🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief' Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," 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 major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment. Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team. Substantial Demand and Rebranding News "I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person." He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.