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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.