Mallorca 9 – 15 October 2025 Issue 2101

Jet-set Beckhams

THE Beckhams made a stylish arrival in Mallorca this week, turning heads as they cruised the coast aboard their gleaming superyacht Seven.

David and Victoria, joined by their children Harper and Cruz, arrived in Palma by private jet before boarding the 40-metre Riva 130 Bellissima, said to be worth around €18 million. The yacht, gifted to Victoria for her 51st birthday, features a jacuzzi, multiple decks, and sleek Italian design - a oating vessel of pure luxury and sophistication.

Named Seven after David’s iconic football number and Harper’s middle name, the yacht has become the family’s private haven at sea. Their voyage began in Puerto Soller, where they dined discreetly at Suculenta, enjoying grilled sea bass and tuna carpaccio paired with local rosé, before sailing on to Port Andratx, Mallorca’s most exclusive harbour town.

Victoria and Harper were later seen browsing boutiques and jewellery shops along Andratx’s marina, stopping for co ees and soaking up the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Dressed in trademark black and oversized sunglasses, Victoria seemed very at home

HELEN FIELDING, the acclaimed British author behind the Bridget Jones series, appeared in Magaluf on Saturday October 4 for the 2025 FLEM Festival. Known for her sharp wit and insight into modern life, Fielding delighted fans eager to meet the mind behind one of contemporary literature’s most beloved characters.

Her blend of humour, honesty, and cultural commentary has rede ned the romantic co-medy novel, making her visit a highlight for Mallorca’s literary community and expats alike.

Organised by independent bookstore Rata Corner in collaboration with INNSiDE by Meliá, FLEM has become one of the island’s most dynamic cultural gatherings,

in the exclusive neighbourhood.

The port - dubbed the Monaco of Mallorca - has become a magnet for celebrities, with Justin and Hailey Bieber among other recent visitors enjoying its luxury villas and waterfront charm this summer.

The trip follows Victoria’s acclaimed

Paris Fashion Week show and comes ahead of her new Net ix docu-series, premiering October 9. For now, Mallorca o ers the Beckhams a rare moment of calm as they enjoy life aboard their superyacht, proving once again that when the famous family travels, they certainly do so in style.

Author spotlight

turning Magaluf into a creative hub for several days. The festival combines books, art, music, and performance in unexpected spaces - from rooftop readings to live podcasts - celebrating storytelling in all its forms.

Fielding was interviewed by Spanish journalist Juliana Canet in a lively session capturing FLEM’s spirit of creativity, curiosity, and connection, with humorous re ections on writing, fame, and the enduring appeal of Bridget Jones.

Messi scores deal

FOOTBALL legend Leo Messi is taking his brand from the pitch to luxury hospitality. His hotel chain, MiM Hotels, has signed a management agreement with Mallorca-based Meliá Hotels International, with six properties set to join The Meliá Collection from November 1.

The hotels, located in Mallorca, Sitges, Sotogrande, Ibiza, Baqueira Beret, and Andorra, combine Messi-inspired design with local charm. Signature features include the Messi Suite and replicas of his Ballon d’Or trophies, autographed by the superstar himself, o ering guests a unique, immersive experience that celebrates both his career and personal style.

The Meliá Collection allows independent hotels to retain their individual character while bene ting from global distribution, loyalty programmes, and operational expertise. Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, CEO and Chairman of Meliá Hotels International, said: “The strength of this new alliance lies in the complementarity of the MiM and The Meliá Collection portfolios.”

From Mediterranean beaches to mountain resorts, each location promises relaxation, adventure, and exclusivity. Guests enjoy personalised service, stylish interiors, and Messi-themed touches, combined with the reliability and reach of a global hotel brand.

SPAIN’S National Day, celebrated on October 12, is one of the country’s most significant holidays. Known as Fiesta Nacional de España or Día de la Hispanidad, it commemorates Christopher Co-lumbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. While Madrid hosts the main parades and ceremonies, Mallorca marks the occasion with cultural activities and a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

For expatriates, it is worth noting that October 12 is a public holiday. Government offices, schools and many businesses close, and supermarkets often open for limited hours. Cafés, bars

Mallorca joins National Day festivities

and restaurants in tourist areas usually remain open, providing a chance to enjoy a leisurely coffee or lunch. In 2025, the holiday falls on a Sunday. Unlike some mainland regions that move it to Monday, the Balearic Islands observe it on the exact date.

In Palma, events include flag-raising ceremonies near Parc de la Mar and Palma Cathedral, tributes to the armed forces, and live music performances. Neighbourhoods such as Santa Catalina and La Lonja feature local fairs and

A landmark reimagined Record summer for hotel revenues

PALMA is moving forward with plans to transform the long-abandoned Lluís Sitjar stadium into a vibrant public hub. The city’s Urban Planning Management has approved an initial modification to the General Urban Planning Plan (PGOU), a key step toward full municipal ownership of the 32,150-square-metre site.

The change introduces a new system that will allow the city hall of Palma to take complete control of the land - the final step after acquiring 88 per cent of property titles. The updated plan also

folk performances, while Alcudia and Santanyi host artisan markets and traditional food stalls.

Across the island, the mood is festive yet calm, with Spanish flags adorning balconies and families gathering for meals or picnics. For expatriates, it is an ideal opportunity to experience Mallorca’s cultural pride, unity and community spirit.

broadens the site’s use to include care facilities alongside the planned sports complex, adds a 131-space car park to ease congestion and enhances mobility and accessibility in the area.

“This modification unlocks the ownership of Lluís Sitjar while improving urban connections and offering citizens a renewed space that combines sport, care, and nature,” said the deputy mayor for Urban Planning.

The redevelopment will also preserve heritage features and expand green areas.

THE Balearic Islands have wrapped up one of their strongest summers on record, with hotel revenues rising 9.7 per cent year-onyear in the third quarter of 2025, according to Exceltur’s latest Tourism Prospects Report.

Menorca led with an 11.5 per cent revenue jump, followed by Mallorca at 9.2 per cent. Mallorca’s hotels achieved an average RevPAR (revenue per available room) of €155.20, while Menorca reached €180.90. Ibiza and Formentera also posted robust growth of 7.5 per cent, surpassing a major milestone with a RevPAR of €207.50 and an average room rate of €240.

Palma maintained its momentum as one of Spain’s top-performing urban destinations, registering a 7.2 per cent revenue rise and ranking third nationwide, behind only Barcelona and Madrid.

