Review Madrid – 10 May 2025

One ear for Víctor Hernández and two laps of honour for Galván in an afternoon of courage without full reward

Madrid experienced an afternoon of contrasts in the second bullfight of the San Isidro Fair. The wind interfered, the president’s box denied what many in the stands considered fair, and the sword deprived the matadors of greater triumphs. Still, there was no shortage of commitment, finesse, and dedication. David Galván was twice celebrated with laps of honour after two meaningful performances, while Víctor Hernández sealed a solid showing with the only ear of the day. Diego Urdiales, given a lacklustre pair of bulls, left in silence.

In the most demanding bullring in the world, every detail matters. And on Saturday 10th May, Madrid’s exacting standards clashed with emotion, aesthetics, and controversy.

The afternoon began uphill for Diego Urdiales, faced with two bulls that offered little promise. His first from El Pilar showed resistance from the start and refused to lower its head. Urdiales applied his sober approach, but with no depth to work with, there was little to be done. Silence. The fourth brought more of the same: a lifeless, disinterested bull. The veteran from La Rioja stayed composed and willing, yet again, with no chance to shine.

David Galván told a different story. His first, the second of the afternoon, was met with elegance. His faena flowed with rhythm and composure, especially on the right horn, where he shaped two fluid series full of grace. On the left, he produced well-drawn naturals, finishing the work with two passes behind his back and a powerful chest pass. The sword landed well, and Las Ventas called strongly for an ear — denied by the president. Galván, with quiet dignity, took a lap of honour that felt like a prize withheld.

In the fifth — a replacement bull from Castillejo de Huebra — Galván again found himself with limited material. The bull faded quickly, but Galván didn’t flinch. He led it to the boards and, from there, extracted all he could with authoritative, upright muletazos along the right side. Another solid sword strike followed, and once more Madrid rallied behind him for a trophy. Again, the box said no. A second lap of honour, this time even more deserved.

Víctor Hernández threw himself into the afternoon with resolve. His first bull — the third of the day — was demanding. The young matador rose to the challenge, taking risks, holding his ground, and constructing a series of intense passes. One particularly powerful left-handed series drew heartfelt applause from the crowd. A half-thrust with the sword, well placed, earned him the afternoon’s only ear.

With the sixth, a replacement from Villamarta, Hernández showed heart once more. It was an uncertain bull, but the Madrid-born torero committed fully. He sought connection with the crowd, and the response came. However, this time the sword failed him, and the prize was limited to a warm ovation following a warning.