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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, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered 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 issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.