Exceltur highlighted significant progress in the ongoing crackdown on illegal tourist rentals.

The introduction of the Digital Single Window for rentals, coupled with intensified enforcement in hotspots such as Ibiza, Palma, Barcelona, and Madrid, is delivering tangible results.

Palma saw unauthorised tourist accommodation drop 17.4 per cent, while Ibiza recorded a 40.9 per cent fall. These reductions mark a major step toward restoring housing balance, protecting residents, and further strengthening the Balearics’ premium, well-regulated tourism model.

New rules ahead

Costs and exemptions

BRITISH pensioners planning trips to Spain have gained a reprieve: from 2026 they will be exempt from new EU entry fees, while younger travellers will face extra charges. Under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), UK passport holders must apply for authorisation before entering Spain and 28 other European destinations. Each application will cost €20, up from the €7 originally proposed.

The fee applies to travellers aged 18-69, while children under 18 and pensioners over 70 are exempt. For families, the cost adds up quickly, with a household of four paying €80 extra per trip.

The ETIAS scheme, repeatedly delayed, is now due to launch in late 2026, with a transition period into 2027. Approval permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day window and remains valid for three years. Most applications should be processed within minutes, though some may be rejected due to invalid documents or security alerts.

Refusals can be appealed. EU officials say the higher fee will fund post-Covid debt and technical upgrades, though it comes as households already face rising travel costs.

ETIAS coincides with the EU’s new Entry/Exit System, set to start in Spain from October. Replacing

passport stamps with biometric checks, it will require fingerprints and photos at border crossings, sparking concern over airport delays.

Read the full article at: https://tinyurl.com/tra vel-fee-exemption

Digital wallet

Spain steps up

SPAIN’S Tax Agency has widened its focus to neobanks, prepaid cards and fintech apps, with more than one million accounts already under review. The move marks one of the largest crackdowns yet on digital banking, as inspectors warn these platforms are becoming havens for tax evasion and money laundering.

Neobanks offer easy sign-ups, low fees and smartphone access, but officials say those same perks make it simpler to move money out of sight. In 2024 alone, Hacienda sent 62 data requests to fintech firms and uncovered 40,000 accounts, nearly 10,000 point-of-sale contracts and more than a million active cards. Investigators believe some are being used to hide undeclared income, e-commerce revenues and crypto transactions.

New reporting rules introduced this year require digital banks to notify Hacienda when spending exceeds €50,000 annually on standard cards or €15,000 on prepaid ones. Reports must include transaction counts, full account holder details and authorised user identities. Alongside this, 42 audits have been launched into individuals classed as high risk, particularly those moving funds into cryptocurrencies. The crackdown forms part of Spain’s 2025 Annual Plan for Tax and Customs Control, following a record €18.9 billion recovered in 2024 anti-fraud operations, up 13 per cent on the year before. For most users, everyday spending is unaffected. The real target is large-scale transfers designed to evade detection.

Repairing the damage Wage balance

Rules on responsibility

SPAIN’S rental law sets out who pays when something breaks, usually depending on whether it is wear and tear or tenant-caused damage. Under Article 21 of the Urban Leases Act, landlords must carry out repairs needed to keep a property

cover the cost. That includes heating, wiring, roofs, windows and plumbing - anything essential to safety and liveability. If hot water fails, a roof leaks or a window will not close in winter, the landlord must act quickly.

Normal wear and

landlords. An oven failing through age, a burst pipe in a wall or a washing-machine hose perishing despite proper use are their responsibility. Delays can even give tenants grounds to terminate a contract.

However, the Civil Code (Articles 1563 and 1564) makes tenants liable for damage they, their household or guests cause. They can avoid blame only by proving otherwise, using evidence such as photos, reports and messages.

To prevent disputes, tenants should report issues immediately in writing, provide access for repairs, and keep receipts if emergencies force them to pay upfront. Essential repairs never justify rent increases.

If either side refuses to cooperate, tenants can end the lease or seek damages. In most cases the rule is straightforward: age or weather damage means the landlord pays; negligence or misuse means the tenant does.

Read the full article at: https://tin yurl.com/landlord-vs-tenant

Tax and pay debate

SPANISH Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz has proposed a rise in the Salario Mínimo Interprofesional (SMI), depending on whether it becomes subject to income tax. If the Ministry of Finance (Hacienda) requires SMI recipients to pay IRPF, Díaz argues the increase must be higher to offset the tax burden, ensuring low-income workers do not lose purchasing power.

Since 2018, Spain’s minimum wage has risen by 61 per cent, from €736 to €1,184 per month in 14 instalments. This forms part of the government’s drive to reduce inequality and improve living standards. Hacienda has not confirmed whether the SMI will be taxed, though it has applied IRPF to comparable incomes before. If introduced, this would reduce the net benefit of any rise, prompting Díaz to stress that wage policy must balance fiscal compliance with fairness. To guide the decision, the Labour Ministry has convened a panel of experts to advise on the increase, considering inflation and possible taxation. The government can approve rises by decree, without parliamentary backing, but employer groups are excluded from the panel and have long opposed higher increases. The last consensus agreement was in January 2020.

Díaz’s proposal highlights the challenge of protecting low earners while maintaining economic responsibility.

Palma a Punt underway

THE fourth phase of Palma’s Palma a Punt cleaning and maintenance programme has begun, targeting 84 neighbourhoods across the city. The launch in Platja de Palma was attended by deputy mayor and Emaya president Llorenç Bauzá de Keizer, Emaya manager Lorenzo Morey and project coordinators.

Running until December 31, this phase will see 47 Emaya workers operating in morning and afternoon shifts. Their duties include graffiti removal, street cleaning with pressurised water, maintenance of waste bins and containers, weed clearance and the collection of abandoned items. The city council has allocated €793,600 for this stage - a 21.5 per cent rise on the previous phase - underlining its growing scale and importance. Teams will service more

than 7,600 bins, 7,100 containers, 1,546 contribution points and over 1.1 million metres of kerbing while tackling vandalism and neglected zones. The operation moves sector by sector for full city coverage, beginning in ses Meravelles, s’Arenal, es Pil·larí, Can Pastilla, s’Aranjassa, Sant Jordi and sa Casa Blanca, before finishing in areas including Pere Garau,

Marquès de la Fontsanta, Foners and Son Fortesa Sud between December 17 and 31. Earlier phases collected 123 tonnes of waste, removed 786 graffiti tags and cleaned nearly three million square metres of streets. The initiative aims to keep Palma’s neighbourhoods cleaner, greener and more pleasant for residents and visitors alike.

