Morante and Seville: Much More Than an Affair

The first major headline of the year was Morante’s presence in the Seville season. Just three months after his retirement, the Seville-born matador has committed himself to the cause and will be the first bullfighter to make the ceremonial entrance in the new era of the historic arena. Here are his line-ups by date. Spoiler: choosing just one won’t be easy.

Seventy-seven ceremonial entrances as a matador, plus 30 ears and one historic tail in his trophy bag — that is Morante’s record at a Maestranza that venerates and idolises him, proudly claiming to have recognised his talent and potential before anyone else. For that reason, and despite his widely publicised retirement on 12 October, the genius from La Puebla del Río did not hesitate to answer the call of the arena’s new manager, fellow Sevillian José María Garzón, when he requested Morante’s presence for the opening of this new era at the historic venue.

Without question, Morante is the defining matador of modern bullfighting. His triumphs last season amplified by live, free-to-air television coverage have elevated him to cult status, not only among the most knowledgeable aficionados who have long admired him, but also among younger audiences discovering the spectacle for the first time, who could hardly have a better reference point as they begin their journey into this art form.

Morante is not only the cornerstone of the 2026 Seville season; his mere presence gives it meaning. From his appearance on Easter Sunday the opening bullfight of the year and Garzón’s debut at the helm of the arena to his double commitment during the April Fair, and his effort to revitalise a traditional date in Seville’s bullfighting calendar such as Corpus Christi Day. Four engagements that could become five should he accept the invitation to perform in September during the San Miguel Fair.

The line-ups, as expected, are packed with quality and interest. Morante has chosen to share the bill with leading figures, artists of a similar style, and promising members of the new generation who have been making headlines in recent months and are tipped to become key names at the major fairs in seasons to come.

From Roca Rey — one of the top figures of today — to Juan Ortega and Pablo Aguado, forming the quintessential “artistic” line-up, as well as names such as Borja Jiménez and Tomás Rufo, standout performers of recent years, or David de Miranda and Víctor Hernández, who made a strong impression in 2025 and aim to continue making waves this season:

These are Morante’s dates in Seville. Which one could you possibly choose?

Sunday, 5 April – Easter Sunday
Bulls from Garcigrande for Morante de la Puebla, Roca Rey and David de Miranda.
Thursday, 16 April
Bulls from Álvaro Núñez for Morante de la Puebla, Juan Ortega and Víctor Hernández.
Monday, 20 April
Bulls from Hermanos García Jiménez for Morante de la Puebla, Borja Jiménez and Tomás Rufo.
Thursday, 4 June – Corpus Christi
Bulls from Hermanos García Jiménez for Morante de la Puebla, Juan Ortega and Pablo Aguado.