Olive Press Costa Blanca Issue 160

DOPEY DECISION

FOOTBALL’S newest superstar

Lamine Yamal has finally turned 18 –but his ‘gangster-themed’ birthday has been overshadowed by his choice of entertainment.

The youngster finds himself facing investigation by Spain’s prosecution office for the decision to hire four dwarves for his big bash.

The event, held in a restaurant just outside Barcelona where mobile phones were banned, featured teammates Gavi and Robert Lewandowski, as well as short-statured Dominican DJ and rapper Chimbala and host of other musicians.

The ADEE, an association that champions dwarves’ rights, claims that short-statured people were deliberately hired for 'show' in a move that 'feeds stereotypes', and are now threatening legal action.

Ridicule

The Spanish government has even weighed in on the controversy, demanding to know whether the show used dwarves to ‘provoke ridicule.’

"We are concerned that people with money and power believe they can go unpunished," said Jesus Martin, the government’s director of Disability Affairs. However, one of the dwarves (pictured arriving at the party below) reportedly told local radio: "No one disrespected us, let us work in peace. We're normal people, who do what we want, in an absolutely legal way.” Yamal (left) has yet to comment on the furore.

Heat builds as Spain’s Prime Minister accused of ‘living off father-in-law’s brothels and gay saunas’

PRIME minister Pedro Sanchez has been accused of benefitting from a network of brothels and gay saunas allegedly run by his late father-inlaw.

In lurid claims that ripped open a previously taboo topic, the leader of the opposition even asked if the premiere had lived in a flat in Madrid bought from the profits of the prostitution business.

PP boss Alberto Nunez Feijoo indicated the father of wife Begoña Gomez had bought the property after selling his shares in a gay brothel called Sauna Adan.

According to reports, Sabiniano Gomez and his brothers ran nine brothels from 1989 to 2006, the year that Sanchez and his wife got married.

Their company San Bernardo 36 SL

By Ben Pawlowski

allegedly managed the Adan sauna, as well as the brothel Roses Girl, in Madrid, and seven others, some outside the city.

Another was Sauna Bar, located a short walk from the Bernabeu stadium – home to Real Madrid – where ‘the girls emerged on drugs and semi-naked.’

Right-wing investigators also claim that the prime minister’s wife undertook book-keeping in at least one brothel, while the couple acquired three properties from the profits.

Pimps

One of these is a holiday home in Mojacar, in Almeria, bought by Begoña from the

MASSAGE: The Sauna bar in Madrid developed a notorious reputation

company San Bernardo 36 SL, in 2013. Another is a luxurious three-bedroom home, valued at €700,000 in upmarket Pozuelo, where the couple lived before Sanchez became Prime Minister in 2018. The most explo-

BOILING POINT

sive claims centre around illegal links to Romanian pimps and claims that prostitutes were forcibly made to work.

At one brothel, Kilometro Ochenta, managed by Begoña’s uncle Francisco Gomez, a human trafficking probe in 2016 led to sentences of 20 years, including a three-year sentence for the manager.

Begoña’s father, who has since died, officially sold his stake in the company in 2006 so as not to harm his son-in-law’s political career.

The sleazy links have now emerged during a debate in Congress over the corruption allegations engulfing Sanchez’s minority government.

In the debate on Friday, Feijoo described the socialist leader as a ‘lucrative participant in the abominable business of prostitution’, before asking: “What brothels have you lived off?” The accusation sparked angry scenes as the session descended into a shouting match, with one PSOE MP insisting the claims were ‘crossing a red line’.

The PP leader insisted the line of questioning was legitimate, particularly as the government is seeking to abolish prostitution in Spain. However, Spain’s National Court previously ruled in 2024 that there was no evidence the establishments were brothels, according to Cadena Ser, and went on to slam the allegations as a ‘deplorable partisan’ smear.

Nonetheless, they put considerable pressure on Sanchez, who has so far resisted calls for a general election amid a series of recent scandals linked to corruption.

Scandal

He has come under intense pressure since his former right-hand man, Santos Cerdan, was arrested on suspicion of bribery, criminal conspiracy and influence peddling. The charges relate to alleged kickbacks on €500 million of public works contracts that involve Cerdan, the former minister of transport Jose Luis Abalos, and former aide Koldo Garcia.

The scandal worsened after audio recordings were released involving Abalos and Garcia discussing sharing prostitutes. They deny wrong-

SMEARED: Spain’s Pedro Sanchez (left) faces allegations from opposition leader Albert Nunez Feijoo (right)

Monday shaker

A MAJOR earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale off the Murcia-Almeria coast was felt across large parts of eastern Spain on Monday morning.

Killer heat

107 PEOPLE in the Valencia region suffered heat-related deaths in the first fortnight of July, compared to just ten in the same period in 2024.

Drugged up

A THIRD of drug tests carried out on Alicante province motorists in June turned out to be positive with 209 drivers facing prosecution.

Rubbish demo

OVER 200 people protested outside Alicante City Hall over ‘inadequate’ road cleaning and waste collection services despite an extra €8m being spent per year.

Serial burglar

A MOLDOVAN national has been charged with robbing 15 homes and breaking into two cars in Benissa, Teulada, and Calpe.

The one-man crime wave started in Moraira towards the end of last year after the Guardia Civil learnt about several break-ins.

The 35-year-old acted at night, having previously ensured that properties were empty and covered his face to make it difficult to

identify him on security cameras. He switched his attention to Benissa in early 2025 with a dozen robberies.

His mistake was being spotted by Guardia patrols prowling around urbanisations in the early morning where he planned to strike later.

The burglar was identified and arrested at his Calpe home with numerous stolen objects recovered as well as two firearms.

He was jailed by a Denia judge.

Ocean’s Eleven on the Costa Blanca

A NINE-strong crew pulled off a string of audacious bank robberies fit for a Hollywood movie – but were dramatically taken down before they could ride off into the sunset with their ill-gotten gains. They had the gadgets, the getaway cars, and the plan – but this wasn’t Danny Ocean’s Las Vegas.

This was rural Spain, where a sophisticated nine-person heist crew has finally been brought down after pulling off 13 robberies that would make George Clooney proud.

Spanish police have smashed what reads like a real-life heist movie, with simultaneous raids across 11 homes and seven garages from Torrevieja to Madrid. They took in over €100,000 in

Ingenious

bank robbers meet their match after pulling off string

By Alex Trelinski

cash, an arsenal of weapons, high-tech frequency jammers, professional safe-cracking tools, and five luxury stolen cars.

But these weren’t your average smash-and-grab merchants.

Since November 2024, the gang had perfected a masterclass in misdirection that would leave even Brad Pitt’s Rusty impressed. Their signature move was pure Hollywood genius.

First, they’d deliberately trigger a bank’s alarm by breaking down the front door – but not before secretly changing the

of heists

main lock.

Then they’d vanish into the shadows, watching through strategically placed surveillance cameras as confused security guards arrived, found nothing, and left.

Once the coast was clear, the criminals simply strolled back in using their new key, disabled the alarm system, wiped the CCTV footage of their first ‘visit,’ and got down to the real business of cracking safes with professional tools.

The crew targeted smalltown banks with quick escape routes, using stolen luxury vehicles with fake plates that were stashed in remote garages, warehouses, and iso-

lated farms.

Before each job, they’d rent rural properties as temporary headquarters – their very own safe house where they’d plan, prep, and later divvy up the spoils.

They boasted professional safe-busters and specialist getaway drivers, but met their match in coordinated takedown by the Guardia Civil and Policia Nacional.

They swept through the Vega Baja region, hitting locations in Torrevieja, Los Montesinos, Benejuzar, Orihuela, and Jacarilla.

Six arrests were made locally, with three more in Madrid, bringing the curtain down on what had been an impressive – if doomed –criminal enterprise.

Sex

doing. Sanchez’s wife and his brother meanwhile are also under investigation for corruption after complaints were raised by a ring-wing trade union Manos Limpias. He attempted to stave off the calls for his resignation, by launching a 15-point plan designed to strengthen anti-corruption measures, last week.

Resign

However, it appears to be a losing battle with a poll by Cadena SER and El Pais, which normally supports the government, revealing the majority of Spaniards believe Sanchez, once hailed as el guapo (the handsome one) of Spanish politics, should either resign or call an election.

Former socialist leader Felipe Gonzalez waded in claiming Sanchez should step aside for a new PSOE leader.

“He has a level of authority unmatched by any prime minister…he has no power at all,” insisted Gonzalez, 83, who was the leader of Spain for 14 years.

Sanchez’s minority government is dependent on the support of Catalan and Basque separatists and farleft Sumar.

For conditions, visit lobster.es

Prem paradise

MARBELLA has once again welcomed a host of football royalty and big hitters in this summer’s off-season.

Last year Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, the heroes of

A who’s who of famous footballers once again flock to Marbella this summer

By Ben Pawlowski

Spain’s victorious la Seleccion, were mobbed by fans as they holidayed in Puerto

Banus after their Euro 2024 final win against England. But that experience doesn’t appear to have fazed Barcelona star Yamal, with the teenage sensation recently spotted at a popular beach club. The wonderkidwho finally turned 18 on Sunday - was pictured relaxing at Nao Pool Club in Nueva Andalucia. While Yamal was unwinding in the sun at the luxury club, out-of-favour Manchester United attacker Marcus Rashford was mak-

ing use of Marbella’s state-ofthe-art sport facilities to get back in shape.

