Lineup Revealed for Mérida’s “Corrida Blanca” Bullfight

Celebrating Tradition: Monumental Mérida’s 96th Anniversary and the Legacy of Bullfighting in Mexico

The Monumental Mérida, one of Mexico’s most iconic bullrings, will celebrate its 96th anniversary in grand style with the much-anticipated “Corrida Blanca” on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Organized by Toros Yucatán, this year’s event boasts a stellar lineup of bullfighting talent, promising an unforgettable afternoon steeped in tradition and skill.

The event begins at 4:30 PM and will feature three exceptional bullfighters: French maestro Sébastien Castella, celebrating his 25th year in the ring; Joselito Adame from Aguascalientes, the star of the season’s first bullfight; and rising talent Héctor Gutiérrez, known for his impressive track record at Mérida. Together, they will face bulls from the renowned Bernaldo de Quirós ranch, adding to the excitement of the afternoon.

The Lineup: A Blend of Experience and Rising Stars

Sébastien Castella, a fan favorite, will return to Mérida after a seven-year absence. His last appearance on December 17, 2017, saw him share the ring with Fermín Spínola and Luis David. Castella was the only matador to earn a trophy that day, cutting an ear from a bull from Villa Carmela. His return is highly anticipated, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

Joselito Adame, a household name among bullfighting fans, is coming off a triumphant performance on October 27, 2024, where he earned two ears from La Estancia bulls. Adame’s connection to the Monumental Mérida runs deep—he celebrated his 500th bullfight at this venue on March 16, 2020, commemorated with a plaque in the bullfighter’s courtyard. This will be his 15th Paseíllo (entrance into the ring) at Mérida, where he holds a record of 20 ears won.

Héctor Gutiérrez, a promising talent, has also enjoyed success in Mérida. On his debut on April 23, 2022, he earned two ears from a Villa Carmela bull. In his subsequent appearance on March 25, 2023, he repeated the feat. The Bernaldo de Quirós ranch, known for producing formidable bulls, adds another layer of intrigue to Gutiérrez’s upcoming performance.

Bullfighting in Mexico: A Controversial Legacy

Bullfighting, or la fiesta brava, has a long and storied history in Mexico. Introduced by the Spanish in the 16th century, it evolved into a uniquely Mexican tradition. By the early 20th century, bullrings like Monumental Mérida, inaugurated in 1929, became central to the cultural life of many cities.

However, the sport has faced significant challenges in recent decades. Growing opposition from animal rights groups has led to bans in some states, including Sonora in 2013 and Coahuila in 2015. In Mexico City, bullfighting was temporarily banned in 2022, though legal challenges have allowed events to continue under certain conditions.

Despite these setbacks, bullfighting has seen a resurgence in states where it remains legal, driven by its deep cultural roots and the passionate support of aficionados. For many, the sport is not merely entertainment but a living tradition that blends art, skill, and heritage.

Anticipation for the “Corrida Blanca” 2025

This year’s White Bullfight is poised to be one for the history books. The blend of seasoned veterans like Castella and rising stars like Gutiérrez reflects the enduring appeal of bullfighting as both a sport and a cultural tradition.

Tickets for this much-anticipated event are available through Boletea.com and at the Monumental Mérida box offices. Fans eager to witness this historic celebration of skill and tradition should secure their seats early.

Looking Ahead

As Monumental Mérida celebrates 96 years of bullfighting history, the event also serves as a reminder of the sport’s resilience in the face of controversy. Whether you see bullfighting as a timeless art or a tradition in need of reevaluation, its cultural significance in Mexico cannot be denied.