Runner Gored in Face at Spain’s San Fermin Bull Run

POLICY WIRE — PAMPLONA, Spain – A participant in Spain’s San Fermin bull run festival was gored in the face on Saturday, according to reports from the event. In addition to this severe injury, 12 other individuals required medical treatment for various knocks and impacts sustained during the chaotic run.

The incident occurred as six bulls and accompanying steers charged through the crowded, narrow street course in Pamplona. Sources indicated that the large animals knocked several participants to the cobblestones. The fast-paced and congested conditions also led to multiple pile-ups among stumbling runners, contributing to the overall disorder of the event.

The entire run, from the initial holding pens to the bull ring, was completed in approximately two — and a half minutes. Following the run, the bulls are traditionally killed by bullfighters later on the same day, a customary practice of the festival.

The specific goring incident involved a runner who was pierced by a horn in the face. The University of Navarra Hospital confirmed that a total of 12 other people received medical attention for an assortment of knocks sustained during the event. Further details from reports described a black bull separating from the main group early in the 875-meter (957-yard) course. This particular bull then reportedly collided with a group of people, striking one directly in the side of the face with its horn.

The San Fermin festival, known globally for its daily bull runs, attracts numerous thrill-seekers to Pamplona each year. The event involves participants running ahead of a group of bulls through the city’s streets. Reports indicated that the chaotic nature of Saturday’s run resulted in numerous close calls beyond the reported injuries, with many participants narrowly avoiding serious harm.