Review Valencia – 13 March 2026

The Feria de Fallas began its main bullfighting programme with a contest defined more by the determination of the matadors than by the fighting qualities of the La Quinta bulls. Within this context, David de Miranda secured the only trophy of the afternoon, sealing his performance with a resolute display and a decisive sword thrust.

The Huelva-born bullfighter found little scope in his first appearance. The replacement bull that ran third offered limited scope and presented difficulties, forcing him to shorten proceedings without leaving a lasting impression. However, the closing stages of the corrida brought a shift in momentum.

Facing the sixth, De Miranda appeared composed and upright, managing with intelligence an animal whose charge hinted at class despite lacking depth. He strung together well-tempered series with the right hand and produced expressive, individual naturals. The performance gathered intensity towards a finale of manoletinas, concluded with a forceful kill that secured the ear.

Román provided moments of genuine interest, particularly with his first bull, which he received boldly from the centre of the ring. He judged distance and timing effectively, connecting with the crowd through early right-handed series. However, the faena lost momentum when switching to the left, and the sword denied him greater rewards in his second turn, despite a renewed call for a trophy.

Fortes, meanwhile, was left without the necessary material for success. The fourth lacked transmission, limiting any attempt to build a structured performance. His most notable work came with the opening bull, producing some well-shaped right-handed passes, though without sufficient continuity to complete the task.

Overall, the corrida conveyed the impression of a contest sustained by the commitment of the matadors rather than the drive of the herd, in an afternoon where ambition prevailed over bravery.