Valencia Review – 19 March 2026

The 2026 Fallas Fair came to a close at the Valencia Bullring with a corrida from Núñez del Cuvillo that produced quality moments and a clear standout: Emilio de Justo. The Extremadura-born matador delivered the most complete performance of the afternoon, falling just short of a major triumph.

From his first bull, De Justo displayed authority and control, particularly on the right-hand side. Despite challenging wind conditions at times, he imposed his rhythm and built a performance that steadily grew in intensity. After a well-executed kill, the crowd called for the ear, but the request was not granted.

The highlight of the afternoon came with the fifth, the best bull of the corrida. De Justo understood him perfectly from the outset, guiding him with length and rhythm in the early right-handed series. The performance reached its peak on the left-hand side, where he produced the most profound and expressive moments. He rounded off the faena with pure, close-range work that fully engaged the crowd. A slightly flawed sword thrust prevented a greater reward, leaving him with one ear despite a strong appeal for the second.

Alejandro Talavante also produced notable passages, particularly with the opening bull. His performance, built on smoothness and control, found its best expression in the natural passes. However, the sword once again denied him a trophy. He was unable to replicate that level in his second appearance.

Juan Ortega, meanwhile, showed flashes of his refined style with the sixth, offering moments of elegance and taste, though without continuity. A lack of effectiveness with the sword left him without reward.

The Núñez del Cuvillo bulls were well presented and offered overall quality and opportunities, with the fifth standing out for its class and movement. Ultimately, the possibility of a greater triumph was curtailed by the finishing with the sword.

Valencia thus brought its fair to a close with a significant performance from Emilio de Justo, once again proving his ability to deliver high-level bullfighting in top-tier arenas.