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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

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 was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of 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 during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.