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Mexico City prohibits aggressive bullfighting
(MENAFN) Lawmakers in Mexico City have voted overwhelmingly to prohibit the killing and injuring of bulls in bullfights, aiming to balance tradition with animal welfare concerns. The law, passed on Tuesday by a 61-1 vote, bans matadors from using sharp weapons, requires bulls to have their horns covered to prevent injuries, and limits the time each bull can spend in the ring to 15 minutes.
The legislation, originally proposed as a citizen initiative, was backed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada. Brugada hailed the decision on social media, calling it a step toward making the capital “a city that respects animal rights.” Estimates suggest that up to 250,000 bulls are killed in bullfights worldwide each year.
While the decision has been praised by animal rights activists, it has also sparked protests. Supporters of traditional bullfighting gathered outside the Mexican Congress on Tuesday, with some clashing with rival demonstrators. Riot police were deployed to maintain order.
Bullfighting has been part of Mexican culture since the 16th century when it was introduced by Spanish colonizers. Mexico City is home to Plaza Mexico, the world’s largest bullring, which can hold over 40,000 spectators. Despite its economic and cultural significance, the sport has faced growing opposition, with some Mexican states banning violent bullfighting in recent years.
The new law follows a high-profile incident earlier this month in which matador Emilio Macias was severely injured during the Corrida de Carnaval in Tlaxcala. As he attempted a final strike, the bull gored him, causing serious injuries that required a nine-hour surgery.
Mexico City’s new regulations will take effect in 210 days, allowing authorities time to adjust rules before the next bullfighting season begins in November. Similar bloodless bullfighting practices are already in place in Portugal and California, while Spain continues to permit traditional bullfights.
The legislation, originally proposed as a citizen initiative, was backed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada. Brugada hailed the decision on social media, calling it a step toward making the capital “a city that respects animal rights.” Estimates suggest that up to 250,000 bulls are killed in bullfights worldwide each year.
While the decision has been praised by animal rights activists, it has also sparked protests. Supporters of traditional bullfighting gathered outside the Mexican Congress on Tuesday, with some clashing with rival demonstrators. Riot police were deployed to maintain order.
Bullfighting has been part of Mexican culture since the 16th century when it was introduced by Spanish colonizers. Mexico City is home to Plaza Mexico, the world’s largest bullring, which can hold over 40,000 spectators. Despite its economic and cultural significance, the sport has faced growing opposition, with some Mexican states banning violent bullfighting in recent years.
The new law follows a high-profile incident earlier this month in which matador Emilio Macias was severely injured during the Corrida de Carnaval in Tlaxcala. As he attempted a final strike, the bull gored him, causing serious injuries that required a nine-hour surgery.
Mexico City’s new regulations will take effect in 210 days, allowing authorities time to adjust rules before the next bullfighting season begins in November. Similar bloodless bullfighting practices are already in place in Portugal and California, while Spain continues to permit traditional bullfights.
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