Haunting last words of a matador fatally gored
A Celebrated Matador
Iván Fandiño Barros, born in Orduña in 1980, became one of Spain’s most daring matadors.
Known for facing the fiercest bulls, he said,
“A true matador does not fear death; he respects it.”
The Fatal Afternoon
On June 17, 2017, during the Aire-sur-l’Adour festival in France, Fandiño stumbled when his cape caught his foot.
A 600-kg bull struck him in the chest.
As he was rushed away, he whispered,
“Hurry up… I’m dying.”
He suffered massive internal injuries and died en route to the hospital.
Global Shock and Tributes
King Felipe VI called him “a great ambassador of our cultural heritage.”
Fellow matadors canceled appearances, while fans mourned with #AdiosFandino.
Renewed Debate
His death reignited controversy over bullfighting.
Supporters hailed bravery and tradition; critics condemned cruelty, calling the practice “institutionalized suffering” for bulls.
