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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.