Review Madrid – 17 May 2025

On the eighth afternoon of the San Isidro fair, Las Ventas hosted its first rejoneo event of the season in a festive atmosphere. Expectations were high, and the three horse-riding bullfighters—each with their own distinctive style—rose to the occasion. The bulls, from El Capea and San Pelayo, offered varying levels of challenge, with most allowing for strong performances.

Despite arriving with a physical injury, Diego Ventura gave a masterclass in the art of rejoneo with the fifth bull. Riding Fabuloso, he opened the act with rhythm and precision, guiding the bull across the arena with elegant side-passes. Then came Quitasueño, with whom Ventura worked in extremely tight terrain, intensifying the faena. The crescendo came with Brillante, as he thrilled the crowd by placing three short banderillas al violín. A well-placed killing blow and a sharp descabello secured him a deserved ear.

In his first appearance, Ventura showed glimpses of brilliance but was denied reward due to an unsuccessful final thrust.

Rui Fernandes stood out particularly with his second bull. Mounted on H-Quiebro, he placed banderillas with precision, having called the bull from afar. His performance grew stronger with Mistral, whose tight pirouettes so close to the bull drew great applause. It was a committed and professional act, sealed with a well-placed killing strike that earned him one ear. His first performance was sober and correct, greeted with a respectful ovation.

Lea Vicens saved her best for the final act of the afternoon. She began by welcoming the sixth bull with Cleopatra, immediately engaging the crowd. Her work with Bético produced three strong banderillas, performed with poise and fluidity. Joker impressed in sideways galloping, while Fermín closed the act with two accurate “roses” (decorative banderillas). A solid killing blow earned her the ear amidst warm applause. In her first act, an uneven performance and a weak final blow left her unrewarded.

The event confirmed that rejoneo continues to have an honoured place at Madrid’s most prestigious fair. All three performers connected deeply with the Las Ventas crowd. Ventura, even in less than ideal condition, reaffirmed his status as a star. Fernandes and Vicens both delivered compelling performances, each leaving their own imprint on the evening. Horseback bullfighting lives on—and Madrid acknowledged it with thunderous support.