Dep. Legal A PM 42-2025 - 140 - 2004 - ISSN - ISSN 3015-1309 2488-1686
Mallorca I No. 2145 I 13 - 19 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Douglas named ambassador Mallorca honours A-lister as daughter wows crowds with Spanish skills HOLLYWOOD legend Michael Douglas has been officially named a Mallorca ambassador, but it was his daughter Carys who stole much of the attention after speaking fluent Spanish about the island she says holds her happiest memories. The father and daughter attended the inaugural Mallorca Terra d’Honor awards at the Costa Nord Cultural Centre in Valldemossa, where Douglas was recognised for his decades of promoting Mallorca around the world. Speaking to reporters in Spanish, 23-year-old Carys described Mallorca as her family’s favourite place and said it was where many of her best memories had been made. She also joked that her Spanish would improve after spending more time on the island this summer, delighting local media with her confidence and warmth. Douglas has enjoyed a close relationship with Mallorca since buying the historic S’Estaca estate near Valldemossa in 1989. Over the years, the Oscar-winning actor has
Credit: ConselldeMallorca
Michael Douglas honoured at the Terra d’Honor awards.
frequently described the island as his second home and has supported local cultural initiatives, including helping establish the Costa Nord Cultural Centre. The new Terra d’Honor distinction has been created by the Consell de Mallorca to recognise people who have helped raise the
island’s international profile through their work and long-standing connection with Mallorca. The gala also offered a rare public appearance for Douglas and Carys together. The pair arrived hand in hand before posing for photographs, with Carys elegant in black and Douglas opting
for a relaxed navy suit. Although she is now pursuing an acting career in the United States after graduating from Brown University, Carys made it clear that Mallorca remains close to her heart, showing that the family’s deep affection for the island continues into the next generation.
A royal good time KING FELIPE VI has wrapped up a busy weekend in Mallorca after competing in the 44th Copa del Rey de Vela before joining his family for dinner at a Palma restaurant. The King sailed aboard Hispania in the Abanca ORC 0 class, finishing second overall and winning the final race of the prestigious regatta in the Bay of Palma. After racing ended, King Felipe attended the trophy ceremony at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, where he was welcomed by Balearic President Marga Prohens and other regional and local officials before presenting awards to the winning crews. Later, he joined Queen Letizia, Queen Sofía, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía at Mía restaurant in Palma’s Portitxol district. The family were also accompanied by Jean Henri Fruchaud, a close friend of Queen Sofía. The dinner provided a relaxed end to the royal family’s Mallorca weekend. Credit: CasaReal
President Marga Prohens and the King at the trophy ceremony.
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LOCAL NEWS
Pink takes over Sineu and rituals revolve. Pink is very much the unofficial uniform, with revellers embracing everything from simple T-shirts and hats to extravagant fancy dress. The celebrations spill through Sineu’s historic streets, with parades and music creating a carnival-like atmosphere while local bars, restaurants and businesses welcome the crowds. What began as a local celebration little more than two decades ago has developed into one of Mallorca’s most recognisable modern fiestas. For many islanders, the annual explosion of pink has now become as much a part of August as sunshine, packed terraces and long summer nights.
Credit: Facebook/sollerweb
HUNDREDS of people dressed head-totoe in pink transformed the streets of Sineu on Monday, August 10, as one of Mallorca’s most colourful summer celebrations returned. Known as the Mucada, or Much de Reig, the quirky festival has grown from relatively humble beginnings in the early 2000s into a hugely popular date on the island’s summer calendar. For one day, the normally peaceful town in the heart of Mallorca becomes a sea of pink, with elaborate costumes, music, dancing and street celebrations attracting visitors from across the island. At the heart of the festivities are the Much and Muca, the eccentric characters around which many of the day’s traditions
Mucada mayhem as pink costumes transformed Sineu’s streets
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Royal arrival
Credit: Wikipedia/CCBY-SA4.0
Qatar royal family’s private jet touches down.
ONE of the world’s most extravagant private aircraft touched down in Mallorca just days before the island witnessed its historic total solar eclipse. The Boeing 747-8, associated with Qatar’s royal family, arrived at Palma Airport from Doha, immediately sparking speculation over the reason behind its visit. It has not been confirmed whether Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, or other members of the ruling family were on
board, and there has been no official confirmation linking the arrival to the eclipse. The enormous aircraft belongs to the Qatar Amiri Flight fleet, which transports members of the royal family and senior government officials. The Qatari royal family reportedly has two Boeing 7478 Jumbo Jets, with aircraft of this kind valued at around $350 million to $400 million, approximately €300 million to €345 million, helping earn them comparisons with “pa-
laces in the sky.” The Al Thani family is no stranger to Mallorca. Sheikh Tamim visited the island last summer after attending a United Nations conference in Sevilla, reportedly joining his spectacular 123-metre superyacht, Al Lusail. The latest arrival came shortly before Mallorca experienced one of the most eagerly anticipated astronomical events in decades, as the total solar eclipse swept across the island on Wednesday, August 12.
NEWS
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13 - 19 August 2026
Inheritance tax change
Calendar clash Bank holiday day claims
The impact will depend on individual circumstances.
ries receive. Moving permanently to Spain does not automatically remove someone from UK inheritance tax rules. The UK considers factors including long-term tax residency, meaning some British expatriates may still have financial links to Britain despite living abroad for years. Chris Ball, CEO and an expatriate financial planning specialist, warned that British residents in Spain should review their situation before the new rules take effect. The impact will depend on indivi-
dual circumstances, including how long someone lived in the UK, when they moved abroad, the size of their pension and other assets they hold. Some pension holders may consider withdrawing funds or gifting money before 2027, but experts warn against making decisions without professional advice due to the complex tax rules between Spain and the UK. For many expatriate families, the issue is not retirement income, but what happens to decades of savings left behind.
Credit: daily_creativity/shutterstock
Photo credit: Iryna Dzvonkovska/Shutterstock
SHIFTING RULES ACROSS BORDERS
THOUSANDS of British nationals living in Spain could face unexpected inheritance tax consequences after a major UK pension rule change comes into force in 2027. From April 6 next year, certain UKheld pensions will be brought into the inheritance tax system, meaning savings that many retirees believed could pass to loved ones outside the tax rules may be assessed differently after their death. The change does not affect the value of pensions during a person’s lifetime, but it could alter how much beneficia-
Check specific workplace agreements.
WORKERS in Spain could have a stronger claim to an extra day off when Assumption Day falls on a Saturday this year. Observed on Saturday, August 15, Assumption Day is a national public holiday across Spain. Because many employees already have Saturdays off, questions have been raised about whether they should lose the benefit of the holiday when it coincides with their normal weekly rest day. Fresh attention has followed a recent National Court ruling linked to a dispute in the customer service sector. Judges found that a public holiday should not automatically be absorbed into a worker’s regular rest period. Under that interpretation, some employees may be entitled to a compensatory day off instead. Workers whose schedules already include Saturdays as a non-working day are among those most likely to be affected. Although the case relates to a specific sector, employment specialists believe its reasoning could influence disputes in other industries where collective agreements contain similar provisions. Any entitlement will depend on the terms of individual agreements and workplace arrangements, meaning an additional day off is not guaranteed for everyone. Guidance reported by El País suggests that replacement leave should generally be taken within 14 calendar days of the holiday, although exceptions may apply in cases such as illness or authorised absence. Credit: Dragon Images - Shutterstock
Community access BORDERS, BRICKS, AND BOUNDARIES PROPERTY owners in Spain face severe financial and legal penalties if they refuse access to maintenance workers conducting repairs on shared infrastructure. Under Article 9.1 of Spain’s Horizontal Property Law, known as Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, property owners must permit entry to their homes or gardens for essential work on communal services. This obligation applies to flats, detached houses, and urbanisations where shared utilities, such as water pipes or drainage networks, cross private land. Recent court decisions demonstrate that judges have little patience for uncooperative residents. In Orihuela we recently heard from a Euro Weekly reader about an owner who refused entry to a plumber after bougainvillaea roots damaged
shared pipes beneath his garden, causing a neighbour’s water bills to balloon. Courts eventually forced access, leaving the stubborn owner liable for legal costs, compensation, and his own garden repairs. In another case, an elderly resident attempted to block workers from lifting a shower tray to fix a communal leak. The court ruled that lacking minor details does not grant the right to delay critical repairs. While owners can request details regarding work schedules and disruption, they cannot legally block access once necessity is proven. Refusing entry does not protect the home. Instead, it converts routine maintenance into a costly legal dispute. Early cooperation remains the best way to avoid heavy court fees and property damage.
