The chief organizer of the Tour de France emphasized the major security measures on the Tour of France after the massive propalestinic protests at the Vuelta á España. However, there would be “vulnerability,” said Christian Prudhomme, at a book presentation in Berlin.
“We are susceptible, we know that,” he added to security. The 64-year-old referred to 28,000 police officers, the National Guard and other special forces who are in use to protect the races.
Tour start 2026 in Spain
In 2026 the Tour de France in Barcelona started with a team time trial. Then two stages are planned in Spain. Prudhomme mentioned in the panel discussion in the French embassy in Berlin at first not possible further measures in these races or the entire tour 2026.
The tour of the Spain was overshadowed by violent demonstrations against the war of Israel in the Gaza Strip and the participation of Team Israel Prime Minister Tech. Barriers were torn down, drivers and security forces were attacked. The last stage had to be canceled, there were several injured security forces.
Road cycling is “subject to the heights and depths of life,” said Prudhomme. Even in the 20s of the past century, there have already been attacks by spectators on the tour. The events in Spain differed in the motivation of the demonstrators. In contrast to previous protests on the route, they “no personal motives”, said Prudhomme.