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

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

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

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

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. 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, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.