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What if the leak is from your house in Spain?
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LOCAL NEWS
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Glam charity golf bash GOLFERS are being invited to tee off for a good cause as one of Mallorca’s most prestigious courses prepares to host an afternoon of sport, prizes and charity fundraising. The SOM Charity Tournament will take over Golf Son Vida on Friday, August 28, bringing players together in support of the SOM Foundation, Sanitaris Oberts al Món, a Mallorca-based organisation of healthcare professionals involved in humanitarian and international cooperation projects. The action gets underway with a shotgun start at 3pm, before the event moves from the fairways to dinner and a charity raffle. A tempting collection of prizes is already lined up, including hotel stays
Email golf.mallorca@arabellagolf.com for tickets.
at CM Hotels, Hipotels and Hotel Can Corritx, restaurant vouchers, a scuba-diving experience, padel, acupuncture sessions and tickets to Hydropark Alcudia. Organisers say proceeds will go directly towards supporting the foundation’s projects, giving golfers the chance to enjoy one of Mallorca’s best-known courses while helping humanitarian work further afield. Entry costs €55 for premium members, €70 for members of other courses and €105 for visitors, with the postround dinner and charity raffle included. With golf, good food, prizes and a worthy cause all on the bill, the late-summer tournament promises to bring a feel-good finish to August at Son Vida.
Energy drinks ban Credit:Wikipedia
13 - 19 August 2026
Credit: ArabellaSonVida
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Banned sale of energy drinks to under-18s.
THE Balearic Islands have introduced new rules banning the sale of energy drinks to anyone under the age of 18, alongside tighter controls on recreational use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. The measures are part of a regional government initiative aimed at reducing health risks among young people and preventing the misuse of substances that can affect their wellbeing. Retailers will be prohibited from selling energy drinks to minors under the new regulations. Authorities have raised concerns about the high caffeine levels in these products and their popularity among teenagers, particularly when combined with alcohol.
The government has also moved to restrict access to nitrous oxide when it is used for recreational purposes. While the gas remains permitted for legitimate medical, food and industrial uses, officials are targeting its sale and consumption as an intoxicating substance. Businesses that breach the new rules could face significant financial penalties, with fines depending on the seriousness of the offence. The Balearic government says the changes are focused on prevention and protecting younger residents from potential risks linked to excessive caffeine consumption and recreational substance use. The measures form part of a wider public health strategy across the islands.
LOCAL NEWS
13 - 19 August 2026
Jellyfish surge
Searching for luxury Credit: Shutterstock/Michaela Holubova
BEACHGOERS in Mallorca are being warned to keep an eye on the water after an increase in jellyfish was recorded around the Balearic Islands during the height of the summer season. The Balearic Government’s coastal clean-up service collected around 10 kilograms of jellyfish of different species from bathing areas during July. However, there was reassuring news for swimmers, with no Portuguese man-of-war detected or collected by the service during the month. Jellyfish are common around Mallorca in summer, with their presence close to beaches heavily influenced by sea temperatures, currents and wind. Conditions can change quickly, meaning one stretch of coastline may see jellyfish while nearby beaches remain unaffected.
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Credit: Larssen
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The Dragonfly arrives in Deia, owned by Google co-founder.
Warning to keep an eye on the water.
The figures were revealed as part of the islands’ wider coastal clean-up operation, which removed approximately 7.1 tonnes of waste from Balearic waters in July. Mallorca accounted for the largest amount, at around 3.4 tonnes. Plastic made up more than 48 per cent of everything collected, followed by wood at almost 33 per
cent. A fleet of 23 vessels is involved in the operation, which continues until September 30. Swimmers are advised to check beach flags and follow lifeguard instructions before entering the water. Jellyfish washed ashore should also be avoided, as their tentacles can remain capable of delivering a painful sting.
ONE of the world’s most spectacular superyachts has appeared off Mallorca, bringing an extraordinary display of billionaire luxury to the island’s west coast. Dragonfly, the 142-metre vessel reportedly owned by Google co-founder Sergey Brin, was spotted anchored off Deia on Monday, August 10. Worth an estimated €390 million, the enormous yacht is longer than a football pitch and comes with two helipads, a shaded swimming pool and another pool with a glass bottom. Spread across five decks, Dragonfly boasts around 2,000 square metres of living space, alongside a gym, beauty salon, games room and beach club. The vessel can reportedly accommodate up to 24 guests in 12 cabins, supported by as
many as 53 crew members. Despite its considerable size, it can reach speeds of around 24 knots. Dragonfly’s exterior was designed by Argentine yacht designer Germán Frers, while Italian studio Nauta Design was responsible for its interiors, which have largely remained out of public view. The impressive arrival adds another famous vessel to Mallorca’s waters during the height of the Mediterranean superyacht season. Rising Sun was also reported to be anchored nearby, with Hollywood actors Orlando Bloom and Matthew McConaughey said to be aboard. Together, the vessels have transformed the waters around Deia into a remarkable showcase of floating luxury.
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LOCAL NEWS
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Credit: portsdebalears
PALMA Mayor Jaime Martínez has called on TUI and the Balearic Port Authority (APB) to reach an agreement that would allow the city’s proposed water bus service to go ahead. The appeal comes as uncertainty surrounds the future of the project. Martínez said the service has become increasingly important following the redevelopment of the Paseo Maritimo, which has seen parking spaces removed and traffic patterns changed. He argued that Palma needs more sustainable transport options to help improve mobility for residents and visitors. The water bus was conceived as a new public transport link across the Bay of Palma, connecting key parts of the city by catamaran and helping reduce road congestion. Earlier plans proposed several routes lin-
Credit: Shutterstock/radekcho
Water bus waivers Palma bookings soar
Sky-rocketed 163.9 per cent compared with last year.
Will plans for the new water bus stay afloat?
king the cruise port, Palma city centre and coastal areas including Portitxol, Can Pastilla, Cala Estancia and s’Arenal. The service was also expected to integrate with other forms of public transport. The project was awared to TUI in partnership with local company MallorcAventura earlier this year,
but legal and administrative hurdles have delayed its launch. For now, the scheme remains on hold, but the mayor has made clear he believes it is an important investment in Palma’s future transport network and hopes both parties can find a solution that allows the long-awaited water bus service to move forward.
