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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly 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 deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as 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 these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.