden.

€21.588 billion, profits fell short as these figures were 2.6 per cent below the revenue of the previous fiscal year.

Despite top-level personnel changes, H&M are still struggling to adapt to an evolving market saturate in cheap but low-quality goods from brands that operate primarily online, without the financial burden of storefronts.

Tricking the system is becoming more difficult as the HMRC deploy AI technologies software to detect unpaid tax. These systems are particularly adept at identifying inconsistencies, allowing the tax office to pursue more investigation than ever before.

Ageing government Spotify skyrockets

SPOTIFY experienced a last-minute boost in the final three months of 2025 with nine million paid subscribers joining the service. This is partly due to the service’s ‘Wrapped’ feature, which provides users with an in-depth recap of their listening habits and allows Spotify to stay on top in a competitive streaming market. Spotify reported €3.7 billion in revenue from these three months alone. In total, Spotify has 250 million paid subscribers, and 750 million total users worldwide.

SPAIN is facing an eventual staffing shortage as 55 per cent of current government employees are over the age of 50. Within the Ministry of Defence, that figure rises to 71 per cent aged 50 or above.

An ageing workforce is a recurring issue across labour markets. Rising living costs require employees to continue working, limiting opportunities for younger generations. Younger workers must be phased in over the next 15 years, or the government risks staff shortages in critical roles.

Ford face losses

FORD paid €759 million more than they were expecting in 2025, due to abrupt changes to President Trump’s tariff programme. The scheme was originally presented as a way to help relieve the financial pressure of tariffs for car manufacturers who import vehicle parts into the country. However, the programme didn’t come into effect until much later than anticipated, leading to fewer gains. As a result, Ford doubled what they were expecting to spend, roughly €1.68 billion. Additionally, Ford took a €16.5 billion hit as they moved away from electric vehicles, contributing to a €10.6 billion Q4 net loss.

A RECENT report by the Apparel Impact Institute (AII) claims the fashion industry will experience a 34 per cent drop in profits by 2030 if it does not address the current climate crisis. The report clearly outlines three points that could cause the most damage to earnings: supply chain disruptions, higher carbon prices, more expensive materials, and a rise in energy costs. Given that profit margins are falling, companies are reluctant to invest in the necessary improvements. However, if the fashion industry doesn’t act soon, they risk losing 70 per cent of the industry’s $1.8 trillion value by 2040.

THE UK government has announced a Local Power Plan backed by up to £1 billion to expand community-owned renewable energy. Communities, councils and local groups will be supported to install projects such as rooftop solar on public buildings and buy shares in nearby generation. The scheme aims to cut energy bills, keep profits within local areas and support jobs, while contributing to clean-power targets by 2030 and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

A RECENT report highlighted how Spain is falling behind in registering agrifood patents, describing the shortcoming as a structural weakness of the Spanish production system. For every €1 billion in revenue, Spanish agricultural businesses generate only 2.2 patents. This figure is lower than the EU’s 6.7, and the USA’s 29.6. Comparatively, Spain registered 171 patents in 2024, while Europe resisted 4,561, marking a 67 per cent difference. The USA eclipses Spain and the EU, registering 26,263 patents.

3I Group 3.506,00 3.507,00 3.452,00 113,26K

Admiral Group 2.862,0 2.872,0 2.824,0 33,4K

Airtel Africa 334,20 335,20 330,20 134,98K

Anglo American 3.563,0 3.584,0 3.526,6 159,59K

Antofagasta 3.717,00 3.745,00 3.667,00 51,6K

Ashtead Group 5.196,3 5.272,0 5.186,0 62,48K

Associated British Foods 1.953,0 1.976,5 1.953,0 22,17K

AstraZeneca 15.000,0 15.186,0 14.944,0 94,89K

Auto Trader Group Plc 467,50 472,20 464,70 568,73K

Aviva 632,60 636,40 628,20 466,12K

B&M European Value Retail SA 182,50 183,00 178,95 209,32K

BAE Systems 2.004,00 2.005,00 1.979,00 751,38K

Barclays 463,70 466,10 460,15 3,34M

Barratt Redrow 379,60 385,89 374,50 1,27M

Beazley 1.227,50 1.236,00 1.227,00 291,97K

Berkeley 4.400,0 4.430,0 4.340,0 9,01K

BP 461,37 463,74 458,15 2,2M

British American Tobacco 4.293,0 4.356,2 4.268,0 159,19K

BT Group 208,60 210,60 207,70 537,27K

Bunzl 2.128,0 2.146,0 2.124,0 27,38K

Centrica 191,35 192,00 190,45 326,84K

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.656,0 4.693,1 4.630,0 26,06K