In an attempt to secure a move away from his boyhood club, the forward posted photos of himself sweating away in the Costa del Sol sunshine. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s star forward Erling Haaland was spotted in Puerto Banus after returning from the Club World Cup in the US.

Haaland is a regular visitor to Marbella and was even filmed

handing police his ID after getting caught up in a police raid at one beach club last summer.

The Norwegian recently bought a mega €7million mansion on the resort’s celebrated Golden Mile after putting to pen-to-paper on a huge ten-year deal with City which will net the star €300million over the next decade.

Elsewhere, Arsenal teammates Kai Havertz and Martin Ode-

MULLINS IT OVER

gaard were seen relaxing in Marbella over the weekend.

Norwegian maestro Odegaard is no stranger to Spain, having spent seven years with Real Madrid after signing for the giants aged just 16.

It is unknown whether the Gunners pair were around to attend the nuptials of former disgraced teammate Thomas Partey.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian was reported to be getting married to British model Janine Mackson in Marbella

over the weekend.

It comes just after the midfielder was charged with five counts of rape and a sexual assault against three women back home.

Numerous other famous stars have been in the resort over the last month, including ex-Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie, Ross Barclay, of Aston Villa, Curtis Jones, of Liverpool, Riyad Mahrez (ex Manchester City), Mikey Moore, of Tottenham and Harry Winks, of Leicester.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIFE IN THE UK AND LIFE IN SPAIN, WRITES CHARLIE MULLINS

BOOMTIME IN SPAIN

SINCE I moved to Spain, I’ve never for a moment thought it was the wrong move.

But it’s a nice bit of validation to see businesses here bursting with life – while in the UK Labour has reduced the economy to life-support.

Last year, Spain’s dynamic economy grew by 3.2%, almost four-times the euro-zone average, and triplefold what the sad UK managed – just a paltry 1.1%.

And I’ve just read (in the Olive Press , of course) that Spain has now overtaken South Korea and even Japan in the GDP per capita rankings. It comes as no surprise – the place is buzzing.

Tourism is rocketing and local demand for goods and services has shops, bars and restaurants crammed packed with people who are just so enthusiastic about life. Spain is defi nitely the place to do business right now, and the world’s global elite are joining the tourists fl ocking towards the sun with cash to invest and an eye on healthy profits.

I’ve joined the local economy on the property side of things, but I’m not ruling out bringing my family’s new company – the WeFix Team – out here for a better business environment.

I love it in Spain. I have been coming here for 20 years, but after moving here a year ago I think I understand the culture and the way things work here.

I think what Spain has going for it is a unique mix of locals and ex-pats from all over the planet, Russians, French, Italian, even the odd Aussie,

After moving here myself, I might even relocate my new family enterprise to business-friendly Spain

Basic

and us Brits like me of course. And what’s more, people – and I’m including the government here –want people to succeed. Sure, there’s the Spanish national sport of producing red tape and strange rules, but once you get used to it, there’s always a work-around and things get done. And the attitude to business and success is much more like the US than the UK.

This morning I did an interview for the BBC where they asked me my thoughts on the UK Government’s idea to bring in a wealth tax. The other guest on the show was trying to make out that I should feel ashamed of being successful. There’s a lot of this sort of attitude

everywhere you look in the UK, and it’s coming from a bunch of socialist MPs, most of whom have never had a real job in their lives. They see wealth creators like me as cash cows and don’t have the brains to fi gure out that high taxes will be the death of a once great country. What I would add however is that people need to be careful what they wish for and a prime example of this kind of economic suicide are the anti-tourist protests that have become popular in Spain and across Europe. You can go all nationalistic and anti-foreigner like has happened in the UK and wind up with no jobs and a tanking economy, and very soon the investors will take their cash and fi nd a less hostile place to spend it.

HOLLYWOOD legend Michael Douglas has announced his retirement from acting at the age of 80 as he battles throat cancer.

The Wall Street star, who has been the face of upmarket Mallorcan tourism for four decades, revealed that he has deliberately avoided work since 2022.

"I have not worked since 2022 purposefully because I realised I had to stop," Douglas said at a press conference.

"I had been working pretty hard for almost 60 years, and I did not want to be one of those people who dropped dead on the set. I have no real intentions of going back."

The announcement comes after the Basic Instinct star enjoyed a recent holiday in Menorca with his daughter, Carys, 22, where the pair attended the spectacular Sant Joan festival. He has now fled the sweltering heat of his beloved Balearics for the cooler climes of the Basque Country – where temperatures reach a cool 20C – and rented a mansion in Getxo.

PREMIER: (Left to right) Marcus Rashford trains hard, Erling Haaland steps out in Puerto Banus, Lamine Yamal chills at a pool club in Nueva Andaluca - and did Thomas Partey get married in Marbs?

GUNNERS: Arsenal stars Kai Haverts (left) and captain Martin Odegaard (right)

farewell

Image by AI

Police leaflets

ALICANTE has ramped up beach security for the peak summer season with 38 Policia Local officers now patrolling six popular coastal spots.

Beyond standard policing duties, officers are distributing safety leaflets to beachgoers explaining bathing flag meanings and local regulations.

The information sheets detail bans on street selling, unauthorised massages, and bringing dogs except in designated areas. The enhanced patrols cover El Postiguet, La Albufereta, San Juan, La Almadraba, Urbanova, and San Gabriel beaches, plus Tabarca island.

Security

Eight additional officers are assigned to security boats monitoring the waters.

Security Councillor Julio Calero emphasised the importance of beach safety awareness: "It is important for bathers to remember and understand important safety rules for their benefit."

The initiative aims to ensure visitors understand flag warnings for swimming conditions whilst highlighting available lifeguard services, Civil Protection, and police assistance across Alicante's beaches during the busy tourist period.

Jellyfish measures

IT might just be safe to go back into the water after authorities laid four protective jellyfish nets in the Mar Menor lagoon. Following the same procedure as last year, the netting is intended to stop jellyfish entering the waters of Lo Pagan and Villananitos beaches in San Pedro del Pinatar as well as El Pantalan and Veneciola in La Manga. Anti-jellyfish measures were not deployed in 2022 and 2023 as priority was given to the recovery of the lagoon's eco-system.

Last year, the Mar Menor Scientific Committee approved 'the exceptional placement' of nets following a big rise in the jellyfish population that could

get close to the lagoon's northern shores.

Various types have been detected including the so-called 'fried egg' jellyfish that rarely stings, while two more dangerous varieties in the shape of the barrel and Australian spotted jellyfish have also been sighted 'on the march'.

Monitoring work confirms similar numbers this summer, resulting in measures to protect the same four beach areas.

The installations will allow safe bathing for swimmers with the project budgeted at €73,000.

Weekly maintenance and net cleaning will also be part of the work over the peak tourist season.

Mazon out?

BACK IN THE FRAY: Francisco Camps aims to Valencia politics return after 14 years

Former scandalridden Valencia

president launches comeback bid to oust embattled Mazon

FORMER Valencian president Francisco Camps has announced his intention to challenge the bitterly unpopular Carlos Mazon for the PP nomination in the 2027 regional elections.

It will mark a spectacular return to frontline politics for the 62-year-old politician, who last served in office 14 years ago.

Speaking to hundreds of supporters in Valencia, Camps promised to ‘win again by a majority’ and effectively re-

EVERYBODY OUT!

JAVEA police had to evict around 100 people from a beach which was closed off in 2007 due to landslide risks.

Despite warnings signs, iron gates, and fencing, visitors still access Cala Ambolo every summer to enjoy the remote beach – in spite of serious risks to their safety.

The Policia Local learned that a significant number were at the cove last week and moved in to clear them out.

By Alex Trelinski

launch the party in the region after its reputation was tarnished by its handling of the Valencia floods. Camps, who served as regional president for eight years between 2003 and 2011, positioned himself as a unifying figure who would ‘embrace everybody within the region’, from current president Carlos Mazon through to local PP

Officers went down a steep incline to order the beach goers out of the area who had brought a full range of umbrellas, sunbeds, and iceboxes with them.

“Ignoring the closure poses a serious threat to personal safety and can also lead to a fine,” a Policia Local spokesperson said. He added that people cannot plead ignorance due to the fences and signage, They also have to pass through a security post which only allows access to owners of a group of luxury villas.

Calp going green

councillors. The timing of Camps' announcement comes as Mazon finds himself in an increasingly precarious position following widespread criticism of his handling of the devastating October 29 floods.

Whilst backed by the national PP leadership, Mazon has faced mounting pressure over the regional government's response to the disaster.

Blame

Notably, Camps refrained from directly criticising Mazon over the flood response, instead shovelling blame onto the national government for its ‘total absence’ during the crisis. Mazon's only public comment on his challenger was diplomatic: "Camps has always had and always will have my respect."

However, Camps' political comeback bid comes with sig-

Town joins the race for Ecovidrios green flag for sustainability this summer

CALP is stepping up its commitment to sustainability this summer as it competes for Ecovidrio’s coveted Green Flag for Sustainability.

Some 146 hospitality businesses in Calp have joined the #MovimientoBanderasVerdes, a national initiative that celebrates the dedication of seaside communities and the hospitality sector to recycling glass and protecting the environment during the busy summer months.

