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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"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 – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.