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Throughout last month's Spanish cycling tour, the team experienced several disruptions as pro-Palestinian protesters organized protests regarding Israel's war in Gaza

Team representatives described the recent period as "a particularly challenging period" but recognized "the necessity for change"

"With steadfast dedication to our cyclists, staff, and valued partners, the choice has been made to rename and re-brand the team, moving departing from its current Israel-linked identity"

"In sport, advancement often demands compromise, and this measure is crucial to securing the future of the organization"

Team History and Structure

Israel-Premier Tech team, which features five UK cyclists including four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome, is Israeli-registered and controlled by Canadian-Israeli property tycoon Sylvan Adams

Initially established as Israel Cycling Academy in 2014, the organization has been sponsored by Canadian company Premier Tech since 2022

Recent Events and Demonstrations

Throughout the 21-day Spanish tour, numerous demonstrations and disruptions occurred, primarily focusing on the participation of the cycling team

Halfway through the competition, the team ceased using their complete name on their cycling uniforms

The final leg of the race around the Spanish capital was cancelled following Palestinian-supporting demonstrations that resulted in altercations with riders and obstructed the course in several places

Recent Changes

As part of the changes, team owner Sylvan Adams will withdraw from his daily responsibilities and will cease act on the team's representation

The 66-year-old entrepreneur has been strongly linked with the Israeli government and has formerly referred to himself as a "self-appointed representative to Israel"

Global Reaction

World professional cycling regulatory organization the UCI has stated it will continue to welcome Israeli competitors at its competitions despite demands for athletic sanctions

Following UN investigation conclusions that stated the nation has performed mass killing against Palestinians in Gaza - a allegation that the government denies - there have been increasing demands for the country to be suspended from international soccer tournaments

Context of Conflict

Israeli defense forces initiated a campaign in the Gaza Strip in reaction to the Hamas-organized assault on southern regions of the country on October 7th 2023, during which about 1,200 people were murdered and 251 additional people were taken hostage

According to data from the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, at least 67,139 people have been fatally injured in Israel's attacks in Gaza since then

Analysis: Corporate Image Considerations

This decision constitutes a significant acknowledgment by the squad and its owner Sylvan Adams that the presence of Brand Israel is creating discomfort in places such as elite athletics

The owner's involvement in Israel's political affairs is widely recognized, though not formally assigned

This squad began primarily thanks to the owner's passion for professional cycling, and conviction that the activity can bring societies more united in parts of the world away from its continental traditional base

Regardless of some Grand Tour stage wins, Israel-Premier Tech has found the competition level hard to maintain at times at the top tier, and is unable to afford to jeopardize financial backers such as Canadian agricultural chemical experts Premier Tech

Being a billionaire businessman, Adams understands that business image is paramount