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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

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. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.