César Jiménez, Much More Than a Comeback: “I'm Not Coming Back Just to Make an Appearance. I Want to Compete”

The return of César Jiménez in 2027 marks a new chapter in the career of the Madrid-born bullfighter, one of the most promising young talents in bullfighting at the beginning of the 21st century. After achieving four triumphal exits through the Puerta Grande in Madrid, twelve in Valencia, and spending several seasons among the leading figures in bullfighting, Jiménez retired from the ring in 2016. Now, following his appearances in Arenas de San Pedro in 2025 and Fuenlabrada in 2026, he has decided to return for a new season with the ambition of competing at the highest level.

César Jiménez is preparing his bullfighting comeback in 2027 with a clear objective: to regain his place through dedication, hard work, and preparation. The Spanish bullfighter discusses the reasons behind his decision, the important role played by Nacho de la Serna, and his ambition to return to major bullrings such as Madrid and Valencia.

César Jiménez Announces His Comeback with Enthusiasm and Ambition

The announcement of his return has generated numerous reactions among fans, friends, and professionals within the bullfighting world. César Jiménez himself admits that he initially had doubts about how the news would be received.

“I had my phone switched off for about two hours. I wasn't sure how this news would be received, but the truth is that most of the messages I've received have come from friends who are very excited,” explains the bullfighter.

Jiménez understands that his comeback may raise some doubts. Several years have passed since his retirement, and he knows that he will have to demonstrate in the ring that he still has what it takes to compete.

“A comeback like this isn't something you see very often in bullfighting. I had some very good moments in my career, but it's also true that when I retired, I wasn't at my best. I imagine many people have reacted with scepticism, but I hope to give those who aren't happy about my return reasons to change their minds,” he says with a cheerful and humorous tone.

The Pressure of Returning to the Bullring in 2027

The decision to return for a full season means once again facing the demands of a profession that César Jiménez left behind in 2016. Preparation, responsibility, and the pressure of every afternoon in the ring will become part of his daily life again.

Far from seeing that pressure as an obstacle, the Madrid-born bullfighter believes it is an essential part of competition.

“I don't think pressure is a bad thing. I believe it's necessary to have the desire to compete. This profession, at its deepest and most authentic level, involves a need to feel pressure. When you put on the suit of lights, you have to want to succeed and compete.”

His plans for 2027 go far beyond a symbolic return. He wants to compete from his very first appearance and prove that his comeback is supported by genuine bullfighting ambition.

“I'm coming back with the intention of competing. I'm not here to waste time or spend a season simply getting back into shape.”

Arenas de San Pedro and Fuenlabrada: The Performances That Inspired His Return

His appearances in Arenas de San Pedro in 2025 and Fuenlabrada in 2026 played an important role in his decision to return.

Both afternoons allowed César Jiménez to assess how he felt in front of the bull, evaluate his condition, and observe the public's reaction after so many years away from regular competition.

“The bullfights in Arenas de San Pedro and Fuenlabrada were a test. My objective was to see how I was doing, how I felt, and how the public might react. Those dates helped me make this decision and showed me that I can compete. If I had felt bad on either of those two days, I would probably have made a different decision.”

Those experiences ultimately convinced him that he could take on the challenge of returning to the bullring on a more regular basis.

Nacho de la Serna, a Key Figure in César Jiménez's Comeback

One particularly important name stands out in this new chapter: Nacho de la Serna.

His support and confidence have helped the Madrid-born bullfighter make the decision to return. Jiménez highlights the seriousness and enthusiasm that Nacho has brought to the project.

“He has played a fundamental role in convincing me to come back. He has shown me a level of seriousness and enthusiasm that makes me want to revive a beautiful story. We're going to try to rewrite a little of my history, and doing it alongside Nacho is incredible. I hope to give him reasons to fight for me.”

The objective is to revive a career that included important afternoons in some of Spain's leading bullrings and to embrace a new professional opportunity.

Madrid and Valencia: Two Bullrings César Jiménez Wants to Return To

Among the bullfighter's ambitions are two venues that hold special significance in his career: Las Ventas in Madrid and the Valencia bullring.

In Madrid, he achieved four triumphal exits through the Puerta Grande, while in Valencia he accomplished twelve. These achievements remain an important part of his history and explain what it would mean for him to perform in both arenas again.

Jiménez makes no secret of his desire to return, although he acknowledges that everything will depend on the opportunities that arise.

“If I have the opportunity to return to Madrid, I'll be delighted. If I have the opportunity to return to Valencia, I'll be equally delighted.”

“The ambition is definitely there. If I have the opportunity to go to Madrid, I'll be delighted; if I have the opportunity to go to Valencia, I'll be delighted too. I want everything to have a purpose. I don't want this comeback to happen without clear objectives.”

His intention is to build a season around commitments that reflect his professional ambitions.

Family Support and His Departure from Castilla-La Mancha Media

The decision to return to bullfighting also affects those closest to him. The support of his family has been decisive in helping him take this step.

Jiménez acknowledges that returning means making personal sacrifices and once again adopting a routine shaped by preparation and the demands of each appearance.

“It was essential that my family agreed with the decision. They see it positively and are supportive. They're the ones who will suffer the most because of what I'm about to experience. I'll have less time for them and, because of the pressure, my mood probably won't always be the best. But they understand that and they support me.”

His comeback also means saying goodbye to Castilla-La Mancha Media, where he developed a professional career that allowed him to remain connected to bullfighting through television and communication.

“It makes me sad. Leaving the team we built at the television station has been a difficult decision. But I'm sure someone equally capable, or even more capable, will take my place.”

César Jiménez Faces 2027 with the Goal of Competing Every Afternoon

The Madrid-born bullfighter knows that his comeback will require hard work and consistent preparation over the coming months.

He is not planning a season of gradual adjustment, nor does he intend to return simply to relive his greatest achievements. His objective is to recover the intensity of competition and meet the demands of every appearance.

“I'm coming back with the intention of competing every afternoon I put on the suit of lights. I'm not here to waste time or spend a season getting back into shape. I don't think I'll have many appearances, but I'm going to prepare myself for everything.”

That statement sums up the mentality with which he approaches his return. He does not mention a specific number of bullfights, but he makes it clear that he intends to be ready for whatever opportunities arise.

“I'm not coming back just to make an appearance and perform 15 beautiful passes. I want to achieve real authority and conviction in my bullfighting.”

A New Chapter in César Jiménez's Bullfighting Career

The winter will be a period of preparation for César Jiménez, who approaches the 2027 bullfighting season determined to regain his place in the ring.

The Madrid-born bullfighter understands the difficulties of the profession and knows that his previous achievements offer no guarantees for this new stage. That is why he insists on hard work and the importance of demonstrating his commitment in front of the bull.

“Right now, I'm starting from zero. I'm willing to make sacrifices every day and face this profession with complete honesty and dedication. When the time comes, we'll see whether I'm capable, but I'm not coming back just to make an appearance and perform 15 beautiful passes. I want to achieve real authority in my bullfighting and demonstrate my commitment to the profession. I sincerely hope I can do that,” concludes César Jiménez.

César Jiménez's comeback in 2027 represents a new opportunity for a bullfighter who enjoyed major successes in Madrid and Valencia and now wants to compete again with ambition and determination. The coming season will reveal how far this second chapter of his career can go.

At TaquillaOficial.com, you can explore our selection of bullfighting tickets for major fairs and bullrings across Spain and follow the most important events of the 2027 bullfighting season.

Fernando Cepeda, Borja Jiménez's New Manager

Fernando Cepeda is the new manager of Borja Jiménez. The agreement between the two was finalized on Monday, following a meeting held the previous Sunday. This marks the beginning of a new professional chapter for the bullfighter from Espartinas, one of the standout names of the 2026 bullfighting season.

The appointment of Fernando Cepeda as Borja Jiménez's new manager will be officially announced on Wednesday during a press conference at the Hotel Colón in Seville. The event will serve as the public presentation of their new professional partnership.

Fernando Cepeda Returns to Bullfighting Management

Fernando Cepeda returns to the world of bullfighting management after several years away from this professional role. His previous management experience was closely linked to Miguel Ángel Perera, whose career he guided for 12 seasons before their professional relationship came to an end in 2018.

Cepeda now takes on the responsibility of guiding Borja Jiménez through a new stage of his career. His return comes at an important moment for the Sevillian bullfighter, who has strengthened his presence in some of Spain's most prestigious bullrings.

Borja Jiménez Concludes an Outstanding 2026 Bullfighting Season

Borja Jiménez has been one of the leading figures of the 2026 bullfighting season, particularly thanks to his performances in major bullrings such as Seville and Madrid, where he once again demonstrated his ability, determination and distinctive style in the arena.

His season statistics reflect the level of activity he maintained throughout the year. These are the main figures from his 2026 campaign:

• 58 bullfights throughout the 2026 season.
• 87 ears and two tails awarded.
• Third place in the annual bullfighting rankings at the end of the season.

These results place the bullfighter from Espartinas among the leading names in the rankings and help explain the interest surrounding his new management partnership.

A New Chapter for Borja Jiménez and Fernando Cepeda

The partnership between Borja Jiménez and Fernando Cepeda opens a new professional chapter, with their official presentation in Seville as the next step.

Following a season marked by significant performances and results, Borja Jiménez approaches his upcoming commitments with a new manager overseeing his career. Wednesday's press conference will provide an opportunity to learn more about the details of their agreement.

At TaquillaOficial.com, we will continue following the latest news about Borja Jiménez and the major events on the Spanish bullfighting calendar. Explore our selection of bullfighting tickets and enjoy upcoming events at Spain's most renowned bullrings.

The Dignity of the Fighting Bull: The Respect That Bullfighting Demands

The dignity of the fighting bull should be one of the main concerns of every bullfighting enthusiast. Defending and protecting this animal means respecting it throughout its breeding and life in the countryside, but also from the moment it is loaded for transport to the bullring and during every stage of the bullfight.

Discussing the dignity of the fighting bull means examining certain practices that continue to concern aficionados: the integrity of the horns, the handling of the animals, the execution of the different stages of the bullfight and the conduct of those involved. Defending the bull requires consistency between what we say and what we allow to happen in the ring.

The Fighting Bull, the True Protagonist of Bullfighting

We often repeat that the bull is at the heart of bullfighting. However, our actions do not always reflect that belief. When a performance fails to achieve the expected success, when the animal presents difficulties or when a bullfighter is injured, it is all too easy to blame the bull.

