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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

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 was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," 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 serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.