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

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed 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 issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.