We must remember that this is an animal guided by its own instincts and natural characteristics. Its behaviour during the fight cannot be judged as though it understood the bullfighter's intentions.

Gorings are part of the risks of the profession and can occur for different reasons, including mistakes or lapses in concentration during the execution of the different passes. That is why respect for the bull begins with recognising its natural behaviour and its ability to defend itself, rather than blaming it for everything that happens in the ring.

The fighting bull is not simply an instrument for the matador's success. It is the central figure that gives meaning to the bullfight, and its physical integrity must be preserved.

The Integrity of the Horns and the Fight Against Fraud

One of the issues that most concerns aficionados is the possible manipulation of the bull's horns. The bull must enter the ring with its natural defences intact, particularly its horns, which are its principal means of defence.

The practice known as horn shaving, or afeitado, involves altering the tips of the horns. It is a fraudulent practice that changes the animal's natural condition and may affect its ability to judge distances when charging.

Accepting such manipulation undermines one of the fundamental principles of bullfighting: the encounter between the bullfighter and an animal that retains its natural abilities.

Aficionados should never tolerate practices intended to artificially weaken the fighting bull's defences. Risk is part of the bullfighter's profession and must not be reduced through procedures that compromise the animal's integrity.

The Importance of Veterinary Inspections

Protecting the bull also requires proper supervision and veterinary controls.

Post-mortem examinations of the horns, meat and internal organs, where appropriate, can help investigate possible irregularities and provide objective evidence of fraudulent manipulation.

These inspections must be carried out rigorously and in accordance with the applicable regulations. Alleged offences must also be properly investigated, and the penalties established by law should be enforced whenever sufficient evidence exists.

The defence of bullfighting loses credibility when irregularities are publicly condemned but tolerated in practice.

The Final Sword Thrust and Respect for the Fighting Bull

The animal's dignity must be maintained until the very last moment of the bullfight. One of the aspects that deserves particular attention is the correct execution of the final sword thrust, known as the suerte suprema.

At times, poorly executed sword thrusts, low thrusts known as bajonazos, and other improper techniques can be observed. Such actions deserve careful scrutiny, both because of their consequences for the animal and because of what they represent within the traditions of bullfighting.

The final sword thrust must be performed according to the rules and technical requirements of the discipline, avoiding methods that unnecessarily prolong the bull's suffering.

Effectiveness cannot justify every method of using the sword. The outcome of a performance should never take precedence over respect for the animal or the correct execution of the different stages of the bullfight.

A bullring has its own rules and responsibilities. Those who defend bullfighting should be the first to demand that they are respected.

Practices During the Bullfight That Undermine the Bull's Dignity

Respect for the fighting bull cannot be limited to the integrity of its horns or the final sword thrust. Throughout the event, certain practices deserve critical examination.

Among the actions that cause concern among the most demanding aficionados are the following:

• The practice known as la ruleta, in which the bull is made to turn repeatedly with capes to encourage it to fall.
• Incorrect placement of the banderillas, particularly when they are placed outside the appropriate area.
• Performing passes over the bull's back, rather than maintaining the positioning and technique expected in proper bullfighting.
• Provoking the bull from inside the protective alleyway, which can distort the conditions of the fight.
• Causing unnecessary charges against the protective barriers, potentially resulting in avoidable injuries to the animal.

These actions must be assessed according to their circumstances and consequences, but one principle should remain clear: the bull deserves respect throughout the entire fight, even when its behaviour makes success more difficult for the matador.

Not everything that provokes applause from the crowd necessarily represents good bullfighting.

The Responsibility of Aficionados and Bullfighting Journalists

Defending the fighting bull also depends on the judgement of those watching from the stands and those reporting on what happens in the bullring.

It is understandable that occasional spectators may be unfamiliar with certain technical aspects of bullfighting. However, committed aficionados should be able to distinguish between a properly executed performance and one designed merely to produce an immediate reaction from the crowd.

Success should not be measured solely by the number of ears and tails awarded. The bullfighter's positioning, respect for the different areas of the ring, technical execution and treatment of the animal must also form part of the assessment of a bullfight.

Bullfighting journalists have an additional responsibility. Reporting with sound judgement means recognising genuine triumphs, but also explaining mistakes, identifying possible irregularities when supported by evidence and ensuring that enthusiasm does not obscure what actually happened in the ring.

Bullfighting criticism must remain independent and should never confuse the success of an afternoon with the absence of questionable practices.

Defending Bullfighting Also Means Demanding Higher Standards

Those of us who defend bullfighting must also be willing to recognise what needs to be corrected within it.

It is inconsistent to demand respect for the tradition while simultaneously justifying practices that harm the animal or undermine the rules of the bullfight.

These standards must apply to everyone involved: breeders, matadors, bullfighting teams, authorities, professionals and aficionados. Each has a different responsibility, but all contribute to preserving the conditions under which the spectacle should take place.

The dignity of the fighting bull cannot depend on whether it charges well, helps the matador achieve success or meets the expectations of the crowd. It must be respected under all circumstances.

The Dignity of the Fighting Bull: A Shared Responsibility

Defending the fighting bull means protecting its physical integrity, demanding compliance with the rules and recognising a bullfight conducted with technical precision and respect. Aficionados must uphold these principles from the moment the animal leaves the countryside until its final moments in the ring.

At Taquillaoficial.com, we closely follow the latest bullfighting news and offer a wide selection of bullfighting tickets for corridas and other taurine events at bullrings across Spain, for those who wish to experience bullfighting from the stands and witness first-hand what happens during each event.

Banderillero Jesús Díez "Fini" Says Goodbye to the Bullring: "My Knee Has Had Enough"

Banderillero Jesús Díez "Fini" has announced his retirement from bullfighting after suffering a knee injury on September 20 at the bullring in Lorca. The painful decision brings his professional career in the traditional suit of lights to an end, after medical examinations and attempts at recovery failed to make his return to the bullring possible.

Jesús Díez "Fini"'s retirement comes with an emotional statement in which the banderillero explains the reasons behind his decision, reflects on his career alongside leading bullfighters, and thanks those who have supported him throughout his years in the profession.

Jesús Díez "Fini" Announces His Retirement: "My Knee Has Had Enough"

The bullfighting world has received the news of Jesús Díez "Fini"'s retirement, as the banderillero has been forced to leave the bullring due to the consequences of an injury sustained during a bullfighting event in Lorca.

The incident, which occurred on September 20, brought his season to an end and has now also marked the conclusion of his professional career.

In his statement, "Fini" acknowledges that his physical condition no longer allows him to meet the demands of bullfighting without putting his safety at unacceptable risk.

"It prevents me from carrying out my profession without taking an unacceptable risk to myself and my physical well-being. After days of struggle, medical tests, and the hope of a recovery that ultimately could not happen, my knee has had enough."

His words reflect the difficulty of making a decision that, as he explains, comes after trying to recover and continue his professional career.

Lorca: The Afternoon That Changed His Professional Career

The bullring in Lorca will forever be associated with the final chapter of Jesús Díez "Fini"'s career.

What began as another afternoon of bullfighting ultimately became the moment that would mark his farewell to the bullring.

The banderillero himself recalls that day with particular emotion:

"That afternoon in Lorca marked the end of my season and, unfortunately, also the end of the journey I had dreamed of following while wearing the suit of lights."

"Fini" explains that the physical demands of the profession have led him to make a decision based on responsibility towards his colleagues and himself.

"The bull and the demands of this profession do not allow for half measures, and out of honesty towards my colleagues, the fans, and myself, the time has come to say goodbye."

A Career Alongside Miguel Ángel Perera, Alejandro Talavante, Ginés Marín and José Garrido

Throughout his career, Jesús Díez "Fini" has been part of the teams of several leading bullfighters, performing in some of the most prominent bullrings on the bullfighting circuit.

In his farewell statement, he particularly remembers the matadors who placed their trust in him and allowed him to develop his career as a banderillero.

Among them, he mentions Miguel Ángel Perera, Alejandro Talavante, Ginés Marín and José Garrido, bullfighters with whom he shared important moments both inside and outside the bullring.

"I have had the privilege of performing in the finest bullrings and working alongside great figures of bullfighting. My heartfelt thanks go to all the matadors with whom I have shared wonderful moments in bullfighting: Miguel Ángel Perera, Alejandro Talavante, Ginés Marín, José Garrido..."

The banderillero also expresses his gratitude to those who accompanied him throughout these years:

"Accompanying you throughout these years has been an honour and a privilege. Thank you for your trust, dedication, and the wonderful moments we have shared both inside and outside the bullring."

"Fini" Thanks His Fellow Banderilleros and Bullfighting Teams

Beyond the leading matadors with whom he has worked, Jesús Díez also remembers the professionals who form part of the daily life of a bullfighting team.

The journeys, long hours on the road, tense moments in the bullring's passageways, and the joy of celebrating successful afternoons together all hold a special place in his farewell.

"My most sincere gratitude also goes to all the fellow banderilleros and members of the bullfighting teams with whom I have shared the passageways, protective barriers, and long hours on the road."

He adds:

"Feeling your support during difficult moments and celebrating triumphs by your side has made this beautiful chapter of my life unforgettable."

His words recognise the colleagues with whom he shared the sacrifices and rewards of a profession that demands preparation, commitment, and mutual trust.

"Goodbye to the Suit of Lights, but My Connection to Bullfighting Will Last Forever"

Although his retirement from the bullring is definitive, Jesús Díez "Fini" makes it clear that his connection to bullfighting will continue.

His statement concludes with words that reflect the feelings of a professional who must leave behind a career to which he has dedicated much of his life.

"The time has come to say goodbye to the suit of lights, but my connection to this world will remain forever. THANK YOU."

The retirement of Jesús Díez "Fini" marks the end of a career defined by his work as a banderillero and the years he shared with matadors and fellow members of their teams. His farewell comes for physical reasons and reflects his respect for the demands of the profession.

At Taquillaoficial.com, we wish him all the best in this new chapter and thank him for his dedication to the world of bullfighting. We continue to bring fans the latest bullfighting news and offer a wide selection of bullfighting tickets for major fairs and events throughout Spain.