Boost for community fitness

cise, ensuring exercises are medically safe and effective. Sessions are held twice weekly for one hour, with ongoing monitoring to track progress and adjust workouts. The approach helps participants improve fitness, build confidence, and maintain an active lifestyle beyond the programme.

The IME emphasises that this expansion underlines its commitment to promoting health, wellness, and active living in Palma. By combining medical guidance, professional supervision, and structured exercise, the B@LES Programme empowers residents to take control of their health.

Showbiz sparkle from Donovan

FANS of fun, frolics, and rock ‘n’ roll are in for a treat this October as The Rocky Horror Show comes to Auditorium Palma de Mallorca. Kicking off Thursday October 16, the show promises a night of mischief, music, and mayhem.

Australian superstar Jason Donovan, famed for his role on Neighbours, takes centre stage in Richard O’Brien’s legendary musical. With a career spanning pop hits, theatre, and television, Donovan brings charisma and energy to this cult classic, transporting audiences into the weird and wonderful world of Rocky Horror.

First performed in 1973, The Rocky Horror Show has delighted more than 35 million theatre-goers world-wide. The story follows squeaky-clean Brad and Janet, whose car breaks down outside a spooky mansion. Inside, they meet the flamboyant Dr Frank-n-Furter, embarking on a night of eccentric characters, wild costumes, and unforgettable adventures. Known for its comedy, camp, rock ‘n’ roll, and audience participation,

the show remains a global phenomenon.

Direct from London’s West End and directed by Christopher Luscombe, this immersive production features live music, iconic numbers like Sweet Transvestite and Damn It Janet, and the legendary Time Warp. Performed in English with subtitles (VOSE), it’s accessible while keeping the mischievous edge fans adore.

Prepare for a night of laughter, music and unforgettable theatrics.

Brunch in style

PERCHED above Cala Fornells, the newly opened Aethos Hotel in Peguera is the latest addition to the chic Aethos group and is fast becoming a favourite among Mallorca’s style set. Its new bottomless brunch has quickly established itself as the island’s Sunday hotspot. Guests are greeted with a lavish buffet that goes beyond the usual fare, featuring trout ceviche, grilled corn, charcuterie boards, Mediterranean salads and artisan breads. A dedicated Cava station and unlimited mimosas or Bloody Marys keep glasses filled for three hours. Each brunch includes a hot main dish, from seafood paella to gourmet smash burgers, all plated with restaurant precision.

The highlight arrives when a server weaves between tables offering fresh oysters, prawns and mini ceviche

pots amid a swirl of dry icean Instagram-ready flourish.

A live DJ builds the mood without overpowering conversation, creating a balance between lounging and celebration.

Design is central to Aethos, with interiors by Astet Studio and architect Beatriz Ballesteros. Natural stone, pale wood and neutral textiles provide a calm backdrop to the seventh-floor terrace, overlooking a sculpted pool,

pine-fringed gardens and the Mediterranean horizon. At €55 per person, including bottomless drinks, a premium buffet and a main course, Aethos Peguera’s brunch delivers exceptional value and style - a truly elevated Mallorcan Sunday experience.

Carrer Mareselva, 2, 07160 Peguera, Calvia https://www.aethos. com/destinations/ mallorca/dining

Palma’s pancake craze

IN the heart of Palma’s Santa Catalina district, Fluffy has become a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike, famous for its cloud-like Japanese pancakes. Wobbly, jiggly, and melt in the mouth, the pancakes are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.

Owned by Polish couple Emilia and Rafał, Fluffy blends Asian-inspired flavours with local Mallorcan produce. Rafał has lived in Mallorca for 20 years, and Emilia for a decade. Their shared love of food and coffee, combined with travels across Japan, inspired them to open the café and bring a taste of Asia to the island.

favourite. “The recipe is our sweet secret,” admits Rafał. “It required a lot of work and research, and we can’t fail to mention our excellent cook, who also brought a lot of heart and help.”

“Our dream was to have our own place,” says Rafał. “The pancakes turned out to be perfect - something familiar, but different.”

Fluffy’s signature Japanese soufflé pancakes are crafted using a secret recipe developed through extensive experimentation. The menu features various toppings, with Lotus Biscoff emerging as a

The café’s modern, cosy ambiance, adorned with collectibles and street culture memorabilia, resonates with a diverse clientele. “The community’s response has been very positive,” says Emilia.

Fluffy is open daily from 9.00am to 4.30pm (closed Tuesdays). Reservations are recommended.

Smooth flying ahead

BARCELONA-EL PRAT

Airport has begun installing new CT scanners in a €39 million upgrade aimed at speeding up security checks. The technology allows passengers to keep laptops and liquids in their hand luggage, removing the need to unpack trays at checkpoints.

Although the 100ml liquid rule still applies, the 3D imaging gives security staff clearer views of bags, reducing queues and delays.

Only a few scanners are operating so far, but all 52 are expected to be in place by early 2027. Airport director Eva Valenzuela described the system as a step forward that will save time while maintaining safety standards.

The airport is also preparing a €700 million expansion of Terminal 1, which will add over 70,000 square metres of space by extending

the glass façade 38 metres and dismantling the unused control tower.

The redesign will increase capacity by 15.5 per cent, with construction due to start in 2028 and finish by 2031.

Officials say major disruption is unlikely, though some minor re-routing inside the terminal may occur. Passengers

will not need to arrive earlier, and new digital screens will display real-time updates to keep queues moving.

Handling over 50 million passengers in 2023, Barcelona joins airports such as Heathrow and Schiphol in adopting CT technology to boost efficiency and improve the travel experience.

Global appeal

SPAIN has once again emerged as one of the world’s most desired places to start a new life. A survey by Remitly, based on more than 4,800 responses, ranks the country in the global top 10.

What sets Spain apart is more than its sun, sangria and sea views. Respondents highlighted a unique blend of quality of life, affordability and a slower, more human rhythm. The Mediterranean diet, rich cultural life and strong sense of community appeal to many, offering a balance many feel is missing in their home countries. Healthcare and education are praised, while retirees enjoy an active, affordable lifestyle.

