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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.