Mallorca 4 – 10 April 2024 Issue 2022

Live crucifixion

THE traditional descent from the cross is the most powerful religious expression during Holy Week.

Fervour in the village of Biniamar, northwest of Inca, reached a peak on Good Friday with the dramatisation of Jesus Christ’s descent from the cross, known as the ‘davallament’. In many towns, the wooden effigy of Christ is replaced by a live man.

The congregation processed from the sombre Good Friday mass in respectful silence, halting at the main square lined by an expectant crowd.

The entrance to the imposing ‘New’ church glowed red, and dramatic music began to intone from inside. The crowd surged up the steps.

Inside, a poignant scene awaited. A man wearing nothing but a loincloth was hanging from a cross, a group of Roman soldiers and three women in black below him.

The accomplished actor playing Jesus spoke a few powerful words, briefly agonised, then expired.

A medley of plangent melodies, including fragments of Mozart’s Requiem in D minor and Barber’s Adagio for strings, brought many of the spectators to tears as the soldiers lowered Christ from the cross and laid him in his mother’s arms.

A SHIP sunk in the Bay of Palma some 1,500 years ago is being raised.

In 2019, a diver made the chance discovery of a wreck of a fourth century ship a few metres from Fontanelles beach in the bay of Palma. It was submerged in shallow water, not far from the shore and was carrying a cargo of 300 sealed amphorae.

On April 2, the Heritage department of the Consell de Mallorca will start the process of preparing the vessel to bring it to the sur-

The neogothic ‘new’ church or cathedral dates back 110 years but was never finished. The main financer, Antoni Maura, had lost political influence and the budget ran out before the roof could

Sunken ship

be built. The atmospheric church is host to many cultural events, notably the rampaging devils and fireworks in January for San Antoni celebrations and opera stagings in the summer.

face. They aim to build a 12-metre replica. The ancient ship will then be moved to a pond being dug in the Sant Carles castle in Porto Pi for desalination towards the end of the year. The complex project has been named ‘Arqueomallornauta’. The ship is believed to have been sailing from Cartagena to Rome.

Yachting glamour

THE nautical season begins with the annual Palma International Boat Show from April 25 to 28. This year the programme will be particularly special, as it marks the 40th anniversary of the boat show.

With more than 30,000 visitors each year, the boat show is a major meeting of professionals.

The Palma Superyacht Village of around 80 luxury yachts is a unique pre-season showcase where major transactions take place.

The show takes place at the Moll Vell in Palma from 10 am to 8 pm. Tickets cost €11.

The Balearic Superyacht Forum will be hosted at the Palma Auditorium, within easy walking distance of the town centre, on April 24 and 25. This is a strategic think tank and experiential event which aims to foster insightful discussions and engage in hands-on workshops.

Proudly participating in the 40th anniversary edition is Ugo Pellegrino’s Arcadia Yachts, premiering the Sherpa 80 superyacht at stand 105 in zone 4.

Enactment at Biniamar.

THE Magaluf Half Marathon is back. Sea-level routes of different levels of technical difficulty have been designed for an enjoyable set of runs, all ending at the superb new Magaluf Athletics track.

The Magaluf Half Marathon on April 20 follows an entirely urban route between Magaluf and Palmanova, with coastal landscapes and some great pedestrian walkways.

The final 400 me -

Magaluf marathon

tres on the new Magaluf Athletics Track surface are a race to the finish. After crossing the line runners will receive a medal, refreshments and more.

An alternative 10 km circuit has been designed to be fast, varied and to capture the essence of the Magaluf and Palmanova areas.

Homologation of the routes by the Royal Spa-

nish Athletics Federation took place on April 2.

There is a kids’ run from 6pm to 7pm the day before, on April 19. Categories go from under four years old to 13+ and distances vary from 200 to 800m. Registration costs just €1.

For information and inscriptions, visit the Half Marathon Magaluf 2024 page on calviadepor tes.com.

A transatlantic record

Annette Christmas MALLORCAN sailor Aina Bauzà, from the Port of Andratx sailing club, has broken the speed record on her 30-day journey from Cadiz to the Bahamas. Aboard the 21-foot Redó by Ànima Negra, the 29-year-old sailed 4,800 miles in 31 days, with top speeds of up to 18 kn.

The World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) is set to certify this achievement, making Aina the first person to complete a solo crossing between Cadiz and San Salvador in a monohull, and the first woman ever to do so. She is also first person to achieve this in a 21-foot boat.

Aina intended to cover the almost 4,000 nautical miles between Cadiz and San Salvador in less than 21 days. However, bad weather delayed progress. “The weather didn’t allow me to take the shortest route, so I had to go down very far south to stay in the zone where the winds were favourable and ended up doing many more miles than expected,” she explained. In the end she sailed roughly 4,800 miles in 31 days, at speeds of up to 18 kn.

The weather was unstable throughout the journey and conditions were frequently adverse. Aina experienced swells around the Canary Islands due to a low front. In the Atlantic, she had to travel further south than expected due to an

Record broken on 30-day journey.

anticyclone in the Azores. Mid-Atlantic, she was up against trade winds exceeding 25 knots and waves of up to four metres. The approach to the Caribbean was also a challenge, with four cold fronts, wind and intense rain.

As well as practical issues, Aina was up against considerable personal challenges. It was the first time she had been alone on board for so many days, and her first Atlantic crossing. She did not see any other human beings for more than 16 days, nor even any other boats until she got to the Caribbean. On a practical level, she also had no bedroom, bathroom or kitchen.

Aina Bauza is unstoppable: her next challenge is to sail around Europe.

URBAN ROUTE: Half marathon Magaluf. Credit: Half Marathon

NIBS EXTRA

Jet2 jobs

AROUND 1,000 Jet2 workers are facing redundancy in Spain. Affected destinations include Palma, Alicante, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Job losses are expected for 35 per cent of employees.

Unlucky falls

TWO men died on Friday, March 23, less than 12 hours apart. In Magaluf, a man in his 70s fell from a three-storey building at 8am. An 82-year-old man later fell from a second floor in Son Servera.

Bus lane chaos

THE General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has proposed time slots for bus lane use on the Ma19 in Palma. The Council of Mallorca Minister for Territory, Mobility and Infrastructure said the proposed system “creates confusion and chaos.”

