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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement 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 leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.