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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million 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 "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification 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 linked to the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.