Cheeky fans

A FATHER and son with relatives in Mallorca were spotted buying tickets for the cup final in Sevilla between Atletico Madrid and Mallorca on April 6, evading restrictions. Tickets were only reserved for club members.

Historic Easter

ON Easter Sunday the traditional ‘re-encounter’ between the resurrected Jesus and his mother Mary took place at Palma Cathedral, enacted with the help of historic large wooden figures.

Castle party

DURING ‘Angel Sunday’ at the Castell de Bellver, organised by the Neighbour’s federation of Palma, giants danced and mediaeval toys were displayed by the Milites Maioricarum group.

A very charitable tradition

THE tradition of the Pancaritat feast (pa amb caritat or ‘bread with charity’) dates back to the 14th century, when young people distributed bread to the poor on a day connected with crop blessings. This original pancaritat was not religious in nature.

The pancaritat procession now follows the same route as the stations of the cross earlier in Easter week. It is essentially a friendly get-together and picnic. The more ambitious bring their cooking utensils to make an al fresco arros brut or paella.

Selva, in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, holds a competition to see

who can make the best paella. One local British resident has won it so many times in a row that he decided to take a step back and allow others

Free testing

FOLLOWING a pilot study taking place in selected health centres in the coming months, the Ministry of Health will launch a campaign for the early detection of cervical cancer

The aim is to detect premalignant lesions and cervical cancer in its early stages. This type of programme has proven very e ective, and in some countries has reduced the incidence and mortality by 70-80 per cent.

The new Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programme (PDPCCU) is aimed at some 360,000 women living in the Balearic Islands, who will be invited to take two types of tests depending on their age group.

In the rst group, 25- to 34-year-old women will have a cytology test carried out by medical personnel every three years. If the result is very low-risk, this test will be repeated every three years.

Women between the ages of 35 and 64 will self-sample using a thin tampon-like device. If the result is very lowrisk, the test will be repeated every ve years.

to take a shot.

In Palma, people walk up to the Castell de Bellver, where giants modelled on characters from Mallorcan

folk tales dance to bagpipe music. People tend to make a day of it, singing, dancing and participating in workshops.

Soft start for season

EASTER is the traditional start to the season at the ‘Ballermann’ stretch of the S’Arenal beach resort at Balneario number six.

The pre-season soft opening attracts keen partygoers. Many establishments opened for the occasion, including the Mega Park and Bamboleo beer gardens, the Upper Bavaria and the long-established Rutschbahn (‘slide’) disco.

Big names were brought in to the Megapark to boost crowds: pop star Mickie Krause, Austrian DJ Lorenz Bü el, plus party pop singer and model Isi Glück, among others. And the Bier König had an equally attractive lineup.

Fares from Germany rose for last-minute bookings during the spring break, re ecting the pre-season popularity. Oneway fares were going for €300, while rooms remained a modest €80 for a double room.

Some windy and grey weather over the holiday weekend did not spoil the party mood.

‘Ballermann’ is a composite of the Spanish word for ‘spa’ (Balneario’) and a colloquial German expression for a rearm. ‘Ballern’ has come to mean to party or make a noise.

Palma on Good Friday

THE Holy Week processions concluded in solemnity in Palma on Good Friday, March 29.

More than 4,500 participants from the 33 brotherhoods of Palma participated in the parade and were watched by countless thousands lining the streets.

The impressive wooden e gies borne on elaborate pasos through the streets by the brotherhoods de-

pict grief, su ering and mourning. The marching bands still played at times, but the prevailing sound was the insistent low rumble of the funerary drumbeats and there were scenes of intense emotion and fervour.

A touching exchange of gifts took place at the Plaça de Santa Eulàlia, when Marga Prohens, president of the Balearic Government, presented

bouquets of roses to the Hope and Agony brotherhoods, which are celebrating their centenary this year. In return, they presented her with a medallion.

The parade left the Plaça de Sant Francesc soon after 7pm and ended in the early hours at the church of Socors, where the Solemn Holy Entombment Ceremony took place.

THE concert agenda got o to a compelling start during Easter week on March 25, with the traditional charity concert for Project Home Baleares at Palma Cathedral.

The charity has been helping socially vulnerable people with addictions since 1987.

A star-studded performance of Mozart’s Requiem in D minor was o ered.

The event featured some of the best-known musicians in Mallorca: the Balearic Islands Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pablo Mielgo, accompanied by the University Choir of the Balearic Islands, conducted by Nuria Cunillera, and the Capella de la Seu, conducted by Joan Company.

The soloists were Irene Más, soprano, Begoña Gómez, mezzo-soprano, Joan Lainez, tenor and Josep Miquel Ribot, baritone.

Celebrating Pancaritas in Selva.

Spain is a worldwide power in property

Amy Watts

THE third Mallorca property summit was held recently at the Castillo Son Vida.

Untapped potential in the housing market was approached from the perspectives of both affordable housing and the luxury market. Both suffer from a lack of available building land.

For Marta Vidal, Minister for Housing, Territory and Mobility, affordable housing is the key to prosperity.

To combat the shortfall in available housing, the regional ministry is cataloguing available land in the towns and industrial areas, considering a possible relaxation of height restrictions and changes of use.

The idea is to generate new housing stock without public cost, through developer associations, although the administration of these is complex and so delays ensue.

The analysis of national and global statistics is clear: Mallorca is trending for luxury developers.

Enrique Lopez from Caledonian construction, based in Madrid, emphasised the potential of the premium sector, which is now arriving in Mallorca. In his view, “Spain is a worldwide power” in the property market.

He says the concept of luxury is evolving and there is a need to create sophisticated luxury which is all about lifestyle, authenticity, and branding: in other words, a recognisable high-end construction brand.

In his view luxury involves the senses and feeling, the use of natural materials such as wood and stone, and orientation has taken on greater importance: a view of a fabulous landscape must be framed, rather than space just filled.

ma, said luxury will be in the countryside. Luxury clients want to buy not just property but outdoor space, for example with olive trees and vineyards. They want to go back 200 years, their experience of the landscape framed with beautiful architecture and design. And villas are getting bigger, as in Marbella, requiring high end architecture and engineering.

Suicide prevention

Annette Christmas

A YOUNG man climbed onto the roof of his apartment building in Palma late on Easter Saturday, with the intention of ending his life. Concerned neighbours saw him on a ledge and called 091 to alert the National Police.

A patrol quickly arrived at the address to try to prevent the man from ending his life. Police officers went up to the roof, where they struck up a conversation with him to gain his trust.

