Madrid Novilladas: The Young Talents Have a Lot to Say

Madrid and its bullring, Las Ventas, is a true examination for everyone: breeders, matadors… and novilleros. In 2026, the San Isidro Fair will showcase a generation with strong credentials and a solid foundation to become the leading figures of the coming years as full matadors. Here we introduce them to you. And later, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

They may not enjoy the spotlight of the headline acts, but alongside them — within the very same fair five novilladas with picadors are scheduled (two during the Community of Madrid Fair and three during San Isidro). In these contests, the matadors of the future will test their talent and determination.

There is no better stage than the world’s leading bullring to determine whether their ambitions are well founded. In a few years’ time, they may be the ones setting the tone of the major fairs and shaping the direction of the bullfighting season — or they may remain promising projects without the solid foundation required to progress to the top ranks.

Here at Servitoro, we present the achievements of each young bullfighter and explain how they arrive at this important appointment at Las Ventas — undoubtedly the most significant moment so far in what are still early but very promising careers.

These are the six novilleros who won the most awards in 2025 — keep an eye on them. Which one is your favourite?

However, these events offer many more attractions. Among them is a special challenge featuring six Madrid-based breeding farms on 1 May, with three novilleros also from the Community of Madrid. In addition, up to eight of these young bullfighters will make their debut at Las Ventas, facing the demanding Madrid crowd: Álvaro Serrano, Joel Ramírez, Mario Arruza, Cristian González, Martín Morilla, Mario Vilau, Julio Norte and Julio Méndez.

Below are the line-ups, organised by date and fair, so you can choose the combinations that best match your interests and preferences. Good luck and al toro!

MADRID COMMUNITY FAIR:

Friday, 1 May – 18:30
Novillada with picadors. Bulls from breeding farms of the Community of Madrid for David López, Álvaro Serrano (debut) and Joel Ramírez (debut).

Sunday, 3 May – 18:30
Novillada with picadors. Bulls from Couto de Fornilhos for Mario Arruza (debut), Cristian González (debut) and Juan Alberto Torrijos.