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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing 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 experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue 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 comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront 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 a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.