<h1>Fran Vázquez to His Father Antonio: "I Wanted to Be Like You. You Leave a Huge Void in My Life"</h1>

<p><strong>Fran Vázquez has shared an emotional farewell letter to his father, Antonio Vázquez</strong>, who died at the age of 77 in the tragic railway accident in Urda. One week after his passing, his son published a heartfelt message on social media, filled with love, admiration, and memories of a lifetime.</p>

<p>In this farewell, <strong>Fran Vázquez remembers the personal and bullfighting legacy of Antonio Vázquez</strong>, the man he always wanted to resemble and with whom he shared his passion for bullfighting and the profession of managing bullfighters. The letter reflects the close relationship between father and son.</p>

<h2>Fran Vázquez Remembers His Father: "I Wanted to Be Like You"</h2>

<p><strong>Antonio Vázquez</strong> left a lasting impression on his family and on those who shared so many years with him in the bullfighting world. His son Fran, who followed in his footsteps as a bullfighting manager, has paid tribute to him through an open letter recalling the lessons he learned from childhood.</p>

<p>The words <strong>"I wanted to be like you, Dad"</strong> appear repeatedly throughout the letter. Fran speaks about loyalty, honesty, hard work, and respect for others, values he learned from his father and hopes to carry forward.</p>

<p>However, the letter goes far beyond their professional relationship. Fran recalls their daily conversations, their occasional disagreements and reconciliations, Antonio's love for his grandchildren, and the way his father approached life, making him his greatest role model.</p>

<h2>Fran Vázquez's Emotional Farewell Letter to Antonio Vázquez</h2>

<p>Given the deeply personal nature of the message, we reproduce Fran Vázquez's letter in full, translated into English while preserving the meaning and emotion of his original words.</p>

<blockquote>

<p><em>Dad:</em></p>

<p><em>From a very young age, I knew exactly what I wanted: I wanted to be like you...</em></p>

<p><em>Like you, because day after day you taught me (and showed me) what unconditional love for a son truly meant; like you, because every night, when I went to bed, you would sit beside me and say, "Son, I want you to know that there is nobody in this world who loves you more than I do"; like you, because you taught me that education does more than open doors: it also teaches us how to live; like you, because you showed me the wonderful values that exist in the world of bullfighting.</em></p>

<p><em>I wanted to be like you, Dad.</em></p>

<p><em>Like you, I wanted to become a bullfighting manager (and I even told Father Felipe that during my First Communion when he asked me).</em></p>

<p><em>I wanted to be like you, Dad. Like you, because you taught me through your example that LOYALTY should be a way of life; like you, because you instilled in me the belief that we must always look people in the eye and act honestly; like you, because for you hard work was always the only path; like you, because you taught me to look at and treat everyone equally, whether they were at the top or the bottom, without allowing anyone's position to change the respect they deserved; like you, because you taught me the importance of being a GRANDFATHER (in capital letters), which is not merely a family relationship but an extraordinary way of loving and caring; like you, because you taught me that a person's greatness does not need to raise its voice: it reveals itself quietly, through gestures and through the mark it leaves on others...</em></p>

<p><em>Like you, Dad; I wanted to be like you... for so many, so many reasons...</em></p>

<p><em>You leave such a huge void in my life, such a huge void.</em></p>

<p><em>We spoke many times every day (we argued sometimes too, and made up just as often). But throughout your 77 years, I was still learning from you every single day, every single moment.</em></p>

<p><em>Thank you for everything, absolutely everything.</em></p>

<p><em>I hope I can live up to your example.</em></p>

<p><em>I promise you that I will do everything I possibly can to make you very proud of me.</em></p>

<p><em>Mateo, Tristán, and I are going to miss you so much.</em></p>

<p><strong><em>WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH, DAD.</em></strong></p>

</blockquote>

<h2>Antonio Vázquez: A Life Devoted to Bullfighting and Family</h2>

<p><strong>Antonio Vázquez dedicated much of his life to the world of bullfighting</strong>, a passion he passed on to his son Fran. Both shared the profession of managing bullfighters, building a relationship that went far beyond their work and was marked by learning and mutual admiration.</p>

<p>In his farewell letter, Fran places particular emphasis on his father's human values. Loyalty, dedication, education, and the ability to treat everyone with equal respect are among the lessons that shaped his life.</p>

<p>He also remembers Antonio's role as a grandfather, highlighting the affection and devotion he showed towards his family.</p>

<h2>"I Hope I Can Live Up to Your Example": Fran's Commitment to His Father's Legacy</h2>

<p>One of the most personal moments in the letter comes when <strong>Fran Vázquez promises to work hard so that his father would continue to be proud of him</strong>.</p>

<p>"I hope I can live up to your example," he writes before closing his farewell with words expressed on behalf of Mateo and Tristán as well.</p>

<p>The death of Antonio Vázquez leaves a profound void in his family and within the bullfighting community. Through this letter, his son has found a way to express the pain of his loss while thanking him for everything he learned by his side.</p>

<p>At <strong>Taquillaoficial.com</strong>, we extend our deepest respect and sympathy to the Vázquez family during this difficult time. We continue to cover the latest news from the bullfighting world and offer fans a wide selection of <strong>bullfighting tickets</strong> for major fairs and events throughout Spain.</p>

</article>

Morante de la Puebla 2027: What Will His Next Bullfighting Season Look Like?

Morante de la Puebla 2027 is one of the biggest uncertainties surrounding the upcoming bullfighting season. After a year in which he took part in more than fifty bullfights, the Sevillian matador is once again at the centre of attention. His future, the number of appearances he might make and the bullrings he could choose are keeping fans eagerly awaiting news.

The future of Morante de la Puebla in 2027 raises several questions. Will he return to the bullring with a reduced schedule? Will Seville be his starting point? Will he become more selective about his commitments? We examine the circumstances that could influence his decisions and the possibilities for the coming season.

Morante Ends a Season of More Than Fifty Bullfights

That Saturday, October 17, already seems a distant memory, although only a few weeks have passed. It was the day that marked the end of the season for Morante de la Puebla, who, contrary to what he himself had expected back in January, eventually exceeded fifty appearances.

It was an intense campaign, perhaps too long for a bullfighter who, at certain moments, seemed to follow his heart rather than his head when accepting engagements.

"There are always plenty of reasons to return to bullfighting," the matador explained before the season began.

In an interview with the Spanish newspaper ABC, before appearing on Easter Sunday in Seville, he acknowledged the responsibility resting on his shoulders:

"It may sound bad coming from me, but I'm returning because I'm needed. We'll get through this year as best we can and try to make it to the end."

Those words reflected Morante's commitment to bullfighting, but they also hinted at the difficulties of facing such a demanding season.

A Comeback That Began Cautiously in Seville

Months earlier, when his appearance at the Real Maestranza bullring in Seville was announced, Morante had expressed a much more cautious attitude.

Speaking to Canal Sur, the bullfighter from La Puebla del Río explained that his comeback did not yet have a defined schedule:

"I don't know how long I'll continue, how many bullrings I'll appear in or how many bullfights I'll take part in. For now, we've set our hopes on Seville, and hopefully other opportunities will gradually arise."

He added a reflection that, in hindsight, seems particularly significant:

"It's still early. We have to wait. I need to test myself and see how I feel."

However, once his commitment in Seville was completed, new bookings began to follow. What initially appeared to be a carefully planned return eventually became a season of considerable activity.

The accumulated physical and emotional demands began to take their toll, particularly during some of his appearances in August.

Morante had returned with the excitement of reconnecting with the public, but the schedule ultimately demanded more from him than he had probably anticipated.

Morante's Exhaustion and the Challenges of Such a Long Season

Inside the bullring, Morante de la Puebla remains one of bullfighting's great artists. His personality, classical style and ability to interpret a faena make him a truly distinctive matador.

Outside the arena, however, his decisions do not always follow a predictable path.

Morante is a complex bullfighter, sometimes impulsive and deeply committed to his profession. That approach to bullfighting has led him to accept engagements that, as the months pass, can become increasingly demanding.

Throughout the past season, he produced performances of extraordinary quality, but there were also afternoons when he appeared tired and troubled.

And that raises a question worth considering: does Morante really need to continue fighting so many bullfights?

Fans naturally want to see him. Promoters are equally eager to include him in their line-ups. But the bullfighter's long-term future should take priority over the desire to have him appear at every major fair.

Morante de la Puebla 2027: A Season with Fewer Bullfights?

Morante's plans for 2027 are likely to be among the most closely followed developments in the coming months.

Although the matador has expressed uncertainty about his future, his team continues to visit breeding farms to assess bulls, leaving open the possibility of another season in the ring.

For now, several important questions remain unanswered.

Will Morante return to Seville?

Will he significantly reduce the number of bullfights?

Will he choose only those bullrings that genuinely motivate him?

Will he once again allow the circumstances of the season to determine his schedule?

The answers depend on José Antonio Morante himself and the decisions he makes alongside his team.

A more cautious approach to the coming year would seem reasonable, particularly considering the demands of his recent seasons.

Seville Could Be Morante's Starting Point in 2027

Seville once again emerges as one of the main possibilities for Morante de la Puebla's return.

The Real Maestranza holds a special place in his career. It is a bullring closely connected to his artistic personality and a venue where he has delivered some of the most important performances of his professional life.

It would therefore come as no surprise if the matador once again used Seville as the starting point for organising his engagements.

From there, choosing his appearances more carefully could become the main priority.

One possible approach would be a schedule of between 20 and 25 bullfights, with the option of adding further appearances depending on how he feels as the season progresses.

This is not a figure confirmed by the bullfighter, but rather a possible approach that would allow him to face the year with greater flexibility.

Morante is in a privileged position to decide where he wants to perform, which dates to accept and which line-ups to join.

That freedom of choice could prove decisive in avoiding another season as demanding as the previous one.

Morante's Future: Between His Passion for Bullfighting and the Need to Pace Himself

"My dream, my passion and my life are bullfighting," Morante acknowledged in an interview with Jesús Bayort.

It is a statement that helps explain why imagining the matador permanently away from the bullring is so difficult.

His relationship with bullfighting goes far beyond contracts and seasons. Bullfighting is part of his way of life, even though that passion has sometimes led him through particularly difficult moments.

Added to this are the health problems that have accompanied him for years, making any decision about his professional future even more delicate.

Morante has not resolved the uncertainty surrounding 2027, but neither has he definitively closed the door on another season.

Fans hope to see him once again with cape and muleta in hand, enjoying that distinctive interpretation of bullfighting that has produced so many memorable moments.

Perhaps Morante's real challenge is not simply returning to the ring, but finding a schedule that allows him to maintain his enthusiasm without repeating the exhaustion of recent seasons.

His presence continues to mean a great deal to the world of bullfighting, but he does not need to appear at every major fair to prove it.

What Can We Expect from Morante de la Puebla in 2027?

The 2027 bullfighting season for Morante de la Puebla remains surrounded by uncertainty. Seville appears to be a possible starting point, while reducing the number of engagements represents a reasonable alternative for the coming year.

