Video. Spain: Nine injured in fourth San Fermín bull run in Pamplona
Fourth Annual Bull Run Stuns Pamplona with Nine Injuries on Busy Festival Day
A Thrilling Morning in the Spanish City
Spain - The historic streets of Pamplona swelled with enthusiastic participants and spectators on July 10, marking one of the most anticipated moments of the San Fermín festival. Thousands of devoted followers converged upon the ancient city to witness the fourth running of the bulls, an event that has captivated international audiences for generations. As dawn broke over the northern Spanish city, the energy was palpable, with runners preparing for what would become an action-packed morning filled with both excitement and unexpected drama.
The traditional encierro commenced promptly at 8:00 a.m., when the gates opened and the powerful animals began their charge through the labyrinthine streets that have served as the racecourse for centuries. Runners from every corner of the globe joined the throng, their faces a mixture of anticipation and nervous determination. The narrow pathways, lined with eager onlookers, created an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere as the bulls thundered past, their hooves echoing against the cobblestones.
The Incident at Estafeta Street
While the morning run proceeded with its customary intensity, trouble struck at one of the most notorious sections of the course. The sharp bend leading into Estafeta Street proved to be particularly treacherous on this occasion. Several bulls lost their footing on the slick cobblestones, slipping and falling with considerable force. The chaotic scene that followed saw multiple participants knocked to the ground as the panicked animals careened in different directions.
The Estafeta bend has long been recognized as one of the most dangerous portions of the entire bull run route. The combination of factors that make this section hazardous includes the high speed at which runners and bulls approach the corner, the uneven surface of the ancient cobblestones, and the abrupt change in direction that requires both animals and humans to adjust their momentum rapidly. These elements frequently cause both bulls and runners to lose their balance, resulting in falls and collisions.
Medical Response and Aftermath
According to officials at Navarra University Hospital, the incident resulted in nine individuals sustaining injuries. Medical teams worked quickly to assess the severity of each case, with five of the injured requiring transport to the hospital for more comprehensive treatment. The remaining four received on-site care before being released to continue enjoying the festival. Fortunately, none of the injuries were reported as life-threatening, allowing the medical staff to manage the situation efficiently.
Continuing Celebrations Throughout the Day
Despite the morning's complications, the San Fermín festival pressed on with its full schedule of activities. Away from the intensity of the bull run, families and children participated in specially organized events designed to engage younger generations with the traditions of the celebration. Street performers entertained crowds with music and acrobatics, while live bands provided continuous entertainment throughout the day.
A particularly cherished tradition took place as children made their traditional offering to San Fermín, the patron saint of Pamplona. This age-old ceremony, in which young participants present gifts and prayers to the saint, adds a spiritual dimension to the otherwise raucous festivities. Following these morning activities, the festival moved toward its afternoon highlight: the traditional bullfight, which draws both local enthusiasts and international visitors alike.
An Evening of Festivity
As daylight faded, Pamplona transformed once again. Fireworks illuminated the night sky above the ancient city, casting colorful reflections on the historic buildings. Concerts featuring both local and international artists provided musical entertainment for those who wished to continue celebrating. Late-night venues remained open, offering dancing and socializing for the energetic crowd that refused to let the day end.
The fourth San Fermín bull run thus concluded as another memorable chapter in the festival's rich history, demonstrating once again why this celebration continues to attract thousands of participants from across the world. The combination of tradition, excitement, and community spirit that defines the event was on full display, even as the morning's injuries served as a reminder of the inherent risks that make the bull run so thrilling.