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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

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

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.