2026-02-18 · Basques Around the World

Michel Portal, a renowned clarinetist of Basque origin, has died at the age of 90. Born in Bayonne, he was a key figure in contemporary jazz and a versatile composer, winner of numerous awards, including three César Awards for Best Film Music. His legacy includes the fusion of styles and cultures in his music, and he was a pioneer of free jazz.

Irizar has delivered ten electric buses to the city of Kaunas, making it the second city in Lithuania to have these vehicles. The ie bus Efficient model, presented at Busworld Europe 2025, offers a range of up to 350 kilometers.

Danobatgroup will participate in the International Machine Tool Biennial (BIEMH) in Bilbao, where it will exhibit innovations such as its new CGX cylindrical grinding machine and the FLP 80 milling machine.

The Clínica Universidad de Navarra has treated more than 270 patients from Ecuador with complex oncological pathologies since 2014, facilitating the training of Ecuadorian doctors.

Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have participated in a study on ancient agricultural plants, revealing new findings about the ancestors of crops such as wheat and barley.

A study by the University of Glasgow and the University of the Basque Country has documented the presence of microplastics in dipper nests in Scotland and the Basque Country.

The Basque Coast Hospital Center (CHCB) in Bayonne, France, has launched a "citizen loans" initiative to finance its urgent needs. The hospital seeks to raise 1.5 million euros to purchase medicines and medical devices through this financing model.

Padel has experienced remarkable growth in the French Basque Country (Iparralde), with the Tennis Club Luzien in Saint-Jean-de-Luz standing out as a pioneer in the sport, offering training and courts. Similarly, the Central Sport Club in Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle hosts national competitions and boasts multi-sport facilities.