News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

crime-law

Members of 'La Manada' Seek Reduction in Prison Sentences

In a significant development in one of Spain's most notorious criminal cases, two members of the group known as 'La Manada' (The Pack) have requested a reduction in their prison sentences. JosĂ© Ángel Prenda and JesĂșs Escudero, who were convicted for their involvement in a high-profile sexual assault case, are currently serving 15-year prison terms.

The Case

The incident that led to their conviction occurred in 2016 during the San FermĂ­n festival in Pamplona. The group, which included five men, was found guilty of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old woman. The case sparked widespread outrage and protests across Spain, highlighting issues of sexual violence and the need for stronger legal protections for victims.

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business

Rafael Nadal Expands Global Tennis Empire with Major Investment Deal

In a significant move that underscores his enduring impact on the world of tennis, Rafael Nadal has secured a €94.1 million deal by selling a 44.9% stake in his renowned tennis academy to the investment firm GPF Capital. This strategic partnership is set to propel the Rafael Nadal Academy to new heights, both financially and in terms of global reach.

The Academy's Roots and Success

Founded in 2016 in Manacor, Mallorca, the Rafael Nadal Academy has quickly become a global hub for young tennis talent. The academy offers a high-performance training program alongside academic education, making it one of the world’s premier tennis academies. Since its inception, the academy has already expanded to include branches in Kuwait, Greece, and Mexico, with more locations on the horizon.

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culture

Ranking of the Best Bulls in the Valencian Community for 2024: CastellĂłn Leads the Way

In the heart of Spain's Valencian Community, the tradition of bull running and bullfighting continues to thrive, with 2024 seeing some of the most impressive and fierce bulls in recent history. The latest rankings for the best bulls in the region have been released, and CastellĂłn has emerged as a standout performer.

The Top Bulls of 2024

The ranking, which evaluates the performance and bravery of bulls in various events across the Valencian Community, places bulls from CastellĂłn at the forefront. These bulls, known for their strength, agility, and ferocity, have captivated audiences and earned the respect of bullfighters and spectators alike.

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food-drink

Rising Chocolate Prices: What Expats in Spain Need to Know

As expats in Spain, you may have noticed a significant increase in the price of chocolate at your local supermarkets. This trend is not isolated to Spain but is part of a broader global phenomenon driven by several key factors.

Record High Cocoa Prices

Cocoa prices have reached historic highs, with the 2024/2025 cocoa crop season seeing prices remain elevated. In December 2024, cocoa prices surged to an all-time high of $12,646 per ton, a 30% increase from previous levels[1][2].

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food-drink

Ruiloba to Host the VIII Feria de la Leche with Ambitious Goal of Creating Europe's Largest Fresh Cheese

This Sunday, February 18, the charming town of Ruiloba in Cantabria, Spain, will be abuzz with excitement as it hosts the VIII Feria de la Leche, an event that has become a staple in the region's culinary and cultural calendar. The festival, organized by the Ayuntamiento de Ruiloba, promises to be an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.

The Quest for Europe's Largest Fresh Cheese

The highlight of this year's Feria de la Leche is an ambitious attempt to create the largest fresh cheese in Europe. This endeavor underscores the community's passion for dairy products and their commitment to showcasing the rich gastronomic heritage of Cantabria.

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transportation

Ryanair and Spanish Authorities Locked in Bitter Dispute Over Airport Fees and Route Cuts

A heated standoff between Ryanair and Spanish airport operator Aena has escalated, leaving the future of several regional flight routes in Spain uncertain. The dispute, which has been simmering for months, has now drawn in government officials and sparked a war of words that is worrying both local communities and tourists.

Background of the Dispute

At the heart of the conflict is Ryanair's decision to cut 800,000 seats from its Spanish operations for the summer of 2025. This move is a direct response to what the airline describes as "excessive" fees imposed by Aena, the state-owned airport operator. Ryanair claims that these fees are unsustainable and are forcing the airline to reallocate its resources to more competitive European markets[1][3][4].

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