BEACH safety just improved with a fresh idea in Axarquia.
Velez-Malaga launched some free ID wristbands for kids. These simple but effective bracelets are a new way to make families feel secure while enjoying the local coast.
Parents can pick up the wristbands at any beach lifeguard station. Each one has space to write the child’s name and a contact phone number, making it easy to reunite lost kids with their families quickly.
“We want to speed up response times if a child goes missing,” local officials explained. “These wristbands add an extra layer of protection on top of drone surveillance and lifeguard patrols.”
Smart solutions Cave campaign
The bracelet method is already gaining traction for
NERJA has officially joined the joint bid to have Malaga’s Paleolithic Decorated Caves recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The town council voted in favour of including Nerja Cave alongside 11 other prehistoric sites across eight municipalities, including Antequera, Marbella, and Malaga.
This international recognition would be a major milestone for the landmark. It would boost the historical and cultural value of Nerja cave while also supporting its conservation, education, and tourism.
One of Spain’s most visited natural landmarks, Nerja Cave welcomed
its practical approach and low fuss. Lifeguards say the bracelets help them act faster and keep children safe, giving parents peace of mind while they enjoy the sun.
If you’re heading to Velez-Malaga’s beaches this summer, don’t forget to ask for a wristband. It’s free and could make all the difference.
over 530,000 visitors in 2024, thanks to modernisation, digital strategies and some new attractions. In addition,
500 jobs open
TROPS, the Velez-Malaga cooperative and Europe’s top mango and avocado distributor, is looking for new employees. The company, one of the biggest in Axarquia, is preparing for a bumper mango season and needs 500 extra hands to make it happen.
Trops is looking for packers, line supervisors, forklift drivers, and machinery operators to join its production team in Velez-Malaga. The upcoming harvest is expected to beat the last two years, thanks to generous rains over autumn, winter, and spring.
Recruitment has already begun, with Trops calling for applicants via its official social media channels and website. They’re looking for professionals from different sectors who can bring their skills to this year’s mango campaign. Experience in fruit packing, line management, food quality, or forklift handling is preferred, but not essential. “If you have training and experience, great. If you come from another sector, we’ll still consider your application,” the company said.
this year, Nerja Cave celebrated a major milestone: 20 million visitors since opening in 1960.
Axarquia • No. 2093 • 14 - 20 Aug 2025
Trops is looking for employees.
Credit: Trops Facebook page
Siblings playing on the beach.
Nerja Cave.
Credit: Anatolii Mikhailov/Shutterstock
THE grape harvest has officially kicked off in Malaga Province, with the first cuts taking place in the sun-drenched slopes of the Axarquia and the coastal vineyards of Manilva. n Axarquia, it’s the emblematic Moscatel grape leading the way. Moscatel is one of the earliest to ripen and a true symbol of the Axarquia region’s wine identity.
Grape harvest begins
This year’s yield is smaller, but the grapes have gained good weight. In other words, there will be a significantly smaller quantity, but also better quality than ever.
The truth is that it hasn’t been an easy season.
The fungal disease mildew has hit hard in some vineyards, with losses estimated at up to 80 per cent in the worst-affected plots.
The grape harvest in Axarquia is a precious tradition. It is carried out mainly by hand, with grape clusters
cut and transported in boxes on mules. A ritual deeply rooted in the area, it’s considered one of the most artisanal and traditional harvests in Europe.
The process is quite meticulous and the goal was and will always be this: to preserve the quality of the grapes from collection to their arrival at the winery.
Million-euro upgrade
BENAJARAFE is finally getting the upgrades its residents have been demanding for years.
Velez-Malaga’s town hall has announced more than €1.2 million in improvements for several neighbourhoods, tackling long-standing issues with lighting, sanitation, and road surfaces.
The works will cover Las Biznagas, La Esperanza, Paraiso del Sol, Condemar, and Avenida Andalucia.
Mayor Jesús Lupiáñez, joined by Infrastructure
councillor Jesús María Claros, met with locals in the La Sirena residential area to share updates, including the start of a long-awaited electrical overhaul by energy company Endesa.
For years, residents have endured frustrating power cuts. Now, Lupiáñez says fixing these problems is a priority. “We are not going to stop. Benajarafe has many needs that have built up over time, and we are determined to turn them into good news.”
The first big project, in
Las Biznagas, will soon go out to tender with a budget of just over €1 million. Plans include new paving and asphalt, upgraded street lighting, clearing of public spaces, fresh signage, repaired manholes, safer railings, greener areas, and even a new electrical transformer. Meanwhile, the old N-340 road running through Benajarafe is getting a facelift. Fresh markings and new paint aim to improve safety and visibility on one of Velez-Malaga’s busiest coastal routes.
Benajarafe.
Spain’s safety net
Non-contributory pension aid
MANY assume Spanish state pensions are only for those with long contribution histories - but Spain’s non-contributory pension offers vital support for anyone aged 65 or over who hasn’t met the 15-year minimum. Whether due to informal work, caring duties, or illness, eligible individuals can receive nearly €8,000 a year, paid in 14 instalments - even without ever contributing to the system. The aim is to prevent poverty in old age and support those otherwise left behind.
To qualify, applicants must have lived legally in Spain for at least 10 years between age 16 and retirement, including the two years before applying. Annual income must be under €7,905.80 in 2025, though this threshold increases for larger households - up to €13,439.86 for two people or €18,973.92 for three, with higher limits for relatives living together.
Pension amounts are reviewed yearly. Recipients must declare income annually, and payments may be reduced or stopped if income rises above the limit. As long as eligibility continues, so do the payments. This is not a loophole, but a key support for those without contributions, including homemakers and the long-term unemployed. Applications can be made online or at Social Security offices, with proof of age, residence, and income.
For many, it’s the difference between hardship and dignity in old age.
SPAIN’S troubled rental market could soon become easier to navigate, thanks to a new government-backed platform aimed at reducing stress, uncertainty and price volatility in house-hunting. This summer, the Ministry of Housing will launch a public rental portal to compete with private sites such as Idealista and Fotocasa, but focused solely on a ordable homes. Unlike the current system, where renters face unanswered messages and sudden price hikes, the new site promises greater transparency. Users will be able to browse listings with photos, check criteria in advance and register interest online. Contracts, paperwork and even maintenance requests will be managed digitally.
