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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue 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 governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.