MALLORCA’S summer appeal is showing little sign of slowing, with new travel figures revealing a dramatic surge in last-minute demand for Palma while British holidaymakers remain the Balearics’ biggest international booking market. Passenger numbers linked to last-minute August flight bookings for Palma have risen 163.9 per cent compared with last year, according to data from travel platform Kiwi.com. The surge comes alongside a wider boom across the Balearic Islands. Holiday bookings recorded during the latest week were 31.3 per cent higher than during the equivalent period in 2025, according to Travelgate. British travellers continue to play a major role. Spanish holidaymakers accounted for the biggest share of bookings at 43.3 per cent,
but Britons were comfortably the largest international market, representing 24.6 per cent. Germany followed at 4.9 per cent, with France at 3.8 per cent. The Balearics accounted for 15.9 per cent of bookings across Spain during the week, placing the islands third nationally behind Cataluña and Andalucia. Last-minute holidays are also becoming increasingly important. Some 11.2 per cent of Balearic bookings were made within 24 hours of the trip beginning or on the day itself. Palma was among the standout destinations, with its 163.9 per cent passenger increase highlighting strong demand for spontaneous Mallorca escapes even at the height of the summer season.
SPANISH NEWS
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Animal trafficking
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Photo credit: Vaxo/Shutterstock
Change behind Spain’s bars
Police have detected increased animal trafficking.
SPAIN’S stretched animal shelters are facing a threat as police warn that puppies are being trafficked into the country for profit, with some allegedly arriving without health controls. The trade can leave buyers with sick animals and adds pressure to a welfare system already receiving hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats each year. Police have detected increased animal trafficking along the AP-7, with puppies reportedly brought from Eastern Europe and sold in Spain for higher prices. Breeds identified include chihuahuas, dachshunds, labradors and golden retrievers. The financial incentive is clear. A dog bought for around €100 can reportedly be sold for as much as €2,000. But authorities warn that bypassing veterinary safeguards can
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create health risks. A puppy may appear healthy when sold but develop illness after reaching its home, leaving families facing distress and bills. Legal animal transport is possible when safeguards are followed; the concern is when controls are avoided. The warning comes as Fundación Affinity recorded 285,720 dogs and cats entering Spanish shelters during 2025, including 169,268 dogs. The figure includes lost and abandoned animals, highlighting pressure on Spain’s protection network. Authorities say buyers should check documentation, identification and veterinary history. A cheap puppy may seem like a bargain, but its cost can fall on the animal, the family and an already overloaded nationwide shelter system.
A NEIGHBOURHOOD bar can keep the same sign, the same regulars and the same tortilla for years. But the person holding the keys is increasingly likely to have come from somewhere else. Foreign nationals now account for 25.5 per cent of Spain’s self-employed hospitality workers, effectively one in four, and their role is even larger among salaried staff, where they make up almost one in three. Barcelona offers the clearest glimpse of the change. A council survey of 999 bars and restaurants found that almost 44 per cent had an owner of foreign nationality. Chinese nationals alone represented 18.6 per cent, close to one in five, followed at some distance by Italians and Pakistanis. That does not mean every familiar Spanish bar is turning into a Chinese or foreign restaurant. Many new owners still retain the coffees, beers, local tapas and classic menu del dia that customers already know and love.
Self-employment groups say foreign entrepreneurs are also helping to fill a growing succession gap as older owners retire and find it increasingly hard to pass down their business to a generation uninterested in long hours, rising costs and tight
margins. The figures require care though: Spain counts individual autonomos rather than establishments, and hospitality includes accommodation. Even so, a quiet changing of the guard is clearly taking place behind Spain’s bar counters.
Soller art night arrives
Credit: Wik
imediaCom
mons/José
LuisFilpoCab
ana
A BRAND-NEW cultural event is set to light up the heart of Soller this summer as ART SOLLER’26 transforms the town’s iconic P laza C Plaza Constitución into a galle onstitución will transfo rm into a vib ry. rant open-a vibrant open-air gallery on ir Saturday, August 15. Running from the evening LLER’26 invites people to until midnight, the inaugural experience art outdoors, suwith new experiences that event will bring together arrrounded by the historic arcelebrate the town’s artistic tists, musicians and the local chitecture and lively atmosidentity. With its stunning community for a celebration phere that make Soller one mountain backdrop, bustling of creativity in one of Mallorof the island’s most popular cafés and rich heritage, Soca’s most picturesque setdestinations. Alongside viller offers the perfect setting tings. Designed to make art sual art, the programme will for an evening dedicated to accessible to everyone, the feature music and participacreativity. If the first edition square will become an exhition from local organisations, proves a success, ART SObition space where visitors creating an event aimed at LLER’26 could become a recan discover works by local residents and tourists alike. gular highlight of Mallorca’s and Mallorcan artists while The initiative reflects Sosummer events calendar, enjoying live entertainment. ller’s commitment to sugiving visitors yet another reRather than a traditional pporting local talent and exason to explore this beautiful gallery exhibition, ART SOpanding its cultural calendar corner of the island.
MALLORCA
Sant Bartomeu celebrations CONSELL is getting ready to celebrate the Festes de Sant Bartomeu 2026, with 10 days of music, traditional events and family activities set to bring the village together from Saturday, August 15, to Monday, August 24. The annual festival honours the village’s patron saint and remains one of the highlights of Mallorca’s summer calendar. While visitors can expect concerts, cultural performances, children’s entertainment and community gatherings, the celebrations continue to reflect the authentic traditions that have been passed down through generations. One of the festival’s most popular attractions is its programme of traditional games, including climbing challenges that see children and adults attempt to scale a tall wooden pole as crowds gather in the village square. The event is a favourite with families and showcases the community spirit that defines the celebrations. The feast day of Sant Bartomeu on August 24 will also feature religious ceremonies, including a solemn mass in honour of the patron saint, alongside the festival’s lively entertainment programme.
Credit: Facebook/AjuntamentdeConsell
Music, tradition and family activities in Consell. Unlike many of Mallorca’s larger coastal events, the Festes de Sant Bartomeu offer visitors a chance to experience authentic village life, local traditions and genuine Mallorcan hospitality. With residents, returning families and visitors expected to fill the streets throughout the festivities, Consell is once again preparing to celebrate one of the island’s most cherished summer traditions.
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Alaro village festival Magaluf summer fiesta ONE of Mallorca’s most popular summer village festivals is set to return next week as Alaro celebrates the Festes de Sant Roc 2026, with almost two weeks of music, tradition and family entertainment. The annual festival honours the town’s patron saint, Sant Roc, but has become one of the island’s biggest traditional celebrations, attracting visitors from across Mallorca. Among the highlights is the Ball dels Cossiers, one of Mallorca’s oldest and most
colourful folk dances, performed through the streets in traditional costume to live music. Visitors can also enjoy giant figures, concerts, parades, children’s activities and outdoor entertainment throughout the programme. One of the most eagerly awaited events is the Correfoc, when costumed devils run through the streets carrying fireworks in a spectacular display of sparks, noise and fire. Spectators planning to join in are advised to wear long sleeves, sturdy footwear and avoid bringing
umbrellas. The celebrations end on Sunday, August 16, Sant Roc’s feast day, with traditional religious ceremonies and processions alongside the cultural festivities. Set in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, Alaro offers visitors the chance to combine the festival with a stroll through its historic streets or a visit to the nearby Castell d’Alaro. With most events free to attend, the festival promises a lively taste of authentic Mallorcan culture.
Credit: Facebook/Ajuntament de Alaro
Runs until August 16.
