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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.