🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after 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 factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment. Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team. Substantial Demand and Team Changes "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers. In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.