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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.