Credit:Idealista
The free celebrations will transform the public park on Calle Lope de Vega. MAGALUF is gearing up for three days of music, dancing, comedy and family fun as its annual summer fiestas return this weekend. Running from Friday, August 14, to Sunday, August 16, the free celebrations will transform the public park on Calle Lope de Vega into a lively community hub, with a different theme planned for each day. Friday kicks off with an Andalucian fiesta, including youth workshops from 7pm, followed by a performance from Casa de Andalucia and an outdoor dinner. Popular Mallorcan comedian Agustín ‘El Casta’ takes to the stage at 9.30pm, before live music from Isla Graná and a late-night Gipsy Kings tribute.
A special Mass for Magaluf’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Assumption, will also take place at Magaluf church at 7pm, accompanied by a floral offering and traditional ball de bot. Saturday turns back the clock with an 80s-themed party. Families can enjoy retro games, workshops and a photocall before DJs Charlie Eme and Juan Campos keep the celebrations going into the early hours. The weekend winds down with a children’s fiesta on Sunday, featuring water inflatables from 5pm, a foam party at 7pm and a performance by Alma Flamenca at 8pm. Organised by Calvia Council, all three days are free to attend.
Give us all a break LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT WHAT on earth is going on with the British police force? They continually gripe about being undermanned and ill equipped. They moan about being so weighed down with work they have been forced to downgrade ‘risk assessment’ of crimes to a ridiculous level and are constantly moaning that they simply ‘can’t cope’ with the latest crime figures. As legitimate as these claims may be, our precious plod does seem to find the time to, dance around maypoles, thread their boots with rainbow laces and appear in a whole host of police reality programmes! Well, whereas laces and prancing about may not be very time consuming, I can assure you reality programs most certainly are. There are SEVEN cop shows running at the moment, from cops in the sky to the most recent, which concerns seizing criminal’s assets. (Scraping the barrel comes
to mind!). Well, I’ve done a number of reality programmes (including a few I would rather forget!) And I can assure you they take forever. Every five minutes you see on the screen can take hours to shoot. The retakes alone can be unbelievably time consuming. How can these ‘overworked’, rushed-off-their-feet officers of the law possibly find the time to be ‘reality stars’? Another thing these shows are inclined to do is eat into the respect the public should hold for its upholders of law and order. Any aura of mystique or invincibility is stripped away by these programmes, which often show the utter contempt a small number of individuals have for the upholders of law and order. With the wide publicity television creates, public order and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown outcome their actions could bring. No, I’m sorry but respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like jumped up, ego tripping
American TV robo cops. Let’s all get back to the true reality. The fact that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on telly and signing autographs simply doesn’t hack it. It’s time the powers that be put a complete ban on all cop reality shows. Let’s restrict their TV appearances to announcements of successful conclusions to crime investigations. Now that’s the way to earn respect. I don’t know about you but I am also heartily sick of this entire ‘touchy-feely’ syndrome that seems to have crept into British sport. Even cricket which used to be such a wonderful stiff upper lip occasion now sees batsmen hurrying up to each other and touching fists after a particularly good shot. Doubles at tennis is another example of this ridiculous habit. In fact, they still fist each other when they actually lose a point. All this coupled with the orgasmic grunts just about sums up the whole caboodle of our modern. self-subsidising players. For heaven’s sake, give us all a break. Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
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Madrid Grand Prix Credit: Motorsport Photography F1
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
Madrid’s new Madring circuit will stage its inaugural Formula 1 weekend from September 11 to 13.
AT 3pm on Sunday, September 13, the finish line is due to be crossed at Madrid’s newest sporting attraction. Formula 1 will race at Madring for the first time, bringing the Spanish Grand Prix to a 5.4-kilometre circuit built around IFEMA and Valdebebas. The weekend begins on Friday September 11, with Formula 1 practice at 1.30pm and 5pm. A final practice session follows at 12.30pm on Saturday, before qualifying at 4pm. Formula 2 and Formula 3 will fill much of the space between the main sessions, with their own practice, qualifying and races spread across the weekend. The new circuit mixes permanent sections with public roads and contains 22 corners. Its showpiece is La Monumental, an almost 550-metre banked curve expected to be surrounded by tens of thousands of spectators. Anyone attending should plan around public transport as organisers say there will be no general parking at the circuit. Metro Line 8 stops at Feria de Madrid, while the C1 Cercanías train serves Valdebebas. Before the Grand Prix arrives, Formula 3 cars will test the track on August 24 and 25 as part of its final operational and safety preparations.
Phantom residency appointments PEOPLE trying to renew their residency in Spain thought they had found help online, but instead some paid €67.50 for an appointment that didn’t exist, then transferred the same amount again when told that their first payment had gone astray. The National Police have arrested a man in Barcelona accused of advertising a supposed administrative agency on social media. Conversations then moved to WhatsApp, where applicants allegedly received documents appearing to confirm their residency appointments and bank details for payment. The bookings were eventually discovered to be completely invalid. Police say some victims were also persuaded to pay twice because of invented banking problems. When they demanded their money back, they allegedly re-
Credit: simona pilolla 2 / shutterstock
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The alleged scheme moved from social media to WhatsApp before any money was transferred.
ceived false transfer receipts suggesting that a refund was being processed, in order to delay any complaints. The suspect is accused of fraud and document forgery, and was already wanted under several court orders from around Spain. Police have not said how many people were affected or revealed the total amount taken.
Official immigration appointment slots are free, although a legitimate lawyer or gestor can still charge for their services. Anyone recognising the payment pattern should contact their bank, preserve every message and receipt, and report the incident to police. Spain’s free 017 cybersecurity helpline can also provide advice.
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
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13 - 19 August 2026
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One of the biggest advantages of booking through TravelNova is the personalised service. Every holiday is treated as unique, with the team offering expert recommendations, practical advice and ongoing support before, during and after your trip. Their aim is simple - to ensure every journey is smooth, enjoyable and completely stress-free. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, organising a group holiday or planning the trip of a lifetime, TravelNova has the experience and industry knowledge to make your travel dreams a reality. Their friendly approach and attention to detail have earned them loyal customers who return year after year for trusted advice and exceptional service.
If you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, visit TravelNova by Tatiana Sapunova at Avenida Rei Jaume I 109, Local 4, Santa Ponsa. You can call 971 230 777, WhatsApp +34 619 025 433, or email info@travelnova.es to begin creating memories that will last a lifetime. Wherever you want to go, TravelNova is ready to take you there.
THOUSANDS of supporters gathered at De Adelaarshorst Stadium in Deventer for the opening weekend of the new Eredivisie season, but a dramatic pre-match incident stole the spotlight before a ball had been kicked. Ahead of the match between Go Ahead Eagles and Willem II, organisers arranged for a team of skydivers to deliver the match ball as part of the entertainment. However, one parachutist drifted off course during his descent. Instead of landing near the centre of the pitch, he headed towards one end of the stadium and was unable to regain control. The skydiver crashed into the goal structure and advertising boards surrounding the field, prompting audible gasps from supporters. For a
brief moment, many feared he had been seriously injured. As concern spread around the stadium, one television commentator remarked: “The first injury of the season is a fact, not of a player, but a parachutist.” Fortunately, the fears proved unfounded. Moments after the collision, the parachutist got back to his feet and raised his arms to the crowd, drawing cheers and applause from relieved fans. Footage of the incident quickly spread across social media, where football supporters reacted with a mixture of sympathy and humour. “I felt that. Damn,” wrote one viewer, while another commented: “Oof, that didn’t go quite as planned.” One fan joked: “There is such a big goal and you miss that too.”
Credit:Goaheadeagles/FB
Skydiver misses mark An interesting start to the match.
