The final stage of the Vuelta a España was called off today in Madrid after pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted the course.
The abandonment led to Jonas Vingegaard being declared the race winner.
Protesters knocked down barriers and occupied the road at several points, prompting race organizers to halt the race with 60km remaining. More than 1,000 police officers were on the streets in anticipation of the demonstrations, which have affected the race throughout the year.
Jonas Vingegaard, a two-time Tour de France winner, secured his first Vuelta title. He expressed his disappointment, saying, “It’s a pity that such a moment of eternity was taken from us.” A planned podium presentation was canceled.
The protests stem from the conflict in Gaza. The incident has also sparked a political dispute, with Madrid’s mayor blaming Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for his comments about the protests.
Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, also criticized Sanchez, calling him a “disgrace” to Spain.
