Madrid: A Thrilling Start

The 2025 bullfighting season at Las Ventas begins with no preamble – it dives straight into the action. On 23 March, Madrid’s iconic bullring opens its doors for the year with no novilladas or warm-up corridas. Instead, it kicks off with a legendary Adolfo Martín bullfight. Nautalia, the company managing the events at Las Ventas, has chosen a distinctly “torista” theme for the early season, setting the tone until San Isidro begins in May.

This Palm Sunday, the event will feature a bullfight by Adolfo Martín, a ranch known for its connection to the Albaserrada bloodline, shared with the famous Victorino bulls. Adolfo Martín Escudero, now at the helm of the ranch, has maintained its reputation and quality, with bulls raised in Escurial, Cáceres.

The six bulls selected for this Sunday’s event are mature, serious animals that perfectly embody the characteristics of this lineage. They promise to delight the most discerning aficionados, many of whom will eagerly view them during the morning inspection before the event.

The trio tasked with making the first paseíllo of 2025 in Las Ventas is as intriguing as the bulls themselves. Rafael de Julia, Damián Castaño, and Adrián de Torres are the matadors chosen to grace the ring for the first time this season, each earning their place after impressive performances in Madrid last year.