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
14 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
ADVERTISING FEATURE
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Getting away with murder in Spain - sort of! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
WITH today’s global uncertainty, is it surprising we’re drawn to TV crime dramas? Their mysteries, twists and memorable characters let us experience all the thrills of real life but none of the spills! And faced with such unpredictability we get solutions and closure. Whether it’s the UK’s ‘Line of Duty’ or Spain’s ‘Money Heist’ (‘La casa de papel’, a massive global phenomenon), ‘The Innocent’ (‘El inocente’), ‘I Know Who You Are’ (‘Sé quién eres’) or ‘Locked Up’ (‘Vis a vis’, the Spanish equivalent
to ‘Orange Is the New Black’). However, it’s not just crime drama that’s flourished. Readers have turned in droves to crime novels to see the good guys win and loose ends tied up and readers tell me this is what they like about my crime thrillers. The latest ‘The Girl in Red’ just published both on Kindle and in paperback and ‘The House of Secrets’ available soon in audiobook format - all culminating in an invitation for inclusion in the prestigious Book Riot’s 2026 Read Harder Challenge! All novels narrated as before by Rayner Bourton (‘Rocky’ in The Rocky Horror Show’s original London production). Thanks for all messages to my website below about this column (you’ve followed now for 17 years!) and my audiobooks (free audio samples on Amazon). Happy listening!
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Shipwrecked Guinness A MURKY bottle of Guinness that spent more than 160 years beneath the sea could help scientists recreate the pint enjoyed in Victorian Ireland. Divers discovered up to 20 bottles of stout among the cargo of a shipwreck around five kilometres off Dover during the summer of 2025. The vessel is believed to be the Mindora, which sank after a collision in November 1864 while travelling from London to Vancouver. Rather than risk tasting the contents and attempting to split the oldest G in history, expedition diver Stefan Panis and historical researcher Paweł Truszynski have launched ‘Project Jurassic Beer’. Professor Kevin Verstrepen, a brewing yeast specialist at KU Leuven in Belgium, will help exa-
mine the bottles. Finding living yeast after so long is quite unlikely, but surviving DNA could lead scientists to a closely related modern strain and allow them to brew something resembling the original stout. The Guinness Archive at St James’s Gate in Dublin is also hel-
ping the team assess the discovery and compare it with company records. There is still a little mystery attached. Historic documents differ over whether the ship was called Mindora or Mindoro, and its identity has not been formally confirmed. Nor has a tasting date been announced, so the Victorian pint remains tantalisingly out of reach.
Credit: Frederik Boving
Scientists hope the recovered yeast could help recreate the Guinness enjoyed in Victorian times.
FINANCE Ryanair sued
A TOTAL of 262 pilots have sued Ryanair for owed holiday pay. Ryanair often contract pilots through recruitment agencies, and argue independent pilots’ sick or holiday pay isn’t their responsibility. The lawsuit comes after Ryanair’s share price drops 16.52 per cent, as climbing fuel prices and slumping demand affect profits.
Streaming profits
SPOTIFY has recorded a net profit of €545 million in the second quarter of 2026, recovering losses of €86 million recorded in the previous fiscal year. Revenue increased 14 per cent to €4.7 billion, €4.3 billion of which came from paid “premium” subscriptions.
Preloved wedding
SECOND-HAND shopping is becoming increasingly popular, even for weddings. New data from Vinted shows searches for second-hand bridesmaid dresses are up 17 per cent. Many are trying to cut costs by buying pre-loved dresses, otherwise bridesmaids end up spending between £250 to £499 on the special day.
Heat losses
MORE than personal discomfort, frequent heatwaves can have a real effect on a country’s economy. According to Allianz Research, heat waves could reduce Spain’s GDP by 1.4 per cent. The loss is largely due to decreased productivity and increased pressure on infrastructure.
Reservations
INTERNATIONAL residents are expected to have empty stomachs and full wallets this August. Analysis by TheFork predicts tourists will account for 28 per cent of all restaurant reservations throughout the month. Comparatively, national tourism is expected to make up just 4 per cent.
euroweeklynews.com • 13 - 19 August 2026
STAT OF WEEK
Total spending by international tourists visiting Spain in June increased by 4.0 per cent, reaching €13.579 billion. Average daily spending rose by 0.7 per cent to €211, according to INE.
Exports hit all-time high ANDALUCIA has posted a new export record for the first five months of 2026, reaching €19 billion, up 3.8 per cent on the previous year. Malaga province set its own record with a 9.1 per cent increase, giving the Costa del Sol a strong boost to the regional figures. Spain as a whole recorded growth of just 1.3 per cent over the same period, leaving Andalucia well ahead. The region ended the period with a trade surplus of €900 million, while the national balance remained in deficit. Vegetables led exports at €2 billion, rising 15.7 per cent. Mineral fuels and the mining sector also performed strongly, with mining exports surging 80.2 per cent. Aeronautics increased 36.9 per cent to more than €1 billion, highlighting continued strength in high-value industry.
Airbus in Sevilla.
Germany remained the biggest export market at €2.5 billion, up 14.7 per cent. France, Italy and Portugal also recorded healthy growth, while exports to China jumped 64 per cent, opening new opportunities for Andalucian goods. Almeria and Cordoba joined Malaga in setting provincial export records, spreading growth across the region. Although Sevilla still handled the largest export volume, broader growth is creating
Social media sales SOCIAL MEDIA has changed almost every aspect of daily life, including purchasing habits. With the rise of social media came the demise of traditional marketing strategies - billboards, print ads, television adverts. Instead brands reach consumers where they’re at: online. It is estimated that European brands spend €35.5 billion a year on social media advertising, according to IAB Europe’s
Energy battle Credit: Junta
BUSINESS EXTRA
15
AdEx Benchmark Report. And one of their biggest demographics is teenagers and children, who almost use social media as a step-by-step guide on what to buy. Approximately 54 per cent of youths aged 12 to 15 find what they want to buy through social media. Another 24 per cent frequently watch unboxing or product review videos. But how will this marketing strategy, and consequently annual sales, change
opportunities for more businesses to expand. Stronger exports are expected to support jobs in logistics, aviation, food production and engineering. Firm demand across Europe, together with rising exports to China, underlines the appeal of Andalucian products. Officials monitor the figures through Andalucia Trade and the national trade ministry, with the latest results providing further confidence in the regional economy. Credit: Basilico Studio Stock/ Shutterstock
Teenagers use social media to figure out what to buy.
as governments across Europe take steps to limit under-16s social media use? Experts predict toys, fashion and beauty sectors to be the most impacted.
Crop crisis
Tax the banks
Purchase power
THE weekly grocery bill is set to get even more expensive, as farmers across Europe warn of a slump in food production. Extreme heat, wildfires and drought have all impacted the annual harvest, leading the EU to cut harvest predictions by 7 per cent. In Spain, it is expected the cereal crop will drop from 24 million tonnes to less than 18.5 million tonnes. Olive groves have been amongst the hardest hit, once again driving olive oil price rises.
AS Prime Minister Andy Burnham looks to tackle the cost of living crisis, there has been renewed demand to tax UK banks to help fund his agenda. The outcry also comes off the back of the UK’s biggest banks raking in a collective £29.2 billion in profit in the first half of 2026. Campaigners believe a windfall tax on this lucrative banking business could raise £19 billion, which would go towards the government’s October budget.
A BIGGER pay packet does not always mean a better standard of living. Across Europe, purchasing power offers a clearer picture of what minimum wage earners can actually afford once living costs are taken into account. While Luxembourg still tops the rankings for nominal pay, Spain performs far better when adjusted for purchasing power. It sits alongside France, Slovenia and Poland, with minimum wages worth more than 1,500 purchasing power standards (PPS). Findings from Eurostat highlight how lower living costs can boost workers’ spending power, proving that headline salaries alone do not tell the full story.
