'Asked us to get rid of the word Israel': Cycling team to abbreviate name after protests by pro-Palestine group

Cycling team Israel-Premier Tech will use the abbreviated name IPT for upcoming races in Canada this week to avoid potential protests, race organisers announced on Thursday in Quebec City. The decision comes amid ongoing pro-Palestinian demonstrations affecting cycling events.

The team requested the removal of "Israel" from their branding at the Quebec GP on Friday and Sunday's Montreal race, according to general manager Joseph Limare.

"They asked us to get rid of the word 'Israel' from what we could," Limare said.

Canadian media has reported expected protests at the upcoming races, following similar demonstrations that have impacted the Vuelta a Espana cycling tour, forcing route changes and shortened stages.

The situation stems from the ongoing conflict that began when Israel launched its Gaza offensive in October 2023, responding to Hamas's cross-border attack that killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians.

Israel's military response in Gaza has resulted in at least 64,600 Palestinian deaths, primarily civilians, according to Hamas-run Gaza health ministry figures that the United Nations has deemed reliable.
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