Mérida Bullfighting to Stop, At Least For Now, As Operator Quits after 12 years

Toros Yucatán, operator of the Toros de Mérida bullfighting events, announced Wednesday that it will withdraw months after signs of trouble at the historic arena. 

In a statement, the company indicated that its exit is due to the failure to reach an agreement with the State Government to renew the stadium’s lease contract.

“After 12 years of great work with the Government of the State of Yucatán, Toros Yucatán has been unable to reach an agreement for the renewal of the lease of Mérida’s bullfighting ring and is therefore withdrawing as the operating company of said property,” the document reads.

The company thanked the fans, sponsors, suppliers, and employees for their support.

“It was an honor to be part of your lives and create unforgettable moments together,” reads the statement.

The statement adds that the decision was made “after careful evaluation and in strict adherence to our corporate values and principles.”

The news is being taken as a victory by opponents who have, for decades, tried to stop bullfights by legal means. 

“Our detractors always say that we must let the people decide, and well… it looks like people have voted not just in the ballots but with their wallets,” said animal rights advocate Christina Sanchéz.

Mexico’s bullfighting association has said that they are actively working to find new sources of funding to take on the venue’s lease, though even the association’s president, Manuel Sescosse, admits it will likely take years before bullfighting returns to Mérida — if ever. 

Among the suggestions for the venue on local social media groups are a remodel to make its seats more comfortable and building a proper stage to attract concerts and other types of events. Mérida’s bullfighting ring has a capacity for 6,500 seats and has, on occasion (though not for years), been used as a venue for cultural events, wrestling matches, and concerts. Because of its age and iconic status, even if a new concessionary is not found to operate bullfights, it is unlikely that the structure will be demolished. 

The first major bullring in Mérida was a simple wooden circular structure built in the early 1900s and popularly known as the Amatista or the Ring of the North. For decades, it hosted the most prominent bullfights in the region. However, by the mid-20th century, it had deteriorated and was demolished. 

The History of Plaza de Toros Mérida

The Plaza de Toros Mérida opened on January 27, 1929, promoted by entrepreneurs Fernando and Antonio Palomeque Pérez de Hermida. The inaugural bullfight featured Fermín Espinosa “Armillita” and Luis Freg “Don Valor” with bulls from the Piedras Negras ranch.

Built in the style of Granada, Spain’s bullring, the arena holds 5,400 spectators and sits in the García Ginerés neighborhood on Calle 72 with Calle 33-B. The venue became a cornerstone of Yucatán’s bullfighting culture, hosting legendary figures throughout its history.

The plaza witnessed Manolete’s final performance in Mexico and America on February 9, 1947. In 2012, it set a world record when 14-year-old Michel Lagravere became the youngest bullfighter ever to take the Alternativa.

The venue’s darkest chapter occurred on November 15, 1981, when 48 people died in a stampede during a PRI political rally. The crowd exceeded capacity, causing a wall to collapse and triggering panic among attendees.