Madrid Review – 14 May 2026

The San Isidro Fair experienced one of its most difficult afternoons at Las Ventas. With the stands once again completely full and the “Sold Out” signs displayed for the fourth consecutive day, the Vellosino bulls offered very few opportunities for success to a trio of matadors who had to rely on patience, technique and perseverance to get anything meaningful from a dull and short-lived corrida.

Amid a long and low-key afternoon, Daniel Luque was the matador who connected best with the Madrid crowd. The Seville-born bullfighter once again demonstrated his fighting skills, intelligence and experience, building faenas where there was very little material to work with.

His strongest performance came with the fifth bull of the afternoon. Luque managed to control the charges of an animal that quickly lost strength and succeeded in linking together several quality muletazos on both sides, all based on firmness and precise positioning. The closing stages, working very close to the bull, increased the intensity of the performance and divided opinion among the spectators. After an effective sword thrust, he received a warm ovation.

His effort with the second bull of his lot also carried merit. The bull lacked transmission and never fully committed to the charge. The matador from Gerena remained patient and determined, trying to extend a limited and short-lived embestida. A superb kill with the sword ended the faena and was recognised with applause from the crowd.

Sebastián Castella also found little cooperation from his bulls. The French matador showed willingness and commitment throughout the afternoon, although both of his opponents offered very limited chances for brilliance. The fourth bull proved especially difficult, fading quickly and forcing Castella to shorten his work after hearing two warnings.

David de Miranda was likewise unable to lift the afternoon. The Huelva-born matador faced a pair of bulls lacking emotion and commitment. Although he remained composed and showed good positioning in the ring, his efforts failed to make a significant impact on the Madrid crowd.

Overall, the Vellosino corrida showed some nobility but lacked strength, transmission and stamina. The bulls faded too quickly and left both matadors and spectators with the feeling of a long and uphill afternoon.