The Israel-Premier Tech cycling team will compete under the IPT designation in the major Quebeque and Montreal awards, scheduled for this Friday and Sunday, respectively. The decision arises to prevent incidents similar to those registered during Vuelta, marked by pro-Palestine protests against the presence of formation.
The general director of the two classic Canadian of the World Tour, Joseph Limare, confirmed the change. “They asked us to take the word Israel in all that was possible,” he explained, referring to the request made by the team itself, funded by Israelo-Canadian millionaire Sylvan Adams.
According to the Canadian press, pro-Palestinian militants plan to express themselves on the sidelines of the Quebek Grand Prix, in the way similar to what was already found in Spain. To avoid risks, the organization of races and public authorities have ensured that reinforced safety measures will be adopted in order to protect cyclists and public.
During Vuelta, which ends on Sunday, several protests even required the shortening of stages, including the dean on Thursday, leading the organization to reinforce surveillance.