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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.