Pro-Palestinian protesters, amounting to more than 100,000 individuals, cause significant disruptions during the concluding stage of a Spanish cycling tournament.
In a historic and unprecedented move, more than 100,000 protesters disrupted the final stage of the Vuelta a España in Madrid, drawing attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The protests targeted the participation of the Israel-Premier Tech professional cycling team, leading to disruptions including blocking the race and throwing barriers at police.
The conflict that sparked the protests began with Hamas's October 7, 2023 cross-border attack that killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. This tragedy has been a source of international concern, with Israel's subsequent bombardment resulting in the death of at least 64,700 Palestinians, according to Gaza health ministry figures that the United Nations considers reliable.
The disruption marked the culmination of ongoing protests throughout the race. Notable figures, such as Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz, a member of Spain's far-left coalition partner, called Israel's actions a genocide and expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Protesters chanted familiar refrains heard at pro-Palestinian demonstrations worldwide, including "It's not a war, it's a genocide" and "no more killing innocent children."
The protesters blocked the race route approximately 56 kilometers from the planned finish line. This decision to abandon the race was celebrated by demonstrators, who filled the air with green and red smoke. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed "pride" in the demonstrations before Sunday's racing began, while Conservative opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijoo of the Popular Party condemned the government's stance, calling the disrupted race an "international embarrassment."
Despite the disruptions, Jonas Vingegaard, the Danish cyclist, was officially crowned champion. Vingegaard expressed disappointment about the protest affecting the traditional celebration of his win. Organizers announced there would be no podium presentation to celebrate the race winners following the disruption.
Meanwhile, in the world of cycling, Portugal's Almeida finished second, and Britain's Tom Pidcock claimed third place, marking career-best grand tour results for both riders. However, the spotlight was undeniably on the political and humanitarian issues that overshadowed the race's final stage.
As the world watches, the hope remains for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, allowing for the celebration of sporting events free from political tension.
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