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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged 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 as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.