🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts. He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input. Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad. Substantial Demand and Rebranding News "I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual." He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.