Fall for Madrid: why Spain’s capital is city-break gold

Yamal's injury has ruled him out of Spain's upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria, and there's a possibility he could also miss the highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid. This is significant as Yamal has been a key player for the national team, and his absence could impact Spain's performance in these crucial matches.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has announced plans to enshrine abortion rights in the constitution, aiming to protect women from misleading information about the procedure. This move is significant as it reflects a commitment to women's rights and reproductive health, ensuring that future generations have access to safe and legal abortion services. By taking this step, Spain positions itself as a leader in the fight for reproductive rights within the EU.

A recent report reveals that the massive power outage affecting Spain and Portugal earlier this year is the first documented blackout caused by excessive voltage. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in the electrical systems of these countries and raises concerns about infrastructure resilience. Understanding the causes of such outages is crucial for preventing future occurrences and ensuring reliable power supply.

A recent report highlights that the massive blackout affecting Spain and Portugal is the first of its kind, attributed to overvoltage. This unprecedented event raises concerns about the stability of the electrical grid in the Iberian peninsula and emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and monitoring to prevent future occurrences.

Faustino Oro, an 11-year-old chess prodigy from Argentina, has made headlines by achieving a grandmaster norm and a remarkable 2509 rating at the Legends and Prodigies tournament in Madrid. His unbeaten score of 7.5 out of 9 not only showcases his exceptional talent but also positions him to potentially become the youngest grandmaster in history. This achievement is significant as it highlights the rising stars in the chess world and inspires young players everywhere.

Storm Amy has been upgraded to an amber warning as it approaches, with forecasts predicting winds gusting over 95mph in exposed areas. This severe weather poses risks to safety and infrastructure, making it crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared.

Refugees seeking settlement rights in the UK are facing new, more challenging conditions that will be detailed later this autumn. This change is significant as it could prolong the already difficult journey for many individuals seeking safety and stability in the UK, raising concerns about their future and the overall humanitarian response.

Judit Julia, a woman who moved from Spain to Canada, shares her troubling experience with Nova Scotia's health-care system, particularly in the realm of fertility care. She describes it as one of the worst systems she has encountered, highlighting significant gaps that leave many individuals without the support they need. This situation is concerning as it raises questions about the accessibility and quality of health services in the region, affecting not just Julia but potentially many others facing similar challenges.

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

Severe 85mph winds have left hundreds without power in Wales, causing significant disruptions. A ferry attempting to reach Holyhead was forced to circle offshore for hours, unable to dock. This situation highlights the impact of extreme weather on transportation and local infrastructure, raising concerns about safety and emergency preparedness.

The recent failure of the government funding vote in the US Senate has dashed hopes for a swift resolution to the ongoing government shutdown. With Democrats standing firm in their position, President Donald Trump is preparing to implement layoffs and budget cuts across federal agencies. This situation is critical as it not only affects government operations but also impacts countless employees and services that rely on federal funding.

The Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand is set to take place in Perth, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45 PM local time. Fans can expect a challenging game due to damp conditions, as rain has been intermittent throughout the day, making the field slick. This match is significant as it continues the long-standing rivalry between the Wallabies and the All Blacks, drawing attention from rugby enthusiasts and impacting the Rugby Championship standings.

Tensions continue to escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict as airstrikes are reported in Gaza, despite former President Donald Trump's call for an immediate halt to the bombings. Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that the country is ready to implement the first stage of Trump's Gaza plan, which aims to address the ongoing crisis. This situation is critical as it not only affects the lives of those in Gaza but also has broader implications for regional stability and international relations.

Australia's second match in the Women's Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka faced interruptions due to lightning in Colombo. Groundstaff had just begun to remove the covers when the weather turned, highlighting the challenges of playing in unpredictable conditions. The match requires at least 20 overs per side to be counted, and an extra hour is allocated for delays. This situation underscores the importance of weather management in sports, especially in tournaments where every match counts.

As the Premier League season heats up, David Moyes has expressed that a top 10 finish would be a satisfactory outcome for Everton. Meanwhile, Bournemouth's recent performance has propelled them to second place in the league, showcasing the competitive nature of this season. This news is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in the league and the varying aspirations of different clubs, making every matchday crucial for teams aiming for better standings.