SPANISH supermarkets have declared war on the energy drink business. Two of Spain’s biggest chains - Carrefour and Mercadona - are taking advantage of the demand to sell their own branded beverages 40 per cent cheaper than Coca-Cola’s Monster, the most popular brand on the market. Energy drinks are big businesses. Annual sales grew 38 per cent in the last four years, reaching €298 million in 2025 with Spaniards buying approximately 105 million litres. However, new age restrictions could cut into profits.
Lease increase LEASING companies in Spain have invested heavily to expand fleets, spending €5.8 billion since January 2026. According to AER data, 235,388 new vehicles have been registered by leasing companies, 10.2 per cent more than in 2025. Strong investment is a positive sign of high demand. In fact, leasing a car is becoming a popular alternative to personal vehicle ownership, accounting for approximately 26.5 per cent of registered vehicles on the road.
Poetry boom THE hype around Christopher Nolan’s newest blockbuster, The Odyssey, has breached the Box Office, helping UK poetry sales reach record highs. After leaving the cinema, many movie-goers are seemingly heading to the bookshop. So far in 2026, poetry sales have increased by 13.3 per cent to £8 million. If momentum continues, sales could reach £17 million by the end of the year. UK print sales for the Odyssey increased by 1,400 per cent after the film’s release.
FINANCE
16 13 - 19 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 10 August
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Closing Prices 10 August
Net
3I Group.....................................2.847,00............2.877,00......... 2.835,00......... 223,21K Admiral Group............................3.943,80............3.962,00......... 3.884,00......... 111,67K Airtel Africa................................. 328,52................332,2............... 325............. 368,69K Anglo American..........................4.005,00............4.018,00......... 3.950,00......... 366,19K Antofagasta................................3.994,00............4.001,00......... 3.931,00......... 175,28K Associated British Foods............2.103,00............2.127,00......... 2.097,00.......... 76,56K AstraZeneca..............................12.012,40..........12.096,00....... 11.898,00........ 536,86K Auto Trader Group Plc................. 518,8.................520,4..............512,6........... 284,25K Aviva............................................ 715,6.................715,8..............706,4........... 817,15K B M European Value Retail........... 234,4...................236................. 232............. 261,71K BAE Systems..............................2.231,00............2.249,00......... 2.201,00.......... 845,3K Barclays....................................... 521,7...................522................514,5.............5,52M Barratt Redrow............................. 318,4.................319,1..............316,1.............3,93M Beazley.......................................1.292,00............1.295,50......... 1.291,00.......... 620,9K Berkeley.....................................3.574,00............3.574,00......... 3.492,00.......... 17,53K BP................................................ 519,6.................526,8..............518,3.............4,01M British American Tobacco..........4.446,00............4.454,00......... 4.341,00......... 258,07K BT Group..................................... 197,9.................200,8............... 197...............3,34M Bunzl..........................................2.860,00............2.860,00......... 2.826,00.......... 80,66K Centrica..........................................153..................154,3..............152,1.............1,74M Coca Cola HBC AG.....................4.992,00............5.000,00......... 4.898,00.......... 65,91K Compass....................................... 32,4..................32,64..............32,19........... 152,76K ConvaTec Group............................233..................233,6..............226,4.............1,84M Croda Intl...................................3.304,00............3.340,00......... 3.276,00.......... 62,81K DCC............................................6.375,00............6.380,00......... 6.370,00.......... 22,38K Diageo........................................1.792,60............1.800,00......... 1.717,50...........2,02M Diploma.....................................7.740,00............7.740,00......... 7.655,00......... 148,28K EasyJet......................................... 667,2...................674...............665,74............6,64M Entain.............................................537....................540................531,8........... 383,06K Experian.....................................2.854,00............2.859,00......... 2.821,00......... 848,45K F&C Invest.....................................344..................344,4..............342,8........... 240,54K Flutter Entertainment..................7.588,00............7.718,00......... 7.536,00...............0 Frasers...........................................811....................825................. 804............... 3,35K Fresnillo.....................................2.889,00............2.913,00......... 2.803,00......... 336,98K Glencore....................................... 560,2................568,55.............558,8.............4,33M GSK plc......................................1.962,50............1.970,50......... 1.931,00...........1,11M HALEON....................................... 372,1.................372,1............... 369...............1,79M Halma.........................................3.832,00............3.832,00......... 3.762,00.......... 66,56K Hikma Pharma...........................1.712,00............1.717,00......... 1.671,00......... 167,56K Hiscox........................................1.833,20............1.838,00......... 1.804,00.......... 215,9K Howden Joinery.............................834..................835,5..............827,5............ 39,22K HSBC.........................................1.535,80............1.536,80......... 1.519,60...........4,37M IAG............................................... 444,6.................445,1..............439,1.............1,98M ICG PLC.....................................2.030,00............2.032,00......... 2.012,00.......... 67,82K IMI PLC......................................3.126,00............3.138,00......... 3.100,00......... 178,42K Imperial Brands..........................2.788,00............2.788,00......... 2.750,00......... 214,57K Informa........................................ 903,4.................908,4............... 899............. 282,08K InterContinental........................... 158,1.................158,4..............156,4............ 32,81K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek.......................................5.835,00............5.840,00......... 5.835,00.......... 26,91K J Sainsbury.................................. 351,6.................353,3.............349,79.......... 551,03K JD Sports Fashion........................ 95,06.................95,42..............93,48.............3,38M Kingfisher..................................... 327,1.................327,1..............322,4........... 437,45K Land Securities............................ 711,5.................712,5............... 706............. 388,24K Legal & General.......................... 315,92..................316................308,8.............4,53M Lloyds Banking............................ 115,9...................116...............113,95...........22,75M London Stock Exchange.............8.972,00............8.978,00......... 8.718,00......... 264,98K Londonmetric Property................ 194,4.................195,9..............192,5.............1,51M M&G............................................ 365,6.................365,7..............360,9........... 531,01K Marks & Spencer........................ 405,75................407,7..............402,4.............1,28M Melrose Industries....................... 480,9.................482,9............... 476............. 371,38K Mondi........................................... 906,8...................927................902,6............ 57,19K National Grid..............................1.194,71............1.196,25......... 1.183,00............1,3M NatWest Group..............................717..................717,6..............704,2.............2,94M Next..........................................15.805,00..........15.820,00....... 15.625,00......... 29,81K Pearson......................................1.225,50............1.238,50......... 1.224,50......... 147,45K Pershing Square........................3.920,00............3.938,00......... 3.888,00.......... 49,08K Persimmon................................1.143,00............1.151,70......... 1.133,00......... 464,54K Prudential...................................1.052,00............1.053,00......... 1.023,50...........1,13M Reckitt Benckiser.......................5.284,00............5.288,00......... 5.242,00......... 149,29K Relx............................................2.614,50............2.638,00......... 2.588,00......... 876,29K Rentokil....................................... 359,05................360,2.............355,23............6,63M Rightmove................................... 476,4.................478,9.............468,35.......... 521,13K Rio Tinto PLC.............................7.455,00............7.515,00......... 7.439,00.......... 313,7K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.546,40............1.550,40......... 1.526,20...........1,44M Sage...........................................1.036,50............1.046,94......... 1.021,50......... 512,94K Schroders.................................... 583,5...................584................. 583............. 145,95K Scottish Mortgage......................1.377,00............1.378,00......... 1.365,00......... 294,17K Segro.............................................964..................965,8..............953,6........... 567,93K Severn Trent..............................3.106,00............3.112,00......... 3.080,00.......... 36,16K Shell...........................................3.294,00............3.330,00......... 3.283,00.......... 895,3K Smith & Nephew........................1.110,00............1.110,50......... 1.098,00......... 827,51K Smiths Group.............................2.717,00............2.717,05......... 2.691,00......... 192,92K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........7.489,70............7.495,00......... 7.369,50.......... 47,75K SSE............................................2.368,00............2.383,00......... 2.357,00......... 202,18K Standard Chartered....................2.216,00............2.216,00......... 2.187,00......... 432,03K Standard Life................................ 941,5.................941,5..............927,5........... 252,46K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,14.................83,96..............82,94.............2,61M Tesco........................................... 471,9................475,51.............470,1.............2,93M Unilever......................................4.697,00............4.703,50......... 4.659,50............412K Unite..............................................537....................537................. 532............. 194,41K United Utilities............................1.423,00............1.427,00......... 1.410,00......... 127,52K Vistry Group................................. 275,2.................281,6..............272,2........... 237,99K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 119,85................120,2.............118,65...........13,65M Weir Group................................2.702,00............2.704,00......... 2.682,00.......... 71,91K Whitbread..................................2.510,00............2.523,00......... 2.490,30........... 48,4K WPP............................................. 393,3...................396................379,7.............2,56M
