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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.