Madrid review – 2 May 2026
5 de May de 2026
*Imágenes: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
The closing novillada at Las Ventas featured two laps of honour and encouraging performances with an interesting lot from Couto de Fornilhos.
Las Ventas brought the Community of Madrid Fair to a close with a novillada that offered both substance and promising names for the future. The Portuguese outfit Couto de Fornilhos sent a well-presented and varied group, capable of producing moments of genuine interest despite a modest attendance.
Cristian González emerged as the standout performer of the afternoon. In his first, a demanding young bull, he showed composure and authority, building a performance that grew in depth and earned recognition from the stands, resulting in a lap of honour after a strong petition. With the fifth, more complex and testing, he again demonstrated determination and resourcefulness, crafting a committed display that was acknowledged with an ovation. His performance in Madrid reflected the maturity of a bullfighter able to rise above adversity.
Juan Alberto Torrijos also left a positive impression. Facing the third, a mobile and expressive bull, he managed to connect with the crowd in phases, although the performance lacked full control and structure. Nevertheless, he was granted a lap of honour after a petition. With the sixth, he remained willing, but his effort did not fully engage the audience.
Mario Arruza experienced a quieter afternoon, unable to find clear opportunities with his lot. His first, though mobile, lacked quality, and he could not fully settle into the performance. The fourth, more subdued and reluctant, offered little chance to shine, leaving him without response from the crowd.
Overall, the novillada displayed a range of behaviours, with several bulls offering potential if approached correctly. The third and fifth stood out for their transmission, while others lacked consistency or depth.
A notable contribution also came from the cuadrillas, particularly in the sixth, where Sergio Pérez and Sergio Cebadera were warmly applauded following an accomplished banderillas display.
An afternoon without major trophies, yet rich in positive impressions and with several names showing signs of progression within the ranks
Date: Sunday, 3 May 2026 Event: Novillada with picadors – third fixture of the Community of Madrid Fair Attendance: 5,623 spectators
Six young bulls from Couto de Fornilhos, well presented and serious in appearance. Overall, they offered mobility and possibilities, although with varied behaviour that required skill and adaptability from the novilleros.
(navy blue and gold): Silence after a warning and silence.
(navy blue and gold): Lap of honour after a warning and ovation.
(bougainvillea and gold): Lap of honour after a petition and ovation.
Photos: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
