Madrid Review – 1 May 2026

The opening novillada of the Community of Madrid Fair drew a crowd of over 15,000 spectators to Las Ventas, with anticipation surrounding a new generation of bullfighters and a dramatic incident casting a shadow over the afternoon.

Álvaro Serrano, making his debut at Madrid’s iconic arena, emerged as the standout name of the day. His most accomplished work came with the fifth bull, where he found quality on the left-hand side. His natural passes were composed, well-paced and full of expression, building a performance of real substance, finished with elegant flourishes at close quarters. A notable effort that went unrewarded due to the sword, though warmly acknowledged by the crowd.

He had already shown determination in his first, a difficult animal that never fully submitted. Serrano displayed firmness and commitment to gain control, producing two commendable right-handed series. After an initial failure with the sword, he was met with a strong ovation.

Joel Ramírez, also making his debut, showed willingness and composure despite an unhelpful draw. His performance with the third, an uninspiring and reluctant bull, stood out for its effort and dignity. He was applauded after a decisive kill. In the sixth, his work was inevitably affected by the dramatic injury to banderillero Raúl Ruiz, yet he continued to show professionalism and resolve.

David López endured a quieter afternoon, unable to connect with his lot. He received applause for his first and was silenced after his second.

The most shocking moment came during the banderillas of the sixth, when Raúl Ruiz suffered a severe goring to his right thigh after being violently caught by the bull. He was treated immediately in the infirmary before being transferred to hospital, leaving a palpable sense of concern among those in attendance.

From a breeding perspective, the mixed-breed novillada from various Madrid ranches produced uneven results. The fifth stood out for its depth and possibilities, while others lacked quality or willingness.

Despite the incident, the afternoon confirmed Álvaro Serrano as a promising prospect for the season, in a corrida that combined expectation, commitment and the inherent risks of bullfighting.

Medical report

Goring wound with an entry point on the inner side of the middle third of the right thigh, with an outward trajectory of 25 cm. The injury caused contusion to the femoral artery and severe damage to the adductor muscles, vastus medialis and rectus femoris, with an exit wound on the outer side of the middle third of the right thigh.

He underwent surgery under general anaesthetic in the bullring infirmary before being transferred to La Fraternidad Muprespa-Habana Clinic.

Condition: Serious

Signed: Dr Máximo García Padrós – Máximo García Leirado.