Race continues from stage 12 as scheduled, a day after pro-Palestine demonstrations disrupted the competition in Bilbao

In the ongoing Vuelta a España, the 11th stage presented a challenging and anxious moment for Oscar Guerrero, sports director of Israel-PremierTech. Pro-Palestine protests disrupted the race, with approximately 100 supporters present, chanting for the expulsion of Israel-PremierTech from the competition.

The finish of stage 11 was particularly nerve-wracking for Guerrero. In response, he deliberately diverted the team car off route due to fears of aggression. The riders, however, experienced some insulting gestures but no major incidents occurred.

Despite the tension, Israel-PremierTech decided to continue participating in the Vuelta. Guerrero expressed understanding for teams that might prefer their absence, but emphasized the impact on the team's riders, their families, and staff if they were to withdraw. He also reiterated the team's comments about wanting peaceful protests.

The race's start was moved 3km from the finish to ensure safety, and police kept a close watch on the roads. Surprisingly, the atmosphere seemed relatively calm compared to the day before, with other teams and riders expressing a desire to just race their bikes.

The protests in Bilbao had neutralized the race the day before, but Israel-PremierTech resumed participation after the disrupted stages. The exact location for the next stage start was not specified, but the 20th stage took place after the protests had occurred in various places, including Bilbao.

With Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike) remaining the race leader in red, Israel-PremierTech's participation in the Vuelta is crucial for the employment of approximately 180 people. Withdrawing from the race could potentially lead to Israel-PremierTech facing aggression in every race, potentially ending the team.

The Vuelta a Espana stage 12 started from Laredo on Thursday, and the opening phase of racing has continued without interruption. The riders still have 130km to go until they reach the finish in Los Corrales de Buelna.

Israel-PremierTech released a statement confirming they would not pull out due to a 'Dangerous precedent'. The team remains resolute in their commitment to the Vuelta, demonstrating a strong spirit in the face of adversity. The race continues, and the future of Israel-PremierTech in the competition hangs in the balance.

Race continues from stage 12 as scheduled, a day after pro-Palestine demonstrations disrupted the competition in Bilbao