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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated 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. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.