🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief' Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts. He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with 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 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 since he was unable to continue racing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts. It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.