In Mexico City on Sunday, bullfighting made a controversial return to the Plaza México, the world’s largest bullfighting arena, following a temporary revocation by the country’s highest court of a local ruling that had suspended the events for over a year and a half. The decision came amid an ongoing legal battle between bullfighting enthusiasts and animal rights defenders who argue that the practice violates animal welfare and infringes on the right to a healthy environment.
The legal landscape for bullfighting in Mexico City is intricate, with opposing viewpoints adding complexity to the debate. While bullfighting remains permissible in many parts of Mexico, the capital is a focal point for the clash between supporters and critics.
Renowned Mexican matador Joselito Adame entered the ring as the first bullfighter, eliciting cheers from thousands of fans welcoming back the “fiesta brava,” as bullfighting is known in Spanish. As six bulls were fought and killed during the event, some spectators passionately expressed their support with shouts of “Long live freedom.”
Outside the arena, approximately 300 protesters gathered to voice their opposition to bullfighting. Chants of “Murderers!” and “The plaza is going to fall!” resonated among activists, while others used drums and signs reading “Bullfighting is sadism” to convey their sentiments. The protest remained largely peaceful, although moments of tension arose when some activists threw plastic bottles and stones.
Questioning the decision to allow bullfights to resume, activist Guillermo Sánchez held a sign reading “Sadism disguised as culture, sport, and tradition.” Another protester, Alfredo Barraza, viewed the decision as a setback in the fight for animal rights, expressing hope that Mexico City would eventually be free of violent spectacles.
Inside the Plaza, the atmosphere was festive, with spectators enjoying food, drinks, and taking photos. Aldo Palacios, celebrating his 42nd birthday, expressed excitement about not only witnessing the inaugural bullfight but also marking the occasion with his family.
The legal saga surrounding bullfighting in Mexico City dates back to May 2022 when a local court, responding to an injunction by the civil organization Justicia Justa, ordered the end of bullfighting activities at Plaza México. However, the Supreme Court of Justice revoked the suspension in December, allowing the events to resume while the case’s merits and impact on animal welfare are under consideration.
In a last-minute effort to halt the bullfights, another civil organization filed an appeal on animal welfare grounds, but a ruling was not expected before the scheduled event. Animal rights groups have gained momentum in Mexico in recent years, leading to restrictions on bullfighting in various states, while proponents argue that the ban jeopardizes jobs and poses economic risks associated with the activity.
The Ultimate Guide to Physical Activity for Seniors
Ranchers, businessmen, and fans contend that bullfighting contributes significantly to the economy, generating an estimated $400 million annually in Mexico. The National Association of Fighting Bull Breeders in Mexico, citing 80,000 direct jobs and 146,000 indirect jobs linked to bullfighting, has actively promoted the tradition through events and workshops in an effort to attract new, younger enthusiasts.
