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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.