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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added 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 recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.