- September 4, 2025
- 10:28 pm
- Brief news
The Israeli cycling team Israel Premier Tech has decided to continue participating in the Vuelta 2025, despite threats from pro-Palestinian protesters.
This was reported by the team’s press service. The statement claims that “any other actions would create a dangerous precedent in cycling, both for Israel Premier Tech and for other teams.” Representatives clarified that they respect the right to protest, provided it is peaceful and does not pose a threat to the safety of race participants. They also expressed gratitude to the organizers and police for their efforts to ensure a safe environment.
Protests during the race
During the Vuelta 2025, protests were actively held, including the largest one on September 3 during the 11th stage in Bilbao. As a result, the stage was neutralized three kilometers before the finish due to the threat to the safety of the riders.
Some teams, such as Visma Lease a Bike, Decathlon Ag2r, and EF Education, advocated for the temporary suspension of Israel Premier Tech from the competition, pointing to the potential danger for the entire group of riders. Visma Lease a Bike even noted that they might withdraw from the race if Israel Premier Tech participated in the 11th stage.
Pressure on the team
After the stage ended, efforts to pressure Israel Premier Tech were also undertaken by the race organizers. Kiko Garcia, the technical director of the Vuelta, commented on the situation: “I cannot guarantee the further participation of Israel Premier Tech, as it is not within my competence. We warned about this even before the race. Yesterday, I spoke with the team manager for several hours to understand their perception of the increased pressure.”
Situation in the general classification
Currently, the American rider of the Israeli team is in the last position in the top 10 of the Vuelta’s general classification, while Briton Ethan Vernon occupies second place in the sprinter classification.
Read more at – NANews Israel News