One runner was gored in the face during the fifth running of the bulls at the San Fermín festival in Pamplona, Spain, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, according to the Associated Press.
Incident Details
The goring occurred as fighting bulls from the herd of Jose Escolar charged through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Pamplona. Revelers and runners scrambled to avoid the animals, with several falling in the path of the bulls. The injured runner was quickly attended to by medical staff on-site before being transported to a local hospital. The severity of the facial wound has not been disclosed, but such injuries can be life-threatening due to the proximity to major blood vessels and airways.
Festival Background
The San Fermín festival, held annually from July 6 to 14, draws thousands of participants and spectators from around the world. The running of the bulls is its most famous event, involving a 875-meter (0.54-mile) dash from the Santo Domingo corral to the bullring. Despite safety measures, injuries are common; since 1910, 16 people have died during the run, with the last fatality in 2009. The AP report did not specify if the gored runner was a local or a tourist.
Response and Safety
Emergency services were on standby throughout the event, as per festival protocols. Red Cross volunteers and medical teams stationed along the route provided immediate assistance. The Pamplona city council has implemented stricter safety rules in recent years, including bans on alcohol consumption during the run and increased surveillance. However, animal rights groups continue to protest the event, citing cruelty to the bulls, which are killed in bullfights later in the day.
Broader Context
The 2026 festival occurs amid ongoing debates about the future of traditional bull-running events in Spain. While deeply rooted in cultural heritage, they face growing opposition from animal welfare advocates and changing public attitudes. The incident underscores the inherent risks of the event, which participants accept voluntarily. The AP noted that no other serious injuries were reported during the run.
