The Tour of Spain ended in confusion on Sunday. Several stages were disrupted by pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including the last one, which was stopped 56 kilometers from the finish. The International Cycling Union reacted on Monday to condemn these disturbances.
« The Vuelta was disrupted almost every day by militant actions: intrusions of individuals into the peloton, throwing of urine and endangering runners having harmed their physical integrity, some having fallen, suffered injuries and been forced to abandon the event. (…) The repeated acts which affected a significant number of stages constitute a serious violation of the Olympic Charter and the fundamental principles of sport ", asserts the UCI in a statement.
The authority is concerned about " Spain's ability to host major international sporting events while ensuring they take place in good safety conditions and in accordance with the principles of the Olympic Charter "As its annual Congress approaches, " which will be attended by representatives of the Palestinian, Israeli, Russian and Ukrainian National Federations » the UCI reaffirms " his constant call for dialogue and peace », recalling that Sport must unite, never divide ».
