Sylvan Adams Champions Israel’s Sporting Hopes

Sylvan Adams, the Israeli-Canadian philanthropist, is a man on a mission. For him, the road through France isn’t just about cycling; it’s about showcasing Israel to the world. In a roadside Zoom conversation with The Jerusalem Post from Dijon, France, Adams shared his thoughts and experiences on the ongoing Tour de France and the upcoming Olympics.

Known for his generous donations and organizing major sports and cultural events in Israel, Adams is fully immersed in the vibrant ambiance of the Tour de France as the owner of the Israel Premier Tech team, now competing in its fifth Tour de France.

“Everything is wonderful,” beamed Sylvan, adjusting his headset amidst the Dijon plains. “It’s a traveling circus every day,” he chuckled, describing his routine of cycling ahead of the race and catching up at various points along the route.

“The organization of the Tour de France is immense,” noted Adams, highlighting the logistical marvel supporting the world’s third most-watched sporting event. As the sole team representing Israel, Sylvan’s squad attracts considerable attention. “We’ve seen Israeli flags along the route,” he shared, reflecting on the warmth of the fans. “Sport diplomacy is exceptionally good,” he added, emphasizing how his team’s presence in the UAE post-Abraham Accords paved the way for broader acceptance and political dialogue.

One of the highlights Adams has experienced in France is the overwhelming support from pro-Israel fans. “There’s a lot of interaction,” he shared. “They cheer us on as we ride the streets. It’s quite exceptional.” He sees the fans as a crucial part of the race: “Their energy and enthusiasm are contagious.”

Adams believes sports to be a unifier and highlights the importance of utilizing sports to strengthen positive relations and improve Israel’s image globally. “The best way to answer the haters is through our performance and presence.”

He recalled the Giro d’Italia in 2018, which took place in Israel, remarkably boosting tourism and putting hundreds of millions of eyes on Israel through television coverage.

Looking forward to the upcoming Paris Olympics, Adams expressed high expectations and confidence in Israeli athletes. He has long been involved personally with many of Israel’s athletes heading to Paris, with a particular affinity for the cyclists. He mentioned track cyclist Misha Yakovlev as a strong medal contender. “I’m hopeful Israel will take home its first-ever Olympic medal in cycling,” he said.

Adams will be closely following the Olympics from within Paris, feeling very passionate about the competitions. “I’m deeply embedded into Israeli sports.” He feels a strong sense of nationalistic pride and the importance of representing Israel on an international stage. “Sports bring people together and foster nationalism,” he said. “We’re all proud of our athletes, and the more we win, the better we feel. We need a shot in the arm, especially after the tragedies we’ve faced this year.”

Adams remains dedicated to his role as an ambassador and advocate for Israel in sports. “I bleed blue and white,” he proudly declared.

As the Tour de France continues and the Olympics approach, Adams’s unwavering support, dedication, and passion for Israeli athletes shine through. His commitment to Israeli sports extends beyond cycling; he plans to support athletes across various disciplines in Paris. “My brand is Israel,” he declared.

For Adams, this mission is deeply personal, marked by his profound pride in Israeli achievements and the resilience of its people. His journey through cycling isn’t just about racing; it’s about rewriting the narrative of Israel through sports, one race at a time. His efforts promote cycling and serve as a testament to the power of sports in diplomacy and nation branding.

As Adams looks forward to Paris and the Olympics, his optimism and dedication embody the spirit of unity and hope that sports can foster.

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