José María Garzón has been appointed as the new manager of the historic La Maestranza bullring in Seville, marking a significant change in leadership after 93 years under the Pagés company. With a background deeply rooted in the bullfighting culture of Seville, Garzón took it upon himself to revitalize the venue and bring fresh energy to the Spanish bullfighting scene. His first decisive action was a pilgrimage to Portugal, where he persuaded prominent bullfighter Morante de la Puebla to join the upcoming season.

The upcoming 2026 season will witness Morante's much-anticipated return to the ring, scheduled for Resurrection Sunday in Seville. Garzón's approach to management is characterized by a break from traditional practices, and he has gained a reputation as a dynamic figure in the bullfighting world, evident from his previous endeavors in other cities like Santander and Málaga. His commitment to enhancing the bullfighting experience and attracting top talent is seen as a pivotal step in rejuvenating interest in this controversial yet culturally significant sport in Spain.

Garzón's journey to leadership in La Maestranza has not been without its challenges, as he has navigated a landscape fraught with obstacles while making an impact on the bullfighting community. His perspective and innovative ideas may bring about a much-needed transformation in the operations of La Maestranza, helping to secure the bullring's status as a center of cultural heritage and entertainment in Seville, especially with the reintroduction of iconic figures like Morante de la Puebla into the spotlight.