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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over 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 correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.