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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

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