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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.