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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue 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 acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.