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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

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 said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.