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

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

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

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as 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 reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement 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 sum during their racing years.

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