🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza. "I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts. He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment. Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.