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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.