Morante is reborn amid incomprehension; Roca Rey and Miranda triumph in Malaga

The Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta in Málaga reopened its gates on Saturday, August 22, 2026, hosting the final bullfight of the season under the Feria Taurina de Málaga. The historic venue welcomed over 9,000 spectators eager to witness the performances of three top-tier bullfighters: Morante de la Puebla, Roca Rey, and David de Miranda. The event marked the culmination of a month-long festival that began on August 8 and featured seven bullfights, one performance by recortadores, and two novilladas. This year’s edition was particularly special due to the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Málaga bullring, which opened with a bullfight in 1876. The bullfight took place at the usual time for such events during the festival period, starting at 7:00 PM local time. The lineup included bulls from Torrealta and Garcigrande, providing a mix of styles and challenges for the matadors. Tickets ranged from 40 euros for the cheapest seats up to 360 euros for premium positions, though many had already sold out earlier in the week. The event was broadcast live via Canal Sur, the regional television channel of Andalusia, and also available through its digital platform, Canal Sur Mas, accessible on smart TVs, Android, and iOS devices. The Feria Taurina de Málaga is held annually in honor of the city's conquest by the Catholic Monarchs in 1487. This year’s celebrations were especially poignant given the milestone of the bullring’s sesquicentennial. The festival attracted both locals and visitors, offering a blend of traditional spectacle and modern accessibility through media coverage. The event closed with a highly anticipated performance by Morante de la Puebla, Roca Rey, and David de Miranda, who delivered a series of intense and dramatic acts that kept the crowd engaged throughout the evening. Earlier in the week, the festival had already drawn attention with notable performances. On August 21, Victorino Martín made a triumphant return to Málaga after a twelve-year absence. His performance was highlighted by a dramatic incident involving Manuel Escribano, who suffered a serious goring from the first bull of the day. Despite the injury, Escribano continued his act, ultimately receiving applause from the audience for his perseverance. The incident underscored the risks inherent in bullfighting, even among seasoned professionals. Victorino Martín’s return was celebrated with enthusiasm, and his performance was considered a highlight of the festival. He was joined by Emilio de Justo and Saúl Jiménez Fortes, whose acts were described as technically sound and emotionally resonant. Fortes, in particular, delivered a standout performance, earning the bull’s return to the ring in recognition of his skill. The trio’s efforts were met with loud ovations from the crowd, reflecting the deep cultural significance of bullfighting in the region. Following the Málaga festival, several other bullfighting events are scheduled across Spain. The Semana Grande de Bilbao will take place from August 22 to 30 in the Plaza de Toros de Vistalegre, followed by the Feria de San Atilano in Zaragoza from August 28 to 30. Additional festivals include the Feria del Arroz in Murcia from September 3 to 8 and the Feria de la Virgen de la Vega in Salamanca from September 11 to 14. These events continue the tradition of bullfighting as a central part of Spanish cultural life, drawing large audiences and maintaining the sport’s relevance despite ongoing debates about its ethics and future.