Israel-Premier Tech has removed the name from the jerseys for security reasons

The Israel-Premier Tech cycling team has decided to remove its full name from its jerseys for the remainder of the Vuelta after pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted the race twice – notably during Wednesday's 11th stage in Bilbao and during last week's team time trial in Figueres.

The change to the jerseys was motivated by a desire to increase the safety of the riders and the entire peloton. The team switched to the “IPT” monogram logo, which it already uses on its vehicles and training equipment.

Organizers were forced to end Wednesday's stage early when hundreds of protesters gathered with Palestinian flags and police were unable to control the situation.
The Professional Cycling Federation subsequently called for increased security measures, particularly with regard to Team Israel-Premier Tech, which had become the main target of the protests.

The team emphasized in an official statement that it respects the right to protest as long as the safety of the riders is not compromised.

At the same time, it rejected withdrawing from the race or changing its name.

(reuters, sie)