“Sport cannot and should not remain on the sidelines” – Spanish Minister on Vuelta a Espana protests

The Spanish Minister of Education, Vocational Training and Sports, Pilar Alegría, spoke on Cadena Ser’s El Larguero about the growing tension between the Vuelta a España and pro-Palestinian protests. In her interview, Alegría made clear that she supports the demonstrations but emphasised the importance of allowing the race to continue to Madrid. She also pointed out that similar issues could arise in other sports, particularly basketball’s Euroleague, in the months ahead. The minister balanced her backing of peaceful protest with a call for safety and responsibility around major international competitions.

On the subject of the Vuelta, Alegría said: "I consider it fundamental that the Vuelta a España can be held, just as other major international events have been held. It would be bad news if a competition of this magnitude had to be suspended. What we are seeing these days with the demonstrations, in my opinion, is understandable. Spanish society cannot and should not remain neutral in the face of what is happening in Gaza. Nor can sport turn its back on the reality that surrounds it."

Turning to Israel’s participation in sport, she noted the parallels with past exclusions. "This problem with the Tour of Spain will not end here. The Euroleague basketball tournament will start soon, where we know that Russian clubs will not be present. However, others, such as Maccabi, will be participating? I would like to see the same measure applied as in 2022 with Russia, but now with Israel. Sport cannot look the other way when it comes to defending such essential principles."

Alegría was also asked about whether the Spanish government has sought to influence decisions around the protests or participation of teams. She dismissed that idea: "There has been no pressure of any kind, because the decision to allow or not the participation of that team does not correspond to this government."

On security and the demonstrations, she expressed both confidence and caution. "I am confident that the Vuelta a España can finish without incident. And listeners know it well: that decision does not depend on this minister or the government, but on the race organizers. The measure of shortening Thursday's stage has already been taken and, for our part, what corresponds to us is to guarantee both the safety of the riders and fans and the right of the latter to demonstrate."

While recognising the legitimacy of peaceful protest, Alegría was unequivocal about violence. "Condemning and rejecting any violent act in a sporting competition is the normal thing to do. How could we not do it? It is obvious. However, the citizens who demonstrate peacefully, and who have the right to do so, are expressing the feelings of the majority of Spanish society. What would really worry me is if there were no such response. Sport cannot and should not remain on the sidelines."