The country’s popularity has also brought challenges. Housing costs have surged, with rents up 11.5 per cent in 2024

and property prices at their highest in nearly 20 years. Bureaucracy and visa hurdles remain difficult, and salaries are lower than in much of northern Europe.

Despite this, Spain ranks highly across Europe. In Estonia, 10 per cent named it their top choice, while in Belgium, Ireland,

Strawberry train

SPAIN’S iconic ‘Tren de la Fresa’ is back for its autumn season, blending history, countryside charm and nostalgia. After a spring run and a summer pause, the vintage train resumes its route between Madrid and Aranjuez, offering themed rides, musical events and rural adventures that make it a unique weekend escape from the capital.

The train follows the country’s first railway line, inaugurated in 1851, linking Madrid with the royal city of Aranjuez. Carriages from the 1920s to 1960s, with wood-panelled interiors and period details, offer passengers a journey back in time. This season, it runs 12 times between October and November, departing Madrid’s Railway Museum at 10am and returning around 7.45pm. Tickets are

available on trendelafresa.es and sell out quickly.

Experiences include ‘Strawberries with Music’, pairing rides with performances from the Aranjuez Early Music Festival, and ‘Strawberries from the Orchard’, featuring pumpkin-picking, tractor rides and children’s workshops. Other highlights include ‘Royal Strawberries’, with a guided palace visit, ‘Strawberries by the River’ with a Tagus boat trip, and ‘Strawberries with Cream’, a city tour on the Chiquitrén mini train.

Run since 1984 by Renfe, the Madrid Railway Museum and National Heritage, the Strawberry Train is dog-friendly for pets up to 40 kg. With vintage carriages, music and open-air adventures, it remains one of Spain’s most enchanting journey.

Sweden, Portugal and the Netherlands it consistently appeared among the top two. Its appeal lies in simplicity: warm climate, fresh food and a culture centred on family and social life. While it may not offer the highest pay, Spain promises something rarer - a life that feels genuinely lived.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

EU–Mercosur deal

SPAIN’S Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said on September 29 that he expects the EU–Mercosur trade agreement to be ratified by year-end. The deal would remove tariffs on over 90 per cent of exports, though some EU states, including France, remain sceptical.

September’s inflation

SPAIN’S annual inflation rate climbed to 2.9 per cent in September, up from 2.7 per cent in July and August, according to INE data. The rise was driven by higher fuel and electricity prices. A year earlier, inflation was at 1.5 per cent.

Token sterling

UK Finance has launched a pilot for tokenised sterling deposits (GBTD), backed by major banks including Barclays, HSBC, and Santander. Running until mid2026, the project will test faster, safer payments, fraud prevention, and digital asset settlement.

Jaguar Land Rover

THE UK government will back Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) with a £1.5 billion loan guarantee to support its supply chain after a major cyber-attack. Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the move will help safeguard jobs across the West Midlands, Merseyside, and wider UK.

Bank closures

MAJOR UK banks including NatWest, Halifax, Lloyds, and Bank of Scotland will shut 97 branches and 45 mobile services from October. The closures, blamed on the shift to digital banking, add to more than 6,400 branch closures since 2015, consumer group Which? reports.

The annual change in the flash estimate of the CPI stands at in September, two 10ths higher than August. 2.9%

Spain’s student housing

SPAIN has become a hotspot for global investors targeting its under-supplied student housing market, as international admissions soar.

Foreign student numbers have risen 77 per cent in the past decade, creating unprecedented demand for accommodation.

Yet, only 117,000 purpose-built student beds are available, less than a fifth of the 622,000 students in need, according to JLL.

This shortage has fuelled high-profile deals, including Nido Living’s €1.2 billion purchase of Livensa Living, backed by Cana-

da’s CPP Investments.

Major US developers Greystar and Hines are also expanding rapidly in Spain.

Prime yields on student flats in Madrid and Barcelona stand at 4.5 per cent, compared with 3.3 per cent on 10-

Data centre expansion

SPANISH company Submer Technologies SL, a specialist in liquid cooling systems for data centres, has announced its entry into the Indian market with plans to build AI-focused data centres and expand manufacturing.

Founder Daniel Pope confirmed the firm had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Madhya Pradesh government in July to develop up to one gigawatt of data centre capacity. He said India would serve as a hub for Asia, adding that the country could represent 10 per cent of the global data centre market by 2030.

Submer will also set up a manufacturing facility in India, creating around 5,000 mechanical, electrical and plumbing jobs in the coming years.

Executives highlighted India’s young engineering ta-

year Spanish government bonds, CBRE data shows. Lower tuition fees and less restrictive migration policies than in the UK or US have also strengthened Spain’s appeal.

At leading business schools such as IE

and IESE, nine in 10 students come from abroad.

But while premium blocks attract wealthy international students, many locals struggle. Rents often exceed €1,000 a month, double the average Spanish student’s budget. A broader housing deficit of 400,000 homes, worsened by a surge in tourist lets, has intensified pressure.

For expats, modern student complexes with gyms and study spaces offer comfort, but rising costs in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia mean housing may become scarce and costly in the years ahead.

lent pool and the opportunity to build ultra-efficient new infrastructure rather than modernise older facilities. The company aims to deliver projects in as little as six to nine months using modular construction techniques.

Wealthy Brits Money

laundering

SPANISH police arrested five people and charged five others in Ceuta during Operation SMOKE, which uncovered a network tied to online fraud in Spain and Portugal. The group tricked victims into paying for fake tobacco sales online, laundering over €7,000 through money mules who carried cash to Morocco. Investigators have identified 66 victims so far but suspect the real figure is higher. Two alleged ringleaders in Morocco remain at large. The investigation began in December last year.

AFFLUENT UK citizens are regaining confidence in the economy, though sentiment remains well below pre-Budget levels, according to the Saltus Wealth Index Report. The index rose to 64.7 from February’s record low of 58.2, buoyed by stronger markets. However, this is still short of the 67.7 high in 2022. While 66 per cent of respondents are optimistic about the economy, down from 84 per cent a year ago, concerns remain: 78 per cent expect tax rises within 12 months, with income tax, National Insurance and pension relief seen as likely targets. Inflation (58 per cent) and tax policy (46 per cent) top the list of wealth risks.

MICHELIN Spain Portugal has announced three key management appointments to strengthen its industrial strategy. Fran Cardona will lead the Valladolid factory from November 1, while J Bruno Arias will take charge of the Aranda de Duero plant on December 1. From January 1, 2026, Carlos Abril Barber will oversee agricultural tyre production in Valladolid. The company said the changes aim to consolidate operational excellence across its passenger car, truck, and agricultural tyre divisions.

