The Madrid Superior Court of Justice has confirmed a substantial fine of 96,000 euros against the Brava Madrid festival's organizer, Madrid Salvaje AIE. This decision follows a ruling on December 8, 2023, that deemed the use of 'cashless' wristbands as the sole payment method during the festival to be a serious infringement on consumer rights. Additionally, festival participants were charged fees to obtain refunds for unused funds, which further exacerbated the complaints made by Facua-Consumidores en Acción, a consumer rights organization that initially brought the issue to light.

Facua alerted the authorities about these practices, leading to an investigation by the Subdirectorate General of Consumer Inspection and Market Control in Madrid, which ultimately resulted in the fine due to two serious administrative violations. The court's rejection of the organizer's appeal against the sanction underscores the judiciary's commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair practices in commercial events.

The implications of this ruling extend beyond just the Brava Madrid festival, serving as a significant reminder to festival organizers and similar events about the importance of adhering to consumer protection laws. As cashless payment systems become more commonplace at events, this ruling could prompt stricter oversight and regulations for such practices, influencing how future festivals handle payment mechanisms and consumer relations in Spain and beyond.