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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "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 a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.