Bullfighting Joins Forces for Medical Research in Toledo

The bullfighting world reaffirms its commitment to social causes with a special event in Toledo. On 12 April, the capital of Castilla-La Mancha will hold a charity novillada to support the work of the National Hospital for Spinal Cord Injuries, a leading centre in the treatment and research of spinal cord damage.

Toledo is gearing up for a bullfighting event filled with meaning, emotion, and solidarity. On Saturday, 12 April, the city’s bullring will open its doors for a charity novillada unlike any other. The entire proceeds from the day will go towards supporting essential medical research and patient care at the National Spinal Cord Injury Hospital, a centre of national and international prestige.

The event will feature two promising young matadors: Marco Pérez, a rising star currently leading the novice rankings, and Pedro Rufo, who will be making his debut with picadors in front of his home crowd. The pair will face bulls from the Montealto ranch, in a mano a mano organised by the events company Eventos Mare Nostrum.

The official presentation of the event took place in the hospital’s auditorium, with the presence of the two novilleros, members of the hospital’s management team, and representatives from the organising company. During the presentation, Marco Pérez expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying he felt “grateful to use bullfighting as a way to support such an important cause.” Pedro Rufo, brother of celebrated matador Tomás Rufo, shared his excitement for both his debut and the opportunity to contribute to a charitable effort.

Sagrario Carabaño and Mónica Alcobendas, members of the hospital’s management, emphasised the importance of initiatives like this one, which help raise awareness and provide funding for key areas such as advanced rehabilitation technology, digital accessibility, and training in the design of personalised medical devices using 3D printing.

This bullfight has also brought together support from across the taurine community. Notably, the Corrida de la Juventud scheduled for the same day in nearby Illescas has been postponed to avoid clashing with the charity event—a gesture warmly acknowledged by the organisers. “Solidarity has come from all sides,” said Nacho Lloret, director of the organising company, highlighting the generosity of top matador Andrés Roca Rey, who has even expressed his desire to attend the event in Toledo.

With this celebration, bullfighting once again reveals its compassionate side, proving that beyond the arena, it can be a powerful force for good—offering hope and tangible support to those who need it most.

As this is a charity event with a particularly attractive lineup, a large turnout is expected. Tickets are already on sale at Servitoro.com, the official ticketing platform, and early purchase is highly recommended to avoid missing out. In addition to enjoying a unique afternoon of bullfighting in the historic Toledo bullring, spectators will be contributing directly to a cause of tremendous human value. Don’t miss the chance to experience bullfighting at its most meaningful—your ticket could help change lives.