Capital and cultural heart of Spain, a growing European hub.
Since late July 2026, fast-moving wildfires have forced more than 200,000 people to flee across southwestern France and central Spain. Fires have burned toward Bordeaux and areas west of Madrid, injured dozens of firefighters and prompted France to deploy soldiers and Spain to declare a national emergency. Smoke has worsened air quality across large regions.
Wildfires in south-west France and central Spain have forced hundreds of thousands to flee homes and holiday spots. France has mobilised the army and requested EU support as authorities declare a national emergency in Spain. Evacuations hit Cap Ferret, Bordeaux, and Madrid areas; fires remain volatile with continued heat and wind.
A Ryanair-operated Boeing 737 suffered an engine-related incident on July 10 near Thessaloniki, injuring a passenger who was saved by fellow travelers. The flight returned to Thessaloniki and landed safely. The NTSB leads the investigation with Greece participating, while airlines defend safety record amid ongoing inquiry.
The UK will experience a deep partial solar eclipse on 12 August, with up to 95% coverage in the South West and around 90% in London. UKHSA warns of eye damage without proper protection. In New Zealand, Dunedin is central to a total solar eclipse on 22 July 2028, drawing tens of thousands of visitors and extensive tourism activity.
France and Spain confront unprecedented wildfires as heat rises; hundreds of thousands evacuated; authorities warn the flames are moving erratically and intensifying despite firefighting efforts.
Wildfires in southwest France and parts of Spain have forced large-scale evacuations, with authorities warning of worsening conditions. The UK government has issued travel guidance urging caution and to follow local authorities. Spain has declared a national emergency in Madrid and Avila; France is evacuating campsites and residential areas as fires threaten Bordeaux and other regions.
The pope has urged world leaders to welcome migrants and crack down on traffickers during a week-long Spain tour, concluding in the Canary Islands. He emphasizes dignity for all migrants, warns smugglers, and asks for greater integration and support as thousands seek safety in Europe.
[Not included in this response]
Spain faces intensified political strain as court rulings involve the prime minister’s wife, brother, and former allies in corruption cases tied to public contracts and the Plus Ultra bailout. Ábalos and GarcÍa have been convicted; Zapatero under investigation. Sánchez denies wrongdoing and calls it a smear, while opposition pushes for change.
Two early‑season heatwaves have broken June temperature records across western Europe, pushing many locations above 40°C, triggering red alerts, disrupting transport and power, and causing dozens of deaths in France and other countries. Scientists have said human‑caused warming has made this event far more likely and night‑time temperatures have remained unusually high.
Europe endures a blistering heatwave as saharan heat and a high-pressure dome push temperatures past 40 C in multiple countries. Hospitals, rail networks and wildlife centres report strain, with authorities issuing alerts and evacuations where needed.
Zoox has unveiled interior and interface improvements to its bidirectional robotaxi as it eyes a wider rollout later this year, including a lighter interior, new seating, larger cupholders, improved touchscreens, and two-way audio for riders and first responders. Production is planned at the Hayward facility with up to 100 vehicles weekly pending regulatory approval.
European heat waves persist with record-setting temperatures across multiple countries. Authorities warn of health risks, power strains, and disruptions to travel and schooling. Forecasters expect a gradual cooldown starting Friday, as the continent faces a second consecutive heat dome driven by high pressure.
The European-led response to Russia's shadow fleet has intensified, with France and Britain intercepting suspected vessels near Sicily as Kyiv reports further strikes on Russian energy infrastructure. Zelensky has authorized a 40-day operation aimed at pressuring Moscow to end the war, while Moscow archives a substantial collection of Ukrainian books.
Public Health France has recorded 5,764 excess deaths between 17 June and 2 July during an exceptional June heatwave, the highest heat-related excess mortality since 2003. France recorded 21,674 deaths against 15,910 expected; two-thirds of the excess were people aged 75 and older and more than half occurred between 25–27 June.