Bank holiday weekend
Assumption is observed across all of Spain
ON Friday, August 15, Spain will celebrate the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a significant Catholic holiday, creating a long weekend known as the ‘puente de agosto’, or ‘August bridge’. The extended break, falling on a Friday, will bring heavy traffic on Thurs-
day and Sunday as countless Spaniards hit the roads to make the most of the holiday. As a non-transferable national holiday, the Assumption is observed across all of Spain. In some towns, like La Nucia in Alicante, it coincides with local
holidays, extending the break to four days, as August 18 is a Monday. Public offices, including councils and health centres, will close, as will banks and many local shops. Coastal supermarkets and shopping centres, however, often remain open to serve tourists, though Mercadona typically adheres to the holiday schedule. Some coastal Mercadona stores may open until 3pm, while inland locations generally close to give employees a rest day. While some towns mark the occasion with processions and masses, many Spaniards skip religious observances, preferring beach outings instead. In 2025, Spain will observe four more national holidays: National Day on October 12 (observed October 13), All Saints’ Day on November 1, Constitution Day on December 6, and Christmas on December 25. The Assumption remains a beloved tradition, blending faith with a mid-summer escape.
The rst properties will come from Sareb, the ‘bad bank’ created after the nancial crisis, with 13,000 homes in regions including Catalonia, the Basque Country and Galicia. The platform is expected to expand to 40,000 properties as more state-owned and new-build ats are added. Rents will be capped at 30 per cent of the average local wage to prevent households spending disproportionate amounts on housing.
Questions remain over how quickly stock will grow, whether eligibility rules will be straightforward and whether the initiative can make a dent in Spain’s overheated rental market. If successful, it could provide both relief for renters and serious competition for private portals.
Crisp cash only
Bank targets old notes
SPAIN is withdrawing thousands of worn €10, €20 and €50 notes as the Bank of Spain launches a major e ort to remove old, faded and torn cash from circulation. The goal is not a new design, but to ensure notes remain clean, intact and reliable - similar to a wardrobe refresh. Damaged notes are quietly replaced behind the scenes, although more shopkeepers may begin refusing visibly tattered ones. Despite the rise of cards and mobile payments, nearly 60 per cent of Spaniards - and almost 80 per cent of those over 65 - still rely on physical cash for everyday spending. If you come across a dog-eared €10 or faded €20, you don’t have to keep it. Most banks, including all Bank of Spain branches, will exchange worn notes or credit your account, provided more than half the note is intact and it has not been deliberately damaged. However, if a note is ink-stained by an anti-theft device or shows signs of tampering, it may be rejected - unless you can prove you received it innocently. Deliberately defaced or contaminated notes may even require inspection for safety reasons.
Worn-out €10, €20 and €50 notes will soon vanish from circulation in Spain, with the Bank of Spain calling for only crisp, high-quality cash to remain in your wallet.
THE Nerja town hall has approved plans for a sleek, accessible performance space just south of Plaza Fabrica de los Cangrejos (next to the Torrecilla promenade and the Fuente de Europa).
The project is backed by €271,575 in funding from the EU’s NextGeneration programme under the ‘Nerja Sostenible’ tourism plan. It will also revitalise one of the town’s most visited areas. The initiative is a key part of the makeover for La Torrecilla and the existing Plaza amphitheatre.
New coastal culture hub
Mayor José Alberto Armijo says the space will be “modern, accessible, and perfect for cultural and leisure events with a view of the Mediterranean.”
It’s designed to blend into its surroundings while offering locals and visitors an upgraded venue for concerts, theatre, and community gatherings.
The amphitheatre will be fully open to the sea breeze, built
with integration into the coastal setting in mind. “It will become a cultural landmark, expanding Nerja’s entertainment offer and creating a new reason for people to visit all year round,” said Culture and Tourism councillor Ana María Muñoz.
From flamenco nights to openair cinema, the possibilities are wide open. With construction approved, the countdown is on for a venue that will bring music, art, and community life closer to the sea than ever before.
Frames of India Park to get splash
stroll’ and more ‘summer
The town is commissioning plans for two bold additions: a natural-style bathing area and a brand-new open-air auditorium. Forget a standard public pool, the vision is for a lagoon-like space, designed to blend into the park’s landscape while giving locals a place to cool off without leaving town.
If it all goes to plan, families could be swimming
under the sun with grass under their feet instead of concrete.
The open-air stage will be designed for cultural events. From summer concerts and theatre to kids’ shows and community events, it’s meant to turn the park into an all-year entertainment hub.
This revamp isn’t just about aesthetics, it tackles practical issues too, including the park’s current pond troubles (the duck population boom). The redesign aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more functional environment, while finding new homes for the birds.
Town officials say the project will make the park more accessible, more useful, and way more fun. In their words, it’s about creating a ‘living, welcoming town’ where people can chill, play, and make memories (and in a few summers, maybe even swim).
It’s all happening thanks to the opening of Sentir La India, a striking photo exhibition by local photographer Rafa Bue-
no. It’s a good mix of culture, summer atmosphere and empathy.
Through his lens, Bueno captures the colours, faces and daily rhythms of rural India, moments he experienced first-hand during his travels there.
The inauguration took place last week, with Mayor Francisco Salado cutting the ribbon alongside Sports councillor Antonio José Martín, Brazadas Solidarias president Christian Jongeneel, and councillors Pepi Carnero, Belén Gutiérrez, and Lola Ramos.
The exhibition is open until August 22.
With Sentir La India, visitors are reminded that the world is wide and kind of limitless. And sometimes the biggest journeys don’t need a boarding pass, just a good photograph.
THE courtyard of Rincon de la Victoria’s town hall has turned into a window to the opposite side of the world.
BIG things are about to happen at Maria Zambrano Park in Velez-Malaga.
The town’s favourite green lung is set for a serious change: less ‘quiet
hotspot’.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Velez-Malaga
New open-air amphitheatre in Nerja.
Maria Zambrano Park.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Nerja
Fátima, we love you
ALMAYATE, a village that is part of the Velez-Malaga municipality, woke up some days ago to find its welcome sign hijacked by the kind of grand romantic gesture that would make a high school crush blush.
In big black letters across the white wall that greets visitors to the village, someone scrawled: ‘Fátima, te amo’ (Fatima, I love you). The message was completed by two hearts for that extra I’m-serious-but-alsocute energy.
