Unai Esain launches Zubiri festival with chupinazo

Seventeen‑year‑old frontball player Unai Esain Errea from Zubiri, Navarre, was the centre of attention on Friday, 31 July, when he launched the town’s five‑day festivities with the traditional chupinazo. The council honoured him for his recent sporting achievements, notably representing Spain at the 2025 Frontball World Championship in Mexico (U‑23) and being in the pre‑selection pool for the upcoming World Championship in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Council president Begoña Cantero highlighted Esain’s talent and thanked local institutions for supporting the sport, including the renovation of a training area at the old frontón. The celebrations, funded with €28,000, feature a paella night, popular meals, futsal finals, mariachis and other cultural events for the village of about 500 residents.