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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

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

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.