The declaration was plastered right above the giant letters spelling ‘Almayate’, meaning literally everyone (including Fátima, presumably) would see it. And they did.
Including Velez-Malaga’s town hall, who saw it, and decided to clap back with a perfectly balanced dose of civic duty and
petty romance.
‘Fátima, we love you too… but not like this’, they posted online, before explaining that while love warms the soul, this little stunt made the town uglier and will now cost public money to clean.
The post, which went viral, didn’t stop there. ‘Fatima, if you read this: we hope at least you said yes. But if you decide to say no, send us his number so we can send him the invoice’.
It’s unclear whether Fátima has replied. But the mural’s days as a lovestruck billboard are numbered, as the clean-up crew is coming.
The town hall’s final advice to the town’s hopeless romantics? Flowers, letters, serenades, even giant banners… but leave the walls alone, kids.
From Nerja, with pedals
NERJA and Maro are close, but now about to get even closer.
And they’ll do it in the best way possible: on two wheels. The town hall has approved plans for a new 1.2 km stretch of bike lane that will finally link the two towns along a continuous 3.2 km cycling route.
The project carries a €449,248.80 budget and forms part of the ‘Nerja Sostenible’tourism sustainability plan, funded by the EU’s Next Generation EU programme.
Once complete, riders will be able to pedal from the roundabout to Burriana Beach all the way to the western entrance of Maro, crossing the Barranco de Maro bridge and running parallel to the old N-340 road.
More than just an upgrade, it’s a boost for
sustainable mobility and a fresh attraction for active tourism in the area.
Nerja’s mayor José Alberto Armijo says this is the fourth such project the council has launched, and the one that finally connects Nerja and Maro for good.
Councillor for Infrastructure, Alberto Tomé, adds that the next steps are all about bureau
cracy: approving the tender documents and getting the works out to bid.
If all goes smoothly, as residents hope, it won’t be long before locals and visitors can swap the car for a bike. Then they can soak in the Mediterranean views and cruise from tapas bar to tapas bar without burning a drop of fuel.
A new 1.2 km stretch of bike lane will link Nerja and Maro.
The love message found in Almayate.
Plumber aids Africa
IN a small village in Equatorial Guinea, a small country in Central Africa, taps are finally running, thanks to a retired plumber from Axarquia. Francisco Martín, better known back home in Canillas de Aceituno as ‘Paco el Cubano’, wrapped up a two-week mission with the Contagia Solidaridad association from Arriate. His goal was to get clean water flowing from a well to the heart of the village of Mebere.
The well, dug last year, was useless without a proper connection to the local network. Until now, children had to trek three kilometres to the nearest river just for drinking water. Paco and his volunteer crew installed the piping and a storage tank, a job he’s proudly named the ‘Well of Life’.
“We came back tired but happy. We gave everything from the heart,” Paco said on his return back to Axarquia. He’s also calling for continued support: “Any help, big or small, will be welcome.”
During their stay in Equatorial Guinea, the volunteers also helped the local Nson Msomo hospital team, who managed to carry out 250 medical consultations and 114 surgeries in just days. Back home, Paco’s humanitarian project was praised by Vicente Campos, Canillas de Aceituno’s mayor. He called the initiative “a great gesture of solidarity from one of our own,” adding a simple but powerful message: “Such acts make us bigger as people.”
And Paco is not done: he’s already thinking about his next mission.
The century man
AXARQUIA honours its centenarian elders as they deserve.
Luis Ruiz Ruiz, born and raised in the white town of Competa on a San Lorenzo day, just turned a century old. And he has spent 100 years rooted in his land, his work, and his people.
He was the last surviving of six siblings, and he’s lived through wars, revolutions, and tech leaps that once belonged to science fiction. His amazing story was shared by the town hall, as an example and a motivation for everyone.
He met his wife on San Luis Day in 1962, married her by Competa’s Feria in 1963, and welcomed their first daughter in September 1964. Two children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren later, Luis is still the fami -
ly’s storyteller, farmer, and open-door host.
Most of his life was spent in the local cortijo of Las Esparragueras, working the land with a devotion that left him sun-worn but content. Since 2022, you’ll find him above the bus stop on Avenida de la Constitucion, ready to chat with anyone: locals, kids, even foreig-
ners. He talks about everything, except two things: politics and football.
He swears by early mornings, honest work, and kindness to animals. Maybe that’s the real recipe for a long life.
A man who’s seen it all, held onto what matters, and kept his door (and heart) wide open.
‘Paco el Cubano’ in Equatorial Guinea.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Canillas de Aceituno
Luis Ruiz Ruiz.
AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST
Wine night fiesta God-tier dining
IF you’re going to spend some money on a meal in Axarquia, you might as well do it somewhere that spoils you like a Greek god.
Menade Restaurant, located inside the Baviera Golf Urbanisation in Caleta de Velez, is more than a ‘creative cuisine’ place; it is chef Pablo Vega’s own playground.
Vega’s CV is really intimidating: Michelin star at 24, training under Paco Pérez, consulting gigs in Brazil, and a return to his homeland in Malaga, where he sharpened his style at Óleo for three years. And now, he carefully blends that fine-dining precision with the ingredients and soul of his home turf.
The dining room is sleek but unpretentious, especially designed so your eyes stay
on the plate, not the wallpaper. The menu is equal parts tradition and disciplined chaos: hearty stews reimagined with some modern techniques, seafood treated like jewellery, and sauces that make you forget what you were saying. It’s all ‘studied madness’, as the inspired chef calls it.
Google reviewers give it 4.8 stars, TripAdvisor 4.9.
IN the white town of Competa, August 15 isn’t just another summer date.
That’s the day for La Noche del Vino (Wine night), the biggest local celebration and a love letter to grapes, music, and tradition.
More than one diner has claimed it’s literally the best food they’ve eaten while in Spain. And they’re not just talking about the flavour: it’s the pacing, the plating, the way each dish feels like a story.
Menade Restaurant is located at Urbanizacion Baviera Golf 11, Velez-Malaga. You can call for reservations on 689 208 152.
Nicknamed the ‘Balcony of the Mediterranean’, Competa throws a party rooted in the old send-offs for vineyard workers before harvest. Back then, families would gather in the Plaza de la Almijara to say goodbye until October, when the grapes were pressed and the raisins packed. Naturally, it all happened to the beat of fandangos and the flow of local wine.
