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

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive 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 in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional 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 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.