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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for the same international sporting sanctions applied to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine to be extended to Israel due to its actions in Gaza.
Sanchez held a meeting with Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) lawmakers in the Spanish Parliament following the interruption of the final stage of the La Vuelta cycling race on Sept. 14 in Madrid. The stage was cut short due to Israel-related protests.
While condemning some violent acts during the demonstrations, Sanchez expressed pride in the peaceful protesters who interrupted the event to oppose Israel’s participation. He emphasized that Israel should not be allowed to take part in any international sports competition until what he called “barbarity ends.”
“Neither Russia nor Israel should participate in any competition until barbarity ceases,” Sanchez said. He also urged sports organizers to evaluate whether it is ethical for Israel to continue participating in international competitions. “After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it was excluded from sports. Why is Israel not excluded after its occupation of Gaza? The stance of the Spanish government is clear and widely supported by citizens,” he added.
Spanish Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun, also a spokesperson for the Sumar coalition, stated that Spain should not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to join. Speaking to Spanish public broadcaster RNE, Urtasun noted that countries such as Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have threatened to withdraw if Israel participates.
Urtasun linked the La Vuelta protests to cultural accountability, saying, “Cultural and sporting activities should not justify genocide. They should not normalize crimes against humanity.” He also criticized Spain’s main opposition, the conservative People’s Party (PP), for showing inconsistency in foreign policy. “PP showed no objection when Russia was excluded, yet they have no stance against Israel,” he said.
The number of countries indicating they may boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel participates is increasing. Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands have explicitly stated they will not compete if Israel joins. Iceland, Belgium, and Spain have signaled similar intentions, raising pressure on organizers to reconsider Israel’s inclusion.
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