The seventh San Fermín 2026 encierro saw Miura bulls complete the course in 2:34. The herd made a rare lap in the arena before entering pens. Eight people were injured, four hospitalized, none by goring.
Speed and spectacle defined the seventh encierro of San Fermín 2026 in Pamplona, as the Miura bulls completed the run in just two minutes and 34 seconds. The entire herd, known for their size and power, stunned onlookers by circling the bullring before heading into the pens—a gesture not seen in years at this festival. Medical teams reported eight injuries, with four runners requiring hospital care. Notably, none of the injuries were caused by goring or horn wounds.
The run began with the traditional rocket launch at the Santo Domingo corral. Miura bulls, all weighing over 600 kilos, surged forward at a relentless pace. Early in the course, one bull stumbled on the cobblestones of Mercaderes street, briefly separating from the group. Despite the potential for increased danger when a bull is isolated, this animal quickly regained its footing and continued alongside a steer, avoiding further incident.
Throughout the route, the bulls maintained a tight formation, creating tense moments for runners. Several participants fell on the initial slope, unable to match the animals’ speed. The critical turn at Mercaderes and Estafeta, often a hotspot for accidents, passed without major incident as the bulls navigated it cleanly. With fewer crowds than on previous days, experienced runners managed to execute some of the longest and most daring sprints of the week, producing dramatic scenes inside the barricades.
As the herd approached the final stretch, tension rose again. Piles of runners formed on both sides of the passageway leading to the arena, but the Miura bulls stayed on course, galloping directly into the plaza. Just as it seemed the run would end in record time, the leading bulls slowed and, in a coordinated move, completed a full lap of the ring. This allowed the group to reunite with the previously delayed bull before all entered the pens together.
The Miura bulls this year were the heaviest seen so far, with none under 600 kilos. Gaditano and Decoroso each weighed 635 kilos, surpassing Merecido (630), Mochuelo (615), Famoso, and Andaluz (605). All were cárdenos—black and white in color, though the dark shade dominated their appearance. The herd’s imposing size and disciplined behavior contributed to a run that was both fast and, by San Fermín standards, relatively safe.
San Fermín’s encierros are closely watched for both their tradition and the risks involved. This year’s Miura run stands out for its speed and the rare lap in the arena, echoing past editions but with a modern twist. For comparison, a previous run with La Palmosilla bulls also saw a high number of injuries and rapid pace, as detailed in coverage of the La Palmosilla encierro.
San Fermín remains one of Spain’s most iconic festivals, drawing thousands to Pamplona each July. The encierros are broadcast live and followed by audiences across the country. While the tradition is celebrated for its excitement and history, safety remains a central concern for organizers and participants alike. The Miura bulls’ performance this year will be remembered for its combination of speed, discipline, and a nod to the festival’s storied past.