The modern fiesta still kicks off with the pisa - the traditional grape-stomping - in Plaza de la Vendimia. It is complete with Verdiales bands, flamenco singing, and folk dancing. At midday, visitors are treated to a campero lunch, before the party moves back to the main square for speeches, mu-
sic, and, of course, more and more wine.
Food stalls dish out migas (a Spanish dish of fried breadcrumbs with garlic, olive oil, and often chorizo or other meats), salads, and bacalao (salted cod, typically rehydrated and cooked in various dishes), while a night market offers artisan crafts from jewellery to candles.
The air fills with song, the streets with dancing, and every glass with sweet moscatel wine. Declared a Festival of Tourist Interest in Andalucia, La Noche del Vino is one of the summer’s most unforgettable parties in the Malaga Province.
Credit: Diputación Provincial de Malaga
Credit: Menade Restaurant Facebook page
Menade Restaurant.
La Noche del Vino in Competa.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Lufthansa exits
LUFTHANSA has pulled out of talks to buy into Air Europa, leaving Turkish Airlines as the Spanish carrier’s sole option after Air France-KLM also withdrew and IAG was ruled out as a takeover candidate by competition concerns.
BK-Iberdrola
BURGER KING and Iberdrola España have signed a long-term deal for 1,900 GWh of renewable electricity, now powering over 900 Spanish restaurants. The partnership includes 348 EV charging points across 173 sites, supporting the chain’s green energy transition.
Parents struggling
LOQBOX’S 2025 Parents’ Planner reveals 81 per cent of UK parents feel financially strained this summer, with over half worse off than last year. Rising holiday, childcare, and school costs are pushing more families to rely on credit cards.
WFH
NEARLY half of UK businesses now want staff back in the office full-time, according to the British Chambers of Commerce. Despite 9 per cent reporting staff resignations over inflexibility, many firms are saying no to working from homesome linking it to bonuses.
Data ban
SPAIN’S Data Protection Agency has blocked the Chamber of Commerce and companies including Camerdata and Informa from selling self-employed workers’ data, citing no legal basis. The AEPD says such use violates GDPR transparency rules and must stop immediately.
STAT OF WEEK
The M&A market in Spain fell by in July 2025. 17%
Spain’s biggest fibre network
SPAIN’S largest fibre optic network is coming, as MasOrange, Vodafone Spain and GIC team up in a €5 billion joint venture to boost digital infrastructure and sustainability.
Announced on Monday, August 4, the joint venture - called FibreCo - will serve approximately 12 million premises and five million customers through networks contributed exclusively by MasOrange and Vodafone. The network will not be open to third parties. Under the agreement, MasOrange will hold 58 per cent of the new company, GIC will own 25 per cent, and Vodafone Spain will retain 17 per cent.
The transaction, which includes MasOrange’s acquisition and transfer of northern Spain’s Conexus Networks into FibreCo, is expected to close in Q4 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
The newly formed FibreCo promises to drive digitalisation, innovation and sustainability in Spain’s telecom
segment. “We are very pleased to announce this agreement with Vodafone and GIC to establish the largest FibreCo in Spain,” said Meinrad Spenger, CEO of MasOrange. “This venture will provide our customers with the best premium FTTH connectivity and assure future technology upgrades.”
The infrastructure will incorporate cutting-edge technologies like XGS-
Spark backs
BBVA Spark has provided €2.5 million in financing to digital real estate platform PropHero as the Australian-founded startup shifts its headquarters to Spain and targets a major expansion in the country’s housing market. The deal, announced August 4, is supported by the European Investment Fund under the InvestEU programme and will bolster PropHero’s liquidity as it seeks to double its business volume in Spain by the end of next year. Founded in Australia, PropHero operates in four countries and currently boasts over 10,000 active users. Its platform uses AI and data analytics to help users make smarter property investments, offering digi-
UK car finance Services sector
SPAIN’S services sector saw its fastest growth since February, with domestic demand driving a sharp jump in activity in July, according to S&P Global. The HCOB Spain Services PMI rose to 55.1 in July from 51.9 in June, showing solid expansion. Economist Jonas Feldhusen of Hamburg Commercial Bank said this “reinforces expectations that the current growth trajectory could persist.” With 0.7 per cent GDP growth in Q2 and robust manufacturing data, Spain may outpace the euro zone this year.
PON for ultra-fast speeds and meet high ESG standards, using energy-efficient systems to lower environmental impact.
The fibre rollout will be supported by more than €5bn in net debt, with around 20 global banks involved. Most of the financing is investment-grade, reflecting strong investor confidence in Spain’s fixed broadband future.
BBVA
the
by BBVA in 2022, chose to support PropHero based on its scalable business model and disruptive tech.
MILLIONS of UK drivers could get compensation from 2026 over mis-sold car finance - but payouts will be far smaller than feared. A Supreme Court ruling on August 1 cut the expected bill from £44 billion (€51.5 billion) to £9–18 billion (€10.5–21 billion), according to the FCA. At the heart of the scandal are now-banned Discretionary Commission Agreements (DCAs), which let dealers hike interest rates for extra commission. A six-week consultation launches in October. Following the ruling, UK lender shares surged: Close Brothers rose 23.5 per cent, while Lloyds hit a 10-year high.
BRITISH tourists spent £742 million (€871m) on VAT-free shopping in the EU last year - five times more than in 2021 - putting pressure on the UK to bring back its scrapped tax-free scheme. France accounted for 35 per cent of the spending.
Retailers say the policy is damaging UK high streets. Walpole’s CEO warned it ‘undermines the competitiveness’ of British brands. AIR says reinstating it could boost GDP by £3.65 billio n and generate £500m (€574m) in VAT.
ON August 5, the UK government announced plans to remove ‘discriminatory’ age bands from the minimum wage system, moving towards a single adult rate.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the change aims to ensure ‘a fair deal for our lowest paid workers’ as part of the government’s Plan for Change source. Could this finally mean equal pay for equal work, no matter the person’s age?
George Osborne’s warning
THE UK risks missing a second wave of the cryptocurrency boom, former chancellor George Osborne has warned. Writing in the Financial Times on August 4, he said Britain had ‘allowed ourselves to be left behind’ while places like Singapore and Abu Dhabi pushed ahead with crypto regulation.
