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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed 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 sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.