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Israel Cycling Academy becomes Israel Start-Up Nation

WorldTour status official for three-Canadian squad

On Wednesday, the day after Israel Cycling Academy and Cofidis were officially named to the WorldTour, ICA changed its name to Israel Start-up Nation and released its 2020 kit in a press event in Tel Aviv. The name change comes with the team’s new partnership with Tel Aviv non-profit Start-Up Nation Central, which assists Israeli start-up companies.

Canadian co-owner Sylvan Adams said, “By partnering with Start-Up Nation Central, we are showcasing the Israeli tech eco-system on a global stage, sending a clear message that this is a country with so much to offer the world.”

The new Katusha jersey has more white and less sky blue than in 2019 and bears the name of several team sponsors, like Factor bikes and Vini Fantini, which has switched its sponsorship after Pro Continental outfit Nippo Vini Fantini Faizanè folded. Israel Start-Up Nation absorbed defunct Katusha, taking on seven of its 2019 riders for 2020.

After contesting two consecutive editions of the Giro d’Italia, the team will enjoy the full slate of WorldTour racing, including the Tour de France. Adams said, “The dream of competing in the Tour de France, almost unthinkable only five years ago when we launched the team, is now coming true.”

ISUN includes three Canadians–Guillaume Boivin, Alex Cataford and James Piccoli. Ben Perry, on the senior squad for three season, is with the Continental team Israel Start-Up Nation Development along with compatriots Carson Miles and Robin Plamondon.