Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for Israel and Russia to be banned from international sporting competitions until “barbaric acts” in Gaza and Ukraine end, escalating tensions between Spain and Israel after pro-Palestinian protests disrupted the final stage of the Vuelta a España cycling race in Madrid on Sunday .
Sánchez, leader of Spain’s Socialist Party, condemned the violent protests that forced the cancellation of the race’s finale but expressed admiration for Spaniards mobilizing “against injustice” . He criticized what he called a “double standard” in sports, questioning why Israel remains allowed to compete internationally despite its military campaign in Gaza, while Russia was expelled after invading Ukraine in 2022 . “Until the barbarity ends, neither Russia nor Israel should be in any international competition,” Sánchez stated .
The protests, organized by pro-Palestinian activists, targeted the participation of the Israeli cycling team Israel Premier Tech in the Vuelta. Demonstrators threw barriers onto the road, clashed with police, and occupied parts of the route, including Madrid’s Gran Vía avenue. Spanish authorities reported 22 injuries and two arrests after confrontations involving over 1,500 police officers deployed to secure the event . The chaos forced race organizers to cancel the final stage 60 kilometers from the finish line, depriving Danish winner Jonas Vingegaard of a traditional podium ceremony .
Israeli officials reacted furiously to Sánchez’s remarks. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar labeled Sánchez an “antisemite and a liar” and accused him of inciting the protests . “Did Israel invade Gaza on Oct. 7th, or did the Hamas terror state invade Israel and commit the worst massacre against the Jews since the Holocaust?” Sa’ar wrote on social media platform X . Madrid’s conservative mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, also criticized Sánchez, calling the events a “sad day” for the city .
The International Cycling Union (UCI) condemned the protests and the Spanish government’s support for the demonstrations, warning that the chaos “calls into question Spain’s ability to host major international sporting events” . The UCI emphasized that such actions contradict Olympic values of “unity, mutual respect, and peace” .
The incident reflects growing diplomatic isolation for Israel as European nations, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, take stronger stances against its actions in Gaza. Spain recently canceled a $825 million military contract with Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems and imposed an arms embargo on Israel . Sánchez’s government has also pledged increased humanitarian aid for Gaza and supported recognition of a Palestinian state .
Despite the backlash, Sánchez reiterated his support for peaceful protests against “genocide” in Gaza, aligning with Spanish public opinion: a recent poll indicated 82% of Spaniards believe Israel is committing genocide in the territory .
The disruption of the Vuelta raises concerns about future sporting events in Spain, including the 2026 Tour de France, set to begin in Barcelona. Race director Javier Guillén urged international bodies to address the issue, stating, “After this Vuelta, cycling will need to have internal discussions to find solutions” .
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