The second San Fermín 2026 encierro ended in just 2 minutes 26 seconds. Cebada Gago bulls, known for their danger, ran tightly packed. Numerous runners fell as the herd left little room to maneuver.
Pamplona’s second encierro of San Fermín 2026 delivered a tense, high-speed spectacle as the Cebada Gago bulls completed the course in 2 minutes and 26 seconds. The run was marked by a tightly packed herd, leaving minimal space for runners and resulting in a series of falls along the route. Despite their reputation for aggression, the Cebada Gago bulls maintained a disciplined pace, but the compact formation created a hazardous environment for participants.
The Cebada Gago ranch holds a notorious place in San Fermín history, recording more gorings than any other breeder at the festival—over fifty injuries by horn to date. This year, six bulls from the Cádiz-based ranch, weighing between 555 and 590 kilograms, took part. The largest, Manijero, is black, while the lightest, Branador, is a black-brindle meano. The group also included Palillero (grey), Filósofo (light grey), Pintado (black mulatto with streaks), and Cepillito (black).
Throughout the run, the herd’s close formation made it nearly impossible for runners to find safe gaps, increasing the risk of falls and trampling. The bulls’ smaller size compared to those from Fuente Ymbro the previous day did little to reduce the intensity of the event. Emergency services were on high alert, responding quickly to incidents along the route.
This year’s San Fermín festivities have drawn significant attention, not only for the challenging encierros but also for the heightened presence of emergency services and record crowds. The opening day’s focus on public safety and the role of first responders was highlighted in coverage of the festival’s launch, underscoring the ongoing efforts to manage risks during one of Spain’s most iconic events.
San Fermín’s encierros are a central tradition in Pamplona, attracting thousands of locals and tourists each July. The event’s combination of adrenaline, unpredictability, and historical significance continues to define the city’s summer, while the presence of renowned herds like Cebada Gago ensures that each run remains both a test of courage and a challenge for safety officials. The festival’s enduring appeal lies in this delicate balance between tradition and risk, drawing global attention to Pamplona year after year.