The final decision will rest with the matador himself. In the meantime, fans hope he will return to the bullring with the enthusiasm and conditions needed to continue enjoying his unique interpretation of the art of bullfighting.

At TaquillaOficial.com, you can explore our selection of bullfighting tickets for Spain's major bullfighting fairs and keep an eye on upcoming line-ups in which Morante de la Puebla may appear.

From Rafael de Paula to Pablo Aguado: Antonio Vázquez's Legacy in Bullfighting

The name of Antonio Vázquez and his legacy in bullfighting remains closely linked to some of the most prominent figures in the history of Spanish bullfighting. The respected bullfighting manager from Linares devoted much of his life to discovering, guiding and representing bullfighters from different generations, drawing on his extensive knowledge of fighting bulls and his deeply personal understanding of the profession.

From Rafael de Paula to Pablo Aguado, including Francisco Rivera, Miguel Bienvenida and Matías Tejela, his career reflects a lifetime dedicated to bullfighting. We look back at the names that shaped his work as a manager and the close relationship he maintained with his brother, Curro Vázquez.

Antonio Vázquez: A Life Dedicated to Bullfighting and Management

To speak of Antonio Vázquez is to remember a man of the countryside, a man of his word and someone with an extraordinary sensitivity to the art of bullfighting. His life was closely connected to that of his brother, Curro Vázquez, although his career as a bullfighting manager extended far beyond that family relationship.

His knowledge of fighting bulls, his intelligence in negotiations and his ability to understand each bullfighter's personality earned him considerable respect throughout the bullfighting world.

Antonio Vázquez viewed management as a relationship built on trust and commitment. He knew how to defend his bullfighters' interests and was equally capable of saying no when he believed it was the right decision for their careers.

Miguel Bienvenida and Francisco Rivera: The First Major Names

Among the first bullfighters to benefit from his guidance was Miguel Bienvenida, whom he managed during the 1984 and 1985 seasons.

He later became associated with Francisco Rivera, guiding him through two important seasons that helped establish his professional career.

Those years strengthened his reputation as a manager and demonstrated one of his greatest qualities: understanding the stage each bullfighter had reached and helping them make important professional decisions.

Rafael de Paula and Antonio Vázquez: A Partnership Built on Emotion

One of the most remarkable chapters of his career was his relationship with Rafael de Paula, the celebrated bullfighter from Jerez de la Frontera.

Between 1995 and 1998, Antonio Vázquez managed his career during a period marked by a profound connection with his distinctive interpretation of bullfighting.

His admiration went back many years. Antonio's father had been a devoted admirer of Rafael de Paula, a passion that Antonio inherited and which eventually developed into a professional relationship.

For Antonio Vázquez, Rafael de Paula's bullfighting represented an artistic expression capable of moving spectators beyond technical perfection. His personality, natural elegance and unmistakable way of performing each movement could bring the manager himself to tears.

It was a relationship that went far beyond professional negotiations and left a lasting impression on his life.

His Connection with the Madrid Bullfighting School

Alongside his time with Rafael de Paula, Antonio Vázquez also managed the career of Manolo Carrión during 1995 and 1996.

Over the following years, Madrid once again became an important part of his professional journey. His connection with young bullfighters trained at the Madrid Bullfighting School allowed him to guide new generations seeking to establish themselves in the bullring.

Among the bullfighters whose careers he managed were:

• Iván García: from 2000 to 2004.
• Matías Tejela: from 2003 to 2005.
• Andrés Palacios: during 2006.
• Armillita IV: from 2013 to 2015.
• Alberto Aguilar: from 2014 to 2018.

Each represented a different personality and approach to bullfighting. Antonio Vázquez understood how to adapt to those differences without compromising his principles.

His working methods were based on his knowledge of fighting bulls, his close relationships with the bullfighters and his determination when negotiating their professional commitments.

Pablo Aguado: The Bullfighter Who Shared His Artistic Vision

The relationship between Antonio Vázquez and Pablo Aguado, which began in 2016, holds particular significance in the final stage of his career.

In the bullfighter from Seville, he discovered an interpretation of bullfighting that closely reflected his own artistic values. Aguado's natural elegance, control and classical style connected with the sensitivity Antonio had admired throughout his life.

After so many years representing different figures, he once again experienced the deep emotions that bullfighting could inspire. Pablo Aguado's performances awakened feelings that reminded him of his admiration for Rafael de Paula.

It reflected a lifetime devoted to understanding bullfighting from within, through the countryside, the breeding farms and his close relationships with those who step into the ring.

Antonio Vázquez's Legacy in the History of Bullfighting

Antonio Vázquez belonged to a generation of bullfighting managers who understood their profession through discretion, loyalty and respect for the bullfighter.

His greatest achievements did not take place in the bullring itself, but behind the barriers, on fighting bull breeding farms and in the offices where the futures of the bullfighters who trusted him were decided.

From Rafael de Paula to Pablo Aguado, including important names from different generations, his professional journey represents a significant chapter in the recent history of Spanish bullfighting.

He was a man capable of being moved by a beautifully executed trincherazo, of defending his bullfighters and of maintaining his passion for bullfighting throughout his life.

Casa Chopera Officially Ends Its Operational Partnership with BMF and Grupo BAL After Ten Years

Casa Chopera has officially ended its involvement in the operational management of BMF, bringing to a close a ten-year business partnership with the Mexican conglomerate Grupo BAL, owned by the Baillères family. The decision was formally announced by Martínez Flamarique, S.L., a historic family-owned company closely linked to the organization of bullfighting events.

With this move, Casa Chopera separates from BMF and resumes its independent business operations, returning to the management model that has defined its long-standing presence in the bullfighting industry. The official statement confirms the conclusion of this chapter and expresses the Martínez Flamarique family's gratitude to its former partners.

Casa Chopera Ends Ten Years of Collaboration with Grupo BAL

Martínez Flamarique, S.L., historically known in the bullfighting world as Casa Chopera, has announced through an official statement sent to the media that its operational relationship with the Mexican conglomerate Grupo BAL has come to an end.

The partnership between the two companies began ten years ago under the leadership of Don Alberto Baillères and led to the creation of Toreo Arte y Cultura BMF S.L., the company through which both parties jointly conducted their business activities during this period.

However, this chapter has now come to an end. According to the statement, Martínez Flamarique will no longer participate in BMF's management, formally concluding its operational involvement with the Mexican business group.

Martínez Flamarique Returns to Independent Business Management

One of the most significant aspects of this decision is Casa Chopera's return to its traditional independent management model.

The family-owned company will once again conduct its business independently, returning to the approach that has characterized its historic involvement in the bullfighting industry.

In its official statement, Martínez Flamarique reaffirmed its intention to remain active in the bullfighting sector and continue contributing to its present and future.

The decision therefore marks the beginning of a new business chapter for Casa Chopera, although the statement does not specify which projects or bullrings the company will manage in the future.

Casa Chopera Expresses Gratitude to the Baillères Family

The separation has been announced in a spirit of gratitude and recognition toward the Baillères family.

Casa Chopera has emphasized the importance of the collaboration maintained over the past ten years and extended its best wishes to the Mexican group for its future projects.

In this regard, the official statement reads:

"We, the members of Casa Chopera, would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Baillères family for these years of collaboration and extend our best wishes for success in their future projects."

In this way, both parties bring to a close a period of joint business activity that began under the leadership of Alberto Baillères.

A New Chapter for a Historic Bullfighting Management Company

The separation from BMF opens a new chapter for Martínez Flamarique, a family with a long-standing history in bullfighting management.

The company has reaffirmed its commitment to remaining active in the sector and operating independently, following the business model that has historically defined Casa Chopera.

The official statement concludes by emphasizing the company's determination to continue contributing to the present and future of bullfighting.

The announcement makes two points clear: Casa Chopera will no longer participate in BMF's operational management, and Martínez Flamarique is returning to independent business operations. It remains to be seen how this new chapter will take shape through the company's future bullfighting projects.

At TaquillaOficial.com, we will continue following the latest developments in the bullfighting industry. Fans can explore our selection of bullfighting tickets for upcoming events and bullfighting festivals.

Fran and Curro Vázquez Still Await News of Antonio Following Train Accident

The disappearance of Antonio Vázquez following a train accident has caused deep concern throughout the bullfighting world. Fran Vázquez and his uncle, renowned matador Curro Vázquez, have issued a statement expressing the uncertainty their family is facing as they continue to receive no information about Antonio's whereabouts or condition.

The situation involving Antonio Vázquez, missing after the train accident, has left his family, friends and the bullfighting community deeply worried. The well-known bullfighting manager, professionally associated with matador Pablo Aguado, was travelling on the train involved in the accident and, according to information provided by his family, has yet to be located.

Fran and Curro Vázquez Issue a Statement About Antonio's Disappearance

The Vázquez family has publicly expressed its concern over the lack of confirmed information regarding Antonio.

In their statement, Fran and Curro Vázquez said:

"For the moment, we still have no news about his whereabouts or condition."

These words reflect the uncertainty facing a family that continues to wait for information that might clarify what has happened.

Antonio Vázquez, a Well-Known Figure in the Bullfighting World

Antonio Vázquez has a long-standing connection with the bullfighting industry. The brother of renowned matador Curro Vázquez and father of Fran Vázquez, he has developed his professional career in bullfighting management.

His professional relationship with Pablo Aguado keeps him closely involved in the major bullfighting fairs and events held throughout Spain.

News of his disappearance has caused concern among bullfighting fans and professionals alike.

The Family Continues to Await Official Information

One of the most difficult aspects of this situation is the absence of confirmed information regarding Antonio Vázquez's condition.

Fran and Curro Vázquez remain attentive to any official information that could help establish his whereabouts.

For now, it is important to remain cautious and avoid speculation about his situation until reliable confirmation becomes available.

The Bullfighting World Awaits News of Antonio Vázquez

Concern for Antonio Vázquez extends throughout the bullfighting community, where his family maintains close relationships with numerous professionals.

The uncertainty is particularly difficult for his relatives, who hope to learn what has happened as soon as possible.

At TaquillaOficial.com, we would like to express our support and solidarity with Fran Vázquez, Curro Vázquez and their entire family during these difficult moments.

We will continue to follow confirmed developments regarding Antonio Vázquez, hoping that his situation can soon be clarified.

