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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," 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 major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.