Bullfighting firm in Seville to give free tickets to under-eights

Company says move is best way to introduce tradition but critic claims it could psychologically damage young children

A firm managing bullfights at Seville’s renowned bullring is to give free tickets to children under eight, adding to a national debate about the traditional, and gory, Spanish pastime.

The company, Pages, said adult spectators with a ticket for the “novilladas” – practice bullfights involving younger bulls – at Seville’s Maestranza may be accompanied by a child free of charge, which it said was “the best way to introduce the little ones” to the world of bullfighting.