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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

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 September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive 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 work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

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

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.