Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on September 15, addressed concerns regarding the participation of Israeli and Russian entities in international sports events held within Spain. This statement came amidst escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Shortly thereafter, a major sporting event in Spain faced significant disruptions.
Prime Minister Sanchez specifically voiced apprehension over violent protests orchestrated by Palestinian supporters in Madrid. These demonstrations severely impacted the final stages of La Vuelta, Spain’s prestigious multi-stage cycling race. The protests became so intense that they ultimately forced the temporary cessation and partial dispersal of the event midway through its initial segment.
During the race, Palestinian protesters explicitly targeted riders from the Israel-Premier Tech team. Demonstrators actively blocked roads, preventing the progress of the cyclists, and were reported to have placed metal obstacles on the race route. Despite the substantial presence of approximately 1,000 Spanish police officers, who attempted to contain the situation and prevent clashes, the disruptions continued for some time.
Despite the significant interruptions, the affected stage of La Vuelta eventually concluded, with Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard ultimately emerging as the winner.
Spanish authorities later confirmed that the protesters were advocating for Palestine, with an estimated 100,000 individuals reportedly participating in marches across the streets of Madrid. Their actions during the cycling race were reportedly aimed at Israeli-Canadian billionaire Sylvan Adams, a prominent real estate developer who also owns the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. Adams is perceived by the protesters as being directly involved in Israel’s actions concerning Palestinians in Gaza. During the confrontations that ensued between Spanish authorities and the Palestinian supporters, police reported that two protesters were arrested.