Madrid ya tiene fecha para sus primeros festejos taurinos de 2027

Los festejos taurinos Madrid 2027 comienzan a tomar forma con las primeras fechas confirmadas del calendario. La localidad madrileña de San Sebastián de los Reyes será uno de los primeros escenarios de la nueva temporada, con la celebración de sus tradicionales encierros blancos los días 16 y 17 de enero, sábado y domingo, respectivamente.

La programación de estos primeros festejos taurinos Madrid 2027 incluirá también una cabestrada y una capea con motivo de la festividad de San Sebastián Mártir. Repasamos las fechas anunciadas y los detalles que todavía están pendientes de confirmación.

San Sebastián de los Reyes abrirá su calendario taurino en enero de 2027

La localidad de San Sebastián de los Reyes volverá a situarse entre los primeros municipios madrileños en celebrar festejos taurinos con la llegada del nuevo año.

Los conocidos encierros blancos de San Sebastián de los Reyes tendrán lugar durante el fin de semana del 16 y 17 de enero de 2027, dos jornadas que permitirán a los aficionados reencontrarse con una de las tradiciones taurinas más reconocidas del municipio.

Antes de los encierros, el viernes 15 de enero, se celebrará una cabestrada, que servirá como antesala de las actividades taurinas previstas para ese fin de semana.

Una capea el 20 de enero por San Sebastián Mártir

La programación taurina continuará el miércoles 20 de enero de 2027, coincidiendo con la festividad de San Sebastián Mártir, patrón de la localidad.

Ese día está prevista la celebración de una capea en la plaza de toros de San Sebastián de los Reyes, que completará las primeras citas taurinas anunciadas para el municipio.

La celebración de estos festejos en enero mantiene el vínculo de San Sebastián de los Reyes con sus tradiciones taurinas, que forman parte de la identidad y la vida festiva de la localidad.

Fechas confirmadas de los primeros festejos taurinos de 2027

Los aficionados que quieran seguir el comienzo de la temporada ya pueden señalar las primeras citas en el calendario. Por el momento, la programación anunciada es la siguiente:

Viernes 15 de enero de 2027: Cabestrada.

Sábado 16 de enero de 2027: Primer encierro blanco.

Domingo 17 de enero de 2027: Segundo encierro blanco.

Miércoles 20 de enero de 2027: Capea en la plaza de toros con motivo de San Sebastián Mártir.

A la espera de conocer las ganaderías y el programa completo

Aunque las fechas principales ya están confirmadas, todavía quedan detalles por conocer sobre la organización de estos festejos.

Entre ellos destaca la designación de las ganaderías participantes, así como el resto de las actividades que formarán parte del programa festivo.

Por tanto, habrá que esperar a los próximos anuncios para conocer todos los detalles de los encierros blancos y las celebraciones taurinas de enero.

La temporada taurina 2027 comienza a preparar su calendario

Con estas primeras fechas, San Sebastián de los Reyes da el primer paso hacia la temporada taurina 2027 en la Comunidad de Madrid. Los encierros blancos y la capea de San Sebastián Mártir serán algunas de las primeras citas para los aficionados madrileños.

Desde TaquillaOficial.com seguiremos atentos a las novedades del calendario taurino de 2027. Puedes consultar nuestra variedad de entradas de toros disponibles para las próximas ferias y festejos taurinos de España.

Alejandro Talavante, First Bullfighter Officially Signed for San Isidro 2027

Alejandro Talavante has become the first bullfighter officially signed for the San Isidro Fair 2027. Madrid's famous Las Ventas Bullring announced the agreement with the Extremaduran matador through its social media channels. Talavante will return to Madrid after being named the outstanding bullfighter of San Isidro 2026.

The confirmation of Alejandro Talavante for San Isidro 2027 marks the first step taken by Plaza 1 in preparing the line-ups for Madrid's next major bullfighting festival. We take a closer look at this first signing and its significance for the upcoming season.

Alejandro Talavante, First Confirmed Name for San Isidro 2027

Plaza 1, the company responsible for managing Las Ventas, has begun preparations for the next San Isidro Fair and has already secured its first official contract.

The first confirmed name is Alejandro Talavante, one of the leading performers of the previous edition, who will once again enter the arena at Las Ventas in 2027.

His confirmed participation marks the beginning of preparations for a festival that brings together leading matadors, prestigious fighting bull breeders and thousands of bullfighting enthusiasts in Madrid every season.

The Winner of San Isidro 2026 Returns to Las Ventas

The announcement comes after Talavante was named the outstanding bullfighter of the San Isidro Fair 2026, a recognition that has strengthened his position ahead of the upcoming Madrid bullfighting season.

The Extremaduran matador is therefore returning to Plaza 1's plans with an agreement already secured, while the company continues working on the remaining line-ups.

His participation will be one of the first confirmed attractions of San Isidro 2027, although the complete programme has yet to be announced.

Plaza 1 Begins Preparing the San Isidro 2027 Line-ups

With Talavante's signing, Plaza 1 has taken its first official step towards organising the San Isidro 2027 bullfighting programme.

The company continues preparing a festival that holds a prominent place in the Spanish bullfighting calendar and attracts considerable attention from fans every year.

For now, Alejandro Talavante is the first matador officially confirmed with a signed contract, as enthusiasts await further announcements that will reveal the complete line-ups for the next edition.

Tickets for the San Isidro Fair 2027

The confirmation of Alejandro Talavante has generated the first expectations surrounding the upcoming San Isidro Fair. His return to Las Ventas, following his recognition as the outstanding bullfighter of 2026, will be one of the highlights of the new Madrid season.

At Taquillaoficial.com, you can explore our selection of bullfighting tickets for the San Isidro Fair 2027, subject to availability, and stay informed about upcoming line-up announcements to plan your visit to the legendary Las Ventas Bullring in Madrid.

Bullfighting Season 2026 in Spain: Major Fairs, Triumphs and the Biggest Names of the Year

The bullfighting season 2026 in Spain has delivered afternoons of great anticipation, major triumphs, packed bullrings and numerous events that have shaped the national calendar. From the first major celebrations in Valencia and Seville to San Isidro in Madrid, the summer fairs and the closing events in October, fans have closely followed the performances of established figures and emerging matadors seeking their place in the leading line-ups.

In this review of the bullfighting season 2026 in Spain, we look back at the main fairs, leading personalities and some of the year's most significant events. This review covers the season up to October 26, with particular attention to Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Pamplona, Málaga, Bilbao, Albacete and Zaragoza.

Las Fallas in Valencia and the Start of the Major Bullfighting Fairs

The Fallas Bullfighting Fair in Valencia once again placed the bullring on Calle de Xàtiva among the first major venues of the season. March is an important month for assessing the form of established matadors and watching young bullfighters beginning to make their mark.

Valencia maintained its prominence throughout the year with other major events, including the July and October programmes. Names such as Roca Rey, Alejandro Talavante, José María Manzanares and Samuel Navalón featured in the Valencian calendar.

The season also began to take shape in Castellón and other bullrings which, during the spring, paved the way for the major annual fairs.

Seville 2026: Morante, the April Fair and the Puerta del Príncipe

The Real Maestranza bullring in Seville once again occupied a prominent place on the calendar. The April Fair brought together leading matadors and provided opportunities to assess the form of some of the most eagerly awaited figures.

Morante de la Puebla was one of the main protagonists of the Seville season. On April 5, he cut two ears at La Maestranza, and on June 4 he secured three trophies.

Pablo Aguado Triumphs Through the Puerta del Príncipe at San Miguel

The San Miguel Fair, held from September 24 to 27, produced one of the most significant stories of the Seville autumn season.

Pablo Aguado left through the Puerta del Príncipe on September 26 after cutting three ears, making his performance the standout event of the fair. Morante, Talavante, Roca Rey and Emilio de Justo were also announced, although the performance of some of the bulls limited the artistic results of the event.

San Isidro 2026: Madrid Reaffirms Its Importance in Bullfighting

The San Isidro Fair in Madrid was one of the major reference points of 2026. Las Ventas once again brought together leading matadors, specialists in the most demanding bullfights and young bullfighters seeking to establish themselves in the world's most prestigious bullring.

The figures from Las Ventas illustrate the scale of the entire Madrid season, beyond the San Isidro Fair itself.

• Spectators: 1,018,696.
• Bullfighting events held: 60.
• Sell-out crowds: 24.
• Puerta Grande exits: 11.

These figures correspond to the overall 2026 season at Las Ventas.

The Autumn Fair and October 12

Madrid concluded its season on October 12, Spain's National Day, following an Autumn Fair that reached 21,816 season-ticket holders, the maximum number available for sale.

The final event of the year at Las Ventas featured Morante de la Puebla among its protagonists. The Sevillian matador received an ovation and acknowledged the crowd after his first bull, while his second performance was met with silence.

San Fermín 2026: Pamplona and the Excitement of July

The Feria del Toro in Pamplona maintained its distinctive character, with the morning bull runs and afternoon bullfights representing two sides of the same celebration.

On July 9, Alejandro Talavante, Roca Rey and David de Miranda shared the bill, facing bulls from Victoriano del Río and Toros de Cortés.

Pamplona once again demonstrated its unique place in the summer bullfighting calendar, where the importance of the bull and the passionate response of the spectators shape each afternoon.

The Summer Bullfighting Season: Málaga, Huesca, Bilbao and the Major August Fairs

August brought together a substantial part of Spain's bullfighting activity. The fairs in Málaga, Huesca, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Gijón, Almería and Cuenca, alongside events in numerous towns, maintained a busy calendar throughout the summer.

Málaga and the 150th Anniversary of La Malagueta

The Málaga Fair held special significance as it marked the 150th anniversary of La Malagueta bullring.

Roca Rey, David de Miranda, Emilio de Justo, Fortes, Marco Pérez, El Fandi and Diego Ventura were among the notable names of the fair. The programme included traditional bullfights, novilladas and a special bullfight that brought the celebrations to a close on August 22.

Bilbao and the Corridas Generales

The Vista Alegre bullring once again became one of the important venues of August.

One of the most eagerly anticipated line-ups was scheduled for August 27, featuring Diego Urdiales, Alejandro Talavante and Roca Rey against bulls from Victoriano del Río. The programme brought together three different approaches to bullfighting and a breeding establishment regularly represented at Spain's major fairs.

Tarazona and an Afternoon to Remember

Among the notable events in smaller bullrings was Tarazona, where Juan Ortega, Roca Rey and Aarón Palacio enjoyed a triumphant afternoon before a sold-out crowd.

Roca Rey cut four ears and a tail; Juan Ortega collected three ears, while Aarón Palacio received the maximum trophies from his first bull. It was one of those afternoons that showed how important bullfighting stories can also emerge outside Spain's first-category bullrings.

