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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

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

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.