AMAZON customers in Spain can now defer purchases of €60 to €3,000 over four to 40 months using Zinia, Santander’s consumer financing platform. The service, already available in Germany and Austria, marks Zinia’s debut in Spain. Customers can apply directly on Amazon.es by entering a DNI or NIE, with financing approved per purchase rather than through a permanent credit line. The move expands Santander’s consumer finance presence while offering Amazon shoppers more flexible and secure payment options.

UK wine merchants

INDEPENDENT wine merchants in the UK are turning to lesser-known regions and varieties to keep prices competitive amid inflation and higher taxes, according to The Drinks Business.

At a recent London tasting hosted by The Bunch (six top merchants including Haynes Hanson & Clark, Tanners and Corney & Barrow) chair Siobhán Astbury said demand was strong for wines under £20, especially affordable Bordeaux, southern France, and cru Beaujolais. Tanners’ chairman James Tanner noted UK wine is at ‘a crossroads’, as consumers adjust to £20 bottles.

SPAIN has received further recognition from global credit agencies, as Moody’s and Fitch upgraded its sovereign rating, following a similar move by S&P in recent weeks. Moody’s raised Spain from Baa1 to A3 with a stable outlook, while Fitch upgraded from A- to A. Both cited balanced growth, labour market recovery and a stronger banking industry as key factors. The upgrades come as GDP growth forecasts for 2025 are revised upwards to 2.6-2.7 per cent.

3I Group 4.427,00 4.445,40 4.376,00 148,31K

Group 3.292,0 3.292,0 3.246,7 18,94K Airtel Africa 238,00 239,60 236,00 199,4K Anglo American 2.816,2 2.821,0 2.793,0 152,78K Antofagasta 2.707,00 2.745,00 2.706,00 57,67K Ashtead Group 5.036,0 5.076,0 5.020,0 65,42K Associated British Foods 2.092,0 2.095,0 2.085,0 29,44K

12.736,0 12.776,0 12.687,0 234,42K Auto Trader Group Plc 785,40 786,08 780,60 96,13K Aviva 676,20 679,00 673,00 409,03K

B&M European Value Retail SA 256,60 259,10 255,80 558,42K BAE Systems 2.030,00 2.056,66 2.025,00 302,03K

378,80 385,45 378,70 4,53M Barratt Redrow 392,70 394,60 391,00 296,43K

Beazley 900,00 902,00 895,00 153,29K Berkeley 3.902,0 3.917,0 3.888,0 15,64K

BP 428,95 431,00 427,00 3,24M British American Tobacco 3.824,0 3.825,0 3.798,9 189,01K BT Group 183,65 185,15 182,95 1,09M

2.451,4 2.488,0 2.450,0 59,7K

168,90 170,00 168,20 712,6K

3.280,0 3.308,0 3.277,0 88,73K

2.542,00 2.547,00 2.531,00 64,67K

4.919,9 4.942,0 4.900,0 13,03K

BUSINESS

EXTRA

UK hotels

UK hotel investment hit £1.04 billion in Q3 2025, up 28 per cent year-on-year, according to Savills. Single asset deals drove 92 per cent of activity, with London leading at £697 million. Regional markets also surged in Scotland, the South West, and West Midlands.

Spain to Liverpool

DUTCH carrier WEC Lines has upgraded its Spain-UK service, now called NWC Spain, adding a second vessel and ports including Gijón and Antwerp. The weekly route links Bilbao and Gijón to Liverpool and Dublin, offering faster, more reliable alternatives to road transport.

Gibraltar EES delays

SPAIN will begin rolling out the EU’s new Entry/ Exit System (EES) on October 12, but the first phase will only affect airports, meaning there will be no immediate changes at the Gibraltar–La Línea border.

The EES will replace passport stamping with biometric registration for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area. It will collect fingerprints, facial images and travel details to improve security and monitor overstays.

Spain’s Ministry of the Interior confirmed

UK-BASED Marshmallow has entered an exclusive partnership with Evolution Funding to offer motor finance to newcomers and migrants who often lack the credit history required by traditional lenders.

The deal marks Marshmallow’s first move beyond insurance since raising $90 million (€76.9 million) in April 2025. By integrating its risk models with Evolution’s distribution platform, the partnership will allow dealers to approve customers typi-

UK newcomers

cally excluded from secured car finance.

Co-founder Oliver Kent-Braham said the initiative aims to support migrants locked out of fair financial services. Evolution CEO Lee Streets said the collaboration combines ‘credit models with distribution and insight’ to expand inclusive lending.

a three-stage rollout: first airports, then land borders such as Gibraltar, and finally maritime crossings. The EU has set April 10, 2026, as the final deadline for full implementation.

For now, interim arrangements continue. Holders of Gibraltar’s red ID cards can cross into Spain without passport stamps, while EU nationals may still enter Gibraltar with ID cards.

Negotiations on a UKEU Gibraltar treaty are advancing, with officials hoping to finalise it before the EES applies at land borders. Senior EU representative Clara Alberola described the target as ‘very ambitious’ but said the text is ‘well advanced’.

For cross-border workers and expats, this delay offers temporary relief from queues and new checks.

EIB & ACCIONA

THE European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted Madrid-based ACCIONA €120 million to drive research, innovation and digitalisation in infrastructure, renewables, and water treatment. The funding, part of a €150 million package, will support AI, automation, decarbonisation and IoT projects, aligning with EU goals on climate action and tech.

SPAIN’S hotel market saw €2.1 billion in investments in H1 2025, its third-strongest first half ever, led by domestic buyers (66 per cent). Highlights included the €430m Mare Nostrum Resort deal in Tenerife. Strong demand, stable yields, and limited supply pushed RevPAR up 6.9 per cent, reinforcing Spain’s global investor appeal.

Perhaps I’m too old

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I’VE heard some jaw dropping judgements from a number of bewigged judgemental Wallies over the years, but this week’s decision by one such incompetent truly took the whole tin. Emma Thompson, a so-called ‘gambling addictive accountant’, stole £350,000 from her employers over the space of 12 months.

