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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told 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 has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be 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 reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear 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 would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.