A major Spanish security contingent arrived in Monaco ahead of La Vuelta, bringing together members of Spain’s Guardia Civil and the Prince’s Carabiniers for an exchange of expertise before the Grand Départ…
The Spanish delegation includes 59 Guardia Civil motorcyclists, with a total of 85 personnel travelling to the Principality to support the organisation and security of the race. On Friday morning, they gathered on the Place du Palais with 11 motorcycle officers from the Prince’s Carabiniers and senior commanders from both forces, in the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II.
The meeting offered an opportunity for the two military units to share experience while finalising the considerable logistical operation surrounding the weekend. The Prince’s Carabiniers have also been helping to host their Spanish counterparts, providing support including motorcycle facilities and catering during their stay.
The Guardia Civil traditionally plays an important role in protecting and escorting riders throughout La Vuelta and will take responsibility for security around the peloton as the race progresses through Spain.
For Saturday’s opening individual time trial through Monaco, however, the operation had a distinctly Monegasque dimension. Members of the Prince’s Carabiniers rode alongside their Guardia Civil counterparts, forming a joint motorcycle escort as the 81st Vuelta got underway from the Place du Casino.
Image: Prince’s Palace