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 180,71................183,5.............179,46............2,55M Amazon.com............................... 272,26...............275,48............271,06...........30,67M American Express........................ 342,6...................350...............342,07............2,77M Amgen........................................ 404,85................418,4..............401,2.............2,61M Apple........................................... 312,41...............316,29............309,23...........46,14M Boeing......................................... 232,19...............240,37............231,33............7,13M Caterpillar.................................... 856,96...............879,33............856,96.............2,9M Chevron...................................... 189,23...............189,78............187,02............7,18M Cisco........................................... 120,88...............122,19.............119,9............14,05M Coca-Cola..................................... 86,85.................87,97..............86,42............13,57M Goldman Sachs..........................1.032,58............1.068,04......... 1.030,78...........1,73M Home Depot................................ 349,52...............353,55............347,51............2,62M Honeywell................................... 240,74..................250...............239,93............5,04M IBM............................................. 233,43...............234,47............228,44............4,25M J&J............................................. 256,98...............262,11............255,28............6,93M JPMorgan.................................... 356,3................362,81............354,95............5,82M McDonald’s................................. 276,26...............276,83............271,76............4,21M Merck&Co................................... 128,37...............131,08.............127,8.............7,05M Microsoft.................................... 499,86...............501,56............488,52...........36,44M Nike.................................................42...................42,64..............41,85............18,15M NVIDIA........................................ 218,99...............223,63.............. 217.............113,94M P&G............................................ 146,97................148,5.............145,45............8,77M Salesforce Inc............................. 186,77...............187,02.............. 183...............13,3M Sherwin-Williams........................ 363,42...............371,53............362,13............1,88M The Travelers.................................386.................386,59............382,25............1,48M UnitedHealth............................... 403,97...............416,97.............402,4.............4,71M Verizon......................................... 46,99.................47,48..............46,58.............24,3M Visa A.......................................... 370,47................371,1.............365,25............5,02M Walmart...................................... 112,07...............114,56............111,04............23,2M Walt Disney................................. 104,68...............104,73............102,52...........14,05M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 10 August
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced TEN Holdings.................................................. 252,20 %........................68,98M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR......................... 194,28 %........................57,78M ClearOne......................................................... 166,30 %........................69,45M Creative Medical Tech Holdings....................... 71,92 %.........................272,9M Gauzy............................................................... 67,81 %........................234,25M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 58,42 %.........................69,98M Zenta................................................................ 47,79 %..........................2,32M Wearable Devices............................................. 46,71 %..........................8,29M Surgepays........................................................ 45,66 %.........................273,8M Ensysce Biosciences........................................ 44,83 %........................498,05M Iovance Biotherapeutics................................... 43,09 %.........................73,43M Honest Company.............................................. 40,78 %..........................20,1M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................ 40,12 %.........................31,36M Insmed............................................................. 33,86 %.........................12,04M Oportun Financial............................................. 32,84 %..........................2,45M Hertz Global Holdings...................................... 29,49 %........................155,82M Paysign............................................................ 29,30 %..........................3,33M Aeva Technologies........................................... 28,81 %..........................8,43M 5E Advanced Materials..................................... 27,94 %........................630,33K M - Million Dollars
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Declined YXT.Com Holding ADR....................................-66,07 %..........................3,25M ThredUp...........................................................-50,48 %.........................22,34M Vsee Health......................................................-39,84 %..........................5,75M BillionToOne.....................................................-38,89 %..........................3,75M Recon Technology...........................................-34,12 %..........................81,6M Biovie...............................................................-33,82 %..........................8,78M Commerce.com................................................-31,96 %..........................6,09M XCHG Ltd ADR.................................................-30,26 %.........................15,46M LegalZoom.com...............................................-30,00 %.........................13,06M Inseego............................................................-28,60 %..........................1,93M Olenox Industries.............................................-27,93 %........................157,54K biote Corp........................................................-27,88 %........................704,97K Context Therapeutics.......................................-27,27 %..........................4,34M Reitar Logtech Holdings...................................-26,72 %.........................27,12M Akebia Ther......................................................-26,05 %.........................17,69M Tripadvisor.......................................................-25,52 %.........................11,26M AiRWA.............................................................-25,51 %.........................58,74M Advantage Solutions........................................-23,26 %........................305,44K Honeywell Aerospace.......................................-23,16 %.........................20,63M M - Million Dollars
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
22
20 13 - 19 August 2026
FEATURE
euroweeklynews.com
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Birthday blended with giving
Summer surge
LOCAL favourite and Hollywood star Antonio Banderas marked his 66th birthday at the 17th Starlite Occident Gala, held under the stars in Marbella’s historic Nagueles quarry. The evening fused a 1970s hippy theme with a serious charitable mission. Banderas struck a reflective tone. “Peace and love is now a slogan that unfortunately makes very little sense in the world we are living in,” he said, signalling a shift from glamour to purpose. At midnight, Plácido Domingo led the room in singing Happy Birthday. In a spontaneous move, Banderas donated the very shirt he was wearing, painted by his own hand, to the charity auction. Proceeds support the Starlite Foundation’s work with Niños en Alegria, Cudeca and Lagrimas y Favores, Banderas’s own foundation.
TORREVIEJA is bursting into life this August, with new estimates suggesting as many as 438,000 people could be staying in the city at the height of the summer season. With around 113,000 residents registered on the municipal population roll, the figures mean Torrevieja is effectively becoming almost four times its normal size. The estimates come from a technical report prepared for Torrevieja Town Hall, providing a striking picture of just how dramatically the community changes each summer. July’s equivalent population is estimated at around 414,000, rising to 438,000 during August. Even in September, around 348,000 people could still be using the city’s homes, streets and services. Torrevieja’s huge number of second homes plays a major role. The municipality has more than 62,000 of them, while only around 1,600 hotel places are available across 14 hotels.
