ISLAMABAD: Pro-Palestinian protests in Madrid, Spain, forced the cancellation of the Vuelta a España cycling race’s final stage on Sunday.
Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard was declared overall winner after protesters blocked the race route and clashed with police.
Protesters disrupt Madrid finish
Thousands of protesters opposing the participation of the Israeli cycling team gathered along the final race route in central Madrid. They overturned barriers while chanting slogans such as “They will not pass.”
The local police responded with tear gas and baton charges as they tried to clear the route. Following multiple stoppages and rising unrest, race organisers confirmed the final stage was cancelled for security reasons, with no podium ceremony held.
This marked the first time since 1978 that a Grand Tour cycling race was halted on its last day due to political protests. Earlier stages had also been affected by protests related to Israel’s military siege of Gaza.
Reactions
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez publicly praised the protesters, commending the Spanish people for mobilising “for just causes like Palestine.” His comments drew sharp criticism from Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who called the Spanish government “a disgrace” for "inciting" the protestors.
Meanwhile, Madrid’s mayor blamed Sánchez for the violence and unrest. A Spanish far-right party leader condemned the government for encouraging street violence.
Security forces deployed over 1,000 officers—the largest presence since Madrid hosted the NATO summit three years prior.
The Israeli cycling team had removed its name from jerseys during the race due to safety concerns. Several riders voiced the possibility of withdrawing amid safety fears.
Israeli siege of Gaza
The protests were sparked by outrage over Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, which local sources say have resulted in over 64,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023.
