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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding 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 throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.