The prize for best bullfighter is abolished in Spain. The left-wing government announced this. The announcement has received widespread support from animal rights activists, but bullfighting enthusiasts are opposing it.
“We did not think it was appropriate to maintain a prize that rewards a form of animal abuse. A majority of Spaniards are increasingly concerned about animal welfare. This is outdated,” stated Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun.
The prize, an initiative of a previous left-wing government in 2011, has previously been awarded annually and was worth 30,000 euros. Many famous toreros, such as Julián López and Enrique Ponce, have already received it.
Opposition sees opportunity
Interest in the tradition seems to be declining throughout the country, especially among young people. According to the latest figures from the Ministry of Culture, only 1.9 percent of all Spaniards attended a bullfight in the 2021-2022 season.
The main opposition party has already promised to reinstate the prize if it returns to power. “Bullfighting is an activity that is part of our culture and our traditions and our identity as a people,” said Miguel Tellado of the PP. Some regional governments in turn announced that they would launch their own bullfighting prizes.
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Tags: Spanish government stops awarding bullfighter award date
