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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.