Compass 2.081,00 2.086,00 2.068,00 301,1K

ConvaTec Group 226,80 228,67 226,20 182,25K

Croda Intl 3.003,0 3.047,0 2.999,0 12,49K

DCC 5.220,0 5.280,0 5.200,0 23,09K

1.820,2 1.830,5 1.810,0 199,62K

5.445,00 5.455,00 5.420,00 15,14K

488,50 490,00 482,30 378,72K

Entertainment 9.334,0 9.518,0 9.304,0 14,29K

711,00 711,00 689,50 5,15K

3.818,00 3.850,00 3.787,25 39,34K

3.882,0 3.900,0 3.832,0 42,23K

1.451,00 1.455,00 1.441,00 88,58K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Heineken cut back

AS demand for beer falls, brewer Heineken prepares to cut 7 per cent of their global workforce over the next two years. Experts predict a slow growth rate of 2-6 per cent, compared to 2025’s 4-8 per cent. Some 6,000 total jobs are at risk across brewing and white-collar roles.

Food sector leads

THE food sector is leading the way amongst franchises in Spain, earning €9.313 billion in 2025. With 20,515 franchised locations across 56 brands, it beat the restaurant and fashion sectors. Also, the food sector invested more than any other, €2.695 billion, and generated 127,193 new jobs.

GOOGLE’S parent company, Alphabet, is looking far into the future, as the tech giant issues a rare 100-year ‘century bond’ as part of a large multi-currency debt offering.

The financing is linked to the company’s desire to invest more in artificial-intelligence. With the AI technology market continuing to evolve, Google plan to invest in data centres, chips and strengthening Gemini’s infrastructure in order to remain competitive.

Despite being worth close to $4 trillion (€3.3 trillion), Alphabet raised approximately $32 billion

100 year bond

Fish fraud remains a risk

ACCORDING to a report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), an estimated 20 per cent of the €162 billion global fishing industry may be fraudulent in some way.

Fish fraud is defined as ‘a deliberate practice intended to deceive others’. This can occur in many ways, from adding colouring to make fish look fresher, overfishing, theft, etc.

Studies suggest 30 per cent of seafood is mislabelled in restaurants, with consumers paying a premium price for a completely different fish, generating significant profit for the fishing fraudsters.

Fish fraud can pose more than just a threat to consumers wallets, as biodiversity and human health are also at risk.

(€26 billion) through the bond sale. This sale included a sterling dominated 100-year tranche, which reportedly comes with a 6.125 per cent interest rate. The century-bond offers several advantages.

For one thing, debt can be cheaper than paying with cash, allowing Alphabet to support massive long-term projects without draining funds or diluting shareholders. It also allows the company to lock in borrowing costs for decades, providing stability amid potential rising interest rates.

Century bonds are extremely rare, primarily because there’s so little guarantee that the borrowing company will be around in 100 years. Individual investors certainly wouldn’t live to see the bond mature. Instead these kinds of long-term bonds appeal to institutional investors including pension funds and insurers.

Andalucia’s surge

ANDALUCIA’S economy reached €234.2 billion in 2025, growing by 3.2 per cent, faster than Spain and the EU. Growth was well-balanced, remaining strong in industry and advanced services. Since 2018, GDP has risen 12.9 per cent. Over seven years 534,000 jobs were created, with employment hitting record highs in 2025. These figures cement Andalucia as a key economic player.