Osborne, now an adviser to Coinbase, called the government’s approach to stablecoins too hesitant, accusing current chancellor Rachel Reeves and the Bank of England of dragging their feet. He warned the crypto market now reinforces US dominance, thanks to dollar-backed stablecoins and the new US Genius Act.
SOUTH KOREAN tech giant Naver has acquired Spain’s largest second-hand marketplace, Wallapop, for €377 million, as confirmed on August 5. The move gives Naver full control of the popular C2C platform, which boasts over 19 million monthly users. Rob Cassedy, CEO of Wallapop, told Business Korea, “We will strengthen our position in the European market by securing differentiated service competitiveness.” Will this shake up Europe’s second-hand scene?
tal tools for remote buyers and portfolio builders.
Spark,
innovation unit launched
GIC will own 25 per cent.
BBVA Madrid.
BUSINESS EXTRA
MAPFRE soars
MAPFRE AM now manages €39.67 billion, making it Spain’s largest non-bank asset manager. Profits hit €25.95 million in H1 2025 - up 19.4 per cent. Client assets rose 4 per cent, driven by €297 million in net subscriptions across investment and pension funds.
W2M expansion
W2M has appointed Elena Cabrera - former Ryanair country manager for Spain, Portugal, France, and Moroccoto lead its international growth. She’ll drive the Spanish group’s expansion into markets like Morocco and Central Europe, strengthening its global broadcasting presence.
Mango founder’s family
THE Andic family, owners of 95 per cent of Mango, have repurchased the fashion brand’s massive logistics centre in Lliçà d’Amunt, Barcelona, for €170 million, reclaiming a core asset nearly a decade after selling it. The deal, finalised by their holding company Punta Na, marks the family’s largest move since founder Isak Andic’s recent death.
The 280,000m2 logistics hub is one of Southern Europe’s largest in
MHP’s takeover of UVESA
UKRAINE’S MHP has acquired over 92 per cent of Spanish food giant Grupo UVESA after securing regulatory approvals from six countries and the EU.
The March 2025 deal, worth €225 per share plus a possible €21.43 bonus, gives MHP full operational
control. MHP Chair Dr John Rich said the integration will focus on “operational excellence and sustainable development” (PR Newswire). UVESA’s President called it a ‘new and significant chapter’. MHP is Europe’s largest poultry producer and exports to over 70 countries.
the textile industry, distributing stock to over 2,800 Mango stores and handling major volumes of online orders - up to 180 million units annually, according to Brainsre.
It was originally developed in 2011 but was sold off in a sale and leaseback deal in 2016. Over the past decade, the asset changed hands multiple timesfrom Punta Na to VPG, then to Tritax EuroBox, followed by Brookfield, which acquired it in 2024 before selling it back to the family.
Punta Na has been actively expanding its premium retail holdings. In April 2025, the group acquired the Prada flagship store on Barcelona’s Paseo de Gracia for €60 milliona 1,000m2 site marking one of the largest Spanish retail deals this year.
Team work
BANCO SABADELL has teamed up with DXC Technology to make its digital banking services more accessible, especially for people with disabilities. As PR Newswire reports, the AI-led project is run from the bank’s Alicante tech hub and aims to meet Spanish and EU accessibility standards while improving inclusion for its 12 million users.
GIBRALTAR was officially taken off the EU’s list of high-risk third countries as reported by an official press release on August 5. This follows major improvements to its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) systems. “This is good for business. It is good for trade,” said Minister Nigel Feetham KC MP.
A Mango store in Mallorca.
Credit: Tetyana_Pidkaluyk, Shutterstock.
ŠKODA Kamiq:
THE ŠKODA Kamiq has quickly become a favourite among drivers seeking a compact SUV that offers the perfect combination of urban agility, spacious design, and smart technology. Now available at Dismoauto in Velez-Malaga - just minutes from Nerja - this popular model can be seen in person, taken for a test drive, and explored in all its trim and colour options.
As part of ŠKODA’s SUV lineup, the Kamiq stands out for its practical size and premium features. It is ideal for both city driving and longer road trips, offering a high driving position, excellent fuel efficiency, and a surprisingly roomy interior. With the Kamiq, drivers get the benefits of an SUV without sacrificing comfort or manoeuvrability.
At Dismoauto Velez-Malaga, visitors can explore both brand-new units and ŠKODA Plus certified pre-owned models. All pre-owned Kamiq units under ŠKODA Plus have passed rigorous technical inspections and include warranties - making them a smart, secure choice for buyers who want the reliability of a
ŠKODA at a more accessible price point.
The Kamiq is available in various trim levels, such as GO (for a limited time), Selection and Plus, as well as sportier versions like Monte Carlo. Customers can choose from a wide palette of body colours, contrasting roof finishes, wheel designs, and interior materials - from modern fabric combinations
connectivity. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, parking sensors, and a premium sound system.
the Kamiq comes with advanced features like a digital cockpit, full LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, rearview camera, and wireless smartphone
Dismoauto offers tailored financing options for both new and used Kamiq models, including low monthly instalments, trade-in services, and flexible leasing plans. The expert team at the Velez-Malaga dealership is ready to help customers find the best package to suit their budget and lifestyle.
for a reliable everyday ve-
Whether you’re looking for a reliable everyday vehicle or a stylish SUV for weekend adventures, the ŠKODA Kamiq delivers performance, comfort, and versatility in one refined package.
Drivers across the Axarquia region are invited to visit Dismoauto in Velez-Malaga to discover the Kamiq for themselves. Take a test drive, explore the available configurations, and find out why this compact SUV continues to earn rave reviews across Europe.
Tracking tourists
A POPULAR tourist hotspot in Spain appears to be cracking down on the number of UK holidaymakers. Girona’s Old Town, located in Catalonia, has implemented a special network of sensors that will count the number of visitors around the Barri Vell area, as well as map the most used routes by them across the city, using their mobile devices.
A network of nine devices will use mobile phone signals to count tourists walking around Girona, and will also be able to identify whether the person is a resident or a visitor. Reportedly, the devices will also be able to register whether the person is spending the night in Girona’s Old Town, or if they will only be there for a few hours.
To be specific, the sensors will be located
at the Barri Vell, Plaza Independència, Calle Santa Clara, Plaza Catalunya, the History Museum and the Tourism Office in La Rambla, among other sites.
