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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

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

"I terminated my contract 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 noted that the decision 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 both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.