🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input. Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.