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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

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 experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement 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 carefully considered and came after 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 conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.