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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand 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 described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand 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 reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite 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 sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.