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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, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized 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 personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.