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Factor Issues Ultimatum to Israel Premier‑Tech as Premier Tech Urges Name Change

The bike supplier set a mid‑October cutoff tied to UCI paperwork, pressing the team to choose between a full rebrand or finding new equipment.

Overview

  • Factor Bikes founder Rob Gitelis warned the team he will end support unless it removes the country name and changes its flag registration.
  • Gitelis described the demand as a complete rebranding that could include shifting rider contracts to another country to protect the company's brand.
  • Premier Tech, the title sponsor, has called for dropping the word “Israel” and developing a new identity, according to a statement reported by Radio‑Canada.
  • The team faces an effective decision point by October 15, the UCI registration deadline, and says branding plans for 2026 are being developed.
  • The pressure follows large pro‑Palestinian demonstrations at the Vuelta a España that led to curtailed stages and the temporary removal of “Israel” from team kit for safety.