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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after 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, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

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