Spain’s PM calls for Israel to be banned from sports events after Gaza protests force end to Vuelta race

Speaking after Gaza protesters forced early end to cycle race, Pedro Sanchez says Israel should not be allowed to use sports to whitewash' its barbarism'

Spain's prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, has called for Israel to be barred from international sports competitions for as long as its barbarism" in Gaza continues, saying the country should not be allowed to use high-profile events to whitewash" its offensive.

Speaking a day after pro-Palestinian demonstrators forced a premature end to the Vuelta a Espana cycle race amid chaotic scenes and clashes with police, Sanchez said he had a deep admiration" for all those who had protested peacefully against the participation of the Israel-Premier Tech team.