Italy has blocked the Israel–Premier Tech cycling team from competing in the Giro dell’Emilia in Bologna. Organisers cited “security concerns” after massive pro-Palestinian protests shook the Vuelta a Espana. But cycling’s global body, the UCI, insists Israel has every right to compete. This raises a massive question about whether host nations can overrule governing bodies. Is Europe systematically trying to corner Israel in global sports? From football to tennis and now cycling, pressure on Israel is mounting. Rupha Ramani breaks down how politics is colliding with sport, why Italy’s move sets a dangerous precedent, and what this means for the future of international competitions.