Bytager the publication ""We will return to the Vuelta 2026 despite the hatred and violence," assures the communications director of Israel Premier Tech on i24NEWS"
During his appearance on Prime on i24NEWS last night, Zadok Yehezkeli, communications director at Israel Premier Tech, discussed the serious incidents that marred the Vuelta 2025.
On Sunday, September 14, the 21st and final stage of the race in Madrid was interrupted 56 km from the finish due to the massive intrusion of pro-Palestinian protesters onto the course. The 11th and 16th stages had already been neutralized for the same reasons. According to Yehezkeli, these disruptions, which began as soon as the race began, were " perfectly organized and coordinated ", an unprecedented situation. In Bilbao in particular, thousands of protesters targeted the team led by Israeli-Canadian billionaire Sylvan Adams and registered in Israel, creating extreme tensions and endangering the safety of the riders.
« Some runners, especially foreigners, were in shock. They had nothing to do with this conflict, yet they were targeted. ", Yehezkeli explained. Faced with the escalation of violence, a Spanish official even advised the team to withdraw to ensure their safety.
Despite these pressures, Israel Premier Tech remains inflexible. We will be back next year. We are entitled to participate in all competitions, and we hope that safety measures will be put in place to protect all teams and preserve the spirit of this sport. ", Yehezkeli said with determination, affirming the team's desire to continue to shine on the international cycling scene.
As a reminder, only one Israeli rider was part of the team during this Vuelta 2025.
The International Cycling Union (UCI) also reacted firmly in an official press release published on September 15. The UCI expresses its " total disapproval and deep concern " in the face of these events. She strongly condemns the exploitation of sport for political ends, particularly by governments, and judges " unacceptable and counterproductive "that cycling is diverted from its universal mission of peace and unity. The UCI particularly regrets the statements of the Spanish government, which expressed its admiration for the protesters, and questions Spain's ability to host major sporting events under these conditions.
It reaffirms the autonomy of sport and its role in peacemaking, emphasizing that dedicated platforms exist for political disputes. Furthermore, the UCI commends the exemplary work of the Spanish law enforcement agencies and the Vuelta organizers for their management in a tense context, and congratulates the overall winner, Jonas Vingegaard, for his performance despite the circumstances.