They approached him cautiously while getting him to talk about his problems. When the man was distracted for a moment, the officers made their move, quickly immobilising him by grabbing his arms and moving him away from the ledge to safety. He was then treated by medical personnel and taken to hospital for treatment.

The Samaritans in Spain provide a listening service for English speakers and can be contacted freephone on 900 525 100 . After 10pm calls can be made via the low-cost UK line on 0044 330 094 5717, which operates a 24hr service.

Jose Antonio Muro from técnitasa, a valuation consultancy based in Pal-

According to Jose Antonio Muro, “Mallorca will probably end up being the next San Tropez, whether we like it or not” and “The day Spaniards get rid of their inferiority complex, they will be unstoppable.”

Siurells in Marratxi

MARRATXI is famous for its pottery, and the extensive Fira del Fang ceramics fair the town stages in February. The Easter holidays were a chance to take advantage of free siurell-making workshops and a guided tour of the Pottery museum offered by the Department of Culture of the town council.

Siurells are usually human or animal figures and typically between around four and 12 inches high, with a base that has a whistle moulded into it. Traditionally, they are dipped in lime after firing and painted with short red, blue and green lines.

These figures are believed to date back to the bronze age and, given their similarity to Cretan and Minoan pottery figures, they would seem to have evolved from figures brought to the Balearic Islands by the Phoenicians.

Other towns in Mallorca also participated in the artisan week, such as Vilafranca de Bonany, which offered a traditional ropemaking workshop, and Sóller, which organised visits to the artisan soap workshop of Jabones de Mallorca.

LUXURY CLIENTS: Want to buy outdoor space, not just property.

Siurells, ancient and modern.

Image credit: Bor Buzz, creative commons

Credit: Annie Christmas

Responsible owners

VIENNA has launched an innovative programme to improve dog welfare and promote responsible ownership: the Vienna Dog Team, or Wiener Hunde-Team. Made up of 20 certified veterinarians trained as animal welfare officers, their main job is to patrol the city, offering advice and education on proper dog care.

The team’s goal is to help people understand the rules about owning dogs and to encourage harmony between humans and their furry friends.

While they dress like regular people, their jackets and badges make them easy to spot.

They have the power to warn dog owners and report them for breaking the rules, like having an unregistered dog, not paying dog taxes, or letting their dog

roam around without a lead or muzzle.

This initiative is part of Vienna’s broader plan to encourage responsible dog ownership.

Since 2019, the city has had an Animal Welfare Ombudsman’s Office and has required basic education for new dog owners.

Before adopting a dog, people need to learn about how to take care of them, train them, and understand their legal responsibilities.

Vienna’s success has caught the attention of the Austrian government, which is thinking about making it a law for people to take classes before getting a dog.

This could lead to other cities setting up Dog Teams too, creating a standard way of looking after dogs across Austria.

Guardians of the Tower

WITHIN the historic Tower of London, resides a fascinating group of feathered residents: the ravens.

These birds have captivated the imaginations of both locals and tourists.

They hold a special place in the folklore and superstitions surrounding the Tower. According to legend, the presence of these ravens serves as a protective charm for the Crown and the Tower itself.

It’s believed that if the ravens were ever to vanish or leave, it would bring doom not just to the monarchy but the entire nation of Britain.

This superstition has become ingrained in British folklore, although some historians question its accuracy.

The origins of this tradition are unclear, with the earliest documented reference to captive ravens at the Tower dating back to an illustration from 1883.

Sceptics, including the Tower’s official historian, suggest the legend may have been invented by the Victorians rather than based on

concrete historical evidence.

Once upon a time, wild ravens roamed the British landscape, including urban areas like London.

However, as their habitats decreased and they faced persecution, the Tower beca-

me a sanctuary for them. With official support, the ravens found refuge within the Tower’s walls, where they were and still to this day looked after by the Ravenmaster and his team of assistants.

Improving dog welfare.

Image: hundehort_wien

Instagram

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Angels to the rescue

ANGELS Nursing and Babysitting has become a reference in Mallorca for anyone needing care services.

Manager and Head Nurse of the Mallorca branch of Angels Nursing and Babysitting, Sally Luxmoore, is not one to hog the spotlight. But the services Angels Nursing offers speak for themselves.

A recent Facebook post, for example, shows a healed sore on a man’s shin. “At Angels, we are always delighted to help long-term wounds heal,” says the caption. A chronic wound which had persisted for two years before the gentleman asked for help cleared up in just two months with the Angels’ care.

Another post says that a yacht owner’s mother now plans to visit more often, thanks to the superlative care she received from the Angels during her stay.

When people take the plunge and move to Mallorca, they do not always end up seeing left-behind family members as often

as they would wish. This can affect all age groups, whether parents are sorely missed because travelling is difficult due to age or infirmity, or young parents raising children miss the benefit of extended family living nearby. The Angel philosophy is to provide care and assistance from the beginning of life to the end. No-one can completely replace close family, but an Angel can certainly step up and lend a helping hand.

While the local social healthcare provides a good service, it can be inefficient and lacking in the tender loving care an Angel can provide. An expectant mother will be more relaxed and prepared for her first birth if she is given detailed information about her birthing process and how to cope with labour pains. And mothers with newborns are often sent home without any support at all, which can cause serious difficulties.

Who can be trusted to take care of young children when their parents are working or travelling,

or if they occasionally just need a good night’s sleep? In the Angels, they have a ready-made network of selected, qualified, tried-and-trusted babysitters at their service, just a phone call away.

Sally takes pride in the fact that all staff receive regular supervision and training to keep them abreast of medical advances, techniques and new certifications, and the babysitters are all trained in first aid.

The organisation also has a large network of professional contacts to complement the clients’ own doctors and specialists, ensuring optimum care and support. Angels can liaise with medical personnel to overcome linguistic barriers, translating between English, Spanish, French, German and other languages.

Angels are thus the goto people for information and assistance during pregnancy, with a newborn baby, throughout childhood and with any aspect of illness, disease, disability, or dementia.

CONTACT DETAILS SALLY LUXMOORE: (+34) 971 691 187 or (+34) 619 070 100 info@angelsnursingagency.com

Death by storm

TWO people died in Asturias due to the forceful Storm Nelson on Holy Thursday, March 28.

but remained unconscious and was declared dead despite the efforts of the medical team.