Judge Isobel Newman, who sentenced the woman at Southwark Crown Court to an almost unbelievably inadequate two-year suspended sentence, said in defence of her decision, that the accountant was ‘not the general stu of which the prison population is made’. ‘Er Wot!? She’s a crook who pleaded guilty to stealing 350 grand from her employers! That’s exactly the type of ‘stu ’ that a large portion of the prison population do in fact consist of. The judge also remarked, that she had actually considered giving Thompson a sentence of three years and four months, before being

persuaded that she was ‘un t for prison’! You really couldn’t make it up.

Not quite au fait with this judge’s idea of ‘prison tness’, I can only assume that if this had been a young, able bodied, working-class male, he would have had far more sentencing ‘suitability’ than a highly educated female accountant. Give us a break. This whole sorry debacle is nothing more than a biased, sexist, utter travesty of justice. Personally, I think this delusional judge should be immediately disbarred, or whatever they do with members of this pathetic bunch of generally out of touch bewigged hierarchy, who, in my opinion should all be put out to grass with the rest of their cuckoo’s nest compatriots.

Personally, I think they should be replaced by computers. One, highly sophisticated machine into which are fed all the facts of a case. Defence, prosecution, witness statements, mitigation, evidence etc, etc. Whatever verdict it spits out couldn’t be as ludicrous and biased as a some of the unbelievable rubbish we have to put up with from most of these ponti cating jumped up dinosaurs, most of whom

consider themselves vastly superior to us mere mortal minions. Well, I’ll give ‘em all one thing. Many of them do appear to have emanated from a di erent planet, and that’s fer sure.

I don’t know about you, but I am 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 sti upper lip, non-demonstrative occasion, now sees batsmen scurrying up to each other like children and ‘ sting’ after a particularly good shot. Doubles at tennis is another example of this absurd habit, in fact these partners actually still st each other when actually losing a point. All this along with the utterly ridiculous orgasmic grunts of the tennis brigade just about sums up the attitude of a whole number of our modern self-promoting competitors. Ah well, leave the youngsters alone. Perhaps I’m merely getting too old. Cest La Vie. Have a good week, and whatever ya do always -

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.

Spain in October

SPAIN in October o ers a calmer, more authentic travel experience, making it one of the best months to visit. With summer crowds gone and the heatwave over, cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla, Valencia and Granada reveal a softer side. Travellers can stroll through iconic neighbourhoods, enjoy festivals, and soak up golden autumn light without the chaos of peak season. For many Brits looking for an autumn escape, October strikes the perfect balance: warm days, lively nights and more a ordable prices.

Barcelona becomes intimate, with quieter beaches and cooler streets. The Gothic Quarter can nally be explored at leisure, balconies over owing with owers in view.

Madrid glows in autumn hues, Retiro Park turning golden while its nightlife remains electric. Enjoying tapas-lled afternoons in La Latina set the tone before the city’s Autumn Festival of theatre, dance and music.

Sevilla rewards visitors with perfect mid-20s weather, making landmarks like the Alcázar and Giralda a joy to explore. Flamenco thrives in hidden bars, paired with tapas favourites such as jamón and honey-drizzled aubergines.

Valencia shines with 23-degree sunshine, o ering both beach days and cultural highlights such as the City of Arts and Sciences.

Granada transforms into an autumn painting, the Alhambra glowing pink at sunset and framed by red and gold foliage.

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Monster: The Ed Gein Story

NETFLIX’S hit crime and biographical series, Monster returned in October with its third instalment, this time following the chilling story of Ed Gein, otherwise known as the Butcher of Plain eld. Set in the atmospheric transition between the 1940s and 1950s, the ominous series follows the story of Ed Gein, infamous suspected serial killer and body snatcher who inspired horror works including Psycho and Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Though the acting has been acclaimed and the immersive worldbuilding impeccable, the narrative can be unfocused and sloppy at times.

Billionaire’s Bunker

WHEN a group of billionaires trade their status and power for shelter in a luxury bunker, whirling chaos, an old family feud, and unprecedented global conflict ensues. Netflix’s Billionaire’s Bunker is quickly making its way to the top of the popularity lists for the streaming service, though it has been chided for its high-concept dystopia and sometimes-silly plot points. Notwithstanding, the series’ dramatic

Characters fighting in Netflix’s dystopian drama, Billionaire’s Bunker.

twists and turns, as well as its fast pace serve as a perfect autumn watch to be engrossed by and not think too hard about.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Adios carriage rides

MALAGA Council has banned horse and carriage tourist rides, effective October 6, retiring the final 25 licences. This ends a service that peaked at 55 carriages in 2018, with operations originally set to continue until 2035 under a 2015 ordinance.

The phase-out, announced by Mayor Francisco de la Torre in January’s State of the City Debate, prioritises animal welfare, public safety, and urban hygiene.

Operators receive €125,380 per licence in compensation, based on a February valuation by R&L Auditores - totalling more than €3 million for the last 25. Earlier, 30 licences were voluntarily redeemed between 2016 and 2020.

In a video message, the mayor stated: “We’ve acted for the animals’ well-being and safety. Licence holders are compensated to end this early, and Malaga now offers sustainable tours, like strolling our streets.”

Axarquia Finding their place

TWO years after the four-star Urban Beach Hotel in El Morche (Torrox) was converted into a migrant reception centre, the story is less about conflict and more about integration.

Since October 2023, some 1,600 people, mainly young men from Senegal, Mali, and Somalia, have passed through its doors.

The Red Cross runs the centre, offering language classes, cultural orientation, and job training. Out of the 362 people currently living there, more than 160 already have jobs, mostly in the region’s agriculture sector. “There’s a lot of demand from local fruit and vegetable companies,” explains provincial coordinator Samuel Linares.

Despite political noise and some initial criticism from Torrox’s town hall, the programme has unfolded without incident. Residents have watched newcomers settle into routines, work, and community life. For many of the men, this is the first step toward legal stability and a safer future.

Costa Blanca North

Town transformed

ELS POBLETS burst into colour and creativity as Persianes amb Art took over the town. Murals, installations, exhibitions, live music and interactive workshops transformed the area into a vibrant open-air gallery, where traditional Mediterranean shutters became canvases celebrating the region’s artistic spirit.

Persianes amb Art was created to establish an annual cultural event using art as a tool for social transformation. Each year, the initiative brings together artists from the Balearic Islands and the Valencian Community, encouraging cultural exchange and building bridges across Mediterranean communities.

