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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.