UCI releases statement on Israel-Vuelta situation... But takes no action

Solidarity and support for the teams affected by the anti-Israel protests at the Vuelta a Espana over the past few days, but no action has been taken. The UCI has issued a statement on what is happening in the Spanish Grand Tour, but it has had no impact on the actual race neither has it made any decision. Israel - Premier Tech will start stage 12, not succumbing to the pressure from the race organizers and ongoing protests.

"The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) firmly condemns the actions that led to the neutralisation of the 11th stage of La Vuelta Ciclista a España. The UCI reiterates the fundamental importance of the political neutrality of sports organisations within the Olympic Movement, as well as the unifying and pacifying role of sport," the press release began. "Major international sporting events embody a spirit of unity and dialogue, transcending differences and divisions".

"In this sense, the UCI reaffirms its commitment to the political neutrality, independence, and autonomy of sport, in accordance with the founding principles of the Olympic Movement. The UCI would also like to reiterate that sport, and cycling in particular, has a role to play in bringing people together and overcoming barriers between them, and should under no circumstances be used as a tool for punishment".

The 11th stage of the race in the Basque Country was always going to be a difficult one for the organization who knew beforehand of organized protests, but it was impossible to ensure safety of the riders at the finish in Bilbao, as in the first passage through the finish line, dozens tried to break through the barriers as the peloton rode by.

The times were neutralized with 3 kilometers to go and with no finish line or timing system - due to the last-minute decision, there was no time to move it, and there was also no stage classification or winner.

There is heavy discourse currently on whether the Israeli team will continue in the Vuelta or not, although neither the UCI or race organizers make the decision to expel it. According to Quique Iglesias of Cadena COPE, the Israeli team has made the decision to stay in the race.

"The UCI expresses its solidarity and support for the teams and their staff as well as the riders, who should be able to practice their profession and pursue their passion in optimal conditions of safety and serenity".