Egan Bernal Wins Shortened Vuelta Stage 16 Amid Pro-Palestinian Protests

Stage 16 of the Vuelta a Espana was shortened by eight kilometers due to a large pro-Palestinian protest near the finish line, disrupting the race and forcing organizers to take times early. Egan Bernal of Ineos Grenadiers won the curtailed stage, marking his first grand tour victory since his severe crash in 2022, while Jonas Vingegaard retained the overall race lead. The incident was part of ongoing disruptions targeting the Israel-Premier Tech team, owned by Israeli-Canadian Sylvan Adams, amid heightened tensions following the Israeli military campaign in Gaza. Spanish rider Javier Romo abandoned the race due to injuries and mental strain after a crash caused by a protester during the previous stage. The protest also caused logistical issues such as a tree blocking the road, which was cleared before the riders arrived, and resulted in a surreal, quiet finish with few spectators. Bernal's victory and his progress up the general classification highlight his impressive comeback, while the race continues under the shadow of political demonstrations.