Spain has joined calls to bar Israel from international sports, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez urging global sporting bodies to suspend its representation over the Gaza crisis, drawing comparisons to Russia’s ban after invading Ukraine.
Addressing his party, Sánchez said Israel should not be allowed to “whitewash its image” through sports. His comments followed massive pro-Palestinian protests in Madrid, where nearly 100,000 demonstrators led to the cancellation of the final stage of the Vuelta a España cycling race involving an Israeli team.
Spanish ministers backed his stance, with Digital Transformation Minister Óscar López calling Israel’s actions “genocide” and describing public mobilization as a moral duty. The move follows Madrid’s recognition of Palestine and its arms embargo on Israel, amid wider EU debates over trade ties.
While Israel faces protests at global sporting events, no governing body has imposed formal bans, unlike the restrictions placed on Russia. Analysts say Spain’s demand could mark a turning point, potentially isolating Israel from major competitions if adopted
In a very bold statement against Israel Spain Says Netanyahu Not ‘Fit to Lecture Others’
