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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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 they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.