Mexico City bans traditional bullfighting
25-03-2025On March 18, the Congress of Mexico City voted to ban the mistreatment and killing of bulls during bullfights. This decision marks the end of traditional bullfighting in the world’s largest bullring. This historic ruling represents a significant step forward in animal protection and a shift towards more animal-friendly policies.
Mexico City bans traditional bullfighting | Picture: CAS International
Historic Vote
A total of 61 representatives voted in favor of the ban, 1 against. In addition to the ban on killing bulls, the use of instruments that injure the animals is also prohibited. However, bloodless bullfights remain allowed. Only the capes (capote and muleta) may still be used, and the bull must return to the farm after the event.
Although bullfighting is not entirely banned, this ruling ends the practice in its traditional form, which has existed for nearly 500 years in Mexico City.
A new direction for Mexico City
According to Clara Brugada, head of government in Mexico City, this decision paves the way for bullfights without violence. On her Instagram, she emphasized that Mexico City is an animal-friendly city, where the rights of animals are protected and respected because they are sentient beings.
Citizen initiative and political decision-making
The Mexican coalition México Sin Toreo previously submitted a citizen initiative calling for a complete ban on bullfighting in Mexico City. In response, the ruling party Morena introduced a weakened proposal allowing bloodless bullfighting. However, the bullfighting industry has stated that it does not see a future in this form of bullfighting.
Citizens’ initiative submitted to end bullfighting in Mexico City
CAS International welcomes this decision
CAS International, a member of México Sin Toreo, welcomes this ruling as a step in the right direction.
“This demonstrates that traditions and culture can evolve, in line with the current norms and values of society,” said Maite van Gerwen, Director of CAS International.
According to a survey by research firm Enkoll (March 2015), 75% of Mexico City’s residents oppose bullfighting.
Fighting for a complete ban
We continue to fight for a complete ban. Because bullfighting, with or without blood, always involves animal suffering. Together, we will keep fighting until all forms of bullfighting are a thing of the past.
