Vuelta organizers defend decision to keep Israeli team in race after protests in Madrid finale Updated 22 mins ago The Spanish Vuelta has defended its decision to keep an Israel-based team in the race despite pro-Palestinian protests. The protests disrupted the three-week-long race, including the final stage in Madrid on Sunday when there were clashes with police. Vuelta race director Javier Guillén said organizers had to follow the International Cycling Union's rules regarding team participation. Spain's government expressed sympathy with the protesters, suggesting the Israeli team should withdraw. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized Spain's Prime Minister for encouraging the protests. Two people were arrested and 22 were injured during the confrontations. Danish rider Jonas V

See Full Page