Calp is one of 48 municipalities across the Valencian Community vying for the flag, which

last year was awarded to eco-conscious cities like Valencia and Alicante.

The competition, which runs through July and August, coincides with peak tourism season - when glass container waste soars, especially from bars, restaurants, and beachside chiringuitos, which generate nearly half of all summer glass waste.

To win the Green Flag, participating towns must improve their glass recycling rates compared to the previous year, involve at least 50% of local hospitality businesses, and raise awareness among both residents and visitors.

This year’s edition introduces new incentives. The highest-performing towns will be rewarded with a beach cleanup day, organised in collaboration with environmental group Paisaje Limpio. Additionally, Ecovidrio will honor the two most sustainable hospitality venues, based on their efforts in recycling, energy efficiency, and responsible purchasing.

To support the campaign, Ecovidrio will roll out 300 new recycling containers and distribute 1,500 waste transport kits to local businesses.

An eco-education team of 100 environmental educators will also visit participating es-

nificant baggage. He resigned from the presidency in July 2011 to avoid standing trial whilst in office, having been implicated in the so-called Gürtel corruption case over allegations of receiving money to buy uniforms. Though he was acquitted at trial the following year, the scandal marked the end of his political career.

The former president consistently denied allegations that the regional PP had been financed by ‘black money’ and was subsequently cleared of corruption charges related to a contract bringing Formula 1 races to Valencia and contracts awarded for Pope Benedict's 2006 visit to the area.

With less than two years remaining before the regional elections, Camps' challenge sets up a potentially explosive internal battle within the Valencian PP at a time when the party can ill afford division.

Queue concerns

A POLICE union is demanding Alicante-Elche airport reopen its old terminal building to tackle spiralling passport control delays that are causing passengers to miss flights.

The Spanish Police Confederation wants Terminal 2 restored to ease crushing queues at the current facility, which it describes as having ‘outdated’ capacity unable to cope with record passenger numbers.

The first six months of 2025 saw a 10.3% rise in travellers compared to last year's already record-breaking figures. June alone hit new highs, with over a third of passengers arriving from Britain.

Control

The surge has overwhelmed passport control booths serving non-Schengen countries like the UK, creating ‘situations of saturation that directly affect airport operations.’

CEP officials warn the current Terminal 1 setup is ‘insufficient’ for increased flight volumes, leading to ‘continuous waiting’ that hampers both police and airport staff operations. The union has written to airport operator Aena demanding urgent action to prevent further passenger chaos during the peak summer season.

tablishments to provide sustainability training and promote best practices. With strong community en-

gagement

and an eye on the prize, Calp is making a serious bid to turn green into gold this summer.

SIGN OF THE TIMES

SPAIN is rolling out a series of new signs, warning of scooters, red-light runners and blind people.

But for those wanting to avoid stiff fines, the new traffic lights radar sign is the one to watch out for.

The sign marks the presence of sophisticated infra-red cameras sited 25

metres before traffic lights.

The system, already live in Madrid (35 cameras) and Barcelona (42 cameras), is able to take two shots: one as the driver approaches and another if

they cross on red.

Get caught, and you’re looking at a hefty €200 fine plus four points on your driving licence.

Since being rolled out, the DGT traffic department claims red-light violations have jumped 15% – proof they’re working. They will soon be rolled out in other

RACE RIOTS

Spain rocked by third night of violence as agitators 'hunt immigrants' after 'Moroccan youths beat up old man for fun'

UP to a dozen people have been arrested and injured after three nights of race riots scarred a town in southern Spain. The violence in Torre Pacheco, Murcia, was sparked after a local man was allegedly attacked by Moroccan migrants.

Bloody

The rioting in the San Antonio neighbourhood came after a photo went viral showing the 60-year-old resident, with a bloody beaten up face.

Another video on TikTok showed a young immigrant

By Samantha Mythen

allegedly assaulting the older resident.

The video, which is now being probed by police, led to a series of attacks on north Africans, who naturally defended themselves.

Clashes began after a council meeting on Friday, which had condemned the attack but called for calm.

The three days of clashes intensified leading to the Guardia Civil to deploy 75 officers to the streets.

The immigrant, who allegedly started the incident, has

since fled the town, but the violent attacks continued.

“It's the violence of frustrated children. These are children who are lost, but instead of addressing why they're there, they're

regions of Spain, alongside a series of other new signs, including one that prohibits the now ubiquitous electric scooters. Meanwhile, another new sign indicates when cyclists must get off their bike and push it. And watch out for

another sign which might confuse drivers. This one depicts a man and a woman with walking stick - it warns of people with mobility issues or those with sensory difficulties. Namely blind or deaf people.

singled out and persecuted," a doctor told El Pais

The town’s PP mayor Pedro Roca believes a rise in crime can be attributed to the exponential increase in the town's population, which has grown

attacked

by almost 200% in recent decades.

It has seen the town grow from 15,000 inhabitants to almost 42,000 driven mainly by immigrants who have come to work in the fields.

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BEATEN: Three nights of violence after a man (right) was

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OPINION

Smear test

SPANISH Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has found himself trapped in the eternal circle of Spanish politics.

The socialist leader is facing what most consider the gravest crisis of his seven-year tenure, as a web of corruption allegations which have ensnared his closest allies threaten to bring him down.

The claims involve some very serious charges, including in-

flated public contracts, illegal kickbacks, and money laundering.

It’s a grim irony for Sanchez, who positioned himself as someone who would clean up Spanish politics when he came to power in 2018.

Many of the claims against him have been brushed off as mere smears by his right-wing adversaries, but others that go to the heart of his ruling Socialist Party (PSOE) have started to stick.

And now the knives are well and truly out – but where do the lurid claims of brothels and gay saunas stack up?

The rumour mill in Madrid had long known about the allegations that Sanchez’s father-in-law used to run a sex empire. But it was considered a topic out of bounds in the political realm – largely as it was below the belt.

Spain’s National Court had already determined that the saunas were a ‘lawful private activity’ and even slammed allegations as a ‘deplorable partisan smear’.

This was the conclusion of three judges in a ruling made public on June 28, 2024.

But what wasn’t known were the links to a trio of homes that Sanchez and his wife own (allegedly acquired through the profits of prostitution) and the new claims of links to human trafficking and illegal pimping.

The question is if the smear will backfire on the PP opposition… and ultimately was it needed when there was already more than enough smoke and fire around the Prime Minister.

Both Santos Cerdan, Sanchez's former number three, and his predecessor Jose Luis Abalos are facing very serious corruption changes.

Cerdan was arrested and jailed last month, while Abalos has been indicted.

Both are facing charges ranging from bribery, money-laundering and influence-peddling to organised crime and criminal conspiracy.

If you judge someone by the company you keep - and this pair couldn’t be much closer to Sanchez - then he’s surely doomed.

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Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

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IT’S ALL COCK AND BULL

IN the shadows of Spain's vibrant culture and rich traditions lurks a controversial practice that has managed to survive into the modern era: cockfighting. This ancient blood sport continues to ruffle feathers, challenging notions of animal welfare and cultural heritage.

While British critics often point fingers at Spain’s bullfighting tradition, and

Spaniards retort by mentioning fox-hunting, a lesser-known secret is emerging from the Iberian Peninsula. Cockfighting, a practice many

AND

SPAIN’S war on Class-A drug smuggling has taken a hightech leap.

Traffickers, never short of cunning, have embraced drones, narco-submarines, and hidden tunnels, pushing law enforcement to the limits of innovation in their fight to keep narcotics off the streets.

This includes a sophisticated drone network recently dismantled in Algeciras, with custom-made UAVs ferrying up to 10 kilograms of hashish at a time from Morocco.

These weren’t your average hobby drones: built in Ukraine with a 50-kilometre range, they slipped silently across borders until police swooped in and seized the operation, arresting 10 suspects. But the sky is just one part of the puzzle.

associate with a bygone era, is not only present but thriving in certain parts of Spain in 2025.

If we think about it at all, we vaguely associate cockfighting with the eighteenth century, and things like

burning witches: human activities which we left behind when we became civilised.

The truth is, it’s going on today – in Spain.

Shocking bloodsport that still draws the crowds in Spain - but it isn’t bullfighting

Indeed, it’s growing in some places. Only two regions – Andalucia and The Canaries – are allowed to stage actual fights, but there are breeders of fighting cocks in every part of Spain. It is in the news again because a gypsy family in Valladolid has had its prize birds stolen, and has responded by issu-

High-tech drug war

Spanish authorities ramp up cutting-edge technology and international cooperation to outsmart traffickers at every turn, writes Dilip Kuner

in the most industrial of disguises.

This includes 334 kilograms hidden inside industrial equipment on container ships, and a 304kilo stash lurking inside a shipment of pineapples from Panama. Clearly, traffickers know that fruit and freight are as much a delivery route as any yacht hull or suitcase.

A semisubmersible carrying 6.6 tonnes was intercepted

Speaking of stealth, narco-submarines have resurfaced as a particularly slippery menace.

Down at busy Valencia port, police have intercepted staggering shipments of cocaine this year concealed

Authorities intercepted a semi-submersible vessel carrying a whopping 6.6 tonnes of cocaine in the Atlantic

These underwater ghost ships evade radar, surfacing as shadows in the waves and reminding law enforcement that the drug

trade’s ingenuity knows no bounds.

