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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. 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 the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.