🔗 Share this article Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts. He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input. Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as 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 reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.