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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

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

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, 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.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.