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Riccitello’s achievement came despite repeated disruptions by anti-Israel protesters targeting the race.
By Shula Rosen
Matthew Riccitello of the Israel—Premier Tech cycling team has been crowned Best Young Rider of the Vuelta a España, becoming the first member of the Israeli squad to win the distinction.
The 23-year-old American earned the honor after a strong performance on the final summit of Stage 20, where he placed sixth.
His consistent results secured him fifth overall in the prestigious three-week race. He will receive the white jersey on the podium later Sunday.
Riccitello’s achievement came despite repeated disruptions by anti-Israel protesters targeting the race.
On Saturday, a large group entered the road with 18 kilometers remaining, temporarily halting the stage.
Authorities said at least six of the last ten stages have been interrupted, with more than 20 demonstrators detained.
The Vuelta a España, one of cycling’s three Grand Tours, featured more than 180 riders covering approximately 3,100 kilometers, or about 1,900 miles, across Spain.
This year’s edition has been marked by heightened tensions surrounding Israel’s participation, drawing attention both to the riders’ performance and to the political backdrop.
In response to the demonstrations, the Israel—Premier Tech team last week swapped its standard jersey for a simplified monogrammed kit displaying only the team logo.
The move was intended to minimize visibility while still maintaining its presence in the competition.
Riccitello’s recognition as Best Young Rider provides a milestone for the Israeli team, which has worked for several years to establish itself on the global cycling stage.
His fifth-place finish overall places him among the elite performers of the tour and highlights the team’s competitiveness at the sport’s highest levels.
The race concludes Sunday in Madrid, where Spanish police are preparing for further protests as the riders complete the final stage.
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