Vuelta a España Shortens Final Stage Amidst Protest Concerns and Sponsorship Issue
Madrid – Organizers of the Vuelta a España have announced a five-kilometer reduction to the length of Sunday’s concluding stage in Madrid, citing traffic concerns. The revised route eliminates a planned passage through Aravaca, shortening the stage to approximately 159.8 kilometers.
the alteration, initially attributed to avoiding congestion on the A6 highway, has revealed a secondary factor: a last-minute withdrawal of sponsorship. While the identity of the sponsor remains undisclosed, sources within the Vuelta organization confirmed to El País that the decision to reroute followed the loss of a secured financial commitment. This comes as the race faces heightened security measures due to planned protests.
Today’s twentieth stage, a 164.8-kilometer ride from Robledo de Chavela to La Bola del Mundo, will proceed under increased security. Law enforcement is deploying a combined 1,500 officers – 1,100 from the Policía Nacional and 400 from the Guardia Civil - to safeguard cyclists amidst ongoing demonstrations.
The protests stem from the participation of the Israel Premier Tech cycling team, coinciding with continued conflict affecting the Palestinian population. Demonstrators intend to disrupt the race along much of the route, with planned gatherings beginning at 11:00 AM at a gas station on the Valdequemada road leading to Robledo de Chavela. Further protests are scheduled for 1:00 PM in San Lorenzo El Escorial, 3:30 PM in cercedilla, and a convergence of protestors and environmental activists at the Puerto de Navacerrada.
