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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.