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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized 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 both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.