Protests against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza have disrupted Spain’s Vuelta cycling race, drawing international attention and sparking a diplomatic dispute between Madrid and Tel Aviv.

Hundreds of demonstrators, waving Palestinian flags, gathered along the race route, including in Rosana Prieto’s small village in northwestern Spain, aiming to broadcast their message to global television audiences. During one incident, a protester’s proximity to the cyclists caused a crash, though no riders from the Israeli-owned team, Israel Premier Tech, were injured. Over the past 10 days, five stages have been interrupted or shortened, and more than 20 protesters detained.

Spain’s government has tacitly endorsed the demonstrations. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” while Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares supports expelling the Israeli team from the race. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría, who also oversees sports, said neutrality was impossible in the face of widespread death and destruction.

The protests have heightened tensions with Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the Spanish measures as “antisemitic” and a “blatant genocidal threat.” Meanwhile, Spanish activists are sending humanitarian aid by ship to Gaza, aiming to breach Israel’s naval blockade.

The unrest has affected riders and teams. Cyclists voted to quit if safety risks persisted, though Israel Premier Tech has continued competing while removing its team name from uniforms to reduce attention. Some riders reported threats from protesters, including flagpole strikes and tacks on the course.

Political analysts say the Vuelta protests reflect growing public anger over Spain’s stance on Gaza, with Sánchez leveraging grassroots movements to strengthen Spain’s opposition to Israel. Authorities plan a heavy security presence, including 1,500 police officers, for the race’s final stage in Madrid this Sunday.