FERRARI’S luxury cars are still in high demand, evidenced by their backlog through 2027 and stock surge. Ferrari projects €7.5 billion in revenue and €2.93 billion EBITDA, maintaining a 39 per cent margin. Although global sales dipped to 13,640 units, earnings were supported by a richer product mix, personalisation programmes, and increased racing sponsorship revenue.

A wonderful one-off

LEAPY LEE SAYS

IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ON my recent trip back to the auld country, I was lucky enough to catch The Last Laugh, a new play recently opened in London’s West End. This most enjoyable production features actors portraying now sadly departed British comedians, including Bob Monkhouse, Eric Morecambe and, of course, dear old Tommy Cooper.

It couldn’t help reminding me of the last time I met this unforgettable laughter maker. Some years ago, my wife and I were visiting my old mum in the seaside town of Eastbourne on the south coast. One evening we decided to have dinner in a local restaurant and, shortly after being seated, we were pleasantly surprised to see the great Tommy Cooper arrive with his partner, who lived locally and had also chosen to dine there.

I had met Tommy on several occasions before and was delighted

when he asked to join us at our table. As usual, he was his normal boisterous self and we soon settled down to a very pleasant repast. All went well until Tommy’s order arrived. To our surprise, he rather sternly called the waiter back and insisted that all his food be served on separate plates. No explanation was given.

The waiter eventually returned carrying four plates - one with steak, one with chips, one with peas and one with carrots. Normal conversation resumed and Tommy happily tucked in, though his individual portions now occupied a substantial part of the table. At the end of the meal, and after a couple of large brandies, Tommy asked if I had a car.

When I told him mine was parked right outside, he wondered if I’d mind dropping him and his lady home. I mentioned that, as he was such a big chap, he might struggle to fit into my small Mini Cooper. He assured me it wouldn’t be a problem.

Moments later, we were all

squeezed into the Mini, with Tommy sitting beside me in the front. His vast bulk filled the entire passenger side, his knees almost under his chin. When we arrived at his house, he thanked me profusely and asked us to wait, as his wife had a present for us.

She soon reappeared with a round biscuit tin, which she handed over with more thanks and a promise to ‘do it again sometime’. We drove off, and my wife inquisitively prised open our gift. It was half full of nothing but broken biscuits.

We simply had to laugh. It wasn’t until I later told the story to a couple of friends that I discovered Tommy had a reputation for being extremely careful with his money. I’d had no idea - but I certainly learned that evening.

Tommy Cooper - a wonderful one-off. Heaven will need a sturdy table!

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.

Jet2 adds

380,000

seats

FOR expats in Spain, ying back to the UK is set to become signi cantly easier this summer after Jet2 announced a major expansion of its Spain ight programme, adding more than 380,000 extra seats for summer 2026.

The additional capacity will run between April and October 2026, representing around 9 per cent growth compared with summer 2025. In total, the airline plans to o er more than 4.6 million seats to and from Spanish destinations, underlining continued demand for UK–Spain travel.

For British residents living across mainland Spain, the Balearics and the Canary Islands, the increase should mean more availability during peak periods and greater exibility when booking ights home. It also makes it easier to balance life between both countries, whether that’s popping back for weddings, christenings and milestone birthdays, or planning longer stays with family during school holidays.

Jet2 is not only strengthening services to major hubs such as Mallorca, Tenerife and Alicante, but also expanding routes to regional airports including Girona, Reus, Almeria, Jerez and La Palma.

At peak summer, the airline expects to operate more than 840 weekly ights across 161 routes between Spain and the UK.

TOPTrending

The Artful Dodger

THE Artful Dodger series reintroduces a beloved Dickens character when the young pickpocket follows in the footsteps of many teenagers and moves to Australia. There Dodger, or rather Jack Dawkins, reinvents himself into a well-respected young doctor. However, the new life he’s built is turned upside down when he runs into an old acquaintance, and meets an ambitious governor’s daughter who dreams of becoming a surgeon herself. Back with a bang, season 2 promises high-stakes action and a forbidden romance that simmers under the surface.

Steal

PRIME VIDEO’S newest heist thriller, Steal, turns something objectively boring (pension fund investment) into a truly gripping narrative, full of twists and turns that are impossible to see coming.