September: Ronda, Albacete, Salamanca and Valladolid

September once again offered an intensive bullfighting calendar, with fairs taking place across much of Spain.

The Goyesca Bullfight in Ronda

The Corrida Goyesca in Ronda maintained its place among the most distinctive events of the year thanks to its tradition, historic atmosphere and the setting of the Real Maestranza bullring.

The line-up announced for September 5 featured Diego Ventura, Morante de la Puebla, José María Manzanares and Juan Ortega.

Albacete and Its September Bullfighting Fair

The Albacete Bullfighting Fair 2026 once again attracted considerable attention during September.

Established figures such as Roca Rey, Morante, Talavante and Borja Jiménez appeared alongside younger matadors such as Samuel Navalón. The fair therefore offered a platform both for established names and for those seeking to advance their careers.

Salamanca, Valladolid and Murcia

The September calendar also took leading matadors to other important bullrings.

Morante, Talavante and Manzanares shared the bill in Murcia on September 14, while Salamanca and Valladolid presented programmes featuring Roca Rey, Talavante and other prominent figures of the season.

Zaragoza and the Feria del Pilar: The Closing Major Fairs of 2026

The Feria del Pilar 2026 in Zaragoza, held at La Misericordia bullring, was one of the final major events on the Spanish bullfighting calendar.

The fair was dedicated to Dr Carlos Val-Carreres and featured leading figures such as Morante de la Puebla, Alejandro Talavante, José María Manzanares, Borja Jiménez, Emilio de Justo and Sebastián Castella.

El Mene Takes His Alternativa in Zaragoza

One of the most significant events took place on October 17, when Iker Fernández "El Mene" took his alternativa from Morante de la Puebla, with Diego Urdiales acting as witness.

The young Aragonese matador cut one ear from the bull used in the ceremony before a capacity crowd. The bulls, drawn from different breeding establishments, showed uneven behaviour, but El Mene delivered a performance that attracted the attention of bullfighting enthusiasts.

The Leading Matadors of the 2026 Bullfighting Season

The season has produced several outstanding names. Some have distinguished themselves through major triumphs, others through their regular appearances at the leading fairs, and others through the artistic development they have shown throughout the year.

Morante de la Puebla

One of the major figures of 2026. His season has been marked by widely discussed performances in Seville, Madrid, Valencia and Zaragoza, alongside an extensive presence at bullfighting fairs throughout Spain.

Andrés Roca Rey

The Peruvian matador has maintained a prominent presence in the line-ups of the major fairs, with appearances in Pamplona, Valencia, Málaga and Bilbao.

Alejandro Talavante

One of the most recognised successful matadors of the year. He was named the outstanding matador of San Isidro 2026 and left Las Ventas through the Puerta Grande on May 8.

Borja Jiménez

He has continued to strengthen his position in demanding line-ups. His season included a solo bullfight at Las Ventas and appearances at numerous fairs across Spain.

Pablo Aguado

The protagonist of one of the autumn's major triumphs, leaving through the Puerta del Príncipe in Seville during the San Miguel Fair.

Alongside them, Emilio de Justo, Juan Ortega, Diego Urdiales, David de Miranda, Sebastián Castella, Tomás Rufo and José María Manzanares also featured prominently in the season's leading events.

Young Matadors and Emerging Talents in 2026

The renewal of the bullfighting ranks has also played a part in the season. Names such as Samuel Navalón, Aarón Palacio, Marco Pérez, Julio Norte, Julio Méndez and El Mene have had opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.

Las Ventas provided a clear example of this development. During San Isidro, Álvaro Serrano, Julio Norte and Julio Méndez earned exits through the Puerta Grande, an important achievement in their respective careers.

The challenge for these young bullfighters will be to maintain consistency, secure appearances at new fairs and perform successfully before different audiences and against bulls from a variety of breeding establishments.

The Breeders and the Importance of the Fighting Bull

A season's achievements cannot be measured solely by the number of ears awarded. The behaviour of the bulls has once again determined the course of many afternoons, with some allowing matadors to triumph while others offered few opportunities.

During San Isidro, particular recognition went to "Ganador", from Núñez del Cuvillo, and "Cantaor", from Victoriano del Río, both honoured with a lap of the ring. The young bull "Babieco", from Conde de Mayalde, also received this distinction.

Breeding establishments such as Garcigrande, Victoriano del Río, Juan Pedro Domecq, Santiago Domecq, Jandilla, Alcurrucén and Victorino Martín were represented at various events throughout the season.

Overall Review of the Bullfighting Season 2026 in Spain

The year has produced a particularly significant figure in Madrid: Las Ventas exceeded one million spectators, recording 24 sell-out crowds during the season. San Isidro alone attracted 611,818 spectators across 28 events.

From an artistic perspective, the year has allowed fans to follow Morante's distinctive style, the consistency of established figures, the triumphs of Talavante and Aguado, and the arrival of new names at major bullrings.

The season has also demonstrated that each fair has its own identity. Seville retains its particular artistic sensitivity; Madrid maintains its demanding standards; Pamplona places special emphasis on the bull; and bullrings such as Bilbao, Málaga, Albacete and Zaragoza continue to occupy an important place on the calendar.

The 2026 Season Draws to a Close as Fans Look Ahead to 2027

The bullfighting season 2026 in Spain is approaching its conclusion after a year of triumphs, disappointments, alternativas and memorable performances. The overall picture offers plenty of reasons to continue following both established figures and the younger matadors seeking to consolidate their careers.

At Taquillaoficial.com, we follow the latest news from Spain's leading bullfighting fairs. Explore our selection of available bullfighting tickets in Spain and plan your next visit to the bullring.

Morante's Double Appearance and More Reasons to Visit La Misericordia for the Grand Finale of the 2026 Feria del Pilar

The 2026 Feria del Pilar in Zaragoza enters its final stretch this Thursday, October 15, with four consecutive days of bullfighting events bringing the festival to a close at La Misericordia Bullring. The main attraction will be Morante de la Puebla's double appearance at the 2026 Feria del Pilar, alongside several leading matadors and the alternativa of young Aragonese bullfighter Iker Fernández "El Mene".

Emilio de Justo, Borja Jiménez, Tomás Rufo, Sebastián Castella, Aarón Palacio and Diego Urdiales are among the other major names appearing in the festival's final events. Here is a look at the line-ups from October 15 to 18, the announced bull breeders and the highlights awaiting bullfighting fans in Zaragoza.

Thursday, October 15: Emilio de Justo, Borja Jiménez and Tomás Rufo Open the Final Stretch

The first event takes place on Thursday, October 15, featuring bulls from Montalvo for a line-up consisting of Emilio de Justo, Borja Jiménez and Tomás Rufo.

This bill brings together three matadors with the credentials to deliver one of the most significant afternoons of the Zaragoza festival. Emilio de Justo brings his experience, while Borja Jiménez and Tomás Rufo will be looking to make their mark in the La Misericordia arena.

It marks the beginning of four consecutive days of bullfighting that will keep fans engaged until the festival's final event.

Friday, October 16: Morante de la Puebla's First Appearance in Zaragoza

Friday, October 16, brings one of the festival's main attractions: the first of Morante de la Puebla's two appearances at Zaragoza's bullring.

The Sevillian matador will share the bill with Sebastián Castella and Aarón Palacio, the Aragonese bullfighter who will have another opportunity to perform in front of his home crowd.

The bulls for this corrida will come from Hermanos García Jiménez and Olga Jiménez Fernández.

Morante's presence adds particular interest to an afternoon combining experience, individual style and the appeal of seeing a local bullfighter perform before his own supporters.

Saturday, October 17: Morante Returns as El Mene Takes His Alternativa

Saturday, October 17, will be another major date in the 2026 Feria del Pilar. Morante de la Puebla will make his second consecutive appearance at La Misericordia, but the afternoon will also feature an especially significant occasion for Aragonese bullfighting.

Iker Fernández "El Mene" will take his alternativa in Zaragoza, officially becoming a full matador in front of his home crowd.

The young Aragonese bullfighter will share the bill with Morante de la Puebla and Diego Urdiales, facing bulls from six different breeding ranches:

• José Vázquez.
• Zalduendo.
• Victoriano del Río.
• Garcigrande.
• Alcurrucén.
• Carmen Lorenzo.

The combination of Morante's double appearance and El Mene's alternativa makes this one of the most anticipated events of the festival's final days.

For the young Aragonese bullfighter, it will be a particularly important afternoon in his career. Fans will also have the opportunity to witness an alternativa ceremony at one of Aragón's most representative bullfighting venues.

Sunday, October 18: Diego Ventura and the Rejoneadores Close the Feria del Pilar

The 2026 Feria del Pilar will conclude on Sunday, October 18, with a rejoneo event, bringing the festival to an end at La Misericordia.

The line-up features three horseback bullfighters:

• Rui Fernandes.
• Diego Ventura.
• Duarte Fernandes.

They will face bulls from Ángel Sánchez y Sánchez in an afternoon dedicated to horseback bullfighting.

Diego Ventura's participation will be one of the main attractions of this final event, which concludes four consecutive days of bullfighting in Zaragoza.

A Grand Finale Featuring Morante, Leading Matadors and a Highly Anticipated Alternativa

Zaragoza approaches the conclusion of its Feria del Pilar with three traditional bullfights and one rejoneo event, offering a varied programme for bullfighting enthusiasts.

Morante de la Puebla's appearances on October 16 and 17 will attract much of the attention, while El Mene's alternativa provides another compelling reason to visit La Misericordia.

The participation of Emilio de Justo, Borja Jiménez, Tomás Rufo, Sebastián Castella, Diego Urdiales and Diego Ventura completes a final programme featuring several prominent names in bullfighting.

Tickets for the 2026 Feria del Pilar in Zaragoza

La Misericordia Bullring is preparing to bring another edition of the Feria del Pilar to a close with four days of events featuring leading figures from the bullfighting world.

If you are planning to visit Zaragoza for the festival's grand finale, you can explore our selection of tickets for the 2026 Feria del Pilar bullfights at Taquillaoficial.com and choose from the available seats for the events that interest you most.

Madrid Once Again Hosts 10 Confirmations of Alternative During the 2026 Bullfighting Season

The confirmations of alternative in Madrid 2026 once again place Las Ventas Bullring at the heart of the bullfighting season. Madrid's iconic arena has played a leading role in a year marked by a new generation of matadors seeking to establish their careers before one of the most demanding bullfighting audiences in the world.