Throughout the week, Storm Nelson has been drastically affecting the Cantabrian coast, resulting in life-threatening weather conditions.

On March 28, the Emergency Coordination Centre of 122 Austiras, received a notice from the Cudillero port, where a woman was reported falling into the sea, hitting the rocks.

As the rescue services were mobilising, another report called to inform of the woman’s rescue by a nearby boat. The victim was brought to the local port

At the same time, the emergency services were on the way to Punta de la Barra, where a witness reported a man swept into the sea by the severe wind. The Guardia Civil helicopter and SEPA attempted to rescue the man, but their efforts were complicated by the weather conditions. The victim, an English tourist, was recovered from the sea and declared dead.

The authorities are encouraging people to avoid going near the sea and cliffs during the days of extreme wind.

High-flying thrills

EUROPE’S newest attraction, the highest Tibetan bridge on the continent, has opened in Umbria, Italy.

This impressive bridge hangs 175 metres above the rugged landscape, connec-

ting the villages of Sellano and Montesanto across a valley with serene lakes.

Designed for thrill-seekers and adventurers, the bridge spans 517.5 metres and features 1,023 steps, some with gaps to add ex-

citement. A leisurely walk across takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Visitors need courage and a lack of fear of heights.

Safety harnesses are provided and attached to a secure rail along the bridge.

To access the bridge, visitors must be at least 120 centimetres tall, in good mental and physical health, and free from altitude-related issues.

Open year-round, the bridge offers stunning views in all seasons.

Tickets cost €25 and can be bought online at visitse llano.skiperformance.com, with options to choose preferred time slots.

Visitors can combine the bridge experience with a circular trek starting from Lake Vigi.

This route passes by Cascate delle Rote, through the medieval charm of Montesanto, and ends in Sellano via the iconic Tibetan bridge.

BETTER TO AVOID: Beach during a storm.

Credit: Neil Cummings, Flickr

The wine fight

John Smith

IN the same way that La Tomatina in Bunol sees a huge tomato fight, and India has the Holi paint festival, there are a number of wine fights in Spain.

According to the Bergers of Haro, the town which calls itself the capital of Rioja, the biggest and best wine fight in Spain takes place there on the Feast of San Pedro, which falls on June 29 each year.

In actual fact, the Wine Fight (Batalla Del Vino De Haros) is part of the Haro Wine Festival which takes place from June 28 to 30.

There seem to be a number of different explanations as to why the otherwise sensible people of the town, work themselves up into a frenzy and douse each other in no less than 130,000 litres of wine.

Mainly dressed in white but with a red scarf, those taking part gather in the

early morning to follow their mayor who is on horseback on a seven kilometre pilgrimage to the cliffs of Bilibio, and the Hermitage of San Felices.

Following a short mass ‘all hell breaks loose’ as those taking part queue up to collect the wine which has been transported there for them and they use buckets, water guns, jugs and indeed any spare container to drench each other in red wine.

It seemed a shame to leave the children out of all of these escapades so in 2004 a children’s wine battle was introduced and a few days before the Festival, containers full of red liquid are distributed to the children.

They go on a short pilgrimage to the local fairground where, after making an offer to the patron saint, their wine battle takes place followed by lunch.

Artificial Aitana

MEET Aitana, a 25-year-old woman from Barcelona known for her striking pink hair.

But there is the twist: she’s not real.

Aitana is Spain’s first AI-generated model, created during a tough time by Rubén Cruz, founder of The Clueless agency.

When Cruz’s business took a hit because of unreliable influencers and models, he decided to make his own.

That’s how Aitana came to be, a digital influencer representing brands.

She looks like a flawless 25-year-old and can make up to €10,000 a month, although usually it’s around €3,000.

Aitana gets paid over €1,000 for each ad she posts and has deals with big brands like Big, a sports supplement company.

She also makes money on platforms like Fanvue by sharing lingerie photos.

In just a few months, Aitana gained over 121,000 followers on Instagram and gets lots of engagement.

Some celebrities even flirt with her, thinking she’s a real person.

Cruz and his team have weekly meetings to plan Aitana’s activities, locations, and posts to keep her followers interested.

Unlike real models, Aitana has her own personality, influenced by European and oriental cultures, shown in her pink hair and gamer vibe.

Aitana’s success led to the creation of

Aitana has her own personality.

Maia, a bit more reserved, but also AI-generated.

Both names cleverly include the acronym for artificial intelligence (AI), showing they’re digital creations.

Taking a well-deserved pause from the wine fight.

Image: The Clueless agency

OWNER Achiko Tzavachisvili

who runs the Besiki Sushi restaurant has lived in Mallorca for two decades. He comes from the Greek population of Georgia, on the eastern end of the Black Sea, and is a bit of a foodie.

One thing Achiko misses from home is the food. Deciding to indulge in another favourite culinary direction, he opened Besiki Sushi in October 2021.

The popular Japanese restaurant in the Palmanova district has many regular local British and international customers.

The emphasis is on speciality home cooking made from fresh ingredients, just like Achiko’s favourite dishes back home. What really sets the restaurant apart is that everything is made from scratch when the dish is ordered.

Always fresh, Besiki Sushi

The setting is sophisticated and everyone who visits agrees that Besiki Sushi has a very welcoming atmosphere, where visitors feel at home. Achiko prides himself on having a very close relationship with customers, a large proportion of whom are regulars, and staff strive to do their best

for them every single day.

The menu includes a fresh take on everything you would expect of a sushi restaurant, including traditional starters or side dishes such as wakame and edamame, sea bream ceviche, and mango and prawn salad with sweet chilli sauce. There are also spring rolls and seaweed rolls, including vegetarian

Street Food Fest

AS traditional as nougat for Christmas, the friendly-vibe Street Food Festival returned to Port Adriano for Easter.

The 15th edition of the event was held at the central square, from mid-day to midnight on Friday, Saturday and Sunday over the Easter weekend.

Admission was free and dogs were welcome, since Port Adriano is a pet friendly port. This year there was the added bonus that all the goodies provided by the 10 eateries came with an offer of a beer.

A total of 15 catering stalls provided Mediterranean dishes, hamburgers, Mexican food, Iberian pork, fish, and vegetarian dishes, together with home-brewed beers.

options, Gunkan, nigiri Maki and temaki, and miso soups. The tempura options include whole soft-shell crab that are out of this world.

