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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

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

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.