"Unfortunate occurrence": Protests by Palestinians lead to disorder at Spanish tourist attractions
The 11th stage of the Vuelta a España ended in unexpected chaos as pro-Palestinian protests disrupted the race, leading to the cancellation of the obligatory podium ceremony and an early end to the stage.
The protests began during the neutral phase before the official start, with a large group of activists waving Palestinian flags and pushing onto the course. Police had to intervene to remove them from the road.
As the race progressed, the protests continued, causing a crash during the 12th stage on Tuesday. Later, activists stepped onto the road with a large banner at one of the climbs. The safety of the riders was deemed at risk, leading to time gaps being taken three kilometers before the finish.
Despite the disruptions, Danish rider Jonas Vingegaard, who was in the lead, extended his lead in the fight for the red jersey. Vingegaard expressed his disappointment about the early end of the stage, as his son was having a birthday.
The protests have primarily targeted Team Israel-Premier Tech. The 11th stage ended without an official winner due to safety concerns, and no stage victory was awarded.
Further heavy protests are expected during the upcoming mountain stages in the Basque Country. The Angliru mountain finish on Friday could make the race exciting again, but protests might prevent it.
The 12th stage on Thursday, over 144.9 kilometers from Laredo to Los Corrales de Buelna, is not expected to have major attacks from the favorites. The first-category climb around 20 kilometers from the finish could make the race exciting.
The 11th stage of the 2025 Vuelta a España had no winner due to protests. The race time was taken 3 km before the finish in Bilbao, and no stage victory was awarded after pro-Palestinian demonstrators disrupted the course.
The recurring protests during the Vuelta a España have been potentially dangerous, causing disruptions and putting the safety of the riders at risk. As the race continues, organisers and security forces will need to ensure the safety of the riders and maintain the integrity of the competition.
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