Review Madrid – 6 June 2026

The 2026 San Isidro Fair concluded one of its most exciting chapters with the triumph of Román, who added another significant achievement to his career in Madrid by opening the Great Gate of Las Ventas. The Valencian matador was the only bullfighter to earn trophies in an afternoon defined by the demanding nature of the Victorino Martín bulls and the atmosphere of a major occasion, with another complete sell-out filling the stands.

The key moment of the corrida came with the third bull of the afternoon, an animal full of character and transmission that allowed Román to build a faena of great depth and importance. From the outset, the matador showed his determination, accepting risks and basing his performance on commitment, authority and complete dedication.

The Victorino charged with intensity, depth and a remarkable ability to engage the crowd. Román quickly understood the bull’s qualities, making the most of its stronger right side and linking together a series of powerful and commanding passes.

As the faena progressed, the connection between matador and spectators continued to grow. Román imposed his style on a bull that demanded precise positioning, control and confidence. Each series increased the intensity of the performance, leading to some of the most memorable moments of the afternoon.

The decisive sword thrust ultimately secured the triumph. Román executed a committed and perfectly timed kill that brought a fitting conclusion to a faena of tremendous commitment. The crowd’s petition was overwhelming, and the president awarded two ears, prompting celebrations throughout the packed arena.

The sixth bull, however, offered far fewer possibilities. Although the Valencian maintained the same positive attitude and sought to extend his success, the animal’s conditions prevented him from producing another performance of similar impact. Silence was the outcome of his second appearance.

Morenito de Aranda displayed commitment throughout the corrida. The Burgos-born matador faced a difficult lot and worked hard to unlock the possibilities of two demanding opponents. His efforts were appreciated by sections of the crowd, although both performances ultimately ended without reward.

Fernando Adrián was also unable to find a route to success. The Madrid matador never fully connected with his bulls, and his faenas failed to reach the expected heights. The inconsistency of the charges and the demanding nature of the Victorino Martín bulls prevented him from making a decisive impact.

The corrida once again highlighted the unique character of the Victorino Martín breeding line, renowned for producing bulls that require intelligence, determination and adaptability from matadors. In that context, Román was the bullfighter who best interpreted the challenges of the afternoon and deservedly earned the greatest reward.

His shoulder-high exit through the Great Gate marks the second such achievement of his career at Las Ventas and strengthens his position among the leading names of the current season. It was a triumph in the world’s most demanding bullring and one of the defining moments of the 2026 San Isidro Fair.