On the personal smuggling front, a man was caught with cocaine cleverly hidden beneath a wig on a flight from Colombia to Amsterdam.

Nearly 20 tiny capsules of the white powder concealed within synthetic hair proved that when it comes to smuggling, traffickers will exploit every possible hiding place. Even the borders themselves can no longer be trusted. In the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, a secret tunnel was unearthed, stretching 50 metres underground from a warehouse in Spain straight into Morocco.

Shadowy

This subterranean passage exemplifies the shadowy lengths drug rings will go to avoid detection.

To counter these evolving threats, Spanish police and customs have stepped up with a combination of cutting-edge technology and tactical innovation.

High-resolution drones and radar systems now patrol the coastline, scanning for unauthorised drone flights en route to Spain, last month.

SUBBED: The latest way to sneak drugs into Europe

BUSTED: Spanish uncovered a cockfighting ring in Valencia

SURPRISE: Cockfighting is actually legal in Andalucia and the Canary Islands

ing death threats via social network media. The truth is, there’s a lot of money in a practice which many of us would classi-

fy as barbaric. Vast sums of money change hands, betting on which cock will win.

The ‘sport’ involves two birds, fighting sometimes to the death. The president of the Canary Islands Federation of Cockfighters, Jose Luis Martin, says that the cocks want to do it. “Animal rights activists

and unusual maritime activity.

are always claiming that we force them to fight, but it’s not true,” says Martín. “Our rules prevent anyone from inciting the birds, and it would be impossible to make an animal fight if it didn’t want to.” He says that male aggression is an instinct. “A cock wants to fight, it’s in his genes, and the mere sight of another male, even at a distance, will provoke its aggression.”

We at the Olive Press want to emphasise that it is very rare in the animal world for animal ‘skir-

“A cock wants to fight, it’s in his

genes.”

mishes’ to be serious. Sometimes male birds and mammals will dispute territory, but tussles don’t usually result in injuries. What makes cockfighting truly barbaric is that

At ports, sophisticated X-ray scanners and AI-driven cargo inspections help identify anomalies in freight shipments, while sniffer dogs trained to detect narcotics continue to play an indispensable role.

On land and air, joint task forces composed of Guardia Civil, Policia National, and customs officials coordinate real-time intelligence sharing while rapid response units are sent out to intercept smugglers before their cargo gets landed.

Specially trained K9 units are deployed not only at airports but also at less obvious checkpoints, including highways and warehouses. Additionally, Spanish authorities collaborate closely with their counterparts in Morocco and other EU coun-

tries, exchanging intelligence and conducting joint operations to dismantle trafficking networks at their roots.

Public awareness campaigns and community reporting hotlines also bolster the frontline, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities. In this relentless game of cat and mouse, Spanish authorities have had to evolve rapidly. International cooperation, advanced technology, and dogged determination have become the backbone of their strategy to shut down increasingly brazen and inventive smuggling operations.

The stakes remain high, but the message is clear: no matter how ingenious the methods, Spain’s fight against Class A drugs is far from overand the hunters aren’t backing down.

the birds have spikes and razor blades attached to their limbs.

PACMA is Spain’s society which condemns cruelty against animals. It is calling for an investigation into cock fighting, which it says should be totally and absolutely banned.

Section 75 of Spain’s Animal Welfare Law (2023) makes it a crime to train animals for combat. This same law says that a dog-owner who leaves a pet outside a supermarket could be liable for a fine of up to €500. It seems odd that a country with civilised laws like this still has cock-fighting in 2025. The problem is, it’s a national law but it’s left to the regions to enforce it, and Andalucia and The Canaries are reluctant to eradicate cock fights. Both of these autonomous communities have passed local laws permitting cock fights in certain circumstances.

Jose Luis Martin, who personally owns 300 fighting birds, says that the ‘sport’ is on the increase on all the Canary Islands, with the exception of Gomera, where it has never been popular. Anyone over 16 years of age can pay to see a cock fight (it costs €8 to get in). “Two birds face off against each other, and the rules say the fight must stop after 10 minutes,” he explains. “Only 10% of the birds die. The vast majority of losing birds recover quickly from their wounds, and they’re soon ready to fight again.”

Aggressive

The Spanish fighting cock is small, but highly sought-after for its aggressive nature. Thousands of birds are sold to cock-fighting enthusiasts in South America and Southeast Asia. A typical cock costs €100, but a proven champion can go for 60 times that price.

The Guardia Civil have specialised Animal Welfare units, and have recently broken up illegal cock-fighting rings in Murcia. Earlier this year they confiscated 136 birds from a farm in Tudela de Duero. If you see a 1950s black-and-white film on Spanish TV, you’ll see the whole community heading for the bullring on a Sunday afternoon. Today, almost no-one goes. Toreros (Spanish people never call them ‘toreadors’) used to be big stars. Can you even name one today? It is obvious that the bullfight is declining. How long will it be before we can say the same about cock fighting?

FLAG PLANTED

The Olive Press’s Led Zeppelininspired competition is a runaway success – as a fresh wave of subscribers plant their flag with us

IT turns out you guys really love Robert Plant. The legendary British rocker who gave us Stairway to Heaven and Whole Lot of Love is still going strong and heading to Spain.

The frontman also birthed one of the most iconic bands of all time when he formed Led Zeppelin in London in 1968 alongside Jimmy Page (guitar), John Paul Jones (bass and keyboards) and John Bonham (drums).

But we don’t need to tell you this, because it seems almost all of you are culture vultures steeped in rock trivia.

So much so that when the Olive Press offered two pairs of tickets to see his upcoming headline gig at Granada’s 1001 Festival, we were inundated with emails.

Literally hundreds of Olive Press readers mailed in, some from the very first second the competition was announced.

In fact our newsdesk inbox is still getting clogged up with hopeful Led Heads still taking a late punt on getting their hands on the four free tickets.

Unfortunately, for so many, the tickets have already found a home.

Congratulations to readers Jerry Pokropek and John Willis for securing the prize, and we hope you both have a blast rocking out with Robert and his Saving Grace show featuring Suzi Dia in the Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones on July 26.

But the huge response to our competition didn’t come as a surprise to us.

We’ve just wrapped up a special July subscription sale – and it’s been a giant summer hit.

One of various sales throughout the year, we offered a 50% discount on an annual subscription, getting full access for 12 months for just €25… or just 50c a week!

And the take up was impressive, with hundreds of new readers now enjoying the benefits of an Olive Press subscription.

Also inspired by our original reporting, including revealing that Spanish cops in Almeria, tried to cover up the highly suspicious death of British expat Brett Dylan by claiming it was a blood clot, or the eyewitness accounts of the shocking butane canister explosion in Mar Menor.

Around the clock we are now providing a constant stream of news affecting expats and tourists, as well as a broad range of features covering history, culture and travel – and much much more.

While free users are limited to only two stories a month, subscribers have full access – and without those pesky ads.

MAILOUTS

Included in the subscription are our Olive Press mail outs, which go out daily with a roundup of all the stories from the last 24 hours.

We also offer comprehensive mail outs on travel news (Tuesday), our famous property email (Thursdays), and health news on Sundays – not to mention the digital editor’s Saturday newsletter.

For those kicking themselves on missing out on this discount deal, well you should!

Just be patient as we’ll return with a new sale soon!

And if you can’t wait use the QR code here to sign up.

VALUE: A typical fighting cock costs €100, but a proven champ can go for 60 times that

GLADIATORS: Cock-

fighting enthusiasts say only 10% of birds die from the fights

HIGH SEAS: Many seizures now take place out at sea involving sail boats

BUSINESS

Spanish bull slays Asian tigers

trails at €32,178 and Japan at €31,620.

Tariff turnaround Teamwork equals dreamwork

DONALD Trump has announced that the European Union will receive a tariff letter within days, threatening to reopen his trans-Atlantic trade war.

The US President said Europe would join the growing list of trading partners facing American levies.

“We’re talking with them, and they’re treating us nicely, after years of being terrible to us,” Trump declared.

The threat comes as European businesses brace for potential disruption to transatlantic trade, with industries from automotive to agriculture facing uncertainty about future costs.

Haphazard

Trump’s announcements immediately triggered stock market falls, highlighting the continuing chaos his trade policies create.

The EU tariff announcement coincides with Trump’s threat of a 50% duty on copper imports, mirroring existing levies on aluminium and steel that have already disrupted global supply chains.

However, Trump’s haphazard trade offensive has been marked by repeated delays and U-turns.

Initially announced in April, the tariff programme was postponed to allow negotiations.

With the July 9 deadline expiring, Trump pushed implementation back to August 1.

SPAIN has overtaken both South Korea and Japan in the GDP per capita rankings, according to the latest IMF figures. Spain’s GDP per head now sits at approximately €33,666, while South Korea

This milestone represents a remarkable turnaround driven by Spain’s embrace of a service-led growth model which has seen 3% expansion in the past year alone.

Analysts have noted the global economy is shifting away from manufacturing-based con-

sumption toward services and experiences – precisely where Spain excels. The services sector now accounts for roughly 70% of Spain’s economy, fueled by booming tourism, strong hotel occupancy, and a thriving hospitality sector that continues absorbing workers. International visitors increasingly spend

money on restaurants, leisure, and lifestyle rather than manufactured goods. Meanwhile, the Asian tigers of South Korea and Japan – former icons of industrial might – struggle with aging populations, sluggish growth, and in Japan’s case, ballooning public debt.