The price-quality ratio is outstanding, with combinations of 30 pieces available for €28 and other combinations available, such as 15 pieces.

Naturally, Besiki Sushi also provides an efficient takeaway service.

One new customer commented online that it is a ‘fabulous sushi restaurant, one of the best we have been to!’ They apparently enjoyed the food so much that they went to the restaurant twice during their week’s holiday.

Thomas W. comments that

after he and his companions had a few drinks at the venue, they were so impressed by the warm welcome that they booked a table for the next evening. His enthusiastic review continues: ‘… the food was by FAR the best Japanese sushi I have had outside Soho or Kensington (DoZo Restaurants). If you are in PalmaNova and are lucky enough to get a table then this is a must try restaurant, guys!!!!’

To avoid confusion, it is worth mentioning that there is another restaurant that goes by the same name in the centre of Palma, but it is no longer directly connected to the Palmanova Besiki Sushi: the staff believed in it so much that they took it over from Achiko when the opportunity arose.

ADVERTISING FEATURE SURF AND TURF AT C’AN PESCADOR

IF a restaurant near the beach attracts locals, it must be good. Mallorcans are canny and discerning when it comes to price and quality, and Ca’n Pescador in Playa de Muro is a favourite spot for many local families and couples for its Mediterranean vibe and sensational food.

The location is very close to the little bridge that divides the bustling end of Playa de Muro from the relatively quieter residential area of Albufera with its fourstar hotels, where many locals have their summer houses. Thus, a stone’s throw from shops catering to tourists lies this authentic Mallorcan experience which also caters to an international clientele.

The ample terrace is upholstered in fabric printed with the pretty traditional lenguas patterns in blue and white, with napkins to match. In summer there is often soothing live jazz both at lunchtime and in the evening.

Staff are multilingual and discreet, very friendly and attentive, seemingly

selected for their sense of humour.

But the food is the real star of the Ca’n Pescador experience. This is essentially a high-quality fish restaurant, offering the finest grilled wild sea bream and dorada as well as many battered fish dishes.

The absolute hit is the speciality Ca’n Pescador fried seafood platter, which includes exquisite baby squid (chiperones), calamares and whitebait, all perfectly crisped and tender. This modestly priced starter is intended to serve at least four people.

Salads are also available, and a fabulous gourmet Aberdeen Angus hamburger, plus seven other prime meat dishes.

Book here: www.canpescador.es/contacto-horarios-reservas/ Contact: 971 893 134 • info@canpescador.es

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Triple lock

THE UK’S Chancellor Jeremy Hunt told the BBC that the Conservatives would retain the state pension’s triple lock system were they to win the next election. The cost of the increase based on whichever was highest out of earnings’ growth, inflation or 2.5 per cent would be met by growing the economy, Hunt explained.

Grown up

SPAIN’S gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 2.5 per cent in 2023, the InstituteforNationalStatistics Institute (INE) revealed on March 26. According to the INE’s definitive figures, this was five times greater than the eurozone’s 0.5 per cent average and it was also the highest amongst Europe’s principal economies.

Record year

THE JD Wetherspoon pub chain’s pre-tax profits shot up to £36 million (€42 million) in the half-year ending January 28, 2024, almost eight times as much as the same period last year. “Healthy” trade over Christmas and no Covid restrictions brought a £991 million (€1.15 billion) turnover, an increase of 8.2 per cent.

Energy boost

INDUSTRIAL overheads fell by 8.2 per cent in Spain in February 2024 compared with the same month in 2022, and were 4.3 percentage points below January’s figures, official statistics revealed. The February reduction was the result of cheaper electricity tariffs which were 24.2 per cent lower than in January.

Answers needed

A SUBPOSTMASTER asked the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to examine how the £58m (€67.6 million) Horizon compensation fund was used. He wished to know how much was paid to lawyers and litigation funders, but the law firm which represented the postmasters has twice declined to provide details.

STAT OF WEEK

€120.3 billion

was received in IRPF income tax by Spain’s tax authority Hacienda in 2023, revenue which was 10 per cent more than in the record year of 2022.

Another Rolls-Royce boost

AUSTRALIA is allocating Aus$4.6 billion (€2.8 billion) from its Aukus fund to ensure that Rolls-Royce’s nuclear reactors for its submarines arrive on time.

Aukus, a trilateral partnership between Australia, the UK and the US which was agreed in 2021, was created to support each government’s security and defence interests and involves assisting Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.

These will be built in Adelaide by the British multinational aerospace company, BAE Systems.

The Aukus project, which is jointly funded by the Ministry of De-

fence, will help to boost employment in Derby and, as well as increasing Rolls-Royce’s output, will also require building additional office space.

“The funding will enable the Rolls-Royce factory in Derby to operate at an increased rate of production,” the Australian government announced.

AMANCIO ORTEGA’s property investments have spread to Luxembourg with the acquisition of the Royal Park office block.

The 85-year-old Inditex founder, who remains the clothing empire’s principal shareholder, has paid €165 million for the building in the centre of Luxembourg city via Pontegadea Group, his investment vehicle. The newly-renovated 10,000square complex, which is 95 per cent leased to law firms and private equity companies, belonged until now to Baltisse, an investment holding group that is owned by Belgian businessman Filip Balcaen.

The Aukus fund investment is regarded as crucial to ensuring that nuclear reactors will be ready in time to meet the needs of both Australia and the UK, although the former’s government has yet to announce exactly what the funding will cover over the next 10 years.

Rolls-Royce was able to provide more details, revealing in late March that it was already working on doubling the size of its existing Rolls-Royce Submarines site.

“Now jointly funded by the UK Ministry of Defence and Australia’s Defence Department, the expansion work announced last summer will create over 1,000 new jobs in Derby across a range of disciplines, including manufacturing and engineering,” the company’s website announced.

“It will also see new manufacturing and office facilities on recently acquired land surrounding the existing Raynesway site.”

Ortega goes further

Better all round Jobs for Coventry

A CHINESE company which manufactures batteries for electric vehicles could invest £1.2 billion in a new gigafactory near Coventry.

EVE Energy, which employs 28,000 staff worldwide, was said to be discussing construction of a 5.7-million square foot (529,547-square metre) plant. It would be part of the future UK Centre for Electrification, an investment zone in the West Midlands.

Sources close to the discussions confirmed that EVE was interested in the project, which would create approximately 6,000 jobs in collaboration with local councils and Coventry airport.

