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Protests Remain Peaceful Following Vuelta-Scandal: Triumph over Traitors

Protests Occur After Vuelta Controversy: Victory Secured Through Autonomous Ride

Following the Vuelta-Scandal: Demonstrations of Peace and Triumph over AWOL Soldiers
Following the Vuelta-Scandal: Demonstrations of Peace and Triumph over AWOL Soldiers

Following the Vuelta Controversy: Tranquil Demonstrations and Lone Champion - Protests Remain Peaceful Following Vuelta-Scandal: Triumph over Traitors

The Israel-Premier Tech team has been a focal point of protests during the Vuelta a España, but they have chosen to continue participating in the race. The 12th stage, a 144.9 km ride from Laredo to Los Corrales de Buelna, passed without major incident for the team.

Juan Ayuso, a Spaniard from the UAE Team, emerged victorious in the 12th stage, outsprinting his compatriot Javier Romo to secure the win. This was Ayuso's first stage victory in the Vuelta a España.

The safety concerns on the 11th stage were due to numerous protesters in the finish area, causing the stage to be abandoned three kilometers from the finish in Bilbao. However, the protesters on the 12th stage were more subdued, with Palestinian flags visible on the finishing straight but no major disruptions reported.

Sport director Óscar Guerrero of the Israel-Premier Tech team has appealed for peaceful protests, acknowledging the team's desire to focus on the sport rather than becoming a target at every race. The team has faced death threats during the race due to the Gaza conflict, but they have not withdrawn from the Vuelta a España.

The Israel-Premier Tech team has not been involved in any major disruptions during the 12th stage, a relief for the team after the incidents on the fifth stage, where protesters stopped the team during the team time trial.

Despite the ongoing protests, the Israel-Premier Tech team is determined to see the race through. They fear that withdrawing from the race could lead to their demise, as it may be perceived as a concession to the protesters.

Meanwhile, Team Visma | Lease a Bike, with Jonas Vingegaard, a top favourite, is participating fully in the race. However, they have not yet decided whether they will continue participating in the Vuelta a España 2025.

Juan Ayuso's victory in the 12th stage marks a significant milestone in his career, coming amidst the challenges faced by the Israel-Premier Tech team during the race. As the Vuelta a España continues, all eyes will be on the teams and riders as they navigate the remaining stages.

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