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Israeli Cycling Team Welcomed in United Arab Emirates

The latest sign of warming relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors, members of the Startup Nation cycling team are participating in a race from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Israel’s national cycling team, called “Israel Start-Up Nation” is competing for the first time in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cycling Tour, this week. The team received a “warm reception” in Dubai, the first stop of the track. The competition goes from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, a 148-kilometer ride through all seven UAE states, and will take seven days to complete. It is one of the largest sporting events in the Middle East. “Competing in the UAE in the team uniform is an inspiring moment,” said Israeli cyclist Omer Goldstein. “Until recently, it would have seemed like an unrealistic dream.” Goldstein said he was surprised by the warm reception the Israeli team received, noting that many locals asked to take selfies with team members, dressed in the Israeli flag colors of blue and white. “This is the victory of sports over politics,” he said. (VFI News/United With Israel)