Madrid review – 2 May 2026
5 de May de 2026
*Imágenes: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
The Goyesca bullfight on 2 May at Las Ventas produced some outstanding moments, with Javier Cortés and El Cid taking centre stage on an afternoon that yielded no trophies.
Las Ventas once again staged one of its most emblematic events with the traditional Goyesca corrida on 2 May, held in front of a near-capacity crowd and attended by institutional figures. In the ring, a demanding El Pilar bullfight required skill and insight from the matadors.
The standout performance of the afternoon came from Javier Cortés. Facing the sixth, the most complete bull of the lot, the Madrid-born matador crafted a performance that grew in intensity. From the outset, the bull showed quality through the right side, allowing Cortés to link a series of well-paced, low-handed passes with depth and control. The crowd quickly engaged, culminating in a final series that lifted the atmosphere in the stands. However, his failure with the sword reduced the reward to a warm ovation. With his first, despite his willingness, he was unable to fully deliver.
El Cid also produced notable moments, particularly with the second bull. From the cape, he showed elegance with well-shaped verónicas. With the muleta, he found the best line on the left-hand side, drawing deep, expressive passes that resonated with the crowd. The bull’s limited stamina curtailed the overall impact of the performance. After an unsuccessful kill, he was rewarded with an ovation. With the fifth, offering little opportunity, he was unable to make an impression.
Uceda Leal faced a more difficult afternoon, unable to find connection with his lot and leaving the ring without response after two quiet performances.
Overall, the El Pilar bulls displayed varied behaviour, demanding precision and technique. The sixth stood out for its quality and transmission, offering the greatest opportunity for success.
Among the supporting cast, banderilleros Rafael González and Juan Antonio Maguilla were applauded for their work, as was Pablo Gallego for his performance in the sixth.
It was an afternoon of substance in Madrid, where moments of triumph were within reach but ultimately denied by the sword, leaving behind performances of significance at Las Ventas.
Venue: Las Ventas Bullring (Madrid) Event: Goyesca Corrida – Day of the Community of Madrid Attendance: Sold out (“No tickets available” – 21,483 spectators, according to the organisers) Weather: Intervals of cloud and sunshine with occasional rain
Six bulls from El Pilar, well presented, with serious and refined conformation, though uneven in size and height. Overall lacking some strength and stamina, they offered varied possibilities. The lot of El Cid stood out for its quality and nobility, while the sixth, though manageable, allowed for expression without great intensity.
Silence after a perpendicular contraria sword thrust; silence after a failed attempt, a forward perpendicular half-sword and six descabellos.
Ovation after two warnings following four failed attempts; silence after a low half-sword.
Silence after a low sword thrust; silence after a warning following a low thrust, a failed attempt, another low thrust and a forward low sword.
Rafael González and Juan Antonio Maguilla were applauded for their banderillas work, as was Pablo Gallego.
Images: Alfredo Arévalo Plaza 1
