Madrid Review – 17 May 2026

Las Ventas once again displayed the “Sold Out” signs during another major day of the San Isidro Fair. The ninth event of the Madrid festival featured a Fuente Ymbro corrida with mobility and opportunities for the matadors to shine, especially through several bulls that allowed moments of real interest from the three-man line-up.

Fernando Adrián once again confirmed his excellent form in front of the Madrid crowd. The local matador produced the strongest and most convincing moments of the afternoon against the third bull, a brave and expressive animal that allowed him to build a faena with immediate connection to the spectators.

From the beginning of the muleta work, Adrián focused on rhythm and fluidity, making the most of the quality shown by the bull on both sides. His best passages came on the left hand, where the series carried greater depth and control. The faena gradually increased in intensity before ending with a powerful closing sequence that was warmly applauded by the crowd. However, failing with the sword at the first attempt reduced his chances of winning a trophy, and he finally received an ovation after a warning.

The replacement sixth bull, also from Fuente Ymbro, offered far fewer possibilities and gave the Madrid matador little chance to shine.

Paco Ureña also found moments with trophy potential in the second bull of the afternoon. The matador from Murcia began an emotional and committed performance, especially with the right hand, where he achieved the cleanest and best-linked passes of his faena. The left horn proved less reliable and limited the development of the work, although he still managed to connect with the Las Ventas crowd. After an effective sword thrust at the second attempt, he received an ovation.

Against the fifth, Ureña again showed willingness and commitment, although the faena never fully developed into a stronger artistic performance.

Miguel Ángel Perera produced moments of quality, particularly with the fourth bull, an animal that offered opportunities on the right hand side. The Extremaduran matador delivered several composed and expressive muletazos, but his lack of precision with the sword once again prevented any possibility of a trophy. The opening bull of the afternoon proved more difficult and offered very limited chances.

The Fuente Ymbro corrida showed variety and moments of interest within a serious and well-presented group of bulls. In addition, the ranch displayed black ribbons throughout the afternoon as a sign of mourning following the recent death of its mayoral, Alfonso Vázquez.