In pictures. Bayonne Festival 2025: a look back at horseback bullfighting

Resounding triumph for Guillermo Hermoso de Mendoza at the 2025 Bayonne Festival equestrian bullfight Bullfighters Guillermo Hermoso de Mendoza and Joao Moura were carried in triumph during the rejón bullfight at the Bayonne Festival. © Photo credit: Bertrand Lapègue The Navarrese bullfighter set the Bayonne bullring alight this Saturday, July 12, cutting off two ears and the tail of his first bull, Romao Tenorio. Guillermo Hermoso de Mendoza in full control during the equestrian bullfight at the Bayonne Festival 2025. Despite the public's anticipation, who came mainly for her, disappointment for the Frenchwoman Léa Vicens who left empty-handed. Portugal's Joao Moura got into the swing of things during his second round. After a more timid performance against his first bull, he demonstrated his expertise and his ability to bullfight on his mount during this second round. The forcados are groups of eight men at the heart of Portuguese bullfighting. Their role is to immobilize the bull with their bare hands in a collective act of courage called the pega. The first man confronts the bull's charge, then his seven teammates help him subdue the animal. These are unpaid amateurs who act out of honor and camaraderie. More than an assistant, the peon is the matador's security. With a precise stroke of the cape, he places the bull, diverts danger, and ensures the fluidity of the fight. An essential job, far from the spotlight. Léon Léglise raises mules in Hasparren, used to carry the bull carcasses out of the arena during each bullfight. Young singer Julie Rouault before the paseo yesterday at the Bayonne arenas. The soul of our celebrations. The music and infectious energy of the bandas. Before the bullfight, a bullfighting cavalcade paraded towards the Bayonne arenas. Published on 07/13/2025 at 11:08 a.m.