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

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.