After protests stole the show for much of the 2025 Vuelta a España, the woes continue for Israel–Premier Tech (IPT). In a dramatic turn of events, Factor Bikes CEO Rob Gitelis has given Israel–Premier Tech a clear ultimatum: change the team’s name and flag, or Factor walks away. The team is Factor’s only World Tour representation, and it’s now under threat, as controversy, protests, and branding concerns mount around the Israel-Premier Tech banner.
Gitelis framed it bluntly: “Without a name change, without a flag change, we won’t continue.” The question now is whether the team can overhaul its identity fast enough, or whether Factor will pull its support for 2026. The news comes right after Factor launches its all-new Aluto gravel race design.
What’s Fueling the Pressure
Factor’s pullback isn’t sudden. For nearly two years, the company struggled with the tension surrounding the team’s ownership, national flag, and the growing protests tied to IPT’s brand presence. The protests were impossible to ignore at this year’s Vuelta a España. Multiple stages were disrupted to the extent that other teams were calling for the IPT’s dismissal due to safety concerns. Factor says its concern isn’t about taking sides; the issue is how the controversy affects its brand, its staff, and its ability to grow.
In response, Israel–Premier Tech and owner Sylvan Adams reportedly are willing to work with Factor to rebrand in 2026. Possibly changing the team’s name and possibly the registered nationality. But as of now, nothing is finalized, and Factor claims it has no signed contract beyond this year.
What does it mean? If Factor follows through on its public ultimatum, the case will join a list of recent moments in cycling where sponsorship, politics, and branding collide. For the teams involved and their component partners, this isn’t just a matter of logo placement. It’s a reminder that in modern cycling, from protests in the stands to flag details on the jersey, every element can affect public perception and partnerships.
It also raises questions about how pro teams register nationality and identity with the UCI. Factor has noted that teams must register the nationality of both the team and its “paying agent” by October 15, so time is limited.
