Seville’s Novilladas: The Future of Bullfighting on the Grandest Stage

Seville isn’t just about prestige and tradition — it’s also where the future of bullfighting takes shape. The most promising young talents in the art of the “novillada” (bullfights with young bulls) will enter the legendary Maestranza arena between May and June. It’s the perfect excuse to visit one of the world’s most beautiful cities — especially in spring — and witness the rise of tomorrow’s stars in one of Spain’s most iconic venues.

La Maestranza is known as one of the top bullrings in the world — but it’s also a place of opportunity. On the final Sundays of May, following Seville’s world-famous Feria de Abril, and on three Thursdays in June, the historic Plaza de Toros del Baratillo becomes a stage where young toreros get to shine. A showcase where they raise their voices and prove, in the most demanding of rings, that they belong in the world of bullfighting.

Only five novilladas are scheduled — meaning just around fifteen young matadors will have the honour of performing. Most of them have already made a name for themselves by succeeding in smaller venues and novillada festivals, earning their chance to face the discerning Seville crowd.

This season, the line-up includes top prospects such as Aarón Palacio, winner of the Zapato de Oro in Arnedo and Naranja de Oro in Algemesí, and El Mene, who claimed the Vid de Oro in Arganda, the Alfarero de Oro in Villaseca, and the Castilla y León Novillada Circuit. Also appearing are Valentín Hoyos and Fabio Jiménez, both finalists in Madrid’s prestigious Cénate Las Ventas competition last season.

Seville will also host local novilleros who have shown great promise early in their careers — including Mariscal Ruiz, Diego Bastos, Martín Morilla, and Uceda Vargas — alongside Cordoban toreros Manuel Román and Fuentes Bocanegra. This strong line-up is made even more appealing by the Final of the Andalusian Novillada Circuit, held at La Maestranza on Sunday 25 May, featuring the three most outstanding young talents of the season.

2025 Novillada Schedule – Seville:

– Sunday, 18 May – Novillos from Fuente Ymbro for Manuel Román, Aarón Palacios, and Mariscal Ruiz

– Sunday, 25 May – Novillos from José Luis Pereda for the Final of the Andalusian Novillada Circuit

– Thursday, 12 June – Novillos from Fermín Bohórquez for Uceda Vargas, Cristiano Torres, and El Mene

– Thursday, 19 June (Corpus Christi) – Novillos from Murteira Grave for Diego Bastos, Fuentes Bocanegra, and Martín Morilla

– Thursday, 26 June – Novillos from Julio de la Puerta for Valentín Hoyos, Fabio Jiménez, and Cristian González

But without doubt, the most eagerly awaited novillada of the season is the one set within the Feria de Abril — on Monday 28 April. This special event features a mano a mano (head-to-head) between Marco Pérez and Javier Zulueta. Pérez is the latest prodigy of bullfighting, admired for his natural flair and confidence in the ring from a remarkably young age. Zulueta, a product of the Seville bullfighting school, brings with him all the soul and artistry of the city’s long-standing tradition. Both have already triumphed at La Maestranza, so their duel promises to be intense and full of emotion — the perfect prologue for what’s to come.

Come and witness the birth of the next generation of matadors in one of the world’s most iconic arenas.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of bullfighting history. Book your tickets now!