threats of physical harm reported by director of Israel-Premier Tech - Prime Minister of Israel reveals receipt of death threats from director figure
In the midst of protests and threats, the cycling team Israel-Premier Tech has demonstrated a commendable commitment to the sport of cycling by choosing to continue racing in the Vuelta a España.
The eleventh stage of the race ended in controversy, with protesters voicing their opposition to the Gaza conflict. The ongoing incidents are not exclusive to the eleventh stage, as multiple incidents involving protesters disrupting the race have been reported, including during the team time trial on the fifth stage.
The location of the fifth stage where the incident occurred is not specified, but numerous protesters waving Palestinian flags in the finish area led the race jury to end the stage three kilometers from the finish. As a result, there was no stage winner in the eleventh stage.
Oscar Guerrero, sports director of the team, has reported death threats against the team. Despite these challenges, discussions about Israel-Premier Tech withdrawing from the Vuelta a España have taken place, but the team has no intention of giving up and will continue racing.
In a statement, the team expressed concern for the potential impact of their actions on the cycling community as a whole. They view the Vuelta a España as an important event in the cycling calendar and believe that any decision to withdraw could set a dangerous precedent in the sport.
Guerrero also asked not to "attack the team," emphasising the need for understanding and dialogue in such sensitive situations. The team's decision to continue racing is a significant development in the ongoing situation and shows their resilience in the face of adversity.
The death threats against the team were issued by the Islamist terrorist organization Hamas during their attack from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the already challenging circumstances faced by the team.
Despite the controversies, the Israel-Premier Tech team remains focused on their goal of competing in the Vuelta a España. Their determination to continue racing despite threats and disruptions demonstrates their unwavering commitment to the sport and the values it represents.
