Israel-Premier Tech to change its name and move away from current identity'

"The Israel-Premier Tech cycling team, whose participation in the Vuelta a Espana triggered a series of pro-Palestinian protests that resulted in the race's premature end last month, has announced it will change its name and move away from its current Israeli identity. The decision comes three weeks after World Tour cycling teams suggested they may boycott races against Israel-Premier Tech because of the team's refusal to withdraw from the Vuelta."

"Israel-Premier Tech announced on Monday that it would be rebranding the team, adding that Adams would be relinquishing his current duties. With steadfast commitment to our riders, staff, and valued partners, the decision has been made to rename and rebrand the team, moving away from its current Israeli identity, it said in a statement. In sport, progress often requires sacrifice, and this step is essential to securing the future of the team."

"Anger over Israel-Premier Tech's participation in the Vuelta intensified after the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, offered his backing to the team, which is owned by the billionaire entrepreneur Sylvan Adams. "Great job to Sylvan and Israel's cycling team for not giving in to hatred and intimidation," Netanyahu said. "You make Israel proud!" The disruptions throughout the three-week race affected multiple stages and led to the cancellation of planned stage finishes and the shortening of the race distance."

Pro-Palestinian protests targeting Israel-Premier Tech at the Vuelta a España caused major disruptions, canceled stage finishes, shortened race distances and the race's premature end. Isolated demonstrations also occurred at the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France. Pressure grew as other World Tour teams threatened boycotts and sponsors urged a name and image change after public political backing intensified controversy. The team announced a rebrand to remove its Israeli identity and said Sylvan Adams will step back from daily involvement and no longer speak on behalf of the team, framing the move as essential to securing the team's future.

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