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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.