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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.