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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement 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.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.