Juan Ortega's bullfighting skill shines amid Pamplona's ear-cutting frenzy

Pamplona, Spain – In a bullfighting afternoon where six ears were awarded, four of them to Tomás Rufo who exited the ring on horseback, only Juan Ortega displayed the sincere and quality bullfighting that the brave Jandilla bulls deserved. The bulls, described as the bravest and most complete of the San Fermín festival, were generous in their charges, with animals contributing significantly to the performances.

Rufo benefited from a "career-making" lot of bulls, which displayed perfect form and serious, unexaggerated appearance. These Jandilla bulls charged relentlessly and with supreme quality. Critics noted that the animals were responsible for 90% of the reason for the generous awards. One bull, in particular, was justly honored with a lap of honor for its sustained and powerful charges, though Rufo's handling was criticized for lacking sufficient precision and command.

Despite the bulls' quality, Rufo's performance was deemed by some to be below the animals' standard. He received two ears for the first bull and two more for the sixth, whose left horn was described as "dreamlike" in quality. However, Rufo's handling was characterized by a single, "vulgar" series on the left side, followed by crowd-pleasing maneuvers and empty flourishes aimed at the festive crowds.

In contrast, Juan Ortega's performance with the less cooperative bulls highlighted authentic bullfighting. He demonstrated skill with seat, true charges, and committed handling of his Jandilla bulls' limited charges. Ortega also showcased his skill with the cape, employing verónicas and chicuelinas, particularly when assisting the bull that received a lap of honor. His natural series on the opening bull was lauded as the best and most authentic of the afternoon.