'Untenable' - Premier Tech ends sponsorship of Israel-Premier Tech team

In a statement on Friday, Premier Tech explained its withdrawal. "Although we took notice of the team’s decision to change its name for the 2026 season, the core reason for Premier Tech to sponsor the team has been overshadowed to a point where it has become untenable for us to continue as a sponsor."

The Canadian company's departure comes just weeks after Israel-Premier Tech announced that it would rebrand for the 2026 season, dropping its Israeli identity amid growing pressure. The team had previously stated this move was necessary "to secure the future of the project" and ensure continued support from partners and sponsors. 

As part of the rebranding announcement, it was confirmed that team owner Sylvan Adams would step back from daily operations and no longer represent the team publicly, focusing instead on his role as President of the World Jewish Congress, Israel. 

Israel-Premier Tech has faced mounting challenges in recent months, particularly during the Vuelta a España where the team was at the centre of protests linked to Israel's invasion of Gaza. Multiple stages were disrupted, with the final stage in Madrid ultimately cancelled due to safety concerns. 

The team later withdraw from a sequence of one-day races in Italy, including Il Lombardia, due to the likelihood of protests against their participation. The team recently applied for a WorldTour licence under the name 'Cycling Academy.'

Premier Tech, which has been involved with the team for four seasons, expressed gratitude to the riders and staff. "We want to thank the team - riders and staff - for the four unforgettable seasons by their side, and to acknowledge their incredible accomplishments and professionalism, both on and off the road."

The company also emphasised their thirty-year involvement in cycling and commitment to the sport. "Premier Tech's ambition in cycling has always been to build bridges across all levels of the sport, paving the way for athletes and staff to achieve their full potential. Supporting the growth of the sport, alongside the development of Québec and Canadian cyclists, is at the heart of this commitment - and will remain so in the future."