Game of Thrones alum Sophie Turner offers a stellar performance as the show’s lead, Zara, who arrives at work expecting another boring day at the office. She couldn’t

predict that her workspace would be infiltrated by a gang of thieves, and she would be forced to do their bidding. Or did she?

Costa del Sol Long-awaited escalators

PASSENGERS at Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Renfe has restored the escalators at the Cercanías station following more than a year of breakdowns. The continuous outages had caused significant hardship for passengers with heavy luggage, the elderly, and those with limited mobility.

The rail operator confirmed that the escalators on platform 1 are now fully operational. Rather than attempting further temporary repairs, engineers opted for a complete replacement to ensure long-term reliability and safety. The modernisation project, valued at over €770,000, is being executed in two phases by the specialist firm TKE.

Work began on platform 2 in mid-January and is expected to conclude within the current quarter. The restoration marks the end of a frustrating period for tourists. Throughout the works, station elevators remained functional to maintain basic accessibility.

Axarquia

Salobreña luck

THE ONCE lottery draw on Saturday, February 14, brought a romantic windfall to the coastal town of Salobreña in Granada. Dedicated to Saint Valentine, the weekend draw awarded a ‘Sueldazo’ prize worth €2,000 per month for the next 10 years, totalling €240,000 for one lucky winner.

The winning ticket was sold by Sofía López, an ONCE vendor since 2013, at her regular pitch on the town’s main roundabout. Expressing her delight, López noted that while she had previously sold a €35,000 prize, she had long hoped to deliver a larger win to the local community. She remarked that residents often felt major prizes bypassed Salobreña in favour of neighbouring Motril or Almuñecar.

The Granada win was part of a wider streak of luck for the region. On Friday, February 13, the Cuponazo draw distributed over €8 million across seven Andalucian provinces, including €240,000 within Granada City. In the Saturday draw, Huelva also benefited, with 14 tickets sharing €280,000.

Mallorca

Palma embraces Sa Rua

THE capital burst into colour and sound on Sunday February 15 as Sa Rua 2026 wound its way through the city centre, drawing thousands for the capital’s annual Carnival parade. From La Rambla along Carrer de la Riera and down to Avinguda de Jaume III, pavements were packed with families, residents and visitors eager to witness one of Mallorca’s most anticipated winter celebrations.

This year’s procession featured 11 floats and 36 parade groups, each competing to outshine the next with bold concepts and high-impact performances. Towering fantasy creatures, playful nods to pop culture and sharp social satire rolled through the streets, accompanied by pulsing music and tightly choreographed dance routines. The scale of the production reflected months of preparation, with intri-cate handmade costumes, elaborate props and coordinated staging on full display.

Children perched on shoulders to catch a better view as performers tossed sweets into the crowd.

Costa Blanca South School spectacle

NUMEROUS towns along the Costa Blanca have been lit up with colour, song and dance this February for the traditional Carnival, and Torrevieja has been one of the main hubs of culture and explosive festivities. Fresh off the heels of the main Carnival celebration, complete with blowout parades, feathers, glitter and impressive performances, the municipality also celebrated the traditional School Carnival: a gathering of more than 500 boys and girls from 11 local schools.

During the School Carnival event, the streets of the municipality came alive with joy, creativity and fun as students paraded through in elaborate costumes. Torrevieja was alight with brave superheroes, pretty princesses, ferocious animals and zany movie characters.

The School Carnival is one of the most beloved events in the Torrevieja Carnival schedule, with children showing excitement for the parade year after year.

Almeria

Carnival spirit survives

MOJACAR residents did not let a little wind or rain dampen their spirits, or threaten their beloved Carnival Parade. When ongoing storms and an orange weather warning forced one of the town’s most anticipated events to be rescheduled, the locals rallied, ensuring the parade went ahead without a hitch the following day.

Hundreds took to the streets, showcasing an array of intricate costumes. Some troupes took this opportunity to highlight traditional dress, their costumes decked out in fringe and feather. Others harnessed the Carnival extravagance with bright leotards decorated in sparkling crystals and towering headpieces, capturing the celebrations’ bold spirit.

