Madrid Review – July 2, 2026
2 de July de 2026
*Photos: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
Aragonese novillero El Mene was the only bullfighter to achieve a trophy during the demanding opening night of the Cénate Las Ventas series, despite the disappointing performance of the Los Chospes young bulls.
The opening night novillada of the Cénate Las Ventas series produced just one trophy, with El Mene emerging as the evening’s sole winner. The young matador earned an ear after making the most of the limited opportunities offered by the challenging Los Chospes young bulls, thanks to a determined and committed performance.
More than 10,000 spectators filled the stands, once again confirming the popularity of the summer night series at Madrid’s famous bullring. However, the overall quality of the livestock had a major impact on the event, as most of the young bulls offered very little scope for success.
El Mene found his best chance with the fifth bull of the evening. As his faena gathered momentum, the Aragonese novillero won over the crowd through persistence and his ability to draw every possible quality from his opponent. His finest work came with the left hand, producing several elegant natural passes that earned warm applause from the spectators. A decisive sword thrust sealed the performance and, following a strong public petition, the president awarded him an ear. His first bull had offered almost no opportunities.
Álvaro de Chinchón showed commitment throughout the evening but never found a young bull capable of allowing him to display his full potential. Neither of his opponents provided the necessary conditions for a memorable performance, despite the novillero’s willingness and determination.
The evening also marked the Las Ventas debut of Félix San Román, an important milestone in his career. Unfortunately, he received the least cooperative pair of young bulls, and despite his efforts, he was unable to make a significant impression due to the lack of quality shown by his opponents.
The disappointing display from the Los Chospes entry severely limited the prospects for all three novilleros. Nevertheless, El Mene seized the night’s clearest opportunity, securing the only trophy of the evening and establishing himself as one of the leading names of this year’s Cénate Las Ventas night series.
First novillada with picadors of the Cénate Las Ventas night series. Thursday, 25 June 2026. Attendance: 10,147 spectators.
Young bulls from Los Chospes, offering little quality and few opportunities for success.
Silence; Silence.
Standing ovation after his first bull; One ear after a warning.
(Las Ventas debut): Silence after two warnings; Silence after one warning.
Photos: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
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