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

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

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

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.