The constant calls for a boycott and even the applause from the Prime Minister on Sunday morning for the pro-Palestinian protests during the Vuelta a España culminated in the historic cancellation of the last stage in Madrid after a group of protesters blocked the peloton with 60 kilometres to go and, afterwards, a crowd completely invaded Paseo de la Castellana, where violent clashes with security forces took place.

The stage, starting in Alalpardo, had gone more or less normally (with some improvised cuts and changes along the way for safety reasons). The typical celebrations of this day followed, along with toasts to the winners and photos for posterity. But once the peloton entered the streets of the Spanish capital, everything quickly went up in smoke.

With less than 60 kilometers to go, a group carrying a huge banner supporting the Palestinian people interrupted the riders, blocking their path. Some, like Frenchman Thibaut Guernalec of Arkea, even had to struggle to make progress. Soon, the peloton dismounted. It was diverted toward the Royal Palace Gardens, and after a few minutes of suspense, the organizers canceled the stage.

Shortly afterward, he decided that there would also be no traditional awards ceremony on the podium in Plaza de Cibeles. One of the riders from Israel Premier Tech, the team that was the target of all the protesters' anger, was supposed to be one of the stars. American Matthew Riccitello was named the best young rider of the Vuelta a España.

With this Sunday's stage, there have been three stages that couldn't run normally. In Bilbao, where they couldn't reach the finish line and a finish was improvised with three kilometers remaining and no winner. And in Castro de Herville, where the race ended with eight kilometers remaining, with Egan Bernal as the winner.