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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing 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 a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.