THE UK’s economy is about to “turn the corner” according to S&P Global.

The financial information services group predicted on March 26 that with high inflation waning in 2024, a cut in the interest rate was on the cards for this summer.

A “resilient” jobs market and improved purchasing power would combine to herald a recovery in consumption, with the economy expanding by 0.3 per cent in 2024, S & P said. This should increase by 1.4 per cent in 2025 and by 1.7 per cent in 2026 and 2027.

These forecasts clashed with the Bank of England, which in February foresaw the UK’s Gross Domestic Product rising by a quarter of a percent in 2024, three quarters of a percent in 2025 and by 1 per cent in 2026.

THE BBVA bank is breathing down Santander’s neck as it aspires to occupy the Number Two slot as Spain’s second bank after CaixaBank.

Until now Santander has been well ahead of BBVA although the dividends paid by both over the last three years demonstrate that the gap could eventually close.

Since 2021, BBVA has distributed €13.19 billion to shareholders, including extraordinary buybacks of €4.16 billion, amounting to 20.6 per cent of its current market valuation, according to Reuters calculations.

In contrast, Santander paid out €12.8 billion, 18.4 per cent of its market capitalisation.

Baltisse’s attempts to sell the building to Generali, the Italian insurance company, or German asset managers, Union Investment, fell through in 2023. Ortega is now believed to have bought at a lower price as the Pontegadea transaction would have been an outright sale.

In 2022, the last year with available figures, Pontegadea’s property portfolio was worth more than €18 billion as the company diversified with logistics and energy assets.

Telefonica stake

THE Spanish government now owns 3 per cent of Telefonica.

The State Industrial Holding Corporation (SEPI) paid €700 million for 175 million shares costing €3.99 each.

Now that Caixabank has reduced its Telefonica holding to 2.5 per cent after selling 1 per cent of its shares, the Spanish government is Telefonica’s fourth-largest shareholder after BBVA, Blackrock and Saudi Arabia’s STC Group.

The government will increase its Telefonica holding to 10 per cent “as soon as possible” in order to offset the STC’s stake, on the grounds that the Spanish telecommunications company is strategic owing to its security and defence contracts.

THE Manchester-based Cooperative Bank, with 50 branches and 3,5000 employees, intends to cut its workforce by 12 per cent.

After November 2023’s “strategic review” the bank revealed in December that it was negotiating a merger with the Coventry Building Society, creating a mutual with £90 billion (€104.9 billion) in assets.

“Changes across the bank are essential for delivering the next phase of the strategic plan,” the bank announced on March 26. It would work closely with its trade union and support the 400 employees impacted by the restructuring, it added.

A POSSIBLE counter-offer to Magyar Vagon’s Talgo takeover bid pushed up the Spanish rolling stock manufacturer’s shares by 5.5 per cent.

Finance daily El Ecomista revealed that Talgo’s principal shareholder, Trilantic Fund, had been in touch with the Swiss train manufacturer Stadler.

A deal could be attractive, and not only because Stadler, worth €2.8 billion, is five times bigger than Talgo (€540 million), which in turn is bigger than Magyar Vagon.

It would also allay the Spanish government’s fears that Russian money could be involved.

Photo credit: La Sexta

Photo credit: BAE Systems

NUCLEAR SUBMARINES: Central to the Aukus defence interests.

AMANCIO ORTEGO: Luxembourg addition to his property portfolio.

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.85

EUR/USD: Up from $1.08 to $1.09

Trade in the euro has been mixed in recent weeks. While the single currency was supported by its negative correlation with the US dollar, a dovish shift from the European Central Bank (ECB) has acted as a key headwind.

While ECB President Christine Lagarde appeared to downplay expectations for an April interest rate cut in the wake of the bank’s March policy meeting, subsequent comments from ECB policymakers have repeatedly referenced a potential spring rate cut.

Elsewhere, some uneven Eurozone data also contributed to the volatility in the euro so far in March.

Going into April EUR investors will be highly sensitive to any

CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EURO ROCKED BY DOVISH ECB SIGNALS, US DOLLAR SLUMPS ON JUNE RATE CUT BETS

signs the ECB might be encouraged to cut interest rates. Of particular focus will be March’s consumer price index. Another cooling of inflation could bolster rate cut bets and weigh heavily on the euro.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.16

GBP/USD: Up from $1.26 to $1.27

The pound traded in a wide range over the past month, amid uncertainty of when the Bank of England (BoE) will start cutting interest rates.

This was driven in large part by some mixed UK data releases, as well as the latest forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) in which it predicted domestic inflation would return to 2% in the second quarter of 2024.

Sterling then faced notable selling pressure in the second half of March in the wake of the

BoE’s latest policy meeting, in which no policymakers voted for an interest rate hike for the first time since 2021.

GBP investors will be keeping a close eye on UK data over the coming month as they seek to determine, whether the BoE may cut rates before the summer.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Down from $0.79 to $0.78

USD/EUR: Down from €0.92 to €0.91

The US dollar faced some notable selling pressure over the past four weeks, with USD exchange rates striking multi-month lows in the first half of March.

Driving this pullback in USD were expectations the Fed is getting closer to cutting interest rates.

The US dollar’s worst levels came in the wake of the latest US payroll figures. A surprise rise in unemployment coupled with January’s figures being revised sharply lower stoked bets for a June rate cut.

Stronger-than-expected US inflation figures briefly revived USD demand as it trimmed Fed rate cut bets, before some dovish comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell in the wake of the US central bank’s latest policy meeting applied fresh pressure to the ‘Greenback’.

Looking ahead, the USD selling bias may remain in place so long as US data reinforces bets for a June rate cut from the Fed. Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

A long, long winter

I’VE never been particularly fond of flying. I truly do envy a number of friends and colleagues who inform me, often with a barely discernible smirk, that their holiday begins ‘when they board the plane’. Mine only even becomes a possibility when the reverse thrust kicks in on landing! At my age, because of nature’s rather more frequent insistence on visits to the loo, I always try to obtain an aisle seat. Consequently, most of my air travel experience is centred around the ‘goings on’ within the plane instead of without. Last week I visited Denmark.

On my return trip I was offered seat 1A. Outside of the cockpit, this is probably the best seat on the plane. It is a window seat and because it’s in the first row there is plenty of leg room and space to visit the loo without major disruption.