With 10 confirmations of alternative in Madrid 2026 as the reported figure, pending verification against the bullring's official season records, we look at the significance of this traditional ceremony, the bullfighters involved and the importance of appearing as a fully qualified matador at Las Ventas.

Las Ventas, the Stage for Confirmations of Alternative in Madrid 2026

Las Ventas Bullring remains one of the most important venues for bullfighters hoping to secure a place at Spain's leading bullfighting festivals.

Confirming the alternativa in Madrid represents an important milestone in a matador's career. Although a bullfighter may have already taken the alternativa at another bullring, their first appearance as a matador at Las Ventas requires a special ceremony in which another matador formally hands over the sword and muleta.

The demanding Madrid audience makes every confirmation a moment of considerable responsibility. Bullfighting enthusiasts pay close attention to timing, positioning, commitment and, above all, the matador's ability to express an individual style in front of the bull.

The Bullfighters Taking Centre Stage at Las Ventas

The 2026 bullfighting season has included confirmations of alternativa involving matadors with different backgrounds, careers and ambitions.

Among the announced names are Antonio Puerta, Mario Navas, Marco Pérez and Aarón Palacio, all associated with important appearances on Madrid's bullfighting calendar.

Antonio Puerta was scheduled to confirm his alternativa on August 15, the Feast of Our Lady of La Paloma, facing bulls from Araúz de Robles alongside Javier Cortés and José Garrido.

The 2026 Madrid Autumn Bullfighting Fair also gave particular prominence to confirmations of alternativa. The following appearances were included in the announced programme:

• Mario Navas: scheduled for October 2, facing bulls from Alcurrucén.
• Marco Pérez: scheduled for October 3, facing bulls from Victoriano del Río and Toros de Cortés.
• Aarón Palacio: scheduled for October 12, during the traditional Hispanic Day Bullfight.

These events reflect the importance Las Ventas places on emerging matadors within its annual bullfighting programme.

Aarón Palacio and His Confirmation on Hispanic Day

One of the notable events of the season was Aarón Palacio's confirmation of alternativa on October 12, 2026, coinciding with Spain's National Day, also known as Hispanic Day.

The bullfight brought together Morante de la Puebla, Héctor Gutiérrez and Aarón Palacio at Las Ventas, in an afternoon marked by considerable anticipation surrounding Morante's return to the Madrid bullring.

The young bullfighter from Aragon faced one of the most important afternoons of his career. He showed glimpses of personality and promising technique, although he was unable to complete a truly triumphant performance.

His confirmation represents another chapter in a career that he will continue to build through future appearances in the bullring.

Why Confirming the Alternativa in Madrid Matters

For a professional matador, confirming the alternativa at Las Ventas offers an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities before an especially knowledgeable audience.

It is more than simply completing a traditional bullfighting ceremony. The matador must face a demanding performance in an arena where every movement and decision receives close attention.

Several factors make this occasion particularly significant:

• The demanding Madrid audience: spectators value authenticity, technique and a matador's command of the bullring.
• The responsibility of performing at Las Ventas: one of the most respected venues in international bullfighting.
• The opportunity to gain recognition: particularly important for matadors who have not yet established themselves at major fairs.
• The impact of a successful performance: a strong appearance can influence future professional opportunities.

Every confirmation therefore carries a different meaning depending on the matador's career stage and the circumstances of the bullfight.

The 2026 Autumn Fair Takes Centre Stage at the End of the Season

The 2026 Madrid Autumn Bullfighting Fair played an important role during the final part of the bullfighting season.

The participation of established figures, emerging matadors and bullfighters confirming their alternativa brought different generations of bullfighting together at Las Ventas.

The conclusion of the fair, marked by the Hispanic Day Bullfight on October 12, once again placed Madrid at the centre of the bullfighting calendar.

Bullfighting Tickets in Madrid at TaquillaOficial.com

Confirmations of alternativa form part of the history and tradition of Las Ventas, offering bullfighting enthusiasts the opportunity to follow the development of a new generation of matadors.

At TaquillaOficial.com, you can explore our selection of bullfighting tickets in Madrid, check upcoming available events and choose your seats to experience an afternoon of bullfighting at Las Ventas.

Madrid, Zaragoza and Valencia, epicenters of bullfighting during the October 12 long weekend

The long weekend of October 12, 2026 places Madrid, Zaragoza and Valencia among the main venues for bullfighting today. Three places with their own personality and a program that arouses the interest of fans in one of the outstanding weekends of the final stretch of the season.

The events in Madrid, Zaragoza and Valencia during the long weekend on October 12 offer different attractions. The Las Ventas Autumn Fair, the Pilar Fair in Zaragoza and the Valencian bullfighting activity concentrate much of the attention. We review the main scenarios and what each of them represents.

Madrid: Sales and the expectation of Columbus Day

The Las Ventas bullring once again occupies a prominent place on the October 12 calendar. The Hispanic Heritage festival maintains a special connection with the Madrid bullring, where fans await one of the most important events of the fall.

Attention is focused on the poster announced for that day, within a cycle in which Madrid retains its importance as a reference place and a scene of maximum demand.

Zaragoza: the Pilar Fair, protagonist of the weekend

The Pilar Bullfighting Fair 2026 is held between October 10 and 18 and presents a program made up of six bullfights, a bullfight with picadors and a bullfight.

The presence of prominent figures in the ranks, including Morante de la Puebla, and the variety of livestock are some of the attractions of the Zaragoza cycle.

The La Misericordia bullring thus once again becomes one of the great meeting points for fans during the Pilar festivities.

Valencia: another scene of bullfighting interest

Valencia completes the role of the three cities during the October long weekend. The bullring on Xàtiva Street preserves an important bullfighting tradition and occupies a recognized place in the Spanish calendar.

The activity planned in Valencia expands the possibilities for fans who want to enjoy bullfighting during these dates, along with the fairs and celebrations in Madrid and Zaragoza.

A long weekend on October 12 marked by bullfighting fans

The October bullfighting calendar once again brings together different ways of understanding the festival. Madrid represents the demand of Las Ventas, Zaragoza experiences its Pilar celebrations and Valencia maintains its presence among the scenes of interest.

At TaquillaOficial.com you can check our variety of bullfighting tickets available for Madrid, Zaragoza, Valencia and other places on the calendar. Review the festivities and choose the date that interests you the most to enjoy the October 12 long weekend from the wire.
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Antonio Bienvenida: More Than Half a Century Without an Icon of Classic Bullfighting

Antonio Bienvenida: more than half a century without an icon of classic bullfighting. On October 7, 1975, Antonio Mejías Jiménez died in Madrid. He was one of the bullfighters who best represented naturalness, knowledge of the lidia and the classical style during much of the 20th century. Born in Caracas on June 25, 1922, he belonged to one of the great bullfighting dynasties.

Remembering Antonio Bienvenida, more than half a century after the loss of an icon of classic bullfighting, means looking back at a career closely linked to Madrid and, in particular, Las Ventas. From his early triumphs to his alternativa, retirement and the unexpected events of 1975, his story helps explain why his name still holds a special place in the memory of bullfighting fans.

Antonio Bienvenida, heir to a bullfighting dynasty

Antonio Bienvenida was born in Caracas on June 25, 1922, although his family soon moved to Seville and later settled permanently in Madrid. He was the son of matador Manuel Mejías Rapela, known as “El Papa Negro”, and grew up in a family where bullfighting was part of everyday life.

His connection with bullfighting began in childhood. At just five years old, he had already faced a young cow. That family background eventually developed into a career marked by his knowledge of the bull, his variety with both cape and muleta, and a distinctive personality in the ring.

Madrid, Antonio Bienvenida’s bullring

If there is one bullring closely associated with Bienvenida’s career, it is Las Ventas. Even before becoming a matador, he had already produced there one of the performances that would remain associated with his name for decades.

On September 18, 1941, while still a novillero, he gave a performance remembered for his famous changed passes with the folded muleta against Naranjito, a bull from Antonio Pérez. That move became one of the most recognisable features of his bullfighting.

Madrid was also the setting for his alternativa. On April 9, 1942, his brother Pepe Bienvenida handed him the sword and muleta before Cabileño, a bull from Miura, in an afternoon that further established the Bienvenida name at Las Ventas.

Classicism, naturalness and knowledge of the bull

To understand Antonio Bienvenida, it is necessary to look beyond trophies. His importance also lay in his way of understanding the profession and his ability to respond to very different types of bulls.

Naturalness, variety and knowledge of the lidia were central to a style that matured over more than three decades. Bienvenida handled the cape, banderillas and muleta with a concept in which technical command went hand in hand with personality.

The changed pass with the folded muleta became particularly associated with his name. He did not invent the move, but Bienvenida recovered it from his family’s bullfighting tradition and turned it into one of the characteristic images of his style.

A farewell that seemed definitive

Antonio Bienvenida’s relationship with the bullring went through several stages. In 1966, he retired after appearing as the sole matador at Las Ventas, although he would later return to bullfighting.

His definitive farewell in the suit of lights came on October 5, 1974, at Madrid’s old Vista Alegre bullring. That afternoon he shared the bill with Curro Romero and Rafael de Paula. He dedicated his final bull to his brother Ángel Luis.

He left professional bullfighting behind, but not his connection with the fighting bull. He continued attending tentaderos and taking part in activities linked to the bullfighting world.

The unexpected accident that ended his life

On October 4, 1975, almost exactly one year after his final corrida, Antonio Bienvenida was at the estate of Amelia Pérez Tabernero, in El Escorial, during a day in the countryside with members of his family.

A cow named Conocida, which had already been tested and had left the small bullring, unexpectedly returned and caught the matador from behind. The impact caused extremely serious spinal injuries.

Bienvenida was taken to La Paz Hospital in Madrid. He died on October 7, 1975, aged 53, three days after the accident.

His death caused profound shock throughout the bullfighting world. The arrival of his coffin at the family home brought together numerous fans and professionals in a farewell marked by silence, emotion and recognition for one of the great names of his era.

Antonio Bienvenida and a way of understanding bullfighting

The passage of time has not erased Antonio Bienvenida’s connection with Madrid. His name remains present at Las Ventas, where one of the bullring’s rooms bears his name and where his figure has been remembered in various tributes.

His legacy remains particularly associated with an idea of classic bullfighting, knowledge and naturalness. Remembering Bienvenida is not simply about looking back at a great figure from the past. It is also a way of understanding an era and a conception of the profession in which complete mastery of the lidia played a fundamental role.