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Almeria
Shocking pink
Pride in full colour
BEACHGOERS on Cotobro beach in Almuñecar received an unexpected surprise one Saturday in July around 11am when a rare pink visitor landed on the shoreline. A greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) touched down near the water, prompting astonished onlookers to pause and film the creature before it took off a few minutes later. Local resident Álvaro Martín captured the moment on video, noting that everyone stopped to watch the bird. Footage shared on social media rapidly spread among residents who missed the brief spectacle. Greater flamingos are renowned for their long legs, curved bills, and vivid pink plumage, which derives from their diet of crustaceans and algae. The birds typically favour shallow saline lagoons and coastal wetlands over open Mediterranean beaches. In Granada province, flamingos are usually seen only as passing visitors, making a direct landing on Cotobro beach particularly unusual.
VERA demonstrated its pride in true technicolour, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with an outrageously bright and festive parade. The 2026 Vera Playa Pride Parade marks a decade of advocacy. More than a bright party atmosphere, this march through the streets represents the importance of diversity and respect, positioning the freedom to live and love authentically as a basic right that should be afforded to all. Anticipation was high in the days leading up to the landmark event, especially as the parade was postponed out of respect for the Los Gallardos wildfire. Thousands flooded the streets in support. Some followed the route in cars, soft tops down and music blaring. Others partied on elaborately decorated floats. Hundreds more followed on foot, until the parade arrived at Playa Vera Hotel, where Rafa Lopez took to the stage to deliver the traditional Pride Proclamation.
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Costa Calida
Miles that matter
Lagoon love
BENIDORM became part of a deeply moving nationwide challenge when Madrid firefighter Jaime Domínguez Ibáñez ran 42 kilometres through the resort to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health. Known as JimmyGo, the ultrarunner was joined by local athletes and Marina Baixa firefighters as he tackled a route taking in Poniente and Levante beaches before finishing outside Benidorm City Hall. The marathon was one stage of his ‘Break the Silence’ campaign. Domínguez has pledged to run 3,953 kilometres across Spain, one for every person who died by suicide in the country in 2024. Along the way, he carries a ‘torch of silence’, filled with names and messages dedicated to people lost to suicide. Benidorm also hosted a talk about the campaign, giving residents the chance to hear the personal story behind his mission. For JimmyGo, every exhausting kilometre carries the same message: silence should never stand in the way of asking for help.
IN a symbolic gesture of solidarity, thousands of residents and visitors gathered at the beaches of Los Alcazares to form a massive human chain in order to call for a “living Mar Menor.” This peaceful protest, which has now been ongoing for six consecutive summers, took place primarily at the Los Espejos beach, with hundreds of residents expressing their commitment to protecting this unique ecosystem, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe. The beaches were alive with activity. Banners displaying slogans, as well as the seahorse, which has long represented the Mar Menor, could be seen all along the human chain. Over the years, the protests bloomed from small local gatherings on the idyllic beaches of the Region of Murcia to become a global movement, supported by more than 140 international organisations.
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CATS can squeeze into impossibly tight spaces because their collarbones are unattached to other bones. Instead, the feline clavicle is buried in muscle, allowing their shoulders to fold inward. If a cat’s head can fit through a gap, their incredibly flexible skeletal structure ensures the rest of their body follows.
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Clean ears, happy dog HEALTHY ears are an important part of your dog’s overall wellbeing, but they’re often overlooked until a problem appears. Regular checks can help you spot issues early and keep your four-legged friend comfortable. Start by looking inside your dog’s ears once a week. Healthy ears should be clean, pale pink and free from strong odours. A small amount of wax is perfectly normal, but redness, swelling, excessive wax or an unpleasant smell could point to an infection or ear mites. When it comes to cleaning, always use a dog-friendly ear cleaner recommended by your vet. Gently apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for a few seconds, then let your dog shake their head before wiping away any loosened debris. There are a few things you should avoid. Never insert cotton buds into your dog’s ear canal, as they can push wax deeper inside or even cause injury. Household products, alcohol and hydrogen
Check ears regularly.
peroxide should also stay well away from your pet’s ears as they may irritate the delicate skin. Dogs with floppy ears or those that enjoy swimming may need more frequent ear checks, as
Liquid cats
moisture can encourage infections. If your dog is scratching their ears constantly, shaking their head or seems uncomfortable, arrange a visit to your vet rather than attempting to treat the problem yourself.
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SPORT
Equestrian excellence
Estrella 17
Equestrian excellence on show in Mallorca. The action did not stop there. Agusti Sastre added another victory to the final day, taking the 1.25m Fabiola Fruchaud Trophy with North Star. Guillermo Bouzas also finished on a high, winning the 1.15m Ajuntament de Bunyola final aboard Ueleme de la Coste.
With competitive sport from the opening rounds through to the final jump, the Infanta Elena Trophy once again delivered a compelling showcase for show jumping in Mallorca, with Morro and MV Grapemint Kiss taking the biggest prize of the week.
MALLORCAN endurance athlete Bernat Xamena is preparing to push the limits with an extraordinary challenge: completing 17 Ironman-distance triathlons in just 17 days to raise vital funds for childhood cancer research. The ambitious campaign, known as Estrella 17, combines elite endurance sport with a powerful charitable mission. Beginning in September, Xamena will take on an Ironman every day as he travels across Spain, coveVernat Xamena to run 17 triathlons in 17 days. ring all 17 autonomous communities before returning to Mallorca for an additio- CELVIR 2.0 clinical trial at Madrid’s nal finish. Niño Jesús University Children’s Each event includes a 3.8km Hospital, helping researchers deveswim, 180km cycle and a full mara- lop new treatments for some of the thon, making the challenge one of most aggressive childhood brain the toughest ever attempted by a cancers. Spanish athlete. For Xamena, the challenge is The initiative has been launched about far more than crossing finish by the L’estrella de na Marta asso- lines. Every stroke, pedal and striciation, created in memory of Mar- de is intended to inspire hope, raita, a young girl who lost her life to se awareness and prove that sport an aggressive brain tumour. Every can be a powerful force in the fight euro raised will support the ALO- against childhood cancer. Credit: Bernat Xavier Xamena Vidal / Facebook
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MARINA MORRO signed off the Infanta Elena Trophy in style, producing the winning round in the competition’s feature class to claim the spotlight at the Royal Club School of Equestrian Art of Mallorca (RCEEM). The 42nd edition of the prestigious show jumping event drew to a close in Mallorca after four days of competition, with riders battling for victory across a packed programme of classes. Morro and MV Grapemint Kiss proved the combination to beat in the 1.35m Infanta Elena Trophy. The pair held their nerve when it mattered, securing the top spot ahead of Miah Yolie Martinez and Voyelle du Lesme, who finished second. Mario Muñoz and MV Laniki completed the podium in third.
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Mallorca serves MALLORCA is preparing to welcome the second edition of the Mallorca Women’s Championships this October, reinforcing the island’s growing reputation as a destination for top class international sport. The WTA 125 tournament will take place from October 10 to 18 in Calvia, bringing together rising stars and established players from across the women’s game. This year’s event will see all competitive matches played in Magaluf, creating a vibrant atmosphere for spectators while making the action more accessible. Meanwhile, the Mallorca Country Club in Santa Ponsa will host VIP hospitality, player meet and greets and tennis clinics, giving fans plenty of oppor-
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24 13 - 19 August 2026
Women’s tennis returns to Mallorca in October. tunities to get closer to the sport. Tournament organisers say the championship is about more than world class tennis. It also highlights Calvia as an attractive year-round destination, helping to extend tourism beyond the traditional summer season while supporting the local economy. Former world number three Gabrie-
la Sabatini will once again serve as tournament ambassador, adding further prestige to the event. With exciting young talent, a stunning Mediterranean setting and a packed programme on and off the court, the Mallorca Women’s Championships promises to be one of the island’s sporting highlights this autumn.