France and Spain face renewed heat, with forecasts reaching up to 44C in parts of the southeast. June’s heat has already caused thousands of excess deaths, prompting warnings of increased forest fires and pressure on hospitals.
Spain has launched a large-scale regularisation program offering a one-year, renewable residence permit to undocumented migrants who have spent at least five months in the country and have a clean criminal record. The measure aims to strengthen the economy and uphold human rights amid aging demographics. Initial applications exceed government expectations, with more than 900,000 received by mid-June and processing ongoing.
Several high-profile transfers across European football have reshaped squads this week, with notable deals including Ismael Saibari to Bayern and Cerci to Arsenal, and Grimaldo departing Leverkusen.
Naomi Osaka has advanced to the Wimbledon fourth round, defeating Daria Kasatkina in straight sets. Her grass-season form has improved dramatically, she has not dropped a set in her first four matches, and she faces a high-stakes last-16 clash against Aryna Sabalenka or Jelena Ostapenko. Fashion and confidence combined to propel her on Centre Court.
Argentina secures a 3-2 win over Cape Verde after extra time, with Messi’s early goal followed by a Cape Verde comeback and a dramatic own goal sealing the result; Argentina advance to face Egypt in the last 16 while Cape Verde exit with their reputation enhanced.
The Rolling Stones have released Foreign Tongues, continuing Hackney Diamonds-era momentum. The album blends blues, disco and rock with sharp political edges, including references to Musk and US politics, while Mick Jagger’s voice remains a defining force at 82.
The US and Iran have exchanged fresh strikes this weekend and on Monday, reversing a recent interim ceasefire and re‑opening doubt over control of the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump has declared the ceasefire "over," ordered further strikes and revoked a temporary oil waiver. Oil has jumped into the high $70s–$80s and global markets have fallen.
Extensive wildfires are burning across France, Spain and Italy as heatwaves drive arid conditions. Evacuations continue, hundreds of firefighters operate across multiple fronts, and authorities warn that heat and dry vegetation will keep fire risk high in coming days.
An 18-year-old from Pamplona and an 86-year-old British man are among more than 57 people injured during the Sanfermines running of the bulls in Pamplona. The eight-day festival sees thousands sprint through narrow streets ahead of six bulls; gorings and broken bones are common, though deaths are rare.
A high-profile political comment has sparked condemnation across Europe ahead of a World Cup semifinal between Spain and France. Former Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy wrote that the French team lacks French players. French and Spanish leaders have decried the remarks as racist, while France prepares to face Spain in Dallas.
Multiple outlets report ongoing concerns about Meta’s AI-enabled glasses, highlighting privacy risks, bystander recording, and safety safeguards while retailers push mainstream adoption. New developments include anti-surveillance eyewear and regulatory probes, as stories continue to unfold this week.
Album and live review roundup shows veteran icons collaborating with younger artists across genres, highlighting a shift toward genre-blurring rock and electronic influences. Guardians The Guardian notes Loathe's radical departure in A Stranger to You; Scotsman highlights Foreigh Tongues with star guest appearances; Independent spotlights Wolf Alice, Moby, Lorde and CMAT at Madrid festival. Reviews suggest a wave of veteran swagger meeting new electronic and indie sensibilities.
Keyne Yamal, the three-year-old brother of Lamine Yamal, has become a viral sensation during Spain’s World Cup run, celebrated for his playful moments in the stands as his elder brother leads Spain to a likely title. The Guardian, BBC and New York Post highlight his growing fame as social media embraces the youngster.
Ukraine has seen ongoing international backing amid Russia's invasion, with leaders pledging new aid and steps to bolster Kyiv's defenses. Drones and missile strikes continue, hitting targets across Ukraine and Russia, while regional summits and high-level visits underscore a coordinated response to the conflict.
