🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows 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 overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment. Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad. Substantial Demand and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual." He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.