Khaberni - The city of Malaga in southern Spain witnessed a tragic accident that shook the sports community, after the death of former bullfighter Ricardo Ortiz, aged 51, as a result of a fatal stab from one of the bulls inside the La Malagueta ring on Friday evening, during preparations for a traditional bullfight inspired by the works of the global artist Pablo Picasso.
The event organizing company "Lances de Futuro" announced in an official statement that Ortiz was involved in the process of unloading bulls inside the ring when one of them suddenly charged and attacked him violently, causing a fatal injury that instantly claimed his life.
The company expressed its deep sorrow and condolences to the family of the deceased, confirming that the accident occurred under tragic and unexpected circumstances.
The event being prepared for is known as "Picassian corrida", a traditional bullfight held annually on Holy Saturday during the Easter holiday, and is characterized by a special artistic nature inspired by the works of Picasso, who was born in Malaga and was a fan of bullfighting, as it frequently appeared as a theme in his paintings and art.
The late Ricardo Ortiz came from a prestigious family in the world of bullfighting, and had retired from the profession more than twenty years ago, but remained connected to it through his work managing the bulls inside the main ring of the city, which accommodates about 9,000 spectators.
The tragic accident brought to mind the significant risks that accompany this longstanding Spanish tradition, which continues to provoke wide controversy among its supporters and opponents.
While some consider it a heritage art rooted in Spanish identity, others see it as a cruel and barbaric practice that does not align with modern values.
Data from the Spanish government indicate that the country hosts about 1,500 bullfights annually, often coinciding with religious occasions, despite its declining popularity in recent years.
The last professional bullfighter to die during an official match was Victor Barrio in 2016 in the city of Teruel to the east of the country.
Local authorities in Malaga have opened an investigation to determine the circumstances of the accident, as sadness loomed over the atmosphere of the city, which was preparing for a special artistic and cultural celebration, suddenly turned into a tragic day in the memory of Spanish bullfighting.
