French Police Tear Down ‘Free the Hostages’ Banner During Tour de France Finale in Paris
Israelis stunned as message of solidarity is swiftly removed during cycling event
TwitterA disturbing video from Paris on Sunday shows French police officers ripping down a banner that called for the release of Israeli hostages - written in French - during the final stage of the prestigious Tour de France.
According to a report by Israel Hayom, the incident took place on the Champs-Élysées, where thousands had gathered to watch the iconic cycling event’s closing ceremony. A group of Israeli spectators held up a sign reading “Libérez les otages” (“Free the hostages”), accompanied by Israeli flags.
Within moments, French police approached and forcibly removed the sign, as bystanders looked on. The Israelis did not resist and allowed the officers to act unimpeded.
The apparent rationale for the removal was the ban on “political signage” in the official event zone, though critics argue that labeling the hostage crisis as political is deeply problematic and offensive to the victims and their families.
Among those present was Ofer Calderon, a French-Israeli dual citizen and former hostage held by Hamas. Calderon had been invited by the Israeli group as a guest of honor and took part in a symbolic bike ride along the Champs-Élysées.
“I’m still in shock that I’m here riding at the Tour de France,” Calderon said. “Everything feels so big and overwhelming. I’m emotional - but also deeply conflicted. I can’t truly celebrate while our soldiers are dying and hostages are still in Gaza. It’s time to end this nightmare and bring them all home.”