Now in its third edition, the festival has reached new heights, confirming its status as one of the Costa Blanca’s must-see events. A total of 25 artists have taken part this year, bringing fresh life to Carrer Major after previous editions lit up Plaça del Consell and Sant Josep.

Costa Blanca South Street food fiesta

FROM October 8 to 12, Torrevieja is hosting their fifth annual Street Food Market in Parque de Las Naciones.

Organised by the town hall of Torrevieja Comercio y Hostelería, the market is expected to be an event full of life with a bustling, retro-vibe atmosphere full of vintage food trucks (imagine old Volkswagen Vans), serving a variety of gastronomy from classic Spanish tapas to American burgers, and market stands selling arts and crafts and lots of other fun goodies.

The family-friendly event will have children’s activities to get people of all ages involved, and there is also set to be numerous different bands and DJs performing throughout the week. Guests can expect to see popular tribute bands covering legendary artists such U2, Queen, and The Rolling Stones.

The market will run from October 8 to 12.

Almeria David in the desert

FAMED Spanish singer-songwriter and actor, David Bisbal, along with his family, recently enjoyed a holiday at the Desert Springs Resort in none other than the vibrant Almeria town of Vera. The artist, accompanied by wife Rosanna Zanetti and their children, enjoyed a luxurious holiday in the internationally-acclaimed hotel, with its tranquil views, proximity to the coast, and of course, the stunning golf course for which the resort receives unending attention. At the resort, David and his family relaxed in the unique landscape of the resort. “I was living a real dream with my family at Desert Springs,” said David, expressing the great tranquility at the resort.

Almeria-born talent David Bisbal originally skyrocketed to fame when he appeared on reality television show Operación Triunfo. Since then, the 46-year-old entertainer has had a successful career as a singer.

Costa Calida Ouigo expands

OUIGO will add a new daily high-speed train between Murcia and Madrid starting December 14. The extra service will leave Murcia’s El Carmen station at 6.35am, while trains heading back from Madrid’s Chamartín station will depart at 6.45pm. This new route joins the two existing daily services. Currently, trains leave Murcia at 12.39pm. and 8.30pm, and depart Madrid at 8.15am and 4.15pm. With the additional service, Ouigo will operate six trips daily between Murcia and Madrid, three in each direction. All trains will stop in Elche and Albacete, and the new December services will also stop in Alicante.

Tickets for the new routes go on sale Thursday, October 9, from 10.00am. Fares start from just €9. Children aged four to 13 pay €7, while children up to three years travel free if seated on an adult’s lap without taking a separate seat. Each week, Ouigo offers around 14,000 seats in the Murcia region.

Plan ahead to find pet-sitters

IF you are looking for house-sitters, it’s best practice to plan ahead. Why? Because the most experienced house and pet-sitters get booked up, naturally being asked to return by happy homeowners who have benefited before. All those people who know how well house-sitting works, plan ahead. It means publishing your requirements well ahead of a trip. Post the advert with approximate dates. You’ll get the best choice of applicants. Planning a trip in 2026? Join today!

Fair exchange

Remember that house-sitters move in to care for your pets and home for free. In exchange you offer free accommodation and perhaps a welcome meal. They in turn will keep you up to date with how home and pets are doing while you travel.

We’d love to help you.

Lamia Walker - Founder

Get in touch +44 (0) 7772 142742

Rated on Trustpilot – 4.8 / 5

Deb and Simon plan their housesitting trips months in advance.

Excellent Fantastic Service

As a homeowner, I was initially trepidatious about having virtual strangers in my home to care for my animals, but as many pet owners know, if you want to travel, you need someone to look after your home and pets. I was lucky to have chanced upon HouseSit Match. Rather than being owned by a corporate conglomerate or hedge-fund, it’s privately run and

How do you join?

that shows in the contact Lamia has with each person, the care she takes with background checks, her quick responses and excellent guidance. I’ve now had four couples in my home to look after my animals and each one has been a fantastic fit. They are all genuine animal lovers, curious travellers, respectful homeowners and great communicators. With some, their glowing reviews tell the story, so there’s nothing left for me to ask. With others, we start talking about world travels and by the time they arrive, it feels like an old friend has come to stay. I think it comes down to Lamia’s personal attention with both pet sitter and homeowner, and the fact that no one is reduced to a number as can happen with huge sites. Here, each ‘match’ is truly a match between homeowners and pet/travel lovers. I’m tremendously happy I found HouseSitMatch and would recommend without hesitation. Michelle Payer, home and pet owner, Spain

Register online via our website Housesitmatch.com

Old dog, new tricks

MANY dog owners assume that training is only for puppies, but older dogs can learn new skills too.

In fact, engaging your senior dog in training offers both mental stimulation and a stronger bond between pet and owner.

Older dogs may have slower reflexes or limited mobility, so it’s important to adapt training techniques to their abilities. Short, frequent sessions of five to 10 minutes work best, with plenty of positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, or gentle petting. Patience is key - progress may be slower, but consistent encouragement helps older dogs succeed.

Training isn’t just about tricks like ‘sit’ or ‘shake’. Teaching practical skills, such as navigating stairs safely, responding to basic commands, or walking politely on a lead, improves daily life for both dog and owner. Mental exercises, like puzzle toys or scent games, also help keep cognitive function sharp, reducing the risk of age-related decline.

Remember, older dogs thrive on routine and positive interactions. Training strengthens your relationship, boosts confidence, and provides enrichment that

Credit: AntonMaltsev / Shutterstock

Curious cat quirks

CAT owners are all too familiar with quirky, baffling behaviours - knocking items off shelves, staring into corners, or zooming across the house at 3am. While these antics may seem random, there’s often a logical explanation behind the strangeness. One common oddity is the ‘midnight crazies’, when cats suddenly dash around. Experts say this is linked to their natural hunting instincts, triggered by bursts of energy that build up during quieter times of the day. Knocking objects off tables or shelves can also be instinctual: cats test the stability of objects and practise their paw-eye coordination, all part of their predatory behaviour.

Cats may also stare at

walls or empty spaces, a behaviour that mystifies many owners. This is usually because they detect tiny movements or sounds imperceptible to humans, such as insects or shifting shadows. Kneading with their paws, often seen on blankets or laps, harks back to kittenhood, when they stimulated their mother’s milk flow. Understanding these behaviours can help owners respond appropriately and enrich their cat’s environment. Providing toys, climbing spaces, and interactive playtime channels their energy safely and strengthens the human-cat bond. Even the strangest quirks are part of what makes cats endlessly fascinating - and endlessly lovable.

enhances quality of life. No matter their age, dogs can always enjoy learning something new - and you can enjoy watching them shine.

