"I understand why they're protesting. I just wish they’d done it somewhere else — I won’t hide that" - Jonas Vingegaard praises Spanish police during Vuelta

In a Vuelta a Espana increasingly defined not only by its brutal parcours but by repeated interruptions from anti-Israel demonstrators targeting Israel - Premier Tech’s involvement, Jonas Vingegaard has struck a notably balanced tone — acknowledging the legitimacy of the protesters' concerns, while defending the integrity of the race and praising the swift action of organisers and police.

The 2025 edition of La Vuelta has been marred by multiple incidents of protest-related disruption, with Stage 20 becoming the latest to experience a blockade that temporarily forced the peloton to reroute. While no riders were harmed and the stage ultimately unfolded without further incident, the repeated protests have left their mark on what should have been a showcase of late-season Grand Tour racing.

Speaking to Danish outlet Feltet after securing his overall victory, Vingegaard offered a composed reflection on the situation: “I’ve said that I understand what’s going on and why they’re protesting. I just wish they’d done it somewhere else — I won’t hide that — so that we could race properly. But they’re doing it for a reason. They’ve found a platform here that they haven’t been able to find elsewhere.”

It’s a rare moment of public commentary from a rider known more for his performance on the bike than for wading into political waters. Still, Vingegaard’s remarks reveal a rider aware of the wider context of the race — and one who recognises the delicate balance between free expression and sporting fairness.

The protests, driven by ongoing opposition to the Israel - Premier Tech team, have ranged from roadside banners to coordinated human blockades. While organisers have managed to avoid outright cancellations, several stages have required last-minute rerouting or neutralisations.

Despite the turmoil, Vingegaard was quick to praise race officials and Spanish police for their handling of the disruptions. “We had to take a small detour today, but it wasn’t dangerous. The organisation and the police had it well under control — and I feel like they’ve been on top of things throughout the race.”

Notably, he hasn’t shied away from speaking out before. Earlier in the race, he described the protests as “understandable but misplaced,” drawing attention for his willingness to comment at all on such a polarising issue. One sports media analyst called his statements “measured and brave” — rare qualities in the often politically cautious world of professional cycling.

Whether the disruptions will prompt wider discussions within the sport about protest protocols and sponsorship politics remains to be seen. For now, the race has crowned a worthy winner — and one who, even amidst controversy, has managed to remain both candid and composed.

As the dust settles on a chaotic Vuelta, Jonas Vingegaard departs not just with the red jersey, but with the respect of many for how he handled the unpredictable theatre that unfolded around him.