The Israel-Premier Tech team has lost a sponsor due to a crisis

• Premier Tech announced its withdrawal from the Israel-Premier Tech team.
• Protests against the team are provoked by the war in Gaza.
• Derick Gee stated that he is terminating his contract due to serious health issues.

Premier Tech, the main sponsor of the Israel-Premier Tech team, announced the cessation of funding for the team, regardless of the promise to change the name and distance itself from Israeli identity. In a statement released on November 7, 2025, Premier Tech indicated that the decision of the team to change its name for the 2026 season could not outweigh the primary reason for sponsorship, which has become "impossible" for the continuation of support.

The Israel-Premier Tech team found itself at the center of criticism during the Vuelta a España in September 2025, when mass protests against its presence led to the cancellation of the final stage of the race in Madrid. The protests were triggered by the war in Gaza, which began on July 7, 2023, resulting in over 68,800 deaths.

Canadian cyclist Derick Gee also announced the termination of his contract with the team, citing "serious health issues." The team owner, Sylvan Adams, who is closely associated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that he can no longer participate in a team that no longer carries the name "Israel." The team plans to continue its 2026 season and is awaiting the announcement of a new identity and sponsors in the coming weeks.

Tags: Middle East/Sport