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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.