Vuelta a Espana in danger? Rumours suggest Madrid finale may be cancelled amid protests

The Vuelta a España is heading into its decisive final week under a cloud of uncertainty, with the race increasingly overshadowed by pro-Palestinian protests. According to L’Équipe, organisers have even suggested that the riders of Israel – Premier Tech consider leaving the race voluntarily in an attempt to calm tensions. The request comes after a second week marked by repeated and escalating disruptions that have affected both riders and spectators, and has seen cycling thrust into the political landscape.

Stage 11 was neutralised after demonstrators blocked the route, stage 13 on the Angliru was interrupted by protest activity, and Sunday’s stage 15 nearly saw disaster when a protester ran onto the course, startling the peloton and causing Javier Romo to crash. While the Spanish rider was able to remount and finish, the incident underscored the seriousness of the situation.

Spain’s recognition of the Palestinian state in May 2024 has made the Vuelta an especially visible stage for pro-Palestinian groups, and Israel–Premier Tech has become the symbolic target of the protests. The team has already removed “Israel” from its branding on cars and equipment, but the demonstrations have continued, ranging from roadside chants of “murderers” to direct interventions in the race.

The greatest concern now centers on the final stage in Madrid next Sunday. Traditionally a parade stage for the overall winner, its sporting significance is limited, but the symbolic weight of finishing in the Spanish capital is considerable. With the possibility of large-scale protests in Madrid, questions are being raised among teams and observers about whether the stage can proceed safely.

Race management insists that the Vuelta will conclude in Madrid as planned. Yet the lingering unease means that, even as Jonas Vingegaard and João Almeida battle for the red jersey, much of the conversation revolves around what might happen off the bike in the streets of the capital. This will be a situation to keep an eye on in week 3.