"After months of protests, sponsor reshuffling, and uncomfortable headlines, Factor Bikes - the team's equipment partner since 2020 - has reportedly told management it will not continue past the end of 2025. That vibes with the ultimatum they gave IPT this summer. And that single decision has set off a chain reaction that now involves a rebrand, political optics, and a rumored tug-of-war between bike suppliers."
"The company told IPT leadership that without a name change and a departure from overt national branding, the partnership had become "too controversial" for the long-term health of the brand. For Factor, this wasn't about right or wrong - it was about the mounting protests at races, the team's high-visibility political baggage, and the fallout from multiple events disrupted or canceled due to safety concerns surrounding IPT's presence."
Factor Bikes has informed Israel-Premier Tech that the partnership will not continue beyond 2025, citing brand risk tied to protests and political optics. The company demanded a name change and removal of overt national branding as conditions to stay. Premier Tech already departed as co-title sponsor, leaving the team facing a structural rebuild. Scott Bikes has been spotted supplying frames and equipment, fueling speculation of a supplier switch or short-term arrangements. Multiple races experienced disruptions and safety concerns related to protests, increasing pressure on sponsors and prompting negotiations over the team's equipment and identity.
Read at Bikerumor
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