Bullfights will no longer be legally held in Colombia starting from July 22, 2027, the date when the law known as “No More Olé” will come into full effect, eliminating these events throughout the national territory.
The regulation also includes the prohibition of other bullfighting practices, including:
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Novilladas
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Becerradas
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Rejoneo
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Tientas
All these measures aim to strengthen animal protection and welfare.
Transition Period and Decree 0703 of 2026
While awaiting the date of the definitive prohibition, the national Government issued Decree 0703 of 2026 to regulate the transition period. The main measures of this decree establish:
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Non-bloody bullfights: Authorized events cannot cause injuries to the animals nor the spilling of blood.
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Prohibition of elements: The use of pikes and banderillas is forbidden.
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Protection of minors: The entry of minors to these shows is restricted, and it is prohibited for under 18s to participate as rejoneadores, novilleros, or matadors.
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Zero public resources: It is prohibited to allocate public funds for the holding or financing of bullfighting events.
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Advertising regulation: The advertising of these events must explicitly warn that it involves animal exploitation and promote animal welfare campaigns.
Key Declarations
Senator Esmeralda Hernández (Historical Pact), author of the law “No More Olé”, highlighted the scope of the regulation during the transition:
“It means that henceforth no bull can be gored or slaughtered in the arena (…). Each day a step closer to the abolition of cruel animal shows in Colombia.”
