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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized 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 both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount 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 after more than a decade.