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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated 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 both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.