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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable 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 has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain 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 announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.