Madrid, Sep 15 (AP) Pro-Palestinian demonstrators brought chaos to the closing stage of the Spanish Vuelta, hurling barriers onto the racecourse and clashing with police, culminating the three-week race in disarray in Madrid. Authorities reported the arrest of two individuals and 22 sustained minor injuries, stemming from confrontations between law enforcement and protesters near the city center finish line on Sunday. Organizers were forced to abandon the stage with approximately 50 kilometers remaining due to protesters disrupting the race by breaking through police barriers to hinder the pathway. They were expressing opposition to the involvement of the Israeli team, Israel Premier Tech. A representative from the central government for the Madrid region noted that an estimated 100,000 individuals were present on the streets during these protests. “We regret the events that unfolded during the final stage of La Vuelta 25,” expressed the Spanish Vuelta organizers in a statement late Sunday. “Despite our utmost efforts, concluding the stage as planned became impossible due to the unfortunate incidents that transpired in Madrid.” Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard, who was leading the overall standings heading into the final stage, was declared the Vuelta winner. However, the traditional podium ceremony was canceled. “It's a pity that such a moment of eternity was taken from us,” voiced Vingegaard. "Everyone has the right to protest, but it should not be in a manner that influences or endangers our race.” The teams reportedly arranged a private podium ceremony afterward for the riders to celebrate. This edition of the Vuelta turned into a diplomatic struggle, with pro-Palestinian activists interrupting multiple stages and demanding the expulsion of Israeli Premier Tech from the race. In one particular incident, a protester carrying a Palestinian flag attempted to enter the raceway ahead of the riders, causing a crash that involved two cyclists. Spain's left-wing government displayed sympathy towards the protesters, suggesting that Israeli Premier Tech should withdraw from the competition. Although the team removed its name from their uniforms, they persisted in the race until its conclusion. On Sunday, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, accusing him of encouraging the protesters. Madrid's conservative mayor, Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida, also criticized Sanchez, labeling Sunday's events a sad day for the capital. (AP) SKS SKS
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