Some troupes dressed up as iconic characters from across a number of beloved franchises. One group of women all dressed as the Queen of Heart, accompanied by small children quite literally decked out as playing cards, an adorable addition to the procession.

Costa Blanca North

The Benidorm Fest finale

THE Benidorm Fest once again turned into a headline moment, reaffirming its status as both a major televised music competition and a powerful winter tourism driver. Staged at the Palau d’Esports L’Illa and broadcast nationally by RTVE, the festival has evolved into one of Spain’s most prominent live entertainment events, extending the city’s appeal well beyond its traditional summer season.

The impact on the ground was immediate. According to hotel association Hosbec, occupancy reached 88 per cent over the festival weekend, effectively filling hotels during what is typically a quieter winter period. Restaurants, bars and local businesses benefited from the influx of visitors, while the event generated an estimated 2,500 direct and indirect jobs.

On screen, the grand final drew significant national attention with more than 4.1 million viewers tuned in at some point during the broadcast.

The show averaged 1,085,000 viewers and secured a 12.1 per cent audience share.

Tried house and pet-sitting through HouseSitMatch yet?

PET-SITTING that saves you money

Planning a holiday but worried about expensive pet care costs?

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These animal lovers enjoy travelling across Spain and Europe while providing homeowners with significant savings on pet care and complete peace of mind. Your pets stay comfortable at home while your property remains secure.

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Real savings, real peace of mind

Every house-sit benefits everyone. Your pets receive one-onone attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Lucy - she saves over €1,500 annually using house-sitters instead of boarding kennels.

For a small annual registration fee, you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday.

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Pet food dilemma

CHOOSING the right food for your pet is crucial for their health and happiness. Pet owners often debate whether home-made meals or store-bought biscuits are better. Neither option is better than the other, they both have advantages and potential drawbacks.

Home-made pet food allows owners to control exactly what goes into their pet’s meals. By making it yourself, you know exactly what’s going in the food to nourish your pet, ideal for animals with allergies or special dietary needs. However, making balanced meals requires time and careful planning. Feeding a pet is different to feeding a human, and this may lead to pets missing out on essential nutrients.

What food is best for your pet?

Shop-bought pet food, including dry food and canned options, offers convenience and consistency. Shop-bought doesn’t mean low quality. Many brands often provide a complete and balanced diet, fortified with vitamins and

minerals that help your pet thrive. On the downside, some pre-packaged foods can contain additives.

The trick there is to read the label carefully, and monitor your pet’s

Making biscuits

KNEADING is one of the most endearing and curious behaviours cats display. Often called making biscuits, this rhythmic pushing of paws into blankets, laps or cushions can look unusual, but it has deep roots in feline instinct and emotion.

Kneading begins in kittenhood. Newborn kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow while feeding. This comforting action becomes associated with safety, warmth and contentment. As adult cats, they often continue the behaviour when they feel re-

laxed and secure, which is why many knead when settling down to sleep or while being stroked.

Kneading can also serve a practical purpose. Cats have scent glands in their paws, and by kneading they subtly mark their territory, signalling that a space feels safe and familiar. In some cases, it may simply be a way of preparing a soft resting spot. While kneading is usually harmless, sharp claws can make it uncomfortable for owners. Gently placing a blanket between you and your cat can help.

Walking tall

CATS walk like camels and giraffes: They move both of their right feet first, then move both of their left feet (a pacing gait). No other animals walk this way and this specialised movement enables a silent, stealthy stride for hunting and the ability to navigate uneven terrain with ease.

reaction whenever trying them with a new brand of food. Ultimately, what’s important is your pet’s health, lifestyle, and making sure they never go hungry.

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CHARITY

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

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MOTORHOMES

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MOTORING

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Nissan turning over a new LEAF

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

WE’RE all very familiar with EVs now and many companies are making great strides in sales of their electric cars. With a new Chinese EV seemingly being launched every month it’s perhaps not surprising that they are tending to grab the headlines. However, there are plenty of European and Far Eastern manufacturers building new EVs, and one of the latest is built in the UK. In all the EV mania of these new model reveals it’s easy to forget that one of the initial leaders, arguably the creators of the practical and useable EV. Nissan launched the LEAF back in 2010 when few practically useable electric vehicles were available, or had even been developed. Although it lost that initial appeal as more manufacturers joined the EV fray it has remained a constant and now the LEAF has been

relaunched in a new, more dramatic and stylish form.

