Vuelta a España calls on fans to protect 'open-air stadium' and prevent wildfires

Fans at the Vuelta a España have been asked to "take every possible precaution" to protect and preserve the environment, in light of devastating wildfires in recent months.

The race heads into the Pyrenees on Monday, with stage three finishing in Font-Romeu, before it continues into Andorra and Spain. In a press release on Monday morning, the race's organisers, Unipublic, called on those watching the race to act to prevent further incidents by not creating sparks or throwing cigarette butts.

Last month, 300,000 people were evacuated in France and Spain as wildfires spread, with record-breaking temperatures causing blazes in especially dry areas. Scientists have said that the ongoing climate crisis is creating situations which have fuelled fires. At the Tour de France, fans were prevented from going to stage three in the Pyrenees due to ongoing wildfires, while stage 21 was shortened due to policing resources being redirected to tackle other conflagrations. Fans were also stopped from watching part of stage seven of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift due to fire risks.

The Vuelta's statement reads: "La Vuelta 26 travels through Monaco, France, Andorra and Spain, crossing some of the most spectacular landscapes and natural areas in our territory. Along the route, the race will also visit places that, unfortunately, have been affected by wildfires in recent years, reminding us of the importance of protecting and preserving an environment that is part of the very essence of La Vuelta and which serves as our great open-air stadium.

"For this reason, La Vuelta is calling on all fans following the race from the roadside to take every possible precaution and help prevent fires throughout the 21 stages.

"Small gestures are essential to protecting our surroundings: do not throw cigarette butts or matches on the ground, do not light fires, avoid any activity that could generate sparks, and always collect your waste before leaving the area. In addition, it is essential to respect at all times the instructions and restrictions established by the local authorities.

"Let’s enjoy La Vuelta responsibly. Taking care of our surroundings means protecting the open-air stadium that makes our sport possible."