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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.