Protests Planned Against Israeli Team at U-18 Women’s Water Polo Championship in Tenerife
Protesters in Puerto de la Cruz are demonstrating against Israel's participation in the U-18 Women's Water Polo World Championship, highlighting the ongoing tension between international sports and global politics.
The U-18 Women's Water Polo World Championship in Puerto de la Cruz is facing political controversy. The "Tenerife with Palestine" group has organized a protest for Saturday, August 22, at 12:00 p.m. near the Manolo Santaella stadium to oppose the Israeli team’s participation in the tournament.
This protest is part of a broader campaign supported by groups like the Solidarity Network against the Occupation of Palestine (RESCOP) and BDS Tenerife. These organizations are criticizing the Canary Islands government, local authorities, and the Royal Spanish Swimming Federation for hosting the event. They argue that Israel’s participation in international sports helps normalize its political image, which they believe is unacceptable given the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Protesters plan to voice their opposition by returning tickets or displaying Palestinian symbols during the matches. This tension surrounds a tournament featuring 20 national teams, which is set to conclude with the final this Sunday, August 23, at 7:30 p.m. at the Tenerife Aquatic Sports Center.
Despite the protests, the competition is moving forward. The Israeli team is competing in Group E alongside South Africa and Zimbabwe. Other groups include top teams such as Hungary, Greece, Italy, China, the United States, and the defending champion, Spain. Led by coach Carla Fargas, the Spanish team enters the tournament following their recent world title win in China, building on a strong record that includes two world championships (2018 and 2024) and a second-place finish in 2016. The situation highlights the increasing challenge of keeping international sports separate from complex global politics.