With these sensors, the tourism officials in Girona will be able to better determine how tourists roam the town, the events or places they tend to visit most or least often, and the ways in which the town can become more visitor-friendly and therefore increase factors such as tourist spending in bars, restaurants, and shops. They will also be able to more precisely determine how to maintain a balance between visitors and locals, and adapt schedules to accommodate locals’ needs, something that has been causing tension in other parts of Catalonia, most famously Barcelona.
Little C15’s big journey
IT sounds unbelievable, but it’s true: a young Spaniard has taken his modest Citroën C15 van on an extraordinary road trip from Spain to Germany to tackle the world-famous Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.
The 20-year-old enthusiast, Gerard Casals, set off from near Barcelona in early August 2025, covering 1,265 kilometres to reach the legendary track, nicknamed the ‘Green Hell’ for its complexity and danger.
Known for attracting high-performance supercars and professional drivers, the Nürburgring’s 21-kilometre layout and 170 challenging corners are the ultimate test for any vehicle, especially one originally designed as a humble workhorse.
Casals purchased his Citroën C15 at the age of 18 to compete in a rally raid in Morocco. When the
original engine failed at around 240,000 kilometres, he replaced it with a turbocharged 1.9-litre diesel from a Citroën Xsara, boosting its output to over 100 horsepower, a significant upgrade from its original specification. He also removed non-essential features such as power steering and air conditioning, and stripped unnecessary weight to improve handling.
The result? A quirky yet surprisingly capable machine that managed
not only to survive the gruelling journey across Europe, but also complete laps of one of the most demanding circuits on the planet. Videos shared on Casals’ YouTube channel capture the C15 taking on iconic sections such as the Karussell, drawing admiration from car fans worldwide. The Citroën C15, produced in Vigo between 1984 and 2005, is an icon of Spanish motoring history, celebrated for its durability and practicality.
Girona’s Old Town will be tracking tourists through specialised sensors.
Photo Credit: Enric Domas via Unsplash
The Citreon C15 is an icon of Spanish motoring history.
Photo credits: Capturing images/Shutterstock
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Heartfelt gratitude
THE Eyedrop initiative spearheaded by Jenny and Alan Boardman of Mijas has brought renewed vision and hope to nearly 1,000 residents of remote villages surrounding Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Thanks to generous donations of spectacles collected along the Costa del Sol, the Eyedrop project successfully distributed glasses during a January visit, has enabled locals to rediscover the stunning natural beauty of their region, and the gift of reading.
Elasmus T Godfrey, the Boardman’s guide, praised the effort, stating, “These donations are giving the people around Bwindi National Park a second chance to see the beautiful natural wonders around them.”
The impact has caused widespread enthusiasm, with 400 more villagers already signed up to receive spectacles during the Boardman’s return trip in January 2026.
Costa Calida Festival fever
ÁGUILAS is set to light up the summer nights with the return of its much-loved Summer Carnival Parade on Saturday, August 16. Starting at 9.30pm, the parade will roll out from the Nautical Club, making its way along the Paseo de Parra before ending at Ícaro. Sixteen colourful carnival groups will take part, joined by the Official Ballet of the Carnival Federation and the well-known characters already chosen for the 2025 festivities. Expect feathers, sequins, music, and non-stop dancing as the spirit of February’s famous carnival takes over the warm August evening. But the fun won’t stop when the parade ends. The celebration will carry on in Plaza Antonio Cortijos, where DJs will keep the music pumping and bars will be serving drinks well into the night. With a large crowd expected and plenty of space to dance, it’s the perfect place to soak up the carnival atmosphere.
Mallorca Palma’s train expansion
PRELIMINARY Balearic Island government surveys confirm that the entire Palma Bay area has a high level of demand that would justify extending the train to Calvia or Andratx, which would also meet a long-standing demand.
The government headed by Marga Prohens is planning to develop a railway line connecting Palma with Calvia, passing through Son Espases Hospital.
Although the government is currently considering several projects, the idea is to prioritise transport infrastructure that meets the demands of the population. Surveys done by the government have helped officials determine which routes would be most useful for commuters in Mallorca.
The government plans to extend or construct a new train line linking Calvia with Son Espases, a major step toward improving public transportation infrastructure in Mallorca.
Costa Blanca South Dreams set sail
THE Pascual Flores, a Torrevieja-based schooner captained by Rodrigo Boj Pérez, has made history by winning first place in the 2025 Tall Ship Race, the world’s premier regatta for tall ships. This is the first time since 1964 that a Spanish vessel has taken home the prestigious trophy, making this victory even sweeter.
Built in 1917 as a cargo schooner, Pascual Flores was a key player in Torrevieja’s maritime trade and carried salt, fruit, and other goods across the Mediterranean and North Africa. After decades of neglect, the vessel was lovingly restored, and it now stands as a symbol of the city’s rich seafaring heritage.
The 2025 Tall Ship Race, an international race organised by Sail Training International, had a challenging route through Northern Europe. Stops included Le Havre, Dunkirk, Aberdeen, Kristiansand, and Esbjerg.
Almeria Festival fairytale
THE Dreambeach electronic music festival in Villaricos saw an unexpected romantic moment that temporarily stole the spotlight from the music. On Saturday night of August 9, during one of the main stage performances, festival-goer Cristian surprised his partner Sandra with a marriage proposal that briefly brought the show to a standstill.
The couple had been attending Dreambeach together for years, making the festival a particularly meaningful setting for the life-changing question. As the crowd danced under the laser lights and heavy beats, Cristian made the proposal in front of Sandra and the thousands of spectators gathered.
The emotional scene reached its peak as he asked her to marry him, prompting cheers, applause, and a wave of camera flashes from the audience. Sandra’s immediate ‘yes’ sparked an eruption of celebration, with the atmosphere shifting from electric to euphoric.
Costa Blanca North
LINE 9 of Alicante’s TRAM service, which runs between Benidorm and Denia and is managed by Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Valenciana (FGV), has received the UNE-EN 13816 European Quality Standard certificate. This recognition comes after a comprehensive modernisation process involving investments of over €150 million in recent years. TRAM d’Alicante combines trains and trams to connect the city of Alicante with its metropolitan area and nearby cities. The train service was suspended in summer 2016 due to safety concerns caused by the poor condition of the infrastructure. It only resumed running to Denia in January 2023, after six and a half years. Even after reopening, further work was carried out on viaducts and other key structures along the route.
