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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite 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 sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.