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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.