France and Morocco have strengthened their security, defence and energy cooperation during a high-level two-day visit, as both nations push for closer economic ties while facing fresh allegations that Morocco used Pegasus spyware against French officials.
Argentina has defeated England 2-1, with Messi providing two key assists as Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez score. Argentina eye back-to-back World Cup titles, a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962. The team now advances to face Spain in the final.
France and Morocco are expanding security, energy and investment cooperation amid Pegasus spyware allegations. Lecornu’s visit signals a renewed strategic partnership as Paris seeks stability in North Africa and Rabat presses economic and technological collaboration.
Kimi Antonelli has claimed pole at Spa-Francorchamps, extending his title lead. Verstappen starts behind with a heavy grid penalty, Norris is third. The Hungarian GP is approaching, with teams looking to finalise setups before the break.
A sweeping heatwave has intensified wildfires across southern France and parts of central Spain. Evacuations are underway, dozens of firefighting aircraft are deployed, and authorities warn that the fires could worsen as temperatures stay high.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim the 2026 World Cup. Netanyahu has publicly supported Argentina, while Spain’s Sánchez condemns Israel’s Gaza campaign. The final has become a global stage for competing political loyalties, drawing reactions from Palestinian supporters and international actors.
Spain has secured its second World Cup title after Ferran Torres scores in extra time against Argentina in New Jersey. The victory follows a dramatic match and triggers celebrations across Spain, while a fountain collapse in Ciudad Rodrigo casts a shadow over the night.
Spain has clinched a second World Cup after Ferran Torres scores in extra time, beating Argentina 1-0 in New Jersey. A victory parade through Madrid follows, drawing millions as players, including coach Luis de la Fuente, celebrate with the World Cup trophy. The celebration spans streets to Cibeles Square, with high temperatures and royal and political attendance.
Trump has publicly escalated threats against Iran while pursuing options that include a broader military campaign with Israel or a renewed ceasefire to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Multiple outlets report that intelligence suggests Iran may have moved centrifuges and uranium to fortified underground sites, with Washington leaning toward a hardline response.
The UK has seen a record-hot July and persistent drought across large parts of England and Wales. Hosepipe bans remain in force as cooling rain is forecast to be patchy and limited this weekend. Forecasters warn that heat and dry conditions will continue into next week, with a potential return of hotter spells in parts of the country.
European wildfires have accelerated in France and Spain, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate and drawing in international aid as heatwaves deepen drought and fuel fire intensity. Firefighting efforts are ongoing as authorities warn the crisis will persist with shifting conditions.
European heatwaves have intensified with Spain facing temperatures near record highs, intensifying wildfires across the country. France, Italy and Portugal are also affected, with droughts and heat-related concerns rising. Authorities warn of extreme fire risk and heat-related health threats.
Manchester City have appointed Enzo Maresca as their new manager. He inherits a squad led by Rodri, who is facing back surgery, while key players and staff prepare for a transition after Pep Guardiola’s 10-year spell. Maresca stresses patience and continuity while pledging to build on City’s structure. This update follows his unveiling and comments on Rodri’s injury and team plans.
A wildfire near Valencia has forced 16,000 evacuations as blazes spread. In France, evacuations extend from Bordeaux to towns beyond, with authorities citing rapid spread and high temperatures. The government has mobilized resources as more aid arrives from Madrid.
Races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled earlier this year due to regional conflict. With the calendar tight, F1 is considering Sepang in Malaysia to host a double-trace schedule in late September to early October, effectively substituting a Bahrain date and linking Asia and Europe before Singapore. The Bahrain event would be branded as Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia for contractual reasons.
Lando Norris has won the Hungarian Grand Prix, marking McLaren’s first victory of the season. Oscar Piastri retires with a gearbox fault after leading for a large portion of the race. Max Verstappen finishes second, while Kimi Antonelli extends his championship lead. Hamilton receives a five-second penalty for speeding in the pit lane and finishes fifth.