MONEY TALKS

Spain’s Sabadell agrees to sell British bank TSB for €3.1bn – and dish out billions to wavering shareholders

SPAIN’S Banco Sabadell has agreed to sell British high street bank TSB to rival Santander for €3.1 billion –and hand out the windfall to its shareholders.

The sale comes as Sabadell fights off a hostile takeover bid from BBVA Bank.

The bank plans to hand out €2.5 billion of the proceeds as a sweetener for shareholders tempted by selling out to BBVA.

By Walter Finch

Sabadell’s chief executive César González-Bueno insisted the TSB sale isn’t a ‘poison pill’ to make the hostile takeover less attractive, but strengthens the boards hand as it prepares for a crucial shareholder vote on BBVA’s offer.

Santander beat off competition from Barclays to secure

TSB, which serves millions of British customers across the country.

The deal will create Britain’s third-largest bank when completed in early 2026.

For British TSB customers, the acquisition means their accounts will eventually be integrated into Santander UK’s operations, though both banks have promised a smooth transition with no immediate changes to services.

Sabadell originally bought TSB from Lloyds in 2015 for €2.3 billion, making Tuesday’s agreement a healthy profit for the Catalan lender.

BANKING BOOBOOS

SPANISH banks have a reputation for knowing how to sell financial ‘products’. What they are not known to be good at is providing ‘service’. Unfortunately, as expats here that’s precisely what we seek from a financial institution: good advice. After all, a US citizen who lives abroad and doesn’t intend to return home is still an American citizen – and for tax purposes, that means being taxed in the United States.

British citizens meanwhile are considered UK tax residents until they can satisfy the criteria of the UK’s Statutory Residence Test (SRT). Added to these complexities are currency exchange and transfer rules, the unique ways that American and British retirement savings and trusts are viewed by the Spanish tax authorities and courts. There are also complicated rules for property ownership, passive foreign investment companies (PFICs), and wealth tax.

That’s why a cross-border financial advisor in Spain can be so important.

To help you select one who may be right for you, these are important characteristics to look for:

Professional Qualifications

Do some research on the qualifications of your potential advisor.

Forget trusting Spanish banks: How to choose the right cross-border financial advisor in Spain, writes Peter Dougherty

Don’t be satisfied until you understand what their qualifications are and what it takes to obtain them. You could begin by contacting the European Financial Planning Association of Spain (the EFPA Espana).

It sets the standards for financial advisors and planners around Spain. Its website has a ‘Find a certified financial advisor’ section that shows every registered planner and advisor here.

Communication Skills

Look for an advisor who talks to you in an easily understood way. This holds true when answering questions (eg, what is your fee structure?) as well as explaining topics (eg, what is your investment strategy?). Ideally, the financial advisor teaches classes, has written books or newspaper columns, or demonstrates good communication.

Registration

The Comisión Nacional del Merca-

do de Valores (CNMV) is the regulatory body in Spain that oversees financial advisory firms and protects consumers.

To see if an advisory firm is registered with CNMV, you can type their name under ‘search of authorized entities’ on the CNMV website: https://www.cnmv.es/Portal/Consultas/BusquedaPorEntidad.aspx?tipo=ESI. To see if your potential counselor is listed, each advisory firm shows the names and addresses of their agents (agentes).

Compensation

BBVA has been pursuing Sabadell for over a year in what would create Spain’s second-largest bank, but the target has resisted fiercely.

The Spanish government has also thrown up roadblocks, recently imposing conditions that would delay any merger for three years and ban job cuts or branch closures.

The deal requires approval from UK banking regulators and competition authorities, as well as the European Central Bank.

Both sides are confident of completing the transaction by the first quarter of 2026.

THE European Union could be €2.8 trillion richer by 2032 if it pursues full integration, according to a major new study.

This would boost the EU’s total real GDP to almost €20 trillion, compared to €17 trillion under current policies. To achieve this, the EU needs to meet some majorly ambitious goals, starting with fiscal and monetary union, full banking union, joint defence procurement, and a shared treasury EU.

Consequences

However, the opposite – if the bloc fragments – would carry devastating consequences. A divided EU could trigger a net real GDP loss of over €2 trillion by 2032, with annual growth collapsing to just 0.6%.

Member states would face sovereign debt crises, wasteful and duplicate national spending, and climate change costs spiraling to €648 billion annually by 2050. For the euro-sceptics, the study emphasises that deeper integration wouldn’t make national governments subservient to the Brussels machine, but would complement and strengthen member states.

A product salesperson may have very different objectives than someone who is compensated for providing advice. Anyone who is trying to do both has an inherent conflict of interest.

Language Proficiency and Transparency

Find out how your potential advisor is paid. At private banks in Spain, it’s common for advisors to receive commissions (‘retrocessions’) on products sold to clients. In those cases, the advisor is paid when he or she sells you a financial product.

Trust is built on getting straight, clear answers to your questions. But clarity in Spain can be difficult when those who understand local tax and regulatory rules are typically far from the best at explaining

them in English.

One remedy is selecting an advisor who’s a native English speaker (so you understand them) who has well-informed Spanish colleagues in-house (so they know how things really work).

In Spain, it’s likely that you’ll need to walk out of a bank, not into a bank to find a financial advisor who possesses these important traits.

UP: Spain’s GDP growth has led the developd world

BULLISH: Once a PIIG, the toro has now conquered the Asian tigers Image by AI

Tip of the horn

The sun sets on another Running of the Bulls in Pamplona – with an upswing in gorings

ANOTHER edition of the world-famous San Fermin bull run has come and gone for the year.

Held in Pamplona every July for nearly 500 years, it invariably captures the world’s attention with its madcap scenes – and very painful gorings.

This year’s Running of the Bulls was no exception, with the final races on Monday morning seeing two Americans among the 30 people treated for injuries.

Authorities said there were 40 people taken to hospital

By Alex Trelinski

this year with six participants gored by bulls – but all living to tell the tale.

The figures mark an uptick on recent years, with 2024 seeing just six hospital transfers and only one goring.

It all kicked off last Sunday with the opening ceremony, known as the Chupinazo, which sees incredible scenes of a packed Plaza Consistorial with up to nine people per square metre – all dressed in traditional white with red sashes and neckerchiefs.

GORED: One runner just manages to dodge the horn of a bull

CULTURE: There were six gorings in this year’s event

More than 25,000 people gathered in the streets of Pamplona to experience the first of eight morning runs on July 6, with over 14,000 packed in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

Up to 4,000 runners took part in each bull run, which was

held over a 846-metre course and most lasted between three to four minutes.

Only 6% of participants in the runs were women according to figures from Pamplona City Council. Monday’s final race clocked in this year’s fastest time of two minutes and 16 seconds. Most of the injuries were not caused directly by the rampaging bulls but by people being caught up in the inevitable stampedes, falls and pileups that occur with each run.

GET INLAND!

Now is the perfect time to explore the Requena-Utiel region of inland Valencia. With mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and a laid-back wine-country vibe, the area offers countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re an expat, a retiree, or a couple looking for a weekend adventure, here are five springtime activities that showcase the natural beauty of Requena-Utieljust a short drive from Valencia.

1. Horseback Riding in Requena

One of the most scenic ways to take in the gorgeous landscapes of Utiel-Requena is on horseback. Local tour providers, such as Ekiaventura, offer guided rides along picturesque trails. Even beginners are welcome, as routes along the gentle plains require no prior riding experience. Some excursions even pair horseback riding with wine tastingyou might spend 45 minutes trotting through the hills before relaxing at a bodega to sample Utiel-Requena’s renowned wines. It’s a perfect spring activity: enjoy the fresh air and green scenery from the

saddle, then toast the experience with a glass of Bobal wine.

2. Rafting and Water Adventures on the Cabriel River

For a shot of adrenaline, head to the Hoces del Cabriel area for rafting or kayaking. The Cabriel River - considered one of the cleanest in Europe - runs turquoise and clear through a dramatic canyon, making it ideal for water sports. Spring is the perfect season, with the river running high and the sun not yet too intense. Choose from guided white-water rafting trips or a gentler open-kayak outing to enjoy the gorge at your own pace. Several adventure companies, such as Hocesventura and Avensport, operate in the area, catering to beginners, families, and thrill-seekers alike. They provide the gear and expertise to ensure a safe and unforgettable day on the water.

3. Hiking in Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park

The centuries-old festival was made internationally famous by Ernest Hemingway’s classic 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises', about American bohemians enjoying life in Europe. Next year’s San Fermin runs start on July 7.

5 Things to do outdoors in Valencia’s Requena-Utiel region

Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park offers hiking routes for all ages and

fitness levels. Its varied terrain - from deep river gorges to dense forests and open meadows - makes for stunning spring walks. Easy trails like the 3.8 km Cuchillares de Contreras loop or the Peñas Blancas viewpoint route take around 1.5 hours and reward you with breathtaking panoramic views. For more experienced hikers, the 18 km Contreras Reservoir circular route takes you deeper into the park, offering canyon vistas and the chance to spot wildlife such as wild goats or birds of prey. Guided hikes are also available through local accommodations like Hotel Raïmblanc. Whatever you choose, lace up your boots, pack a picnic, and hit the well-marked trails to enjoy spring in full bloom.

