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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated 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 the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared 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. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.