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

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized 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 both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.