Line 9 joins the other 15 lines that hold the UNEEN 13816 certification - covering 10 metro and tram lines in Metrovalencia and six tram, train-tram, and conventional train lines in Alicante.
What to do in a wildfire
Madrid’s second airport
WILDFIRES are a common summer danger in Spain, with most caused by human negligence. When they break out near roads, the risk to drivers increases sharply, making it essential to know how to react.
Recent years have seen fast-moving blazes in the Costa Blanca and Andalucia, forcing road closures and evacuations in tourist hotspots. Dry vegetation, strong winds and high temperatures create ideal conditions for flames to spread quickly,
INTERVIEW
Credit: Sua Sponte Photography /Shutterstock.com
often catching motorists by surprise.
Flames or smoke can usually be spotted from afar. If your route leads towards a fire, turn around and find another way. Avoid high mountain areas where fires spread faster, and never drive in the direction of the wind. Keep headlights and hazard lights on - fog lights if necessary - and call 112 to alert emergency services.
If you encounter a wildfire while driving, remain calm and assess the situation.
Never drive through flames or thick smoke. Stay inside your vehicle if possible, with windows shut and ventilation off. Only abandon it if instructed by authorities, covering your mouth and nose with a cloth and moving against the wind.
Over 80 per cent of Spain’s wildfires are started by humans, with around 30 per cent due to carelessness - often from throwing cigarette butts from cars or leaving glass that can ignite dry grass.
Speaking European: Samu and Heli
Finnish couple Samu and Heli moved to Spain in 2024 with their fiveyear-old daughter and just three suitcases. Now living in Manilva, they’ve embraced the sunshine, simplicity, and healthier lifestyle Spain offersand they say they’ve never been happier.
“THERE’S something about October and November in Finland - it’s so dark it looks like a ghost movie,” Heli said. “Here, we feel better, sleep better, and eat better. It’s also a great place for kids.”
The couple originally settled in Benalmadena, but the steep hills weren’t ideal for cycling. Manilva, with its flat terrain and welcoming community, proved to be the perfect fit.
They praise Spain’s family-friendly culture, especially how children are welcome everywhere. “It’s more relaxed here,” Heli said. “People are open-minded and entrepreneurial.”
They now work remotely as independent partners for Zinzino, a Scandinavian wellness brand offering supplements and health tests. Their passion? Encouraging others to live
MADRID-BARAJAS, Spain’s busiest airport, is feeling the squeeze. Handling over 60 million passengers last year and already seeing a 10 per cent rise in 2024, projections suggest traffic could hit 90 million by 2030 - well beyond its current capacity. Even with planned expansions, the capital faces a serious vulnerability: if Barajas experiences weather disruptions, strikes or technical issues, there’s no major alternative runway for hundreds of kilometres.
runway would serve smaller aircraft and general aviation.
healthier and follow their dreamssooner rather than later.
“If you’re thinking of moving abroad, don’t wait until you’re 70,” said Heli. “There’s always a solution. The best time is now.”
Contact Heli Nyman
www.zinzino.com/7781085907
nyman.heli@gmail.com
+358 44 537 66 80
Business leaders believe the answer lies just 30 kilometres away at Casarrubios-Álamo aerodrome, straddling the Madrid-Toledo border. While little known to holidaymakers, it’s a surprisingly busy hub, managing around 70,000 flights annually. The vision for ‘Madrid Sur’ is to transform this site into a fully fledged second airport.
Phase one would deliver a new 3.2 km runway, a 15,000 m² passenger terminal, 50,000 m² for hangars and maintenance, plus dedicated areas for private jets and corporate flights. The existing
The economic stakes are significant.
An initial €150 million would kickstart the first phase, with total investment potentially reaching €1.95 billion over 25 years. The project promises around 12,500 construction jobs, 32,500 in surrounding industrial growth, and more than 48,000 long-term positions once operational.
However, hurdles remain. Environmental assessments, funding agreements and construction timelines must align, and final approval from Aena and the Spanish government is still pending.
Samu and Heli.
Credit: Heli Nyman.
Avoid high mountain areas where fire spreads quickly.
Long waits at Madrid-Barajas passport control highlight the need for extra capacity.
PETS
Hot and cold therapies
IF your dog’s joints are painful, hot and cold therapy can help, depending on the underlying cause of the joint pain. If your dog has a chronic condition like arthritis or hip dysplasia, use a heat pack on their joints for up to 20 minutes to relax the area. If they have an injury that’s caused the joint pain, try a cold pack briefly to help them recover.
Wolfie loves playing with his pet-sitters
EVERY week at HouseSitMatch we meet new pets and there are such fun characters among them, we have a hard time featuring one above the others in our articles. However, this week Wolfie is head of the pack for his cheeky personality. Several house-sitters have applied to dog-sit for him. Do you have a fun pet like Wolfie who needs a pet-sitter? Do get in touch, we’ll be happy to help you.
HouseSitMatch saves you money
Our role at HouseSitMatch is to promote collaborative exchange enabling house-sitting and pet-sitting matches, through our managed online system. You experience free accommodation for free pet care! It means everyone benefits in that exchange.
HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked
All members are checked for safety, and you choose which housesitters come to care for your pets in
your absence. Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed
All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed.
If you’re planning travel this year, join now. Get organised today:
1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on HouseSitMatch. com
2. Join for as little as £89 / €99 per year
3. Create a profile with photos
4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video interview via the site and match!
How does it work?
Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose.
Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5
Excellent
A genuine matching service. HouseSitMatch is well described; it is a true matching service with Lamia at the helm. It has that personal touch because Lamia makes it her business to get to know the sitters and homeowners personally. She is able to recommend and answer questions that people might ask to find a suitable match for their needs.
Pet-sitter - Liz Edge
Date of experience: July 24, 2025
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!
Affection or alarm
CATS have many curious ways of showing affection, but one of the most endearing is bunting. This is when a cat gently presses or rubs its head against you, furniture or even other pets. Far from random, bunting is a sign of trust and bonding.
Cats have scent glands on their heads, so when they bunt, they are marking you as safe and familiar - a quiet compliment in the feline world.
While bunting is normal and healthy, persistent and forceful head pressing is a different matter altogether. Unlike affectionate nudges, abnormal head pressing usually involves a cat pressing its head against walls, floors or hard surfaces, often with a vacant or distressed look. This behaviour can be a symptom of serious medical issues, including neurological problems, poisoning or liver disease.
