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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

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

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.