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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear 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 would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.