Mexico City bans violent bullfighting

A new law prohibits killing or injuring the animal during the spectacle, while also seeking to protect the matador

Mexico City lawmakers have overwhelmingly voted to make bullfights bloodless, aiming to address concerns about animal cruelty while preserving a centuries-long tradition. It also follows a recent incident where a bull seriously injured a matador.

Passed 61-1 on Tuesday, the law prohibits killing or injuring animals during the spectacle and bans matadors from using sharp objects such as swords. Bulls will have their horns covered to prevent injuries to humans. A 15-minute limit has also been set on how long bulls can be in the ring.

According to the newspaper El Universal, the bill started off as a citizen initiative, which was supported by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada.

Brugada celebrated its passage the on social media, saying it was a step towards turning the capital into “a city which respects animal rights.” According to various estimates, up to 250,000 bulls are killed each year in bullfighting worldwide.

Supporters of the sport protested outside the Mexican Congress building on Tuesday, with some attempting to breach barricades. Riot police had to intervene after scuffles broke out between rival groups of protesters.

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Bullfighting was introduced to Mexico from Spain in the 16th century, and has since become deeply embedded in the national culture. Mexico City hosts the world’s largest bullring, Plaza Mexico, which seats over 40,000 spectators. While the practice has historically generated revenue and employment, it has faced increasing criticism from animal rights activists who view it as inhumane. Violent bullfighting remains legal in most parts of Mexico except for a handful of states.

Earlier this month, during the Corrida de Carnaval in the state of Tlaxcala, matador Emilio Macias was severely gored by a bull. As Macias attempted the final thrust, the animal unexpectedly charged, hooking its horn between the matador’s legs and lifting him off the ground for several seconds. Macias was immediately taken to a hospital, where he underwent a nine-hour surgery to address injuries to his rectum, colon, and right hip.

In recent years, several Latin American countries have banned violent bullfighting, but Spain still allows killing the animal. Bloodless bullfighting has also been adopted in Portugal and in the US state of California.

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The Mexico City law will take effect in 210 days, allowing time for the authorities to update regulations before the new bullfighting season starts in November.