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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue 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 their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.