🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment. Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad. 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 damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual." He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.