"The intense heat compelled prompt action during the Gaza demonstrations, causing a stir during the Vuelta"
The 11th stage of the Tour of Spain, Vuelta 2023, was marked by a series of incidents involving the Israel-Premier Tech team. On September 3rd, race director Kiko Garcia had anticipated potential pro-Palestine protests in Bilbao-Bilbao.
The day of the 11th stage saw the Israeli team surrounded by police in the car park. A time check point was established under the three-kilometer arch to ensure the show continued for cycling fans in the Basque Country. A policeman warned the staff of Israel-Premier Tech that protesters were coming and they needed to leave quickly.
As the race neared the finish line, Tom Pidcock and Jonas Vingegaard were stopped 3 kilometers from the finish. Another incident occurred at the Alto del Vivero, 27 kilometers from the finish, but was quickly controlled. At the finish line, protesters tried to knock down barriers, but were held up by the quick reaction of those nearby (police, organization...).
Despite these incidents, the Israel-Premier Tech team continued to participate in the Vuelta 2023. The team had ruled out withdrawing from the race, emphasizing their commitment to continue competing amidst security concerns and threats. Sylvan Adams, the businessman owner of Israel-Premier Tech, was furious about the events of the 11th stage. The Briton, Tom Pidcock, expressed his disappointment about the situation.
The pro-Palestine movement had already disrupted the Israeli team during the team time trial (5th stage) and attempted intrusion on Tuesday (10th stage). On Tuesday evening, WhatsApp groups of Vuelta participants discussed security concerns, with some suggesting Israel-Premier Tech withdrawal and others refusing it.
In response, the UCI reminded the importance of political neutrality in sports organizations and expressed support for teams to practice their profession in optimal security and serenity conditions. Kiko Garcia suggested the team's withdrawal after the 11th stage. However, the Israel-Premier Tech team's blue bus, without any country markings, left the area at 17:58, indicating their decision to stay and compete.
Four riders were missing from Israel-Premier Tech after the incident. The entire peloton returned to the paddock after the incident. Palestinian flags were a visible sign of the movement's magnitude along the roads. On Wednesday morning, a common decision was made that if there was another incident, everyone would dismount.
The pro-Palestine movement's disruptions have cast a shadow over the Vuelta 2023, but the Israel-Premier Tech team's resilience and commitment to competition have shone through. The race continues, and the team remains undeterred in their pursuit of victory.
