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

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

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