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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a 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 regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk 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. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.