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Skoda celebrates 130 years with Laurin & Klement

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

THIS year is Skoda’s 130th year and since 1995, the company’s high specification cars have borne the Laurin & Klement name. L&K really formed the basis of Skoda today and the story began back in 1925 as the Mladá Boleslav-based company Laurin & Klement was celebrating its 30th anniversary and 20 years of automobile production, it joined forces with the Škoda industrial and armaments group. Under the Škoda brand, an ambitious investment programme, introducing assembly line production, transferring cutting-edge technologies and rolling out a new wave of models began to transform the company’s fortunes.

The history of the Pilsen-based engineering company dates back to 1859, and 10 years later it was acquired by engineer Emil Škoda. Under his leadership, and carrying his name, the company grew into the largest industrial enterprise in Austria-Hungary and even collaborated with the carmaker Laurin & Klement.

In the 1920s, both companies faced economic difficulties in the wake of

the First World War and the collapse of traditional markets. In 1924, a devastating fire further damaged the L&K factory in Mladá Boleslav. Václav Laurin and Václav Klement therefore decided to seek a strong strategic partner.

At that time, L&K employed 1,125 people, while Škoda Plzeň had more than 30,000 employees. However, its automotive output was limited, focusing mainly on the licensed production of British Sentinel steam lorries and Hispano-Suiza luxury cars. Unlike

merger with Škoda Plzeň guaranteed the continuation of independent automotive development and production in Mladá Boleslav.

On July 20, 1925, the general meetings of both companies approved the

Visor mirror fines

A QUICK glance in your car’s sun visor mirror might seem harmless, but Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, is warning drivers it could cost them €200 and two licence points. The visor itself is safe to use for blocking glare, but the small mirror inside has become a hidden trap. Officials say too many drivers flip it open while driving or even when stopped at red lights, creating a serious distraction. According to the DGT, around 5 per cent of accidents in Spain are linked to moments like this, when a driver’s eyes stray from the road.

The penalty is clear: use the visor mirror while in traffic and you risk a €200 fine plus two points off your licence. This places it in the same risk category as eating, scrolling a phone or adjusting a sat-nav on

the move. Road safety experts stress that even two seconds of distraction at 50 km/h means travelling nearly 30 metres without paying attention - more than the length of a pedestrian crossing. That gap can be the difference be-

tween safety and a collision.

The DGT’s advice is simple: if you need to check your face, fix your hair or apply make-up, pull over first. Park safely in a car park, a service station or a quiet street.

merger, with shares exchanged at a ratio of 2:1 (L&K/Škoda). The decisive date came on September 12, 1925, when the Ministry of the Interior granted its approval. The Mladá Boleslav carmaker emerged from the merger significantly stronger - a resilience soon put to the test by the looming 1930s global economic crisis.

Although Laurin & Klement was officially taken off the Commercial Register that marked it as an independent manufacturer, the rights to the legendary brand –including its iconic Art Nouveau logo - remain with Škoda. Customers find it on Škoda’s highest trim levels, a tradition that began in 1995 with the Škoda Felicia.

The numbers tell the story: a century ago, 1,800 employees produced 833 cars. In 1991, 16,974 Škoda staff built 172,074 cars. Last year, Škoda, with a global workforce of around 40,000 they built more than 926,000 vehicles.

Spain scooter insurance

FROM January 2, 2026, riding an e-scooter or e-bike in Spain without insurance will be illegal. A new law published in the BOE makes civil liability insurance mandatory for many privately owned scooters and e-bikes. The rules will not affect rental scooters, since companies already hold insurance, but owners of more powerful or faster models must now prepare for extra costs and paperwork.

The visor was never designed as a dressing table, they remind drivers, but purely as protection against sunlight. By resisting the urge to use it as a mirror while moving, you avoid fines and reduce the risk of accidents.

Insurance is required if your scooter exceeds 25 km/h, weighs over 25 kg and can top 14 km/h, or if your e-bike’s motor assistance pushes it beyond 25 km/h.

High-powered pedal vehicles over 45 km/h and those with trailers or semi-trailers also fall

under the new law.

Riders will need to hold civil liability insurance similar to car and motorbike owners.

Exceptions apply for deregistered vehicles, small trailers under 750 kg, and vehicles being built, tested or transported, though strict minimum cover is set for goods: €6.45 million for personal injury and €1.3 million for property damage per accident.

The law officially takes effect in January 2026, but includes a six-month grace period until July 2026 for vehicles newly classified as ‘motor vehicles’.

Riders won’t be fined during this time, but any accident costs paid by the Insurance Compensation Consortium will be recovered from the rider.

Women’s tennis

THE inaugural Vanda Pharmaceuticals Mallorca Women’s Championships kicked off on Saturday October 4, marking the return of professional women’s tennis to the island after a six-year hiatus. Held at the Mallorca Country Club, the tournament runs until October 12, featuring a 32-player singles draw and eight doubles teams, competing for $115,000 in prize money. Matches begin daily at 10am on Centre Court.

Opening day saw a buzzing atmosphere, with fans enjoying competitive action while children explored a dedicated activity zone. On court, Carole Monnet (FRA) dominated Maxine Kammerer (GER) 6-0, 6-0, Aneta Kucmova (CZE) overcame Tea Kovacevic (BIH) 6-2, 6-4, and Teodora Kostovic (SRB) beat local wildcard Mireia Sagristà Bermejo 6-3, 6-1. Yvonne Cavallé-Reimers

(ESP) staged a thrilling second-set comeback but fell to Dalila Spiteri (ITA) 6-0, 7-5.

Other highlights included Ekaterina Kazionova (RUS) defeating Min Liu (CHN) 6-0, 6-1, and Yelyzaveta Kotliar (UKR) overcoming Tessa Johanna Brockmann (GER) 6-3, 6-1.

Sunday’s qualifying rounds determined the final four main-draw players: Mina Hodzic (GER),

Dalila Spiteri (ITA), Carole Monnet (FRA), and Teodora Kostovic (SRB).

Tennis legend Gabriela Sabatini, former world No. 3 and 1990 US Open champion, serves as tournament ambassador, praising the return of women’s tennis to Mallorca’s stunning setting. With a mix of rising stars and seasoned pros, the championships promise a week of high-level competition.