Rockin' the Bullring: A Shift in Mexico City's Century-Old Tradition
Mexico City prohibits swords in bullfights, securing a victory for animal rights advocates.
Bullfighting, an age-old spectacle deep-rooted in several Spanish-speaking cultures, is undergoing a revolutionary transformation in none other than the heart of Mexico City.
Sayonara to Cruelty, Hello Evolution
Originating in Spain and Portugal, bullfighting was initially linked to aristocratic soirees and colorful fests. The arena pitched a matador against a bull, often ending in the animal's death. Now, with shifting attitudes towards animal welfare and increasing sensitivity, bloodless bullfights have surfaced as a more compassionate alternative. Though critics claim it lacks authenticity, this version of bullfighting is popular worldwide, including in various U.S. states [3].
Bullfighting's Twilight in the City of Palaces
The wind of change has been knocking in Mexico City for quite some time, with a bold step towards phasing out brutal bullfighting. In March 2025, the city's legislature enacted a groundbreaking ban on the killing or injuring of bulls, restricting the animal's ring time to mere 15 minutes [1][2]. This reform was the brainchild of Mayor Clara Brugada and was met with applause from animal rights activists, who viewed it as a significant stride towards ending animal cruelty [2]. Predictably, it sparked strong opposition among traditionalists, who argued it threatened both culture and economy, as bullfighting generates substantial revenue and supports thousands of jobs [2].
Economic and Cultural Dilemma
The financial impact of bullfighting on Mexico City is hefty; it provides employment to around 80,000 people [2]. However, proponents of animal rights query whether any cultural or economic advantage could outweigh the suffering of animals. The phasing out of bullfighting in Mexico City signals a broader societal inclination towards valuing animal welfare over traditional entertainment [1][2].
Legal Battles Ahead
This isn't Mexico City's first rodeo when it comes to legal challenges to bullfighting.
Activists in the Americas, including Tlaxcala, have joined the growing movement to end bullfighting in Mexico City, following the city's ban on injuring or killing bulls in 2025. Despite the economic benefits, Romo, a prominent activist, argues that the suffering of animals should outweigh cultural traditions and the potential revenue generated by bullfighting. In response, traditionalists, particularly those in the world of bullfighting, have vowed to challenge the ban in court, promising a prolonged legal battle.
