Rubén Amón opens Hogueras 2026 with a tribute to Esplá

A full Teatro Principal hosts Rubén Amón’s opening speech, a tribute to Luis Francisco Esplá that officially launches the 2026 Hogueras Fair.

Alicante is already embracing the atmosphere of the fair. The city took its first step towards the 2026 Hogueras celebrations with a Bullfighting Opening Speech that completely filled the Teatro Principal, with Rubén Amón as the central figure of the evening.

The Madrid-born journalist and writer delivered an emotional address focused on Luis Francisco Esplá, marking the 50th anniversary of the matador’s alternativa. It was a speech that connected instantly with the audience and set the tone for what promises to be a very special fair.

A speech blending words and music

The evening stood out for its staging. Amón was accompanied by the Virtuós Mediterrani orchestra, conducted by maestro Gerardo Estrada, in a combination of music and spoken word that added rhythm and depth to the event.

With minimal reliance on notes, the speaker delivered a carefully crafted narrative, rich in nuance, reflecting on both the artistic and human dimensions of Esplá. The audience, fully engaged, responded with a long ovation after nearly fifty minutes.

Esplá at the heart of the season

The Alicante-born matador was the central theme of the speech. His legacy will shape the entire 2026 season, conceived as the “Year of Esplá”, featuring cultural events, a major exhibition and a documentary dedicated to his career.

The personal connection between Amón and Esplá brought warmth and authenticity to the speech, adding emotional depth that resonated strongly with those in attendance.

A gala of announcements and key figures

The event, hosted by journalist José Germán Estela, also included the unveiling of the official fair poster, created by artist Miquel Barceló and likewise inspired by Esplá.

In addition, a tribute was announced for Gregorio Tébar “El Inclusero”, which will take place in the bullring with a public training session to mark the 60th anniversary of his alternativa.

Strong institutional and bullfighting presence

The evening brought together numerous authorities, including Alicante’s mayor Luis Barcala, who reaffirmed the city’s strong bullfighting identity and highlighted the fair’s importance on the national stage.

Institutional representatives, leading figures from the bullfighting world, active matadors and young prospects were also present, reflecting the unity of the sector on a key night.

Organised by Alicante City Council alongside Eventos Mare Nostrum and various local bullfighting associations, the gala once again confirmed its status as one of the city’s major social and cultural events.

High expectations for a “very special” fair

The company managing the bullring announced that the official line-ups will be revealed in the coming days. The aim is to deliver a top-level fair, potentially featuring major names who have recently suffered injuries but are expected to return.

The message is clear: work is underway to shape one of the most complete and ambitious fairs in recent years.

From Servitoro, you can now reserve your tickets in advance for the 2026 Hogueras Fair.

José Miguel Arruego

Bullfighting Journalist

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