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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to 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 with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated 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 major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

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

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

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

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.