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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," 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 these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.