Rui David Da Conceiçao Fernandes, better known in the bullfighting world simply as Rui Fernandes, is a prominent figure in the specialty of rejoneo.
Born on October 23, 1978, in Charneca da Caparica, Almada, Portugal, Fernandes has left an indelible mark in the bullfighting arenas, combining grace and skill in each performance.

Promising Beginnings

Rui Fernandes made his public debut on February 10, 1991, in his hometown. Since then, his career quickly ascended, marking an important milestone with his appearance in Spain, specifically at the Plaza de Toros de Olivenza in Badajoz, on March 7, 1998. This event marked the beginning of his international recognition in the field of rejoneo.

A Decisive Moment: The Alternative

On August 6, 1998, Fernandes reached a pinnacle in his career by taking the alternativa in Lisbon. In a ceremony filled with tradition and emotion, he was sponsored by Joao Moura, an icon of rejoneo, with Pablo Hermoso de Mendoza as a witness. The bulls from the “Passanha” ranch were the stars of this transcendental event.

Confirmation of His Mastery

The confirmation of his alternativa took place in Madrid on August 18, 2002, where he faced bulls from the Julio de la Puerta ranch. This event solidified his position as a master rejoneador in one of the most demanding arenas in the bullfighting world.

A Unique Style

Rui Fernandes is known for his exceptional equestrian skills, allowing him to perform complex maneuvers with an elegance that seems to defy gravity. His style is fluid and harmonious, characterized by a spectacular display of dexterity and coordination between rider and mount, making him a true dancer in the arena.

Legendary Arenas

Throughout his career, Fernandes has had the honor of performing in some of the most emblematic and challenging bullrings in the world, such as La Maestranza in Seville, Las Ventas in Madrid, La Maestranza in Ronda, the Plaza de Toros de Pamplona, La Malagueta in Málaga, and the arenas of Arles and Nimes in France. In each of these venues, he has left a mark of his personality and art, earning the respect and admiration of fans and critics alike.

Rui Fernandes has not only proven to be an exceptional rejoneador but also an ambassador of the art of rejoneo, bringing this traditional form of bullfighting to new levels of recognition and appreciation. His career continues to be a testament to the dedication, passion, and artistry that define the spirit of rejoneo.