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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board 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 departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.