(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
UCI Condemns Political Protests at 2025 Vuelta a España, Questions Spain’s Ability to Host Sporting Events
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has strongly criticized the Spanish government after pro-Palestinian protests disrupted the 2025 Vuelta a España, raising concerns over the safety and independence of major sporting events in Spain.
The year’s final grand tour, which concluded in Madrid, faced repeated interruptions from large demonstrations targeting Israel Premier-Tech, a team owned by a Canadian-Israeli businessman. The protests escalated into wider demonstrations over Israel’s actions in Gaza, blocking roads, causing crashes, and forcing the cancellation or shortening of multiple stages, including the final stage in Madrid.
The UCI condemned the incidents, describing them as “militant actions endangering riders” and thanked race organizers for their professional handling of the disruptions. The governing body also criticized Spanish officials, including Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, for expressing support for the protesters. The statement said such actions violate Olympic principles and exploit sport for political purposes, undermining its role as a unifying and peaceful activity.
“The repeated acts that affected a significant number of stages constitute a serious violation of the Olympic Charter and the fundamental principles of sport,” the UCI said, questioning Spain’s ability to host major international events safely.
The UCI also praised law enforcement and the Vuelta organizers for their resilience and commitment to keeping the race running, while congratulating Jonas Vingegaard on his victory.
The statement comes ahead of major upcoming events, including the 2026 Tour de France in Barcelona and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Spain will co-host with Portugal and Morocco.
Race organizer Javier Guillen added: “It’s fine for people to make statements, but we demand respect for the race. What happened yesterday was unacceptable and should not be repeated.”
