🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief' Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that his choice was carefully considered 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 personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned. Official Stance and Ongoing Case Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue 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 acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad. Substantial Demand and Rebranding News "I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.