4. Vineyard Walks and Wine Tastings

Requena-Utiel is wine country, and spring is a wonderful time for a leisurely vineyard walk. The

region boasts nearly 3,000 years of winemaking history, and the rolling hills come alive with fresh green growth this time of year. Many bodegas welcome visitors for tours, some even offering ‘hike & wine’ experiences that pair a short nature walk with tastings of signature wines made from local grapes like Bobal and Tempranillo. You can also follow parts of the official Requena-Utiel Wine Route, which connects winery towns via scenic backroads. Imagine strolling between vineyards under the warm spring sun, then pausing on a winery patio with a glass of vino. The mix of light exercise, gorgeous landscapes, and rich wine culture makes for a perfect day outdoors.

5. Birdwatching in the Hoces del Cabriel Canyons

Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts will find much to admire in and around Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park. This protected area is a sanctuary for wildlife and especially known for its birds of prey. Spring is a prime season

for birdwatching: the blooming flora draws insects, making birds more active and visible. From the park’s trails or miradores (lookout points), you might spot griffon vultures soaring above the cliffs, or Bonelli’s eagles and peregrine falcons hunting along the ridges. Lucky birders may even hear the call of an eagle-owl at dusk. Several park trails double as birding routes, offering a chance to combine a scenic hike with birdwatching. Be sure to bring a camera and a field guide—the sight of these majestic birds against the canyon backdrop is a spring highlight.

From horseback riding through budding vineyards to rafting down crystal-clear rapids, the Requena-Utiel region offers a treasure trove of unique springtime adventures. And the best part? All of this is within about an hour’s drive from Valencia. Whether you’re after high-energy thrills or peaceful strolls with spectacular views (and perhaps a glass of wine in hand), Requena-Utiel has something for everyone this spring. So embrace the sunshine and happy exploring!

For a hassle-free visit to Requena-Utiel, try Hotel Raïmblanc where all your excursions can be arranged so you can focus on savouring the experience.

Tolkien’s Spanish Civil War epic

‘I found the International Brigades extraordinary’: Tolkien’s grandson tells the Olive Press why he set his latest novel during the Spanish Civil War

SIMON Tolkien, grandson of Lord of the Rings legend JRR Tolkien, drops a gripping historical drama set in 1930s Spain. The Palace at the End of the Sea follows young American Theo caught in love and the bloody chaos of the Spanish Civil War.

Packed with real-life heroes like the US Lincoln Battalion, it’s the first of a duology diving into one of Europe’s darkest decades.

Samantha Mythen chats to Simon about this thrilling new take on history and heroism.

ALTHOUGH best known for his family name, Simon Tolkien has carved out a writing career distinctly his own - far from the fantasy realms of Middle-earth.

A former criminal barrister turned novelist, Simon has long been drawn to the real-world conflicts that shaped the 20th century including the bombblitzed streets of 1940s London. His latest novel, The Palace at the End of the Sea, marks a return to

WELL-READ: Criminal barrister-turned novelist Simon Tolkien has set his new book in Spain

historical fiction - but this time, in the sun-scorched landscapes of 1930s Spain. It’s a novel about youth, war, love, and ideology - told through the eyes of a protagonist discovering a world in collapse. Simon has spent the last decade living in Santa Barbara, California. A town, he says, which is heavily influenced by Spain’s traditional pueblos. After writing ‘No Man’s Land’ set

during the first World War, and before that, ‘Orders from Berlin’ set during the 1940s London Blitz, Simon says he wanted to tell a story set in between those time periods. He arrived at the 1930s. A period of ‘illusion and disillusion’ themes which carry through the book.

“People’s experience in war is obviously very interesting from a novelist’s point of view,” he says. In the

back of Simon’s mind, was the story of the International Brigade, specifically the United States’ Lincoln Battalion who fought in Spain from January 1937 to November 1938. “I found their story really extraordinary,” he says. “Where they came from and that they should’ve gone all the way across the world in order to fight in a foreign war for ideological reasons, and to experience such

LEGEND: JRR Tolkien, who wrote the Lord of the Rings trilogy (below)

The Lincoln Battalion were volunteers from the United States, many of them communists, who fought for Spain’s Republicans against the Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco. Around 2,800 men joined the Internal Brigade, made of 40,000 men and women from 52 countries who came to fight in the Spanish Civil War. Nine hundred of the Lincoln Battalion were killed in action.

Many wrote diaries during their time on Spanish soil, which Simon turned to as a first-hand source of inspiration for his duology.

The main character Theo, is the son of an American businessman and a Mexican refugee, and speaks fluent Spanish. After finishing schooling in the United Kingdom, he finds himself in a quaint Andalucian village at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in the early 1930s.

“I thought the coming of age would be helpful because it would mean that the hero was discovering things in the same way as the reader,” Simon says. “This became particularly important when he got to Spain.”

He wanted Theo to have more than a simple purely ideological reason for participating in the Spanish Civil War. It’s not just his own Spanish-speaking background, but Theo is immersed in Spain, specifically a rural context. Most of the Republicans who fought in the civil war were agricultural labourers.

“Theo actually falls in love with the country, and falls in love with a Spanish girl as well,” Simon says. “And in this way, he has far more of a wider and interesting stake in the war.”

Although Simon has never travelled to Andalucia himself, he drew inspiration from foreign writers living there to ensure his book reflected an accurate portrayal of Spain’s south in the 1930s. He gained specific insight from Gerald Brenan’s autobiographical ‘South from Granada.’ Brenan settled in Spain in 1920. “He lived in the Small Andalucian village of Yegen and had such an ability to bring it to life,” Simon says. “Rather than providing the economic and social history, Brenan showed me what he actually saw and experienced firsthand.”

ENLISTED: Around 2,800 men of the Lincoln Battalion joined the International Brigades

The spread of anarchism within Southern Spain’s pueblos, and the extremity of the richpoor divide were extremely influential on Theo’s

July 30th 2025

development as a character, Simon explained. As he grows to understand who he is as an individual, and what he believes in, Theo believes he can fight Fascism to change the world.

“Many of the people Theo meets, especially the vaqueros who are working the land, have no ownership. They own nothing and for half of the year, they’re left practically to starve because the need for them on the land is seasonal,” Simon says.

“I found the story of the International Brigades extraordinary.”

Trying to wrap his head around the ‘extraordinary complexity of Spanish politics’ was one of the biggest challenges of writing the book for Simon. “People’s motivations, shifting alliances and the involvement of foreign powers made it an extremely difficult landscape,” he says. “It was daunting to begin with, but also exciting in the sense that people haven’t tried to do this before.”

Although the Spanish Civil War has been covered in detail by both Spanish and English historians, there has been little coverage of the period as a setting for historical fiction since Hemingway. With the book exploring wealth disparities, the relationship of totalitarianism to democracy and the subversion of democracy, Simon says there are parallels with the current-day war in Ukraine. “There’s the particular question of what other foreign powers concerned about the moral situation do when other sovereignties are being invaded,” he says. “ Particularly whether or not intervening is compatible with their own economic interests.”

Simon’s book was originally meant to be a standalone. “But it became a portrait of the 1930s in three countries,” he says. “So obviously, it grew to a much greater size.”

It had to be split in two. By the end of the first book, Theo finds himself in Barcelona. Just as the civil war erupts. The sequel ‘The Room of Lost Steps’ will be released in September.

WATCH THIS SPACE: The Olive Press will be publishing extracts from The Palace at the End of the Sea in coming issues.

OP QUICK CROSSWORD

sacrifice.”

A SPANISH sleep expert has warned that excessive screen use is harming children’s development and mental health.

Dr Javier Albares, author of Generación Zombi, says screens are being used as ‘digital babysitters’ for babies and toddlers in Spain.

“We see children being given devices

Not lonely

SPANISH families increasing-

ly consist of just one child as a result of the country’s position as the second lowest birth rate in the EU.

But new research suggests parents needn’t worry that a lack of siblings will lead to their offspring being lonely or antisocial. Spain’s birth rate plummeted to just 1.12 children per woman in 2023, making single-child families the norm across the country.

Social

Screen danger for kids

at mealtimes or to keep them quiet –it’s a serious issue,” he said. He warns overexposure during key stages of brain development leads to emotional imbalance, attention

problems, obesity and even anxiety and depression. He claims they damage children’s ability to form real, empathetic relationships and warns that teenagers now use

SILENT AND QUICK

screens for up to eight hours a day – far above the recommended limit of two.

Albares says no child should get a mobile phone before age 16 and urges families to replace screens with books, toys and conversation.

“It’s not punishment – it’s because we care,” he said.

HELP: Experts estimate hundreds of people drown in Spain each year

However, groundbreaking research combining 141 studies has shattered long-held stereotypes about only children. It found that children without siblings actually scored higher on achievement motivation and personal adjustment.

SPAIN’S beaches claimed five lives in just one week as medical experts grapple with what’s been branded a ‘silent epidemic’ that kills between 400 and 600 people annually across the country.

Five drownings on Spain’s beaches in a week mark ‘public health’ epidemic in which hundreds die annually

By Walter Finch

ming, jumping from heights, and sailing boats without proper training are also big killers.

THE manufacturer of much sought-after weight loss miracle drug Ozempic is facing sanctions for ‘very obviously’ advertising the product in Spain. Advertising prescription-only drugs is strictly prohibited under Spanish legislation, yet the Danes at Novo Nordisk still went ahead with an advertising campaign under the slogan Obesity can kill Ostensibly intended to raise public awareness about the health risks associated with being very overweight, the campaign also included tips on the benefits of a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep.

