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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

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 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.