🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event 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. The event experienced widespread 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 work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post. He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment. Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad. Substantial Demand and Rebranding News "I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years. Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.