I accepted the offer and, although

I have used the occasional window seat in the past, 1A is something rather special. With clear skies most of the way the whole, virtually panoramic scenario that unfolded was truly breathtaking.

Most impressive view to me was the magnificent beauty of the Alps as we traversed it at sunset, which has to be the most perfect time of all. What was not so reassuring was the revelation that, despite the illusion of vast uninterrupted clear skies, the sky ways are in fact nothing more than an airborne extension of the M25! At least five fellow flying machines hurtled into and out of my sightline, at combined speeds that truly startles the imagination.

Flight trails above and below silently hung as proof of recent jet borne travellers. It was not until we flew through one of these trails with quite a resounding bump, that I realised that there were also others at the same height as us, and not many seconds away either. Mmm, wasn’t too keen on that. Anyway a truly eye opening and extre-

mely pleasant experience. Thank you Norwegian airlines, still one of the best. Can’t quite believe I’m actually scribing this from a hospital bed - yet again. My bed bound stay overs seem to have become almost habitual!

This time I hit the deck when my beautiful, but quite muscular pet hound, bashed into me like a runaway express train speedily catching up with me, while I somewhat breathlessly traipsed down the hill after one of our daily excursions.

Legs up and akimbo, the old nut hit the deck and… well the rest is history. All seems ok now however.

Although another Easter has passed me by I’m hoping to be out in a few days. I certainly better be; I start the season’s chirping this weekend. Yaay, it’s been a long, long winter.

God bless Son Espases hospital. One more brain scan to go. Let’s just hope it’s still in there!

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

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Balloon Great Wall

George Cunningham CHINA’S Canton Tower recently showcased an extraordinary sight that blended ancient and modern landmarks: a gigantic balloon sculpture of the Great Wall of China.

This stunning creation earned the Guinness World Record title for the largest balloon sculpture of a landmark.

Encircling the Tower, the balloon version of the Great Wall is impressive, measuring over 39 metres (127.95 feet) in length, width, and height combined. It includes three watchtowers and two corridors. It is made up of an incredible 100,000 golden balloons, crafted using traditional balloon binding techniques with a cross structure.

Created by a team of 20 talented balloon artists over three days, this installation brought together historical and contemporary landmarks.

Named the ‘Balloon Great Wall’, it not only united two iconic structures from di erent eras but also drew in crowds of visitors.

The signi cance of this achievement was acknowledged by the manager of the Canton Tower, who highlighted that it was the rst major event after the Lunar New Year in 2024.

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• News Across The Regions

Costa del Sol A dog’s tale

MIJAS Local Police has a very special recruit in its ranks, Bobby, the first dog in the country trained to improve the reading skills of children, something that is achieved, according to officer David Gutiérrez, “through the link created by the person reading and the hearing dog.”

A pilot programme las been launched with the El Albero school in Las Lagunas, working with seven pupils with special educational needs. It has only been running for a month, but progress, as reported by Mijas Comunicacion, is clear.

At four months old, Bobby, is now also receiving additional training as a sniffer dog, a task that he will soon be carrying out although, for the moment, his mission is in class with the reading project.

Axarquia Join AAR

AXARQUIA Animal Rescue (AAR) charity store in Torre del Mar is on the lookout for volunteers to support their noble cause. The store, serving as a crucial fundraising avenue for AAR, offers various shifts on Tuesdays: 10am to 2pm, 10am to 12pm, and 12pm to 2pm.

Volunteers require no prior experience, just a willingness to contribute their time and have an interest in the welfare of abandoned and abused animals in the Axarquia region. AAR, a voluntary rescue and homing charity, relies heavily on the generosity of volunteers to operate efficiently. Interested individuals can reach out to Liz on 657 293 663 to lend a hand and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals. Joining AAR’s mission not only fosters community spirit but also directly impacts the well-being of animals in need.

Costa Blanca South Historic milestone

IF 2023 was a historic milestone for the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández airport, with record-breaking passenger numbers, 2024 is poised to surpass this achievement.

Airlines are offering up to one million more seats during this year’s high season, from April to October, indicating the potential for another historic year.

In 2023, the airport witnessed its highest passenger volume in history, welcoming 15.7 million passengers, surpassing the pre-pandemic record of 15m passengers in 2019.

Despite the pandemic-induced slowdown in tourism, passenger numbers rebounded as the health situation improved, culminating in 2023 being the best year to date.

Forecasts suggest 2024 will eclipse these records, with significant growth in both high-season seat offerings and passenger numbers during the traditionally slower months.

Costa Blanca North Benidorm boost

BENIDORM has authorised the largest development plan in its history, building more than 2,300 homes, 20 hotels, 660 public houses and more.

The Ensanche Levante plan was approved on March 27, revitalising more than 570,000 square metres of underdeveloped land.

“This is the most important urban sector in the municipality in terms of surface area,” said the mayor of Benidorm, Toni Perez.

1,564 holiday homes and at least 780 residential apartments will be built, alongside 20 new hotels and three shopping centres.

The plan will also generate 660 public housing units and educational centres.”

To continue the city’s sustainability focus, a central park of 61,629 square metres and 13,000 square metres of gardens will be installed, transforming the city.

The time scale for the project is yet to be released.

Almeria Joining forces

TWO private hospitals in Almeria, both in the capital, are teaming up to help over 6,000 people needing surgery. They’ve formed a Temporary Business Union (UTE) to win a contract from the Andalucian Health Service (SAS) to cut waiting lists.

The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs aims to ensure these surgeries happen in private facilities by year-end to reduce waiting times. Initially, the government will spend about €17 million on this collaboration.

HLA Mediterraneo Hospital and Vithas Virgen del Mar Hospital are partnering through their companies. This alliance will handle all external public health surgical operations. The contract covers a wide range of surgical procedures, including hernia operations, knee surgeries, gallbladder procedures, cataract surgeries, carpal tunnel treatments, hip and shoulder surgeries.

Costa Calida Garden Party

ON May 11, Age Concern Costa Calida is set to dazzle locals and visitors with their much-anticipated Spring Garden Party. From 12pm to 5pm, the Social Centre at 2b Avenida de los Covachos in Camposol Sector C will transform into a vibrant hub of entertainment and community.

For just €10, attendees will indulge in a delightful array of festivities. The highlight of the event includes a sizzling BBQ alongside a fashion show, promising a perfect fusion of taste and style.

