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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 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 called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

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

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable 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 deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.