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Mexico City Bans Violent Bullfighting, Introducing 'Bloodless' Alternative

The new legislation prohibits killing or wounding bulls, limits bullfights to 15 minutes, and aims to balance animal rights concerns with economic interests.

A demonstrator in support of bullfighting holds a sign reading 'Prohibited to prohibit' outside the Congress of Mexico City, in Mexico City, Mexico March 18, 2025. REUTERS/Raquel Cunha
FILE - Animal rights activists smeared with fake blood and donning banderillas to depict bulls stabbed in bullfights, protest against bullfighting, in Mexico City, Feb. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte, File)
Demonstrators protest against bullfighting in front of the Benito Juarez Hemicycle monument, in Mexico City, Mexico March 18, 2025. REUTERS/Raquel Cunha
Congressman Jesus Sesma Suarez participates in a session considering the practice of bullfighting in the Congress of Mexico City, Mexico March 18, 2025. REUTERS/Quetzalli Nicte-Ha

Overview

  • The Mexico City legislature passed the law with a 61-1 vote, prohibiting the use of sharp objects and the killing or wounding of bulls in bullfights.
  • The legislation introduces 'bloodless bullfighting,' where bulls are not harmed but still participate in non-violent events, sparking mixed reactions.
  • Animal rights activists have celebrated the ban as a significant step toward reducing cruelty, though some argue it does not eliminate animal stress entirely.
  • Bullfighting supporters criticize the law as a threat to cultural traditions and economic livelihoods, with the industry generating tens of thousands of jobs and millions in revenue annually.
  • The new rules will take effect in 210 days, allowing time for the establishment of regulations to govern the reformed bullfighting events.