Javier Romo denies alleged assault during Vuelta a España

Movistar Team cyclist Javier Romo has testified as an investigated party in a judicial case regarding an alleged assault during the 2025 Vuelta a España. The incident occurred during the fifteenth stage of the race between Vegadeo and Monforte de Lemos, specifically in the municipality of O Corgo, Galicia.

The investigation stems from pro-Palestinian protests that disrupted the race. According to accusations, after a crash involving Romo—caused by the sudden appearance of a protester with a Palestinian flag—the cyclist allegedly kicked the individual and shouted insults.

During his testimony via videoconference from the courts in Albacete, Romo denied the allegations of assault and any subsequent confrontation with other protesters. He stated that he does not clearly remember the incident due to the state of disorientation caused by the fall. Romo subsequently abandoned the competition in the following stage due to injuries sustained during the episode.

While Romo is under investigation, eight other individuals have been detained and are being processed for potential crimes of injury and public disorder. The case remains in the instruction phase under the jurisdiction of the court in Lugo.