José María Garzón, the newly appointed promoter for the Sevilla bullfighting season, is under scrutiny for the announced lineups that many critics view as disappointing. While Garzón was expected to bring innovation and a break from past conventions, the reality appears to reflect a continuation of the previous year’s selections, sparking frustration among fans and stakeholders alike. The anticipation for Garzón’s tenure was built on hopes that he would signal a transformative shift within the traditional bullfighting community, particularly at the prestigious La Maestranza venue.

The criticisms levied against Garzón suggest that he may not be the transformative figure that many hoped, as the card lineup reportedly seems to draw heavily from a forgotten draft left by Ramón Valencia, the former businessman ousted in a controversial manner. This continuity raises questions not only about Garzón’s vision for the future of bullfighting in Sevilla but also about his independence given his close ties to the bullfighter Juan Ortega and the broader establishment. It appears that the changes which many fans anticipated are not yet forthcoming, leading to widespread disappointment among aficionados eager for a revitalized bullfighting scene.

As the community looks for a new direction in bullfighting, Garzón's decisions may ultimately reflect on the commercial viability and cultural relevance of the sport in Spain. The emphasis on promoting established names rather than introducing bold new talent could signal a resistance to change within the bullfighting industry, emphasizing the power of existing relationships over innovative ventures. The upcoming season will not only define Garzón’s tenure but could potentially shape the future landscape of bullfighting in Sevilla for years to come.