Israeli Cyclist Nadav Reisberg Excluded From Vuelta a España Amid Team Strategy Shift

One year after anti-Israel protests disrupted the Vuelta a España, Israeli cyclist Nadav Reisberg will not participate in this year’s race, which runs from August 22 to September 13, starting in Monaco. Reisberg, who rode for Israel Premier Tech last season, was not selected for the final roster of his current team NSN for the Spanish Grand Tour. NSN denies that political pressure related to the 2025 incidents influenced their decision, citing professional reasons instead.

Reisberg, who won the green jersey at the prestigious Tour of Rouen, will instead compete in the Belgian Tour of Renvoi beginning Wednesday in Flanders. He will play a key role supporting teammate Biniam Girmay in the race across the Low Countries. Sam Bewley, NSN’s sports director, explained that the team sees Reisberg as a versatile rider ready to take on a more significant role, particularly in supporting their sprinters for important races and Belgian classics.

The team’s ownership recently transferred from Sylvan Adams to the Swiss-Spanish company NSN, which retained its Israeli riders with Reisberg as the lead. Reisberg expressed his initial desire to return to the Vuelta but accepted the team’s plan for his development in other races.

The 2025 Vuelta was marred by violent pro-Palestinian protests targeting Israel Premier Tech, forcing the removal of Israeli symbols from the team and leading to threats against staff and riders. Reisberg also reflected on the tragic death of development rider Finn Tarling, describing his shock and the emotional impact on the cycling community.

The Vuelta’s return this year without an Israeli rider marks a notable change from last season’s turmoil, with Reisberg focusing on new challenges in Belgium.