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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand 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 called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

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 extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board 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 the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.