Nissan has revealed that its all-new, British-built LEAF goes on sale this month. And the 75kWh model will be priced from €41,319/£35,999, or if purchased in the UK €37,015/£32,249 with the government’s electric car grant, and production commenced last month in the UK

With a range of up to 621km/386-miles (WLTP) on the 75kwh versions there are four trim levels: Engage, Engage+, Advance and Evolve,

play, powered tailgate, full-length front signature lamp with illuminated Nissan logo, 3D rear lamps and privacy glass.

Topping the range is the Evolve with a BOSE nine-speaker audio system, 48cm/19” alloy wheels, synthetic leather seats, power eight-way; slide/recline/height/ tilt front seats and driver’s massage seat.

a second version with a smaller 52kWh battery will also be available, with a range of up to 436km/271 miles. Pricing of this model will be announced at a later date.

Since its debut in 2010, the Nissan LEAF has sold close to 700,000 models worldwide, rightly earning its place in history as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle.

Standard equipment for the ENGAGE trim level includes a heat pump, navigation, 45cm/18” alloy wheels and dual 31cm/12.3” display screens. Next in the range is Heated front seats, heated steering wheel and wireless phone charging.

The equipment levels keep stepping up with the Advance model including a dimming panoramic roof, head-up dis-

As mentioned, prices start at €41,319/£35,999 for the lead-in Engage trim level, moving to the next level with the Engage+ the price is €42,352/£36,899, the Advance version at €43,614/£37,999 and finally the top-of-therange Evolve model at €45,910/£39,999.

From banger to classic Look, no hands

DRIVING an older car in Spain has long been a practical choice for expatriates. With a dry climate (usually) preventing rust and a local ‘park by ear’ culture, investing in an ‘old banger’ makes economic sense. Currently, nearly half of Spain’s cars are over 15 years old, but a significant legal shift is transforming these budget rides into protected ‘historic’ assets. Since the introduction of Real Decreto 892/2024 on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the process for classifying vehicles over 30 years old as historic has been revolutionised. The new regulations have seen registrations soar from 48,000 to over 175,000 in just one year.

For a fee of just €20 to €30, owners of

well-maintained, original vehicles can now apply for historic status, often completing the process online. Qualifying cars benefit from significant perks, including exemptions from road tax and reduced insurance premiums. Crucially, these vehicles gain access to Low Emission Zones (ZBEs) for up to 96 days a year, bypassing restrictions that affect other older models. The law also extends ITV inspection intervals to every two to four years, with vehicles over 60 years old exempt entirely. By simplifying the transition to ‘H’ status, the DGT hopes to preserve Spain’s automotive heritage, turning affordable daily drivers into valued pieces of cultural history.

TESLA has launched public demonstrations of its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software in Spain, marking a significant step for autonomous vehicle technology in Europe. Participants can now book ride-along sessions at Tesla stores in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, and Malaga.

While the system is not yet a commercial release, these trials allow passengers to experience the technology in real-world traffic. Accompanied by Tesla staff, the vehicles will navigate complex urban environments, including roundabouts, motorway junctions, and automated parking.

Despite its ‘Full Self-Driving’ title, the system currently requires constant driver supervision, with the human behind the wheel remaining legally responsible at all times.

The programme, which

runs until Thursday, April 30, follows road-testing authorisation from Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico.

Tesla is currently seeking broader regulatory approval across the EU, with CEO Elon Musk expressing optimism that a full European rollout could begin later this year.

The company claims its supervised technology can significantly reduce

collision risks, citing over 11 billion kilometres of global driving data. As regulatory bodies in the Netherlands and the wider EU evaluate the software, the Spanish demonstrations offer a rare glimpse into the future of assisted driving. Members of the public interested in the technology can reserve a demonstration slot via the official Tesla website.