The resumption of bullfights in Mexico City has sparked protests outside a packed arena, following a temporary revocation by the country’s highest court. This ruling sided with animal rights activists, who had succeeded in suspending the events for more than 18 months. The Plaza México, the world’s largest bullfighting arena, saw the return of bullfights, igniting the hopes of fans amid a prolonged legal battle between supporters and opponents. Critics argue that the practice violates animal welfare and impacts people’s right to a healthy environment, while bullfighting is still permitted in many parts of Mexico. In the capital, the legal battle over its future has been filled with twists and turns.
Renowned Mexican matador Joselito Adame was the first bullfighter to enter the ring, greeted by thousands of cheering spectators welcoming the revival of “fiesta brava,” as bullfighting is known in Spanish. A total of six bulls were fought on Sunday, all of which were eventually killed.
Meanwhile, outside the arena, around 300 people gathered to protest against bullfights. Some activists shouted “Murderers!” and “The plaza is going to fall!” while others played drums or held signs reading “Bullfighting is sadism.” The protest remained largely peaceful, although some tense moments ensued when a few activists threw plastic bottles and stones.
Activist Guillermo Sánchez expressed his concerns, questioning why bullfights were allowed to return given the evidence of harm done to the bulls. He held up a sign that read “Sadism disguised as culture, sport and tradition.” Another protester, Alfredo Barraza, wearing a paper mask shaped like a bull, described the allowance of bullfighting as a “setback in the fight for animal rights,” expressing hope that Mexico City will eventually be free of violent spectacles.
Inside the Plaza, the atmosphere was festive, with people enjoying food, drinks, and taking photographs. Aldo Palacios, who brought his two children and other relatives to the arena, shared his excitement at being present for the inaugural bullfight, using the occasion to also celebrate his 42nd birthday.
In May 2022, a local court had ordered the end of bullfighting activities at Plaza México in response to an injunction presented by the civil organization Justicia Justa, which defends human rights. However, the activities resumed on Sunday following the December revocation of the suspension by the nation’s Supreme Court of Justice, pending further discussions on whether bullfights affect animal welfare.
Another civil organization filed an appeal on animal welfare grounds on Friday, making a last-ditch effort to prevent the activity from resuming. A ruling on this appeal was not anticipated before Sunday’s event. Animal rights groups have been making progress in Mexico in recent years, with several states imposing judicial measures to limit bullfighting, while supporters argue that the ban affects their rights and jeopardizes thousands of jobs associated with the activity.
The National Association of Fighting Bull Breeders in Mexico estimates that bullfighting generates about $400 million every year and supports 80,000 direct jobs and 146,000 indirect jobs. The association has been organizing events and workshops to promote bullfights and attract new, younger fans.
