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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before 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 admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing 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 individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes 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 throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.