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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.