Ertzaintza is actively investigating two separate attempts to disrupt the Basque segment of Tur’s crossing on local roads, as authorities seek to identify those responsible for coordinated acts of interference. In a Sunday operation, law enforcement expanded the inquiry to 11 individuals who were seen attempting to chain themselves to a roadside barrier during this weekend’s events. The Basque police force confirmed that the investigation centers on actions during the weekend, including the use of tacks and other materials that caused punctures along the route. Gipuzkoa and Biscay are both involved in tracing the events and locating the people linked to these incidents.
According to the Basque Security Department, around 13:30 on Saturday — roughly one hour after the first stage of the Tour commenced — Ertzaintza teams in Bizkaia intercepted 11 individuals near Alto de Morga on the BI-2713 road. Reports indicate these individuals were part of a planned effort to disrupt the cycling race, as a banner carried by the group suggested an attempt to interrupt the competition. The force described the banner as part of the orchestrated protest, and the detainees were under investigation as part of the broader security operation surrounding the event.
The same weekend, a separate set of incidents affected a number of riders during the second stage between Vitoria and San Sebastián. Several cyclists experienced wheel punctures after encountering foreign objects on the course, including pins embedded in the Gipuzkoa section. Ertzaintza and other security units opened an inquiry to determine who planted the objects and to assess whether the damage was intentional or the result of isolated acts. The investigations are proceeding with close cooperation between regional police divisions and organizers of the Tour to ensure rider safety and the integrity of the race.
Officials emphasize that maintaining public safety and the smooth progression of the race remains a priority. Law enforcement agencies are reviewing camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with event organizers to establish a clear chronology of the disruptions. The authorities have stressed that any individual found to have interfered with the competition will face appropriate legal consequences, and they are urging the public to share any information that may aid the ongoing inquiries.
As the Tour continues through the Basque Country, regional authorities reiterate their commitment to safeguarding both participants and spectators. The investigations are being conducted with full respect for civil rights while applying strict measures to deter any attempt to harm athletes or impede sporting events. In the coming days, further updates are expected as the inquiry expands to verify the identities involved and to determine the scope of the planned actions.
This situation underscores the importance of coordinated security planning for major sporting events that traverse multiple municipalities. Local police, regional security services, and event organizers are collaborating to monitor routes, manage crowd safety, and respond rapidly to any disruptive activity. The case also highlights the role of community vigilance and the value of timely reporting in helping authorities identify and apprehend individuals responsible for interference.
Citations from the Basque Security Department indicate that investigators are compiling a detailed timeline of events, mapping the locations of all disturbances, and cross-referencing with race schedules to rule out misunderstandings or unrelated incidents. As both stages of the Tour proceed, the focus remains on preserving the integrity of the competition, ensuring rider safety, and delivering a secure experience for fans who line the routes across Biscay and Gipuzkoa.