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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €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

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.