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Their services include cybersecurity, device maintenance and performance optimization, and malware removal, enhanced by AI for faster and accurate solutions.

“There’s no guarantee that children with siblings will socialise well, nor that single children will have trouble doing so,” explains perinatal psychologist Raquel Huéscar.

Even China’s 36-year one-child policy provided revealing data.

Personalized User Experience

The deaths have prompted warnings that people are dangerously misinformed about the reality – and ease – of drowning. Contrary to popular belief, drowning is neither noisy nor visible, experts warn. The process is rapid, silent and difficult to detect, typically occurring in less than two minutes.

AnyTech365 adapt its product and technical support solutions to individual needs, offering a safe online experience to any Some

“We keep expecting someone to shout for help when they’re drowning, but it’s a quick, silent process that’s hard to spot,”

ming pools, with nearly 75% of drownings occurring in the summer months.

AnyTech365 IntelliGuard

AnyTech365 AI

or just a well-deserved break, your tech is likely along for the ride. Smartphones, tablets, laptops… they’ve become as essential as sunscreen and flip-flops.

AnyTech365

Comprehensive

But while you soak up the Mediterranean rays, your devices need a bit of TLC too.

AnyTech365

World

Personalized User Experience

AnyTech365

First things first: don’t trust every free Wi-Fi network you see: That charming beach cafe may serve a mean Spanish tortilla, but its open Wi-Fi could be a gateway for cyber snoopers.

For every fatality, experts estimate between three and five more people escape with their lives, raising the annual healthcare impact to between 1,200

Key risk factors for drowning revolve around children, including a lack of direct supervision – particularly during afternoon hours between 3pm and 6pm, – and mobile phone use

Another red flag is literally swimming when red flags are displayed. People boozing before swim-

The latest tragedies unfolded across multiple provinces, with three confirmed drownings and two other deaths still under investigation by authorities.

Fatality

In Cantabria, divers recovered the body of a 23-year-old Senegalese man at the bottom of an algae-covered pool, while the body of a 65-year-old man was discovered not far away in the Mogro estuary.

In Cadiz, a 69-year-old man died after being pulled from the water at Valdelagrana beach in El Puerto de Santa María.

TECH FOR TRAVEL:

Staying safe and connected on the go this summer

you’re feeling fancy, consider using a VPN (Virtual private network) to keep your data safe and sound. Before leaving your home or hotel for day trips, make sure your devices are backed up.

You don’t want to lose your stunning sunset photos or that once-in-a-lifetime selfie with a flamenco dancer due to a lost or damaged phone.

security platform with advanced scanning techniques to identify potential threats from files, programs and neutralization of viruses, malware, and phishing attempts.

AnyTech365 TotalCare

It’s best to treat public networks like public toilets: use them only if you absolutely must, and wash your hands well afterwards, metaphorically speaking. Above all, avoid checking your bank account or logging into sensitive websites while connected, and if

or even install spyware to monitor your activity.

And the worst part? You might not notice anything unusual until it’s too late.

That’s why it’s safer to use a regular power plug or your own portable battery — they only deliver electricity, not surprises.

SUN STRENGTH

Our AnyTech365 IntelliGuard product can easily add - with its ‘Secure Folder’ installation - that extra protection your sensitive files need.

And remember, your phone doesn’t like the Spanish sun quite as much as you do.

AnyTech365 IntelliGuard

Leaving it on a table in full sunlight can overheat it quickly, turning it into a very expensive paperweight. Keep it shaded or tucked away in your bag when not in use.

MOBILE CHARGING STATIONS, TOO!

AnyTech365 AI powered unique software can pinpoint the root cause of a problem providing real-time protection and immediate response to suspicious activity. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of cyberattacks.

Obesity

While it made no reference to Ozempic or another prescription-only offering known as Wegovy, the Spanish health ministry said the campaign could be seen as ‘covert advertising’. Both drugs, aimed at treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, mimic a hormone which helps regulate blood sugar and increases feelings of fullness. Novo Nordisk, now one of Europe’s largest companies – almost single-handedly raising Denmark’s GDP – now stands at risk of being fined.

with AnyTech365’s around-the-clock support services, offered in more than 15 native languages.

AnyTech365 Security

While we’re talking about phones, resist the urge to use those public USB charging stations at airports or tourist spots. They’re convenient, yes, but they’ve also been linked to a sneaky trick called ‘juice jacking’. Here’s how it works: when you plug your phone into a compromised USB charging station, it’s not just power that flows through that cable: data can too.

And while it’s tempting to post every paella and picturesque plaza to social media in real time, it’s smarter to wait until you’re home.

Broadcasting your location online can be an open invitation to burglars or digital mischief-makers. Lastly, print and save digital copies of your travel documents and emergency contacts.

Spain has to offer. Just remember: the sangria is for you, not your smartphone.

World class, cross-platform security platform with advanced scanning techniques to identify potential threats from files, programs and neutralization of viruses, malware, and phishing

AnyTech365 TotalCare

Mobile data and Wi-Fi can be patchy in some places, and nothing says ‘holiday stress’ like trying to pull up your hotel reservation on a dead battery.

This summer, let your tech work for you, not against you. Stay connected, stay safe, and enjoy

Hackers can install hidden malware on the charging port that secretly accesses your device as soon as you connect. That malware might steal your contacts, passwords,

WHAT ANYTECH365 CAN DO FOR YOU:

From setting up secure browsing and antivirus protection to cleaning up your devices and improving performance, our experts do it all remotely so you don’t even need to leave your hammock.

And if you’d rather not worry about updates, backups, online threats, or shady networks, AnyTech365 has your back.

SPECIAL OFFER: Struggling with all that tech prep before you take off? Grab our exclusive FREE offer below, call AnyTech365 and leave all that to the experts!

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Spain's Airbnb crisis exposed

NEARLY 400,000 tourist flats are eating Spain's holiday hotspots alive – and in some city-centre streets, short-term lets now outnumber homes for locals.

One in three homes in tourist hotspots now short-lets – some streets overrun

By Dilip Kuner

A bombshell new report backed by Spain's National Statistics Institute (INE) has laid bare the scale of the crisis. Across Spain, tourist rentals make up 1.38% of the housing stock – but in some neighbourhoods that figure rockets past 30%, even hitting more than 50% on a few streets. Marbella is the worsthit big city, with 30% of its census sections hav- ing more than 5% of homes used as tourist flats.

Cadiz follows at 22%, then Malaga with 12%. In Malaga’s historic Carret y Alamos and La Merced districts, tourist flats exceed 25% – and on some central streets, it's more than half.

Even in Madrid, the city's Centro district is packed with over 8,000 short-let flats – 9.3% of all housing there. Around Puerta del Sol, that percentage triples.

In Barcelona, Ciutat Vella and Eixample are also under siege, with around 4,000 tourist apartments in Eixample alone – four times more than in the Old Town.

Although their share seems modest (2.8 to 2.9%), the impact on local life has been dramatic.

Andalucian cities like Granada, Cordoba and Sevilla are also seeing their historic centres transformed, with over 10% of homes in some districts turned into holiday lets. The data, which tracks Airb-

HEAT REFUGEES

nb and Booking.com listings, is updated twice a year and reflects peak summer 2024, when a record 397,000 shortterm rentals were active. Even the more recent figure from November 2024 – 368,295 – shows the trend hasn’t reversed.

Europe's best beach

SPAIN has claimed another sea and sunshine crown as travel company Omio placed a Spanish beach first in its best beach rankings – and second. First place in its list of the 75 best shorelines comes Teresitas Beach in Tenerife near the village of San Andres. It lauded the white sand as ideal for enjoying a day in the sun with your whole family.

The 1.5 kilometre long beach is actually man-made, with the soft sand perfect for strolling along imported from the desert near Santa Cruz. The silver medal goes to nearby Las Canteras Beach in Gran Canaria, the island next door to Tenerife.

Snorkel

BRITS are sweating under the summer sun - not in Spain, but on their own isle, as the United Kingdom has been hit with several heat waves in a row – and even hotter ones forecast to come.

As a result, insurance company InsuranceGo claims at least two-thirds of British tourists are reportedly reconsidering their holiday bookings. The company reported that 36% of

British tourists are looking to change the date of their trip to the cooler autumn months instead of scorching summer. Meanwhile, 40% of survey respondents believe Spain will be too hot for a summer holiday after the next five years. One in four respondents (25%) are looking to cooler countries, with Iceland (22%), Canada (21%) and Sweden (18%) moving up the list of preferred destinations, along with Ireland (17%) and Finland (16%).

WHETHER you live in Spain full-time or own a second home, having the right home insurance is essential. Although not legally required unless you have a mortgage, it provides peace of mind and protects against costly damage or unexpected events. At Generali Expatriates, we understand buying insurance abroad can be confusing. Here are five common questions about home insurance in Spain to help you make informed decisions.

1. IS HOME INSURANCE COMPULSORY IN SPAIN?

No, except if you have a mortgage. Then, lenders usually require buildings insurance (covering the structure) as part of the loan conditions.

