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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

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

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

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

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.