TOULOUSE – A pro-Palestinian demonstrator was arrested after breaching security during Stage 11 of the Tour de France. The protester ran into the final stretch of the race wearing a shirt with the slogan “Israel out of the Tour” and waving a Palestinian keffiyeh.
The incident occurred just as Norwegian cyclist Jonas Abrahamsen secured a narrow victory over Swiss rider Mauro Schmid. Security officials swiftly intercepted the protester and removed him from the course before he could interfere with the competition.
The protest was aimed at the participation of the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team, a squad registered in Israel but composed of international riders. Although no Israeli cyclist is part of this year’s lineup, the team’s presence has stirred criticism due to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
The demonstration reflects the growing number of protests around the world condemning Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties since the escalation of hostilities in October 2023.
Race organizers have reaffirmed their commitment to safety and neutrality in sporting events. They condemned the disruption but emphasized the importance of maintaining public order, particularly at globally televised events such as the Tour de France