You are free to choose any insurer; you don’t have to take the policy with your bank, as long as the policy meets the minimum coverage required by the lender. Even without a mortgage, home insurance is highly recommended—especially if you rent out your property or leave it unoccupied

From the start of this month, all tourist flats in Spain must register for an official ID number to advertise legally – part of a crackdown on illegal holiday rentals. Authorities hope this will help identify rogue landlords and tackle over-tourism. But campaigners say the damage is already done. Outrage is boiling over across the country. Protests have erupted in Barcelona, Alicante and Palma, with locals taping off

holiday flats, spraying visitors with water pistols and marching under banners reading Our city is not for sale and Limit mass tourism. In response, Spain's left-wing government is pushing measures to curb short-term lets and encourage landlords to return to long-term rentals –amid a nationwide shortage of 450,000 homes. Barcelona’s mayor has vowed to ban all tourist flat permits by 2028, while Madrid, Malaga and the Canary Islands are tightening permit rules.

This 3km long beach is the main urban swimming beach of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria city. It’s right in the heart of the city, and there’s a natural breakwater offering safe areas to swim and even snorkel to seek out marine life. Another Spanish beach in the top 10, coming in at fourth place, is La Concha in San Sebastián.

HOME INSURANCE IN SPAIN:

5 KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED

for long periods. Generali Expatriates offers flexible policies, so you pay only for the cover you need.

If you are unsure about your protection, our expat experts can help tailor a suitable policy without unnecessary extras.

2. HOW DO I KNOW HOW MUCH CONTENTS INSURANCE I NEED?

It depends on your belongings— from kitchen appliances and clothes to garden furniture. Valuables like jewellery may require separate declaration.

Generali Expatriates advisors can help estimate realistic amounts and specific requirements.

3. WHAT IS THE “EXCESS” IN MY POLICY?

The excess is what you pay toward a claim before the insurer covers the rest. For example, with a €100 excess on a €500 repair,

the insurer pays €400. Choosing a higher excess can lower your premium—useful if you don’t expect to claim often.

4. DOES HOME INSURANCE INCLUDE PUBLIC LIABILITY?

Some policies include Public Liability, especially with contents insurance. This protects you if someone is injured or their property damaged due to your home (for example, water damage to a neigh-

bour). Coverage varies by insurer and policy.

Generali Expatriates includes Public Liability automatically with contents cover, with an option to extend up to €1 million.

5. IS DOG LIABILITY COVERED?

Dog owners are legally responsi-

ble for damage their pets cause. Coverage depends on the insurer and policy details; sometimes it’s included under Public Liability if you have contents cover.

Generali Expatriates covers liability for your dog if the legal owner lives at the insured address. For “potentially dangerous breeds,” specific Public Li-

ability cover is required and can be arranged via your policy. Just declare your dog when insuring.

Something as important and valuable as your home in Spain deserves the right protection, so we always recommend seeking advice from a qualified insurance advisor.

MOBILISE: Airbnb flats have been at the heart of housing protests in Spain

GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL

Emily Henry

HLIFE,

enry tops the list again, with formulaic but enthralling plot lines, the American author has made a name out of her adult romance beach read hits. Her latest novel explores two writers competing for a literary prize, whilst also falling for each other. Essentially, it’s chick lit: a guilty pleasure but a hit nonetheless.

AQueer Road-Trip Romp, follows protagonists Bernie and Leah as they set out on a cross-country road trip, Thelma and Louise style, and make plenty of self discoveries whilst strengthening their bond. HOUSEMATES, Emma Copley Eiseneberg 2

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

5 4 1 W

HETHER you're baking on the beach, flopped by the pool or hiding from the heat with the aircon cranked up, there’s no better time to dive into a cracking good read. And we’ve got you covered.

The team at The Book

From poolside page-turners to air-con escapism, these top 10 books will keep you hooked all season long 3

ETHE HOUSEMAID’S SECRET,

Freida McFadden

xtremely popular at the moment (and selling out fast) this sequel to The Housemaid is a thriller bound to keep you on your toes - it’s about a cleaner who uncovers a terrible secret about her employers while cleaning their house… riveting stuff! Full of twists and surprises, it has left readers in shock.

By Zoe Dahse

Shop in San Pedro de Alcantara has helped the Olive Press pick 10

BUTTER, Asako Yuzuki

Abig hit this year after being published in English, this 2017 Japanese novel which cleverly weaves themes of food with crime and trauma. Although be warned - the translated version does sometimes result in difficult reading!

THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLE, Matt Hai

sizzling summer reads guaranteed to keep you hooked. So it is time to lather on the sun cream, pour yourself an ice-cold drink, and turn the page on boredom. Here’s what to read this summer…

Follow up to his bestseller The Midnight Library, this takes us to the beautiful island of Ibiza. Charting the journey of Grace, a retired maths teacher who inherits a house in Ibiza and discovers her supernatural capabilities. A novel that interpolates ideas of magical realism.

OP Puzzle solutions

Across: 7 Unity, 9 Impairs, 10 Reigate, 11 On cue, 12 Grin, 13 Stresses, 17 Signed on, 19 Olga, 21 Virgo, 23 Caspian, 24 Show how, 25 Rat on.

Down: 1 Outrages, 2 Visiting, 3 Rime, 4 Oppose, 5 Zinc, 6 I see, 8 Yuan, 14 Two, 15 Soloists, 16 Stagnant, 18 Epochs, 20 Tsar, 21 Vast, 22 Roof, 23 Cowl.

6

OCONCLAVE, Robert Harris

ff the back of last year’s fantastic film starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, sales of this novel have since skyrocketed.

As the recent conclave showed, the process of papal selection is a hot topic, especially all the infighting and politics behind it. A gripping read.

PAPAL: Ralph Fiennes starred in an adaptation last year

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

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HOT READS FOR A ROASTING SUMMER

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES, Sarah J. Maas

THE COVENANT OF WATER, Abraham Verghese

AC

DREAM COUNT, 10 8 9 7

700 page novel, enthusiastically recommended by the shop owner Alicia, it tells the story of a family in the Indian state of Kerala, across three generations.

ontinues to be a record breaking fantasy series, selling copies all the time in bookshops across the world.

bookshops

GABRIEL’S MOON, William Boyd

Atale of cold war espionage, the novel centres on a young British journalist on assignment in Africa, and his ensuing travels and experiences around the world.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

A beautifully told story about first loves, kisses, and disappointments, all told from the perspective of four Nigerian women - Adichie returns after a ten-year hiatus with a beautiful woven tale of power and love,

exploring the possibilities of what could have been as life goes on.

By P OO LVILLAS

20-25 WEEKS RENTED IS NOT A DREAM, WE MAKE IT POSSIBLE Online booking • Websites in 8 languages

More than 100 million visitors per month • Maintenance and quality control Professional photos • Well-maintained accomodations 24/7 customer service for your guests

Tibet celebrations

ACTOR Richard Gere left his Madrid home and Spanish wife to travel to Dharamshala in northern India to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 89th birthday this month.

Too loud

ANTI-NOISE associations are popping up across the country with Spaniards demanding their right to rest as party-goers crowd streets into the early hours of the morning, keeping neighbours awake.

Garlic thief

A THIEF was smelt out of hiding after the Guardia Civil pulled over his rental van which was carrying 3.3 tonnes of stolen garlic en route from Cuenca to Albacete.

Police arrest expat for promoting wrong type of activity to tourists

POLICE have put the brakes on a German expat’s van which was cruising around plastered with images of scantily-clad women.

The man was being paid to drive around promoting a local strip club in Mallorca.

Among the assorted head-turning images was one of a woman shown from be-

CAST AWAY: A stranded paddler was rescued after midnight in Manilva

By Alex Trelinski

hind with euro banknotes sticking out of her thong.

Local police took a dim view of the brazen advertising campaign, however, which featured a total of four women in bikinis.

The van owner was found to have broken a number of laws and regulations, one of them that aims to improve

STRIPPED DOWN

NOT COOL: Police were unimpresed when they saw the ‘strip van’

Rafa’s golfing ace

AS tennis headlines were being made at Wimbledon, Rafa Nadal celebrated getting a 'hole-in-one' in Mallorca.

The recently retired tennis star, 39, snared the golfing achievement while his younger compatriot Carlos Alcaraz was playing his Grand Slam final in London. While numerous dignitaries were at Centre Court, including King Juan Carlos, he stayed at home in the Balearics to practice on his swing.

Paid off

the quality of tourism in Mallorca.

Images that ‘objectify or deni-

Paddle fright

A MAN had a paddleboard session to forget after he got stuck nearly six kilometres out at sea at midnight off the Costa del Sol. Thankfully, a vigilant beach stroller in Manilva

spotted him struggling to get back to shore around 10pm while he was still 800 metres out. A search was launched and a rescue helicopter finally brought him in clinging to his board at 1.40am at the port of Duquesa.

grate women’ are strictly prohibited under the law, while inducements to enter adult establishments was another.

The owner of the German-plated van was ordered to either remove the images or cover them over.

Cover up

He quickly agreed to cover them up until he could get them off his van.

He is still facing a fine ranging from €60,001, going all the way up to €600,000.

It seems to have paid off though as he served his first golfing ace at the Alcanada Golf Club at Port d'Alcudia.

“A hole in one does not happen every day,” said Nadal on his social media account.

He posted pictures with the ball after his achievement on the 167-metre 14th hole.

The US PGA tour paid tribute to Nadal describing his first-ever 'hole in one' as a 'different kind of ace.'