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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told 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. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

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

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.