The Israel-Premier Tech cycling team has removed its full name from riders’ jerseys for the remainder of the Vuelta a España, following disruptions by pro-Palestinian protesters. On Wednesday, during stage 11, protesters interrupted the finish in Bilbao, leading organizers to take race times from three kilometers before the line as police worked to control the crowd. The stage ended without an official winner.
Last week, during the team time trial in Figueres, the team was also stopped on the road by a group waving Palestinian flags.
In a statement on Saturday, the team explained that the decision was made to prioritize rider and peloton safety, given the nature of recent protests. Riders will now wear jerseys featuring the team’s monogram logo, which aligns with branding used on team vehicles and casual clothing. The team emphasized that its official name remains Israel-Premier Tech.
Before stage 11, the Professional Cyclists’ Association had called for improved security at the Vuelta, citing concerns over rider safety, with Israel-Premier Tech being a primary target. After Wednesday’s incident, the team reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the race and acknowledged the right to peaceful protest, as long as it does not endanger the riders.
This report will be updated following the conclusion of Saturday’s stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about IsraelPremier Tech removing their team name from jerseys at the Vuelta a España
General Factual Questions
Q What happened with IsraelPremier Tech at the Vuelta
A The team removed its IsraelPremier Tech name and logos from its riders jerseys during the race leaving only the riders names and national flags
Q Why did they remove their name from the jerseys
A The team stated it was a direct response to protests and security concerns for its riders and staff following the start of the Vuelta
Q Was this a decision by the race organizers or the team itself
A It was a proactive decision made by the IsraelPremier Tech team management not an order from the Vuelta organizers
Q Did they get special permission to change their jerseys midrace
A Yes the team worked with the Union Cycliste Internationale cyclings governing body to get approval for the temporary kit change to ensure it was within the rules
Context Background Questions
Q What kind of protests were happening
A There were proPalestinian demonstrations at the race start and along some stages protesting the teams presence due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza
Q Has anything like this happened in cycling before
A While teams have occasionally modified kits for political or sponsorship reasons a team removing its own identity midrace due to security concerns is highly unusual
Q Is the team sponsored by the Israeli government
A Yes a significant portion of the teams funding comes from the Israeli government and private Israeli companies as part of a startup nation branding initiative
Q Did the riders have a say in this decision
A The team stated the decision was made to protect the riders and staff implying it was a management decision for their safety Rider opinions have not been publicly disclosed
Implications Aftermath
Q Does this mean the team is changing its name permanently
A No this was described as a temporary measure for the Vuelta a España only The team will continue to compete as IsraelPremier Tech in other races
Q What was the reaction from other teams and riders
A
