Historic Victory: Mexico City Moves to End Bullfighting

Mexico City is on the verge of making history by banning the torture and slaughter of bulls in bullfights.

PETA Latino said this about the new legislation: “PETA Latino thanks the Congress of Mexico City for banning the torture and killing of bulls in the capital, a big step in the right direction to end cruelty to bulls in this violent spectacle. We also thank the animal advocates and the thousands of citizens who signed the first preferential citizens’ initiative in the city to demand a ban on bullfighting. Without this effort, the Plaza Mexico would still be stained with blood. As polls show, most Mexicans agree that these spectacles of death should be banned, and together, we will work tirelessly to have a Mexico Without Bullfighting.”

What Does the Bill Do?

The bill submitted by Mexico City’s mayor doesn’t explicitly outlaw bullfights—but it makes holding them virtually impossible. This strategy mirrors what happened in Bogotá, Colombia, where similar restrictions led to an effective ban.

What Is Bullfighting?

Bullfighting is a prolonged execution. Bulls—who are naturally peaceful and social—are tormented in the arena. Assailants on horseback stab them with lances before matadors plunge sharp banderillas into their backs.

As they weaken from blood loss, they are taunted and ultimately killed with a sword—or, if that fails, their spinal cord is severed with a knife. Many are still conscious as their ears or tails are hacked off as “trophies” before their bodies are dragged from the arena.

Tens of thousands of bulls suffer this fate every year in bullfighting festivals across the world. But Mexico City is proving that we can break the cycle of cruelty.

The Fight Continues

This victory belongs to the animal defenders who showed up, the lawmakers who listened to their communities, and the countless individuals who spoke out for bulls.

But the fight against bullfighting continues. We will continue pushing for a Mexico Without Bullfighting—because no animal should ever suffer for human “entertainment.”

What You Can Do to Help:

• If you’re in Mexico, contact your representatives and urge them to support a full ban on bullfighting.
• Share this news with your family and friends to raise awareness.
• Never support events that exploit animals for entertainment.

Compassion is winning. But bulls still need us to finish the fight. So, let’s rally together and throw bullfighting in the trashcan of history where it belongs.