Any sudden change in behaviour should never be ignored. If your cat starts pressing its head repeatedly in strange places, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Early diagnosis is crucial and can prevent more severe complications.
Knowing the difference between a loving head bump and a sign of illness can help you act quickly and ensure your cat stays healthy and safe.
Wolfie is a character and loves teasing his sitters. Bascially he loves playing.
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CHURCH SERVICES
THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC service - please contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House - 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail: cofenerja@gmail. com
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GWM - launch new double cab pick-up
By Mark Slack ROAD TEST
GWM has announced the upcoming launch of its POER300 double-cab pickup truck. Globally, GWM is a technology company, whose business includes automobile and parts design, R&D, production, sales and service. Its UK business, formally known as GWM ORA, officially launched in 2022 here in the UK with the all-electric ORA 03. However, although the company has cancelled initial plans to expand into Spain these rugged pickup trucks may still tempt expats venturing back to the UK.
Scheduled to arrive in dealerships from next month the POER300 (pronounced ‘POWER’) double-cab pick-up will be powered exclusively by GWM’s robust 2.4-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 183ps of power and 480 Nm of torque. This efficient yet powerful engine will return 32.7mpg in combined driving and is paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4×4 system with low-range capability.
A braked towing capacity of 3,500kg and a payload of 1,000kg means the POER300 is capable of towing livestock
trailers, generators, heavy equipment or a caravan.
In Australia, the POER300, known in some global markets as the Cannon Ute, has established itself amongst its well-known and established rivals from Europe and Japan in a short space of time. The vehicle consistently ranks in the top 10 best-selling pickups and has quickly gained a reputation amongst owners for its overall performance and value for money. GWM are
display and wireless charging area for a mobile device.
The vehicle offers multiple intelligent all-terrain modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand), and an electronically activated rear differential lock (standard), for enhanced off-road capability. There is an off-road approach angle of 27°, departure angle of 25°, and 230mm ground
hoping for a repeat here in the UK. There’s a bold exterior design with soft-touch materials, a simplified console layout, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto inside the cabin alongside a 7.0-inch digital driver’s
Black radars
SPANISH roads are about to get a major tech upgrade - one that’s got more to do with who’s in your passenger seat than your speedometer. Starting in 2025, a new wave of ‘black radars’ (radares negros) will quietly monitor cars using carpool, bus, and emergency lanes, checking if drivers are really following the rules. Forget the old, highly visible yellow speed cameras: these next-generation devices are nearly invisible, with no signs and no warning. Their mission isn’t catching speeders, but rather those trying to sneak into special lanes with mannequins or fake passengers.
The technology behind these radars is cutting-edge. Using thermal sensors, infrared cameras, and advanced AI, they can tell the difference between a real person and a dummy - even through tinted windows or clever disguises. Their manufacturers boast an error rate below 1 per cent, meaning cheating the system is basically impossible.
These black radars are already rolling out on key routes into Madrid, especially on the notorious
High-tech cameras are designed to catch more than just speeders.
bus-VAO lanes, where cheating has become common. Get caught trying to game the system and you’ll be hit with a €200 fine - no points, but a hefty price for a shortcut. But it’s not just about punishing rule-breakers. The wider goal is to encourage carpooling, promote public transport, and reduce city traffic and emissions. The move mirrors similar efforts in France, where black radars have cracked down on sneaky drivers in Paris and Lyon. And the future could see these radars do even more: spotting mobile phone use, seatbelt violations, or even drowsy drivers.
A three-tier trim range offers Lux, Ultra and Vanta with all variants carrying a five-year/125k warranty. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloys, leatherette seats, keyless entry and rear parking sensors. Moving up the range sees heated/ ventilated seats, ambient lighting, privacy glass, sunroof, tailgate step, 360° camera and at the top-of-therange a blacked-out exterior trim, wheel arches and black alloy wheels.
Prices start from €36,329/£31,495 for the lead-in Lux variant and GWM showrooms will have the vehicles from later in September.
Credit : X - Anonyme Citoyen @AnonymeCitoyen
Tickets sold out in hours
TICKETS for the Mallorca-Barça match on the opening day of the season, August 16, have sold out within hours, and anybody holding one is considered to be extremely lucky as they are increasingly becoming ‘priceless jewels’.
With just one week to go until the match that will kick off the 2025-26 season at Son Moix, there are no more tickets on sale on the Balearic club’s website, and the only seats available in the stadium
will be those vacated by season ticket holders in the days leading up to the match.
Son Moix will enjoy the dream start to the season. The reigning league champions will begin their title defence at the Camí dels Reis against a Mallorca side that will also officially kick off the second season of the Arrasate project.
A very similar situation to that of a year ago, when a Real Madrid team that had just won the Euro-
pean Super Cup travelled to Palma, where Kylian Mbappé was about to make his debut in Spanish football.
The more than 23,000 season ticket holders with which Mallorca will kick off the season leave fewer than 3,000 seats available in the stadium, and all the seats offered through the official website for the match on August 16 (7.30pm), ranging in price between €95 and €210, were sold within hours.
Official Ballon d’Or lists
THE complete list of men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or 2025 nominees has been revealed ahead of the September ceremony. Also, the rest of the award nominees have been released.
The awards ceremony is on September 22, and for now, Ousmane Dembe-
le will take the trophy, although Lamine Yamal follows closely behind.
Headlining both lists are standout players from both Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal’s Champions League triumphs in the men’s and women’s competitions, respectively.
Barcelona superstars in both categories also make up a significant portion of the nominees, including Lamine Yamal, Alexia Putellas, Pedri, and Aitana Bonmatí, among others.
Last year’s winner, Manchester City star Rodri, is not among the nominees after suffering an ACL injury last September, which kept him out of play for an extended period. As such, a new men’s winner will be crowned this time.
bélé, Yamal, Raphinha and Salah are favourites to take home the men’s award. However, Dembélé leads the group, having won his firstever Champions League trophy in Munich, convincingly defeating Inter Milan 5–0. PSG also won Ligue 1 and their domestic cup in convincing fashion.
On the women’s list for a Ballon d’Or were Sandy Baltimore (Chelsea), Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride), and Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona), among 27 more.
RCD Mallorca hosts Barcelona in Palma on August 16 in their first La Liga game this season.