Guests can enjoy a buffet, accompanied by refreshing beverages such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks. The ambiance will be further enhanced with the beats of DJ Carl, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Join them for an unforgettable celebration of community spirit and joy!

SPF sufficiency

USING foundation with SPF might seem like a convenient way to combine make-up and sun protection, but it may not offer

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Pepper power

ded throughout the

BLACK PEPPER OIL , derived from the Piper nigrum plant, is not just a culinary staple but also a potent health elixir. This aromatic oil boasts a plethora of benefi ts, primarily due to its high piperine content. It’s known for its remarkable ability to enhance digestive health, stimulating the secretion of digestive juices to aid in more effi cient breakdown of foods. Moreover, black pepper oil exhibits antioxidant properties, fi ghting free radicals

and reducing oxidative stress, thereby supporting overall cellular health. Its warming and circulatory benefi ts also make it a favourite for soothing muscle discomfort and promoting blood flow. Additionally, black pepper oil can aid in respiratory health by easing congestion and promoting clear breathing, making it a versatile addition to any wellness routine.

Shutterstock/ Formatoriginal

Shutterstock/ Ariotto

PETS

Bless you

DOGS, much like their human counterparts, engage in sneezing for a multitude of reasons, and comprehending this common behaviour offers valuable insights into their health and communication.

Primarily, sneezing in dogs acts as a natural defense mechanism, expelling irritants like dust or pollen from their nasal passages. Playful excitement can also induce sneezing, especially during energetic activities. Moreover, dogs may sneeze to communicate submission or invite interaction with their human or canine companions.

However, prolonged or excessive sneezing warrants attention, as it might indicate underlying health concerns such as allergies, infections, or nasal irritations. Monitoring sneezing patterns alongside other symptoms allows pet owners to discern between natural behaviours and potential health issues, ensuring the well-being of their cherished furry friends. If in doubt, consulting a veterinarian is a prudent step toward maintaining the overall health and happiness of dogs.

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Veggie debate

THE feasibility of a vegetarian diet for dogs sparks debate among pet owners and veterinarians.

While dogs are omnivores, capable of thriving on plant-based diets, careful consideration of nutritional requirements is paramount. Protein, vitamins, and minerals sourced from animal products are essential for canine health.

A well-planned vegetarian diet with adequate protein from plant sources like lentils, beans, and tofu can be viable, but professional guidance is crucial.

Supplements may be necessary to ensure dogs receive essential nutrients like B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Balancing the diet with vegetables and grains is vital. Consulting with a veterinarian to tailor a nutritionally sound plan based on individual health, age, and breed is recommended, ensuring dogs thrive on a vegetarian diet without compromising their well-being.

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Tipped for Red Bull

RUMOURS have swirled since the German press leaked that Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, is keen on bringing Fernando Alonso on board.

On Monday, March 25, following the Australian Grand Prix, discussions between Red Bull’s leadership and the Aston Martin driver reportedly took a signifi cant leap forward.

This revelation comes despite earlier speculations that Carlos Sainz was the preferred choice after his impressive victory.

The proposed signing would see Alonso replacing Checo Perez for the next season, with both drivers’ contracts expiring at the end of this year.

Horner, facing criticism and a strained relationship with Max Verstappen, sees the two-time world champion as an ideal teammate for the Dutchman.

The vision is for Alonso and Verstappen to dominate until 2026, when new regulations

will be introduced. Although the duration of the offer remains undisclosed, the aim is to have Alonso join Verstappen from the next championship season.

According to F1 Insider, Horner is depicted as the ‘sole governor’ of Red Bull.

This portrayal might seem

exaggerated, yet Horner’s infl uence has grown despite recent controversies, including accusations of inappropriate behaviour.

Nonetheless, he has maintained his position and is now spearheading the planning for 2025.

Alonso’s continuation with Aston Martin was initially expected to be decided by the early races of the season.

However, after a disappointing start and a controversial FIA penalty, his future remains in doubt.

Previously, Horner had attempted to sign Alonso in 2013 to partner with Sebastian Vettel, but was vetoed by Helmut Marko and Dietrich Mateschitz, favouring younger drivers.

This potential move could mark a signifi cant shift in Formula 1’s dynamics, refl ecting Red Bull’s ambition to maintain its competitive edge in the sport.

Formula 1 €4bn deal

European timeshare challenge

IN February, the Premier League sanctioned the acquisition of a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United by Jim Ratcliffe, the head of Ineos and also the primary proprietor of French club Nice since 2019.

This move, finalised last December for £300 million, has sparked a negotiation with UEFA to ensure Manchester United’s eligibility for European tournaments.

ON Wednesday, March 27, reports emerged that Formula 1 owners, Liberty Media, are entering exclusive negotiations to acquito Liberty Media’s current

ambitions, as it seeks to navigate similar regulatory landscapes. The deal’s completion would mark a significant

teworthy. Their innovative approach to marketing, including a strong emphasis on social media presence and collaborative projects

a similar business model that includes broadcasting rights, event hosting fees, and merchandise sales.

In 2023, Formula 1 re-

Ratcliffe’s dual ownership presents a potential conflict with UEFA’s timeshare rules, which aim to prevent any single entity from gaining an unfair advantage through ownership in multiple clubs.

UEFA’s stipulations mandate that if two clubs under the same ownership qualify for the same competition, only the higher-placed team in their domestic league will be eligible, thereby removing any doubt that the shared ownership doesn’t confer any advantage.

This year, Aston Villa and Brighton, despite their interconnected ownerships, have successfully competed in Europe, setting a precedent for Manchester United’s current situation.

Ratcliffe emerged as a frontrunner in the acquisition race, willing to settle for a minority stake over full control, unlike Qatari investors who proposed a £5 billion takeover.

His approach won over the Glazers, who have been at the helm since 2005, in hope of revitalising the club’s fortunes.

Manchester United anticipates that Ratcliffe’s investment will herald a return to the glory days absent since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.

Among Ratcliffe’s initial moves is the ambitious plan to replace Old Trafford with a new £2.4 billion stadium, aiming to revitalise the northern region of England.

This development is poised to become a regional landmark, signifying a new era for the club and its surroundings.

Fernando Alonso.

Credit: alo_ofi cial/X

Credit: Thomas McAtee/Shutterstock.com

Old Trafford.

MOTOGP: Rider Marc Marquez.

Credit: Abdul Razak Latif/Shutterstock.com