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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated 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 personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.