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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, 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. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand 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 reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.