Stories from Spain

The Spanish government coalition faces instability after a decree failed due to a joint vote by the PP, Vox, and Junts, alongside abstentions from the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV).

The Railway Accident Investigation Commission concluded that a rail fracture caused the high-speed train accident in Adamuz, Córdoba. The commission submitted its report to the Montoros court. Investigators ruled out previous anomalies in the involved trains. The report described the event as a matter of bad luck. The Railway Accident Investigation Commission (CIAF) reported that a broken rail on the high-speed line at kilometer 3 was the primary cause of the Adamuz train derailment. The accident occurred on March 18 and resulted in 46 deaths. Experts reached this conclusion after analyzing black boxes, security camera footage, and driver calls. The commission is submitting a new report to the Montoro court.

Researchers in Spain have developed an artificial intelligence platform designed for the early identification of Alzheimer's disease. The system analyzes acoustic and linguistic signals in human speech to detect patterns of cognitive decline.

The Supreme Court has begun the decisive phase of the 'Masks Case' trial involving alleged corruption within the Ministry of Transport formerly led by José Luis Ábalos. His appearance follows an eight-hour testimony by businessman Víctor de Aldama. Lieutenant Colonel Balas, head of the UCO, and several agents opened the trial for the Mask Case at the Supreme Court this past Tuesday. On Thursday, Culdo García testified for seven hours, answering questions from Chief Prosecutor Alejandro Luzon and defense attorney Leticia de la Oz. Civil Guard elite unit reports have placed Ávalos, Cóldo, and Aldama on trial. Testimonies from Balas and Commander Montes detailed the alleged criminal organization's structure. Aldama reportedly acted as the cashier, Cóldo as a mediator, and Ávalos as the leader. The investigation suggests the group operated with alleged support from within the ministry.

The regional government (Junta) has issued a fine to the socialist Arjona City Council. The penalty follows the discovery of construction works conducted without permits within an archaeological zone.

Haley Baptiste secured her largest career victory by defeating world number one Irina Sabalenka at the Madrid Open. Baptiste is scheduled to play world number eight Mirra Andreeva in the semifinals on Thursday. The athlete described the victory as a special moment shared with her brothers. The victory occurred in Spain during the WTA 1000 tournament. The victory allows the American player to advance in the tournament. Baptiste expressed confidence in her current form following the match. Haley Baptiste is scheduled to face world number 8 Mira Andreva in the semi-final round on Thursday. 1 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka was eliminated in the quarterfinals in Madrid. The Belarusian player lost to American player Hailey Baptiste, who is ranked 30th in the world.

The Port of Barcelona launched its Fifth Strategic Plan covering the period from 2026 to 2030. The plan marks the beginning of a new long-term operational phase for the maritime hub.

Police arrived at Raquel's home with a detention order. She is accused of several crimes ranging from minor abuse to fraud. The source did not specify Raquel's surname or the exact location of the arrest.

Mayors are participating in the Bloomberg City Lab Summit in Madrid, Spain, to exchange ideas on urban development. Discussions focus on tackling issues such as affordability and the integration of artificial intelligence into city needs.

Cyclist Mikel Landa will not participate in the Giro d'Italia following a pelvic fracture sustained during the Itzulia Basque Country race. The injury was revealed following his crash during the event.