More than half a century after his death, Antonio Bienvenida remains part of bullfighting history and memory. Madrid, Las Ventas and the history of tauromaquia itself still preserve the legacy of a matador whose personality extended well beyond his own era.

At TaquillaOficial.com, we continue to bring fans closer to the history and current events of the great bullrings and leading figures of tauromaquia. Discover our selection of bullfighting tickets and experience the next major events of the bullfighting calendar from the stands.

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History of the Oldest Bullring in Spain: La Ancianita in Béjar

The oldest bullring in Spain is located in Béjar, in the province of Salamanca. It is the El Castañar Bullring, popularly known as La Ancianita, a historic arena whose origins date back to the early 18th century and which still preserves much of the character of Spain's earliest permanent bullrings.

To understand the history of the oldest bullring in Spain, we need to look back even further than the construction of the current stone arena. Bullfighting events were already being held at El Castañar before the permanent building was erected. Its history helps explain how temporary bullfighting spaces gradually gave way to arenas specifically designed to host bullfights.

The Origins of the Béjar Bullring

The bullfighting history of this site is closely linked to the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Castañar, the patron saint of Béjar.

In 1667, a bullfight was held in a temporary arena enclosed with wooden barriers. The event was connected with raising funds for work carried out at the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Castañar.

Decades later, in the summer of 1707, another bullfighting event was held to celebrate the birth of the Prince of Asturias, who would later reign as Louis I of Spain. A temporary wooden bullring was once again built for the occasion.

These early events are important because they show that El Castañar was already being used for bullfighting celebrations before the permanent arena that survives today was constructed.

The Construction of La Ancianita

The decisive step came at the beginning of the 18th century. The temporary structure was eventually replaced by a permanent masonry bullring, built between 1711 and 1714.

Official documentation places the origins of the historic building we know today within this period. For this reason, the El Castañar Bullring is officially regarded as the oldest surviving bullring in Spain.

Its popular nickname could hardly be more appropriate: La Ancianita, which can be translated as “The Little Old Lady”.

More than three centuries later, the bullring still stands in El Castañar, very close to the sanctuary that is so closely connected with its origins.

What Is the Oldest Bullring in Spain Like?

One of the most interesting aspects of La Ancianita is that it offers a glimpse of a type of bullring very different from the large arenas built in later centuries.

The enclosure consists of a freestanding polygon surrounding a circular arena measuring 41 metres in diameter. It preserves its general perimeter and layout, together with the bull pens and other historic areas.

The original construction was built in masonry and was modified over time to adapt the bullring to the changing requirements of bullfighting events.

The main three-storey building belongs to a later period. It contains facilities associated with the operation of the bullring, as well as the presidential box.

A Bullring That Has Evolved Over Three Centuries

The fact that La Ancianita is the oldest bullring in Spain does not mean that it has remained unchanged since 1711. Like any building that has been in use for centuries, it has undergone different alterations and renovations.

What is particularly significant is that the bullring has preserved its location, perimeter and much of its historic configuration, making it possible to recognise the structure of the arena built at the beginning of the 18th century.

This continuity is one of the reasons why El Castañar holds such a distinctive place within Spain's bullfighting heritage.

La Ancianita, a Site of Cultural Interest

The importance of the bullring goes beyond its age.

In 1998, the El Castañar Bullring was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Site of Cultural Interest), in the Monument category. The official declaration highlights its construction between 1711 and 1714 and its status as the oldest existing bullring in Spain.

This protection recognises the historical and architectural importance of a building that reflects more than three centuries of development in Spanish bullring design.

El Castañar, a Setting Closely Linked to Its History

The location also helps explain the distinctive character of La Ancianita. The bullring stands in El Castañar, around two kilometres from the centre of Béjar and close to the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Castañar.

This location is no coincidence. The bullring and the sanctuary have been connected since the earliest documented bullfighting events and form part of the same historic setting.

A visit to the arena therefore offers an opportunity to discover a part of Béjar's history that extends beyond bullfighting itself.

Which Is Really the Oldest Bullring in Spain?

When discussing historic bullrings, it is important to be precise about what is being compared. Bullfighting events were held in many Spanish towns and cities long before the 18th century, often in main squares or temporary enclosures prepared specifically for the occasion.

In the case of Béjar, the distinction is more specific: this is a permanent bullring whose masonry construction began in 1711 and which still survives today.

The official recognition is clear. The decree declaring the El Castañar Bullring a Site of Cultural Interest identifies it as the oldest existing bullring in Spain.

More Than Three Centuries of Bullfighting History in Béjar

La Ancianita offers a remarkable insight into the development of Spanish bullrings. From the first bullfighting events held in temporary wooden enclosures to the construction of a permanent arena, its history reflects an important period in the development of spaces specifically designed for bullfighting.

Today, the oldest bullring in Spain still stands at El Castañar as a testament to more than three centuries of history. It is a unique place for understanding the origins of the bullrings that would later become part of the landscape of many Spanish cities and towns.

At TaquillaOficial.com, we have a wide selection of bullfighting tickets available for some of Spain's leading bullfighting fairs, arenas and events.

History of the Ronda Bullring: the Real Maestranza and the Goyesca

The Ronda Bullring is one of the most recognisable historic bullrings in Spain. Owned by the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, its construction during the 18th century and its distinctive architecture have made it an important landmark for understanding the evolution of bullfighting arenas.

The history of the Ronda Bullring is also closely linked to some of the most important names in Ronda's bullfighting tradition and, since the 20th century, to the Corrida Goyesca. We look back at its origins, its inauguration, the Romero and Ordóñez families and the elements that explain the unique character of this bullring.

The origins of the Ronda Bullring

To understand the origins of the bullring, we first have to look at the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, founded in 1573 by order of King Philip II. The institution was originally linked to equestrian training and the preparation of the nobility for the defence of the territory.

Over time, equestrian exercises and celebrations involving bulls became increasingly important. During the 18th century, plans were made to build a permanent venue where these events could be held in better conditions.

Construction of the present bullring began in 1779, under the direction of architect Martín de Aldehuela, a figure also associated with Ronda's famous Puente Nuevo.

1785: the inauguration of the Ronda Bullring

The Ronda Bullring was inaugurated in 1785. Two major names in bullfighting at the time were announced for the occasion: Pedro Romero and Pepe-Hillo.

This date places the Ronda arena among the oldest monumental bullrings in Spain. Its importance, however, is not based solely on its age. Its design represents an important stage in the development of bullrings specifically built to host bullfighting events.

From that moment onwards, the building became closely linked to the history and identity of Ronda.

Architecture that distinguishes the Ronda bullring

One of the first things that stands out when entering the bullring is the size of its arena. The ring has a diameter of 66 metres, a dimension that contributes to the distinctive character of the venue.

The bullring has two levels of seating and a gallery structure supported by stone columns. The arrangement of its arches creates a highly characteristic appearance that makes the interior immediately recognisable.

The stonework, the simplicity of its forms and the spacious arena provide a clear example of how major bullfighting venues were conceived during the 18th century.

Pedro Romero and the Ronda school of bullfighting

Any account of Ronda and bullfighting inevitably leads to Pedro Romero, who was born in the city in 1754. He belonged to a family closely associated with bullfighting and became one of the leading figures of 18th-century tauromachy.

The Romero family played an important role in the development of a style of bullfighting historically associated with Ronda.

Pedro Romero therefore remains closely connected to the bullring and the city's bullfighting heritage. His participation in the inauguration of 1785 further strengthened that relationship.

The Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda

The bullring belongs to the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, an institution that is fundamental to understanding both the origins and preservation of the building.

Its connection with horsemanship also explains the presence of a riding school within the Real Maestranza complex. Equestrian activity continues to form part of the institution's historic identity.

The bullring, therefore, cannot be understood solely as a bullfighting venue. It forms part of a historic complex where equestrian tradition, architecture and bullfighting come together.

The birth of the Corrida Goyesca

One of the events that would shape the modern history of the bullring came in 1954, with the first Corrida Goyesca de Ronda.

The initiative was linked to bullfighter Antonio Ordóñez and was created in the context of commemorating the bicentenary of Pedro Romero's birth.

The distinctive feature of the Goyesca is its atmosphere, inspired by the period of Francisco de Goya. Bullfighters, their teams and other participants wear clothing reminiscent of the styles depicted in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Over time, this celebration became one of the best-known events associated with the Ronda Bullring.

Antonio Ordóñez and Ronda

Antonio Ordóñez holds an important place in Ronda's bullfighting history. A member of another of the great bullfighting families associated with the city, his name became particularly linked to the consolidation of the Corrida Goyesca.

The Ordóñez family maintained a close relationship with Ronda and its bullring for decades. This family continuity added a new chapter to a tradition in which the Romero family had previously played a major role.

Ronda's bullfighting history can therefore be traced through different generations and periods, represented by family names that remain closely connected to the city.

Hemingway, Orson Welles and Ronda

Ronda also attracted the interest of international figures such as Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles, both bullfighting enthusiasts who were connected in different ways with the city and with Antonio Ordóñez.

Hemingway wrote about bullfighting and dedicated part of his work to the rivalry between Antonio Ordóñez and Luis Miguel Dominguín. His relationship with Ordóñez strengthened his connection with Ronda.

Orson Welles also maintained a close relationship with the bullfighting world and the Ordóñez family. His ashes were placed at Recreo de San Cayetano, the Ronda estate owned by the Ordóñez family.

These connections form part of the international recognition that Ronda and its bullfighting tradition achieved during the 20th century.

The museums of the Real Maestranza

A visit to the complex also provides an opportunity to discover different aspects of its history. The Real Maestranza preserves exhibition spaces related to bullfighting, horsemanship and the institution itself.

These collections help place the bullring within a broader historical context. A visit is not simply about seeing the arena and the stands, but also about understanding how horsemanship and bullfighting developed over the centuries.

For visitors interested in the history of the bullring, these exhibition areas complement what can be seen directly through its architecture.

A bullring closely linked to the identity of Ronda

The Bullring of the Real Maestranza forms part of Ronda's historic heritage, in a city also renowned for its landscape, the Tajo gorge and the Puente Nuevo.

Its importance lies in the combination of architecture, bullfighting history and equestrian tradition. From the Romero family to the Ordóñez family and the creation of the Corrida Goyesca, different chapters in the history of bullfighting have become closely associated with this venue.

Understanding the history of the Ronda Bullring helps explain why the Real Maestranza arena holds such a distinctive place in Spanish bullfighting. At TaquillaOficial.com, we have a variety of bullfighting tickets available to enjoy major bullfighting events and experience them from inside the arena.