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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million 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 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 the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance 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 approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech 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.